Race, PCOS, and Reproductive Justice

Around 5 million women of reproductive age have PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome). Black women are disproportionately affected by the condition.

In this article, senior policy analyst Krystal Leaphart argues that PCOS is a reproductive justice issue. The racism, sexism, and overall stress and trauma that Black women face affects our health. This contributes to higher rates of PCOS as well as infertility and the risk of cardiovascular disease.

Structural and systemic inequalities also affect how Black women treat PCOS and whether we’re even diagnosed correctly. Racism can hinder Black women from accessing resources, such as fresh food, that could help treat symptoms of PCOS. In the medical system, it can result in delayed diagnoses as Black women’s concerns are ignored or dismissed.

Leaphart calls for greater attention to Black women’s experiences of PCOS, with a reproductive justice approach. When it comes to PCOS, legislation can both help and harm Black women. Abortion restrictions can contribute to increased surveillance and criminalization because of inconsistent menstrual cycles. What we need is more funding for research, screenings, and training for health care professionals. Organizations like PCOS Awareness Association and PCOS Challenge: The National Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Association and the Congressional Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome Caucus are making progress in this regard.

PCOS does not affect all populations equally, and data have shown that it hits Black women especially hard. According to the data, when compared to the general population of women of all races who have PCOS, Black women with PCOS experience higher rates of infertility, obesity, and insulin resistance, as well as a higher risk of cardiovascular disease, which could lead to high blood pressure and abnormal cholesterol.

SOURCE: The Century Foundation • AUTHOR: Krystal Leaphart • LAST UPDATED: November 14, 2024