Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome

Symptoms of PMOS

Symptoms of polyendocrine metabolic syndrome (PMOS) often start around the time of the first menstrual period. However, most women are diagnosed in their 20s or 30s when they are trying to conceive a child.

In addition to irregular periods, other symptoms of PMOS may include:

• Abnormal hair growth on the face, chest or abdomen
• Weight gain
• Hair loss or thinning hair around the temples and front of the head
• Infertility
• Severe acne
• Small, fluid-filled sacs called cysts on the ovaries

You do not need to experience all of these symptoms to receive a PMOS diagnosis.

PMOS affects one in ten women of childbearing age, yet many may be unaware they have the condition because symptoms can be mild or go unnoticed.

Causes of PMOS

The exact cause of PMOS is unknown; however, genetic factors, obesity, chronic inflammation, and how the body processes insulin, all may contribute to the condition.

Complications of PMOS

One of the most common complications of PMOS is infertility. PMOS can make it difficult to get pregnant, but pregnancy is still possible. Other complications may include:

• Pregnancy Complications – Women with PMOS have a higher chance of developing gestational diabetes or high blood pressure during pregnancy.
• Health Problems - Women with PMOS may develop Type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure and sleep apnea.
• Uterine and Ovarian Cancer - Some women with PMOS develop a condition that causes the uterus lining to thicken and may increase the risk for endometrial cancer.

Obesity is common in people with PMOS and can make complications worse.

How is PMOS diagnosed?

No single test can diagnose PMOS. In addition to a review of your symptoms and health history, your physician will perform a pelvic exam.

They may order blood tests to measure hormone levels and to rule out other underlying conditions that may be the cause for your symptoms. An ultrasound may also be performed to view your ovaries and uterus.

All of these tests and additional factors help your physician to make an accurate diagnosis. 

Treatment for PMOS

There is no current cure for polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome. Treatment focuses on managing symptoms and reducing the risk of long-term health issues including diabetes and heart disease.

Specific treatment depends on factors such as age, the severity of your symptoms, if you want to become pregnant, and overall health. It often includes a combination of lifestyle changes and medication.

Lifestyle Changes

Weight loss is recommended for women with PCOS that are overweight or obese.

• Losing just a small amount of weight can improve PMOS symptoms and reduce the risk of other health issues.
• Exercise can help lower blood sugar levels by improving how insulin works in the body.
• Physical activity can also lower androgen levels and help you ovulate so that your periods are more regular.
• Losing weight may help your medicines work better and it can help with infertility.

Medication

Your physician may prescribe medication to help make your periods more regular and to address some of your other symptoms. These may include:

• Birth control pills that contain both estrogen and progestin. This can help reduce androgen and make your menstrual cycle more regular. It can also help to improve irregular bleeding, acne, and unwanted hair growth.
• Progestin therapy. Taking progestin for 10 to 14 days every other month can regulate your periods and help protect against endometrial cancer.
• Eflornithine (Vaniqa) - A cream that helps to slow facial hair growth.
• Spironolactone - Helps to block the effects of androgens on the skin, which can help with acne and hair loss.

Infertility

If you want to become pregnant, a physician may advise you to lose weight by changing your diet or activity level. Losing weight may help lessen symptom severity and prevent health complications like diabetes and heart disease.

Your physician may also prescribe medication to promote ovulation and help increase the likelihood of getting pregnant. These medications may include:

• Clomiphene
• Letrozole (Femara)
• Gonadotropins

Speak with your physician to make sure you understand your treatment plan, the medications you taking, and how you can increase your chances of a healthy pregnancy.

PMOS is a complex condition that affects your entire body. If you are suffering from some of the symptoms mentioned above, schedule an appointment with a gynecologist for further evaluation. Learn more about the Women’s Health Services at Catholic Health.