Health library

Could it be PMOS?

As many as 1 in 10 women ages 15 to 44 are living with polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), a hormone imbalance that causes ovarian cysts, trouble getting pregnant and a raised risk for other health problems, such as diabetes. PMOS is manageable, if you know you have it.

7 signs of PMOS:

1. Irregular periods, including frequent, few or no periods.

2. Excess hair on the face, chin and body.

3. Thinning hair on the head.

4. Acne.

5. Trouble maintaining a healthy weight.

6. Dark skin patches on the neck, in the groin and under breasts.

7. Skin tags in the armpits or on the neck.

Learn more about PMOS and how it can affect your health.

Reviewed 6/3/2026

Sources

Endocrine Society. Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome: New Name to Improve Diagnosis and Care of Condition Affecting 170 Million Women Worldwide.
Office on Women's Health. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.
U.S. National Library of Medicine. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome.