Formerly known as PCOS
Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome
In May 2026, a global group of more than 50 patient and medical organizations renamed polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). The old name made it sound like it was all about ovarian cysts — but most people with the condition don't have abnormal cysts. The new name reflects that it affects hormones, metabolism, mental health, skin, and fertility. It's the same condition, so an earlier PCOS diagnosis still applies.
Common signs and symptoms
Everyone's mix is different. You may have some of these and not others.
- Irregular, infrequent, or missed periods
- Extra hair on the face, chest, or back
- Acne, oily skin, or thinning scalp hair
- Weight gain, especially around the middle, or finding weight hard to lose
- Darker, velvety skin patches (neck, armpits, groin)
- Sugar cravings, energy crashes, or feeling hungry soon after eating
- Trouble getting pregnant
- Low mood, anxiety, or poor sleep
Long-term risks to know about
These risks are higher than average, not certain. Regular check-ups help catch them early.
- Insulin resistance, prediabetes, and type 2 diabetes
- High cholesterol, high blood pressure, and heart disease
- Gestational diabetes and other pregnancy complications
- Fatty liver disease
- Sleep apnea
- Endometrial (uterine lining) problems if periods are very infrequent
- Depression, anxiety, and disordered eating
How it's usually diagnosed
Clinicians commonly look for two of these three:
- Irregular or absent ovulation
- Signs of higher androgens (from symptoms or blood tests)
- Certain findings on an ultrasound or an AMH blood test
They also rule out other causes, like thyroid problems.
When to talk to a clinician
- Your periods are irregular, very heavy, or stop for 3+ months (and you're not pregnant)
- You notice new hair growth, acne, or hair loss
- You're trying to conceive
- You have signs of high blood sugar, like extreme thirst or frequent urination
- Your mood or eating feels hard to manage
Everyday habits that often help
- Balanced meals with protein, fiber, and healthy fats, which help steady blood sugar
- Fewer sugary drinks and highly refined carbs
- Regular movement you enjoy, including strength training
- Good sleep and stress care
- Small, steady changes — even modest weight changes can improve symptoms for some people
MealWise can help you track these. Set up your PMOS profile so suggestions fit you.
Set up profileSources
Not medical advice. For information only; consult your clinician for medical decisions.