Our sources
The studies, decoded.
Everything Fiercy explains is based on sources you can read yourself. For each one: what it says, what it means for you, and its limits.
Breakdowns written by Fiercy from the sources. They do not replace medical advice.
- International guideline
International evidence-based guideline for the assessment and management of PCOS
Teede et al., Human Reproduction, 2023
The global reference text, written by experts and people with PCOS. In adults, diagnosis is based on 2 out of 3 criteria, and a high AMH level can replace the ultrasound.
Read the sourceThe breakdown
What it means for you
You can use these criteria to talk with your doctor, and ask how they apply to you.
The limits
These are general recommendations: every situation still needs to be assessed in person.
- Expert consensus
PCOS gets a new name: PMOS
Global consensus, The Lancet, May 2026 · reported by AJMC
PCOS is now called "polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome" (PMOS). The old name suggested it was all about ovarian "cysts", which aren't actually cysts. The diagnostic criteria don't change, and the switch will happen gradually through 2028.
Read the sourceThe breakdown
What it means for you
You may hear both names. They mean the same thing, and your diagnosis is still valid.
The limits
It will take time for the new name to reach every doctor's office and document.
- Survey
Delayed diagnosis and a lack of information in women with PCOS
Gibson-Helm et al., Journal of Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism, 2017
1,385 women surveyed. About 1 in 3 waited more than 2 years for a diagnosis, nearly half saw at least 3 health professionals, and more than half received no information about long-term effects or emotional support.
Read the sourceThe breakdown
What it means for you
If your journey has been long, you're not an isolated case. Coming prepared can help shorten it.
The limits
Women were recruited through online support groups in several countries: not representative of every situation.
- Reference fact sheet
Polycystic ovary syndrome: the WHO fact sheet
World Health Organization
PCOS is estimated to affect about 10 to 13% of women of reproductive age, and up to 70% of them may be undiagnosed worldwide.
Read the sourceThe breakdown
What it means for you
It's common, and often invisible. What you feel deserves to be taken seriously.
The limits
Global estimates: numbers vary by country and by the criteria used.
- Reference fact sheet
PCOS: a common condition and the leading cause of female infertility
Inserm (French National Institute of Health), on sante.fr · in French
In France, about 1 in 10 women is affected. It's the most common hormonal disorder in women of reproductive age.
Read the sourceThe breakdown
What it means for you
An official source, to help explain to the people around you what you're going through.
The limits
A general-public fact sheet: for your own situation, your doctor is the one to assess it.