Woman Enough? How Online PCOS Counterpublics Make Space for Alternative Femininities

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects both the health and physical appearance of women with the condition, often in ways that disturb or go against traditional notions of femininity. In recent years, research on the topic of PCOS and social media use has been explored. Still, studies have yet to examine how women with PCOS utilize these online communities to navigate their gender expression. This study builds on gender performativity and counterpublic theory to make sense of how femininity is negotiated within online PCOS spaces. The data for this study was collected via two semi-structured group interviews and participant observation in a PCOS subreddit. After data was collected, a deductive thematic analysis was conducted to find patterns present in both the interviews and digital discourse. Findings from this analysis revealed that many women with PCOS feel pressured into performing a certain standard of femininity. Failure to perform femininity properly often resulted in social correction for the participants. Online counterpublics, such as Reddit, however, offer safe spaces for gender norms and societal pressures to be questioned and resisted without shame. This research illustrates the power of these spaces by positioning online PCOS communities as necessary counterpublics, fostering environments accepting of alternative gender performance, and providing members with a sense of relief and recognition.