In May 2026, the condition formerly known as polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) was officially renamed to polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).
What is PMOS (formerly PCOS)?
PMOS is a condition that affects over 170 million women worldwide and is linked to hormonal dysregulation in the body. The exact cause is unknown but is linked to factors such as genetics and the disruption of the body’s normal hormonal processes. Hormonal imbalances range from reproductive problems (like abnormal menstrual cycles or infertility) to metabolic dysfunction (including insulin resistance and obesity) to skin problems (such as acne), and even mental health conditions (like depression, anxiety, and eating disorders).
Individuals with PMOS are more likely to have conditions such as insulin resistance, high blood pressure, dyslipidemia (too much fat in the blood), vascular (blood vessel) problems, type 2 diabetes, and other cardiometabolic conditions like heart attack and stroke.
The Name Change
Many health conditions have been renamed as scientific understanding has advanced, allowing terminology to better reflect current knowledge and reduce potential stigma associated with a diagnosis. The former name, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), was highly focused on the reproductive features of the condition which caused delays in diagnosis and treatment in those with the condition due to lack of acknowledgement for the widespread features. The name change was intended to provide a more accurate picture of the condition to further research and treatment for this condition. Between 2025-2026, a group of medical professionals across the world conducted surveys and interviews with both individuals with a PMOS diagnosis and providers in many different specialties to determine the need for a change and, ultimately, develop the new name.
Implications for Chronic Disease Prevention and Management
The researchers in the study hope to convey the importance of the heavy metabolic aspects of the condition. This acknowledgement has the potential to improve both patient and provider understanding of the condition as well as help individuals better manage the condition’s whole-body effects, particularly when it comes to the relationship between PMOS and chronic diseases, such as diabetes. The recognition of the influence of metabolic factors in PMOS will allow a more targeted approach when it comes to individuals and their providers working to prevent and/or manage chronic diseases over time.
To get support in engaging in healthy lifestyle behaviors that support PMOS management and chronic disease prevention and self-management, consider joining one of our Clemson Extension Rural Health and Nutrition programs listed below.
Physical Activity
- Practical Strength: a free, weekly online strength training class for all ability levels focused on functional fitness.
- Yoga for Every Body: a free, weekly online yoga class for all abilities incorporating movement, breathing, and mindfulness to engage with your body.
- WalkSC: a free, 12-week online walking program to help you get more active throughout your day.
Nutrition
- Stirring Up Healthy Recipes: a free, monthly online cooking class focused on diabetes-friendly favorites.
- Growing Health: an in-person gardening and health program to help you grow your own vegetables and use them in a healthy diet.
Diabetes
- Health Extension for Diabetes: a free, 16-week diabetes support program for adults living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
- Keys to Diabetes and Better Health: a free, 1-hour class on the link between diabetes and heart disease.
- Keeping Your Eyes Healthy: a free, 1-hour class on the link between diabetes and eye health.
To learn more about PMOS, check out HGIC 4401: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.
References:
- Mayo Clinic. (n.d.). Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS)—Symptoms and causes. https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pcos/symptoms-causes/syc-20353439.
- Shukla, A., Rasquin, L., & Anastasopoulou, C. (2026). Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome. In StatPearls. StatPearls Publishing. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK459251/.
- Teede, H., Khomami, M., Morman, R., Laven, J., Joham, A., Costello, M., Patil, M., Rees, D., Berry, L., Cree, M., Zhao, H., Norman, R., Dokras, A., & Piltonen, T. (2026). Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, the new name for polycystic ovary syndrome: A multistep global consensus process. The Lancet, 407(10545), 2329–2339. https://doi.org/10.1016/S0140-6736(26)00717-8.
Author:
- Melissa Bales, Extension Associate, Rural Health and Nutrition
Reviewed by:
- Ellie Lane, Extension Associate, Rural Health and Nutrition
