Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome
Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) is the new name for polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)and more accurately describes the condition as due to a hormonal imbalance, related to insulin resistance. It is a common condition that is estimated to affect over 3% of women worldwide; some studies suggest that up to 18% of women may be affected, many without having been diagnosed. It is usually diagnosed in young women in their teenage years or twenties and can lead to irregular or no periods, excess body or facial hair, acne and overweight or obesity.
It is easy to understand how the problems it can cause can be very upsetting at this time of life. Treatments are directed at correcting the hormonal imbalance and encouraging weight loss. In my experience, many women with PMOS find it difficult to lose weight, and this can be for a number of reasons. PMOS can be associated with low self-esteem and a sense of depression, which can make it difficult to make lifestyle changes and can sometimes drive unhealthy ‘comfort’ eating. In addition, the high insulin levels make it very difficult for people to lose weight, especially if they follow a standard low fat, high carbohydrate diet, that just stimulates yet more insulin to be reduced. Metformin (a treatment for type 2 diabetes that reduces insulin resistance) can be very effective in restoring regular periods and a low glycaemic index diet (ie avoiding highly refined carbohydrates) has also been shown to beneficial. Individuals who are able to lose weight will often find that their periods (and their fertility) return, as their hormones re-establish a normal balance.