Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS)

News: The Endocrine Society has renamed Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) as Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) through a global medical consensus.

About Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS)

• PMOS is a hormonal and metabolic disorder that affects endocrine functions, metabolism, ovulation and overall women’s health. 
• Key Aspects of PMOS:
  • Hormonal and Metabolic Disorder: PMOS affects multiple hormone systems and is strongly linked with insulin resistance, obesity, diabetes risk and metabolic complications.
  • Major Symptoms: Common symptoms include irregular or absent periods, excess androgen hormones, acne, facial hair growth, weight gain, difficulty losing weight and fertility challenges.
  • Broader Health Impact: PMOS increases long-term risks of Type 2 diabetes, hypertension, heart disease, fatty liver disease, sleep disorders, depression and anxiety.
  • Reproductive and Psychological Effects: The condition may lead to ovulatory dysfunction, infertility, pregnancy complications, anxiety, depression and poor quality of life.
  • Diagnosis Challenges: Experts noted that PMOS is often underdiagnosed because symptoms vary widely and are frequently treated as cosmetic or lifestyle-related concerns.
  • Indian Scenario: India is witnessing a rise in PMOS cases, especially among adolescents and young urban women, with studies showing prevalence ranging from 3.7% to over 22%.
• New Name Signifies:
  • Earlier Name Was Misleading: The earlier term “Polycystic Ovary Syndrome” mainly focused on ovarian cysts, even though many women with the condition do not actually develop ovarian cysts.
  • New Name Reflect: The new term “Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome” was introduced to reflect the multisystem nature of the disorder, which affects hormone systems, metabolism, ovulation, reproductive health and long-term overall health.