PCOS is now PMOS: What the new name means for your fertility and wellbeing

Caught off-guard by this week’s name change? You’re not alone. One of the biggest updates in women’s health in decades is the renaming of PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) to PMOS (Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome). 

It’s the same condition, but the understanding of it has changed dramatically.

What does PMOS stand for?

PMOS stands for Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome. The new name reflects what experts now understand more clearly: this is not just a reproductive condition, but a complex hormonal, metabolic and endocrine disorder affecting multiple systems in the body.

For years, the condition was known as PCOS, or Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. However, that name has now been officially retired in favor of PMOS, following a major global consensus published in The Lancet. Read up here, for the full text and deep-dive. 

 Why the rename?

The name change from PCOS to PMOS happened because experts believe the old name was misleading.

Despite the term “polycystic ovary,” many people with the condition don’t actually have ovarian cysts. What appear as “cysts” on ultrasound are often immature follicles, not true cysts. This has contributed to decades of confusion, misdiagnosis and delayed treatment.

Researchers and organizations, including global endocrine groups, argued that the condition was being reduced to a problem of the ovaries, when in reality it affects much more: metabolism, hormones, mental health, skin and fertility. 

A 14-year global collaboration involving clinicians, researchers and patient groups led to the new term PMOS, which better reflects the full-body nature of the condition.

Tell me more about PMOS

It’s all about that ‘C’. 

PCOS is now called PMOS because the “cyst-focused” name is no longer considered scientifically accurate.

Experts wanted a term that highlights:

• Endocrine (hormonal) imbalance
• Metabolic dysfunction (including insulin resistance)
• Ovarian involvement (but not limited to it)

The new name also helps reduce stigma. We’ve previously treated PCOS as simply a fertility or ovarian issue, when in fact it is a systemic condition affecting overall wellbeing.

 Is the name change being taken seriously?

Yes. PCOS is now officially being transitioned to PMOS in medical literature and clinical guidelines. However, the shift will take time. Many healthcare systems are expected to fully adopt the new terminology over the next few years.

Importantly, nothing about diagnosis criteria or symptoms has changed, only the name.

What are the symptoms of PMOS?

Symptoms remain the same as PCOS and can vary widely. Common features include:

• Irregular or absent periods
• Ovulation issues
• Acne or oily skin
• Excess hair growth (hirsutism)
• Hair thinning on the scalp
• Weight changes or difficulty losing weight
• Fertility challenges

PMOS is also associated with broader health risks such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular issues and mental health challenges like anxiety or low mood.

How to treat PMOS

There is currently no cure for PMOS, but the condition can be well managed with effective support and timely diagnosis. Treatment focuses on symptoms, hormonal balance and long-term health protection.

Common approaches include:

• Hormonal contraceptives to regulate cycles
• Medications to support ovulation if trying to conceive
• Lifestyle support (nutrition, movement and insulin regulation)
• Fertility support where needed
• Emerging metabolic medications

For those exploring fertility, it is still absolutely possible to conceive naturally with PMOS/PCOS, though it may take longer or require support depending on individual hormone patterns. 

Interested in this topic? Open our deep dive covering all sorts of questions and aspects related to conceiving naturally with PCOS.

 PMOS, fertility and wellbeing

From a fertility perspective, PMOS can affect ovulation, egg quality and hormonal balance, but it does not mean pregnancy is impossible.

Many people with PMOS go on to conceive naturally, while others may need medical support depending on symptoms and hormone levels. 

From a wellbeing standpoint, PMOS is increasingly understood as a whole-body condition. It can affect energy, mood, metabolism, skin and long-term health risks, meaning care needs to be holistic, not just reproductive.

Wrapping it up

So, what does PMOS mean in simple terms?

It’s the new name for PCOS, designed to better reflect the condition’s true nature: a complex endocrine and metabolic condition that affects far more than the ovaries.

While the name is new, the lived experience for many people remains familiar. The hope is that PMOS will lead to earlier diagnosis, better treatment and more compassionate, accurate care. 

We’re all for that, whatever the name. 

For those navigating symptoms or fertility questions, it’s important to remember, this is a well-researched and treatable condition. Understanding it is the first step toward better support.

On your reading list

• Will a hysterectomy cure PCOS? The short answer is no (and this is why)
• Does berberine help with fertility? From PCOS support to egg health, here’s what we know
• Why your PCOS skincare routine needs more than a two-step approach