I AM 1 IN 10. ☝🏻 A victim of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). 💔 I have been silent about my struggles because, honestly, it's a tough subject to bring up. There's also a part of me that feels ashamed or like somehow it makes me less of a woman. But in recognition of World PCOS Unity Day, I'm standing in front of my condition and not behind it. I want to show my cysters that there is support all around them and while our experiences may vary, we are all victims of a disorder without a cure. This condition has affected my body both inside and out with weight gain, insulin resistance, anxiety, depression, painful ovarian cysts, sleep apnea, sharp pelvic pains, and generally feeling tired all of the time. PCOS is one of the leading causes for infertility, and miscarriages are not uncommon if pregnancy does occur. Women with this disorder are also considered high risk for diabetes and cancer. I've spoken with women who are losing their hair or growing excessive body hair, and who are struggling with their weight, acne, mood swings, and depression. I've spoken with women who have been trying to get pregnant for 7 years with "supportive" medications and some that have given up completely. Our bodies are so out of balance, but nevertheless WE ARE FIGHTERS! We fight to manage our symptoms in any way possible in hopes that we can be "normal" women. I refuse to let this disorder determine my future. September is PCOS Month and Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. I have already seen my town lightning it up with teal to show support. But I stand among more than 5 MILLION cysters asking for YOUR support. Please consider making a donation to PCOS Challenge, Inc. A nonprofit organization dedicated to raising awareness, conducting health screenings and research, educating women and young girls, and supporting those who have been affected. The link will be in my bio for the duration of the month. Thank you 💕 #fightlikeagirl #WorldPCOSDay #PCOSChat #PCOSChallenge #CystersUnited #OvarianCancerAwarenessMonth #CystersUnite #LightItUpTeal #support #September #NeverGiveUp (at Glens Falls, New York) https://www.instagram.com/p/BnMgsxphZXo/?utm_source=ig_tumblr_share&igshid=1d3pq7m0u4yp3