This PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) Awareness Month, we’re shining a light on the journeys of two incredibly courageous women who have navigated the challenges of living with PCOS. Their stories of self-discovery, resilience, and acceptance are powerful reminders of their strength. By sharing their experiences, we hope to honour their bravery and inspire you to embrace your own journey with self-love and confidence.
Leanna’s journey with PCOS started with a deep sense of unease. Her body was sending signals like hair loss, chronic fatigue, irregular menstrual cycles, digestive issues and panic attacks that seemed to come out of nowhere. After countless tests and consultations with her family doctor and hormone specialist, she began using different birth control pills to manage her symptoms. But deep down, she felt that this wasn’t the long term solution she was searching for.
A shift towards natural healing
In 2019, Leanna chose to explore a natural approach. She made the decision to come off birth control and began working with a naturopath. Together, they focused on diet, stress levels, and replenishing her body with the vitamins and minerals it needed. With the help of a holistic nutritionist, she also began to unpack the digestive issues that had affected her for years. It wasn’t just about treating symptoms anymore, it was about understanding the deeper imbalances and working to restore harmony.
Building a community of support
Leanna’s journey was not one she walked alone. As she navigated PCOS, she surrounded herself with a community of support that became her anchor. Her naturopathic doctor and holistic nutritionist guided her through the healing process and gave her a new understanding of her body’s needs. Her performance coach provided the tools to manage stress, an osteopath worked to restore balance in her body, while a psychologist helped her unpack the emotional toll of PCOS. Their combined wisdom and care helped her reconnect with herself.
Redefining femininity and self-worth
When Leanna first noticed her hair thinning, it wasn’t immediate panic but more of a quiet unravelling. Her hair had always been part of her story—something that felt like her own. But as it faded, so did her sense of self-worth. Instead of focusing on the loss, she began to shift her attention to what her body needed to heal. With the help of her nutritionist, she embraced whole foods, lean proteins to balance insulin, and vitamins and minerals to meet her body’s demands.
A new kind of strength
Leanna’s journey revealed a deeper truth. Despite the struggles she had endured, what mattered now was how she chose to care for herself moving forward. It taught her that it’s okay to step back and give herself permission to rest. Instead of pushing through exhaustion, she found strength in recognizing when to refuel, when to pause, and when to let go.
Finding strength in support
Leanna’s story offers hope and solidarity to anyone facing PCOS. We all struggle with different emotions, but sharing our stories can help us feel a little less alone. If you’re navigating PCOS, we’re here to support you through the ups and downs. CanPrev Community’s PCOS Support Group is a space where you can find connection, resources and share your experiences.
Embracing your journey with PCOS can reveal unexpected paths to healing and strength. Check out our full conversation with Leanna as she shares her story.
Until next time,
CanPrev Women
Here are some resources that may help you navigate your PCOS journey:
All about PCOS
Getting help without feeling helpless
Building your self-care tribe
Managing PCOS Naturally – CanPrev Women
Can you relate to Leanna’s story? We’d love to hear from you – share your thoughts with us in the comments below.
