Our dedicated women's health services give you unrivalled private access to an impressive multidisciplinary team that includes 200+ gynaecology specialists. To ensure all your symptoms and concerns are heard, expertly considered, investigated and treated, you'll benefit from a highly personalised approach that includes the option of extended appointments. From holistic services spanning psychologists, physiotherapists and dieticians to the latest advanced robotic surgery techniques, whatever your stage in life, symptoms or condition, we're here for you. Our One-stop Gynaecology Clinics also deliver a full investigation and treatment plan, in one convenient visit.

How common is polycystic ovary syndrome?

Estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO) say that PCOS is a condition that it affects 8-13% of all women of reproductive age and that 70% of these women are undiagnosed because of a lack of awareness. In particular, the symptoms are all too easily dismissed at work, forming part of a gender health gap which costs the UK £20 billion a year. At HCA UK, we want to close this gap by providing a timely diagnosis and the right treatment. Combatting this kind of overlooked and common serious health challenge in women is one of the reasons we have set up a private network of dedicated women's health centres.

Is polycystic ovary syndrome genetic?

Some studies do suggest that the condition can run in families – so, if a female relative has PCOS, then you could be more likely to be diagnosed with it too. Whether you're showing symptoms or are just worried about your risk, we can confirm your appointment within 24 hours.

Can I still get pregnant if I have polycystic ovary syndrome?

Yes. While having PCOS can affect your fertility, the hormonal imbalance that stops you from ovulating is treatable. If you're diagnosed with the condition and want to become pregnant, our skilled and highly experienced teams will be able to discuss your treatment options with you. These range from medication to minimally invasive surgery and IVF. We'll make recommendations based on what we think the most effective course of action will be for your individual diagnosis.

What are the risks associated with PCOS?

If you're diagnosed with PCOS, you may be more likely to develop a range of health issues beyond the fertility challenges mentioned above such as: - Diabetes - High blood pressure - High cholesterol - Endometrial cancer - Sleep apnoea - Depression Your consultant can talk to you through all this in detail so that you understand the potential risks and can try off set them, as far as is possible, with lifestyle changes.

What's the difference between polycystic ovary syndrome and endometriosis?

While both conditions can cause irregular periods and infertility, PCOS and endometriosis are different conditions. With endometriosis, cells like those in your womb grow in other parts of your body, usually on the organs in your abdomen and pelvis. This can cause menstrual cramps or pelvic pain. As with PCOS, there is no cure for endometriosis, but early diagnosis and the right treatment can help you to manage your symptoms.

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Polycystic ovary syndrome

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Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) previously known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

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PMOS (PCOS) AT HCA HEALTHCARE UK

Why choose us?

Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS), previously known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), is a complex condition that can affect your hormones, metabolism and fertility.

Our dedicated women's health services provide access to more than 200 gynaecology specialists, supported by experts including endocrinologists, fertility specialists, dietitians and psychologists. With rapid access to diagnostics, personalised treatment plans and One-stop Gynaecology Clinics, we're here to help you get answers and expert care quickly.

What is PMOS?

Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS), previously known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), is a common hormonal and metabolic condition that affects the way your ovaries work. One of its features is the development of multiple fluid-filled sacs, called follicles, around the eggs within the ovaries.

Normally, eggs mature within these follicles and are released during ovulation. If you have PMOS, your eggs may not mature properly and ovulation may not occur as it should.

These follicles can often be seen on an ultrasound scan. Despite the previous name of the condition, they are not actually ovarian cysts.

What are the symptoms of PMOS?

Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS), previously known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), can affect hormone levels, ovulation, metabolism and fertility. Symptoms vary from person to person and may include:

Irregular periods, including none at all, or periods that last many days
Excess facial or body hair caused by increased androgen levels
Excessive hair loss, oily skin and acne
Difficulty becoming pregnant
Recurrent miscarriages
Weight gain and difficulty losing weight
Low mood or depression

PMOS can affect women at any time after puberty, although some people do not develop symptoms until later in life. Symptoms may be mild for some people and more severe for others.

PMOS is also associated with longer-term health conditions, including type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular disease. Early diagnosis and specialist care can help you manage your symptoms, reduce potential health risks and access the most appropriate treatment and support.

What causes PMOS and what are the complications?

We don't know exactly what causes Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS), previously known as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). However, research suggests that genetic factors, hormonal imbalances and metabolic changes all play a role. Early diagnosis, treatment and maintaining a healthy weight may help reduce the risk of long-term complications.

PMOS is often associated with insulin resistance, where the body's cells do not respond normally to insulin. As a result, the body produces more insulin to compensate. Higher insulin levels can increase the production of androgens (often referred to as 'male' hormones), which may disrupt ovulation and contribute to symptoms such as irregular periods, acne and excess facial or body hair.

Because PMOS is linked to both hormonal and metabolic changes, it may also increase the risk of developing conditions such as type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular disease and other long-term health problems. Specialist assessment and ongoing management can help reduce these risks and support your long-term health.

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How is PMOS different from polycystic ovaries?

You can have polycystic ovaries without having Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS). Polycystic ovaries contain a number of harmless follicles. Despite their name, these are not actually cysts, but small fluid-filled sacs in which eggs develop. Many women with polycystic ovaries experience no symptoms and do not require treatment.

PMOS is a hormonal and metabolic condition that can affect ovulation, fertility and other aspects of your health. While some people with PMOS have polycystic ovaries visible on an ultrasound scan, not everyone does. A diagnosis of PMOS is based on a combination of symptoms, medical history and diagnostic tests, rather than ultrasound findings alone.

When should I see a specialist about PMOS?

If you're concerned that you may have Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS), seeking specialist advice early can make a real difference. Symptoms can vary significantly from person to person and, in some cases, may be mild or easy to overlook, making an expert assessment important if you have any concerns.

You can book an appointment with one of our women's health GPs or consultant gynaecologists. If you need any further investigations, we'll provide rapid access to diagnostic tests and personalised treatment options to help manage your symptoms and support your long-term health.

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PMOS (PCOS) TESTS AND SCANS AT HCA UK

A timely accurate diagnosis

When diagnosing polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, our focus is on early detection so we can help you access the right treatment and support as quickly as possible.

With same- or next-day extended appointments available, you'll have the time and space to discuss your symptoms, concerns and medical history with a specialist. To diagnose PMOS, we may assess a combination of hormonal, metabolic and ovarian factors using tests such as:

Blood tests
Ultrasound scans

Your PMOS specialist will review your results, which are often available within 48 hours, helping us determine the most appropriate next steps in your care.

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PMOS (PCOS) TREATMENTS AT HCA UK

Expert treatments tailored to you

While there's no cure for polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome, a range of treatments can help manage symptoms and support your long-term health. If you're diagnosed with PMOS, we may recommend a range of treatments, from those that focus on supporting fertility to others that help manage hormonal and metabolic symptoms.

We'll tailor your plan to your individual circumstances, taking into account your symptoms, age, overall health and whether you're planning to have children. We may also recommend lifestyle changes to help improve symptoms and reduce associated health risks.

If you're trying to become pregnant:

Medication to encourage ovulation
Laparoscopy
In vitro fertilisation (IVF)

If you're not planning a pregnancy:

Hormonal birth control via contraceptive pills or an IUD
Medication to block the effects of androgens
Medication to help regulate insulin levels

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And to give you peace of mind from the start, we’ll offer you a clear and transparent quote outlining exactly what’s included in your self-pay package.

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If your treatment is paid for by insurance, there’s no need to worry about a thing – all our consultants are covered by major private medical insurers.

Your insurer will need to see a referral letter from a GP (NHS or private). Once you have a referral, you can contact your insurer for an authorisation code, which you’ll need to bring with you when you come for your appointment.

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PMOS (previously known as PCOS) FAQs

How common is Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS)?

Estimates from the World Health Organization (WHO) say that PMOS affects an estimated 8–13% of women of reproductive age. The WHO also estimates that up to 70% of affected women remain undiagnosed.

Because symptoms can vary significantly and are often overlooked or dismissed, many women may live with the condition for years before receiving a diagnosis. This forms part of a gender health gap which costs the UK £20 billion a year.

At HCA UK, we're committed to helping close this gap and reduce the risk of longer-term health complications, through rapid access to specialist assessment, diagnosis and appropriate treatment across our dedicated women's health centres.

Is PMOS (previously PCOS) genetic?

Research suggests that Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) can run in families, meaning that if a close female relative has been diagnosed with the condition, you may be more likely to develop it yourself. However, genetics is only one factor, and the exact cause of PMOS is not fully understood.

Whether you're experiencing symptoms or are concerned about your risk, an assessment with a specialist can help provide answers and determine whether any further investigation is needed.

Find a PMOS specialist

Can I still get pregnant if I have PMOS?

Yes. While PMOS can affect fertility by disrupting ovulation, many people with the condition are able to become pregnant with the right treatment and support. If you're diagnosed with PMOS and would like to start a family, our specialists can discuss the treatment options available to you.

These may include medication to encourage ovulation, minimally invasive surgery or fertility treatments such as IVF. We'll recommend the most appropriate approach based on your individual circumstances and fertility goals.

What are the risks associated with PMOS?

PMOS is associated with a range of health conditions beyond fertility challenges. Depending on your symptoms and individual risk factors, you may be more likely to develop:

Your consultant will discuss any potential risks with you in detail and, where appropriate, recommend treatments and lifestyle changes to help support your long-term health.

What's the difference between polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome and endometriosis?

Although both conditions can affect fertility and cause menstrual problems, PMOS and endometriosis are different conditions.

PMOS is a hormonal and metabolic condition that can affect ovulation, fertility and other aspects of your health. Endometriosis occurs when tissue similar to the lining of the womb grows elsewhere in the body, usually within the pelvis. This can cause symptoms such as pelvic pain, painful periods and fertility difficulties.

While there is no cure for either condition, we can help with early diagnosis and specialist treatment to manage symptoms and improve your quality of life.

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Jayne's IVF treatment

Jayne had been trying for 10 years to have a baby when she was diagnosed with polycystic ovaries. The Lister Fertility Clinic helped her conceive.

Read her story

Nicola’s story: An unexpected diagnosis

We caught up with Nicola post-treatment to discuss her journey from diagnosis to recovery and her experience receiving treatment under Professor Jay Chatterjee, consultant gynaecologist, at The Lister Hospital in Chelsea, part of HCA Healthcare UK.

Read her story

“Dr Nickkho-Amiry was absolutely amazing, made me feel so heard and explained everything very well to me.”

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