Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCO’s) gets a new name: “Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS)”. Why was the name changed?
By Marcela Perez Bustamante, MD
PMOS (previously named polycystic ovary syndrome), affects one in eight women, more than 170 million women worldwide. However, the term PCOS was inaccurate, implying a disorder based mainly on ovarian cysts and causing misunderstanding on diverse endocrine and metabolic features, contributing to delayed diagnosis and inadequate treatment.
The new name was developed through a global engagement that included 56 patient organizations and societies worldwide, including Endocrine Society and American Society of Reproductive medicine. The goals with this change include greater awareness, enhanced diagnosis, improved care quality and patient satisfaction, and optimized outcomes.
PMOS is characterized by fluctuations in hormones, with impacts on weight, metabolic and mental health, skin, and the reproductive system. The new name accurately reflects the condition and its symptoms, and this change will facilitate appropriate evaluation and treatment.