Overcoming PCOS Challenges in the Journey to Motherhood

Although nothing can prepare you for the joys of becoming a mother, no one can deny the challenges that come with the role. However, combine that with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome or (PCOS), and I'm sure you’ll be able to find yourself exactly where I am, in completely new territory. From fertility troubles to embracing a new holistic lifestyle, “momming with pcos” can be a narrative of both resilience and celebration. In this blog post, I get into the specifics of my journey, one I’m sure I share with many others. Offering  insights into fertility challenges, holistic health practices, and the crucial, but often underrated, role of a good support system.

The Silent Struggle: Fertility Challenges

After months of doctor visits and taking an impressive amount of pills, the doctor finally came out and uttered those heart wrenching words that started with -“ we need to talk“-. She took away any hope my husband and I had of ever having our own baby. 

Sharing this news with him was devastating. We had often talked about expanding our little family. His eyes, once filled with excitement and even anticipation about the topic were now completely mirrored with the pain and fear that I was feeling. Despite all the effort I put in - from meticulous tracking to embracing a healthier lifestyle- the sense of disappointment with my own body was staggering. It felt like my body had betrayed both my husband and me.

Then people around me, friends and family, started sharing their pregnancy announcements, and although I was genuinely happy for them, I would still  find myself thinking “ what about me?, why can’t I have that“. I tried to suppress my quiet grief, as I smiled and congratulated them, but that, as they say, was easier said than done.

Yet, here I am, a couple of years later, and I find myself making plans with my husband about what kind of parents we‘ll be to our little boy, our little miracle. Yes, we were very resilient about not giving up. We changed doctors, more than once, I did everything the doctors suggested might help, did all kinds of research. But, I don’t underestimate how truly lucky we were, with it ending with me getting pregnant, and having a healthy  -not so little- baby boy. I appreciate that this is far from being the norm in such cases, and to anyone going through this, I’d like to say; you are not alone, keep going if you can, but it’ll also be ok if you can’t.  

I'm trying to build a community for anyone dealing with the side effects of PCOS, so please feel free to write a comment about any fertility issues you’ve had, and about what helped, to start a conversation that might help others going through the same thing.

Holistic healing: Embracing a Balanced Approach

I wasn’t at all happy with the doctor's approach to dealing with my PCOS symptoms. For around two years, I was simply prescribed contraceptive pills to regulate my menstrual cycle, which didn’t really work and gave me some bad side-effects , and Metformin to help me ovulate, which also didn’t work. As for the constant bloating and stomach pains, I was regularly told I was healthy and didn’t need any help with anything. Needless to say, I went on to do my own research. I discovered the impact of lifestyle on PCOS management. Nurturing my body with a wholesome diet, regular exercise, and stress-reducing practices became a vital part of my daily routine. A few weeks in, and I felt like a new woman. Taking this approach wasn’t strictly about fertility for me; it was about getting back my body and eliminating as much discomfort as I possibly could without the help of any pills. I do believe that the combination of these simple lifestyle changes with the pills, injections and 3 rounds of IVF, did not only help with my getting pregnant, but with having a healthy pregnancy and baby as well.

Building a Support System : You’re Not Alone 

In my case it wasn’t so much building a support system, as it was being born in one. But I know that’s not always the case for everyone. So finding a supportive community can become your lifeline, as navigating PCOS and motherhood can be isolating. Connecting with other women or moms facing similar challenges can provide not only empathy but invaluable advice and shared experiences. Whether online or in person, the power of shared stories can bring a sense of ease, as you're reminded that you are not alone in any of this.

In my case, my support system consisted of my parents, sister and husband. Who kept reminding me that no matter what, I will be just fine.

Small wins: Celebrating Milestones

I am a strict believer in celebrating the little things in life, especially when in the face of such challenges. Celebrating every milestone should become everyone's ritual. From easing tummy discomfort to the first positive pregnancy test or the flutter of the first kicks, each step forward is a triumph. Trying to focus on the good stuff, no matter how small, can help you become more resilient and hopeful.

PCOS is a part of me, and a very big part of my story, but it doesn’t define me as a person or mother. So, don’t let it define you.

Until next time,

Dalia