Why the name changed
The old name suggested the condition is defined by cysts on the ovaries. The small round structures seen on ultrasound are actually immature follicles, not cysts in the clinical sense, and not every woman with the condition has them.
The condition also affects hormones and metabolism across the body, including insulin resistance, weight, blood sugar, cholesterol, and mood. The consensus group felt the old name led to confusion, stigma, and delayed diagnosis.
What the new name means
Each word explained
- Polyendocrine: several hormone systems are involved, including insulin and androgens
- Metabolic: effects on blood sugar, weight, cholesterol, and heart health
- Ovarian: ovulation and follicle development are still central
- Syndrome: a cluster of features rather than a single disease
What stays the same
- Your existing diagnosis remains valid
- Reports, prescriptions, and insurance forms may still say PCOS for some time
- Diagnostic criteria have not changed yet
- Treatment is still guided by your symptoms and goals
What a pelvic ultrasound shows
Ultrasound is one part of the assessment, alongside your menstrual history and blood tests. Your gynaecologist combines all three to reach a diagnosis.
- Number and size of follicles in each ovary
- Ovarian volume
- Thickness of the uterine lining
- Other causes of irregular periods, such as fibroids or cysts
When to get checked
- Periods that are irregular, infrequent, or absent
- Excess facial or body hair, or acne along the jawline
- Difficulty getting pregnant
- Weight gain that is hard to explain, or a family history of diabetes
If you already have a PCOS diagnosis, the name change is a good prompt to ask your doctor whether your blood sugar, cholesterol, and blood pressure have been checked recently.
Common questions
Do I need a new diagnosis now that PCOS is called PMOS?
No. PMOS is a new name for the same condition. Your existing diagnosis remains valid and no immediate action is needed.
Will my reports say PCOS or PMOS?
Both may be used for some time. The transition to the new name is planned over about three years.
Is ultrasound still needed to diagnose PMOS?
Ultrasound remains one part of the assessment, along with your menstrual history and blood tests. Your doctor decides which tests you need.
Does PMOS mean I have cysts on my ovaries?
No. What ultrasound shows are small immature follicles, not true cysts. This was one reason for the name change.
PCOS / PMOS ultrasound in HSR Layout, Bengaluru
All scans at Nitara Scans and Diagnostics are personally performed by Dr. Nayana N Sunku, DMRD, DNB Radiology, Fetal Medicine Fellow, in a private setting at 24th A Cross Rd, Garden Layout, Sector 2, HSR Layout, Bengaluru, Karnataka 560102.