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Cycle Tracking with the Fertility Awareness Method: How It Led to My PCOS Diagnosis


Fertility Awareness Method

Our menstrual cycles are a window into our overall health, offering insights far beyond fertility. Through cycle tracking, I not only deepened my connection with my body but also uncovered an important piece of my health journey—my diagnosis of lean PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome). Here’s how the Fertility Awareness Method (FAM) became my guide to understanding my body and advocating for my health.


What Is the Fertility Awareness Method?

The Fertility Awareness Method (FAM) is a natural approach to understanding your reproductive health by tracking specific biomarkers, including:

  • Basal Body Temperature (BBT): Your body’s temperature upon waking, which can signal ovulation.

  • Cervical Mucus Patterns: Changes in cervical mucus indicate different phases of your cycle.

  • Cycle Length and Phases: Recording the length of your cycle and its luteal (post-ovulation) and follicular (pre-ovulation) phases.


This method allows you to identify fertile windows, understand hormonal changes, and gain a clearer picture of your menstrual health.


My Journey with FAM

When I started using FAM, my goal was to learn more about my body and its natural rhythms in order to improve my chances of conception. Every day, for roughly three months, I tracked my BBT, cervical mucus, and cycle lengths. It wasn’t long before I noticed patterns that weren't ideal for fertility. Here’s what stood out:


  • My cycles were irregular - one month I would have a 24 day cycle and the next, I would have a 32 day cycle.

  • My BBT was VERY low, hovering between 96.4 - 97.3

  • I experienced some symptoms—like fatigue and light spotting during ovulation and right before my period.

  • My luteal phase was only 9-10 days long when it should ideally be 12-14 days.


After getting some blood work done, and being told I have “normal” and even “excellent” results on routine hormone tests, I knew something was off. My FAM charts became my evidence, giving me the confidence to push for more comprehensive testing.


Advocating for Answers

With my cycle tracking data, I returned to my healthcare provider and explained my concerns. She listened and immediately insisted on an ultrasound to investigate further.


The ultrasound revealed polycystic ovaries—multiple small follicles that hadn’t developed fully. This, combined with my cycle irregularities and other subtle symptoms, led to my diagnosis: lean PCOS.


What Is Lean PCOS?

PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) is often associated with insulin resistance and weight gain, but lean PCOS affects those who don’t fit the typical profile. People with lean PCOS may have:

  • Irregular or absent ovulation.

  • Hormonal imbalances, such as elevated androgens (male hormones).

  • Symptoms like acne, hair thinning, or ovarian cysts.


Lean PCOS can be challenging to diagnose because traditional blood work may not reveal obvious hormonal imbalances, and physical symptoms are often subtle.


How FAM Changed My Life

Cycle tracking gave me the clarity and confidence to advocate for my health when standard tests didn’t provide answers. Without FAM, I might have continued doing what I had been for almost a year—acupuncture and stress management—without addressing the critical role of nutrition in my journey to conceive.


Through my diagnosis, I’ve been able to make empowered changes to support my body, including:

  • Adjusting my nutrition to stabilize blood sugar and support hormone balance.

  • Re-incorporating my favorite stress-reducing practices - yoga, walking, and being present.

  • Using womb-care techniques like castor oil packs, yoni steaming, and self-massage to nurture my womb space specifically for PCOS.


Why Cycle Tracking Matters

FAM isn’t just for those trying to conceive—it’s a tool for everyone with a menstrual cycle to understand their body. By tracking your cycle, you can:

  • Identify potential health concerns, like irregular cycles or hormonal imbalances.

  • Gain a deeper understanding of your unique rhythms.

  • Use this knowledge to advocate for yourself with healthcare providers.


If you’ve ever felt like something isn’t right with your cycles, I encourage you to try the Fertility Awareness Method. Trust in your body’s wisdom and the power of your observations. Your charts can be a gateway to better understanding your health and getting the answers you deserve.


Are you struggling with irregular cycles or hormonal challenges or know someone who is? Join us on December, 18th, 2024 for Womb Wellness Wednesday with Mary Aline of Cycle Wisdom. Take the first step on your journey to self-awareness and healing by learning how to properly track your cycles. Let’s honor our cycles together. 💖

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