PCOS renamed PMOS to highlight hormonal and metabolic nature

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal and metabolic disorder affecting roughly 10‑15% of women of reproductive age. Studies show that up to 70% of women with PCOS also have insulin resistance, which raises insulin levels, fuels inflammation, and increases androgen production, leading to symptoms such as acne, weight changes, and irregular menstrual cycles.

In Australia, the condition has been officially renamed Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) to better reflect its underlying endocrine and metabolic features and to reduce misdiagnosis linked to ovarian cysts. The change was driven by advocates and researchers at the Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation. Dr Rebecca Taylor, a RANZCOG‑certified gynaecologist, and Professor Helena Teede of Monash Health emphasized that the new terminology clarifies the disorder’s diverse manifestations and aims to improve diagnosis and care for women planning families.