Millions of women diagnosed with polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) may benefit from annual NHS check-ups and earlier identification according to new preliminary advice from the health regulatory body.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE) recommends that women living with PMOS, previously known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), should undergo yearly reviews to monitor the persistent hormonal disorder associated with diabetes, heart problems, fertility issues, and mental health challenges. Despite affecting around one in eight women, medical professionals often overlook this condition, leading to prolonged struggles in managing symptoms.
Sharon Mansfield, a member of the committee involved in developing the NICE guidance, shared her experience of doctors dismissing her irregular menstrual cycles and weight and mental health issues for ten years. Mansfield expressed relief that the new guidance could result in earlier and more attentive treatment for the estimated 3-4 million PMOS-afflicted women in the UK.
The draft guideline includes detailed information on recognizing and diagnosing PMOS to enhance timely identification. NICE advises healthcare providers to acknowledge that PMOS might be more prevalent among Black, Asian, and mixed-ethnicity women when evaluating symptoms.
Upon diagnosis, women would be offered yearly health assessments to track symptoms and identify early signs of diseases like diabetes, enabling physicians to suggest lifestyle modifications before severe complications arise. Additionally, NHS support for women planning pregnancy would include guidance on managing the condition and information on fertility treatments, including IVF where suitable.
The shift from PCOS to PMOS was part of a global initiative by experts to dispel misconceptions surrounding the disorder and acknowledge its extensive “metabolic consequences” affecting the whole body, not just the ovaries.
Marie Anne Ledingham, a consultant clinical advisor specializing in women’s and reproductive health at NICE, emphasized that the annual review represents a crucial advancement in granting women continuous care. Ledingham highlighted the significance of the new guideline in enhancing care consistency, raising awareness of the condition, and facilitating earlier diagnosis and treatment.
NICE is seeking input from healthcare professionals, patients, and the general public on the draft guideline during the consultation period running from July 1 to August 11. The final guideline on PMOS is anticipated to be released in December 2026.
