PCOS renamed polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) for its endocrine and metabolic impacts
Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) has officially been renamed polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS). The name change reduces the emphasis from cysts and reflects the condition as a complex, long-term hormonal or endocrine disorder.
The new name follows an international consensus led by clinicians, researchers and people with lived experience, and aims to improve understanding, reduce stigma and support earlier diagnosis.
For general practice, the change provides an opportunity to reinforce a whole-person approach to care, recognising the hormonal, metabolic and reproductive impacts of the condition.
Familiarity with the updated terminology will help support consistent communication and ensure patients continue to receive high-quality, evidence-based care.
Why the name has changed
The term polycystic ovarian syndrome, commonly referred to as PCOS, has been widely recognised as reductive and potentially misleading, by placing focus only on the ovaries. Many people diagnosed with the condition do not have polycystic ovaries, while others with polycystic ovaries do not meet the diagnostic criteria for the syndrome.
The new name, polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), more accurately reflects the multiple body systems involved and the diverse ways the condition can present.
The name change aims to:
improve understanding of the condition among health professionals and the community
support earlier recognition and diagnosis
reduce stigma and misconceptions associated with the previous name
encourage comprehensive, multidisciplinary care.
What this name change means for general practice
General practitioners (GPs) remains central to the early recognition, diagnosis and long-term management of PMOS.
Patients presenting with signs and symptoms of PMOS may also benefit from lifestyle support, mental health support and coordination of multidisciplinary care where appropriate.
Many patients will continue to be familiar with the term PCOS while the new terminology is adopted across healthcare systems.
Health professionals are encouraged to explain that PMOS is the same condition under a new name, chosen to better reflect current scientific understanding of its endocrine and metabolic features. Consistent use of the updated terminology can help improve patient understanding, support shared decision-making and encourage a more holistic approach to long-term management of the condition.
Referring patients with PMOS for multidisciplinary care
QENDOCare
GPs can refer eligible patients to QENDOCare, a free telehealth program delivered by QENDO Australia and funded by Brisbane South PHN.
The free, 12-week program supports adults with diagnosed or suspected endometriosis, adenomyosis, chronic pelvic pain and PMOS through a coordinated multidisciplinary team, including nurses, pelvic health physiotherapists, dietitians, counsellors and peer support workers.
QENDOCare supports GPs to manage their patient’s care through becoming a referral partner.
QENDOCare can work with you one-off, or you can choose to become a Referring Partner so you can collaborate more closely. Becoming a referring partner is easy.
Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinics
The Australian Government's Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinics provide multidisciplinary, evidence-based care for people experiencing persistent pelvic pain, as well as menopause and perimenopause symptoms.
The Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinic in Oxley strengthens access to specialised GP care for women’s health services* in the region and aims to reduce delays in diagnosis and treatment for conditions that have long been under recognised.
To refer to the clinic, visit the Blunder Road Oxley Medical and Dental Centre website or phone (07) 3295 5555.
More information for health professionals
Clinical guidance, referral pathways and further information about the name change is available through the following resources.
PMOS assessment, management and clinical guidance
Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation – International PMOS Guideline and clinician resources
Information on the change from PCOS to PMOS
RACGP – PCOS officially renamed PMOS
Health services to complement GP care
Australian Government – Endometriosis and Pelvic Pain Clinics
QENDOCare – Information for clinicians and referrals
Resources for patients
Queensland Health – Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) overview
Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation – PMOS resources for community
*We acknowledge that sex and gender are distinct concepts and that sex-specific health issues covered through this service affect women and gender diverse peoples.