Not just ovaries—new name for PCOS reflects the condition's multisystem nature

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by Hilary Brown, University of Kentucky

edited by Lisa Lock, reviewed by Andrew Zinin

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An estimated 1 in 8 women live with polycystic ovarian syndrome, commonly referred to as PCOS. However, the name is a bit of a misnomer; it suggests that the condition affects only the ovaries. In actuality, the condition is a broader metabolic and hormonal disorder. After years of research and patient advocacy, a recent report in The Lancet announced a new designation to reflect the condition's whole-body impact: polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS).

Kourtney T. Grant, M.D., assistant professor in the Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology in the University of Kentucky College of Medicine, discusses the reason for the name change, and what it means for the millions who live with the symptoms of PMOS.

What is PMOS and what's the reason for the name change?

PMOS, formerly known as PCOS, is a common condition that can impact a patient in many ways, including reproductive care, cardiovascular health, dermatologic conditions and even mental health. The new name highlights that PCOS is a misnomer and that ovarian cysts are not the primary finding in this condition, but an array of underlying metabolic dysregulations. The updated name encourages providers and patients to think about the condition as whole-body, not just the reproductive system.

What are the symptoms of PMOS?

PMOS can affect several of the body's systems, and symptoms may vary widely. Common symptoms include:

  • Missed or irregular periods
  • Fertility challenges
  • Skin changes such as acne, oily skin, or excess facial and body hair, or thinning hair on the scalp
  • Insulin resistance and increased risk of type 2 diabetes
  • Difficulty with weight maintenance or loss
  • An association with high cholesterol and high blood pressure

What was misleading about the name "polycystic ovarian syndrome"?

Despite the name PCOS, the "cysts" seen in this condition are not the typical large and painful ovarian cysts that we think of. Due to abnormal endocrine signaling in PMOS, the ovaries recruit small follicles that then do not mature and ovulate properly, leading to an increased number of follicles that we can see on ultrasound. The name PCOS has contributed to confusion in both diagnosis and patient understanding. The new name aims to correct that misconception and more accurately describe what is happening in the body.

Does the name change affect how the condition is diagnosed?

Not right away. Diagnostic criteria remain the same. Providers will continue evaluating irregular or absent menstrual cycles, ultrasound findings and signs of elevated androgens such as testosterone. However, the shift in terminology is intended to promote earlier recognition of symptoms, encourage a more comprehensive evaluation beyond reproductive health and help patients get answers and care faster.

Why is the metabolic aspect so important?

Experts say the metabolic component is central to understanding the condition. It is associated with long-term health risks beyond the reproductive system, including diabetes and cardiovascular issues. Recognizing these risks allows for more proactive and preventive care. The name change emphasizes that PMOS should be treated as a system-wide condition.

What treatment options are available?

Care is individualized and focuses on managing both symptoms and long-term risks. Treatment may include:

  • Therapies to help regulate periods and decrease the risk of endometrial cancers
  • Options to help achieve pregnancy
  • Strategies to address symptoms like acne or excess hair
  • Treatment for insulin resistance or diabetes
  • Interventions to help with weight management

As a multi-system condition, PMOS requires coordinated, multidisciplinary care from specialists such as gynecology, endocrinology, dermatology and internal medicine—experts who emphasize that treatment should be holistic and address the full-body impact of the condition.

How did patient advocacy impact the name change, and when will they see the update in their medical records?

Patient voices were a key part of the process. Researchers gathered feedback directly from people living with the condition. The goal was to use language that better reflects lived experiences, reduces stigma and improves understanding and communication.

The transition to the new name will take time. Experts anticipate a multi-year rollout, as updates are needed in medical coding, insurance information and patients' electronic health records, such as UK HealthCare's MyChart.

For those experiencing the symptoms associated with PMOS, what should they do?

The key to the diagnosis and treatment of any condition—not just PMOS—starts with regular visits with a primary care provider. Since PMOS affects many of the body's systems, your provider can help put together a team of experts to address the broad spectrum of symptoms. If you are experiencing any of the symptoms above, contact your provider and ask them about testing for PMOS.

Journal information: The Lancet

Key medical concepts

Polycystic Ovary SyndromeCardiovascular DiseasesDiabetes Type 2Cancer, Endometrial

Clinical categories

Obstetrics & gynecologyWomen's healthEndocrinologyCommon illnesses & Prevention Provided by University of Kentucky Who's behind this story?

Lisa Lock

BA art history, MA material culture. Former museum editor, paramedic, and transplant coordinator. Editing for Science X since 2021. Full profile →

Andrew Zinin

Master's in physics with research experience. Long-time science news enthusiast. Plays key role in Science X's editorial success. Full profile →

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