8 Common Misconceptions About PMOS

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), commonly seen in women of reproductive age, affects not only reproductive health but also hormone balance, the ovaries and metabolic processes. Op. Dr. Zeynep Yılmaz, a Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology at Anadolu Sağlık Merkezi Hospital, notes that the condition was recently renamed to better reflect its multifaceted nature, updating the disease name to Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovary Syndrome (PMOS).

Yılmaz emphasizes that lifestyle changes play an important role in PMOS management, noting that balanced nutrition, regular exercise and maintaining a healthy body weight can have positive effects on insulin resistance and hormonal balance.

Lifestyle changes provide long-term protection
Drawing attention to the fact that PMOS can be associated with metabolic problems such as insulin resistance, inflammation and obesity, Yılmaz stated that healthy nutrition and regular exercise can help reduce long-term health risks such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and fatty liver disease.

Noting that reducing body weight by 5-10 percent can have positive effects on menstrual regularity and ovulation in some patients, Yılmaz said that lifestyle changes are an important part of the treatment process.

Watch for menstrual intervals exceeding 35 days
Yılmaz, noting that menstrual irregularity due to ovulation disorders is one of the most common symptoms of PMOS, said that situations such as menstrual periods occurring at intervals longer than 35 days, occurring fewer than eight times a year or stopping completely should be evaluated.

Excessive hair growth, stubborn acne, oily skin, hair thinning, difficulty losing weight, frequent hunger and sweet cravings can also be among the symptoms associated with PMOS. Yılmaz noted that dark-colored, velvety skin thickening visible on the neck, armpits and groin may point to insulin resistance, and that difficulty conceiving, fatigue, sleep apnea and mood changes may also accompany the condition.

Op. Dr. Zeynep Yılmaz, Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynecology, explained 8 common misconceptions about PMOS as follows:

Misconception 1: Every woman with PMOS has cysts in the ovaries
The term "polycystic" in PMOS can be misleading. The structures seen in the ovaries are not real cysts but underdeveloped follicles. This appearance may not be seen in every patient and does not alone establish a PMOS diagnosis. Therefore, the absence of cysts on ultrasound does not mean the person does not have PMOS.

Misconception 2: PMOS is only seen in overweight women
While weight gain is common in PMOS, it does not occur in every patient. PMOS can be seen in thin or normal-weight women and can be accompanied by metabolic problems such as insulin resistance. For this reason, not being overweight does not rule out the possibility of PMOS.

Misconception 3: It is possible to completely eliminate PMOS
PMOS is a chronic health condition. While it may not completely disappear, symptoms can be controlled and risks associated with the disease can be reduced through lifestyle changes and personalized treatment approaches. Therefore, claims that PMOS can be completely cured with certain diets or supplements should be approached with caution.

Misconception 4: Women with PMOS cannot have children
PMOS can make pregnancy difficult due to menstrual irregularity but is not an obstacle to having children. Many women with PMOS can become pregnant naturally or, when necessary, through lifestyle changes and ovulation-supporting treatments. A PMOS diagnosis does not mean the person cannot have children.

Misconception 5: The only treatment for PMOS is birth control pills
Birth control pills can help control some symptoms such as menstrual irregularity and hair growth, but PMOS management is not limited to this treatment alone. A comprehensive approach that includes nutrition and exercise should be adopted while considering insulin resistance, metabolic risks and long-term health problems, and when necessary, the treatment should be supported with personalized methods.

Misconception 6: PMOS only affects reproductive health
PMOS is a multifaceted health issue that is not limited to menstrual regularity and fertility and can affect hormones and metabolic processes. In the long term, it can be associated with type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease, fatty liver disease and mental health problems. For this reason, evaluating PMOS only from a gynecological perspective may cause other associated health risks to be overlooked.

Misconception 7: If I lose weight, PMOS will be completely resolved
Reducing body weight by 5-10 percent can improve menstrual irregularity and ovulation problems in some patients but does not completely eliminate PMOS. Genetic and hormonal factors other than weight play a role in the development of the disease. Additionally, since PMOS can make weight loss difficult, it is incorrect to blame people who cannot lose weight for not trying hard enough.

Misconception 8: Having irregular periods definitely means you have PMOS
While menstrual irregularity is one of the common symptoms of PMOS, it is not sufficient alone to establish a diagnosis. Thyroid disease, stress and other hormonal problems can also affect the menstrual cycle. Therefore, a PMOS diagnosis should be made not based on a single symptom but after necessary evaluations and ruling out other possible causes.

Regular check-ups are important
Since PMOS symptoms can vary from person to person, it is important for people experiencing similar complaints to consult a healthcare center. Early evaluation and personalized treatment approaches can help control symptoms and manage long-term health risks.