I have mentioned in my last post that my OB-gyne put me on contraceptive pills to correct hormonal imbalance because of PCOS.

I am a member of a local forum for women trying to concieve, most of us are having PCOS which depriving us for having a baby.

I met a lot of women there and we became friends as well.
One of my friend in that local forum is having the same case as mine. She has pcos, her Ob-gyne put her in basic treatment as my Ob-gyne did to me. Her Ob-gyne put her in contraceptive pills to no avail. Thats why im hesitant to take it.

She stopped taking pills and replace it with vitex, after alteast six months of taking it religiously, early this month she announced pregnancy.

I was so inspired by her story and journey. Thats why i decided to take Vitex and decline the contraceptive pills.

here it is: 

 VITEX AGNUS CASTUS (chasteberry fruit)

Increasing Fertility with Vitex Agnus CastusHerbs for helping you become pregnant...

Chasteberry or vitex (vitex agnus-castus) is a fertility-promoting herb with a long, safe history of human use. As far back as ancient Greece, vitex agnus castus was recognized for its herbal-medicinal properties and was utilized for a number of health complaints. The Germans call vitex "Monk's Pepper" and for centuries women in Europe have used vitex to increase their odds of conceiving a baby, as well as to treat symptoms associated with hormonal imbalance, skin condition, or PMS.

More recently, science has validated the fertility-enhancing properties of this dynamic herb. Vitex has been shown in several clinical studies to help stimulate and stabilize the reproductive hormones involved in ovulation, cycle balance, and menstrual regularity. These studies also document a statistically-significant increase in fertility among women using vitex, with more pregnancies than in control groups using a placebo.

To understand how vitex works, let's first look at female fertility. In order for conception to take place, a woman must have a regular menstrual cycle and ovulate (release an egg from an ovary). Hormonal balance is key to regular ovulation - particularly the ebb and flow of the reproductive hormones estrogen and progesterone, which both prepare the body for ovulation (estrogen) and ensure that a pregnancy, once achieved, is maintained (progesterone). Regularity of both menstrual cycle and ovulatory function, dictated by the complex play of these hormones, are key factors in successfully becoming pregnant. Vitex increases fertility by helping regulate hormonal and menstrual balance. Vitex is a key ingredient in fertility supplement products like FertilAid for Women.

How Does Vitex Promote Cycle Balance?

Vitex or chasteberry is not a hormone; however, vitex works by acting on the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, which in turn secrete hormones or send signals to other parts of the body to trigger the production of reproductive hormones. Vitex has been shown to help increase the level of luteinizing hormone (or LH) while gently suppressing the secretion of FSH (follicle stimulating hormone). In effect, vitex stimulates the hormones involved in ovulation and assists in restoring overall hormonal balance. More specifically, vitex is effective in regulating pituitary gland function and in normalizing the balance of progesterone to estrogen levels. Vitex is particularly supportive in maintaining progesterone levels during the "luteal phase", or second half, of a woman's cycle.

A large percentage of menstrual problems and infertility issues are related to insufficient progesterone production during the luteal phase, which can result in a shortened luteal phase and may possibly contribute to PCOS. With regard to the former, a "short" luteal phase is often referred to as corpus luteum insufficiency or LPD (luteal phase defect). Luteal phase defect is characterized by low progesterone levels during the second half of your cycle. With regard to PCOS, hormonal imbalance (namely insufficient levels of progesterone) may also contribute to the formation of cysts on your ovaries, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. As vitex agnus castus has been shown to support progesterone production, vitex may be suggested as a treatment for menstrual cycle imbalances, luteal phase defect, and possibly PCOS (as normalized progesterone levels and cycle regularity may suppress the development of ovarian cysts associated with estrogen dominance).

Clinical studies now support the fertility-enhancing claims associated with vitex agnus castus - as well as its facility in treating common fertility disorders. In one commonly-cited study, sixty-seven women with fertility or ovulatory disorders were given a vitex agnus castus preparation, which resulted in a marked improvement of progesterone levels during the luteal phase, earlier ovulation, and thirty-eight achieved pregnancies (Bergmann, 2000).

In another study (Milewicz, 1993), vitex agnus castus was administered to hyperprolactinaemia female patients. The use of vitex resulted in reduced prolactin levels, as well as the normalization of luteal phase progesterone levels for women with luteal phase defect. Shortened luteal phases were therefore normalized (lengthened).

An earlier German study by Amann (1982) reveals that vitex exerts a favorable, positive effect on women with amenorrhea (the absence of menstrual cycle or period), further establishing the efficacy of vitex in restoring hormonal balance and cycle regularity. In another clinical trial conducted at Stanford, women with fertility disorders benefited from using a vitex-containing supplement, with more pregnancies in the vitex group than in placebo groups. Each of these studies demonstrates the fertility-enhancing properties of this unique herb.

Vitex is also recognized as a safe herb. It has no known side-effects, and chasteberry can be taken for up to 18 months continuously. When pregnancy is achieved, discontinue use of vitex-containing supplements, as well as any other herbal-nutritional supplements not specifically approved by your doctor. The benefits of vitex will increase over time, and maximum benefits are typically achieved after a few months of use. It is suggested to not take vitex or fertility supplements while you are using prescription fertility drugs.

A fertility supplement like FertilAid contains vitex agnus castus, as well as other key ingredients and complete preconceptional vitamin support. FertilAid for Women

 *Use at your own risk.*

till my next post.

ciao,

khassy :)

I was first diagnosed pcos last febuary 1, 2013.
after almost 1 year I still have this PCOS.

today at cycle day 27, I decided to meet a new ob-gyne.
I decided to change my previous ob-gyne because she doesn't have an ultrasound machine which is inconvenient for me.

Good thing is my new found Ob-gyne is a sonologist too.

here is my ultrasound report:

I still have to wait atleast 6 months to continue our journey. But for the meantime, my Ob-Gyne put me on contraceptive pills to correct hormonal imbalance. 


till my next post.

ciao,
khassy :)

Its been a while since my last post. Happy new year to all of us women who are trying to concieve.

Nah, nothing special on this post since im still waiting for our time.

I just wanted to be POSITIVE (so that my pregnancy test would appear positive too. haha) and spread the GOOD VIBES this 2014.

Let me give you an update on my cycle, today is my CD21.
before I open my blogspot account, I took my shower first and checked my cervical mucus because I thought that I'm ovulating at my CD24.

upon checking I saw a very little eggwhite like CM mix in creamy CM. So I am hoping that ovulation is now approaching.

last month I did some observation trying to predict my ovulation, I used THIS to track my menstruation, how long my cycle is, when is my next ovulation and when is my next cycle.

but ofcourse I need an accurate prediction of my BIG O that is not required to bring out some money, since I definitely know that i wouldn't get pregnant in this cycle. That is why I choose the CM method because it was the cheapest way. 

let me give you an idea about this CM method.

Observing your cervical mucus can be more useful than you may think. If you want to aid or avoid conception, cervical mucus observations are said to be around 98.5% accurate as to the fertile and infertile times in your monthly cycle.

The word ‘mucus’ might make you cringe, but knowing the different states of your mucus and what it means can be a strong indicator for ovulation, infertile times and fertile times.

Firstly, it’s important to note that there are some situations in which your mucus may be effected by external factors, including:

• Stress
• Medications or drugs (inc. Clomid)
• If you may be pre-menopausal
• Illness
• Dieting, weight change or fasting
• Travel

How Do You Observe Cervical Mucus?

There are three ways you can do this, depending on what you are most comfortable with.

• Toilet Paper – By observing mucus found after wiping
• Externally – With your fingers, feeling for mucus around the opening of your vagina
• Internally – Checking mucus from the cervix by inserting two fingers (index and third finger) into your vagina and gently sweeping the cervix

Once you have some mucus on your fingers, between your thumb and index finger, press them together and stretch the mucus – take note of what the mucus does. Does it stretch? Does it stay in shape and is tacky? Is it slippery? Is it clear, yellow or cloudy?

Types Of Cervical Mucus

Just as every woman’s cycle is different, so too is her mucus pattern. This may be due to varying cycle lengths and stages or other factors effecting it’s production as above mentioned. Below is a fairly common cycle of mucus production, starting with the end of your period.

Infertile Cervical Mucus

After your period, you may find that you have a few days with no mucus (dry). Any mucus that is seen at this time is infertile. If you do find mucus, it will likely be sticky and may come out as a blob.

Words women use to describe their infertile mucus at this time include:

• Thick
• Dense
• Sticky
• Flaky
• Tacky

Infertile mucus feels more dry to touch than fertile mucus. It may be yellow, white or opaque. Upon observation by touch between your thumb and index finger, you will find that it does not stretch or move – it is quite thick.

Possibly Infertile or Slightly Fertile Cervical Mucus

Following infertile mucus, you may then experience possibly infertile or slightly fertile mucus. Mucus in this state responds to increasing levels of oestrogen and is usually sticky and may feel damp. There is only a slight chance of conception – sperm will find this form of mucus particularly hard to swim through.

Words women use to describe their infertile mucus at this time include:

• Creamy
• Pasty
• Thick
• Cloudy
• Sticky
• Flaky
• Tacky

Possibly Infertile or Slightly Fertile mucus still feels more dry to touch than fertile mucus. It may be yellow, white or opaque. Upon observation by touch between your thumb and index finger, you will find that it does not stretch or move much but it may be damper or in more quantity.

Fertile Cervical Mucus

Fertile mucus usually signals the impending arrival of ovulation and if you are hoping to avoid conception, you must avoid unprotected intercourse at this time. Your mucus may change to a more watery state and feel more slippery. You may find this mucus is more abundant than the previous forms of mucus.

Words women use to describe their fertile mucus include:

• Wet
• Slippery
• Watery
• Clear
• Thin
• Fluid

Fertile mucus feels wet and slippery compared to infertile mucus. It’s likely to be clear mucus or have a cloudy/white colour to it. Fertile mucus will even smell sweeter (and apparently taste sweeter) than less fertile mucus which may have a more vinegar scent, however the most important observation to make is the wetness/slippery observation.

Highly Fertile Cervical Mucus

This time is the most likely time to find what is commonly known as EWCM (egg-white cervical mucus) or spinn (short for spinnbarkeit which is german for spiderweb). EWCM is ‘stringy’ hence coming from the word spiderweb. It may appear as a glob, or in smaller amounts in more watery mucus. Not all women experience this form of mucus so don’t be alarmed if you don’t notice any EWCM. Some women swear by Evening Primrose Oil to increase their levels of EWCM, however see a naturopath and they can suggest an appropriate dosage for you. If you were to stretch EWCM between your thumb and index finger, you may notice it stretches, unlike the infertile mucus which keeps it’s shape. You can see why this form of mucus favours sperm – it has a consistency similar to sperm and creates an ideal environment for them to reach the egg.

Post Ovulation Cervical Mucus

Following ovulation, you may find that the mucus may quickly return to the thick, tacky mucus or you may have none at all, leading up to your period. Some women experience a glob of mucus prior to getting their period, which is infertile.

I am reminding you to please make sure that you clean your hands before inserting it into your vagina.

My cycle dash board is saying that my next ovulation is on 13th of this month but i am reminding you too that this is not accurate sometimes,  i just use it as an idea.


that's it for now folks.

ciao,
khassy :)

let me give you an update in my cycle, for the past few months I religiously checking my cervix, its postion, its firmness, and its opening. 

CERVICAL MUCUS

Important natural signs of fertility that are used in many different methods of NFP are the changes in the characteristics of cervical mucus and the resulting vulvar sensations.  Cervical mucus changes its characteristics during the menstrual cycle and can provide the woman observer information about the beginning, peak, and end of the fertile phase.  

The mucus cycle and the fertile window:

Cervical mucus changes are a result of the developing egg and follicle in the ovary.  When a follicle (with the egg inside) starts to grow early in the menstrual cycle, it begins to produce estrogen.  Estrogen stimulates the cervix to produce mucus.  Beginning cervical mucus is thick, sticky, and holds its shape.  The opening of the cervix at this time also begins to soften and widen.  As the follicle grows and ripens more estrogen is produced, and the cervical mucus changes to a cloudy, thinner, and a slightly stretchy type mucus.  Fertility is high at this time.  Right before ovulation, the follicle is at its largest and produces the most estrogen, cervical mucus at this time is very clear, stretchy, watery, and slippery (like egg white).  The cervix is also very soft, and the opening widens.  Cervical mucus pours out from the cervical opening.  The woman is at the peak of her fertility at this time. 

After ovulation, when the egg is released from the follicle, the follicle changes into a structure called the corpus luteum.  The corpus luteum produces the female hormone progesterone.  Progesterone heats up the woman’s body about 0.4 to 0.8 degrees, causes the cervical mucus to dry up and the cervix to close and tighten.  The cervical mucus again becomes very thick, cloudy, and forms a plug at the opening of the cervix.  When this happens fertility is again at a low level.

A woman who observes her mucus on a daily basis will be able to observe these changes and know that the beginning of her fertility occurs when mucus is first felt or seen.  Her fertility is high when the mucus becomes slightly stretchy and thinner.  The peak of her fertility occurs when the mucus is very clear, stretchy, and slippery.  The end of her fertility begins three full days after the last day she observes peak type mucus.  She will only know the Peak day of cervical mucus retrospectively. 

after 2 cycle of being active in trying to conceive, I closely monitor my  cervical mucus in my entire cycle. However, I read in some article that clomid can affect the consistency of your mucus.

I remember there are some cycles before that I notice having an eggwhite like cervical mucus, the first one is during my 18th year, the second one is year 2011 maybe. That time I didn't know about this cervical mucus, and everytime I saw that kind of consistency I became worried that I think I am infected. (i am not sexually active that time though.)

today is my cycle day 25, this afternoon after I took a bath, I checked my cervical mucus and I found an eggwhite like cervical mucus mix with cloudy mucus, I was surprised because I am looking for it every cycle and this is rare to me, since I came to know about cervical mucus, this is the first time I saw that consistency. Awhile ago, I took my late night warm shower, I checked my cervical mucus and i found exactly like an eggwhite cervical mucus, it was clear, stretchy, hard to break. I'd like to take some photo of it and post it here but I came to realize that some women are not comfortable with it and  I am not comfortable in showing my own cervical mucus as well, so i changed my mind.

but i'd like to show you some image of an eggwhite like cervical mucus.

I got this image in google.

mine is more abundant than the image above. For more information you may want to read this article about cervix and cervical mucus changes in one's cycle. This is a MUST READ.

BEAUTIFUL CERVIX PROJECT

that's all for now ladies.

till my next post.

ciao,

khassy :)

Basal body temperature

Your basal body temperature (BBT) is your lowest body temperature in a 24-hour period. The best time to take it is when you first wake up in the morning. Before you even get out of bed to brush your teeth or start your day, pop a basal thermometer into your mouth. (This kind of thermometer shows the very tiny degree changes that a regular one can't.) It's important to try to wake up and take this reading at about the same time each morning.

Basal thermometers are available at most drugstores and usually come with a chart for recording your temperature each day so that you can start to see your body's patterns. We have a blank chart you can print out, along with step-by-step instructions on how to use it and a prefilled sample chart. You'll probably want a few copies of the blank chart because it will take at least a cycle or two to figure out your ovulation pattern.

Before ovulation, your BBT probably ranges from 97.2 to about 97.7 degrees Fahrenheit. But two or three days after you ovulate, hormonal changes cause a rise of 0.4 to 1.0 degree in your BBT, which lasts at least until your next period. (You may notice your temperature spiking on other days here and there, but unless it stays up, you probably haven't yet ovulated.) If you become pregnant, your temperature will stay elevated throughout your pregnancy.

Of course, since a BBT chart will only tell you that you've already ovulated, the first month of recording your temperature won't necessarily be very fruitful. But by charting your BBT for a few months, you'll be able to see whether there's a pattern to your cycle, which will enable you to predict ovulation the next time around – and the best days to have sex if you want to get pregnant.

Keep in mind that if you're sick or don't take your temperature immediately after waking up, any pattern that you find may be inaccurate.

In addition to helping you predict the day of ovulation, BBT charts can also shed some light on infertility issues. If certain phases of your cycle are short, you may have a hormonal imbalance, for example.

due to my eagerness of trying to pinpoint when my ovulation will happen, i tried BBT charting, but due to my hectic schedule this past few months, it became so difficult for me to wake up in that specific time to take my bbt.

here is the sample of my last BBT chart.

Im having a hard time knowing when my ovulation happened. but the cycle on this chart is unovulatory one.

Since husband is away, I have atleast 9 months to get my body ready for our upcoming TTC cycle/s again.

for now , i am taking metformin 3x/day, vitamin E 400iu/day and 2 tablespoon of apple cider vinegar (Bragg's) to combat pcos. I am planning to take Royal jelly as my supplement next month.

Apple cider Vinegar for pcos

I get many questions about how to use apple cider vinegar (ACV) to help your PCOS symptoms, so

 I thought I’d put together a few tips to help you get the most out of this great natural option for controlling your blood sugar and insulin levels:

First of all, why is apple cider vinegar helpful? When taken before meals it helps to reduce the rise in blood sugar that normally occurs after a meal, thereby reducing the amount of insulin needed. Less insulin means less testosterone, and therefore less acne, hair loss, excess hair, and cycle problems.

- Use unfiltered organic apple cider vinegar preferably. You can buy this from some supermarkets, health stores, or online. ‘Bragg’ and ‘Melrose’ are good brands.

- Always dilute the ACV. Start off with a small dose and gradually build up over a few days. It will take a while to get used to the taste.

- Take before or during meals. Taking on am empty stomach may cause digestive upsets in some people.

- Begin with a ¼ to ½ teaspoon with a little water to get an idea of the taste, and to check its effect on you.

-Aim to increase up to 2 to 4 teaspoons of ACV gradually, in a couple of tablespoons of water. The ratio of ACV to water needs to be at least 1:2, that is; 1 part ACV to 2 parts water. Eg: whatever amount of ACV you use, use double the amount of water or more, eg: 2 tspns ACV to 4 tspns water minimum.

-Severe cases of insulin resistance and obesity may respond well to larger doses, up to 2 tablespoons of ACV in a cup of water, but this amount can be hard to take. For these people, it is best to follow a more paleolithic diet to reduce insulin production.

- ACV capsules are available, but you would need to take large amounts to reach the general dose of 2 teaspoons. They may be useful to start with, to maintain, or to use with the liquid to increase to a higher dose without the taste.

- You will need less ACV if your meal is low in carbohydrates, or has a low glycemic load (GL).

-Remember: ACV should not be used as a treatment on its own. Use it in conjunction with a healthy low GL diet, exercise.

Royal Jelly for Infertility

this is just a sample photo of royal jelly.

While there are a number of different “superfoods” that have proven to be highly effective at helping with fertility, Royal Jelly is more than likely the reigning King…or Queen of the bunch. This nutrient dense substance is a secretion that comes from glands in young worker bees, and is used to not only create a queen bee for procreation, but is also fed to honey bee larvae to provide them with optimal health and growth.

Royal Jelly is rich in amino acids, lipids, sugars, vitamins, and most importantly, proteins. It contains high levels of vitamins D and E, and also has ample levels of iron and calcium. As all of these are essential to proper health and organ function, it is very easy to see how Royal Jelly can help with in assisting with fertility.

Royal Jelly

Royal Jelly is a substance that is secreted by nurse worker bees glands. The secretion is known as royal jelly and it is the main food source for the first 3 days of the larva. One larva that is to be the Queen Bee is fed only royal jelly its entire life. This exclusive feeding triggers the full development of her ovaries which is needed to lay the millions of eggs she will lay in her lifetime. The Queen matures in 5 days and weighs double that of a worker bee. A worker bee only lives to be 30-45 days old, but the Queen bee lives to be 5 to 6 years old. The queen also lays in one season around 250,000 eggs and in peak season she may lay up to 2000 eggs a day. This may have something to do with the extremely high nutritional content of the Royal Jelly which is this Queen’s exclusive diet.

Royal Jelly is rich in amino acids (29 to be exact), lipids, sugars, some vitamins, fatty acids and most importantly, proteins. It contains ample levels of iron and calcium. Royal Jelly also contains acetylcholine, which is needed to transmit nerve messages from cell to cell. Regular consumption of high-quality Royal Jelly has been shown to help balance hormones. This makes it beneficial to those individuals that suffer from a hormonal imbalance, as it helps to provide support to the endocrine system. It may also help with problems that are related to hormonal imbalance. A study done in Japan and published in 2007 shows that Royal Jelly has the propensity to mimic human estrogen, which may help those that suffer from low estrogen levels. Estrogen is essential for healthy bone formation and healthy gene expression, and is vital for a healthy menstrual cycle. This study also showed potential for increased size of uterine cells in the rats studied. While there may need to be more studies done to show full potential of Royal Jelly consumption on uterine health this is exciting potential for women with weak uterine muscles or thin uterine lining due to long-term hormonal birth control use.

Royal Jelly may be beneficial for the following:

• To increase libido
• Support egg and sperm health
• Diminish and reduce the signs of aging
• To reduce inflammation caused by illness or injury
• To naturally boost the body’s immune system

Making Informed Decisions When Choosing Bee Products

Be sure that you are choosing high quality products from a reputable source. This is very important not only to you, but to the health of the bees. As you may well know bees are rapidly declining and much of this is thought to be linked to environmental pollution. Choose to support organic, free-range, biodynamic farming and bee keeping practices when possible. Your choices make a difference!

Take the time to learn more about bees and how the sustain our food chain, without them we might perish. There are some great documentaries out there on Colony Collapse Disorder, the lives of bees and how they are on the brink of total collapse. Please keep in mind their vital role in our daily lives!

Our Natural Fertility Shop carries a premium choice of Royal Jelly which is pure Royal Jelly freeze dried to maintain quality. We also carry Alive Bee Power which contains a wonderful blend of these 3 bee products as well as some immune boosting herbs. This company has been certified organic since 1995.

Important Caution

It is extremely important to note that if you are allergic to bees or honey you should avoid all bee products. Side affects and reactions can include minor to severe skin irritations, difficulty breathing or even anaphylactic shock. If you begin to develop a reaction to any of these products discontinue use immediately. Do not feed to infants under 1 year of age. Do not use bee products during pregnancy if either side of your family or the father’s family has a history of bee allergy as this may affect the baby.

that's all for now folks. till my next post.

ciao,

khassy

lets get this started

in 9 months of being together, we regularly do the deed (hehe), that time we are not preventing nor trying, we're just following the flow. we have plans of having a kid/s but as of that moment we rarely talk about it for we are enjoying our honeymoon stage. then he flew to middle east to continue his job. we spent 2 years and 7 years away from each other (long enough to miss each other so much). even if we are thousand miles away from each other we made sure that nothing has changed, instead the love goes deeply and more deeply as the days, months and years goes by. it is indeed difficult for us to accept the fact that we have to endure the pain of not having each other near each other, then finally the long wait is about to end temporarily, the company granted his vacation leave for 2 months. 

december 2012, while we we're chatting via yahoo messenger (like we used to) our conversation goes like this:
(out of nowhere he told me)
him: honey its about time.
me: (confused) whattttt?
him: i think its about time for us to have our little one.
me: i was speechless and suddenly fell in a deep thinking.


that night i cant sleep for my mind is stuck with a big question, after 9 months of being together with no protection everytime we do the deed and the fact that he always released  every drop of it inside me, then why didn't i got pregnant after all?


hmmmm, as the night gets longer, my thinking got deeper too. "i think there is something wrong, i need to find out", 

the diagnosis

january 2013, i spent the whole month thinking and researching over the internet about pregnancy. all of a sudden i became too interested about it which made me decide to finally seek for a help.

february 1, 2013 i sat and talked to my ob-gyne. she first checked my cervix to know if there is something wrong inside. then she ordered me a blood test and urine test.

suggested to drink plenty of water and reduce salt intake due to some crystals found in my urine.

the series of test did not end there, now that there is no problem in my urine and blood test, she ordered for my "hysterosonosalpingogram" (HSSG) this is different from HSG.

"hysterosalpingosonography (HSSG) as a diagnostic tool for uterine cavity defects and tubal patency."

it is important for a woman trying to concieve to know if her fallopian tube is blocked, for it is a passageway of sperm cells to meet the egg cell.

before i go to the clinic for HSSG, my ob-gyne told me to take mefenamic acid 30minutes to 1 hour before the procedure so it can lessen the pain aside from mefenamic acid she also prescribe me an antibiotic (doxin) for couple of days. and its important to wear a pad because the saline will flow out as i stand up after the procedure.

here is my HSSG result:

after all of this test, my biggest question has an answer, i was diagnosed PCOS. so as soon as i got home, the first thing i did was sat in front of my computer and search over the internet the whole thing about this PCOS.

lets talk about it.

polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)

i have the result in my hands now, at first i dont take the result seriously for i dont know what is PCOS (never been heard) but honestly my mind is puzzled, and now the biggest question running in my head is "WHAT IS PCOS?" and the fact that i have pcos does not sync in automatically in my mind, so i ask the ob-gyne sonologist the top question that  i wanted to have an honest answer, "AM I CAPABLE OF CONCIEVING?" she smiled at me and say "dont worry, even if you have pcos you are still capable because you still have your both ovaries, the next time you come here, im sure we will conduct an ultrasound for you are already PREGNANT" (but it doesn't happen). i held her words as i walked out of her clinic.



 What causes PCOS? 
The cause of PCOS is unknown. But most experts think that several factors, including genetics, could play a role. Women with PCOS are more likely to have a mother or sister with PCOS.

A main underlying problem with PCOS is a hormonal imbalance. In women with PCOS, the ovaries make more androgens than normal. Androgens are male hormones that females also make. High levels of these hormones affect the development and release of eggs during ovulation.

Researchers also think insulin may be linked to PCOS. Insulin is a hormone that controls the change of sugar, starches, and other food into energy for the body to use or store. Many women with PCOS have too much insulin in their bodies because they have problems using it. Excess insulin appears to increase production of androgen. High androgen levels can lead to:

• Acne
• Excessive hair growth
• Weight gain
• Problems with ovulation

What are the symptoms of PCOS? The symptoms of PCOS can vary from woman to woman. Some of the symptoms of PCOS include:

• Infertility (not able to get pregnant) because of not ovulating. In fact, PCOS is the most common cause of female infertility.
• Infrequent, absent, and/or irregular menstrual periods
• Hirsutism (HER-suh-tiz-um) — increased hair growth on the face, chest, stomach, back, thumbs, or toes
• Cysts on the ovaries
• Acne, oily skin, or dandruff
• Weight gain or obesity, usually with extra weight around the waist
• Male-pattern baldness or thinning hair
• Patches of skin on the neck, arms, breasts, or thighs that are thick and dark brown or black
• Skin tags — excess flaps of skin in the armpits or neck area
• Pelvic pain
• Anxiety or depression
• Sleep apnea — when breathing stops for short periods of time while asleep

Why do women with PCOS have trouble with their menstrual cycle and fertility?

The ovaries, where a woman’s eggs are produced, have tiny fluid-filled sacs called follicles or cysts. As the egg grows, the follicle builds up fluid. When the egg matures, the follicle breaks open, the egg is released, and the egg travels through the fallopian tube to the uterus (womb) for fertilization. This is called ovulation.

In women with PCOS, the ovary doesn't make all of the hormones it needs for an egg to fully mature. The follicles may start to grow and build up fluid but ovulation does not occur. Instead, some follicles may remain as cysts. For these reasons, ovulation does not occur and the hormone progesterone is not made. Without progesterone, a woman's menstrual cycle is irregular or absent. Plus, the ovaries make male hormones, which also prevent ovulation.

the medication

february 5, 2013 second appointmet with my ob-gyne, we sat and talked about her plans to make my pregnancy possible.

she prescribed me metformin 500mg 3x/day, and duphaston for 12 days to force my menstruation.

Metformin (Glucophage) for polycystic ovary syndrome.


Metformin decreases the level of androgens produced by the ovaries and adrenal glands. It also helps the body use insulin and may reduce the risk of diabetes.
Metformin lowers blood sugar levels by:

• Decreasing the amount of sugar produced by the liver.
• Increasing the amount of sugar absorbed by muscle cells and decreasing the body's resistance to insulin (insulin resistance).

When blood sugar is lower, less insulin is needed, so the body makes less insulin. And when insulin is lower, the body produces a lower level of androgens.

Why It  Is Used 
Metformin is a diabetes medicine sometimes used for lowering insulin and blood sugar levels in women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This helps regulate menstrual cycles, start ovulation, and lower the risk of miscarriage in women with PCOS. Long-term use also lowers diabetes and heart disease risk related to high insulin levels.

dont forget the supplements that are essential when you are trying to concieve.

What is folic acid ?
Folic acid is a vitamin. Folic acid, also called folate or folacin, is found in some vitamin pills.

Why take folic acid before you get pregnant ?
Neural tube defects occur 25 to 29 days after a woman gets pregnant. At that time, many women are not even aware that they are pregnant.
Because these defects form so early, you should begin taking vitamins that contain folic acid before you get pregnant. Begin taking folic acid when you stop using birth control.
Women need more folic acid during pregnancy and breastfeeding than they do normally. So you should continue taking folic acid all the time that you are pregnant.
What is a neural tube defect ?
A neural tube defect happens when something interferes with the way the baby grows before he or she is born. The two most common conditions in which neural tube defects occur are spina bifida and anencephaly. These conditions may be prevented if women take enough folic acid before and while they are pregnant. Spina bifida happens when the spine does not develop normally. Anencephaly happens when the skull and the brain do not develop normally.

Vitamin E (alpha-tocopherol)
 it was given the name "tocopherol" from the Greek words "τόκος" [birth], and "φέρειν", [to bear or carry] meaning in sum "to carry a pregnancy," with the ending "-ol" signifying its status as a chemical alcohol.

Vitamin E for women
It is true that most of Vitamin E’s fertility research has been done on men, but that is not to say that there are no benefits for women as well! Vitamin E can increase cervical mucus in women, which is essential for helping sperm to stay alive for several days at a time. Vitamin E can also help to prevent egg defects and increase overall egg health in women which can lessen the chances of birth defects and miscarriage. Some studies also suggest that Vitamin E can lengthen the luteal phase of the cycle also.

Vitamin E for men
Vitamin E is commonly recommended for men to help them fight fertility issues. Low levels of Vitamin E are usually found in men with fertility problems. So, by using a Vitamin E supplement, men can increase their fertility. Vitamin E can help improve sperm mobility and quality, making it easier for a woman to get pregnant. Vitamin E has also been shown to reduce sperm defects in men, which can lead to less risk of birth defects or miscarriage. The numbers are actually really good, showing that men who take Vitamin E supplements for even just a few months, can see up to a 10% increase in fertility.


March 6, 2013 18days after my last pill of duphaston, aunt flow finally arrived. 
March 8, 2013 as per my ob-gyne's instruction i will take clomid 50mg/day starting on my cycle day 3 for 5 consecutive days.
March 12, 2013 my last pill of clomid (10 days onward is my expected ovulation day)

this is husband's prescription.  this supplement is a MUST.

March 17, 2013, hubby's arrival (finally, after 2 years and 7 months of waiting) yahoooo, its me and hubby's time (baby making time) hehe.

this cycle is not monitor because its summer time and my ob-gyne is out of town with her family.
she just advised me to do the baby dancing every other day.

March 24, 2013, first attempt to test, and it is very disapointing BIG FAT NEGATIVE!

April 4, 2013, second attempt, again its a big fat negative!

April 8, 2013, spotting (it can be implantation bleeding or impending menstruation)
this first cycle of clomid is an epic fail because,

April 9, 2013, aunt flow arrived, i felt discourage by this time, but i am ready to try again.

April 11, 2013, cycle day 3, second round of clomid at 50mg 2x/ day, this time she double my dose.
 but again this cycle is not monitor due to ob's vacation out of town, but she keep in touch, we talked over SMS. she advised me to baby dance every other day and monitor my cervical mucus. i searched over the internet about cervical mucus.
Cervical Mucus Method
The hormones that control your cycle also make the cervix produce mucus. It collects on the cervix and in the vagina. And it changes in quality and quantity just before and during ovulation. With personal instruction, many women can learn to recognize these changes. Instruction is usually given one-to-one. This method is also known as the ovulation method or theBillings method.

The Mucus Pattern

• During your period, your flow covers the mucus signs.
• After your period, there are usually a few days without mucus. These are called "dry days." These may be safe days if the cycle is long.
• When an egg starts to ripen, more mucus is produced. It appears at the opening of the vagina. It is generally yellow or white and cloudy. And it feels sticky or tacky.
• Usually, you will have the most mucus just before ovulation. It looks clear and feels slippery — like raw egg white. When it can be stretched between the fingers, it is called spinnbarkeit — German for stretchable. These are the "slippery days." It is the peak of your fertility.
• After about four slippery days, you may suddenly have less mucus. It will become cloudy and tacky again. And then you may have a few more dry days before your period starts. These are also safe days.

April 30,2013(cd 22) soft low open cervix, cervical mucus is watery but not like the raw egg white. sharp left abdomenal pain. OVULATION SUSPECTED.

May 4, 2013(cd26) because of my excitement i did the pregnancy test, and obviously its a BIG FAT NEGATIVE. (this is one of many craziness i made)


May 8, 2013 (cd30) this is one of my saddest day because due to husband's departure (naia terminal 1)
before we went to airport, i tried to test early that morning, but again its a BFN. no more baby dancing for now, and this is my last cycle to concieve for this year. but i did not lose hope, maybe i just tested too early.

May 13, 2013 (cd35) i tested again, i cant resist my pee-on-a-stick addiction, again, BFN!
May 14, 2013 (cd35) BFN!
May 16, 2013 (cd37) very very faint positive line appeared. end to be false positive.

false positive :'(

May 17, 2013 (cd38) brown blood tinged in my cervical mucus.
May 18,2013 (cd39) spotting (implantation bleeding or impending mentruation)
May 19, 2013 (cd40) aunt flow arrived.

as of this writting (november 11, 2013) our tyring to concieve plan is put into hold due to hubby's absence.
we will resume our trying to concieve journey next year 2014.

while i am waiting for husband to come home again, i am treating my pcos, it maybe has no cure but im trying to lessen the cyst, after all of this medication and trying, i realized that being pcos is really a kick in a butt.