People with polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS, formerly PCOS) have a higher risk of developing thyroid disorders, including both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism. However, hyperthyroidism appears to be less common.
Hyperthyroidism, or an overactive thyroid, can cause symptoms including anxiety, excess sweating, and heart palpitations. Although it does not commonly occur alongside PMOS, some people have both conditions.
Some research from 2015 suggests that PMOS may link to thyroid dysfunction. This is particularly true for autoimmune thyroid disorders such as Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
Read on to learn more about the link between PMOS and hyperthyroidism.
In May 2026, global experts officially changed the name for PCOS to polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS). Experts say the name change more accurately reflects the condition as something that affects the whole body.
You may see both terms used, as rollout of the new term is expected to take several years, with full integration into international guidelines and insurance documentation by 2028.
A note about sex and gender
Sex and gender exist on spectrums. This article will use the terms “male,” “female,” or both to refer to sex assigned at birth. Learn more.
People can experience thyroid dysfunction in two ways: hyperthyroidism (overactive thyroid) and hypothyroidism (underactive thyroid).
Although PMOS does not directly cause hyperthyroidism, some evidence from 2015 suggests that PMOS may link to thyroid dysfunction.
There is limited research on the link between PMOS and thyroid disorder, and studies have found large variations in the prevalence of the conditions. Despite this, evidence suggests that hypothyroidism is more common than hyperthyroidism in people with PMOS.
Hyperthyroidism means that the body produces more thyroid hormone than it needs, and it causes a wide range of symptoms. Some
- anxiety
- excess sweating
- fatigue
- heart palpitations
- sleep disturbances
- tremor
- weight loss
These symptoms are different from those of PMOS, which commonly include weight gain, thinning hair, and oily skin, among other symptoms. If a person with PMOS develops symptoms of hyperthyroidism, they should contact a doctor.
Research has found that people with PMOS are
Some experts believe hormonal imbalances are the reason. People with PMOS have higher levels of androgens, which are hormones that influence male sexual development. Hormonal imbalances can affect other parts of the body, such as the thyroid.
Additionally,
Graves’ disease, a common cause of hyperthyroidism, causes the immune system to produce antibodies that make the thyroid gland produce too much thyroid hormone.
Hashimotos’ thyroiditis causes the immune system to attack the thyroid gland and produce too little thyroid hormone, leading to hypothyroidism.
It is important to note that having PMOS does not guarantee that a person will develop thyroid dysfunction, and having thyroid dysfunction does not mean that a person will have PMOS.
A doctor may use a combination of physical exams, blood tests, and imaging tests to diagnose hyperthyroidism and PMOS.
Hyperthyroidism
A doctor may use the following tests to
- Physical exam: A doctor will examine the thyroid gland to assess whether it is enlarged or tender. They may also check for physical symptoms of hyperthyroidism, such as an elevated heart rate and excess sweating.
- Blood tests: These can measure levels of thyroid hormones and thyroid-stimulating hormone in a person’s blood.
- Imaging tests: Imaging tests, such as ultrasounds and thyroid scans, can highlight abnormalities in the thyroid gland.
PMOS
A doctor may use the following tests to
- Physical exam: A doctor may perform a physical exam and ask about a person’s symptoms and menstrual cycles. People with PMOS commonly have irregular, infrequent periods, acne, facial hair growth, and male pattern baldness.
- Blood tests: These can check a person’s hormone and insulin levels.
- Imaging tests: If a doctor suspects PMOS, they will use an ultrasound scan to check the ovaries for cysts.
The treatment for hyperthyroidism with PMOS depends on the specific case and the severity of the condition. Treatment may include medication, lifestyle changes, or a combination of both.
Some treatment options include:
- Medication: A doctor may prescribe medications such as propylthiouracil or methimazole to regulate thyroid hormone levels.
- Lifestyle changes: Doctors typically recommend lifestyle habits such as regular exercise, a balanced and nutritious diet, and stress-reduction techniques.
- Surgery: In rare cases, a person may need surgery to remove their thyroid gland.
- PMOS treatment: Treating PMOS may ease hyperthyroidism symptoms.
People with PMOS are more likely to have thyroid disorders, such as hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. Research suggests that people with PMOS have higher rates of autoimmune thyroid disorders such as Graves’ disease and Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
Hyperthyroidism does not commonly occur alongside PMOS. Both are distinctly different conditions. However, some people do have both.
If a person has PMOS and experiences symptoms of hyperthyroidism, they should contact a doctor.