The NHS has issued new guidance advising that up to 4 million women with irregular periods should be investigated for polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), a condition that is often underdiagnosed and inconsistently managed. The fresh guidance aims to improve early diagnosis and consistent care for those affected.
What is PMOS?
PMOS, or polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, is a common but frequently overlooked condition that can significantly impact health and wellbeing. According to Marieanne Ledingham, consultant clinical advisor for women’s and reproductive health at the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice), the condition warrants a simple annual review to ensure ongoing care and monitoring. “This new guideline will help improve consistency of care, increase awareness of the condition, and support earlier diagnosis and management,” Ledingham said.
Impact on Women's Health
Dr Rachel Reid-McCann, a researcher at Oxford University and author of an earlier study on period pain in The Lancet, emphasized the importance of prompt investigation. “Not only can irregular periods be burdensome in the short term, but they have also been associated with longer-term chronic health and reproductive outcomes, making prompt investigation important,” she said. “A PMOS diagnosis in those with irregular periods can open up access to treatment, support and advice that can help improve symptoms and may also reduce longer-term health risks.”
Challenges in Implementation
Dr Reid-McCann also highlighted the need for adequate resources. “The key challenge will be ensuring NHS services have the resources needed to implement these recommendations and doing so consistently across the UK,” she noted.
Patient Advocacy and Equality
Janet Lindsay, chief executive of Wellbeing of Women, welcomed the draft Nice guidelines, stating: “For too long, women with [PMOS] have faced delays in diagnosis and inconsistent care. Too often, symptoms such as irregular periods, fertility difficulties or concerns about weight have been dismissed as something they must simply live with.” She added that the recommendation for regular review is a crucial step towards ensuring women receive ongoing support, monitoring, and information throughout their lives. Lindsay also praised the guideline for acknowledging inequalities in diagnosis and care, particularly for women from black, Asian, and other minoritised communities who face additional barriers to investigation and diagnosis.
