PCOS Is Now PMOS: Understanding the New Name and What It Means for Women's Health
In May 2026, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) was officially renamed Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) following an international consensus process involving more than 50 medical and patient organisations worldwide. The change was led by Australian endocrinologist Professor Helena Teede and researchers at Monash University. The new name reflects our evolving understanding of the condition as a complex hormonal and metabolic disorder rather than simply an ovarian condition.
Importantly, while the name has changed, the condition itself, its symptoms, and diagnostic criteria remain the same.
What Is PMOS?
Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS), formerly known as PCOS, is one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting women of reproductive age, impacting approximately 1 in 8 women worldwide.
PMOS is characterised by a combination of:
● Hormonal imbalances
● Irregular or absent ovulation
● Increased androgen (male hormone) levels
● Metabolic dysfunction, including insulin resistance
● Reproductive, skin, weight and psychological symptoms
PMOS is now recognised as a whole-body condition affecting multiple systems, including reproductive, endocrine, metabolic, cardiovascular, dermatological and psychological health.
Why Was PCOS Renamed PMOS?
For many years, healthcare professionals and women living with the condition felt that the term "Polycystic Ovary Syndrome" was inaccurate and misleading.
The term suggested that:
● Ovarian cysts were the primary feature of the condition.
● The condition only affected the ovaries.
● Women without "cysts" could not have the condition.
In reality:
● The "cysts" seen on ultrasound are actually immature ovarian follicles, not true cysts.
● Many women with PCOS do not have polycystic ovaries.
● Many women with polycystic ovaries do not have the syndrome.
● The condition affects far more than reproductive health.
Research found that the previous name contributed to delayed diagnosis, confusion among healthcare providers, stigma, and fragmented care.
The new name better reflects the underlying biology:
Polyendocrine
The condition involves multiple hormonal systems, including insulin, reproductive hormones and androgen regulation.
Metabolic
Many women experience insulin resistance, altered glucose metabolism, increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and metabolic syndrome.
Ovarian
The ovaries remain an important part of the condition because ovulation and reproductive function are commonly affected.
Syndrome
PMOS is a collection of symptoms and clinical features that vary from person to person. The name change aims to improve awareness, diagnosis, research funding and holistic management of the condition.
Common Symptoms of PMOS
Symptoms can vary significantly between women. Common symptoms include:
● Irregular or absent periods
● Difficulty conceiving
● Acne
● Excess facial or body hair (hirsutism)
● Hair thinning or hair loss
● Weight gain or difficulty managing weight
● Fatigue
● Mood changes, anxiety and depression
● Insulin resistance
● Sleep disturbances
● Darkened skin patches (acanthosis nigricans)
Not all women experience every symptom.
Why Do These Symptoms Occur?
Insulin Resistance
Up to 70% of women with PMOS experience insulin resistance. When the body becomes less responsive to insulin, the pancreas produces more insulin to compensate. Elevated insulin levels stimulate the ovaries to produce excess androgens, contributing to many PMOS symptoms.
Elevated Androgens
Higher androgen levels may cause:
● Acne
● Excess hair growth
● Scalp hair thinning
● Irregular ovulation
Ovulatory Dysfunction
Disrupted ovulation can result in:
● Irregular menstrual cycles
● Absent periods
● Fertility challenges
Chronic Low-Grade Inflammation
Emerging research suggests inflammation may contribute to metabolic dysfunction and long-term health risks associated with PMOS.
Medical Management of PMOS
There is currently no cure for PMOS; however, symptoms can be effectively managed. Treatment depends on an individual's symptoms and goals.
Hormonal Contraception
The oral contraceptive pill is commonly used to regulate menstrual cycles and reduce androgen-related symptoms.
Metformin
Metformin may be prescribed to improve insulin sensitivity and support metabolic health.
Fertility Treatments
Women trying to conceive may be referred for ovulation induction medications or fertility treatment.
Weight Management and Lifestyle Intervention
Lifestyle management remains a cornerstone of treatment and can improve both reproductive and metabolic outcomes.
Monitoring Long-Term Health Risks
Women with PMOS have an increased risk of:
● Type 2 diabetes
● Cardiovascular disease
● Sleep apnoea
● Pregnancy complications
● Mental health conditions
Regular medical follow-up is recommended.
How Can Women's Health Physiotherapy Help?
Physiotherapy plays an important role within the multidisciplinary management of PMOS.
Individualised Exercise Prescription
Exercise is one of the most evidence-based interventions for PMOS. Regular physical activity can:
● Improve insulin sensitivity
● Support healthy weight management
● Improve cardiovascular health
● Reduce inflammation
● Improve energy levels
● Enhance mental wellbeing
A physiotherapist can create an exercise program tailored to your goals, symptoms and fitness level.
Strength Training
Current evidence supports resistance training as an effective strategy for improving body composition, metabolic health and insulin sensitivity in women with PMOS.
Many women benefit from progressive strength training under professional guidance.
Pelvic Health Support
Women with PMOS may also experience:
● Pelvic pain
● Painful periods
● Bladder symptoms
● Sexual health concerns
A women's health physiotherapist can assess and manage these issues as part of a comprehensive treatment approach.
Supporting Sustainable Lifestyle Change
One of the biggest challenges for women with PMOS is finding a long-term approach to exercise and health that feels achievable.
Physiotherapists can help develop realistic, sustainable movement habits that support long-term health outcomes.
The Takeaway
The transition from PCOS to PMOS represents more than a name change. It reflects a growing understanding that this condition is a complex endocrine and metabolic disorder affecting the whole body, not just the ovaries.
While the diagnosis and treatment recommendations remain unchanged, the new terminology aims to improve awareness, reduce stigma and encourage more comprehensive care.
If you have PMOS or suspect you may be experiencing symptoms, seeking support from your GP, endocrinologist, dietitian and women's health physiotherapist can help you develop a personalised management plan and improve your long-term health.
References:
● Teede, H.J. et al. (2026) Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, the new name for polycystic ovary syndrome: a multistep global consensus process. The Lancet. Available at: published online 12 May 2026.
● Endocrine Society (2026) Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome: New name to improve diagnosis and care of condition affecting 170 million women worldwide. Washington, DC.
● Teede, H.J., Tay, C.T., Joham, A.E. et al. (2024) Summary of the 2023 international evidence-based guideline for the assessment and management of polycystic ovary syndrome: an Australian perspective. Medical Journal of Australia, 221(4), pp.171–177.
● Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation (2023) International Evidence-Based Guideline for the Assessment and Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome 2023. Melbourne: Monash University.
● Healthdirect Australia (2026) PCOS to PMOS name change: what you need to know. Australian Government Healthdirect