On May 12th, 2026, the condition polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) was officially changed to polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS).

The Endocrine Society says the name was changed because the previous name ‘reduced a complex, long-term hormonal or endocrine disorder to a misunderstanding about ‘cysts’ and a focus on ovaries’.

According to Verity, a UK-based PMOS charity, PMOS is:

a serious endocrine condition caused by an underlying hormone imbalance that affects over 4 million people in the UK.

The symptoms include:

• irregular periods
• excess hair
• acne
• oily skin
• reduced fertility
• irregular ovulation
• alopecia
• weight issues
• depression and anxiety

For more information, visit the links below.

• Verity PCOS Booklets
• What is PCOS? – Verity
• PCOS Overview – Mayo Clinic
• PCOS Symptoms and Causes – Mayo Clinic
• PCOS Name Change – Endocrine Society