PCOS Renamed Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) Worldwide

An international consortium led by Monash University has renamed polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) to polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS). The change follows a 14‑year review involving more than 50 professional societies, over 22,000 patients and clinicians, and input from researchers worldwide. Published in The Lancet, the new terminology reflects that the condition is a systemic endocrine and metabolic disorder rather than a disease confined to ovarian cysts.

The revised diagnostic criteria no longer require ultrasound evidence of cystic ovaries when metabolic abnormalities are present, aiming to speed up diagnosis and broaden treatment to include cardiology, endocrinology, mental‑health and reproductive specialists. Advocates say the rename validates the experiences of millions of women—approximately one in eight globally—who have faced delayed or missed diagnoses, especially among Black women and other underserved groups. Early recognition of associated risks such as insulin resistance, hypertension and type‑2 diabetes is expected to improve long‑term health outcomes.

Health organizations in the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, Australia and India have already begun updating clinical guidelines and patient‑education materials to incorporate the PMOS label, with rollout planned over the next three years.