Leaf Shave's Donation to PCOSAA
During Leaf Shave's "Beyond the Razor" campaign for PCOS Awareness Month, $5 from every Dermaplaner Super Bundle sold during September was donated to PCOSAA. The goal was to learn, educate, spread awareness, and amplify the voices of people with PCOS. During this campaign, we were lucky enough to do a Q+A with the PCOSAA team!
Please tell us about how PCOSAA started and Megan’s Journey to Start PCOSAA!
PCOS Awareness Association (PCOSAA) was founded by Megan M. Stewart, who, after her own diagnosis, recognized the need for greater awareness, information, and support for those affected by Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). Megan's journey began with her personal struggle with numerous attempts of failed diagnosis of her symptoms and the discovery of the lack of resources and understanding surrounding PCOS by medical professionals led her to establish PCOSAA to empower others facing similar challenges.
What are some common myths about PCOS?
Common myths about PCOS include the belief that it only affects overweight women, that it is rare, and that it is solely a reproductive disorder. However, PCOS can affect women of all body types, is relatively common, and has a spectrum of symptoms beyond fertility issues, such as metabolic and cardiovascular health risks.
PCOS symptoms look and feel different for everyone, can you elaborate on that and some most common symptoms?
PCOS symptoms indeed vary widely among individuals, which is why it's often called a 'syndrome' rather than a disease. Some of the most common symptoms include irregular menstrual cycles, hirsutism (excessive hair growth), acne, and weight gain. However, some may experience only mild symptoms, while others face a more severe manifestation, underscoring the personalized nature of the condition.
What do you want people to know about PCOS if this is their first time learning about it?
For those learning about PCOS for the first time, it's important to know that it is a complex endocrine disorder with a wide range of symptoms and implications for overall health. Early diagnosis and management are crucial for improving quality of life and reducing the risk of long-term complications. Remember, you are not alone.
How can people help support PCOS from home?
Supporting PCOS from home can be as simple as educating oneself and others about the condition, advocating for better healthcare services for PCOS, or participating in online support groups and forums. Additionally, lifestyle modifications, such as a balanced diet and regular exercise, can be beneficial for managing symptoms.
Anything else you'd like us and our community to know about PCOS and or PCOSAA?
Lastly, it's vital for our community to understand that PCOS is more than just a condition affecting ovarian health; it's a lifelong health challenge that requires ongoing management and support. PCOSAA is dedicated to providing that support, raising awareness, and advocating for research to improve the lives of those with PCOS. Together, we can make a difference in the lives of millions of women and families affected by PCOS.
Check out PCOSAA's website for more information.
