Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), a common female condition, is now being globally recognized as “PMOS.” Patients, doctors, and advocates alike strongly believe its new name will improve diagnostic rates and treatment outcomes and lead to a greater overall understanding of this condition.
Here’s why the PCOS name change is important, and what it means for women who have this condition.
What Is PCOS?
PCOS is a condition that affects the hormones, metabolism, and ovaries in one in eight women of childbearing age. It is generally caused by having high levels of insulin and/or androgens.
Common symptoms of PCOS include weight gain, acne, infertility, and increased hair growth on the face and chin. Combining PCOS therapy with healthy lifestyle changes can often help reduce symptoms.
Why Is the Name PCOS Being Reconsidered?
The name “polycystic ovarian syndrome” can be misleading for this condition, as not all cases necessarily involve both cysts and ovaries. For instance, many women with PCOS do not have cysts.
General misunderstandings about PCOS over the years have led to stigma and confusion around this chronic condition, as well as treatment delays.
What Are the Limitations of the Term PCOS?
Advocates believe the name “PCOS” falls short of recognizing all possible effects of this condition.
In addition to increasing the risk for ovarian cysts, PCOS also affects metabolism and multiple hormone systems—not just the reproductive system. Its original name fails to capture these effects and can often contribute to missed diagnoses.
What Does PMOS Stand For?
“PMOS” stands for Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome.
This name change has been officially endorsed by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM) and 56 other patient organizations and societies worldwide.
Why Are Experts Proposing the Name PMOS?
Experts hope that changing “PCOS” to “PMOS” will increase awareness about this condition and pave the way for better care and treatment outcomes.
Other reasons experts are proposing the name change:
- To reduce stigma and confusion about PMOS
- To help patients and providers fully understand this condition
- To emphasize how PMOS affects metabolism
- To better reflect this complex condition
How Does PMOS Better Reflect the Condition?
ASRM and other experts agree that the name “PCOS” doesn’t fully acknowledge its hormonal and metabolic effects.
PMOS, on the other hand, provides a more accurate reflection of the condition, given that it includes the terms “endocrine” and “metabolic.”
- “Polyendocrine” indicates that the condition affects multiple hormone systems.
- “Metabolic” emphasizes its effects on metabolism, including insulin resistance and diabetes.
- “Ovarian” recognizes how this condition involves the ovaries.
Is PCOS Officially Being Renamed to PMOS?
Yes—PCOS is now officially known as PMOS.
The name change was primarily led by Professor Helena Teede, Director of Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation at Monash University and lead author of the Lancet study announcing the change.
The renaming of PCOS took 14 years of collaboration among endocrinologists, medical experts, and patients living with PCOS who shared personal insights about the condition and advocated for more accurate representation.
What Does This Change Mean for Patients?
PMOS is a complex, chronic condition that requires long-term care. Its new name encourages a greater understanding of how it can be treated as a whole.
The renaming of PCOS offers the following benefits for patients:
- Earlier intervention and treatment
- Higher rates of accurate diagnoses
- Reduced stigma
- Enhanced communication
- Increased awareness
- More holistic treatment plans
A holistic PCOS doctor can discuss appropriate therapies for you based on your symptoms and unique health status.
How Is PCOS/PMOS Diagnosed and Managed?
PMOS may be diagnosed through a physical exam, review of medical history, blood tests, and ultrasound.
PMOS treatment often involves reducing inflammation and addressing specific hormonal imbalances, often with guidance from a functional medicine doctor who can develop a personalized treatment plan just for you.
If you are living with PMOS or have PMOS symptoms, SouthPark Functional Medicine can help. Dr. Mahtani, our functional medicine doctor in Charlotte, NC, can help you address the root causes of PMOS and improve your quality of life.
Contact us at 980-414-4600 or at reception@southparkfm.com to learn more about your treatment options.
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