September is PCOS Awareness Month
Important Update: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is now officially known as Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS), following an international global consensus published in The Lancet (May 12, 2026). The updated name better reflects that the condition affects multiple hormone systems, metabolism, and overall health, rather than just the ovaries. While the terminology is changing, PCOS and PMOS refer to the same condition, and there is no change to diagnosis, treatment, or ongoing care. During the transition period, both terms may be used interchangeably in medical literature and healthcare settings.
Overview
PCOS/PMOS is a common hormonal and metabolic condition that can affect menstrual cycles, fertility, and overall health. This article explains the terminology around PCOS and PMOS, including symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment, fertility, and the importance of awareness and long-term management.
What Is PMOS/PCOS?
PMOS/PCOS is a hormonal disorder that disrupts the functioning of the ovaries. When women with PMOS/PCOS experience elevated levels of androgens produced by their ovaries, it results in an imbalance of the other reproductive hormones.
This causes irregular menstrual cycles (periods), unpredictable ovulations, and difficulties becoming pregnant. Ultrasound images may show small follicular cysts on the surface of the ovaries; however, not all individuals diagnosed with PMOS/PCOS will have observable cysts.
Why Is PCOS Now Being Called PMOS?
The name change was implemented in May 2026, resulting from a multi-step global consensus process developed by an international collaboration involving researchers, clinicians, and patients.
Although the original name emphasized the presence of ovarian cysts associated with PCOS and PMOS, many people with the condition did not develop cysts. The focus on cysts resulted in confusion and delays in receiving a proper diagnosis.
The new name, Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) , provides a more comprehensive description of the hormonal, metabolic, and ovarian characteristics of the condition.
In addition to improving understanding and reducing stigma surrounding the condition, the new name supports a broader, more holistic view of providing quality care for affected individuals.
What Are the Symptoms of PMOS/PCOS?
Individuals experiencing PMOS/PCOS display various symptoms depending on their unique experiences. Some common symptoms include:
- Irregular or absent menstruation (periods), potentially accompanied by excessive menstrual flow
- Excessive hair growth on the upper lip, breasts, chest, lower abdomen, and pelvic area
- Acne located primarily on the back, chest, and/or facial areas
- Increased weight (obesity) and difficulty maintaining an optimal weight for one’s body size
- Hair thinning
- Darkening of skin pigmentation over time, generally seen in the neck region, armpits, and other areas
- Formation of skin tags
- Difficulty becoming pregnant
Some people with PMOS/PCOS may never notice any symptoms.
What Causes PMOS/PCOS?
While there are multiple contributing factors related to the development of PMOS/PCOS, the underlying cause is still unknown.
Several theories regarding causative factors include increased production of androgens by the ovaries, insulin resistance, low-level inflammation, genetic predisposition, and obesity.
Many people with PMOS/PCOS report having family members who also experienced the condition.
How Is PMOS/PCOS Diagnosed?
Typically, a healthcare provider will begin diagnosing PMOS/PCOS based on patient reports of symptoms and medical history, followed by performing a physical examination, then assessing hormone and glucose levels through blood testing, and possibly using an ultrasound examination of the pelvis.
What Are the Diagnostic Criteria for PMOS/PCOS?
Healthcare providers typically diagnose PMOS/PCOS if two or more of the following three signs are observed:
- Irregular or absent menstruation (periods)
- Indications of excessive androgen production, including:
- Acne
- Excessive hair growth
- High blood test values indicating high levels of androgens
- Enlarged ovaries or polycystic-appearing ovaries on an ultrasound image
While enlarged ovaries and polycystic appearances on ultrasound images may support a diagnosis of PMOS/PCOS, they are not required.
What Is the Treatment for PMOS?
Treatment plans for PMOS/PCOS depend on individualized needs and goals for reproduction. For those whose primary concern is not conception, available treatment options may include:
- Hormonal birth-control methods to regulate menstrual cycles
- Metformin and similar medications to increase sensitivity to insulin
- Medication that blocks the effects of androgens
- Healthy eating habits
- Regular exercise programs
- For individuals seeking to conceive, potential treatment plans may include:
- Ovulation-inducing medications
- Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART) like IVF
PMOS/PCOS and Fertility: Can You Get Pregnant With PMOS/PCOS?
Many individuals with PMOS/PCOS successfully achieve pregnancy. However, individuals with PMOS/PCOS may find it challenging to conceive due to irregular ovulation patterns.
Healthcare providers can assist with developing a treatment plan designed to enhance chances of conception. Additionally, individuals with PMOS/PCOS may experience a slightly higher risk of specific complications during pregnancy.
What Health Problems Can PMOS/PCOS Cause?
In addition to reproductive concerns (irregular periods, fertility challenges), individuals with PMOS/PCOS are at greater risk for additional health-related concerns, including:
- Type II Diabetes Mellitus
- High Blood Pressure/Hypertension
- Cardiovascular Disease
- Endometrial Hyperplasia
- Sleep Apnea
- Depression
- Anxiety
Regular follow-up visits with your healthcare provider can provide ongoing management strategies to minimize risks.
Can PMOS/PCOS Be Prevented or Managed?
Although there is currently no known method to completely prevent PMOS/PCOS, most symptoms associated with the condition can be effectively managed. Some of the habits to adopt include the following:
- Maintaining a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Engaging regularly in physical activities that promote overall wellness (i.e., walking and jogging)
- Maintaining an ideal weight-for-height
Working with a healthcare provider (and/or dermatologist) can optimize long-term management of the condition.
PMOS and PCOS: What's the Difference?
Aspect | PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) | PMOS (Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome) |
| Focus | Primarily focuses on the ovaries and ovarian cysts | Focuses on hormones, metabolism, and ovarian function |
| Scope | Mostly viewed from a reproductive perspective | Recognizes the condition as affecting multiple areas of the body |
| Reproductive health | Includes reproductive symptoms and fertility issues | Includes reproductive symptoms and fertility issues |
| Metabolic health | May include metabolic effects | Places greater emphasis on metabolic problems |
| Hormonal health | Includes hormonal imbalances associated with the condition | Places greater emphasis on hormonal function |
| Psychological factors | May be associated with psychological effects | Recognizes psychological factors as part of the broader condition |
| Diagnosis | Diagnosis follows established clinical criteria | Diagnosis remains the same as PCOS |
| Management | Management focuses on individual symptoms and health needs | Management remains the same as PCOS and addresses individual symptoms and health needs |
| Overall definition | Describes a condition traditionally named for its ovarian features | Provides a broader name that reflects the hormonal, metabolic, and ovarian aspects of the condition |
Why Is PMOS/PCOS Awareness Important?
Raising awareness about PMOS/PCOS will help more individuals identify their symptoms earlier than previously experienced and allow for a wider scope of care to be provided by addressing the entire individual (reproductive, metabolic, and psychological) versus just addressing the ovaries.
When Should You See a Doctor About PMOS/PCOS?
See your doctor immediately if you experience:
- Irregular menstrual cycles or skipped menses
- Increased hair growth on face or body
- Prolonged or severe acne
- Unintended weight loss/gain
- Difficulty becoming pregnant
Frequently Asked Questions About PMOS/PCOS
What is PMOS/PCOS?
What does PMOS stand for?
Why is PCOS now being called PMOS?
Is PMOS the same as PCOS?
What are the symptoms of PMOS/PCOS?
What causes PMOS/PCOS?
How is PMOS/PCOS diagnosed?
What is the treatment for PMOS/PCOS?
Can PMOS/PCOS affect fertility?
Can you get pregnant if you have PMOS/PCOS?
Can PMOS/PCOS be cured?
Does PMOS/PCOS increase the risk of diabetes?
Can you have PMOS/PCOS without ovarian cysts?
When should I see a doctor for PMOS/PCOS?
References
- Teede, H. J., Tay, C. T., Laven, J. J. E., Dokras, A., Moran, L. J., Piltonen, T. T., et al. (2023). Recommendations from the 2023 international evidence-based guideline for the assessment and management of polycystic ovary syndrome. European Journal of Endocrinology, 189(2), G43–G64.
- Teede, H. J., Misso, M. L., Costello, M. F., Dokras, A., Laven, J., Moran, L., Piltonen, T., & Norman, R. J. (2018). Recommendations from the international evidence-based guideline for the assessment and management of polycystic ovary syndrome. Human Reproduction, 33(9), 1602–1618.
- Allen, L. G., Shrikrishnapalasuriyar, N., & Rees, D. A. (2022). Long-term health outcomes in young women with polycystic ovary syndrome: A narrative review. Clinical Endocrinology, 97(2), 187–198.
- Kiconco, S., Tay, C. T., Rassie, K. L., Azziz, R., Teede, H. J., & Joham, A. E. (2022). Natural history of polycystic ovary syndrome: A systematic review of cardiometabolic outcomes from longitudinal cohort studies. Clinical Endocrinology, 96(4), 475–498.
- Al Wattar, B. H., Fisher, M., Bevington, L., Talaulikar, V., Davies, M., Conway, G., & Yasmin, E. (2021). Clinical practice guidelines on the diagnosis and management of polycystic ovary syndrome: A systematic review and quality assessment study. The Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 106(8), 2436–2446.
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