PMOS (formerly PCOS)

PMOS (Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome) is a hormonal and metabolic condition that affects multiple body systems.

It is characterised by a combination of:

• Irregular or absent ovulation
• Hormonal imbalances
• Insulin resistance
• Metabolic dysfunction
• Reproductive symptoms

The term PMOS better reflects the broader endocrine and metabolic nature of the condition.

PMOS and PCOS refer to the same condition.

The name change recognises that many women experience:

• Insulin resistance
• Weight management challenges
• Cardiovascular risk factors
• Mental health impacts
• Metabolic dysfunction

… without necessarily having ovarian cysts. The new terminology aims to provide a more accurate description of the condition.

Symptoms vary between individuals but may include:

• Irregular periods
• Infrequent periods
• Absent periods
• Heavy periods

• Acne
• Excess facial or body hair
• Hair thinning
• Oily skin

• Weight gain
• Difficulty losing weight
• Increased appetite
• Insulin resistance

• Fatigue
• Sleep disturbances
• Anxiety
• Low mood
• Fertility difficulties

Not all women experience the same symptoms.

The exact cause is not fully understood.

Research suggests PMOS involves a combination of:

• Genetics
• Insulin resistance
• Hormonal dysregulation
• Inflammation
• Environmental factors

Many women have a family history of the condition.

There is no single test for PMOS.

Diagnosis may involve:

• Medical history review
• Menstrual history
• Blood tests
• Hormone testing
• Ultrasound scans
• Assessment of symptoms

Healthcare professionals will also rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms.

Yes. PMOS can affect fertility because hormonal imbalances may disrupt ovulation.

Women with PMOS may experience:

• Irregular ovulation
• Delayed conception
• Difficulty predicting fertile windows

However, many women with PMOS conceive naturally or with appropriate medical support.

Yes. Many women with PMOS experience insulin resistance, which can contribute to:

• Weight gain
• Increased hunger
• Cravings
• Difficulty losing weight

Weight challenges are often linked to underlying metabolic changes rather than lack of willpower.

Yes. Insulin resistance is considered one of the key drivers of PMOS.

High insulin levels may contribute to:

• Increased androgen production
• Weight gain
• Ovulation problems
• Increased metabolic risk

Managing insulin resistance is often a central part of treatment.

Treatment depends on:

• Symptoms
• Fertility goals
• Age
• Metabolic health
• Individual preferences

There is no cure, but symptoms can often be managed effectively.

Yes. Many women benefit from dietary approaches that support:

• Blood sugar balance
• Insulin sensitivity
• Weight management
• Hormonal health

Helpful strategies may include:

• Increasing protein intake
• Eating fibre-rich foods
• Reducing highly processed foods
• Maintaining regular meal patterns

Regular physical activity can help improve:

• Insulin sensitivity
• Weight management
• Mood
• Cardiovascular health

Both strength training and aerobic exercise may be beneficial.

Metformin is commonly prescribed to improve insulin sensitivity.

Potential benefits include:

• Improved blood sugar control
• More regular menstrual cycles
• Support with ovulation
• Weight management support

Not all women with PMOS require metformin.

In some women, improving insulin resistance may help restore ovulation and improve fertility outcomes.

Treatment decisions should be individualised.

Research suggests they may help:

• Weight management
• Appetite regulation
• Insulin resistance
• Metabolic health

Some studies have also reported improvements in menstrual regularity and ovulation.

No. Although some women may experience improved ovulation, GLP-1 medications are not currently approved as fertility treatments.

Women planning a pregnancy should discuss treatment with a healthcare professional.

Yes. Even if periods are irregular, pregnancy can still occur.

Women who do not wish to become pregnant should use appropriate contraception.

Sometimes. A healthcare professional may consider:

• Weight
• Blood pressure
• Migraine history
• Metabolic health
• Personal preferences

… when discussing contraception options.

Women with PMOS may have an increased risk of:

• Type 2 diabetes
• Prediabetes
• Cardiovascular disease
• High cholesterol
• Sleep apnoea
• Mental health conditions

Regular health reviews can help identify and manage risks early.

Yes. Research shows women with PMOS may be more likely to experience:

• Anxiety
• Depression
• Low self-esteem
• Body image concerns

Support should address both physical and emotional wellbeing.

Speak to a healthcare professional if you experience:

• Irregular or absent periods
• Excess facial hair growth
• Persistent acne
• Difficulty conceiving
• Unexplained weight gain
• Symptoms affecting quality of life

Early diagnosis may help reduce long-term health risks.

Yes. Many women with PMOS conceive naturally, although some may require support to improve ovulation or fertility outcomes.

No. Weight loss may improve symptoms for some women, but PMOS is a complex hormonal and metabolic condition that requires ongoing management.

Hormonal symptoms may change after menopause, but metabolic and cardiovascular risks can persist.