For parents and caregivers
Women's health
PMOS (formerly PCOS) and hormonal changes.
PMOS, formerly known as PCOS, is a condition that can affect menstruation, skin, hair growth and how the body regulates blood sugar. Both names are used in information about the condition.
Understanding the situation
The condition may cause infrequent or irregular periods and signs of increased androgen effects, such as pronounced hair growth or severe acne. Androgens are hormones present in all bodies.
Diagnosis in teenagers requires particular caution. International recommendations emphasise both persistent cycle irregularity and evidence of androgen effects, after other causes have been considered. Ultrasound and AMH testing are not recommended as a basis for a PCOS diagnosis in teenagers.
Turning knowledge into action
What you can do
- Bring information about the first period, bleeding patterns and other symptoms to the doctor.
- Ask which findings inform the assessment and how development will be monitored.
- Support good sleep, regular meals and activities your child enjoys.
Find a way to start
One way to begin
“We can find out what these changes mean and get help with what is bothering you.”
Use your own words and give your child time to respond. A short conversation can be a good beginning.
More help with the conversationFurther support
When should you seek help?
Book a GP appointment for persistently infrequent periods together with troublesome hair growth or severe acne. Follow-up may be useful even if it is too early to make a definite diagnosis.
See who you can contactContinue learning
Other useful topics
Sources and further reading
Sources were checked on 1 October 2026. The conversation examples are suggestions from Tidlignok.
- Helsenorge: PMOS, tidligere PCOS (Norwegian)
- Internasjonale kunnskapsbaserte anbefalinger om PCOS hos ungdom, 2025 (Norwegian)
This content provides general information. Healthcare professionals can assess your child's symptoms, circumstances and treatment needs.