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PCOS Blog

By Nicole Galan, RN, About.com Guide to PCOS

Injection Best Practices

Monday November 2, 2009

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!

PCOS Forums

Thursday October 22, 2009

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!

What are Your Best Injection Tips?

Monday October 12, 2009

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!

What is Your Experience with PCOS Related Acne?

Wednesday October 7, 2009

Most adults don't anticipate having acne, thinking it's an affliction affecting teens. However, for the thousands of women dealing with PCOS, acne is a very real problem. How do you deal with PCOS related acne? Share your experience and best tips here!

Infertility Experiences

Friday October 2, 2009
Going through infertility treatment can be frightening, especially when you don't know what to expect. Even though the medications and procedures are relatively safe, it's always scary having a treatment cycle for the first time. If you've gone through infertility treatment before, share your experience!

Have You Heard?

Monday September 21, 2009
About.com has added a new database of information about natural health supplements. You can get comprehensive information about hundreds of herbal medicines, vitamins and minerals. Find the safety profile, a list of side effects, how to take it and even what the latest research has found about using it. Check out NaturalMedicine.about.com to look up the herbal supplements you are taking today!

Skin Issues

Monday September 7, 2009

It doesn't seem fair. As if there isn't enough to think about with PCOS, you also have the added worry of how your skin is going to look. Acne is very common with PCOS, and yes, those pesky hormones are responsible yet again. The extra testosterone found in PCOS can increase the amount of oil your skin produces. Luckily, there are many different treatments and types of treatment that are available to help you manage. What works best for you? Give suggestions and get advice in your PCOS forums!

The PCOS-Weight Connection

Thursday August 27, 2009

I know, you've probably heard it a thousand times. Being overweight can lead to all sorts of health problems. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, or PCOS, is no exception. Doctors have long known that women with PCOS who are overweight can actually reduce their symptoms and the severity of the disease by losing weight.

There's no need for strict diets and exhausting exercise regimens either. Adding in moderate exercise (with your doctors approval of course) and reducing calories where you can will go a long way. Read more below about the PCOS-weight loss connection!

For more information:

PCOS and Weight Loss

Ahhh...

Tuesday August 18, 2009
Well, the time is upon us again. The long, hot days and warm nights. The days spent outside, just taking in the fresh air. While the warm weather is often welcome, it also gives us an excuse to stop exercising "because of the heat". Luckily, we don't have to stop exercising altogether, but there are many other activities that we can consider to get our daily fix of exercise. Swimming or water sports are a very refreshing way to beat the summer heat, and a great full body workout in many instances. Gardening is also a great way to keep your yard looking beautiful, eating the healthy fruits and vegetables of your labor and increasing your activity level. Take your dog for a run in the evening (when it's the most cool out) or move your yoga workout outdoors. Either way, it's a great time to get out of the gym, try something new and give your exercise routine a jolt!

Yikes!

Monday August 10, 2009

Do you remember when you got your first period? I was on vacation, and I guess a little cranky, because when my dad found out, he gave me a look and said "I guess that's why you were such a ---!" Just the thing for a young girl to hear! I was totally embarrassed at the time, but at least I can laugh about it now.

For most young women, that first period is a rite of passage, a monumental event that will never be forgotten. Here is your opportunity to share your story!

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