PCOS - success through lifestyle changes?

[magnoliasinbloom]

Hello! I was diagnosed with PCOS last week after 6 months off the pill, with one period in that time, lots of fun adult acne and both ovaries showing as polycystic on a scan. I was prescribed Metformin and told that even though I'm not overweight, I could try losing a kilo or two to see if that triggers regular ovulation.

I wasn't given any information about Metformin side effects and after researching them they sound pretty awful. I'd prefer for it to be a last resort and to try and see if lifestyle changes could work first. I have a healthy diet and exercise already but have read that high protein/low carb, avoiding dairy etc is good for PCOS.

If anyone could share any advice about what diets/exercise/supplements worked for them and how long it took you to see improvements, I'd be grateful!

I can only comment on Metformin after taking it for 10 years (not for PCOS) the modified release version is far better for side effects than the standard version, so if you did end up trying it and do get the explosive stomach go straight back to the GP and ask for the slow/modified release, far gentler on the stomach.

I’ve not tried it myself but look up inositol - apparently similar to metofrmin without the side effects. It’s just a supplement you can order online.

I have pcos and definitely notice my cycles are better if I’ve had a ‘healthy’ month.

Thanks for your suggestions!

@Chihuahuacat I have been taking Ovasitol (brand of inositol) for a couple of months (which I think triggered the period I have had) but I have a feeling it's not doing enough on it's own

@Beanybob that's a good tip! Definitely keen to avoid explosive stomach.

I listen to a podcast which is great - thepcosgirls - two Australian women who have been through it all and offer some great alternatives :)

@StressyLady thank you!