Imagine playing a character who becomes a surrogate for a couple struggling with infertility… while, behind the scenes, you’re navigating your own reproductive health diagnosis. That was actor, comedian, and singer Lauren Ash’s reality.
On Superstore, Lauren played Dina, who becomes a surrogate for Glenn and Jerusha. At the same time, Lauren was privately navigating PMOS (formerly known as PCOS), chronic pain, ovarian cysts, and two surgeries.
In this episode, Lauren opens up about her experience with PMOS, finding a diagnosis, undergoing surgery while filming Superstore, and the impact the condition had on her body, her quality of life, and the way she thought about her own fertility and future.
Lauren also shares what happened when she began speaking publicly about her diagnosis and thousands of people reached out to share their own experiences. She talks about building community, advocating for more research and awareness, navigating weight changes in the public eye, and why sharing our stories can make others feel less alone.
The episode’s midroll spotlight features Noom Medical Director and OB-GYN Dr. Karen Mann, who explains what PMOS is, why the name change from PCOS matters, and why the condition extends far beyond fertility. She also discusses the connection between PMOS, metabolic health, weight, and fertility, including what we know—and what we’re still learning—about GLP-1 medications.
Lauren’s story is a reminder that PMOS can shape far more than fertility, and that understanding your body, finding the right support, and advocating for yourself can be an important part of navigating your health journey.
This episode is presented by Noom. Through the science of behavior change and personalized care, Noom is helping people take meaningful steps toward better metabolic health. Learn more at Noom.com and use code NOOMISH15 for 15% off.
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