Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS)

Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), formerly known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), is a common hormonal and metabolic condition that affects people with ovaries. It can cause irregular periods, acne, excess hair growth, weight changes and fertility problems. PMOS is one of the most common causes of infertility and is linked to insulin resistance and higher risk of diabetes. 

PMOS is often misunderstood or diagnosed late. Getting answers early can help you manage symptoms and reduce long-term health risks.

Whether you’ve recently found out you have PMOS, think you might have it, or want to help someone who does, we’re here to help. Keep reading to learn more about this syndrome, what it does and how to handle it.

What is polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS)?

PMOS is an endocrine and metabolic disorder that affects how your ovaries (the organs that create and release eggs) work.

PMOS gets its name from small follicle cysts (fluid-filled sacs) on the ovaries. However, not everyone with PMOS has these cysts, which can make the term “polycystic” misleading. 

Quick facts about PMOS

• PMOS affects about 1 in 10 people with ovaries during reproductive years
• It is a lifelong condition but symptoms can be managed
• Not everyone with PMOS has ovarian cysts
• PMOS is linked to insulin resistance and higher risk of type 2 diabetes 

What causes polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS)?

The exact cause of PCOS is not fully understood, but genetics likely play a role. PMOS often runs in families. If a close family member has PMOS, type 2 diabetes or irregular menstrual cycles, your risk may be higher.

Other things that may play a part in causing PMOS include:

• High levels of androgen (hyperandrogenism): Usually, the ovaries release an egg about once a month. In people with PMOS, excess androgen levels (male hormones) get in the way of this happening. This can cause irregular periods.
• High levels of insulin: Insulin is a hormone in the body that turns glucose (blood sugar) into energy. People with PMOS may have insulin resistance or high blood sugar levels, which means their body does not use insulin properly. This can lead to problems such as weight gain and conditions like type 2 diabetes and heart disease.

What are common symptoms of PMOS?

People with PMOS can have a wide range of signs and symptoms that vary from mild to severe and can change over time. Certain types of birth control pills can also mask PMOS symptoms, delaying diagnosis. 

• Having no period, skipping periods, or having long or missed periods
• Excess hair growth on the face and body (hirsutism)
• Thinning hair or hair loss (alopecia)
• Skin problems like acne, thick dark patches on the skin and skin tags
• Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
• Difficulty getting pregnant 
• Mental health concerns, including anxiety, depression and body image distress
• Sleep problems like obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and chronic daytime sleepiness
• Oily skin
• Difficulty with ovulation
• Darkening of skin in the neck or underarms (acanthosis nigricans)
• Irregular ovulation

How is PMOS diagnosed?

There is no single test to diagnose PMOS and the symptoms can be different from person to person. To be diagnosed with PMOS, you must have at least two of the following symptoms:

• Irregular or no periods
• High level of androgens
• Polycystic ovaries (when you develop multiple ovarian follicles, but they don’t mature)

If you have symptoms, see your health care provider or a specialist. Your provider will talk to you about your symptoms and medical history and perform a physical exam and/or pelvic exam.

They may also order additional tests based on your symptoms, including:

• Blood tests: Your provider may order blood tests to look at your hormone levels.
• Imaging tests: An abdominal or pelvic ultrasound can allow your provider to look at your ovaries, check the thickness of your uterine lining and look for other causes of symptoms.

Your provider may also rule out other conditions that can cause similar symptoms, such as thyroid disorders or elevated prolactin levels.

What are the long-term health risks of PMOS?

Many people with PMOS live healthy lives.

PMOS can increase your risk for:

• Type 2 diabetes
• High blood pressure
• High choldsterol
• Heart disease
• Endometrial cancer
• Sleep apnea
• Depression and anxiety

That’s why it’s important to find out about PMOS early and get treatment to manage the symptoms. While it is a lifelong condition, there are several treatment options to make it easier to handle.

Learn about the treatment and management of PMOS symptoms. 

To schedule an appointment with a PMOS specialist

If you have irregular periods, trouble getting pregnant, unwanted hair growth or other symptoms, don't ignore them. Early diagnosis can help prevent long-term complications.

Schedule an appointment with a Banner Health specialist. Our team offers personalized care, testing and treatment plans designed around your goals, including fertility support if needed.