PMOS: The New Name for PCOS

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) has been renamed Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS). While this may seem like a simple terminology change, it represents a much deeper shift in how the condition is understood, diagnosed, and supported, both medically and socially.

Why the Name Change Matters

For years, the term PCOS has caused confusion. Despite the name, the condition is not defined by ovarian cysts, and many women diagnosed with PCOS do not have cysts at all. The focus on “cysts” has often led to misunderstanding, misdiagnosis, and delayed support.

PMOS more accurately reflects the reality of the condition. It highlights that this is a complex hormonal and metabolic disorder. One that can affect multiple systems in the body, including:

• Hormones and endocrine function
• Metabolism and weight regulation
• Skin (e.g. acne) and hair growth
• Fertility and reproductive health
• Mental health and emotional wellbeing

This reframing acknowledges the full scope of the condition, rather than reducing it to a single, and often misleading symptom.

A Global Shift in Understanding

The move to PMOS is the result of 14 years of international collaboration, involving medical experts, patient organisations, and more than 22,000 women with lived experience of PMOS.

With over 170 million women worldwide, including around 4 million in the UK, affected by PMOS, the change is both significant and necessary.

The goals behind renaming PCOS to PMOS are clear:

• Improve diagnostic accuracy
• Enhance understanding among healthcare professionals
• Reduce stigma and misconceptions
• Ensure more holistic, effective care

The new term is set to be formally implemented in international guidelines by 2028, marking a major milestone in women’s health across the globe.

Recognising the Wider Impact of PMOS

PMOS is not just a clinical condition, it has a real, everyday impact on women’s lives. Symptoms can be long term and wide ranging, affecting confidence, mental health, relationships, and the ability to carry out daily activities. This growing recognition is particularly important in contexts beyond healthcare, such as the workplace.

Head of Equalities, Jennifer Dean said:

“The move to rename PCOS as PMOS is a welcome step towards more honest and inclusive recognition of a condition that affects millions of women in complex and often misunderstood ways. This change helps shift the conversation away from outdated assumptions and towards a fuller understanding of its impact on daily life. It also highlights the importance of ensuring workplaces respond appropriately, with greater awareness, empathy, and practical support for those whose symptoms may require flexibility or adjustments to remain fully included at work.”

The shift from PCOS to PMOS represents more than just a name change, it is about progress, accountability and visibility. Furthermore, this new terminology gives HR departments, managers and occupational health teams a much clearer framework to provide proper adjustments and holistic support to women at work who have the condition.