Key facts
- Up to 4 million women with irregular periods should be investigated for PMOS.
- PMOS, previously known as polycystic ovarian syndrome, affects an estimated 13% of women of reproductive age.
- Symptoms include irregular periods, excess testosterone, and ovaries with multiple small follicles.
- The condition is associated with increased risks of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and mental health issues.
- New draft guidance from NICE recommends annual reviews for diagnosed patients.
- Laser hair removal and light therapies for excess hair growth are not recommended due to cost-effectiveness.
Up to 4 million women in the UK with irregular periods should be investigated for polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), according to new draft guidance from the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
PMOS, previously known as polycystic ovarian syndrome, is estimated to affect up to 13% of women of reproductive age. Symptoms include irregular periods, excess testosterone, and ovaries with multiple small follicles. The condition is associated with a greater risk of developing type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, sleep apnoea, fatty liver disease, mental health issues, and complications in pregnancy.
NICE states that despite affecting millions of women, PMOS is "frequently underdiagnosed and inconsistently managed." The new draft guidance extends to girls over 10, adult women, trans men, and non-binary individuals not undergoing gender reassignment therapy or surgery. Patients with suspected PMOS should undergo blood tests for hormone levels and potentially ultrasounds. The guidance emphasizes that PMOS should not be discounted in menopausal women or those with eating disorders, and notes its higher prevalence among Black, Asian, and mixed-ethnicity women.
Diagnosed individuals should receive an annual review to monitor symptoms and associated health risks. While IVF should be offered to eligible PMOS patients, treatments like laser hair removal for excess hair growth are not recommended due to cost-effectiveness, which NICE estimates could cost the NHS up to £100 million annually in England.
The draft guidance, based on international evidence, is open for consultation until August 11, 2026, with final guidelines expected in December 2026. Experts highlight the importance of early diagnosis and consistent care, while also noting the potential challenge of ensuring adequate NHS resources for implementation.