For as long as I can remember, my periods have always been regular—like clockwork. So when I started dealing with things like acne, fatigue, and blood sugar issues, I never thought it could be PCOS. My regular cycle seemed to rule that out in the eyes of most doctors.

In my late teens, I started noticing changes in my skin. What started as a few pimples turned into persistent acne on my face. I tried everything—different skincare routines, creams, and even lifestyle changes—but the acne never went away. I also started feeling exhausted, especially after meals. I’d get these horrible sugar crashes that made me feel irritable and drained. But even though my symptoms were getting worse, I was told over and over that I didn’t have PCOS. The doctors would say, “Your periods are regular. It can’t be PCOS.” It was hard not to feel dismissed.

I went from doctor to doctor, hoping someone would finally take me seriously. Some suggested I just use acne creams or said maybe I was stressed. Others told me to adjust my diet and exercise routine, but none of it worked. I began to wonder if maybe it was all in my head. Maybe I just wasn’t trying hard enough to feel better.

But then, I met a doctor who actually listened. She didn’t just look at my periods. She took the time to hear about everything else I was struggling with—my acne, blood sugar issues, and hormonal imbalances. She explained that PCOS can show up in many ways, not just through irregular periods. After running some tests, she told me I had PCOS. Finally, I had an answer.

It was a relief, but also a little surreal. How had it taken so long for someone to figure this out? I had spent years feeling like my symptoms didn’t matter. But now, I knew that everything—my acne, fatigue, and blood sugar swings—was connected to something bigger.

Now, at 29, I’m still learning to manage PCOS. One of my biggest struggles is controlling my blood sugar
because of the insulin resistance that comes with it. I’ve had to be careful about what I eat, especially when it comes to balancing my blood sugar. I also pay extra attention to my skin and make sure I’m taking care of it properly. Acne is still a challenge, but I’ve learned to approach it naturally, using herbs like spearmint tea and other vitamins to support my body from the inside out.

I don’t take any medication for PCOS. Instead, I’ve decided to go a more holistic route. I focus on my diet,
exercise regularly, and use natural supplements like inositol and magnesium to help balance my hormones and blood sugar. It’s not always easy, and some days are definitely harder than others, but I’m learning to trust my body and the process.

If you’re reading this and feel like something’s off but can’t get a clear answer, don’t give up. Keep searching. Keep asking questions. You deserve to be heard, and your symptoms matter. It may take time, but finding a doctor who listens and who’s willing to look at the bigger picture makes all the difference.

To those still searching for answers, remember: your health and your voice matter.