After numerous years of discussions and debates, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is undergoing a name change to polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS). This chronic hormonal disorder affects approximately 170 million women globally and manifests through various symptoms like irregular menstrual cycles, infertility, excessive facial hair growth, and mental health challenges.
The transition to the new name was officially unveiled in The Lancet and announced during the European Congress of Endocrinology in Prague. Canadian experts, patients, and advocates have welcomed this change, anticipating improved care, earlier diagnosis, holistic treatment approaches, and increased awareness of lesser-known symptoms associated with the condition.
Donna Vine, the principal investigator of the PCOS Together research and community outreach program at the University of Alberta, expressed optimism about the enhanced understanding and management of PMOS among patients. The rebranding reflects a shift towards recognizing the condition’s hormonal and metabolic nature rather than solely focusing on ovarian aspects.
In Canada, PMOS diagnosis requires meeting two out of three criteria: irregular menstrual cycles, hyperandrogenism leading to acne or excessive hair growth, and either ovarian follicle growth increase on ultrasound or elevated anti-müllerian hormone levels in the blood. Symptoms of PMOS encompass abnormal periods, skin issues, hair problems, fertility challenges, and mental health disorders, with potential health risks including obesity, high blood pressure, heart disease, sleep apnea, and endometrial cancer.
The decision to move away from the term PCOS stems from its historical inaccuracy, as the condition does not involve cysts in the ovaries but rather follicle irregularities. The new name reflects the condition’s hormonal complexity and metabolic implications, emphasizing the involvement of multiple endocrine glands and metabolic issues like high blood pressure, Type 2 diabetes, and abnormal glucose or lipid levels.
Patients like Sankirthana Dyapa, who was diagnosed with PMOS, appreciate the name change for highlighting all symptoms and not solely focusing on reproductive aspects. Dyapa’s experience underscores the importance of recognizing and addressing the diverse manifestations of the condition beyond fertility concerns. The new name PMOS aims to encompass the broader spectrum of symptoms often overlooked in the past, advocating for a more comprehensive approach to diagnosis and treatment.