Obesity is a common occurrence in people with polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS, formerly PCOS). This may be partly due to insulin resistance, which often results from the condition. Medication, changes in eating habits, and regular exercise can help reduce obesity.

Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS, formerly PCOS) is a condition that affects 1 in 10 people who were assigned female at birth. People with PMOS experience metabolism issues and hormonal imbalances that affect their overall health. It is also a common cause of infertility.

Not everyone with PMOS will have obesity. However, obesity and weight gain are common symptoms of the condition.

This article further discusses the connection between PMOS and obesity. It also explains how obesity affects PMOS and how to manage it. Finally, it looks at the symptoms and treatment for PMOS.

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.

Researchers agree that there are strong links between PMOS and obesity. Between 38–88% of people with PMOS have overweight or obesity.

The exact link between PMOS and obesity is unknown. However, studies have shown that there are several mechanisms that can mediate the effects of weight gain on PMOS. These include insulin resistance and the effects that higher levels of insulin in the blood can have on the body.

The studies also state that weight gain and obesity play a part in the development of PMOS. However, PMOS can also play a role in further weight gain and affect a person’s ability to lose weight.

Some experts believe more research is needed on the connection between obesity and PMOS.

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Obesity can exacerbate many symptoms of PMOS. This includes insulin resistance, blood glucose levels, and reproductive issues.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that obesity is a body mass index (BMI) of 30 or more. While BMI is a common screening tool to diagnose obesity, it is not a measure of a person’s overall health.

People with PMOS are also at higher risk of developing other medical conditions. These include:

Obesity can increase a person’s risk of developing these conditions even more. It can also worsen these conditions if someone already has them.

Weight management resources

To discover more evidence-based information and resources for weight management, visit our dedicated hub.

Doctors agree that obesity is a serious issue among people with PMOS. However, some studies suggest that further research and education on how to manage obesity with PMOS is needed.

Currently, the first line of treatment for obesity in those with PMOS is lifestyle changes. This includes changing how a person eats and increasing levels of physical activity. Many doctors recommend people see a dietitian as well.

Another common treatment to manage obesity in PMOS is a medication called metformin. Metformin is a medication that doctors often prescribe to treat type 2 diabetes. It is not currently approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) to treat PMOS.

However, doctors often prescribe Metformin off-label to help manage PMOS insulin resistance. Off-label means using medication to treat a condition the FDA has not officially approved it for.

Metformin can help lower both insulin and androgen levels. Research shows it to have positive effects on reducing body mass and improving cholesterol levels.

Not everyone with PMOS will experience the same symptoms. However, common initial symptoms include:

Other symptoms may include:

Lifestyle changes and metformin are two common first-line treatments for PMOS. Other treatments focus on managing various symptoms. These treatments may include:

Speak with a doctor about other treatment options that may be available based on symptoms experienced.

Valinda Riggins Nwadike, MD, MPH, has reviewed frequently asked questions about PMOS and obesity.

Does obesity cause PMOS?

The exact cause of PMOS is unknown. However, according to some research, it is possible that weight gain and obesity can contribute to the development of PMOS. On the other hand, PMOS can also contribute to weight gain and obesity.

How common is obesity in PMOS?

Obesity affects approximately 38–88% of people with PMOS, according to some research.

What does a PMOS belly look like?

The term PMOS belly refers to excess fat that accumulates in the abdomen, causing an increased waist-to-hip ratio. This belly may look more like an apple shape than a pear shape. Excess fat accumulation in the abdomen is typical with PMOS.

There is a connection between obesity and PMOS. Many people with PMOS also have obesity.

However, It is unclear whether obesity causes PMOS or if PMOS leads to weight gain that can cause obesity. But, for many people, the two are connected.

Management of obesity with PMOS often includes lifestyle changes, such as increased physical activity and changing how a person eats. A doctor may also recommend metformin to help balance insulin levels and aid in weight loss.

Speak with a doctor about treatment options and any concerns about PMOS or obesity.