Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common lifelong disorders affecting women of reproductive age that affects how a person’s ovaries work.

We’ve seen Keke Palmer and Victoria Monet share their experiences with PCOS, and many of us likely know someone personally who struggle with this disorder.

When it comes to this disorder, there is no known cause or cure. It is often marked by signs such as acne, weight gain, excessive body hair, dark skin patches—all visible symptoms that can affect our body image and the way we feel about ourselves.

At Uterine Care Collaborative, we want to focus on recognizing common symptoms, learning how to talk with a doctor and your loved ones about how your body feels, and learning to manage PCOS in healthy ways.

What are the statistics?

  • The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that PCOS affects about 6% to 12% of women of reproductive age.

  • According to a 2018 NCBI study, 8% of Black women have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), while 4.8% of Caucasian women have the condition.

  • Black women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) have higher risk factors for heart disease, diabetes and stroke compared with white women, according to a study presented virtually at ENDO 2021, the Endocrine Society’s annual meeting.

  • It is estimated that up to 70% of women with PCOS remain undiagnosed, largely due to varying symptoms and lack of awareness.

  • The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists notes that PCOS is one of the leading causes of infertility, particularly due to anovulation, or failure to release an egg during menstruation.

  • A study published in Fertility and Sterility and data from the National Institutes of Health (NIH) estimate the annual economic burden of PCOS management in the United States to be over $4 billion.

  • Research published in the Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism highlights the increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mental health disorders among women with PCOS.

How does polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) look for Black women?

  • Weight Gain

    Midsection weight gain is a common symptom of PCOS, often resulting in an apple shape. Weight gain can be a result of insulin resistance, which makes it difficult for your body to convert sugar properly.

  • Acne

    Androgen, a hormone that typically gives men their "male" characteristics, exists at high levels with PCOS. This can stimulate oil glands to create too much sebum, an oily material. Skin build-ups become more likely, which traps germs and causes inflammation resulting in pimples and hormonal acne.

  • Menstrual Irregularities

    Irregularities in your period is one of the most common symptoms of PCOS. Women with this disorder may go for long periods without a period, experience inconsistent periods, or experience heavy bleeding and pelvic pain during or outside of periods.

  • Excessive Body Hair (Hirsutism)

    Hirsutism is characterized by thick, dark hair on various areas of the body. Women with PCOS often notice this hair on their chin and upper lip. It can be difficult and even painful to get rid of with typical hair removal methods such as tweezing or waxing.

     

  • Chronic Inflammation

    Women with PCOS often notice inflammation that presents as headaches, joint pain, unexplained fatigue, skin issues like eczema and bowel issues like IBS, especially during a PCOS flare-up.

  • Infertility

    PCOS can make it difficult to get pregnant due to irregular or absent ovulation, also known as anovulation, or failure to release an egg during menstruation.

What can we do about it?

We can first begin by recognizing that because there is no cause or cure, there is no one size fits all way to manage PCOS.

Weight loss is often suggested as a management strategy, and while helpful, it is not a guaranteed or quick fix. Many people with the disorder often struggle to lose weight and go to exhaustive and frustrating measures to see results.

Uterine Care Collaborative sees you and we understand your experience. We encourage goals for your journey ahead that include tangible lifestyle modifications.

Our Management Strategy

Consult with a Medical Provider

At Uterine Care Collaborative, we cannot give you a diagnosis or a personalized treatment plan. We can encourage you to consult with a provider or medical specialist that takes the time to listen to you and works with you on a lifelong plan for effective management.

Get Active

Focus on staying active, not losing weight. Weight is not the only indicator of good health, and many people with PCOS find that a lifestyle that incorporates movement is helpful to them.

Track Your Symptoms

Keep a lifestyle journal or take mental notes that help you learn what relieves symptoms and what causes flare-ups for you. Fried foods, red meat, processed foods, and foods and drinks high in sugar are common triggers.

Prioritize Self-Care

Engage in a self-care routine that prioritizes stress reduction. Get plenty of sleep, incorporate activities that make you feel good, and consider practices like yoga and meditation.

Questions to Ask Your Provider

Explore questions to ask your healthcare provider about uterine cancer, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), fibroids, and endometriosis. Learn about diagnosis, treatment options, side effects, and support resources that help you make informed decisions.