PCOS is now named PMOS: Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome. Here’s why I’m Thrilled About it!

by Melanie Reidl, Naturopathic Doctor

PCOS officially got a new name this month and I’m thrilled about it! It changed because the old name never reflected the full picture of this condition.

A May 2026 paper published in The Lancet announced that PCOS will now be called PMOS: Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome. For decades, the name Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome made the condition sound like it was strictly an ovary issue.

In addition to reproductive and endocrine (hormone) health challenges, women with PMOS often deal with health challenges beyond their ovaries. They can also struggle with their metabolic, cardiovascular, dermatological, and psychological health.

Common conditions associated with PMOS include:

~Weight gain
~Anxiety
~Depression
~Acne
~Fatty liver disease
~Cardiovascular risk
~Metabolic dysfunction
~Insulin resistance
~Inflammation
~Infertility

The Lancet paper points out that the old name obscured the condition’s broader endocrine and metabolic features and contributed to delayed diagnosis, fragmented care, stigma, and confusion.
With a new name that conveys its multi-system impact, this is one step in the right direction for greater awareness, diagnosis, and comprehensive medical care for women with PMOS.

The name PMOS finally reflects the comprehensive, evidenced-based, compassionate care I provide for this group of women. <3

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