As of May 2026, Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) is the new name for the condition previously known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). PCOS reduced a complex, long term hormonal or endocrine disorder to a misunderstanding about ‘cysts’ and a focus on ovaries, contributing to missed diagnoses and inadequate treatment. PMOS will raise awareness and improve diagnosis and care. This name change will take place over a 3-year period. SWHR will use both PCOS and PMOS during this period.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is an imbalance of reproductive hormones that affects how the ovaries develop the egg released each month during the menstrual cycle and can cause the egg not to be released at all. Five to 10% of women between the ages of 15 to 44 have PCOS. Symptoms include abnormal and thinning hair growth, weight gain, darkening of the skin, and painful or irregular periods. Missed and irregular menstrual cycles can lead to cysts in the ovaries and infertility. In fact, most women with PCOS are diagnosed in their 20s and 30s only after experiencing challenges with becoming pregnant. Black women are underdiagnosed and disproportionately affected by PCOS and also are at increased risk of developing diabetes, uterine bleeding, cardiovascular disease, and psychological comorbidities. Pursuing and arriving at an accurate PCOS diagnosis is important for women to begin symptom management, decrease risk of developing serious health conditions, and continue family planning for those who so desire.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is part of the SWHR Gynecologic Health Network, which engages the following focus areas: Endometriosis, Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Urology, and Uterine Fibroids.