[Help] DAE with PCOS have any tips or experiences to share?

I'm a textbook example of a woman with PCOS (Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome) and from what I've been reading that has probably contributed quite a bit to the challenges I've faced when trying to maintain a healthy weight and lose weight.

I understand that my body handles insulin differently and that even a very reduced calorie diet can result in no loss. Of course, adding substantial exercise to the picture helps considerably but it's still quite a bit more difficult in cases of PCOS. If I understand correctly, it's kind of like my body is always in starvation mode so it doesn't want to let go of the fat stores. It also means I have to keep the carbs and sugars very, very low if I want to lose anything at all. I understand, too, that the best way to reduce and improve PCOS symptoms is to maintain a healthy weight... which is harder to do... Waaah!

Do any of you ladies have experience with PCOS and weight loss? Tips? Success stories? Good advice you've received from your doctor? How about medications? I keep hearing that Metformin can be helpful but I don't really want to start taking drugs if they aren't necessary. I also know that the pill can be helpful for treating symptoms but I have been on about 10 different BC pills in my life and I loathe every single one of them and how they make me feel. I would really rather live a life that is free of prescription medications unless they are absolutely, positively necessary.

I've been eating between 1200 and 1350 calories a day for about 3 weeks now and for the last 2 weeks I haven't lost an ounce. I'm feeling a little frustrated and intimidated by knowing that this is going to be harder for me than it would be for the average person. It's already tough enough!

Since PCOS affects as much as 10% of the female population, I have to think that a few of you have dealt with this. What can you share with me that might be helpful?

Thanks very much!