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A global group of physicians, researchers and patient advocates has officially renamed polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) as polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS). Here’s what you need to know.
“PMOS, formally PCOS, is a complex hormonal and metabolic disorder that can affect several systems throughout the body,” said Azieb Lofton, D.O., a physician with Inspira Health OBGYN. “Our hope is that the name change encourages patients and doctors to speak more clearly about symptoms, risks and treatment options.”
What led to the PCOS name change?
Despite the word “polycystic,” not everyone with PCOS has ovarian cysts. In many cases, the cysts seen on imaging are small follicles, fluid-filled sacs that contain immature eggs. This wording has contributed to confusion for patients and may have led some people to believe they could not have the condition if cysts were not found on an ultrasound.
The new name highlights three important parts of the condition:
- “Polyendocrine” means the condition can involve multiple hormones
- “Metabolic” points to effects on insulin, weight, cholesterol and blood sugar
- “Ovarian” acknowledges that reproductive health is an important part of the diagnosis
Together, PMOS provides patients and clinicians with a broader understanding of the condition.
What PMOS can look like
PMOS symptoms can vary from person to person. Some people first notice irregular or missed menstrual cycles. Others may seek care for acne, excess facial or body hair, thinning scalp hair, pelvic pain, difficulty getting pregnant or unexplained weight changes.
“The condition is also linked to insulin resistance, which means the body has a harder time using insulin effectively,” said Dr. Lofton. “Over time, this can increase the risk of type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, cardiovascular disease, obstructive sleep apnea and other long-term health concerns.” PMOS has also been associated with a higher risk of endometrial cancer.
Some people experience anxiety, depression or body image concerns related to symptoms, especially when they feel dismissed or have trouble getting answers.
Because PMOS can lead to such a wide range of symptoms, issues that seem unrelated may actually be connected. Understanding those connections can help patients ask more informed questions and get the right support sooner.
What this means for your care
“The name change from PCOS to PMOS doesn’t mean that every patient needs a new diagnosis, and it doesn't necessarily change your treatment plan,” said Dr. Lofton. “Regardless of the name change, care is based on your symptoms, health goals and stage of life.”
Treatment may include lifestyle changes, hormonal birth control, medications to improve insulin resistance, additional screenings or other treatments tailored to your needs.
If you’ve previously been diagnosed with PCOS, the name change may prompt you to revisit your care plan.
At your next visit with your OB/GYN, consider asking the following questions:
- What does PMOS mean for my personal health risks?
- Should I be screened for insulin resistance, diabetes, high cholesterol or high blood pressure?
- Do I need to be evaluated for sleep apnea or cardiovascular risk factors?
- What symptoms of endometrial cancer should I know about?
- Are my current treatments still the best fit for my symptoms and goals?
- How often should I follow up for long-term monitoring?
- Do I need support from an OB/GYN, endocrinologist, primary care doctor, dietitian or mental health professional?
A new name can help shift the conversation. PMOS recognizes the full-body effects of the condition and reinforces the importance of care that considers the whole person.
