European society of gynecology (ESG) position paper on the proposed terminology change from PCOS to PMOS
BACKGROUND: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a prevalent endocrine disorder whose terminology inadequately reflects its systemic nature. The proposed renaming to polyendocrine metabolic ovary syndrome (PMOS) aims to better represent its pathophysiology. OBJECTIVE: To present the European Society of Gynaecology (ESG) position regarding the proposed terminology change and its implementation. METHODS: Expert consensus and narrative synthesis of current scientific evidence and international recommendations. RESULTS: ESG supports a structured, patient-centered transition strategy. Recommendations include prioritizing patient communication, implementing a gradual transition with prolonged dual terminology use, and integrating the new terminology systematically into scientific and educational frameworks. The importance of interdisciplinary clarity and the central role of gynecological endocrinology are emphasized. CONCLUSION: A phased and clearly communicated transition will enhance conceptual accuracy while preserving patient understanding, continuity of care, and clinical coordination.
Authors
- Ineta Vasaraudze
- Max Brincat
- Angelos Daniilidis (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0003-4837-694X)
- Tevfik Yoldemir (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0001-6925-4154)
- Camil Castelo‐Branco (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-9860-8318)
- S Vujović
- Géraldine Brichant (ORCID: https://orcid.org/0000-0002-3233-4772)
- Blazej Meczekalski
- on the behalf of the ESG Board
- Petra Stute
- Raoul Orvieto
- Alessandro D. Genazzani
- Andrea R. Genazzani
Institutions
- University of Bern (CH)
- Poznan University of Medical Sciences (PL)
- University of Modena and Reggio Emilia (IT)
- Rabin Medical Center (IL)
- University Hospital of Bern (CH)
- Mater Dei Hospital (MT)
- Papageorgiou General Hospital (GR)
- Institute for Human Reproduction (US)
- Hospital Clínic de Barcelona (ES)
- Riga Stradiņš University (LV)
- University Clinical Centre (PL)
- Centre hospitalier régional de la Citadelle (BE)
- Center for Human Reproduction (US)
- Marmara University (TR)
Publication Details
- Journal
- Gynecological Endocrinology
- Published
- 2026-06-29
- DOI
- https://doi.org/10.1080/09513590.2026.2695512
- Primary Topic
- Biomedical Text Mining and Ontologies
- Type
- article
- Field-Weighted Citation Impact
- 0.00