Kimb
If she has started to get her period than she can have PCOS. It is not an "age" specific disease. Which means...DO NOT let a doctor put you or her off because she is young!!! The symptoms of PCOS are fairly clear. Irregular cycles, acne, overweight, oily skin, lowering voice, facial hair, her breasts may be slower in developing than what is normal for her age. The reason is that women with PCOS have a higher level of Testosterone. Also there is a strong link to diabetic problems. Blood tests should be able to determine BOTH of these problems. An ultrasound should be able to detect the large, abnormal amount of cysts in her ovaries... Birth control pills help for several reasons. First, it regulates the period cycle. It helps control the pain that irregular cycles can cause, less cramping! Second, it helps lower the risk of irregular cysts by keeping hormones at an even keel throughout the month. A monophasic pill is best. Meaning that the pill stays the same color, except for the sugar pill taken during cycle week. Keeping her estrogen up and testoserone down is the goal. The pill completely compensates forour normal hormones. We will NOT produce our own hormones while on the pill. Most women also need to take Glucophage or similar. This is due to the diabetic link... This is a fairly new discovery so ask a lot of questions. If your doctor acts like your concerns for your daughters health are no big deal find a new doctor!!!!!!!! You pay them good money to help keep you well AND INFORMED!!!!!! Do NOT let them put you off! You deserve answers and your daughters age has NOTHING to do with it! There could be a number of other things goind on with your daughter and you will not find out what they are until you get a doctor who will listen! Good Luck!