PCOS Name Change: Experts & Patients Agree
- A push to rename polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is gaining momentum among doctors and patients, according to research in eClinicalMedicine.
- Helena Roads AM, PhD, MBBS, FRACP, FRANZCOG, FRCOG, FAAHMS, a professor at Monash University, noted that most women in health professions find the existing name confusing and favor...
- Researchers, including Teede, have pointed out that the term PCOS is medically outdated and emotionally invalidating.
Experts and patients overwhelmingly support changing the name of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), deeming the current term misleading. A recent study reveals strong backing for alternatives emphasizing endocrine and metabolic aspects, reflecting a desire to capture the multifaceted nature of this condition. This shift aims to reduce misdiagnosis, decrease stigma, and enhance patient outcomes.News Directory 3 reports on the international study involving thousands, demonstrating knowledge gaps and a growing consensus for a new name. Discover whatS next as the medical community works toward a more accurate and patient-centered approach to PCOS.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome Name Change Gains Traction
Updated June 06, 2025
A push to rename polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is gaining momentum among doctors and patients, according to research
in eClinicalMedicine. The current term is considered misleading by many.
Helena Roads AM, PhD, MBBS, FRACP, FRANZCOG, FRCOG, FAAHMS, a professor at Monash University, noted that most women
in health professions find the existing name confusing and favor a change. The term PCOS focuses on ovarian aspects,
overlooking metabolic, reproductive, psychological, and dermatological implications.
Data derived from Teede HJ,et al.EClinicalMedicine. 2025; Doi.org/10.1016/J.In nomination.2025.103287.
Researchers, including Teede, have pointed out that the term PCOS is medically outdated and emotionally invalidating.
Approximately 12% of women are affected, with up to 70% undiagnosed. The current name contributes to poor health
outcomes, patient dissatisfaction, and limited awareness. Almost half of PCOS patients consult multiple professionals
before diagnosis.
An international study assessed understanding of PCOS features, views on the name, and suggestions for alternatives.
Data from surveys and workshops in 2015 and 2023 included 7,708 responses from patients (n = 4,246) and health
professionals (n = 3,462), mainly from the U.S., Canada, and Europe. The health professionals represented various
specialties.
helena Roads
As 2015,awareness of PCOS complexities has improved among both patients and professionals,likely due to new
guidelines and advocacy. However, knowledge gaps persist, with over 20% unaware of links between PCOS and risks like
fatty liver or cardiovascular disease.
Teede acknowledged that awareness of the condition’s broad features is improving, partly due to international
guidelines.
In the 2023 survey, most agreed the current name is misleading. A majority of patients (85.6%) and professionals
(76.1%) supported a name change. Alternatives including “endocrine” and “metabolic” were favored. Options retaining
the PCOS acronym received less support.
Teede stated that “endocrine” is the preferred term for a new name, followed by “metabolic.” The final name will be
determined in future steps.
Researchers suggest a name change could reduce misdiagnosis and stigma, improve health care, and support research.
Teede noted that 91% of those surveyed believe the benefits outweigh the risks.
Improvements in research and education are needed to broaden awareness beyond infertility and gynecology. teede
emphasized the need for evidence-based details,available on the AskPCOS app.
Monash University has launched a survey for input on the PCOS name change. Verity is hosting a webinar on June 18 to