Jeni Gutke of Joliet, Illinois, is one of the estimated 5 million women in the U.S. who are dealing with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This hormonal condition affects multiple aspects of a woman’s health, leading to a range of symptoms such as migraines, high blood pressure, diabetes, high cholesterol, anxiety, and depression.
Due to a lack of FDA-approved medications for PCOS, patients like Gutke rely on off-label prescriptions to manage their symptoms. The limited funding for PCOS research has also resulted in only $10 million being earmarked for research by the National Institutes of Health in 2024.
Doctors recommend hormonal contraceptives and off-label medications to address symptoms like heavy periods, acne, and weight gain associated with PCOS. However, the cause of the condition is still poorly understood, with high levels of androgen hormones believed to play a role.
Women with PCOS are at higher risk for metabolic conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, and high cholesterol. However, the criteria used by doctors to diagnose PCOS may not cover all relevant symptoms, leading to missed diagnoses.
Online communities on social media are providing support and resources for women living with PCOS, helping them navigate the challenges of the condition and share treatment approaches that work for them. Some small drug companies are conducting studies on potential PCOS treatments, but larger clinical trials depend on securing additional financing.
Candice Bolden, who was misdiagnosed multiple times before being correctly diagnosed with PCOS in 2021, is using her experience to raise awareness about the condition. She, along with other women living with PCOS, emphasizes the importance of finding hope and support in managing the symptoms of the condition, highlighting the need for increased research and treatment options for PCOS.