PCOS is now PMOS: why this rebrand is so important

Written By Ceda Jarick

The term PCOS, Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome, narrowed the conversation and our viewpoint on this very common condition affecting Women. The new name Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) reflects the condition so much better. The ‘cysts’ on the ovaries are not actually cysts, but Immature Follicles that produce hormones (Androgens and AMH). PCOS/PMOS is not just about the Ovary, but includes Endocrine (hormonal) and Metabolic changes:

  • Insulin resistance and problems with blood sugar regulation

  • Androgen excess - leading to symptoms like acne and increased hair growth on the face and body

  • Inflammation

  • Ovarian dysfunction & Irregular Ovulation, affecting fertility and menstrual cycles

  • Altered Stress Hormone signalling, reduced stress resilience, anxiety and mood swings

    In fact, your specialist can diagnose PCOS/PMOS with no cysts on the ovaries! Confusing, I know. To be diagnosed you need 2 of the following 3 signs:

  • Irregular menstrual cycles (>35 days, <8 periods per year), or Primary Amenorrhoea (no period by 15 years of age)

  • High Androgens (Free Androgen Index or Testosterone high on bloods), increased body hair growth, decreased head hair growth.

  • Ultrasound showing more than 20 follicles on each ovary or enlarged ovaries.

Chinese Medicine recognises patterns of symptoms and signs within people. The patterns I might see in a PCOS/PMOS patient depends upon the symptoms and signs, and influences the treatment I choose.

  • Digestion and gut health are almost always involved, and may include the idea of Dampness (problems with increased biofilm & changes to the good bacteria of the gut, fluid filled follicles in the ovary)

  • Liver Qi stagnation (emotional and nervous system dysregulation, stress, irregular menstrual cycles)

  • Blood stasis (problems with circulation in menstruation, pelvic pain)

  • Kidney deficiency (the Kidneys relate to the ovaries, deficiency may lead to immature or poor quality eggs or no ovulation)

  • Heat (inflammation)

Like most things Chinese Medicine, Self-Care is about restoring Rhythm and Alignment with the natural cycles of our body. Sleep, Nutrition and Hydration, Movement, Nervous System, Menstrual cycle regularity are all considered as Chinese Medicine treats holistically.

The Pillars of Self-Care for PMOS

  1. Blood sugar stability

    • Prioritise protein and fibre

    • Eat regularly

    • Replace refined carbohydrates (white bread, white pasta, baked goods and sugary treats) with higher fibre or higher protein options (sweet potato, legume pasta, wholegrain pasta, wholemeal bread, quinoa). Fill up on vegetables and eat grains in smaller portions.

    • Go for a walk after meals

    • Increase muscle mass with some strength training

    • Avoid ‘dieting’ and the ‘restriction’ mindset when it comes to food

  2. Focus on improving sleep

    People with PCOS/PMOS may experience racing thoughts, alertness at night, ‘wired but tired’ feelings and anxiety. If you think sleep might be an issue for you have a look at this post. Helpful practises include:

    • Reducing screen use in the evenings

    • Gentle stretching before bed

    • Exposure to light early in the morning

    • Breathwork

    • Meditation and Mindfulness

    • Acupuncture :)

  3. Lean into Self-Compassion and learn to listen to your nervous system (this probably should be number one)

    PCOS/PMOS diagnosis can really emotional, especially when it is affecting the path to parenthood. It’s easy to fall into the trap of working harder on your health, trying to get everything perfect, only to feel exhausted and burnout. It’s important to remember that perfecting your lifestyle won’t guarantee a reversal of PCOS/PMOS.

    Focus on trying to improve one thing at a time. Spend time doing the things that make you happy, with the people that bring you joy. Try some gentle practices like journalling, meditation, mindfulness, yoga, Taichi, Qi Gong and Acupuncture to help you with nervous system dysregulation. Seek help from your friends and family or get some counselling if you feel you need it.

    You can read more about the nervous system, how it works, and how to regulate it here.

    As someone who has been diagnosed with PCOS/PMOS in the past, I know the struggle too well.

    xx Ceda

Ceda Jarick
Next

Sleep hygiene