PMOS (Formerly PCOS): Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment

Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), formerly known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), is a systemic metabolic disorder affecting up to 13% of women ages 15 to 49 worldwide. According to the Endocrine Society, the condition occurs when ovaries produce elevated levels of androgens, leading to irregular periods, weight gain, and fertility challenges.

The Endocrine Society and other international experts officially renamed the condition in May 2026. This change reflects PMOS as a systemic metabolic disorder rather than one focused solely on the ovaries.

Why was PCOS renamed to PMOS?

The transition to “polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome” emphasizes that the condition is a systemic metabolic issue. It involves the production of elevated androgens—male sex hormones like testosterone—which typically exist in higher amounts in men than women.

High androgen levels interfere with a woman’s reproductive and overall health. This hormonal imbalance can lead to complications including heart disease, high blood pressure, and endometrial cancer, according to the source material.

How is PMOS diagnosed?

A doctor diagnoses PMOS when a patient meets at least two of three specific criteria. These include irregular menstrual cycles, high androgen levels, and the presence of polycystic ovaries, which can be identified via ultrasound.

There isn’t a single test for the condition. Doctors use physical exams to look for acne and weight gain, pelvic exams, blood tests for hormone levels, and pelvic ultrasounds to check the uterine lining and ovarian cysts.

What are the symptoms and complications?

Common signs include weight gain around the stomach, unpredictable periods, and difficulty conceiving naturally. Other physical symptoms involve acne, thinning scalp hair, and hirsutism, which is excess hair growth on the face, chest, and lower abdomen.

Insulin resistance may manifest as skin tags or darkening of the skin, known as acanthosis nigricans. Some women experience mood disorders, including anxiety and depression, as well as sleep problems like snoring or frequent waking.

The condition increases the risk of several serious health issues. According to the source, these include gestational diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, and high cholesterol.

How is PMOS managed and treated?

There’s currently no cure for PMOS, but medications and lifestyle changes manage the symptoms. Combined hormonal birth control pills help regulate periods and reduce acne for women not trying to become pregnant.

For those seeking pregnancy, doctors may prescribe clomiphene, letrozole, metformin, or gonadotropins to start ovulation. In vitro fertilization (IVF) is a possible next step if medications fail.

Lifestyle modifications are central to treatment. A 10 percent loss in body weight can help regulate periods and improve fertility. Health experts suggest 150 to 300 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise or 75 to 150 minutes of vigorous exercise weekly.

Dietary strategies include eating omega-3s, berries, broccoli, and whole grains to lower inflammation. Patients are advised to limit processed foods and simple carbohydrates to prevent insulin spikes.

How does PMOS affect different ethnic groups?

Research indicates PMOS presents differently across racial and ethnic backgrounds. Middle Eastern, Indian, Mediterranean, and South Asian women tend to have higher rates of excess hair growth than white or East Asian populations.

Hispanic women with PMOS may face a higher risk of postpartum depression and higher fasting insulin levels. Black women were found to have higher systolic blood pressure and fasting insulin levels compared to white women.

While Asian women with PMOS show lower rates of obesity than other groups, they are more likely to develop diabetes than white women.

What happens next for patients?

Patients may see their menstrual cycles become more regular as they approach menopause. However, others could continue experiencing PMOS symptoms alongside menopause symptoms.

Risks for heart attacks and diabetes may increase with age. Regular yearly checkups and screenings are recommended to prevent these complications from worsening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can PMOS be prevented?
No, PMOS cannot be prevented. However, symptoms and complications can be managed through medications, healthy lifestyle choices, and overall health management.

What is ovarian drilling?
Ovarian drilling is a rare outpatient surgical procedure used when medications fail to induce ovulation. A surgeon destroys some ovarian follicles and androgen-producing tissue to help improve follicle maturation.

Which supplements may help manage PMOS?
Research suggests Vitamin D may improve insulin metabolism, while Vitamin E may affect androgen hormones. Other potentially useful therapies include folic acid to reduce body mass index, selenium for insulin levels, and probiotics for gut health.

Do you think the change in name to PMOS will help more women get diagnosed earlier?