The Shot #4: PCOS Gets a New Name — And It's About Time

After decades of patient frustration, clinical confusion, and a name that never quite fit, polycystic ovary syndrome has officially been renamed Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) — and the science behind that decision is long overdue. In this episode of The Shot, Tara breaks down the landmark May 2026 Lancet global consensus that drove the rename, why the old "polycystic" framing was scientifically inaccurate and clinically harmful, and what the new name actually tells us about what's happening in the body. She also covers what hasn't changed — including the current diagnostic criteria from the 2023 International Evidence-Based Guideline — and why this shift matters far beyond terminology. Whether you have this diagnosis, treat patients who do, or just want to understand why words in medicine matter, this one's for you. References Teede HJ et al. Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome, the New Name for Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Multistep Global Consensus Process. Lancet. 2026. doi:10.1016/S0140-6736(26)00717-8 Teede HJ et al. Recommendations From the 2023 International Evidence-Based Guideline. Hum Reprod. 2023;38(9):1655–1679. doi:10.1093/humrep/dead156 Teede HJ et al. 2023 IEBG Recommendations. J Clin Endocrinol Metab. 2023;108(10):2447–2469. doi:10.1210/clinem/dgad463 Peña AS, Witchel SF. Update on Diagnosis of PCOS During Adolescence. Fertil Steril. 2025. doi:10.1016/j.fertnstert.2025.09.006 Episodes every Monday ⭐️ Subscribe, Rate and Review! 🍸 Recipes drop on socials Discounts: 15% off Comfrt apparel Purple Carrot: 40% off your first box ClassPass: 2 weeks free 15% off non-alcoholic spirits at The Zero Proof 💳 Support us on Patreon | ☕️ Buy Me a Coffee Contains affiliate links. We may earn a commission at no additional cost to you.