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Understanding Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS)

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A Wholistic Approach to Your Health and Wellbeing

Living with a long term health condition can feel overwhelming, especially when symptoms vary and reliable information is hard to find.

Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS), previously known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), is a common and complex hormonal condition that affects millions of people worldwide. Despite its prevalence, it is often misunderstood and underdiagnosed.

The good news is that with the right support, clear health information, and a personalised care approach, people living with Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome can manage their condition effectively, improve their wellbeing, and feel confident in their health journey.

What Is Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS)?

Previously known as polycystic ovary syndrome, PMOS affects around one in eight people with ovaries and is now recognised as a whole-body condition, not just a reproductive issue 1,2. It involves hormonal and metabolic changes that can affect many areas of health, including:

  • Irregular or absent periods

  • Fertility and reproductive health

  • Skin and hair changes

  • Energy, sleep and mood

  • Long‑term risks such as type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease 2,3

Each person’s experience is different. Some may have only a few symptoms, while others experience broader health impacts. This is why personalised, ongoing care is important.

Why the Name Change Matters

The shift from PCOS to PMOS reflects a more accurate understanding of the condition. It recognises that multiple hormone systems and metabolic processes are involved; not just the ovaries².

For people living with PMOS, this change offers something powerful: validation. It acknowledges that what they experience is real, complex, and deserving of comprehensive, multidisciplinary care. It also helps shift conversations away from stigma and towards whole person health.

Emotional Wellbeing: A Core Part of Care

PMOS does not only affect physical health. It can also have a significant impact on emotional wellbeing. Research consistently shows that people living with PMOS/PCOS have a higher likelihood of experiencing anxiety, depression and low self-esteem compared to the general population 4,5. Some studies suggest the risk of depression and anxiety may be two to three times higher⁴.

This is not “just stress” or something to ignore. The connection is real and can relate to:

  • Hormonal and metabolic changes that affect mood

  • The impact of visible symptoms such as acne or hair changes

  • Challenges around fertility or body image

  • Experiences of feeling misunderstood or not heard in healthcare settings 4,6

Supporting your emotional wellbeing

Looking after your mental health is an important part of managing PMOS. Strategies that can help include:

  • Talking to someone you trust. This may be a family member, friend, GP, or mental health professional

  • Seeking professional support early, such as a psychologist or counsellor

  • Staying active and connected. Regular movement and social connection can support mood

  • Learning about the condition. Understanding what is happening in your body can reduce uncertainty

  • Being kind to yourself. Recognising that this is a health condition, not a personal failing

If you notice ongoing low mood, anxiety, or feeling overwhelmed, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional. Support is available, and early care can make a meaningful difference⁷.

Working in Partnership with Your Doctor

Good care for PMOS works best as a partnership. You are the expert in your own life, and your healthcare team brings medical expertise. When these come together, care is more effective and meaningful.

Shared decision making; where you and your healthcare professional make decisions together, is a key part of high-quality care and is linked to better health outcomes and satisfaction⁸.

Practical tips for getting the most out of appointments

Before your appointment:

  • Write down your main concerns or symptoms

  •  Keep a simple record of changes (e.g. periods, mood, energy)

  • List any questions you want to ask

During your appointment:

  • Share what matters most to you (e.g. symptom relief, fertility, long term health)

  • Ask questions if something is unclear

  • Discuss options, including benefits, risks and alternatives

You might ask:

  • What are my options?

  • What are the benefits and possible risks?

  • What happens if I choose to wait or try something different?

After your appointment:

  • Take time to reflect on what was discussed

  • Follow up if you need more clarification

  • Keep track of how treatments or strategies are working for you

Remember, you have the right to be involved in decisions about your healthcare. Care should be respectful, understandable and aligned with your goals and preferences⁸.

Managing PMOS: A Whole Person Approach

There is no single treatment for PMOS. Management focuses on supporting overall health and addressing what matters most to each person.

This may include:

  • Lifestyle approaches (movement, nutrition, sleep)

  • Medical treatments when needed

  • Emotional and psychological support

  • Regular health checks to monitor long term risks

Small, sustainable changes often have the greatest impact over time. Care plans may evolve as your needs change across different life stages.

You Are Not Alone

Many people living with PMOS describe feeling isolated or misunderstood, particularly before receiving a diagnosis. This is a common experience, and it highlights the importance of accessible, reliable information and supportive care⁴.

Connecting with others through support groups, online communities or peer networks can reduce isolation and provide reassurance. Knowing that others share similar experiences can be both comforting and empowering.

Westfund: Helping You Live Well, Every Day

Members can easily explore the range of Westfund services that support your physical and mental health by visiting the Health and Wellbeing section of the Westfund website or via the Westfund+ app.

From there, you can browse available programs in Westfund’s Health Co-op, such as mental wellbeing support, exercise and chronic condition programs.

If you’re unsure where to start, you can speak with your GP, or the Westfund members support team, who can help guide you to the services that best match your needs and health goals. Taking that first step can make it easier to access the support that helps you stay well now and into the future.

A Trusted Source of Information

Access to high-quality information is an important part of self-management. Platforms such as AskPMOS provide evidence based, easy to understand guidance developed by experts and people with lived experience. 1,9

These resources can help you:

  • Better understand your condition

  • Prepare for appointments

  • Explore treatment and management options

  • Feel more confident in your healthcare journey

  • Access peer support

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS)

What is Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS)?

PMOS is a complex, whole‑body health condition (previously known as PCOS) that involves hormonal and metabolic changes. It can affect many areas of health, not just the ovaries, which is why a broad, whole‑person approach to care is important.

Can people live well with PMOS?

Yes. With the right support, many people live well and feel confident managing their health. Access to clear, evidence‑based information - such as resources from AskPMOS - can help build understanding, reduce uncertainty, and support informed health decisions over time. 1,9

What kind of care is important for PMOS?

A balanced approach that looks after both physical and emotional wellbeing is key. Working in partnership with a trusted healthcare team can help ensure care is personalised, supportive, and aligned with what matters most to you.

What small steps can make a difference?

Small, consistent actions can have a meaningful impact over time. These may include:

  • Asking questions about your health

  • Understanding your care and treatment options

  • Seeking support early when needed

These approaches are linked with better health experiences and outcomes⁸.

Where should I start if I think I have PMOS?

Connecting with reliable information and a healthcare professional is an important first step. This may include speaking with your GP and accessing trusted resources to guide your next steps.

Can PMOS be managed long term?

Yes. With the right knowledge, support, and personalised care, it is possible to:

  • Improve overall wellbeing

  • Reduce long‑term health risks

  • Live a full and healthy life

Early understanding and ongoing care play an important role in achieving these outcomes. 1,2  

The information provided is general in nature and does not replace professional medical advice.

References

1.      Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation. AskPMOS https://www.askpmos.org/

2.      Jean Hailes for Women’s Health. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), now PMOS.  https://www.jeanhailes.org.au/health-topics/pcos/

3.      Johns Hopkins Medicine. Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS).  https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos

4.      Cooney LG, et al. Depression and anxiety in PCOS: a systematic review and meta‑analysis.  https://pmos-pcos.com/pcos-mental-health/

5.      Integrated Health Specialists Australia. PCOS and Mental Health: Anxiety, Depression and Body Image. https://www.integratedhealthspecialists.com.au/pcos-and-mental-health/

6.      Vox Mental Health. PMOS and Mental Health: How it affects mood, anxiety and depression.  https://www.voxmentalhealth.com/blogs/pmos-and-mental-health-how-polyendocrine-metabolic-ovarian-syndrome-affects-mood-anxiety-and-depression

7.      Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation. Emotional Wellbeing and PCOS Resource. https://www.mchri.org.au/wp-content/uploads/2023/09/Emotional-Wellbeing.pdf

8.      Australian Commission on Safety and Quality in Health Care. Being involved in decisions about your care. Available from: https://www.safetyandquality.gov.au/supporting-your-health-care/being-involved-decisions-about-your-care

9.      Monash University. PMOS Guideline and AskPMOS resources.  https://www.monash.edu/medicine/mchri/pcos