PCOS is now PMOS: a better name in hopes of better care

Written by the Progyny Editorial Team. Reviewed by the Progyny Clinical Team— May 2026.

You may have heard of PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome), a condition affecting about 1 in 10 women.*

As of May 2026, PCOS has a new name: PMOS (polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome). This change is meant to help patients find clarity and support, earlier and more easily.

Why is PMOS a better name?

PCOS was misleading because it doesn’t accurately capture the nature of the condition. It centered on ovarian cysts – although they are not the main feature. In contrast, PMOS emphasizes the condition’s hormonal and metabolic nature.

“For decades, the name ‘polycystic ovary syndrome’ pointed patients and providers toward ovarian ‘cysts’ that aren’t actually cysts at all. That misdirection contributed to delayed diagnoses, with studies suggesting that up to 70% of affected individuals go unrecognized,” says Dr. Nicole M. Marchetto, an OB/GYN and reproductive endocrinologist at Shady Grove Fertility.

“The new name gives patients and their care teams a clearer starting point so the right conversations happen sooner.”

Names and words matter

Women with PMOS often struggle to get diagnosed. Healthcare providers may think of it as a gynecological condition, but its root cause is hormonal. Misunderstanding may delay effective, comprehensive treatment. As Dr. Marchetto explains, PMOS better reflects the wide-ranging effects on physical and emotional health:

“PMOS is not just a reproductive condition – it’s a multisystem syndrome. Individuals with PMOS face elevated risks of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mental health challenges including anxiety and depression. The new name signals that comprehensive screening and long-term health monitoring matter just as much as managing cycles or fertility.”

PMOS signs and symptoms

PMOS experiences vary, and not everyone has the same symptoms. The most common include:

• Irregular periods or missed periods
• Difficulty getting pregnant
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Acne or oily skin
• Excess hair growth on the face or body
• Hair thinning on the scalp
• Insulin resistance or prediabetes
• Fatigue
• Anxiety or depression

Early diagnosis and support are key

When PMOS isn’t treated effectively, it may raise other health risks, including:

• Type 2 diabetes and heart disease
• Acne, excess hair growth, or thinning hair on scalp
• Anxiety, depression, and sleep disorders
• Thickened endometrium (which may lead to heavy menstrual bleeding, bleeding between periods, bleeding after menopause, and increased cancer risk)

Fortunately, early diagnosis and care help reduce risks and improve well-being. Personalized care plans for PMOS may include:

• Lifestyle support (healthy eating and physical activity)
• Weight management support
• Fertility evaluation and treatment, including medicine to help with ovulation
• Hormonal medicine to help regulate your menstrual cycle or other symptoms
• Medicine to help with insulin resistance
• Emotional well-being support

Dr. Marchetto stresses that individualized, comprehensive care is essential. “The best outcomes happen when patients have a coordinated care team that sees the full picture, not just one piece of it.”

Seeking support

Talk with your provider or seek out a specialist if you have symptoms or questions about PMOS. Specialists knowledgeable about PMOS include:

• Endocrinologists
• Reproductive endocrinologists
• Gynecologists
• Internal medicine doctors with expertise in metabolism

If you’re not sure or have any questions about your symptoms, it’s always OK to bring that up with a provider. They are there to listen, support, and work with you. Your Progyny Care Advocate is also here to help connect you with resources based on your needs and goals.

*Note: “women” is used to refer to women, girls, and people with ovaries.

Disclaimer: The information provided by Progyny is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical guidance.

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