Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS) is a problem with a female's hormones that causes irregular or missed periods. It may also cause someone to be overweight, have acne, grow extra body and facial hair, and have other problems. PMOS used to be called polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

Treatment can make symptoms better and usually includes birth control pills and making diet and physical activity changes. Use these instructions to care for yourself.

• If the healthcare provider prescribed any medicines, be sure to use them as directed.
• Make healthy diet and activity choices:
  • Try to be involved in meal planning, going to the grocery store, and cooking. 
  • Cook healthy meals with lean meats like chicken and pork and plenty of fruits and vegetables.
  • Eat at home with your family as often as possible.
  • Limit soda and other sugary drinks. Don't drink alcohol.
  • Practice good eating habits by eating only when hungry, having reasonable portions, and stopping when you are full.
  • Try to make healthy choices when eating away from home. To keep portions reasonable, try to share a meal or bring leftovers home for the next day.
  • Be physically active as often as possible. Find something you enjoy doing, such as walking, playing frisbee, or doing fitness classes.
  • Try to limit your screen time. Go for a walk or spend time with family or friends instead.
• If you are bothered by face or body hair, there are different options for hair removal such as shaving, depilatory creams, tweezing, waxing, electrolysis, or laser hair removal. You can also ask your healthcare provider about medicines that can help.
• Follow your healthcare provider's recommendations for when to follow up and whether you need to see any specialists.

You:

• Are thirstier than usual or lose or gain weight 
• Feel anxious or depressed
• Have acne that doesn't improve with treatment

Can someone with PMOS get pregnant? Yes. Although it may be harder to get pregnant, it can still happen. So if you are sexually active, be sure to use a reliable method of birth control. For females who want to get pregnant, treatments can help.

What causes PMOS? The exact cause of PMOS is not known. Normally, an egg is released from the ovary about every month (called ovulation). But in PMOS, hormone imbalances prevent the egg from being released. The follicles (cysts) that hold the eggs build up in the ovaries. One of the hormones that is out of balance is the male hormone, testosterone. There is too much of it and it can cause acne, weight gain, and extra face/body hair.

What other problems can happen in PMOS? People with PMOS are more likely to develop high blood pressure, high cholesterol, insulin resistance (trouble regulating glucose, which can lead to type 2 diabetes), and sleep apnea. Weight loss can often help with these problems, as can some medicines. It isn't clear why, but teens with PMOS have an increased risk of anxiety and depression. If you feel anxious or depressed, talking to a therapist can help you feel better. Talking with others with PMOS is a great way to share information about treatment and get support. Ask your healthcare provider or search online for a local support group.