PCOS, now called PMOS
A common hormone condition with a new name
PMOS is the new name for PCOS, a common hormone condition. It can cause irregular periods, extra hair, acne, weight gain and trouble getting pregnant. It also affects how the body handles sugar. It is lifelong, but it can be managed well. Dr Leng Meng Chik at KPJ Seremban Specialist Hospital diagnoses it and plans care with you.
Good to know
The 'cysts' in the old name are not true cysts. They are small follicles, which are eggs that did not fully grow. They are not dangerous and do not need to be removed.
See a doctor soon if you have
- No period for 3 months or more
- Hair growth that comes on fast, or a deeper voice
- Feeling very thirsty or peeing a lot
- Low mood that does not lift
If you have any of these, please see a doctor soon. For sudden, severe pain or heavy bleeding, go to the nearest emergency department.
Why did PCOS get a new name?
The old name made people think the problem was cysts on the ovaries. That was confusing. Many women with the condition do not have these, and it affects hormones and the whole body. Experts agreed on the new name in 2026. The condition and its care stay the same.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms differ from woman to woman. You may have only one or two of these:
- Irregular periods, or no periods
- Extra hair on the face, chest or back
- Acne or oily skin
- Thinning hair on the head
- Weight gain, often around the tummy
- Trouble getting pregnant
How is it diagnosed?
Dr Leng asks about your periods and looks for signs of high male hormones. Blood tests check hormone levels and rule out other causes, such as thyroid problems. An ultrasound scan may look at the ovaries. You need 2 of the 3 main signs for a diagnosis.
How is PMOS treated?
Care is planned around what bothers you most.
- Healthy food, regular activity and good sleep
- The pill, to make periods regular and help acne and hair
- Metformin, for some women, to help the body handle sugar
- Tablets to help you release an egg if you want a baby
Why does long-term health matter?
PMOS raises the chance of type 2 diabetes, high cholesterol and heart disease. Very few periods over a long time can affect the womb lining. Regular checks of your blood pressure, sugar and periods help catch problems early.
What else do women ask about PMOS?
Can I get pregnant if I have PMOS?
Yes. Most women with PMOS can get pregnant. It may take longer. Tablets that help you release an egg work for many women. If you need IVF, Dr Leng can tell you where to go next.
Is my PCOS diagnosis still correct?
Yes. PMOS is the same condition with a new name. The rules for diagnosis have not changed. You may see both names for a few years while doctors switch over.
Will PMOS go away?
PMOS is lifelong, but symptoms often change with age. Periods may become more regular as you get older. Good habits and the right treatment keep it under control.
Do I have to take the pill?
No. The pill is one choice for irregular periods and acne. There are other choices. Dr Leng explains each one so you can pick what suits you.
Dr Leng Meng ChikConsultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, MD (UNIMAS), MRCOG (UK). MMC 54266. KPJ Seremban Specialist Hospital. About Dr Leng
Sources
- International evidence-based guideline for PCOS (Monash University, 2023)
- NHS: Polycystic ovary syndrome
- Teede H et al. New name for PCOS: global consensus. The Lancet, May 2026
Related conditions
See Dr Leng about PMOS in Seremban.
Bring your questions. Dr Leng will explain what is going on and help you choose what to do next.