Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women, yet its impact is not the same across all demographics. Women of color—particularly Black, Hispanic, South Asian, and Indigenous women—often experience PCOS differently due to genetic predispositions, socioeconomic factors, and disparities in healthcare access. Despite affecting up to 10% of women of reproductive age globally (Azziz et al., 2016), PCOS remains underdiagnosed and poorly understood in these communities. Let’s explore how PCOS affects women of color uniquely and why awareness is crucial.

1. Delayed Diagnosis and Misdiagnosis

Women of color are more likely to experience delays in PCOS diagnosis or be misdiagnosed with other conditions, such as metabolic syndrome or fibroids. A study by Trent et al. (2020) found that Black and Hispanic women were diagnosed with PCOS later than white women, leading to prolonged untreated symptoms and increased health risks. This delay often results from implicit biases in healthcare and a lack of research on PCOS presentations in non-white populations.

2. Increased Metabolic and Cardiovascular Risks

Women of color with PCOS are more likely to experience metabolic complications, including insulin resistance, obesity, and type 2 diabetes. Research indicates that South Asian women with PCOS have a significantly higher risk of insulin resistance compared to their white counterparts (Randeva et al., 2019). Similarly, Black and Hispanic women are disproportionately affected by obesity-related PCOS symptoms, which can increase their risk of cardiovascular disease.

3. More Severe Symptoms and Hormonal Imbalances

Studies suggest that women of color with PCOS often exhibit more severe symptoms. For example, hirsutism (excessive hair growth) and hyperandrogenism (high levels of male hormones) are reportedly more pronounced in Black and South Asian women with PCOS (Gambineri et al., 2019). Additionally, Hispanic women tend to have higher levels of testosterone, which may exacerbate acne and hair loss.

4. Mental Health Disparities

PCOS is closely linked to mental health conditions like anxiety and depression, and women of color may face additional psychological stress due to cultural stigmas, healthcare disparities, and systemic discrimination. Studies have shown that Black and Hispanic women with PCOS report higher levels of psychological distress compared to white women, yet they are less likely to receive mental health support (Cooney et al., 2017).

5. Barriers to Treatment and Care

Women of color often face systemic barriers to accessing quality healthcare, including lack of insurance, financial constraints, and medical racism. Many report feeling dismissed by healthcare providers when they seek treatment for PCOS symptoms. Additionally, cultural misconceptions about weight and fertility may prevent some from seeking medical help early.

Why Representation and Awareness Matter

Medical research and clinical guidelines for PCOS have historically been based on studies of white women, leading to gaps in understanding how the condition affects diverse populations. More inclusive research is needed to develop effective treatment approaches for all women. Additionally, culturally competent healthcare can help bridge the gap in PCOS care for women of color.

Final Thoughts: Prioritizing Health and Advocacy

If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms of PCOS, seeking medical advice from a knowledgeable healthcare provider is crucial. Advocating for better representation in research and demanding equitable healthcare can also help address the disparities faced by women of color.

Disclaimer: This blog is for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for diagnosis and treatment. The authors and publishers of this content are not liable for any actions taken based on this information.

References

• Azziz, R., et al. (2016). “Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.” Nature Reviews Disease Primers, 2, 16057.
• Cooney, L. G., et al. (2017). “High Prevalence of Psychiatric Disorders in Women with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.” Fertility and Sterility, 107(5), 1318-1326.
• Gambineri, A., et al. (2019). “Hirsutism and Hyperandrogenism in PCOS: Clinical Implications and Treatment Strategies.” Best Practice & Research Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 33(6), 101377.
• Randeva, H. S., et al. (2019). “Cardiometabolic Aspects of PCOS: Insulin Resistance and Risk Factors.” Cardiovascular Endocrinology & Metabolism, 8(1), 28-36.
• Trent, M., et al. (2020). “Disparities in Diagnosis of PCOS in Adolescents and Young Women: A Review.” Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology, 33(2), 132-138.