5 Common Myths about PMOS

If you've recently been diagnosed with PMOS (formerly known as PCOS), you've probably come across a lot of conflicting information online.

From social media and blogs to conversations with friends, there's no shortage of advice about what PMOS is, what causes it and how it should be managed. Unfortunately, not all of it is accurate.

PMOS is a complex hormonal and metabolic condition that can affect women in different ways. While some symptoms are well recognised, there are also many misconceptions that can make the condition seem more confusing than it needs to be. 

So, let's separate fact from fiction.

Here are 5 common myths about PMOS, and what you should actually know.

Myth 1: You have to have ovarian cysts to have PMOS

False.

Despite its former name, having ovarian cysts is not a requirement for a PMOS diagnosis.

PMOS is diagnosed using a combination of features, which can include irregular or absent ovulation, signs of higher androgen levels and the appearance of polycystic ovaries on an ultrasound. 

Not every woman with PMOS will have all of these features. 

This means you can have PMOS even if your ultrasound does not show polycystic ovaries. 

It's also worth nothing that the term 'polycystic ovaries' can be misleading. The appearance seen on an ultrasound is generally related to multiple small follicles within the ovaries rather than traditional ovarian cysts.

You don't need to have ovarian cysts to have PMOS. 

Myth 2: PMOS only affects your period

False. 

Irregular periods are one of the most commonly recognised signs of PMOS, but the condition can affect much more than your menstrual cycle.

Depending on the individual, PMOS may also be associated with:

• Acne
• Excess facial or body hair
• Hair thinning
• Changes in weight
• Difficulty ovulating
• Fertility changes
• Changes associated with insulin resistance and blood sugar regulation

However, PMOS doesn't look the same for everyone.

One woman may experience irregular periods as her main symptom, while another may experience acne, unwanted hair growth or difficulty with ovulation.

Symptoms can also change over time.

PMOS can affect many aspects of your health, not just your period.

Myth 3: Every woman with PMOS is overweight

False.

This is one of the most common misconceptions surrounding PMOS.

Women of all body shapes and sizes can have PMOS.

While some women with PMOS experience weight gain or find it easier to gain weight, others may have a lower or average body weight. Body weight alone cannot diagnose or rule out PMOS.

This is sometimes referred to as 'lean PMOS', although the term can oversimplify a condition that is already highly individual.

If you're experiencing symptoms such as irregular periods, difficulty ovulating or signs of higher androgen levels, it's worth speaking with a healthcare professional regardless of your weight.

Your symptoms and overall health matter far more than a number on the scales.

PMOS can affect women of every body shape and size.

Myth 4: You can't get pregnant if you have PMOS

False.

A PMOS diagnosis does not mean that pregnancy is impossible.

For some women, PMOS can make it more difficult to conceive because ovulation may happen less frequently or less predictably. However, many women with PMOS go on to have healthy pregnancies.

Some women conceive without medical support, while others may benefit from treatment designed to help regulate or encourage ovulation.

If you're trying to conceive, your healthcare professional can help you understand your individual circumstances and discuss the options available to you.

It's also important to remember that having PMOS does not automatically mean you'll experience fertility problems.

PMOS can affect ovulation, but it does not mean you can't get pregnant.

Myth 5: There's one treatment that works for everyone

False.

Because PMOS can affect women differently, there isn't one treatment or approach that works for everyone.

For one person, managing irregular periods may be the main priority. For another, it might be acne, unwanted hair growth, fertility or metabolic health.

Depending on your individual symptoms and health needs, your healthcare professional may recommend lifestyle changes, medication or other forms of treatment and support.

There is no need to compare your PMOS journey to someone else's.

What works for one person may not be the right approach for another, and your symptoms and priorities can change over time.

PMOS management should be individualised to your symptoms, health and goals.

Understanding PMOS

Living with PMOS can sometimes feel overwhelming, particularly when you're faced with conflicting information online.

The important thing to remember is that PMOS doesn't look the same for everyone.

You don't need to fit a particular body type, have every possible symptom or experience fertility problems to have PMOS. Understanding the condition and how it affects you can help you have more informed conversations with your healthcare professional.

If you think you may have PMOS, or you've noticed ongoing changes to your menstrual cycle, speak with a qualified healthcare professional. They can help you understand your symptoms, discuss whether further assessment is appropriate and advise you on the support available.

Your PMOS journey is personal. Understanding the facts is a good place to start.