What If Your PCOS Is Actually Hypothalamic Amenorrhea? How to Spot a Misdiagnosis and Get Your Period Back
Misdiagnosis is more common than you might think, especially for women navigating the complexities of hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA) and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). These two conditions can share overlapping symptoms, but the mechanisms driving them couldn’t be more different.
Imagine dedicating months—or even years—of your life to treating PCOS, only to find out that your actual diagnosis was hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA) all along. The frustration, confusion, and wasted time can be overwhelming.
This is exactly what happened to one of our Restore Your Fertility clients. After being misdiagnosed with PCOS, she found herself deeper in hypothalamic amenorrhea (HA), despite following the typical advice for managing PCOS. Her journey to clarity and recovery highlights the importance of having someone on your team who understands the nuances of HA and can tailor a plan that truly works for you.
Here’s her inspiring story:
After 11 years of being on the pill her client was ready to start a family. However, after stopping the pill, 10 months later, she still had no period. 👀
And because she was (mis)diagnosed with PCOS due to her missing period she…
🥗 Went low carb
🏋️♀️ Did HIIT workouts
🚶 Walked over 15,000 steps a day
💊 Took every supplement the internet recommended for PCOS
Unfortunately this drove her deeper into hypothalamic amenorrhea.
Why? Because what she actually had was hypothalamic amenorrhea—not PCOS.
She didn’t know exactly what was going on; all she knew was that she was doing “all the right things,” yet her period was still MIA. 🆘
The Turning Point: Finding Restore Your Fertility
After months of confusion, she discovered The HA Society while searching for answers, she found resonance in other women's stories, similar to hers. After a discovery call with Ashley, they both concluded that The Restore Your Fertility Program was the perfect fit for her.
Here’s what she worked on:
✅ Added in more complex carbs
✅ Paused HIIT workouts
✅ Reduced her steps because her overall NEAT was so high
Then 💥 BOOM! 💥 Within 3 weeks she ovulated and got her period
Misdiagnosis Is Common—But Fixable
She was close and just needed those last few tweaks. However, she was hesitant and uncertain about them because they were completely opposite to what she had been advised to do to manage her misdiagnosis of PCOS.
It wasn't easy, but having someone in her corner who’s been there, providing not just a clear path but also a safe space, made it easier.
This is why it’s so important to have someone on your team who’s experienced in HA. Someone who can view your lab work and symptoms through the HA lens.
Ready for clarity and support on your journey?
If you want a second opinion on your lab work and the confidence of an accurate diagnosis, we’re here to help. You can join our 10wk group coaching program, The Restore Your Fertility or perhaps your vibe is more 1:1 coaching.
Not quite ready for coaching? Join our supportive community at The HA Society, where you’ll find encouragement, resources, and connection with others on the same path.
We’d love to be part of your recovery journey—because you don’t have to do this alone!
Want the full story? Tune into her episode on our podcast!
Want to explore more on the difference between HA and PCOS? Check out my YouTube.
