While it is easy to get caught up in doctor's visits,
hair removal treatments and the physical aspects of life with PCOS, women need to remember to take care of their mental health too. A recent study in Fertility and Sterility found that women with PCOS have a higher risk of depression then women without the disease. The increased health risks (diabetes, endometrial cancer, cardiac issues) in addition to embarrassing physical symptoms make it easy to become overwhelmed, lonely and depressed.

     So, take care of your emotional health as well. Make time to do something special just for you. Pick up that book you've been dying to read, or call a girlfriend to go out for lunch. Go shopping and buy something new. Get a manicure. Just find the time to do something just to treat yourself every day. Finding a support group or psychologist can be helpful as well, if you feel that you need some extra support.

For more information:

Find a PCOS Support Group

Depression Screening Quiz

Depression

<sub>Source:

Hollinrake, Elizabeth, et al. "Increased risk of depressive disorders in women with polycystic ovary syndrome." Fertility and Sterility 87. 6 (June 2007) : 1369 - 76.</sub>

Most people are nervous about giving themselves or a loved one an injection for the first time. That goes without saying. There are a few things you can do to make the process a little easier. First, make sure that you understand exactly how to mix and administer the medication. Clarify with either your doctor, or pharmacist, about whether the injection is given subcutaneously or intramuscularly. Read through the instructions a few times until you feel comfortable. It may help to leave yourself plenty of time, so you don't feel rushed. Second, ensure that you are using the correct size for both the syringe and needle. Using the incorrect size will make the process more difficult and may even prevent the medicine from being properly absorbed. Finally, keep an eye out for a few warning signs that you are doing the injection incorrectly or that complications may be developing. Notify your doctor promptly of anything unusual. And of course, remember that everyone gets nervous. Even doctors and nurses in the beginning of their careers. Take your time, follow the instructions and you will be fine. Good luck!

Are you familiar with our PCOS message boards? Now up and running, it's a great place to meet other women with PCOS, get support from somebody who understands what you're going through, and get your burning questions answered. So come on in and introduce yourself!

Truth be told, despite the years I've spent administering injections as a nurse, I'm still afraid of getting a shot myself. For many women, daily shots may be the only way that they can have a baby. From those of who have been there, what are your best tips for reducing the pain and anxiety of taking injections?

Share your best tips!