PMOS, formerly PCOS, and fertility | Care Fertility

What is Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS)?

PMOS is a common hormonal and metabolic condition that can affect how the ovaries work. You may still hear it called PCOS, especially during the transition to the new name.

PMOS can cause irregular or absent periods, higher levels of androgens, sometimes called “male-type” hormones, and changes in the ovaries seen on ultrasound. These changes can make ovulation less regular, which can make it harder to get pregnant.

Many people with PMOS do go on to have healthy pregnancies, either naturally or with fertility support. The right next step depends on your symptoms, your test results, and what you want for your future.

Why has PCOS been renamed PMOS?

PCOS has been renamed PMOS because the old name did not fully reflect the condition. For a long time, the word “polycystic” led people to think the condition was mainly about ovarian cysts. We now understand it as a wider endocrine and metabolic condition, with effects across the body.

The new name recognises that PMOS can affect hormones, metabolism, skin, weight, mental health, and the reproductive system.

You do not need to seek a new diagnosis just because the name has changed. If you have already been diagnosed with PCOS, this will now be understood as PMOS. During the transition period, you may see both names used by clinics, GPs, hospitals, and patient resources.

Stephanie’s story: PCOS and the path to parenthood

Everyone’s experience with PCOS is different, but hearing from someone who’s been through it can be reassuring.

In this video, Stephanie, a former patient at Care Fertility Birmingham, talks about her experience with PCOS, the challenges she faced, and how fertility treatment helped her grow her family.

Her story shows what’s possible with the right support at the right time.

Understanding PMOS: the guide

PMOS can be overwhelming, especially when you're trying to understand how it affects your fertility. That’s why we created the PMOS Guide, a clear and supportive resource to help you make sense of it all. Inside, you'll find expert information on symptoms, diagnosis, treatment options, and how PMOS can impact conception.

Whether you're newly diagnosed or have been managing it for years, this guide is here to support you.

Get the guide

Diagnosing PMOS

Diagnosing PCOS involves evaluating a combination of symptoms, test results, and physical examinations. To make a diagnosis, medical professionals use the Rotterdam Criteria, which require meeting at least two of the following three conditions:

Irregular or Absent Periods (Amenorrhea or Oligomenorrhea) Disruptions in your menstrual cycle, such as infrequent or absent periods, can indicate ovulatory dysfunction. This is one of the most common signs of PCOS and often the reason many seek medical advice.

Excess Androgen Levels (Hyperandrogenism)

Androgens, often referred to as "male hormones," are present in all women but can be elevated in those with PCOS. Symptoms of high androgen levels include:

Excessive hair growth on the face, chest, or back (hirsutism)
Severe acne or oily skin
Hair thinning or loss on the scalp

Blood tests can confirm whether androgen levels are abnormally high.

Polycystic Ovaries (Detected by Ultrasound) An ultrasound may show enlarged ovaries with multiple small follicles (often referred to as "cysts"). These follicles are actually immature eggs that have not been released due to hormonal imbalances.

What to expect during a PMOS diagnosis

If you suspect you have PMOS, your journey to diagnosis will involve a series of steps designed to assess your symptoms, rule out other conditions, and determine the best care plan for you. Here’s what you can expect:

Medical History Review

Your doctor will ask about:

Menstrual Cycle Patterns: Are your periods irregular, infrequent, or absent?
Symptoms: Such as acne, excessive hair growth, or weight changes.
Family History: Any relatives with PCOS, diabetes, or related conditions.
Lifestyle Factors: Diet, exercise habits, and stress levels.

Physical Examination

The doctor may examine for visible signs of PCOS, including:

Hirsutism: Excessive hair growth on areas like the face, chest, or abdomen.
Acne or Oily Skin: Linked to higher androgen levels.
Weight Distribution: As PCOS can sometimes lead to weight gain around the abdomen.

Blood Tests

Bloodwork will help confirm the diagnosis and rule out other conditions. Tests may include:

Hormone Levels: Testosterone, luteinising hormone (LH), follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH), and others.
Glucose and Insulin Levels: To check for insulin resistance or diabetes risk.
Thyroid Function Tests: To rule out thyroid disorders causing similar symptoms.

Ultrasound Examination

A transvaginal ultrasound may be performed to:

Assess ovarian size and look for multiple small follicles (often called “cysts”).
Evaluate the uterine lining for any irregularities.

Why an accurate diagnosis matters

Identifying PCOS early helps tailor treatments and manage symptoms effectively, improving overall well-being and increasing the chances of conception. If you experience any of these symptoms, our expert team can provide a detailed assessment and guide you toward the best course of action.

Would you like help understanding your symptoms or arranging an initial consultation? We’re here to support you every step of the way.

Getting pregnant with PMOS

PMOS can affect ovulation, making it more challenging to conceive. However, with the right fertility treatments and support, many individuals with PMOS achieve successful pregnancies.

Lifestyle Modifications

Before starting treatment, making small changes can improve fertility outcomes:

Healthy Eating: A balanced diet rich in whole grains, fruits, and lean proteins can regulate hormones.
Weight Management: Losing even 5-10% of body weight can restore ovulation in some individuals.
Regular Exercise: Helps manage insulin resistance and supports overall reproductive health.

Ovulation Induction

If ovulation is irregular or absent, medications can help stimulate it:

Clomiphene Citrate or Letrozole: These are often the first line of treatment, encouraging your ovaries to release an egg.
Gonadotropins: Hormone injections may be recommended if oral medications aren’t effective.

In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF)

IVF is an excellent option if other treatments haven’t been successful:

Ovarian Stimulation: Medications encourage your ovaries to produce multiple eggs.
Egg Retrieval and Fertilisation: Eggs are collected and fertilised in a laboratory before being transferred to the uterus.
Personalised Protocols: At Care Fertility, we adapt treatment to your needs, reducing the risk of complications like ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS).

Learn more about IVF

Managing Insulin Resistance

For those with insulin resistance, medications like metformin may be prescribed. This can improve ovulation and make other treatments more effective.