[Andrea36]

I have battled with weight for a majority of my life. Being overweight through middle and high school was quite a challenge. It wasn't until last week that I decided to take the leap!

I was sitting in my doctor's office, racking my brain as to why I have such a hard time with weight. She took a look at my family history, ran several test, and successfully diagnosed me with polycystic ovarian syndrome. AHA! Finally! She's placed me on the Dash Diet to help get the prehypertension and cholesterol under control!

I'm so excited to start this life change! I know it will be a challenge, but I'm up for it! I'm so thankful for this support site!

[Violet73]

welcome andrea! There is a lot of support here for sure! I'm just curious....do you know what blood tests were done to diagnose you? One of my docs is thinking I have PCOS. Best of luck to you!

[kuhrisuh]

Hey & welcome!! Thank goodness you were able to get a diagnosis! Congrats on taking the step to get healthy.. you can do this!! Good luck & i hope to see you around!! :]

[ibcnuldu]

Welcome
I also have PCOS. While I have found it slightly harder to keep weight off, it's not impossible Make sure to research it!

[leeway]

Hi Andrea!
So glad you got some insight and help with your weight challenges - the support you need is here - we'll all be here to see you through!

Glad to have you join us! There are lots & lots of different groups and forums - I'm sure you'll find some that will keep you motivated, inspired and entertained! There's also info and first hand advice on different eating plans and exercise to help get through the ups and downs. Check out the PCOS forum, too.

There are bunches of people here with more to lose and some with less - the bottom line is that we all have to do it a day at a time. The good thing is that we'll have lots of company along the way.

I've only been here a few months myself, having NEVER been part of an online forum. What has been so eye-opening is how much it has helped me. Whenever I feel overwhelmed or defeated, I just log on and read some of the success stories, complete with their before & after photos - or read about others still dealing day to day with their challenges - and before I know it, the time has flown by and so have all the thoughts of cheating or giving up.

So welcome - you 've found the right place - join in by inspiring us and being inspired!

All the best - good luck with your goals - here's to a healthier and happier you,
Lee

[Dinky]

Welcome and the very best of luck to you. You will find all the support you need on here

[Andrea36]

Originally Posted by LeslieLou

welcome andrea! There is a lot of support here for sure! I'm just curious....do you know what blood tests were done to diagnose you? One of my docs is thinking I have PCOS. Best of luck to you!

Leslie, she did a ton of blood work!

Tested: phlebotomy charge
CMP
Lipid panel
FSH
HGB A1C
Prolactin
Testosterone
TSH, Thyroid Stim Hormo
CBC/Diff
Anti Nuclear AB Reflex

I did a ton of research before going to the doctor. Your local bookstore should have several books on PCOS. I found several that actually breakdown the different tests that are typically done for diagnosis! Very helpful because the medical terminology can sometimes be overwhelming!
Good luck!

Thanks for your well wishes!!

[Onederchic]

Welcome to 3FC and good luck with your goals.

Hugs
Michelle

[Violet73]

Thanks Andrea! I have had all of those tests except the testosterone. Will ask my doc about doing that one. Best of luck to you!