PMOS (formerly PCOS): A Traditional Chinese Medicine Perspective on Fertility
You may have heard of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS). More recently, the condition has been renamed Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome (PMOS) to better reflect that it is a complex hormonal and metabolic condition, rather than simply a problem affecting the ovaries.
PMOS is one of the most common hormonal conditions affecting women of reproductive age. However, it can present very differently from person to person. Some women experience irregular periods, while others may notice acne, unwanted hair growth, weight changes or difficulty conceiving.
At Surrey Acupuncture Clinic in Surbiton, we provide personalised fertility support, taking time to understand your health, menstrual cycle, lifestyle and emotional wellbeing before creating an individual treatment plan
What Is PMOS?
PMOS is a condition that affects hormone regulation and ovulation. Not everyone with PMOS experiences the same symptoms, and the condition exists on a spectrum.
Common features may include:
Some women experience many of these symptoms, while others have only one or two.
If you think you may have PMOS, it’s important to discuss your symptoms with your GP or a fertility specialist, who can arrange appropriate assessment and investigations.
Traditional Chinese Medicine does not diagnose PMOS as a single pattern. Instead, practitioners identify individual patterns of imbalance based on your symptoms, menstrual cycle, general health and lifestyle.
This means that two women with the same medical diagnosis may receive completely different acupuncture treatment plans because their overall presentations are different.
How Does Traditional Chinese Medicine View PMOS?
Rather than focusing on a single diagnosis, TCM considers the body as an interconnected system.
Some patterns that practitioners may identify include:
These are Traditional Chinese Medicine patterns, not medical diagnoses.
PMOS (PCOS) and fertility
During your consultation at Surrey Acupuncture Clinic, we consider:
This helps us understand your overall health and tailor treatment accordingly.
Many patients also appreciate that acupuncture gives them dedicated time to relax, pause and focus on their wellbeing during what can sometimes be a stressful period of life.
Personalised Fertility Support in Surbiton and Kingston
At Surrey Acupuncture Clinic in Surbiton, we understand that every fertility journey is different.
Whether you’ve recently been diagnosed with PMOS or have been living with the condition for many years, we take time to understand your individual health before creating a personalised acupuncture treatment plan.
Patients travel from Surbiton, Kingston, New Malden, Tolworth, Thames Ditton, Esher and across Surrey for fertility support in a calm, welcoming environment.
Our aim is to help you feel informed, listened to and supported throughout your journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is PMOS?
PMOS stands for Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome. It is the new name for the condition previously known as PCOS, reflecting its broader hormonal and metabolic effects.
Why has the name changed?
The new name recognises that the condition involves much more than the ovaries. It can affect hormones, metabolism, ovulation and reproductive health, so the updated terminology aims to better describe the condition.
Does everyone with PMOS have ovarian cysts?
No. Despite the previous name, many women did not have ovarian cysts. Instead, an ultrasound may show multiple small follicles, which is only one feature of the condition.
Can I get pregnant naturally if I have PMOS?
Many women with PMOS conceive naturally, although irregular ovulation can make conception more challenging for some. If you’re concerned about your fertility, your GP or fertility specialist can advise you on the most appropriate next steps.
How does TCM approach PMOS?
Traditional Chinese Medicine does not treat PMOS as one single pattern. Instead, treatment is based on your individual symptoms, health history and overall pattern of imbalance.
Is every acupuncture treatment the same?
No. At Surrey Acupuncture Clinic, treatment is always tailored to the individual and reviewed regularly as your health and menstrual cycle change.
Wellbeing Tip
Living with PMOS can sometimes feel frustrating, particularly if your cycles are unpredictable.
Rather than aiming for perfection, focus on building consistent, healthy habits that support your overall wellbeing. Small steps—such as regular meals, gentle movement, good sleep and making time to relax—can all contribute to feeling more balanced.
Want to know How Acupuncture with Nuala
Could Help You?
At Surrey Acupuncture Clinic in Surbiton, I specialise in supporting women and couples who are trying to conceive naturally. Every treatment is tailored to the individual, taking time to understand your health, menstrual cycle and fertility goals.
Patients visit from Surbiton, Kingston, New Malden, Esher, Tolworth and across Surrey for personalised fertility support in a calm and welcoming environment.
If you’d like to find out more about fertility acupuncture or book an initial consultation, I’d be delighted to hear from you.
