PMOS (formerly PCOS)
Addressing the hormonal and metabolic root causes of polycystic ovary syndrome
Care in Howard County and Across Maryland
Meet with Dr. Andrea Ridgeway for in-person appointments on Mondays in Woodbine or virtual telehealth throughout Maryland.
Start with a Clarity Consult from $195. If you decide to proceed, ongoing care is $225 per month. Laboratory and medication costs are separate.
What Is PMOS (formerly PCOS)?
Polyendocrine metabolic ovarian syndrome (PMOS), formerly known as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), is a common hormonal condition that can affect people of reproductive age. It is associated with irregular ovulation, higher androgen levels, and polycystic-appearing ovaries, though not everyone has all of these features. PMOS can also be associated with metabolic health concerns, and symptoms vary among individuals.
Insulin resistance and related metabolic changes are common in PMOS, but they are not present in everyone. Diagnosis may be delayed when symptoms are assessed separately rather than as part of the broader condition.
Symptoms
Common signs and symptoms associated with pmos (formerly pcos) include:
- Irregular, infrequent, or absent menstrual periods
- Excess facial or body hair growth (hirsutism)
- Acne, especially along the jawline and chin
- Hair thinning or hair loss on the scalp
- Weight gain, particularly around the midsection
- Difficulty losing weight despite diet and exercise
- Fatigue and low energy
- Mood changes, anxiety, or depression
- Skin darkening in creases (acanthosis nigricans)
- Difficulty conceiving or fertility challenges
What Causes PMOS (formerly PCOS)?
- Insulin resistance driving excess androgen production from the ovaries
- Elevated testosterone and DHEA-S (hyperandrogenism)
- Chronic low-grade inflammation amplifying hormonal disruption
- Genetic predisposition affecting hormone metabolism
- Elevated cortisol from chronic stress worsening insulin resistance
- Disrupted communication between the brain and ovaries (hypothalamic-pituitary-ovarian axis)
- Gut microbiome imbalance affecting estrogen metabolism
How Soluna Vitality Treats PMOS (formerly PCOS)
At Soluna Vitality, we treat PCOS at its metabolic and hormonal root rather than simply managing individual symptoms. Our comprehensive approach addresses the insulin resistance, androgen excess, and inflammation that drive this condition.
Comprehensive hormone panel: testosterone, free testosterone, DHEA-S, estrogen, progesterone, SHBG, and thyroid function
Advanced metabolic testing: fasting insulin, glucose, HbA1c, lipid panel, and inflammatory markers
Insulin sensitization strategies through nutrition, lifestyle, and targeted supplementation
Hormone balancing to reduce androgen excess and restore ovulatory function
Anti-inflammatory nutrition and supplement protocols
Cortisol and adrenal assessment, as stress amplifies PCOS symptoms
Personalized exercise guidance optimized for insulin sensitivity
Ongoing monitoring with lab retesting and protocol adjustments
Frequently Asked Questions
What causes PCOS?
PCOS is a complex condition with several contributing factors. It commonly involves higher-than-usual androgen levels and irregular ovulation. Insulin resistance can contribute to hormone and metabolic changes, but it is not present in everyone with PCOS. The factors involved vary from person to person.
Can PCOS be cured?
There is no single curative treatment for PCOS, but symptoms can often be managed. Care is tailored to a person's symptoms and goals and may include lifestyle support and medication. Results vary. Dr. Ridgeway can discuss options with you.
Do I need to have ovarian cysts to have PCOS?
No. Despite the name, ovarian cysts are not required for a PCOS diagnosis. The diagnostic criteria require two of three features: irregular or absent periods, clinical or lab evidence of excess androgens, and polycystic-appearing ovaries on ultrasound. Many women with PCOS have normal-appearing ovaries, and some women with ovarian cysts do not have PCOS.
How does insulin resistance relate to PCOS?
Insulin resistance is common in PCOS and can contribute to higher androgen levels and metabolic changes. When present, it may be a factor in symptoms and health risks. Dr. Ridgeway can assess your metabolic health and discuss options based on your symptoms and goals.
Related Conditions
PMOS (formerly PCOS) is often connected to other hormonal and metabolic conditions. Learn more:
Ready to Address Your PMOS (formerly PCOS)?
Schedule a consultation with Dr. Ridgeway to discuss your symptoms, get comprehensive testing, and create a personalized treatment plan designed specifically for you.