PCOS renamed 'polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome' (PMOS)

Endocrine disorder 'polycystic ovary syndrome' (PCOS) has been renamed 'polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome' (PMOS) to better reflect the clinical features of the condition.

PMOS, which affects one in eight women, is characterised by disruptions in ovulation and fertility, overproduction of androgens (male hormones) and polycystic ovaries. Originally thought to be a gynaecological issue, research now suggests the condition is more hormonal in nature, given the disturbances it causes in insulin, androgens, neuroendocrine and ovarian hormones. 'Polycystic' referred to the presence of underdeveloped follicles rather than true ovarian cysts, contributing to misunderstanding, diagnostic delays and underdiagnosis.

'What we now know is that there is actually no increase in abnormal cysts on the ovary, and the diverse features of the condition were often unappreciated,' said Professor Helena Teede from Monash University's Centre for Health Research and Implementation in Melbourne, Australia, lead author of the Lancet paper announcing the change. '... A name change was the next critical step towards recognition and improvement in the long-term impacts of this condition.'

The name change follows a 14-year collaboration between researchers, practitioners and patient groups. After a process of surveys, workshops, and engagement from almost 15,000 stakeholders, the new name was chosen.

Professor Terhi Piltonen, co-lead on the project and professor of obstetrics and gynaecology from Oulu University Hospital, Finland, said: 'It was essential that the new name was scientifically correct but also considered across diverse cultural contexts to avoid certain reproductive terms that could heighten stigma and be harmful for women in some countries. This made a culturally and internationally informed consultation critical to getting it right.'

PMOS is traditionally understood as a female disorder and is a leading cause of subfertility. However, survey responses during the name-change process highlighted the need for awareness of how PMOS impacts gender-diverse people with ovaries, as well as evidence that men may develop a similar condition with hormonal and metabolic symptoms (see BioNews 1089). In this specific rebranding effort, reference to a male phenotype was omitted due to fears of diluting resources for women's health, when women are already underserved in terms of research and healthcare.

The name change will be rolled out globally over the next three years with a strategy that includes improving awareness, diagnosis and patient care. 'Make no mistake,' said Professor Teede, 'this is a landmark moment that will lead to desperately needed worldwide advancements in clinical practice and research.'