Does getting pregnant mean PMOS is cured? Doctor busts myths of the condition

PCOS, which is now known as PMOS (Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome), is often considered a 'deal breaker' in traditional marriage markets, as many think the body of a person suffering from the condition automatically cancels 'baby plans.' The syndrome can affect ovulation, cause irregular cycles, and impair egg quality and metabolism.

However, all this said, a person with PMOS can absolutely get pregnant, say doctors. This PMOS Awareness Month, let's bust some common myths about the condition with Dr Smitha Joy, Senior Consultant and HOD of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology at VPS Lakeshore Hospital, Kochi. 

Myth 1: If a cyst is taken out, PMOS can be cured
Fact: PMOS is a whole-body hormonal condition, which has no cure. Therefore, removing ovarian cysts detected on ultrasound does not cure PMOS. Moreover, these cysts are not abnormal growths. They are fluid-filled sacs that fail to fully mature due to changes in ovulation, dominance of male hormones and other reasons. PMOS can, however, be kept under control with proper diet, exercise and lifestyle changes. 

Myth 2: People who have PMOS are infertile.
Fact: PMOS is definitely a leading cause of infertility. However, this absolutely doesn't mean a person with PMOS is sterile. They still ovulate and can respond to treatment. 

Myth 3: Those who have PMOS are always obese.
Fact: While the majority of people suffering from PMOS gain weight due to the underlying insulin resistance, there are also many skinny patients who have PMOS. They are often termed 'lean' or 'non-obese' PMOS patients. 

Myth 4: The scan shows no PMOS, so I don't have it.
Fact: Just because a scan doesn't show PMOS, it doesn't mean a person does not have it. This is because the scan is only one element of the diagnosis used to ascertain PMOS. The doctors also look into aspects like ovulation and androgen levels, and if those are satisfied, a person can still have PMOS. 

Myth 5: I have PMOS, but I am pregnant and therefore, cured.
Fact: PMOS is a lifelong metabolic condition. Getting pregnant while suffering from PMOS doesn't mean a person is cured of the syndrome. PMOS doesn't end with pregnancy, and it can still go on to cause issues like diabetes, hypertension, high cholesterol levels, cardiac issues and even uterine cancers. 

Myth 6: My periods are regular, I can't have PMOS
Fact: Even when a person's periods are perfectly regular, they can have PMOS. This is because some people can experience anovulatory cycles in which the uterine lining is shed without the release of an egg. Moreover, if they have the other criteria of PMOS - follicle patterns on ultrasound and high androgens - they are still suffering from the syndrome.