About PMOS
PMOS affects how your ovaries work and it's a condition you have from birth.
It used to be called polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
It can disrupt ovulation or stop it completely, which can make it harder to get pregnant. It does not involve cysts on your ovaries.
You can learn more about it on the NHS and NHS Inform websites:
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) on NHS Inform
Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) on NHS
Symptoms
Even though PMOS is there from birth, you usually don't notice symptoms until you go through puberty.
In some cases, you may not get symptoms until your late teenage years or early twenties. Symptoms can continue until
menopause and can change after menopause.
Common symptoms include:
-
irregular periods
- excess hair growth on the face or body caused by higher levels of androgens (male hormones)
Other possible symptoms include:
- weight gain
- hair thinning or hair loss
- oily skin or acne
- difficulty getting pregnant
Causes and risks
Its cause is unknown, but it may be linked to hormonal and metabolic changes in the body.
PMOS can affect your metabolism, and this can make it easier to gain weight and harder to lose it. It can also increase your risk of developing type 2
diabetes or high cholesterol.
Learn more about
high cholesterol on NHS.
When to contact your GP
Book an appointment with your GP if your symptoms are affecting your daily life, including physical or mental health symptoms.
It can run in families, so it’s important to tell your doctor if a family member has the condition.
List of surgeries and GPs in Jersey
Out of Hours GP service
PMOS and your mental health
You may experience anxiety or depression.
The Mental Health Network offers information, advice and support for anyone experiencing mental health concerns.
If you need urgent help, call us on +44 (0) 1534 445290. The service is free and available 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
Get help or support for your mental health
Getting a diagnosis
At your appointment, your doctor will talk to you about your symptoms and may do tests to rule out other health conditions. To prepare for this,
it's useful to track:
- your period start dates
- the length of your period
- any symptom patterns
- any changes in your health over time
Your doctor may recommend:
If you’re diagnosed with PMOS you may be referred to a specialist for further advice and support.
Treatment
There is no cure for PMOS, however treatments can help to:
- manage your symptoms
- lower the risk of future health problems
- improve fertility if you want to get pregnant
Your doctor will discuss treatment options based on your individual symptoms. These may include hormone-based treatments or other medicines to help manage specific symptoms and reduce associated health risks.
Things you can do to help yourself
Making healthy lifestyle choices can help improve PMOS symptoms and support your overall health. These include:
- eating plenty of fruit, vegetables and foods high in fibre
- drinking plenty of water
- adding oily fish as part of a balanced diet
- reducing meat and dairy, if advised
- reducing sugary foods and drinks
- limiting or avoid alcohol
- staying active with regular exercise
Learn more about nutrition and exercise and healthy eating guidelines.
Find more information about things you can do to help with
polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) on NHS.
PMOS and contraception
Even if you have PMOS, you can still ovulate from time to time.
It is important to use contraception if you don't want to get pregnant.
Learn more about
contraception methods and support and the services available at the
contraception clinic.
If you're under 21 you can get free support at
Sexual Health Advice for Young People in Jersey (SayJ).
gov.je