Affecting millions of women and people registered female at birth, the long overdue change of name from PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) to PMOS (Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome) is designed to improve diagnosis and care – and, importantly, address the myth that it’s ‘all about ovarian cysts’.
PMOS is characterised by fluctuations in hormones, with impacts on weight, metabolic and mental health, skin, and the reproductive system.
For too long, the name ‘PCOS’ reduced a complex, long-term hormonal or endocrine disorder to a misunderstanding about ‘cysts’ and a focus on ovaries. In fact, researchers have found there is no increase in abnormal ovarian cysts in the condition, further demonstrating the need to change the name.
Over the next three years, PCOS will gradually be replaced with the new name – PMOS – across guidelines, services, and patient resources.
Verity, the UK patient-led charity for the condition, with whom FTWW works closely as part of the Women’s Health Wales Coalition, said, ‘This shift will reframe the conversation and demand that PMOS is taken as seriously as the long-term, complex health condition it is’.
We look forward now to playing a part in raising awareness in Wales – not just of the change of name, but of the need for improved treatment and support for this misunderstood condition and those living with it. Please watch this space!
You can read the full paper explaining the name change and the process behind it in The Lancet: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/lancet/article/PIIS0140-6736(26)00717-8/fulltext
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