PMOS affects approximately one in ten women and is a common hormonal condition affecting women of reproductive age. PMOS can affect metabolism, hormone balance, mental and physical wellbeing and is linked to long term health risks such as diabetes, high blood pressure, heart disease and heart disease. By raising awareness, healthcare professionals and women can work together to spark conversation, advocate for more research, and seek timely access to support and treatment.

Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome is a complex hormonal condition affecting how the ovaries function. Women with PMOS may have higher levels of androgens (sex hormones) like testosterone.

Common signs of PMOS include:

• Irregular or absent menstrual cycles

• Acne or oily skin

• Excess hair growth on the face, chest and/or back

• Thinning hair on the scalp

• Weight gain, and/or difficulty losing weight 

• Fertility problems

Not all women with PMOS will experience these symptoms, some may only notice mild signs, while others may struggle with more significant effects, this is how many women’s reproductive health problems can be undiagnosed, or mistaken for other conditions. Greater awareness and understanding of PMOS can help women feel more empowered to seek medical support and explore treatment options.

One of the more significant challenges for many women with PMOS is its effect on fertility. PMOS can disrupt the ‘normal’ ovulation process, leading to irregular or absent release of eggs - without consistent ovulation, it becomes more difficult to track a natural cycle and conceive naturally. It’s important to note that not all women will experience challenges with fertility - and many women with PMOS continue to have healthy pregnancies. Awareness, advocacy, early diagnosis and proactive management can make a meaningful difference in women’s experiences and outcomes. Lifestyle changes such as maintaining a balanced diet, regular movement and exercise, and weight management can improve regular ovulation, in addition, medical treatments can provide support and improvement. 

Awareness and advocacy are powerful in improving health outcomes for women with PMOS and other reproductive conditions. Because symptoms can be varied and often misunderstood, many women experience long delays before receiving a diagnosis. Early recognition and proactive management not only improve women's health and fertility outcomes, but also help reduce the associated long-term health risks. Raising awareness also helps reduce stigma and break the silence around reproductive health concerns - by normalising conversations about PMOS, and reproductive health, more women feel empowered and supported in seeking quality medical advice and advocating for themselves and their health.

PMOS Awareness Month is an opportunity to start conversations, share stories, and educate ourselves and others about this common condition. By spreading awareness, supporting research, and encouraging open conversation - we can build a more informed and supportive community for women living with PMOS and other reproductive health conditions.