Verity - sharing the truth about PCOS

Living with PCOS is easier with when you have good support, both emotional and practical. Get your support network up and running and you’ll find that a problem shared really is a problem halved.

• Be honest with your family and friends: explain to them what PCOS involves and what you are dealing with personally, so that when you need a shoulder to cry on or extra encouragement, they will understand why and be there to give it to you, no questions asked
• Get in touch with other women with PCOS. Talking to people who understand exactly what you are going through and can give you invaluable advice on how to deal with it can be incredibly helpful and reassuring. Verity can help you here: it hosts an email-based support network on its website and runs regular support group meetings with expert speakers; Verity members also run informal local support groups, where you can make contact with other women with PCOS in your area
• Invest in yourself: many women with PCOS find complementary therapies invaluable for helping them to get on top of the symptoms and also to tackle their stress levels. Useful therapies include medical herbs, traditional Chinese medicine, acupuncture, reflexology, aromatherapy, homeopathy, ayurveda and nutritional therapy (please tell your GP if you are embarking upon a particular complementary therapy, as some may have interactions with conventional medication)
• Join a support group for help with specific symptoms, such as fertility problems or excess hair. Verity’s website has a list of useful links
• Being supported can give you the confidence to be upfront about PCOS, which can be very positive not only for how you deal with it but also for your relationships and ultimately for your self-esteem

Websites

• Verity Local Groups
  http://www.verity-pcos.org.uk/how_we_help/local_groups
• Verity Discussion Board
  http://www.verity-pcos.org.uk/how_we_help/discussion_board