Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome: What Is It?

First published July 2020
Updated August 2026

Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) is common endocrine disorder that can cause irregular menses (periods), unwanted hair growth and acne, and weight changes. The ovaries receive signals from increased luteinizing hormone (from the brain) or increased insulin (from the pancreas), which lead them to make extra testosterone, as well as other hormones like estrogen and progesterone.

This condition used to be called polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), but its name recently got an update. The prior name focused attention just on the ovary, when the condition affects multiple systems of the body: not just the ovary, but also the metabolism, skin and brain, which the new name helps to describe.

While all genetic females produce some testosterone, those with PMOS have slightly higher than normal levels. These hormonal changes can lead to the ovaries not ovulating (releasing an egg) regularly each month, which then leads to changes in periods. Increased testosterone levels may also cause worse than normal acne or excessive body hair.

PMOS affects about 6-8% of adolescents worldwide and affect individuals of all races and ethnicities. It is the most common cause of irregular menstrual cycles. The exact cause of PMOS is not fully understood, but genetics/having a family history of PMOS can play a role.

Signs and Symptoms of PCOS

• Irregular menstrual cycles: no periods, infrequent periods or heavy bleeding
• Excess testosterone affects: Severe acne or excessive hair growth on the face, belly or low back
• Metabolic effects: Gaining weight or difficulty losing excess weight, darkening of the skin along neck creases, groin or underneath breasts

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosing PMOS involves a healthcare provider evaluating adolescents with abnormal periods, acne and/or excessive hair growth. This may include a physical examination and lab tests.

PMOS cannot be cured, but it can be managed effectively. Treatment goals for PMOS focus on managing menstrual cycles, addressing symptoms like acne and excessive hair growth and reducing associated health risks. Eating balanced meals and exercising regularly is very helpful, as it helps regulate insulin and testosterone levels and may help with weight loss if needed. Those with PMOS (just like all adolescents!) should aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate physical activity a day and should eat healthy, balanced meals.

Birth control pills or other hormonal medications are commonly prescribed to help manage irregular menstrual bleeding, unwanted hair growth and to lower testosterone levels. Hair removal methods such as shaving, waxing or laser treatments can be used to manage excess hair growth.

Complications and Long-Term Care

Without proper treatment, PMOS can lead to complications like uterine cancer. Other disorders are associated with PMOS include type 2 diabetes, obstructive sleep apnea, fatty liver disease, depression, high blood pressure and heart disease, so it is important your health care providers know about your PMOS diagnosis, as they may increase how often you are screened for these conditions.

Individuals with PMOS may experience difficulties getting pregnant and it may take longer or require assistance to become pregnant due to not ovulating regularly. A diagnosis of PMOS does not mean you will have trouble conceiving, so birth control should still be used if you are having sex and do not want to become pregnant.

Timely intervention is essential, as early diagnosis and management can reduce long-term risks associated with PMOS. Having a healthy lifestyle also plays a significant role in controlling symptoms once treatment is initiated.

Learn more about our Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology team or request an appointment with a pediatric gynecologist today.