If you feel tired all the time, you’re not alone. Members of myPCOSteam say they experience extreme fatigue, particularly during their cycles. “I'm always tired, but during my periods, [I'm] exhausted to the point where I’m late for work, cannot properly function, and so lethargic. How do you deal with this?” asked one member. PCOS-related hormone imbalances may be one reason for flagging energy.

Doctors also check for hypothyroid, vitamin D levels, anemia, and other fatigue-triggering issues, often to no avail. And not having answers creates even more stress for women with PCOS. "I’ve had all the blood work, only thing that came up was low vitamin D. I’ve been taking vitamins [and doing] exercise, but [still] dragging,” reported one woman, echoing the concerns of others. “Doctors are clueless about PCOS and want to write fatigue off as middle age,” remarked another. Supplementing with vitamins or iron has helped some women, though always check with your doctor before adding them to your diet.

Others have had success with low-carb diets. “I'm now trying a Keto diet. It healed a couple of my friends who have PCOS.” Another swears by vigorous exercise. “Even a few jumping jacks, pushups, lunges, and body weight exercises can help,” she said. Getting lots of sleep, however, is the holy grail. “Fatigue with PCOS is SO REAL. For me [enough sleep] means 9-10 hours. That might be too much [for others], but it’s the only thing that staves off daytime tiredness,” explained one member. Connecting with other women who “get it” - and can provide support - is important when living with PCOS and fatigue.

On myPCOSteam, the social network and online support group for women living with PCOS, members talk about a range of personal experiences and struggles. Fatigue is one of the top 10 topics most discussed.

Here are some conversations about fatigue:

• Really tired today... doctor seems to think I have GERD or something wrong with my digestion and stomach acid. As if my everyday fatigue wasn't enough :/
• I’m so tired right now I have a lot of homework to do but I feel so drained. I barely have the energy to do anything. Does anyone have any recommendations as far as what they use or do to combat fatigue?
• I struggle with varying degrees of fatigue (usually more on the higher/severe side). I have consistently struggled with being on time to work.

Here are some question and answer threads about fatigue:

• Do any of you ladies struggle with fatigue? Is there anything I can take to help?
• How do you deal with debilitating fatigue during your period?
• Does anyone else suffer from fatigue and sugar crashes?

Can you relate?

Have another topic you'd like to discuss or explore? Go to myPCOSteam today and start the conversation. You'll be surprised just how many others may share similar stories.

Feel free to ask a question here.