By: Laura Mc Keon, dietetic volunteer, reviewed by Natalie Walsh, RD, and the JM Nutrition Team
What prompted the name change from PCOS to PMOS?
For many years, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), now polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) has been one of the most misunderstood conditions affecting women’s health. Despite being incredibly common, it is often reduced to a reproductive disorder or associated solely with ovarian cysts. However, as research has evolved in recent years, our understanding of the condition has changed significantly. This has led to a growing recognition that the name PCOS no longer reflects the true nature of the condition. As a result, this prompted the recent change to the name polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome or PMOS.
The global consensus by Teede et al. has stated that polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) previously named polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), affects 1 in 8 women, around 170 million women globally. They have reported that the name polycystic ovary syndrome is misleading. In addition, they claim it leaves out the condition’s metabolic and endocrine features, leading to delayed diagnosis and hindering effective care and research.
Furthermore, the term polycystic ovary implies the presence of ovarian cysts, which are not a feature of the condition, leading to misunderstandings among patients. The former name represents one organ in the female body, the ovaries, and overlooks the complex multi-system nature of the disorder. The new name better reflects that the condition affects much more than the ovaries (1,2).
What do we currently know about PMOS?
PMOS is substantially understudied and imposes a considerable health and economic burden worldwide (3). In recent years, the scope of PMOS research has expanded. It reframed the syndrome from mainly gynaecological to a lifelong multi-system disorder with implications for cardiovascular, reproductive and psychological health (4).
Diagnosis of PMOS is not straightforward. There is no single test to confirm the condition. Healthcare professionals consider a combination of symptoms, blood tests and, in some cases, an ultrasound. However, it is important to note that not everyone with PMOS will have polycystic ovaries on an ultrasound, just as not everyone with polycystic ovaries has PMOS. This is another reason why the previous name could be misleading and why a comprehensive assessment is important.
Common symptoms and the connection to metabolic health
PMOS is characterized by a hormonal imbalance that is driven by elevated levels of androgens (hormones that are normally higher in men) and/or insulin resistance. The condition can be associated with an increased risk of a wide range of health complications such as irregular menstrual cycles, infertility and metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance, type 2 diabetes, hypertension and cardiovascular disease.
In addition to these physical effects, PMOS is also associated with mental health challenges including anxiety, depression, disordered eating and negative body image (5).
As PMOS is a complex condition that impacts the whole body, the new name recognizes that it is not just one symptom.
PMOS is also metabolic condition
One of the most important changes in how we now understand PMOS is recognizing that it is not only a reproductive condition, It is also a metabolic one.
Many people with PMOS have some degree of insulin resistance, even if they are within a healthy weight range. Insulin is a hormone that helps move glucose (sugar) from the bloodstream into the body’s cells to be used for energy. When the body becomes resistant to insulin, it needs to produce more of it to achieve the same effect. Over time, these higher insulin levels can stimulate the ovaries to produce more androgens. This, in turn, can worsen many of the symptoms associated with PMOS.
Consequently, this helps to explain why symptoms can vary from person to person. One may struggle with irregular periods, while another experiences acne, unwanted hair growth, difficulty losing weight, fatigue or fertility challenges. Although these symptoms may seem unrelated, they are often connected through the underlying hormonal and metabolic changes occurring within the body.
Every PMOS patient may experience different symptoms. In addition, not everyone will experience insulin resistance. Each experience is unique. Some patients are diagnosed after struggling to conceive, while others are diagnosed because of irregular menstrual cycles, elevated testosterone levels or persistent acne. This is why the condition can take years to diagnose. Many patients spend years feeling that something is “off”, or not realizing that their symptoms are related before finally receiving an explanation.
Because PMOS affects so many systems within the body, it also increases the long-term risk of developing conditions such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. This can also have a negative impact on patients’ mental health. That said, this does not mean these outcomes are inevitable. However, it highlights the importance of early diagnosis and ongoing management.
The emotional impact of PMOS should not be underestimated. Living with symptoms such as acne, unwanted hair growth, irregular periods, weight changes and fertility concerns may have a significant effect on confidence and self-esteem.
Additionally, many patients experience anxiety or depression alongside PMOS. It is important that mental health is recognized as part of the condition rather than treated as a separate issue.
Managing symptoms of PMOS
Although there is no cure for PMOS, nutrition plays an important role in symptom management. Rather than a focus on the elimination of entire food groups, the evidence increasingly supports building sustainable eating habits that can be maintained over the long term.
Furthermore, many patients with PMOS are met with conflicting advice.
It is common to see claims that people with PMOS should avoid carbohydrates, dairy or gluten. While these approaches may work for some individuals, there is currently not sufficient evidence to support these claims.
Instead of restriction, it is more helpful to think about what you can add to your diet. This may mean including more fruit and vegetables, increasing fibre intake, adding a source of protein to each meal or choosing whole grain carbohydrates more often. These small changes can support blood sugar regulation without making eating feel restrictive.
Protein and fibre are particularly important because they help slow digestion, promote fullness and reduce large fluctuations in blood sugar levels after meals. This helps to support energy levels throughout the day.
Healthy fats, such as those found in nuts, seeds, avocado and oily fish are also valuable additions. These support overall health and make meals more satisfying.
Related: Protein: Is it worth the hype?
Fibre’s impace beyond digestion
Moreover, regular movement is another part of managing PMOS. Exercise is not simply about burning calories or changing body weight. Resistance training can improve insulin sensitivity, support muscle mass and benefit metabolic health. While activities such as walking, cycling, swimming or dancing also contribute to cardiovascular health and overall wellbeing, the best form of exercise is one that you genuinely enjoy and can continue consistently over the long term.
Sleep and stress management are often overlooked but can have a strong influence on hormonal health and general wellbeing. Chronic stress and poor sleep may worsen insulin resistance and make symptoms feel more difficult to manage.
Related: Cortisol-lowering foods and supplements
Evidence suggests that lifestyle changes remain one of the most effective ways to manage PMOS symptoms. A balanced diet and regular physical activity can improve hormonal health, metabolic function and overall quality of life.
However, there is no single dietary approach that works best for everyone. The most appropriate approach should be tailored to each person’s needs, preferences and long-term sustainability (6). Improvements in energy, mood, menstrual regularity, blood test results, sleep quality and even simply feeling better day-to-day are all signs that your body is responding positively.
The importance of individualized care for PMOS
One of the biggest misconceptions surrounding PMOS is that there is a single treatment or diet that works for everyone.
This, however, is not the case.
Unfortunately, there is no cure for PMOS. A personalized approach is needed. Reason being, PMOS presents differently from person to person. As such, management requires personalization. Factors such as age, symptoms, cultural background, food preferences, medical history and personal goals must all be considered when developing a treatment plan.
For example, someone trying to conceive will have different priorities than someone who is primarily concerned about managing acne or improving their energy levels.
It is important to find a healthcare professional suitable to your needs and to focus on developing realistic and achievable goals. Rather than aiming for perfection, the focus should be on building sustainable habits that support long-term health. Small changes that can be maintained are often far more beneficial than extreme diets that are difficult to follow.
One of the most important messages to take away is that living with PMOS does not mean your health is beyond your control. While the condition can certainly be frustrating and unpredictable at times, there are many evidence-based strategies that can help improve symptoms and quality of life.
PCOS to PMOS name change: much more than a new name
The recent change from PCOS to PMOS represents much more than a new name. It reflects a broader understanding of a condition that affects multiple systems throughout the body, not just the ovaries. Hopefully, this shift will lead to earlier diagnosis, better education for both healthcare professionals and patients, more targeted research and, ultimately, improved care for the millions of women living with the condition worldwide.
As awareness continues to grow, we hope we also move away from outdated misconceptions and towards more compassionate, patient-centred care. Each person’s experience with PMOS is different. No one should feel dismissed because their symptoms don’t match someone else’s. By recognizing the complexity of the condition and taking an individualized approach to treatment, we can empower patients to better understand their health and make informed decisions that support them throughout every stage of life.
Although PMOS is a lifelong condition, it does not have to define your life. With the right education, support and personalized treatment plan, many people are able to successfully manage their symptoms and improve their quality of life. Continued research and increased awareness will hopefully lead to earlier diagnoses, better treatment options and improved outcomes for future generations.
Most importantly, understanding that PMOS is a whole-body condition allows both healthcare professionals and patients to take a more informed and compassionate approach to managing it.
Key Takeaways
- PMOS (previously known as PCOS) is a complex hormonal and metabolic condition that affects the whole body, not just the ovaries.
- Symptoms vary from person to person and may include irregular periods, elevated androgen hormones, acne, unwanted hair growth, fertility challenges and insulin resistance.
- Nutrition and lifestyle changes play an important role in managing symptoms, but there is no single diet that works for everyone.
- If you prioritize balanced meals, regular movement, quality sleep and stress management, you can support hormonal, metabolic and mental health.
- A personalized approach to care is essential, as every person’s experience with PMOS is different. Early diagnosis, ongoing support and evidence-based treatment helps improve symptoms and overall quality of life.
Conclusion
We hope the information we provided about the name change from PCOS to PMOS has shed some light on the matter and has been of help.
Should you feel you require personalized sessions with a dietitian for PCOS/PMOS management, book a free consultation or contact us for an appointment. As always if you have comments or questions, we encourage you to let us know.
Related video: How can a dietitian help manage PCOS/PMOS?
References
1. Teede H, Khomami M, Morman R, et al. Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, the new name for polycystic ovary syndrome: a multistep global consensus process. Lancet. 2026;407:2329–2339. 2. Neven ACH, Forslund M, Ranasinha S, Sethi P, Dhungana RR, Mousa A, et al. Prevalence of polycystic ovary syndrome: a global and regional systematic review and meta-analysis. Hum Reprod Update. 2026;32(3):277–312.
2. Victorin E, Teede H, Norman RJ, Legro R, Goodarzi MO, Dokras A, et al. Polycystic ovary syndrome. Nat Rev Dis Primers. 2024;10(1):27. doi:10.1038/s41572-024-00511-3. 4. Dokras A. Polycystic ovary syndrome in 2025—insights and innovations. Fertil Steril. 2025;124:907– 909.
3. Chan JL, Masini I, Pisarska MD. Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS)/polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): current and future trends. J Clin Invest. 2026;136(12):e202824. doi:10.1172/JCI202824.
4. Di Lorenzo M, Cacciapuoti N, Lonardo MS, Nasti G, Gautiero C, Belfiore A, et al. Pathophysiology and nutritional approaches in polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): a comprehensive review. Curr Nutr Rep. 2023;12(3):527–544. doi:10.1007/s13668-023-00479-8.
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About Author:
Natalie Walsh is a Toronto-based dietitian who who focuses her practice on weight loss support, menopause support, digestive health, heart health and more. Natalie is registered with the College of Dietitians of Ontario. Laura Mc Keon is nutrition professional with a Master of Science in Public Health Nutrition, graduating from Atlantic Technological University Sligo, Ireland.
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