Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age—impacting nearly 1 in 10 women worldwide. Yet for African American women, PCOS often goes unrecognized, underdiagnosed, and untreated.
At Rooted in Violet, we believe it’s time to break the silence. By raising awareness about PCOS in Black women, we can empower women to advocate for their health and access the care they deserve.
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What is PCOS?
PCOS is a hormonal condition that affects the ovaries and metabolism. It can cause:
- Irregular or absent menstrual cycles
- Excess hair growth (face, chest, back, stomach)
- Acne or oily skin
- Thinning hair on the scalp
- Weight gain, especially around the belly
- Difficulty getting pregnant
But PCOS is about more than reproductive health. It is also linked to insulin resistance, diabetes, high cholesterol, and heart disease.
Why Black Women Face Unique Barriers
Research shows that African American women may experience more severe symptoms of PCOS, but are less likely to receive timely diagnosis and treatment.
Why?
- Bias in healthcare: Symptoms like weight gain or irregular cycles are often dismissed as lifestyle issues.
- Cultural stigma: Many Black women are taught not to openly discuss reproductive health, which silences early warning signs.
- Limited research: Most PCOS studies underrepresent women of color, leaving gaps in understanding how PCOS uniquely affects Black women.
This silence creates long-term consequences—higher risks for infertility, diabetes, hypertension, and heart disease.
The Mental Health Impact
PCOS doesn’t just affect the body—it affects the mind.
Black women with PCOS report higher rates of:
- Anxiety
- Depression
- Body image struggles
- Feelings of being dismissed or unheard
Living with PCOS without support can feel isolating. But awareness, community, and culturally responsive care can help lift that weight.
What Symptoms Should You Track?
If you suspect PCOS, keep note of:
- Irregular or missing periods
- Sudden weight changes
- Acne or hair growth in new areas
- Hair thinning or hair loss
- Fatigue or low energy
Bring this list to your doctor—it’s a powerful way to advocate for yourself.
Breaking the Silence Starts With You
PCOS is common. PCOS is serious. And PCOS deserves to be talked about openly in our community.
If you recognize these symptoms in yourself or someone you love, know that you are not alone—and your health matters.
Take the Next Step
At Rooted in Violet & Co, we are ready to help you take your next steps in preparing for your appointment. Become a Member of Rooted in Violet & Co. and you will gain access to the PCOS: What to Track and Say at Appointments Violet Sheet.
👉 Access the Violet Sheet -PCOS: What to Track and Say at Appointments
And don’t miss the Rooted in Violet Podcast, Episode 1: How Polycystic Ovary Disease Affects Black Women for a deeper dive.
References
- March WA, Moore VM, Willson KJ, Phillips DI, Norman RJ, Davies MJ. The prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome in a community sample assessed under contrasting diagnostic criteria. Hum Reprod.
- ACOG Committee Opinion No. 789: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in Adolescents. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists.
- Sirmans, S.M., & Pate, K.A. (2014). Epidemiology, diagnosis, and management of PCOS. Clinical Epidemiology.