Austin Woman’s PCOS Support Group Ignites Conversation About Hormonal Disorder

Austin, August 2024

An Austin woman’s initiative to create a supportive environment for women suffering from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) has resulted in a local support group currently boasting of more than 550 members. This initiative not only provides a platform for shared experiences but also helps raise awareness regarding this hormonal disorder.

Living With the Diagnosis

Stephanie Tollett had lived with irregular menstrual cycles from puberty until she was diagnosed with PCOS at the age of 19. Initial tests, including an ultrasound of her ovaries, revealed no abnormalities. However, subsequent bloodwork flagged unusually high insulin levels and a staggering triglyceride count. It was at this juncture that she was diagnosed with PCOS and started navigating a health journey filled with complexities, flare-ups, and infertility issues.

It was not until she reached her 30s and grappled with infertility that she recognized the severe health implications of the disorder. “I was in my 30s, and I had PCOS. And it wasn’t really until I was going through the infertility side of things that I realized just how big of a deal it was,” Tollett shared.

Understanding PCOS

PCOS is a hormonal health condition, often starting during adolescence, that leads to hormonal imbalances, irregular periods, and cysts on ovaries, according to the World Health Organization (WHO). As per WHO, the condition is believed to impact between 8% and 13% of women of reproductive age. However, a worrying 70% of PCOS sufferers go without a diagnosis due to the currently little-understood causes of this condition.

PCOS symptoms can range from heavy and irregular periods, infertility, acne, weight gain, especially around the belly, excessive hair growth, and male pattern baldness. The condition can also increase the risk of developing other health issues such as Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol, heart disease, and endometrial cancer. Furthermore, sufferers are also more prone to face mental health challenges such as anxiety, depression, and negative self-image.

Addressing the Issue

Out of frustration and determination to manage her condition better, Tollett created the Austin Area PCOS Support Group on Facebook about a decade ago. With over 550 members today, the group serves to provide community support, recommendations for PCOS-focused medical professionals, and tips for managing symptoms.

“It’s scary, but you are so worth getting checked out. You’re so worth knowing what’s going on so that you can take steps now,” she encouraged. She is also determined to use her platform to raise awareness around PCOS and motivate women to have informed discussions with their healthcare provider, especially in an era where symptoms are easily dismissed due to a lack of comprehensive understanding of the condition.