2023-07-02 10:03:42
**Title: Woman with PCOS and Alopecia Opens Up about Struggles with Femininity**
**Subtitle**: Fanny Van der Burg shares her journey with PCOS and alopecia, highlighting the impact on her self-image and daily life.
**Introduction**
Fanny Van der Burg, a 28-year-old woman, has been facing significant challenges in her daily life due to her struggle with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and alopecia. For years, she has dealt with excessive hair growth and a negative self-image, both of which have taken a toll on her femininity. Fanny’s recent diagnosis offers some liberation, but her journey to acceptance has been far from easy.
**The Battle with PCOS**
Years ago, during her pregnancy with her youngest child, Fanny noticed a worsening of her excess hair growth. Seeking professional help for this problem, she had a fortuitous encounter with a doctor who recognized her symptoms as potential signs of PCOS. Finally, after sixteen years, Fanny was referred to the Erasmus hospital for specialized examination.
Detailed tests, including ultrasounds of her ovaries, blood panels, and measurements of egg vesicles, revealed that Fanny indeed has PCOS. The validation she received from this diagnosis felt liberating, as it confirmed her long-standing concerns and experiences with the condition.
**Alopecia and Identity Loss**
However, with the diagnosis came additional physical challenges. Fanny developed androgenetic alopecia, a condition that led to the loss of her head hair and eyebrows. Losing the last remnants of her femininity through her hair loss has been particularly difficult for her to come to terms with. The removal of her uterus earlier this year has further exacerbated her struggle with self-identity.
Fanny’s doctor once commented that this disease makes patients mourn for themselves, and she can relate to this sentiment. Simple acts of self-care, such as buying clothes or going on dates, have become challenging for her. In fact, a past date bluntly rejected her, stating, “I’m not dating a boy.” These experiences have prompted Fanny to seek help from a sexologist.
**Treatment Challenges and Future Hope**
Unfortunately, there are limited treatment options available to Fanny at this time. She has recently acquired a wig, which helps her feel more feminine, although the insurance coverage only partially reimbursed her. Going back on the pill is not an option due to potential complications with her cholesterol medication, putting her at risk for a pulmonary embolism.
Fanny’s concern has now shifted toward her daughter, who has started experiencing similar symptoms. She encourages her daughter to seek medical investigation, as PCOS seems to run in their family, with her mother receiving a diagnosis after Fanny.
**Conclusion**
Fanny Van der Burg’s story provides a glimpse into the challenges faced by individuals with PCOS and alopecia. It sheds light on the emotional and physical toll these conditions can have on a person’s sense of self and femininity. Despite the limited treatment options available, Fanny remains hopeful and urges others in her situation to seek medical help. Her resilience in the face of adversity serves as an inspiration to many, highlighting the importance of understanding and support for those battling these conditions.]
#Samantha #waited #years #PCOS #diagnosis #doctor #asked