A major global medical review has officially changed the name of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome to Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) in a move aimed at improving awareness and treatment of the condition.
According to The Endocrine Society, the condition affects nearly one in eight women worldwide and goes beyond ovarian health, impacting hormones, metabolism, mental health, fertility and weight regulation.
Medical experts explained that the former name created misconceptions because many affected women do not actually develop ovarian cysts. The renaming process involved more than 50 professional and patient organisations across several countries.
Professor Helena Teede of Monash University said the old terminology contributed to delayed diagnosis and poor healthcare support for many women.
The updated name will be gradually introduced through a global awareness campaign before full implementation in international medical guidelines by 2028.
Health advocates have described the change as a landmark moment in women’s healthcare that could improve diagnosis, treatment and public understanding of the condition.
