Name of common medical condition could be misleading patients, experts warn

The revised name was introduced in a paper penned by women's health experts from around the globe, which was then published in The Lancet medical journal. The name change was reportedly presented at the European Congress of Endocrinology today in Prague.

The authors stated that the term PCOS is "inaccurate," as it implies that the condition is based solely on ovarian cysts, when it also involves a wider mix of hormonal, metabolic and ovarian issues.

This misinterpretation could lead to delayed diagnosis, fragmented care and stigma, the experts noted.

PMOS was chosen for its description of affecting multiple hormones, metabolism and ovarian function.

These cysts make hormones called androgens, which can cause problems with a woman's menstrual cycle and lead to PCOS symptoms, Johns Hopkins stated.