September is PMOS Awareness Month!

You may be asking yourself, what is PMOS?

Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), formerly known as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, or PCOS, is a hormonal condition that affects roughly one in eight people with ovaries. In PMOS, the body makes a higher than normal amount of androgens (“male” hormones like testosterone). Research also suggests that the body might make too much insulin in those with PMOS, signaling the ovaries to release extra androgens. This can lead to irregular periods, erratic ovulation and trouble getting pregnant.

Below are some things to know about PMOS. Take it from me, I’ve done my research!

My Story

After missing my period for a year and a half when it had been regular and consistent for about three years prior to that, I went to see a gynecologist. While periods can often be irregular for a while at the start of puberty, I knew something was up when I had missed mine for so long.

I was diagnosed with PMOS in May 2025. My doctor put me on the Pill a month later to help manage my symptoms. More about that later.

Name Change

You may be wondering why the name “PCOS” was changed to “PMOS.” Doctors used to focus on the “polycystic” part of it when diagnosing patients. But, it turns out that not everyone with the condition experiences polycystic ovaries (which have multiple, immature follicles that aren’t actually cysts). The name “PMOS” better explains the range of ways someone can be affected.

Some Symptoms

PMOS symptoms can include, but aren’t limited to, missed or frequent periods; weight changes; excess hair growth on face, chest, stomach or upper thighs; hair loss; severe acne; oily skin; insulin resistance (which can cause increased blood sugar levels); and dark spots on the skin. You may also have a harder time getting pregnant when and if you decide to do so. However, it’s often still possible to get pregnant! If you’re sexually active, use contraception if you are not ready to be pregnant.

Did You Know?

Ten to 13 percent of people with ovaries worldwide are affected by PMOS, according to the World Health Organization. However, up to 70 percent of people with PMOS don’t even know they have it!

If you think you may have PMOS, it’s important to consult with a health care provider. PMOS can put people at higher risk for health issues including obesity, Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. As mentioned, it’s also linked to issues with fertility.

Chronic but Manageable

PMOS is chronic, which means a person diagnosed with it will have it their entire life. It mostly affects people during their reproductive years (the time between someone’s first menstrual period and menopause) because it can alter your menstrual cycle, notably how and when your ovaries release eggs (ovulation).

However, there are ways to manage PMOS. Some people are prescribed birth control like IUDs or the Pill, or medication to help their body with insulin. Whether or not someone uses medication, lifestyle changes like eating a healthy diet, exercising and getting enough sleep have also been found to help manage PMOS.

Runs in the Family

While the exact cause of PMOS is unknown, there is evidence that it’s genetic. If a relative has it, chances are higher for you to have it too. Both my mom and my sister have it, for example.

Varied Experiences

People with PMOS have a range of experiences and symptoms. Since I started taking the Pill, I’ve had more regular periods, less acne and less mood swings. But, I’ve also noticed heavier periods and worse cramps (these are potential side effects from the medication).

When I first got on the Pill, I also had some nausea and brain fog, but that went away after my body adjusted to it. I tried another brand for a while and it caused me to be nauseous the week leading up to my period, so I switched back to the original brand I used. There are a lot of different brands of the Pill, so you may have to try a few to find one that works for you.

Sometimes my period is still irregular, but managing stress and being consistent with taking my pills helps keep my periods consistent for the most part.

Support System

It helps to have a support system to be able to talk and get advice whenever you have any questions or just need someone to listen. I’m glad I can go to my mom and sister.

Hopefully this article has helped you understand PMOS a little more, too! If you feel like you might have PMOS, you can reach out to a gynecologist, endocrinologist or start with your physician for help.

There isn’t one test for PMOS, doctors look for a combination of things to diagnose it. If any of the above sounds like something you’re going through, get checked out so you can start managing your symptoms ASAP!