Previously known as Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) is a condition marked by a group of symptoms, including the existence of small sacs on the ovaries as well as irregular periods (WHO, 2025). People with PMOS may also experience hair loss, acne, and hair growth on the face, chest, and back due to an increase in a hormone called androgen (mainly associated with male sex hormone but naturally exists in both male and female bodies). Some individuals may also develop insulin resistance and see an increase in weight.
The cause of PMOS is not known, but it impacts 1.4 million people across Canada (Lujan et al., 2008). It can impact fertility and lead to other health complications such as type 2 diabetes, heart disease, and endometrial cancer (WHO, 2025).
For students with PMOS, challenges with this health condition may look like (Betkowski, 2025; Li et al., 2020; Patel et al., 2025):
- Emotional distress that leads to reduced academic productivity
- Increased academic stress which makes the symptoms worse
- Feeling alone in their struggles, especially if health care providers are not understanding
- Feeling judgement or shame due to appearance
- Fatigue due to lower sleep quality, which can affect academics
- Impaired memory and executive function, impacting academics
- Feelings of shame due to fatphobia if there is weight gain
- Potential development of disordered eating/eating disorders due to feelings about weight gain and any conflicting messages from people around them
The following resources can be beneficial to learn more about PMOS (or PCOS as referred in these resources):
Fact Sheets on PCOS by Children’s Hospital of Eastern Ontario (CHEO)
CHEO provides two fact sheets to help understand PCOS and the types of management that is provided by a health care provider. One of the fact sheets is on general PCOS information as well as the various management options that may be discussed with someone who has PCOS. The other fact sheet goes over the types of medications that may be suggested by a doctor to someone with PCOS. While choosing to take medication is up to the individual, it’s important to be aware of the different types of medication, what side effects they might come with, and what might happen if one stops taking it. Each person can have a different experience with medications, so it is important to consult with a doctor when considering medication.
Nutrition Management for PCOS by the University of Guelph
This page on nutrition management for PCOS by the University of Guelph provides information on certain dietary practices that can help with insulin resistance. It highlights the importance of incorporating some of these practices in a mindful way, especially in ways that feels good physically and mentally.
PCOS Toolbox by PCOS Together PCOS
Together is a research and community outreach program based out of the University of Alberta. This toolbox provides information on the primary pathway to care, ways to advocate for yourself, and frequently asked questions about PCOS. Please note that some of the information on health care support may be specific to the province of Alberta.
