Irregular periods, acne, unwanted facial hair, weight changes, and trouble getting pregnant can be frustrating when you do not know what is causing them. Polycystic ovary syndrome, now also known as Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS), is a common hormone-related condition that can affect your cycle, skin, metabolism, and fertility.
PCOS affects an estimated 6-13% of reproductive-age women, according to the World Health Organization. With the right care, many people can manage symptoms, reduce long-term health risks, and feel more confident about their reproductive health.
Northwest Women’s Center is a leading obstetrics and gynecology practice in Houston, TX, offering evaluation and ongoing care for PCOS and related women’s health concerns. The team provides thorough, patient-centered care for every stage of life, from puberty through menopause.
What Is PCOS?
PCOS is a hormonal condition that can interfere with normal ovulation. In many patients, ovarian follicles begin to grow but do not fully mature or release an egg. These small follicles may appear along the edge of the ovary on ultrasound, but they are not the same as painful ovarian cysts that grow and rupture.
PCOS is connected to hormone signals involving androgens, insulin, and ovulation. Because it can affect several body systems, care often involves multiple aspects of your health, including menstrual cycles, blood sugar, fertility, and long-term wellness.
Why Is PCOS Now Called PMOS?
In 2026, the American Society for Reproductive Medicine endorsed a name change from PCOS to PMOS, which stands for Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome. This updated name helps make it clear that the condition is not just about ovarian cysts.
The newer term reflects the broader nature of the condition, including hormone changes, metabolic concerns, and ovarian function. Many patients and providers may still use the term PCOS, so Northwest Women’s Center can help you understand both names and what they mean for your care.
Common PCOS Symptoms
PCOS symptoms can vary. Some people have several symptoms, while others notice only one or two. Common signs may include:
- Irregular periods
- Missed periods
- Heavy or unpredictable bleeding
- Acne
- Facial hair growth
- Weight gain or difficulty losing weight
- Infertility or trouble ovulating
- Signs of insulin resistance or blood sugar concerns
Some patients may have more metabolic symptoms, while others may have more reproductive symptoms. A careful evaluation helps your provider understand how PCOS is affecting you.
What Causes PCOS?
The exact cause of PCOS is not fully known. Several factors may play a role, including insulin resistance, family history, low-grade inflammation, and higher androgen levels.
Insulin resistance can cause the body to make more insulin, which may increase androgen production. Higher androgen levels can affect ovulation, skin, hair growth, and cycle regularity. Because hormones influence one another, PCOS care often looks at the full picture rather than one symptom alone.
How PCOS Is Diagnosed
A PCOS diagnosis may include a physical exam, a review of your symptoms, and a discussion of your menstrual history. Your provider may also recommend bloodwork to check hormone levels, blood sugar markers, or other possible causes of your symptoms.
Ultrasound may be used to examine the ovaries and assess for other concerns, such as ovarian cysts, fibroids, or pelvic conditions. Northwest Women’s Center offers in-office diagnostic services, including ultrasound, and also treats related concerns such as pelvic pain, endometriosis, abnormal bleeding, and ovarian cysts.
PCOS Treatment Options
There is no single cure for PCOS, but symptoms can often be managed with ongoing care. Your treatment plan may depend on your symptoms, age, health history, and whether you want to become pregnant.
PCOS treatment may include:
- Lifestyle guidance, including nutrition, movement, and weight management
- Birth control pills or other hormonal medications to regulate periods
- Medication support for insulin resistance or metabolic concerns when appropriate
- Fertility care for patients trying to conceive
- Monitoring for long-term risks, including diabetes and high blood pressure
If ovarian cysts are found, your provider can explain whether they are related to PCOS or a separate issue. Most functional ovarian cysts resolve on their own, but some may need surgical care if they are large, painful, solid, abnormal, or concerning for another health problem.
Risks of Untreated PCOS
Untreated PCOS can raise the risk of several health concerns over time. These may include prediabetes, type 2 diabetes, high blood pressure, unhealthy cholesterol levels, sleep apnea, depression, anxiety, and endometrial concerns.
PCOS can also affect pregnancy. Some patients with PCOS have higher risks of miscarriage, gestational diabetes, preeclampsia, cesarean delivery, and babies with higher birth weights. Early diagnosis and ongoing care can help you better understand and manage these risks.
Why Choose Northwest Women’s Center for PCOS Treatment in Houston, TX?
Northwest Women’s Center provides comprehensive obstetrics and gynecology care for women throughout the Houston area. The practice offers care for PCOS, ovarian cysts, endometriosis, pelvic pain, menopause concerns, birth control, pregnancy, STD testing, incontinence, vaginal dryness, vaginal discharge, HPV, fibroids, and other women’s health needs.
At the Dotson Road office in Houston, patients have access to a broad range of diagnostic and treatment services, including ultrasound, colposcopy, laparoscopic procedures, and minimally invasive gynecologic care. The team includes physicians, nurse practitioners, and providers with advanced professional training, including Fellows of the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. Patients receive attentive care in a welcoming setting, with treatment plans built around their symptoms, goals, and long-term health.
FAQs
Research suggests that PCOS does have a genetic component, meaning it may run in families. If your mother or sister has PCOS, your risk of developing the condition may be higher. However, having a family history does not mean you will definitely develop PCOS. Environmental factors, lifestyle, and other individual circumstances also play a role. If you have a family history of PCOS or related conditions like diabetes or irregular periods, discussing this with your provider can help guide screening and early intervention.
Yes, many women with PCOS are able to become pregnant with proper care and support. PCOS can affect fertility by interfering with ovulation, but your provider may recommend treatments to help restore regular ovulation or other fertility options depending on your situation. Northwest Women’s Center offers fertility care specifically for patients with PCOS, including evaluation, lifestyle guidance, medication support, and advanced reproductive options when needed. It is important to discuss your pregnancy goals with your provider early so a personalized plan can be developed.
Managing weight and metabolism with PCOS often involves a combination of approaches tailored to your individual needs. Regular physical activity, balanced nutrition focused on whole foods and managing carbohydrate intake, and stress reduction can help support insulin sensitivity and metabolic health. Some patients also benefit from working with a nutritionist or dietitian who understands PCOS.
Start PCOS Treatment in Houston, TX
PCOS, or PMOS, can affect your cycle, fertility, skin, metabolism, and overall well-being, but it can often be managed with the right medical support. Northwest Women’s Center offers thoughtful evaluation and long-term care for patients with PCOS in Houston, TX.
To discuss PCOS symptoms, hormone concerns, irregular periods, or fertility planning, contact Northwest Women’s Center in Houston, TX, at 281.444.3440 or book an appointment online.