PCOS
(Now Known as PMOS)
Understanding PCOS
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common hormonal disorders affecting women of reproductive age. In 2026, an international panel of experts recommended changing the name to Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) because it more accurately reflects the condition. Although the name has changed, it is the same disorder.
The new terminology recognizes that PCOS is much more than a condition affecting the ovaries. It is a complex hormonal and metabolic disorder that can influence menstrual cycles, fertility, weight, insulin resistance, skin health, and long-term cardiovascular and metabolic health.
Because most women are familiar with the term PCOS, you’ll continue to see both names used while the medical community transitions to the updated terminology.
Common Symptoms of PCOS/PMOS
Not every woman experiences all of these symptoms, and women of any body size can have PCOS.
How Is PCOS Diagnosed?
- Irregular or absent ovulation, often causing irregular or missed periods
- Signs of elevated androgens, such as acne, unwanted facial or body hair, scalp hair thinning, or elevated androgen levels on bloodwork
- Polycystic-appearing ovaries on ultrasound
An ultrasound is not always necessary, and you do not need to have ovarian cysts to have PCOS.
Your evaluation may also include testing for insulin resistance, blood sugar abnormalities, cholesterol changes, and other metabolic concerns that commonly occur with PCOS.
Treatment Options
Treatment is individualized and depends on your symptoms, health goals, and stage of life.
Your treatment plan may include:
Nutrition & Metabolic Health
Exercise and lifestyle
Weight management
Menstrual cycle management
Insulin resistance & metabolic treatment
Acne & unwanted hair growth
Fertility & Ovulation
The goal is not simply to manage symptoms but to improve your overall hormonal, metabolic, and long-term health.
Ready to Start Feeling Better?
You don’t have to navigate hormonal changes alone. We’re here to help you find answers and create a treatment plan that fits your life.
Why Treatment Matters
- Irregular ovulation and difficulty becoming pregnant.
- Prediabetes and type 2 diabetes
- Cholesterol and Triglyceride abnormalities
- Fatty liver disease
- High blood pressure
- Sleep apnea
- Cardiovascular disease
- Endometrial hyperplasia/cancer
Early diagnosis and treatment can improve symptoms while helping reduce future health risks.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why was PCOS renamed PMOS?
The previous name placed the emphasis on the ovaries, when PCOS is actually a complex endocrine and metabolic disorder that affects the entire body. Insulin resistance and metabolic dysfunction play a central role for many women, influencing hormone production, ovulation, weight, cardiovascular health, and long-term metabolic health.
The new name highlights these underlying metabolic and hormonal changes while recognizing that ovarian findings are only one part of the condition. Although the terminology is evolving, the diagnosis and treatment principles remain the same.
Can you have PCOS if you're not overweight?
Yes. Women of any body size can have PCOS. While insulin resistance and weight gain are common, many women with PCOS have a normal body weight.
Is treatment only for women trying to become pregnant?
No. Many women seek treatment to improve irregular periods, acne, unwanted hair growth, weight management, insulin resistance, energy levels, and overall health. Fertility is only one aspect of PCOS care.
Can PCOS improve?
Yes. Many women experience significant improvement—or even remission—of their symptoms with appropriate treatment and healthy lifestyle changes. Improving insulin resistance, optimizing nutrition, maintaining regular physical activity, and achieving a healthy weight when appropriate can restore regular menstrual cycles, improve hormone balance, and reduce many of the long-term health risks associated with PCOS. Even after symptoms improve, periodic follow-up is recommended because the underlying tendency toward hormonal and metabolic dysfunction may persist.
Personalized PCOS Care
At Balanced Women’s Wellness, I provide comprehensive, evidence-based care for women with PCOS at every stage of life. Whether your goals include regulating your menstrual cycles, improving metabolic health, managing weight, balancing hormones, preparing for pregnancy, or simply feeling your best, we’ll develop a treatment plan tailored to your unique needs.