Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, commonly known as PCOS, will now be called a different name. Doctors say Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome, or PMOS, is more accurate and could help improve diagnosis. <\/p>\n
PMOS is a hormonal imbalance that occurs when the ovaries make excess hormones. It\u2019s characterized by fluctuations in hormones, with impacts on weight, metabolic and mental health, skin and the reproductive system, according to the Endocrine Society<\/a>. Roughly one in eight women are affected by PMOS during their reproductive years \u2014 but estimates find that 70% of patients<\/a> go undiagnosed. <\/p>\n Dr. Megan Evans, an OB-GYN and clinical director of Tufts Medical Center\u2019s Women\u2019s Health and Longevity Program, said last week\u2019s<\/a> name change was led by clinicians but also patients and their experiences.<\/p>\n \u201cThe thing about PCOS is, it\u2019s sort of an inaccurate name,\u201d said Evans. \u201cThe goal really here is to not change how this is diagnosed, but change how it\u2019s described so it captures a wider audience.\u201d<\/p>\n The previous name of PCOS focused more on ovaries and implied the presence of ovarian cysts, which is not a symptom of the condition, often contributing to missed diagnoses and inadequate treatment. <\/p>\n The name change comes after 14 years of collaboration between 50 organizations and thousands of patients and health professionals to develop a new name for the condition.<\/p>\n Rae Estapa of Somerville, who is a PMOS patient, said her diagnosis has affected most aspects of her life.<\/p>\n \u201cIt has shaped everything from my health, nutrition, identity, social life, especially topics of motherhood,\u201d she said. <\/p>\n PMOS is a leading cause of infertility. <\/p>\n