What is PMOS/PCOS?
Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS)/Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects how the ovaries work. Despite the name, you don’t actually need to have cysts on your ovaries to be diagnosed with PMOS/PCOS.
PMOS/PCOS affects around 1 in 10 women or people assigned female at birth and often starts during the teenage years or early twenties.
What are the main features of PMOS/PCOS?
You may be diagnosed with PMOS/PCOS if you have two out of three of the following:
- Irregular or absent periods – due to infrequent ovulation
- Higher levels of male hormones (androgens) – which may cause excess facial/body hair, acne, or hair thinning
- Polycystic ovaries – seen on ultrasound; the ovaries may be larger and have many small follicles (not harmful)
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms vary from person to person and can include:
- Irregular periods or no periods at all
- Acne or oily skin
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Excess hair growth (hirsutism) on the face, chest, back or buttocks
- Hair thinning or scalp hair loss
- Mood changes, low energy or poor body image
Not everyone with PMOS/PCOS has all of these symptoms.
What causes PMOS/PCOS?
The exact cause is unknown, but factors include:
- Hormonal imbalance – high levels of insulin and androgens (male hormones)
- Genetics – it can run in families
- Insulin resistance – where the body’s cells don’t respond properly to insulin, leading to increased hormone production
How is PMOS/PCOS diagnosed?
Your doctor may carry out the following:
- Discussion of symptoms and medical history
- Blood tests – to check hormone levels
- Pelvic ultrasound – to look for polycystic ovaries
Managing Symptoms
While there is no cure for PMOS/PCOS, many of the symptoms can be managed effectively with lifestyle adjustments, medication, and targeted treatments.
Lifestyle changes
- Healthy diet and regular exercise can improve insulin sensitivity and hormone balance
- Modest weight loss (5–10%) can help restore ovulation
Medications
- Hormonal contraception – e.g. the pill, patch or coil to regulate periods and reduce acne or hair growth
- Metformin – improves insulin resistance and may help regulate periods
- Fertility medications – such as clomiphene or letrozole if you’re trying to conceive
- Anti-androgens – like spironolactone to reduce hair growth or acne
Cosmetic treatments
- For unwanted hair (e.g. waxing, laser hair removal)
- Dermatologist support for acne
Does PMOS/PCOS affect fertility?
Yes, PMOS/PCOS can make it harder to get pregnant due to irregular ovulation. However, many people with PMOS/PCOS do conceive naturally or with the help of fertility treatments.
Does PMOS/PCOS affect long-term health?
If unmanaged, PMOS/PCOS can increase the risk of:
- Type 2 diabetes
- High blood pressure and high cholesterol
- Sleep apnoea
- Depression or anxiety
- Endometrial cancer (due to irregular shedding of the womb lining)
At WWWW, we focus not just on symptom relief but also on long-term health and prevention. Early diagnosis and regular monitoring can help reduce these risks.
When should I see a doctor?
See a doctor if you:
- Have irregular or no periods
- Are struggling with acne or excess hair growth
- Are having difficulty getting pregnant
- Have concerns about weight gain, mood, or energy
Supporting Your Wellbeing
We believe that managing PMOS/PCOS is about more than just medical treatment—it’s about living well. Our approach includes:
- Personalised care plans tailored to your symptoms and health goals
- Nutritional advice to support hormonal balance and weight management
- Hormonal treatments to regulate cycles and reduce symptoms
- Emotional support to help navigate the mental health challenges PMOS/PCOS can bring
Living with PMOS/PCOS
While it can sometimes feel overwhelming, understanding your symptoms and finding the right support can make a significant difference. Living with PMOS/PCOS can sometimes feel isolating, but you are not alone. At WWWW, we are here to support you every step of the way with compassionate care and expert advice.
Book a consultation with us today to start your journey towards better health and wellbeing.
