Polycystic ovary syndrome is a serious condition that plagues many women. Given its severity, its name has been changed in May 2026. PCOS has been renamed PMOS. This condition affects approximately 11.3 percent of women in India, meaning one in nine women has it. This condition isn't limited to the uterus; it also directly impacts the body's metabolism.

What is 'Lean PCOS'?

So, there's a big misconception that PCOS only affects overweight women. Women with a normal weight and BMI can also develop this condition. Medically, it's also known as lean PCOS. However, women with normal weight tend to ignore the condition, which delays treatment.

What are the important symptoms of this disease?

Irregular or absent periods for several months. Increased facial and body hair growth. Facial pimples and scalp hair loss. Infertility and repeated pregnancy problems. Persistent fatigue, mood swings, and depression.

The risk of insulin resistance
Meanwhile, "The biggest risk factor for lean PCOS is insulin resistance. In this case, the body's cells don't respond to insulin. This leads to increased insulin levels in the blood. As a result, androgens (sex hormones) increase in a woman's ovaries. There may be no visible symptoms. This condition can progress to prediabetes and later to type 2 diabetes," said Dr. Palak Dewan.

How is this disease actually diagnosed?
To diagnose this condition, it's important not only to pay attention to external symptoms but also to undergo medical tests promptly. These include periodic blood tests, fasting glucose, insulin levels, hormone profiles, and pelvic ultrasound scans. If this condition is detected early, further complications can be avoided.

PC: TV9