PCOS, recently proposed to be renamed PMOS, is a hormonal and metabolic condition that can affect periods, fertility, weight, skin health, and insulin function. Learn about its symptoms, causes, diagnosis, treatment options, and lifestyle strategies for better health outcomes.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal and metabolic conditions affecting women during their reproductive years. It can affect menstrual cycles, fertility, metabolism, skin health, weight, and emotional wellbeing.
Recent international medical discussions have proposed a new name for PCOS—Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS). Experts suggested this name because the condition affects much more than the ovaries alone. It also involves hormonal, metabolic, and insulin-related dysfunction that can affect long-term health.
Although PCOS remains the most commonly used medical term worldwide, awareness of the proposed term PMOS is gradually increasing. Millions of women live with PCOS/PMOS, yet many remain undiagnosed for years.
Understanding the condition, its symptoms, causes, and treatment options can support earlier diagnosis and improve long-term health management.
PCOS is a complex hormonal and metabolic disorder that affects ovarian function and hormone balance.
Women with PCOS often experience imbalances involving:
These hormonal changes can interfere with normal ovulation and menstrual cycles.
Despite the name “Polycystic Ovary Syndrome,” the condition is not simply caused by ovarian cysts. In many cases, ultrasound scans may show multiple small immature follicles in the ovaries rather than true pathological cysts.
Because the condition affects multiple body systems, international experts recently proposed the name “Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS)” to better reflect its broader hormonal, metabolic, and endocrine effects.
PCOS commonly begins during adolescence or early adulthood, although symptoms may appear gradually over time.
According to global estimates, PCOS affects around 1 in 8 women worldwide and is one of the most common causes of ovulatory infertility.
Symptoms can vary from person to person. Some women experience mild symptoms, while others may develop more significant hormonal or metabolic complications.
Common symptoms include:
Many women with PCOS/PMOS also experience insulin resistance, a condition in which the body cannot use insulin effectively. Over time, this may increase the risk of:
The exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood. However, researchers believe that several factors may contribute to the condition.
Women with PCOS often produce higher levels of androgens (male hormones). Elevated androgen levels can interfere with ovulation and contribute to symptoms such as acne, irregular periods, and excess hair growth.
Insulin resistance is common in women with PCOS. When the body cannot use insulin effectively, insulin levels may rise, which can worsen hormonal imbalance and increase androgen production.
PCOS often runs in families. Women with a family history of PCOS, insulin resistance, or type 2 diabetes may have a higher risk of developing the condition.
Research suggests that low-grade inflammation and metabolic dysfunction may also contribute to PCOS symptoms and insulin resistance.
Emerging studies are also exploring possible links between gut health, metabolism, and hormonal balance in women with PCOS. However, research in this area is still evolving, and more evidence is needed to fully understand these connections.
There is no single test used to diagnose PCOS. Doctors usually diagnose the condition based on symptoms, medical history, physical examination, and laboratory tests.
Doctors may ask about:
A physical examination may include checking:
Blood tests may help evaluate:
These tests may also help rule out other hormonal conditions.
A pelvic ultrasound may be used to examine ovarian appearance and identify multiple small follicles associated with PCOS.
Doctors commonly use the Rotterdam Criteria to help diagnose PCOS. A diagnosis may be made if at least two of the following are present:
There is currently no permanent cure for PCOS/PMOS. However, symptoms can often be managed effectively through lifestyle changes, medical treatment, and long-term care.
A balanced diet can help support hormone regulation and improve insulin sensitivity. Helpful dietary habits include:
Balanced nutrition may also support healthy weight management and help reduce inflammation.
Physical activity is one of the most effective ways to help manage PCOS symptoms naturally. Exercise may help:
Helpful forms of exercise include:
Even moderate exercise several times a week may provide long-term health benefits.
For women who are overweight or obese, even modest weight loss may help improve:
However, PCOS can also occur in women with lower body weight.
Doctors may prescribe medications depending on symptoms and individual health goals. Common treatment options include:
All medications should be taken under medical supervision.
PCOS can affect emotional wellbeing and self-esteem. Women with PCOS may experience:
Mental health support, stress management, counselling, meditation, and support groups may help improve emotional wellbeing and overall quality of life.
In 2026, international experts proposed the term “Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS)” through a global consensus process.
Experts recommended the change because the older term “PCOS” does not fully reflect the condition’s broader hormonal, metabolic, and endocrine effects.
The proposed term PMOS highlights:
The goal of the new terminology is to improve awareness, diagnosis, education, research, and patient understanding.
However, PCOS remains the most widely used medical term globally while the transition and implementation process continues.
PCOS/PMOS is a long-term hormonal and metabolic condition that can affect many aspects of health, including fertility, metabolism, emotional wellbeing, and cardiovascular health.
Although there is currently no permanent cure, many women successfully manage symptoms through healthy lifestyle habits, medical support, stress management, and early treatment.
If you notice symptoms such as irregular periods, acne, excess hair growth, or unexplained weight changes, speaking with a qualified healthcare professional can help you receive the right diagnosis and treatment plan.
Early awareness and consistent care can make a meaningful difference in long-term health and overall quality of life.
No. There is currently no permanent cure for PCOS/PMOS. However, symptoms can often be managed successfully with healthy lifestyle changes, regular exercise, balanced nutrition, stress management, and medical treatment when needed.
Yes. Many women with PCOS/PMOS can become pregnant naturally or with medical support. Treatment options that improve ovulation may help increase fertility.
Yes. Many women with PCOS experience weight gain or difficulty losing weight due to hormonal imbalance and insulin resistance. However, not all women with PCOS are overweight.
Walking, strength training, yoga, swimming, cycling, and Pilates are all beneficial for managing PCOS symptoms. Consistency is usually more important than intensity.
Experts recently proposed the term PMOS (Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome) because the condition affects hormones, metabolism, insulin regulation, and ovarian function — not just the ovaries alone.
Written and Verified by:
Director & HOD Obstetrics & Gynecology Exp: 44 Yr
Obstetrics and Gynaecology
Dr. Bikash Banerjee is Director & HOD of Obstetrics & Gynaecology Dept. at CMRI, Kolkata with over 30 years of experience. He specializes in infertility & ART, laparoscopy & robotic gynaecological surgery, high-risk pregnancies, and complex gynaecological disorders.
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