PCOS has a new name: What you need to know about PMOS

Nothing in this article is or should be construed as medical advice; for any medical questions, consult your healthcare professional.

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has a new name: Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS). This change reflects a better understanding of the condition and how it affects the whole body, not just the ovaries. Here’s what the new name means and what it does (and doesn’t) change for you.

What changed?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is now being referred to by a new name: Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS).¹

PMOS is a common condition that affects women’s hormones, metabolism and reproductive health.¹ The new name reflects this broader impact. Previously, the term “PCOS” placed too much emphasis on the ovaries, which was misleading, as it did not fully capture how the condition affects the rest of the body.¹

This broader perspective is important, as the previous terminology may have contributed to stigma, delays in diagnosis, and challenges in advancing research and care. The new name highlights the condition’s metabolic, hormonal, and reproductive components more accurately.¹

How will this change be introduced?

Like many updates in medicine, this change will take time to be adopted across healthcare, research, and everyday use. Experts have recommended a gradual transition period supported by education and international alignment, rather than an immediate change. During this time, you may still hear both terms being used: PCOS and PMOS but remember they refer to the same condition.

At Clearblue®, we will gradually introduce the new name (PMOS) across our communications and materials. We will continue to: 

• Provide clear, evidence based information to help you understand the condition
• Support awareness and education for women 
• Align our content with the latest clinical guidelines and global recommendations

Our goal is to make this transition as simple and supportive as possible, so you can feel informed and confident, regardless of which term you see or hear.

How common is PMOS?

PMOS affects approximately 1 in 8 women, which equates to more than 170 million women worldwide, despite its prevalence, up to 70% of affected individuals may remain undiagnosed.¹

How does PMOS affect more than just reproductive health? 

As mentioned before, PMOS is not only a reproductive condition, it can also affect many aspects of health.

PMOS is linked to changes in how the body uses energy and processes hormones. This can increase the risk of:¹ 

• Weight gain
• Blood sugar problems
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Changes in cholesterol levels (higher “bad” cholesterol and triglycerides, and lower “good” cholesterol)
• Heart disease
• Sleep apnea

PMOS also affects reproductive health. It can impact the menstrual cycle and fertility, which may lead to:¹ 

• Irregular or missed periods
• Irregular ovulation 
• Difficulty getting pregnant
• Pregnancy complications
• Increased risk of certain cancers

In addition, PMOS can impact overall wellbeing and how you feel day to day. Some people experience:¹

• Depression or low mood
• Anxiety 
• Reduced quality of life
• Other physical symptoms like acne, hair thinning, and excess hair growth

If the condition is broader, why was it called “PCOS”? 

The original name, PCOS, was based on the appearance of the ovaries. Many individuals were noted to have multiple small “cysts” on ultrasound.¹

However, these are not true cysts. They:^2,3

• Are not fluid-filled
• Do not grow or rupture like typical cysts
• Do not require surgical removal

Instead, they are immature follicles that have not developed enough to release an egg.^1-3

When PCOS was first described, these follicles were thought to be the cause of the condition. We now know they are just one possible feature, and not everyone with the condition has them.

Does the name change affect the diagnosis?

No. The way PMOS is diagnosed will stay the same.

After excluding other possible conditions, PMOS (formerly PCOS) is diagnosed by a healthcare professional when at least two of the following are present:⁴

• Irregular or absent menstrual periods (oligo-anovulation)
• Signs or symptoms of elevated hormones called androgens (such as excess facial or body hair, scalp hair thinning, acne, or oily skin), or high testosterone levels in blood tests
• Polycystic ovaries seen on ultrasound or elevated anti-Müllerian hormone (AMH) levels

Will the name change affect treatment?

No. The way PMOS is treated will stay the same.

Treatment continues to focus on managing the symptoms that matter most to each individual. Because PMOS can look different from person to person, care is personalized.

Many symptoms can be effectively managed through a combination of:⁴

• Medical treatment
• Lifestyle approaches, including healthy nutrition and regular physical activity

The name change is intended to improve understanding of the condition, support earlier diagnosis, and encourage better care and research, not to change how the condition is treated.

What does this mean for me?

• PMOS is the same condition previously known as PCOS
• If you were diagnosed with PCOS, your diagnosis has not changed, only the name of the diagnosis
• Your care and treatment remain the same unless indicated otherwise by a healthcare provider

Where can I learn more or find support?

There are several trusted organizations that provide reliable information, resources, and community support:

PCOS Challenge: The National Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Association

A leading US nonprofit dedicated to raising awareness and supporting individuals with PMOS (previously PCOS). You can find:

• Educational resources on symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment
• Online support programs and lifestyle guidance (nutrition, fitness, mental health)
• Patient stories and community initiatives
• Webinars, events, and advocacy updates

PCOS Awareness Association (PCOSAA)

A nonprofit focused on education, awareness, and community support for individuals living with PMOS. You can find:

• Easy-to-understand educational materials
• Opportunities for peer support and connection
• Awareness campaigns and ways to get involved
• Tools to support day-to-day health management