PCOS Renamed PMOS: What Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome Means

Why the name change from Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) to Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS)?

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) has been officially renamed Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS). The new name, Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS), was announced in May 2026 and published in The Lancet, with groups including the Endocrine Society noting that the old PCOS name overemphasized ovarian cysts and underrepresented the metabolic, hormonal, skin, mental health, and reproductive impacts.

The new name recognizes that PMOS is a complex condition involving endocrine, metabolic, reproductive, dermatological and psychological health.

This condition affects more than 170 million people worldwide and has been poorly understood for far too long. This new name reflects the reality of this condition, and will hopefully bring more awareness and early detection of the condition. Putting less of a gynecological emphasis on the condition will hopefully spearhead new treatment options and insights.