One of the most common endocrine diseases in women has officially received a new name. Polycystic ovary syndrome, which affects one in eight women worldwide, is now called polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS). Experts believe this will help to more accurately reflect the essence of the disease, expedite diagnosis, and draw attention to issues that have long remained in the shadows.
In May, an article was published in the prestigious medical journal The Lancet about the renaming of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) to polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS). The same day, the change was officially announced at the European Congress of Endocrinology in Prague, reports BBC.
This decision has been in the making for more than ten years by scientists, doctors, and patients. Back in 2012, specialists from the National Institutes of Health in the United States stated that the old name did not reflect the true nature of the disease and misled both patients and doctors.
According to the authors of the study, the old name contributed to late diagnosis, fragmented treatment, and even the stigmatization of women with this diagnosis.
What is PMOS in Simple Terms?
Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome is a complex disease that simultaneously affects the hormonal system, metabolism, and ovarian function.
Due to hormonal disturbances, a woman may experience irregular menstruation, ovulation problems, weight gain, acne, hair loss, and an increased risk of developing diabetes. At the same time, the body often responds poorly to insulin, which further affects metabolism.
How Common is the Disease?
According to the World Health Organization, PMOS occurs in 10–13% of women of reproductive age. It is one of the most common endocrine disorders in women.
At the same time, specialists believe that up to 70% of patients do not have an official diagnosis. Many seek medical help for years with complaints of irregular cycles, excess weight, or skin issues, unaware that all these symptoms are interconnected.
Why Was the Old Name Considered Unfortunate?
The name "polycystic ovary syndrome" focused only on changes in the ovaries. However, the presence of a characteristic pattern on ultrasound is not a mandatory sign of the disease.
Moreover, we are not talking about actual cysts. What appears as cysts on ultrasound is most often follicles whose development has stopped before ovulation.
As a result, many women and even doctors perceived the disease solely as a gynecological problem, not linking it to metabolic disorders, insulin resistance, anxiety, or an increased risk of diabetes.
Main Symptoms of PMOS
The manifestations of the disease can vary widely. Among the most common signs are:
-
irregular menstrual cycle or absence of ovulation;
-
difficulties with conception;
-
acne and increased oiliness of the skin;
-
hair loss;
-
excessive hair growth in a male pattern;
-
insulin resistance;
-
tendency to gain weight;
-
increased risk of anxiety and depressive disorders.
To diagnose PMOS, usually a combination of two out of three signs is sufficient: ovulation disorders, excess androgens, or characteristic changes in the ovaries on ultrasound.
Why is the Diagnosis Often Made Too Late?
According to international data, for many women, the diagnosis takes about two years, and nearly half of patients have to consult more than two specialists.
Complaints about irregular cycles are often attributed to stress, excess weight, or age-related features. Many women receive only hormonal contraceptives for years, which mask the symptoms but do not help to understand the underlying causes of the disease.
As a result, patients may not understand for a long time why they are facing issues with weight, skin, mood, or reproductive health.
Can PMOS Be Cured?
It is impossible to completely get rid of the syndrome with just one pill. However, modern treatment methods allow for effective control of the disease and significantly improve the quality of life.
The therapy strategy depends on the specific goals of the woman: whether she is planning a pregnancy, needs contraception, which symptoms are most bothersome, and whether there are accompanying diseases.
Lifestyle, nutrition, physical activity, and weight control play an important role. In some cases, medications and hormonal therapy are additionally used.
Is It Just a Conception Problem?
No. This is why the new name is considered more accurate.
PMOS affects not only reproductive function but also metabolism, skin condition, psychological health, and the risk of developing chronic diseases. Without treatment, the disease can increase the likelihood of diabetes, cardiovascular disorders, endometrial hyperplasia, and other complications.
At the same time, the diagnosis does not mean infertility. Most women with PMOS can conceive either on their own or after lifestyle changes and treatment.
Renaming PCOS to PMOS has not changed the diagnostic criteria and treatment methods, but it has allowed for a more accurate description of the essence of the disease. The new term emphasizes that it is not only about ovarian function but a complex disorder affecting the hormonal system, metabolism, and overall health of women. Specialists hope this will help in earlier detection of the disease, improve the quality of medical care, and free patients from many myths and misconceptions.
