The push to rename polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

04/10/2025 7 min
The push to rename polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)

Listen "The push to rename polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)"

Episode Synopsis


The name polycystic ovary syndrome, commonly known as PCOS, has for a long time caused controversy.Experts in the field say that the current name is misleading, and suggests PCOS is only an ovarian or gynaecological condition.People with PCOS commonly experience insulin resistance, weight gain and mental health issues – indicating it’s a condition that affects the whole body.Guest/sDr Pav Nanayakkara, minimally invasive gynaecological surgeon from Jean Hailes Women’s Health.ReferencesPolycystic ovary syndrome perspectives from patients and health professionals on clinical features, current name, and renaming: a longitudinal international online survey - the Lancet