4| Lauren’s infertility, PCOS, absent periods, IUI, ovary drilling, tubal flushing, high testosterone, insulin issues, medical advocacy, yacht life, puppy therapy and giving yourself grace

Welcome to another infertility episode, where Chloe, Clare and our lovely guest Lauren, discuss a different side to infertility - one where Lauren would love her period to return!  Lauren sheds light on her struggles with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), which has resulted in years of absent periods (amenorrhoea).  Lauren has worked very closely with her fabulous GP to gain a stronger understanding of her own physical health and PCOS diagnosis, where they discovered she was also suffering with high testosterone, high cortisol, high cholesterol, adrenal fatigue and was classified as 'pre' diabetic due to insulin resistance issues. After 3 disappointingly failed IUI’s (intrauterine insemination's) and one laparoscopic surgery which uncovered stage 2 endometriosis, Lauren was commenced on the medication Ozepmic. After countless investigations and interventions, this medication has been the first treatment which has finally shifted Lauren’s PCOS pathology closer to a normal range. Our discussion also touches on medical advocacy, and self preservation of putting your own oxygen mask on first, in order to give yourself grace and space to breathe. Although Lauren is currently on a physical and mental break from her fertility procedures, Lauren remains hopeful that with a combination of current medications, lifestyle changes and support from her husband, and adorable puppy Maple, that she will FINALY have the return of her period and from that the chance to fall pregnant. This is Lauren's journey and is therefore unique to her; the topics, medications and medical interventions discussed in this podcast are her story and not in anyway to be taken as medical advice. We share these stories on our platform with hope to help others who are deep in the trenches of infertility, find solace, resonance and assist in them feeling less alone. We hope you enjoy listening, whether you have/are experiencing similar issues, know a friend or family member who is, or to simply gain insight and understanding into the multi-faceted ways infertility presents itself- with no two person's journeys being the same. Love the Patty's xx Instagram: @lovepattypodcast Music: Lilli Fairfax. @lillfairfax