If you have been diagnosed with PCOS, or suspect you may have it, there is an important update to know. The condition has officially been renamed Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome, or PMOS.
The new name was adopted in May 2026 to better reflect how the condition affects the body. Rather than focusing mainly on the ovaries and the misleading idea of ovarian “cysts”, PMOS recognises the broader hormonal, metabolic, reproductive and mental health effects associated with the condition.
Here is what the change means and what women should know about symptoms, diagnosis, fertility and treatment.
Why Did the Name Change from PCOS to PMOS?
For decades, the condition was known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, or PCOS. The name referred to the multiple small follicles that may be seen on the ovaries during an ultrasound. However, these follicles are not the same as conventional ovarian cysts, and not every woman with the condition has this ovarian appearance.
The former name could therefore be confusing. It suggested that the condition was primarily an ovarian problem when it can affect several systems throughout the body.
The PMOS specialists at Fertility North explain that the former name did not adequately represent the wider hormonal and metabolic changes that may be involved.
The updated name, Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome, places greater emphasis on the endocrine system, which produces and regulates hormones, as well as the metabolic and reproductive effects of the condition.
The change is intended to support clearer conversations between patients and healthcare professionals. It does not mean that women previously diagnosed with PCOS have a different condition, and the existing evidence-based recommendations for diagnosis and care still apply.
What Is PMOS?
PMOS is a common, long-term hormonal condition that affects about one in eight women of reproductive age worldwide. It can influence menstrual cycles, ovulation, skin, weight, metabolic health, mental health and fertility.
Women with PMOS may have higher levels of androgens, a group of hormones that includes testosterone. Women naturally produce androgens, but higher levels can interfere with regular ovulation and contribute to symptoms such as acne, excess facial or body hair and thinning hair on the scalp.
PMOS can look different from one person to another. One woman may mainly experience irregular periods, while another may seek help because of acne, difficulty conceiving or unexpected weight changes. This variation is one reason the condition can sometimes take time to diagnose.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Symptoms of PMOS may include:
- Irregular, infrequent or absent periods
- Difficulty conceiving due to irregular ovulation
- Excess facial or body hair
- Acne or oily skin
- Thinning hair on the scalp
- Weight gain or difficulty managing weight
- Anxiety, depression or concerns about body image
- Darkened areas of skin
- Tiredness or sleep difficulties
Not every woman will experience all these symptoms. Some may have only mild signs, while others experience symptoms that significantly affect their health or quality of life.
Insulin resistance is also common among women with PMOS. This means the body does not respond to insulin as effectively as it should. Over time, it may contribute to a higher risk of conditions such as type 2 diabetes.
Individual risk varies, so having PMOS does not mean you will automatically develop diabetes or cardiovascular disease. Regular health checks can help identify and manage relevant risk factors.
How PMOS Can Affect Fertility
PMOS can make it harder to become pregnant, but it does not mean pregnancy is impossible.
The hormonal changes associated with PMOS may cause ovulation to happen irregularly or not at all. This can make it difficult to predict the fertile window and may reduce the number of opportunities for natural conception.
Treatment depends on your symptoms, health and personal goals. For some women, individualised changes to nutrition, physical activity, sleep and general wellbeing may support metabolic and reproductive health.
Others may benefit from medical treatment to encourage ovulation. Assisted reproductive treatments, including IVF, may also be considered when appropriate.
The right approach will depend on factors such as age, ovulation, overall health and whether there are any additional fertility concerns affecting either partner.
How Is PMOS Diagnosed?
There is no single test that confirms PMOS in every woman.
Diagnosis generally involves discussing your symptoms and menstrual history, checking for physical or biochemical signs of higher androgen levels and ruling out other conditions that could cause similar symptoms.
Blood tests may be used to assess hormone levels and metabolic health. An ultrasound may also be recommended in some adults to check the ovaries for multiple immature follicles.
An ultrasound is not required in every case, and it is not usually recommended as the main diagnostic test for adolescents or women under 20.
Because symptoms vary, reaching a diagnosis can sometimes take time. Keeping a record of your menstrual cycles, symptoms and any changes you have noticed may help when speaking with your doctor.
Getting the Right Support
If you think you may have PMOS, a GP is usually a good first point of contact. They can assess your symptoms, arrange initial tests and refer you to a gynaecologist, endocrinologist, fertility specialist, dietitian or mental health professional when needed.
Treatment should be based on the symptoms that matter most to you. This could include regulating periods, managing acne or hair growth, supporting fertility, improving metabolic health or addressing anxiety and low mood.
PMOS is a complex condition, but it is manageable. The new name provides a clearer picture of how it can affect the whole body rather than focusing only on the ovaries.
If your periods are irregular, your symptoms are affecting your wellbeing or you are having difficulty conceiving, speak with a qualified healthcare professional. Getting clear information and individualised support can help you make informed decisions about your health.
