Definition:
PCOS is an endocrine disturbance characterised by anovulation, amenorrhoea, hirsutism and infertility. It is caused by increased levels of testosterone, oestrogen and luteinising hormone (LH) and decreased secretion of follicle stimulating hormone (FSH). This hormonal imbalance is associated with problems in the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis and excessive stimulation by the adrenal gland.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome involves metabolic and cardiovascular risks linked to insulin resistance. These risks include increased glucose levels, type ll diabetes and high blood pressure.
Polycystic ovarian syndrome is associated with infertility, abnormal bleeding, increased incidences of pregnancy loss, and pregnancy-related complications. An estimated 5-10% of women of childbearing age are affected by PCOS and it is one of the leading causes of infertility. Post-menopausal women can also suffer from PCOS.
PCOS is not a discrete disease but rather a spectrum of symptomatology, pathology and laboratory findings. What has evolved is the concept of a self-perpetuating cycle in which the hypothalamus, pituitary, ovaries and adrenals all contribute to an endocrine imbalance. [1] There is also a relationship between insulin resistance and PCOS.[2]
The symptoms of PCOS vary widely from woman to woman. In addition to polycystic ovaries, symptoms include:
- infertility
- pelvic pain
- secondary amenorrhoea
- hirsutism
- obesity – weight gain usually around the waist
- hypercholesterolemia and dyslipidemia
- hypertension
- Type ll diabetes
- masculinisation including clitoral hypertrophy
- frontal balding
- deepening of the voice
- sleep apnoea
- depression and anxiety
- acne, oily skin, dandruff
- skin tags (raisin-like growths on the skin)
- Acanthosis Nigricans (Darkening and thickening of the skin occurring around the neck, groin, underarms or skin folds) [3]
Women with PCOS are at increased risk for developing non-alcoholic fatty liver disease.[4]
Researchers found a link between PCOS and other metabolic conditions such as obesity, high blood pressure and high levels of LDL cholesterol, all of which are risk factors for coronary heart disease.[5]
Even if specific symptoms are not causing an immediate problem, PCOS can have significant long-term effects, including diabetes and endometrial or breast cancer.[6]
PCOS was renamed PMOS in May 2026 [7]
On 12 May 2026, a Monash-led global consensus published in The Lancet recommended PMOS as the new name for PCOS. PMOS stands for polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome. The new name better reflects that the condition can involve hormones, metabolism, ovaries, skin, cycle timing, mental wellbeing and long-term health.
The rename does not mean your previous PCOS diagnosis was wrong or that you need a new diagnosis only because the wording has changed. During the transition, Australian GP notes, referrals, ultrasound reports, pathology forms and health websites may use PCOS, PMOS or both terms.
The name change better reflects the multi-faceted involvement of hormones, neurologic factors, metabolism, insulin sensitivity and other organs including the hyperthalamus, pituitary gland, ovaries, adrenal glands and digestive system.
Medical diagnosis in Australia:
PMOS is usually diagnosed through a GP-led review using the Rotterdam criteria. In adults, diagnosis generally needs two out of three features: irregular or absent ovulation, clinical or biochemical androgen excess, and polycystic ovarian morphology on ultrasound or AMH where appropriate.
Do polycystic ovaries mean I have PMOS?
No. Polycystic ovaries, also called PCO or PCOM, describe how the ovaries look on ultrasound. They do not prove PMOS without cycle changes, androgen signs or blood results, and exclusion of similar conditions.
What tests are used for PMOS or PCOS in Australia?
Your GP may arrange hormone blood tests, metabolic screening, thyroid and prolactin checks, and pelvic ultrasound when useful. Some adults may also have AMH tested. The right tests depend on age, symptoms, medicines, contraception use and fertility goals.
NOTE on naturopathic approaches:
As the condition is multi-factorial, your qualified naturopath may utilise functional testing as this provides more accurate results than blood pathology. The DUTCH assessment provides information about all hormones, including a breakdown of oestrogens which is not available via blood pathology, as well as adrenal function and your metabolic capacities. If you are interested in learning more about this test, please visit the website: https://dutchtest.com/education/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos where you can enquire about a trained practitioner in your area. Or ask your local naturopath if they are trained in this area of health.
The ‘alternative’ approach
- Correct insulin resistance through diet and supplementation of specific nutrients to regulate glucose metabolism
- Regulate adrenal function
- Regulate Hypothalamic – Pituitary endocrine function by balancing endorphins and moderating excess dopamine levels
- Herbal medicine to strengthen and tonify the uterus and ovaries while further balancing hormones
- Stimulate circulation to eliminate stagnation
- Regulate liver function to support proper cholesterol and hormone metabolism
- Stimulate and correct any GIT dysfunction to ensure proper absorption and metabolism of nutrients
- Weight loss and stimulation of basal metabolic rate through correct use of Keto, Zone or other individualised diets
Some researchers believe there may be a genetic involvement in developing PCOS/PMOS so requesting DNA test from your naturopath may be another option. It is often not a single gene that codes for a specific condition, but rather epigenetic changes or polymorphisms that affect metabolic pathways. Once identified, these can usually be addressed by a genetically trained naturopath.
One further consideration is the need to properly identify the metabolic and hormonal imbalances to clarify whether you are experiencing PCOS/PMOS, endometriosis or both.
[1] Seibel, M.M. (1990) p 61
[2] www.emedicinehealth.com
[3] Anderson & Kissane (1977) p 1731
[4] http://pcos.insulitelabs.com/
[5] http://pcos.insulitelabs.com/
[6] http://www.medifocus.com/guide
[7] https://fertility2family.com.au/pco-vs-pcos-differences-symptoms-treatments-explained/