After more than a decade of advocacy, doctors globally have agreed to rename polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) to polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS). The condition affects one in eight women, or approximately 3.1 million women and girls in the UK, and is characterized by hormonal fluctuations impacting weight, mental health, skin, and the reproductive system.
Why the Name Change?
The new name aims to dispel the misconception that the condition is primarily about ovarian cysts, which campaigners say has led to missed diagnoses and inadequate treatment. A 2025 report by an all-party parliamentary group found that over a third of women with PCOS waited longer than four years for a diagnosis. In response, Health Secretary Wes Streeting has pledged to overhaul women's healthcare through the government's Women's Health Strategy.
Global Consensus and Announcement
The renaming was spearheaded by UK patient charity Verity and endocrinologist Professor Helena Teede, director of Melbourne's Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation. After 14 years of consultations between global medics and patients, the new name was published in a consensus statement in The Lancet on May 12, 2026, and announced simultaneously at the European Congress of Endocrinology in Prague.
Professor Teede commented: 'This is a landmark moment that will lead to desperately-needed worldwide advancements in clinical practice and research. It was heart-breaking to see the delayed diagnosis, limited awareness and inadequate care afforded those affected by this neglected condition.'
When doctors first named PCOS in 1935, they believed it was primarily caused by physical changes to the ovaries. Decades of research have since revealed the condition is far more complex. 'What we now know is that there is actually no increase in abnormal cysts on the ovary and the diverse features of the condition were often unappreciated,' Professor Teede added. 'A name change was the next critical step towards recognition and improvement in the long-term impacts of this condition.'
Patient Reactions
Some patients remain cautious in their celebrations. Simone Margett, 30, from Norfolk, diagnosed at age 18, told Metro: 'I feel like we're now headed in the right direction, my only hope is that doctors are more sympathetic towards women who have PCOS. They have said things like "it's just part of being a woman" or "just lose weight and you'll be fine". The name will take some getting used to and I hope it leads to better understanding of what it's like living with a condition like PCOS.'
Understanding PMOS
The exact cause remains unknown, but it is linked to abnormal hormone levels, insulin resistance, and elevated testosterone and luteinising hormone (LH). Common symptoms include irregular or absent periods, difficulty getting pregnant due to ovulation issues, excessive hair growth (hirsutism), weight gain, thinning hair or hair loss, and oily skin or acne. The NHS advises consulting a GP if any of these symptoms are present.
Challenges Ahead
Campaigners acknowledge the name change may cause temporary confusion but believe it is worthwhile. Rachel Morman, chairwoman of Verity (PCOS UK), stated: 'Despite decades of tireless advocacy to improve awareness, we recognised that the risk of change would be worth the reward. This shift will reframe the conversation and demand that it is taken as seriously as the long-term, complex health condition it is.'
It remains unclear if or when the NHS will adopt the new terminology. An NHS England spokesperson said: 'We routinely review and update content on the NHS website to ensure it reflects the latest clinical advice and will carefully consider these recommendations. The NHS will also continue our work to improve women's healthcare, including for this important group, which involves giving women more choice over their care, bringing down waiting times, and delivering more care in communities.'
