By Alex Walker
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects one in eight women. Recently a new name for the condition has been appointed to better represent what is now known to be occurring within the body. This new name, Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) is said to better describe its effects. The original term PCOS implied the presence of ovarian cysts, however research shows this isn’t actually a true feature of the condition. The absence of ovarian cysts caused some women to be misdiagnosed. It is estimated that 70% of women with this condition don’t know they have it. This new name helps to shift the conversation from fertility alone, toward overall health and wellbeing.
So what does PMOS actually mean?
Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome.
Polyendocrine – This is a condition driven by disruption across multiple hormones, not just reproductive ones.
Metabolic – Many women experience insulin resistance, altered glucose regulation, gestational diabetes, dyslipidaemia, hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
Ovarian – Ovaries still remain an important part of the condition because ovulation and reproductive function are often affected. However, ovaries are one piece of a much bigger picture.
Syndrome – PMOS presents differently from person to person with a range of possible symptoms and health impacts.
The new name directly reflects the condition’s hormonal complexity and acknowledges the strong metabolic and cardiometabolic effects. Therefore, it positions this as the whole body condition it has always been.
What are symptoms of PMOS?
Symptoms can vary widely and may include:
– Irregular or absent periods
– Difficulty ovulating
– Fertility changes
– Acne
– Hair thinning or hair loss
– Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
– Excess facial or body hair
– Insulin resistance
– Fatigue
– Anxiety or depression
What does this mean for treatment?
The name might have changed but treatment protocols are not affected by the renaming.
Treatments include:
– Individualised exercise programs
– Nutritional support
– Strategies to improve insulin sensitivity
– Stress management
– Sleep optimisation
– Hormone therapy were appropriate
– Fertility support when needed
PMOS isn’t a new condition. Moreover, it’s a name for a condition we have known as PCOS for decades. The new terminology acknowledges what research has shown along the way. That this is a whole body hormonal and metabolic condition which deserves comprehensive care. If you have been diagnosed with PCOS your condition hasn’t changed. What has changed is our understanding of the condition. This is a positive step toward better awareness, early diagnosis and improved support for women everywhere.
If any of the above symptoms resonate with you please seek guidance from your GP. If you have PMOS and are in need of help with symptom treatment, pelvic health, exercise or returning to movement a women’s health physiotherapist can help support you.
References:
Teede H, Khomami M, Morman R et al.
Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, the new name for polycystic ovary
syndrome: a multistep global consensus process
The Lancet, 2026; 0
Endocrine SocietyPolyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome: New name to
improve diagnosis and care of condition affecting 170 million women
worldwideendocrine.org · News & AdvocacyMay 2026
AJMC (American Journal of Managed Care)PCOS Renamed PMOS in Landmark
Shift Reflecting Metabolic and Endocrine Featuresajmc.comMay 2026