Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), formerly known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), affects an estimated one in eight women worldwide and more than 170 million individuals during their reproductive years alone.
The long-standing term “polycystic ovary syndrome” has increasingly been recognised as inaccurate and potentially harmful. It implies the presence of pathological ovarian cysts, which are not a defining feature of the condition, and fails to reflect the complex endocrine and metabolic disturbances that drive it.
This misnomer has contributed to:
- Delayed diagnosis
- Fragmented care
- Persistent stigma
- Confusion among clinicians, patients, researchers, and policymakers
Why the Term PMOS Is More Appropriate
The preferred terms, polyendocrine, metabolic, and ovarian, were agreed upon to better reflect the condition’s core pathophysiology.
PMOS is characterised by interacting abnormalities involving:
- Insulin signalling
- Androgen production
- Neuroendocrine hormones
- Ovarian hormones
These abnormalities can lead to a wide range of metabolic, reproductive, psychological, and dermatological manifestations.
Metabolic Manifestations
The metabolic effects of PMOS may include:
- Obesity
- Dysglycaemia
- Type 2 diabetes
- Hypertension
- Dyslipidaemia
- Metabolic liver disease
- Increased cardiovascular risk
- Reproductive Manifestations
The reproductive effects may include:
Ovulatory disturbance
- Menstrual irregularity
- Infertility
- Pregnancy complications
- Endometrial cancer
- Psychological Manifestations
PMOS may also affect psychological health and overall well-being, contributing to:
- Depression
- Anxiety
- Reduced quality of life
- Eating disorders
Dermatological Manifestations
Common dermatological manifestations include:
- Acne
- Hirsutism
- Alopecia
Supporting Better Recognition and Lifelong Care
For clinicians across disciplines, early adoption of the term polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome offers an opportunity to improve recognition of the condition’s multisystem impacts, reduce stigma, and support integrated, lifelong management.
Using the term PMOS in clinical documentation, teaching, research, and policy discussions, while explicitly acknowledging the transition from the former term PCOS, can help:
- Harmonise global practice
- Enhance patient understanding
- Strengthen clinical and public-health advocacy
- Improve recognition of this common yet historically neglected female condition
Reference: The Lancet. Volume 407, Issue 10545, p2329-2339 June 06, 2026