She Strengthens

The Hidden Cost of Living with PCOS

As a teenager, I was faced with an unexpected expense: a bleaching kit to tackle my sudden and unwelcome mustache. Little did I know, this was just the beginning of a lifetime of financial burdens associated with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS). Officially diagnosed at 15, I soon learned to expect a range of physical and mental health challenges, from fertility struggles and weight gain to depression and acne. But one aspect of living with PCOS took me by surprise: the staggering financial cost.

A Common Condition with Limited Funding

PCOS affects an estimated 1 in 10 women in the United States, yet research and treatment funding are limited. Health insurance coverage can be challenging to secure, and even when covered, treatment often requires multiple specialists. This means that women with PCOS are often left to foot the bill for critical appointments, lab exams, and medications.

A Cycle of Stress and Expense

The financial strain of managing PCOS can trigger symptoms, creating a vicious cycle. Unable to afford treatment, symptoms worsen, and the emotional toll mounts. Last month, I found myself sobbing in a pharmacy, faced with an $800 medication bill or the alternative: going without. This experience forced me to confront the cumulative financial burden of living with PCOS.

The Emotional Labor of PCOS

Over the years, I’ve spent thousands on medications, services, and products to manage my symptoms. From birth control and supplements to waxing, threading, and laser hair removal, the expenses add up quickly. Add to that the cost of navigating insurance companies, conducting research, and seeking support from specialists and online communities. The emotional labor of living with PCOS is exhausting, and the financial weight is crushing.

Finding Balance and Self-Care

While some expenses may seem like self-care for others, for me, they’re essential to finding balance in a body that often feels like it’s working against me. Each dollar spent is a step towards healing, self-esteem, and confidence. The price of living with PCOS goes beyond money, but the financial burden is a constant reminder of the sacrifices I must make.

A Choice in How I Live with PCOS

Deciding not to spend hundreds of dollars on a prescribed medication has given me a sense of control and empowerment. It’s a reminder that, despite the financial burden, I still have choices in how I live with this condition.