Diagnosis & Information/Condition Information

PCOS Renamed PMOS To Reflect Hormone and Metabolic Effects

Written by Ted Samson

Posted on June 1, 2026

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Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has a new name: polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS). The change was announced on May 12 by an international group of researchers, healthcare professionals, and patient advocacy organizations led by Monash University and supported by more than 50 global organizations, including the Endocrine Society.

Advocates say the new name better reflects the experiences of people living with the condition. The term “polycystic ovary syndrome” suggested that the condition mainly involves ovarian cysts. The new term more accurately describes PMOS as a condition that affects hormones and metabolism, including how the body uses and stores energy.

Health experts hope clearer language will lead to faster diagnoses, less stigma, stronger research efforts, and better long-term care worldwide.

Reframing the Conversation Around the Condition

Rachel Morman, chair of Verity, a United Kingdom-based nonprofit for people with PMOS, said the new name better reflects the condition’s complexity. “It is fantastic that the new name now leads with hormones and recognizes the metabolic dimension of the condition,” Morman said. “This shift will reframe the conversation and demand that it is taken as seriously as the long-term, complex health condition it is.”

The decision followed a 14-year international effort that included more than 22,000 survey responses and workshops with people who have the condition and with healthcare professionals worldwide.

Why Was the Name Changed?

PMOS is a hormone-related condition that causes symptoms such as irregular periods, acne, excess hair growth, fertility challenges, insulin resistance, and weight changes. Symptoms and severity can vary widely from person to person.

The main reasons behind the name change include:

The old name was scientifically inaccurate — Researchers say the condition doesn’t actually involve an increase in abnormal ovarian cysts, even though the former name suggested otherwise.
The condition affects more than the ovaries — PMOS highlights that the condition can affect hormones, metabolism, mental health, skin, and reproductive health.
The previous name may have delayed diagnosis — People living with the condition reported confusion and delays in getting answers or treatment because the former name was misleading.
Advocates wanted to reduce the stigma — Organizers said the name’s focus on ovaries and reproduction may have increased stigma in some cultures.
Researchers hope the new name improves awareness and funding — Health experts said the old name made it harder to explain how serious the condition can be and to secure research funding.

What Happens Next for People Living With PMOS?

For people living with the condition, the name change does not alter symptoms, treatment options, or current medical care. However, advocates hope it will lead to better recognition of the condition’s complexity and long-term health effects.

The transition from PCOS to PMOS will happen gradually over the next three years. During that time, people may still see both names used in clinics, research studies, health apps, and educational materials.

By 2028, the new name is expected to be added to international medical guidelines for the condition.

If you have questions about what the new name means for your diagnosis or care plan, talk with your doctor or healthcare team. They can help explain how the condition may affect your health and which treatment or monitoring options may be right for you.

Join the Conversation

On myPCOSteam, people living with polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) share their experiences with symptoms, treatments, and daily life with the condition.

What do you think about the change from PCOS to PMOS? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

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