Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS)
Formerly known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) is a hormonal condition caused by a combination of genetic and metabolic factors that disrupt ovulation — the body’s process of producing and releasing eggs from the ovaries.
People with PMOS often have irregular or absent periods, signs of elevated testosterone such as acne or excess facial or body hair, and insulin resistance, which can contribute to weight gain and increase the risk of diabetes.
Indicators of PMOS/PCOS
Symptoms
The hormonal imbalances experienced by people with PMOS can cause the following symptoms:
What causes PMOS?
The cause of PMOS is not completely understood. It is clear that there is a genetic basis to the condition, as a person is more likely to develop the condition if their immediate family member has it.
High androgen levels and high insulin levels may also contribute to the condition, creating a cycle that can make symptoms harder to manage.
Diagnostic testing for PMOS
Your medical history and an ultrasound are necessary for diagnosing PMOS/PCOS. However, your physician may need other tests to confirm the diagnosis such as:
How does PMOS affect fertility?
PMOS is a leading cause of female infertility, yet many women with the condition go on to conceive and have healthy pregnancies. The impact of PCOS on fertility can include:
People with PMOS often benefit from early evaluation and management. Consulting a fertility specialist can provide personalized treatment options to support your reproductive goals
Treatment for polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome
For people who are trying to conceive
Your fertility treatment for PMOS will depend on your specific needs.
Carrying excess weight can make PMOS symptoms harder to manage, and even modest weight loss may help improve hormonal balance. If your goal is to become pregnant, your doctor may prescribe a medication to stimulate ovulation. Common fertility treatments include oral medications to help with ovulation such as clomiphene citrate (Clomid, Serophene) and letrozole (Femara). Your doctor may prescribe a second oral medicine, such as metformin, which can help make the body more sensitive to insulin and lead to more regular ovulation.
Historically, Clomid was the first line of treatment for PMOS. Currently, letrozole is considered the standard because it has been proven to offer a higher chance of pregnancy. Your doctor can help determine which option is right for you. It’s important to note that if you haven’t conceived after three to four cycles of ovulation induction, you should consider a different course of treatment, such as intrauterine insemination (IUI) or in vitro fertilization (IVF).
Lifestyle changes, such as eating a balanced diet and staying active, can greatly help reduce PMOS symptoms alongside medical treatment. Over-the-counter supplements like inositol or prescription medication like metformin help lower insulin resistance and stabilize irregular cycles, even before starting ovulation-stimulating medication.
For people who aren’t actively trying to conceive
An early PMOS diagnosis matters, even if pregnancy isn’t part of your plans right now. PMOS affects more than fertility. It’s tied to metabolic health, hormone balance, and long-term wellbeing. Without a diagnosis, related health issues like insulin resistance, irregular ovulation, and metabolic changes can go unaddressed for years. Getting evaluated early gives you and your doctor more time to manage these issues before they become harder to treat. It also means you’ll have a clearer picture of your reproductive health if you decide to grow your family.
FAQs
Learn more about PMOS
Success stories from patients with PMOS
Patient Story
Sara & Chad
Patient Story
Jessica & Kevin
Patient Story
Dani & Corey
Patient Story
