PCOS becomes PCOMS: why polycystic ovary syndrome is changing its name
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Key takeaways
- Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is now known as PMOS, for "Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome." The change was announced on May 12, 2026 [1].
- The former name was inaccurate: what is observed on an ultrasound are immature follicles, not true cysts, and many affected individuals do not present these abnormalities [1].
- Diagnostic criteria, examinations, and management remain identical [1].
- Both names will coexist during a three-year transition period until 2028 [1].
- If you have any questions about your periods, speak to a healthcare professional: only a doctor can make a diagnosis.
If you have already heard of PCOS, you may have seen the news: as of May 2026, this syndrome has a new name. A simple change of acronym? Not quite. Behind these few letters lies over a decade of work by experts, healthcare professionals, and patients. We explain what is changing, what remains exactly the same, and why a more accurate name is good news.
PCOS becomes PMOS: what happened?
On May 12, 2026, during the European Congress of Endocrinology in Prague, international experts announced that Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) would henceforth be called "Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome," or PMOS. The decision was published simultaneously in The Lancet journal [1][2].
It concludes more than ten years of work: more than 14,000 patients and healthcare professionals were consulted worldwide, and 56 learned societies and patient associations were involved [1]. The syndrome is estimated to affect approximately 170 million women worldwide, or nearly one in eight [1].
What does PMOS mean?
Each of the three terms in the new name is significant [1][3]:
- Polyendocrine: multiple hormonal systems are involved, not just hormones related to the ovaries.
- Metabolic: the term highlights the importance of long-term monitoring, particularly for diabetes and heart disease.
- Ovarian: the term maintains the link to ovulation disorders and infertility, which remain essential characteristics of the syndrome.
Why was "polycystic ovary" abandoned?
The term "polycystic" was inappropriate: while many immature ovarian follicles are frequently observed on ultrasound, they are not, strictly speaking, ovarian cysts [1]. And many people do not show these types of abnormalities, which can delay their diagnosis [1].
Above all, this syndrome is not limited to the ovaries: it can affect multiple hormonal regulations (insulin, androgens, ovarian hormones), with metabolic, reproductive, psychological, and dermatological consequences [1]. The new name reflects this reality.
What experts expect from this change [1]:
- earlier detection, ideally from adolescence;
- less delay in diagnosis;
- identification and management of risk factors throughout life;
- new avenues for research.
What changes for those already diagnosed?
In daily life, very little: it is primarily the name that is evolving.
| Subject | Status |
|---|---|
| Name | PCOS becomes PMOS; both terms coexist until 2028 [1] |
| Diagnostic criteria | Unchanged [1] |
| Examinations | Identical: hormonal workup, pelvic ultrasound, and AMH levels [1] |
| Management | Identical [1] |
Good to know
A diagnosis of PCOS is now referred to as PMOS [3]. The English name is "polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome" [2]. For any questions regarding your personal situation, your doctor, gynecologist, or midwife remains your primary point of contact.
Will we still talk about PCOS?
Yes, for a while. Both terms will coexist during a three-year transition period until 2028 [1]. Clinical guidelines, medical training, and international disease classifications will be gradually updated [1]. The French National Health Insurance (Assurance Maladie) is already using the term PMOS on its website, while referencing the former name [4].
What should you do if you have questions?
A diagnosis is made by a physician: it is based on a hormonal workup and, if necessary, an ultrasound [5]. Among the main symptoms that may prompt a consultation are irregular or absent periods, excess hair growth, and acne [5]. Only a healthcare professional can determine if these signs are linked to PMOS: do not self-diagnose, but there is also no reason to remain without answers.
FAQ
Are PCOS and PMOS the same thing?
Yes. PMOS (Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome) is the new name for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) [1][3].
Why did PCOS change its name?
Because the old name did not reflect the reality: they are not true cysts, many people do not show these abnormalities, and the syndrome affects multiple hormonal systems and the metabolism, not just the ovaries [1].
Do my diagnosis or my management change?
No. Diagnostic criteria, examinations, and management remain identical [1].
Can you have PMOS without "polycystic ovaries" on an ultrasound?
Yes. Many affected individuals do not present these types of abnormalities on an ultrasound, which can delay diagnosis [1].
How many women are affected?
Approximately 170 million women worldwide, or nearly one in eight [1].
Until when will both names coexist?
During a three-year transition period until 2028 [1].
Final thoughts
A more accurate name also brings hope for being better identified and better understood. If this topic concerns you or a loved one, talk to your doctor, gynecologist, or midwife: the right time to ask your questions is now, not when everything has been "labeled." And if you are planning a pregnancy, check out our article on PCOS and pregnancy.
