Daily TribunePCOS is not only related to ovarian cysts or the reproductive system, but is also linked to hormones, metabolism, weight and long-term health.
PCOS is common, but many women still go undiagnosed. Awareness can help
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Knowing the signs of PCOS empowers women to make informed decisions about their health.
What was known as PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome) has been proposed by the global health community to be renamed as PMOS, short for Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome, to provide a more comprehensive description of the condition.
This is because PCOS is not only related to ovarian cysts or the reproductive system, but is also linked to hormones, metabolism, weight and long-term health.
PMOS is a common condition affecting an estimated one in eight women of reproductive age worldwide and 4.5 million Filipino women, according to information from Zuellig Pharma. Its former name often led many people to understand it as merely an ovarian cyst condition, even though some women with PCOS may not have ovarian cysts at all.
The key point of the new name is to encourage women to view this condition more holistically, particularly insulin resistance, which may increase the risk of obesity, prediabetes, type 2 diabetes and other non-communicable diseases, or NCDs, such as cardiovascular disease.
This is especially true for obesity, with more than half (52.06 percent) of Filipino women in a recent PCOS research classified as obese, reporting weight gain (66.15 percent) as a major symptom.
PMOS is, therefore, not a “new disease,” but a name that helps describe the condition more in line with reality. Possible symptoms include irregular menstrual periods, acne, excessive hair growth, thinning hair easy weight gain, infertility, or, in some cases, no obvious symptoms in the early stage.
Every woman should therefore be aware that obesity and diabetes may be closer than they think. The risk can begin as early as adolescence, reproductive age, or working age, even while living a normal daily life without realizing it.
Signs women should look out for If they suspect PMOS and metabolic risk:
Irregular menstrual periods, such as absent periods, periods that occur infrequently or too frequently, unusually heavy periods, or unpredictable menstrual cycles.
Abnormal blood sugar levels, or already living with type 1 or type 2 diabetes.
Excessive hair growth on the face, chest, abdomen, or upper thighs.
Severe acne, persistent acne after adolescence, or acne that does not improve with usual treatments.
Snoring, waking up unrefreshed, daytime sleepiness, or unusual fatigue.
Women experiencing any of these symptoms are encouraged to consult their healthcare provider for a proper evaluation. Early screening and diagnosis are key to managing the condition effectively and reducing the long-term risk of related health issues like diabetes and cardiovascular disease.
