My PCOS Journey
My PCOS journey began with symptoms at age 11 and a formal diagnosis at age 17. I experienced irregular periods, hirsutism (excessive hair growth), sugar and carb cravings, weight gain, insomnia, and mild acne. After missing my period for eight months, my gynecologist confirmed cysts on both ovaries, changing my entire outlook on puberty.
My PCOS journey: The willingness to heal naturally changed my life forever
After years of not fully understanding what PCOS was and using contraceptives, “the pill,” to mask my symptoms, my life changed dramatically when I decided to take charge of my health. It was literally "all about me"! I dove into my research and found various herbal remedies that helped manage my symptoms. My Cysters, I've worked hard over the past three years (since 2021) to regulate my hormones and manage my symptoms—including reducing 90% of the cysts on my ovaries—using herbal teas, supplements, meal-planning, and stress-relieving techniques.
My story: Here are two personal quotes I live by
Women with PCOS embody resilience; they transform their struggles into strength, defy the odds with grace, and rise every day to reclaim their bodies and their power.
Kendra Richards
With PCOS, every day is a chance to choose hope over fear. A positive mindset turns challenges into victories and empowers you to thrive, not just survive.
Kendra Richards
Today, I am an advocate for women with PCOS
There is hope that women can lead healthy lives despite PCOS. I urge every woman to visit their gynecologist if they suspect they have PCOS or any other reproductive condition. Getting the correct diagnosis is critical to effective treatment. While there may not be a cure for PCOS, there are natural ways to manage the symptoms and prevent long-term complications like diabetes or high blood pressure. Always remember, you are not alone. I understand how challenging it is to navigate these changes in your body. Your health is your strength!
My Collaborators
Dr. Ami D. Patel
Dr. Ami D. Patel, a board-certified pharmacotherapy specialist (BCPS) and licensed clinical pharmacist, focuses on internal medicine and preventative healthcare. With a passion for evidence-based education, she empowers individuals to take charge of their health. As the host of the Holistic Hormones Podcast and YouTube channel, Dr. Patel also offers consulting services through her company, Holistic Hormones Pharmacist, where she specializes in women’s hormone health, particularly PCOS.
Chimene Castor, Ph.D., EdD, RDN, LDN, CHES
Chimene Castor, Ph.D., EdD, RDN, LDN, CHES, is an Associate Professor in Nutritional Sciences at Howard University’s College of Nursing and Allied Health Sciences. She holds doctorates in philosophy and health education from Howard University and Columbia University, respectively. With 19 years of clinical dietitian experience, Dr. Castor has worked in hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and nursing homes and consulted for HCR Manor Care. Her global health work spans South Africa, Kenya, Haiti, and other countries. She co-authored publications on diabetes, heart disease, and obesity prevention and currently researches nutrition and diabetes in Caribbean women. Dr. Castor owns Complete Nutrition Therapy and Counseling, LLC, and Julio Rameaux Farm.
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