Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) has officially been renamed
Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS).
Why the change?
The previous name never fully reflected how complex this condition truly is. Although many people associated PCOS with ovarian cysts, a diagnosis never actually required cysts to be present, individuals only needed to meet 2 out of 3 diagnostic criteria (Irregular/absent periods,
signs of high androgens, and polycystic ovaries on ultrasound). Despite this, the name often led to confusion and contributed to many women remaining undiagnosed or misdiagnosed for years.
The term “PCOS” also placed heavy focus on the ovaries and fertility, when in reality the
condition affects multiple systems throughout the body. This often contributed to delayed diagnosis, misunderstanding, stigma, and fragmented care. For these reasons, the new name, Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) better reflects the full complexity of the condition.
So what does the new name mean?
Polyendocrine: The condition involves multiple hormone systems throughout the body.
Metabolic: linked to insulin resistance, weight regulation, diabetes risk, and cardiovascular health.
Ovarian: Highlights that it still affects ovulation and reproductive health.
Syndrome: A syndrome is a collection of symptoms and health impacts that can vary from person to person.
What symptoms are associated with PMOS?
It is important to note that the condition itself has not changed, only the name has. Symptoms may include:
- Irregular or absent periods
- Acne
- Excess hair growth
- Hair thinning
- Fertility challenges
- Weight and metabolic concerns
- Insulin resistance
- Mental health impacts such as anxiety and depression
It’s important to note, not everyone will experience the same symptoms, and symptom severity can vary greatly between individuals.
So what does the name change mean for those with the condition?
While the management and treatment of the condition will remain the same, the name change is an important step forward in improving awareness and understanding of PMOS.
By recognising the condition as more than just an ovarian or fertility disorder, healthcare providers can take a more holistic and multidisciplinary approach to care. The updated name is also expected to improve early diagnosis rates, reduce stigma and confusion, and better reflect the lived experiences of those affected by the condition.
Ultimately, the change acknowledges that PMOS is a complex hormonal and metabolic
condition, not simply a reproductive one.
References:
https://www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/health/conditionsandtreatments/polycystic-ovarian-syndrome-pcos
https://www1.racgp.org.au/newsgp/clinical/pcos-officially-renamed-polyendocrine-metabolic-ov
