How I stay positive with PCOS - going from infertile to pregnant

Living with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) for the last four years has been nothing short of frustrating. It’s a condition that impacts every part of your life—your physical health, your mental well-being, and even your relationships. For me, PCOS has been a rollercoaster of emotions, health struggles, and unexpected surprises. One of the most challenging parts of this journey is the unpredictability. Having to take pregnancy tests nearly every month, even when I felt sure the result would be negative, was one of the least annoying tasks in a long list of things I had to do just to stay on top of my health.

In 2021, I heard the devastating words “you’re infertile” from three different doctors. That news wasn’t just hard to process; it placed a significant strain on my relationship at the time. The possibility of never becoming a parent was overwhelming. Then, fast forward to 2023, and my life was flipped upside down again. I experienced an ectopic pregnancy—an incredibly painful and scary experience. Suddenly, I was told I’m not only fertile but “incredibly fertile.” That might sound like good news, but it came with a heartbreaking caveat: because of my PCOS and rapid heart rate, I was told I might never be able to carry a healthy pregnancy to term.

It’s moments like these when staying positive feels impossible. The mental toll of PCOS can be as challenging as the physical symptoms.

The Physical Challenges of PCOS

PCOS is more than just irregular periods; it’s a condition that can affect every aspect of your body. I’ve gone as long as eight months without a period. If you’re familiar with the female reproductive system, you know that long stretches without a menstrual cycle can increase risks for cancer, ovarian cysts, and other health issues. Not to mention the frustrating side effects like weight gain, acne, and an overgrowth of hair in places you don’t want it.

My journey has involved a lot of trial and error. Hormone-balancing supplements and low-impact exercises like Pilates and heated workouts have been game-changers for me. But even with those tools, there are days when it feels like the symptoms will never go away. The weight fluctuations, the irregular periods, the constant cycle of hope and disappointment—it can feel like an endless battle.

How I Stay Positive

So, how do I stay positive? Let me be clear: it’s not always easy, and I don’t have all the answers. But I’ve found a few strategies that help me manage the mental and emotional toll of PCOS.

1. Celebrate Small Wins

   1. Starting my period—even if it’s only for two days—is a cause for celebration. It might seem like a small thing, but for someone with PCOS, it’s a big deal. Celebrating these small victories helps me stay motivated and reminds me that progress is possible, even if it’s slow.

2. Be Kind to My Body

   1. On the tough days, when my weight is fluctuating or my symptoms feel out of control, I remind myself that this is not my body’s normal state. I fuel my body with healthy food and keep up with my exercise routines, even when I don’t feel like it. More importantly, I practice kindness toward myself. PCOS is a lifelong journey, and healing takes time.

3. Lean on Support

   1. My journey with PCOS has taught me the value of community. Whether it’s talking to friends who understand, joining online support groups, or working with compassionate healthcare providers, having people in my corner makes all the difference.

4. Focus on What I Can Control

   1. There’s so much about PCOS that feels out of my control, but I try to focus on the things I can manage. Tracking my cycles, sticking to my hormone regimen, and staying consistent with exercise are small steps that make me feel empowered.

5. Shift My Perspective

   1. I’ve learned to view PCOS not as a punishment but as a part of my story. It’s made me more resilient, more in tune with my body, and more grateful for the good days.

The Road Ahead

My journey with PCOS isn’t over—it’s a lifelong condition, after all. But I’ve learned to take it one day at a time. Whether it’s navigating the heartbreak of infertility or celebrating the unexpected surprises, I’m determined to keep going.

If you’re struggling with PCOS, know that you’re not alone. It’s okay to feel frustrated and discouraged, but don’t forget to celebrate the small wins, be kind to yourself, and remember that progress takes time.

Together, we can learn to navigate this journey with resilience, hope, and positivity.