Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Renamed to Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome

1-Minute Brief

The renaming aims to reduce confusion and stigma associated with the previous terminology for this common hormonal disorder.

Key Facts

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) has been renamed polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS).
• The condition is estimated to affect one in eight women worldwide.
• Experts say the old name overemphasized ovarian cysts and led to misunderstandings.
• The renaming follows more than a decade of global consultation involving patient perspectives.
• The hormonal disorder is estimated to impact 170 million women globally.

What Happened

A global effort led to the renaming of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) to polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), following concerns about the accuracy and impact of the previous name.

Why It Matters

The new name is intended to better reflect the underlying hormonal and metabolic aspects of the condition, potentially improving understanding, diagnosis, and care for those affected.

What's Next

Healthcare organizations and professionals are expected to update terminology in guidelines and patient materials. Further public education may follow to raise awareness of the new name.