What’s in a name? PCOS changes to PMOS

It’s no secret that women’s health has been historically underfunded and under-researched. But thankfully, recent years have brought welcome change. As our understanding of women’s health has grown, it has become apparent that some of the terminology previously used in the medical world no longer gives a full and fair reflection of certain conditions. And that’s exactly why Polycystic Ovaries Syndrome, or PCOS, has had a “rebrand”.

The signs and symptoms of PCOS

Anyone previously diagnosed with PCOS will know what a huge impact effect it can have on their everyday life. Common symptoms include:

• Irregular periods
• Excess hair growth
• Difficulty losing weight
• Fertility issues
• Acne
• Tiredness
• Mental health issues such as depression and anxiety

As this list of symptoms shows, it is an issue that doesn’t just affect the ovaries. It is in fact a whole-body condition.

A new name for an all-too common condition

PCOS is thought to affect more than 170 million women across the globe. The symptoms listed above usually start around the time of puberty and can often continue right through until the menopause.

It is hoped that changing the name from PCOS to something that better reflects what it actually entails will help to increase awareness and understanding of this condition, hopefully leading to better diagnosis rates and treatments.

And so, The International PCOS Network has officially changed the name to Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS).

The old reference to “polycystic” inferred that cysts on the ovaries were the main feature of this disorder and largely ignored its impact on metabolism, weight and mental health. It is hoped the new name, PMOS, will improve awareness of the condition as one that can affect the whole body.

Speak to the health experts

If you recognise any of the symptoms of PMOS and you would like to speak to a medical expert, book an appointment at YourGP. We can offer a range of blood tests to check hormone levels and insulin resistance, and work with you to find the right treatment for your symptoms – from the Pill to help with irregular periods, to topical creams to treat acne, for example. We can also provide tailored advice about lifestyle changes to diet and exercise that can also potentially help you to manage your symptoms.

Book your appointment today using our simple online booking system. Or email reception@your.gp or call us on 0131 556 2525 and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you.