PCOS Gets a New Name After Years of 'Inaccurate' Terminology

(SPOT.ph) For something so common, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is still surprisingly confusing. Many people only start looking it up after months of missed periods, stubborn acne, unexplained weight gain, or fertility issues. Now, experts are saying the confusion may have started with the name itself.

PCOS has now been renamed polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) to more accurately reflect the condition. The new name was published in the medical journal The Lancet on May 12, 2026, following a global consensus process involving medical experts, researchers, professional societies, and patient advocates.

The reason is fairly simple: PMOS was never just about ovarian cysts.

According to the Endocrine Society, not all patients have polycystic-looking ovaries, plus the so-called “cysts” are not even cysts in the actual sense.

Thus the new name is meant to encapsulate what the condition actually involves: “polyendocrine” points to multiple hormone systems, while “metabolic” points to its link with insulin resistance and other long-term health risks. “Ovarian” remains in the name because the ovaries are still part of the condition, particularly when it comes to menstrual cycles.

Also read: Living With PCOS Isn't Easy, Especially If You Want a Family

At its core, PMOS happens when the body’s hormone signals do not work as they should, leading to higher-than-normal levels of androgens—or what is called “male hormones”—which can disrupt ovulation. When ovulation does not happen regularly, small, immature follicles can build up on the ovaries—these are the “cysts” that are often associated with PMOS.

This is why doctors now want the name to reflect that PMOS is not only an ovarian problem, but a condition involving hormones, metabolism, and reproductive health.

“It was heartbreaking to see the delayed diagnosis, limited awareness and inadequate care afforded those affected by this neglected condition. While international guidelines have advanced awareness and care, a name change was the next critical step towards recognition and improvement in the long-term impacts of this condition,” endocrinologist Helena Teede from Monash Health said.

The Endocrine Society said PMOS affects an estimated one in eight women or more than 170 million women worldwide. In the Philippines, around 4.5 million Filipinas are living with PMOS, but it is highly likely that this number is an underestimation since up to 70% of affected women remain undiagnosed as per the World Health Organization.

Part of why diagnosis can be so difficult is because the symptoms can vary from person to person. Common signs include irregular, absent, or heavy periods; acne or oily skin; excess facial or body hair; thinning hair on the scalp; weight gain; and difficulty getting pregnant.

PMOS is also linked to insulin resistance and higher risks of type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, high cholesterol, cardiovascular disease, sleep apnea, and endometrial problems.

PMOS has no cure, which is why early diagnosis makes all the difference.

According to Medical Specialist III Leedah Ranola-Nisperos of Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital, its symptoms can be managed by correcting how the hormones function and respond in the body. For some, it may involve lifestyle changes such as balanced meals, regular exercise, and adequate sleep. For others, doctors may recommend medication or other medical interventions depending on symptoms, hormone levels, menstrual patterns, metabolic risks, and fertility concerns.

“Early diagnosis and proactive management can help individuals with PCOS lead healthy and fulfilling lives,” Ranola-Nisperos said during a 2025 DOST-Science and Technology Information Institute seminar on PMOS.

If you suspect you may have PMOS, the best place to start is with an OB-GYN or an endocrinologist. The good news is that there’s no shortage of services in Metro Manila. Depending on your symptoms, you may also be referred to a fertility specialist, dermatologist, nutritionist, or other doctors.

Here are some hospitals and clinics that offer PMOS packages:

• The Medical City, Pasig City

• St. Luke’s Medical Center, Quezon City and Bonifacio Global City

• Makati Medical Center, Makati City

• Philippine General Hospital, Manila

• Rizal Medical Center, Pasig City

• Cardinal Santos Medical Center, San Juan City

• Chinese General Hospital and Medical Center, Manila

• Dr. Jose Fabella Memorial Hospital, Manila

• Quezon City General Hospital, Quezon City

• Kindred branches

• Shinagawa Diagnostic & Preventive Care, Bonifacio Global City

• Hi-Precision / Hi-Precision Plus branches

• Ashrey Diagnostic Center, Makati City and Taguig City

• Fullerton Health, Bonifacio Global City

• La Sante Medical & Diagnostic Center, Manila

• Top Health, Manila and Makati City

• CVMC Clinics and Surgicenter, Manila

You can also check out NowServing to search for PMOS doctors, OB-GYNs, endocrinologists, and reproductive endocrinology specialists by location.

Also read: We Had Our Miracle Baby for 14 Days; Our Grief Lasted Much Longer