In a landmark decision in women’s health, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) has officially been renamed to Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS). The announcement, published in The Lancet and led by endocrinologist Dr. Helena Teede of Monash University, an international coalition of experts, and thousands of patient survey responses, reflects a growing recognition that the name “PCOS” describes a possible sequela of the condition but not the true underlying drivers of the hormonal disorder. 

For years, clinicians and researchers questioned whether the term “polycystic ovary syndrome” accurately described the condition. Despite the name, many individuals diagnosed with PCOS do not actually have ovarian cysts, or more correctly, arrested follicles upon ultrasound, but still meet the other Rotterdam Criteria for diagnosis—hyperandrogenism and oligo-anovulation.  Additionally, the original terminology failed to capture the widespread hormonal and metabolic dysfunction often seen in affected patients.²

The new name of Polyendocrine Metabolic Syndrome was chosen to better represent the full scope of the disorder. “Polyendocrine” acknowledges the involvement of multiple hormonal systems, while “metabolic” highlights the important role of insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction. “Ovarian” remains part of the name to reflect the reproductive and ovulatory effects seen in PMOS.²,³

The goal of the updated terminology is to improve diagnosis and treatment by encouraging a more comprehensive understanding of the condition.² Historically, the old name often created confusion for not only patients, but also healthcare providers. PCOS was often missed in patients with irregular menstrual cycles, elevated androgens, acne, or fertility challenges because they did not have ovarian cysts upon imaging. More importantly, from a prevention perspective, the increased risk of insulin resistance and type 2 diabetes in these patients was also often missed.⁴ The new PMOS framework shifts the focus toward the broader endocrine and metabolic patterns that commonly drive symptoms such as ovarian dysfunction and hyperandrogenism. 

One of the most important aspects of the conversation surrounding the renaming is the growing recognition of insulin resistance in PMOS. Insulin resistance is extremely common in individuals with the condition, even among those who are not overweight.⁴,⁵  Over time, untreated metabolic dysfunction may increase the risk of prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, fatty liver disease, and cardiovascular complications. By including “metabolic” directly in the diagnosis, clinicians may be more likely to evaluate blood sugar regulation and long-term cardiometabolic health earlier in the treatment process, which is a win for preventive care.⁵

Elevated insulin levels can stimulate increased androgen production found in PMOS, and elevated androgen levels may contribute to common PMOS symptoms such as acne, scalp hair thinning, excess facial or body hair growth, and ovulatory dysfunction. The name change highlights the recognition that androgen excess often exists within a larger network of hormonal and metabolic imbalance rather than as an isolated reproductive issue.⁵,⁶

The updated terminology also reinforces the importance of the menstrual cycle as a reflection of overall health. In PMOS, irregular or absent ovulation frequently disrupts the menstrual cycle, leading to skipped periods, prolonged cycles, unpredictable bleeding patterns and sub- or infertility. Rather than viewing these symptoms solely as gynecologic concerns, many clinicians now recognize them as important indicators of broader endocrine and metabolic dysfunction under the PMOS framework.⁶

The adoption of the new term, PMOS, reflects an effort to use language that is more scientifically accurate and clinically useful, according to the announcement publication in The Lancet.¹,⁷ When discussing what PCOS or PMOS is with our patients, we can be clearer: this is a complex endocrine and metabolic condition that can affect the menstrual cycle, fertility, ovulation, skin, metabolism, and long-term health throughout the lifespan.⁸ With a clearer understanding of what it is, we can have a clearer and hopefully more successful treatment strategy for these patients. 

Important to note- although the name has changed, the diagnostic criteria have not. While it may take some time for the updated terminology to become universally adopted, the shift from Polycystic Ovary Syndrome to Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome represents an important evolution in women’s healthcare. More precise language may ultimately improve awareness, reduce confusion, encourage earlier intervention, and support more comprehensive treatment approaches for the millions of individuals living with PMOS worldwide.¹,⁸

References

1. Teede HJ, Tay CT, Peña AS, et al. The polycystic ovary syndrome global alliance to improve outcomes in polycystic ovary syndrome. Lancet. 2026;403(10462):1568-1570. 
2. Global consensus renames PCOS to polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS). Contemporary OB/GYN. Published 2026. Accessed May 26, 2026. 
3. International evidence-based guideline recommendations for polycystic ovary syndrome. Monash University Centre for Health Research and Implementation. Published 2023. 
4. PCOS renamed PMOS in landmark shift reflecting metabolic and endocrine features. The American Journal of Managed Care. Published 2026. Accessed May 26, 2026. 
5. PCOS to PMOS: How a name change could improve care. Medical News Today. Published 2026. Accessed May 26, 2026. 
6. PCOS has officially been renamed: Here’s what to know. Parents. Published 2026. Accessed May 26, 2026. 
7. Endocrine Society announces transition from PCOS to PMOS terminology. Endocrine Society. Published 2026. Accessed May 26, 2026. 
8. Why PCOS received a new name. University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus News. Published 2026. Accessed May 26, 2026.