Celebrities Shine a Light on PCOS, Raising Awareness of the Common-and Often Misunderstood-Condition
A growing number of high-profile figures are publicly discussing their experiences with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), a hormonal disorder common among women of reproductive age.Their openness is dismantling stigmas, fostering crucial conversations about reproductive health, and empowering millions who navigate the condition’s often-debilitating symptoms. PCOS affects an estimated 6-12% of women of reproductive age, frequently causing irregular periods, ovarian cysts, and elevated androgen levels, potentially leading to infertility, metabolic issues, and psychological distress. Increased visibility from celebrities is driving demand for better research, diagnosis, and treatment options.
While often shrouded in silence, PCOS impacts physical and mental wellbeing, and can significantly complicate family planning. Celebrities sharing their journeys are normalizing the challenges and encouraging others to seek medical attention. Here are five public figures who have bravely spoken out about their battles with PCOS:
1. Bebe Rexha: The singer-songwriter recently revealed her PCOS diagnosis while discussing body image pressures in the entertainment industry. During an interview with Gayle King, Rexha recounted being told by her record label early in her career that she needed to lose 20 pounds. “I just found out recently that I have PCOS, and a lot of women have it,” she shared. Rexha also disclosed experiencing a pregnancy loss and grappling with infertility related to the condition, sharing via a now-deleted tweet, ”I got pregnant, and it didn’t work out, and I’ve been carrying that pain in silence.”
2. Halsey: The musician publicly discussed her PCOS journey in 2016, detailing multiple miscarriages and the emotional toll of trying to conceive. Halsey has been vocal about the difficulties of navigating PCOS while pursuing a demanding career. “I’ve had three miscarriages, four surgeries, and I was diagnosed with endometriosis and PCOS,” she revealed in an interview with The Advocate. She has since welcomed a child, but continues to advocate for greater understanding of reproductive health issues.
3.Lena Dunham: The actress and writer has been open about her struggles with endometriosis and PCOS, detailing her experiences with chronic pain, infertility, and the frustrating process of seeking a diagnosis. Dunham has used her platform to advocate for better healthcare for women and to challenge societal expectations surrounding motherhood. “My PCOS and endometriosis have made every step of my reproductive life a battle,” she wrote in a 2018 essay for Lenny Letter.
4.Victoria Beckham: The fashion designer and former Spice Girl has spoken candidly about her PCOS diagnosis and its impact on her fertility. Beckham revealed in 2018 that she underwent IVF treatment to conceive her children. “I was told I had PCOS, and I was devastated,” she told The Sunday Times. “It was a tough time, but I was determined to have a family.”
5.Molly Sims: The model and actress has been a vocal advocate for PCOS awareness since her own diagnosis in her early twenties. Sims founded the PCOS Challenge, a non-profit organization dedicated to raising awareness, providing support, and funding research. ”I didn’t know what was happening to my body,” Sims shared with healthline. “I was gaining weight, losing hair, and having irregular periods. It took years to get a diagnosis.”
