An Ayurvedic Approach to Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Posted on November 02, 2021
An Ayurvedic Approach to Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

Feeling exhausted, increased anxiety and Acne problems are difficulties women face across the world. But sometimes, it can be the indications of underlying disorders that need medical attention. Affecting more than 20% of females, PCOS is a common female endocrine hormonal disorder that can occur from the time they hit puberty. Acne, weight gain, excess hair growth, Missed or irregular menstrual periods, and infertility are all seen in people with PCOS. The resistance to insulin, hormonal imbalance, high levels of Androgens, increased levels of inflammation, and even Genetics have been known to cause PCOS in females. PCOS is associated with Aarthava Kshaya as per Ayurveda and can be treated with time and some effort. An Ayurvedic approach to Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome can change your perception of the disorder and perhaps help you to eliminate it once and for all.  


What Is PCOS?


As you know, women have both male and female hormones in their bodies. A hormonal imbalance is caused due to the ovaries creating excess male hormones than usual leading to Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). The ovaries produce unusually high levels of androgens(male hormones), particularly testosterone. This leads to decreased levels of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and increased levels of luteinizing hormone (LH). This, in turn, leads to anovulatory periods as the follicles are prohibited from developing mature eggs.

PCOS patients often have erratic menstrual cycles(missed periods for a couple of months) and unpredictable ovulation. Anovulatory periods result in the development of multiple small cysts(fluid-filled sacs) on your ovaries. The name "polycystic" could lead us to believe that multiple cysts are formed in all cases, but in reality, that is not the case. Even without multiple cysts, women showing other symptoms can also be diagnosed with PCOS as there is a chance of developing these cysts in the future. In fact, most women realize that they have PCOS when they are trying to get pregnant. Being overweight or if other people in your family have PCOS, the chances of developing PCOS is more.

PCOS & Its Effects

  • Unhealthy eating habits and sedentary lifestyles have contributed to the increase of PCOS. The most common effects of PCOS include:

  • Irregular menstruation: Abnormal periods like missing period dates by a few days or not having a period at all for months at a stretch. Some patients also experience heavy bleeding during periods.

  • Excess hair growth: Increased hair growth on the face, arms, chest, and abdomen (hirsutism) is seen in almost 70% of women with PCOS.

  • Acne Problems: Ideally once the teenage is over, so are the Acne problems. However, people with PCOS can have acne, especially on the back, chest, and face. 

  • Increased Body Weight: Being overweight or obese is a leading effect of PCOS. The worst part is that losing weight is comparatively more difficult for people with PCOS.

  • Skin Darkening: Dark discoloration in body folds and creases, especially in the folds of the neck, armpits, under the breasts, and groin is termed Acanthosis Nigricans. It is often noticed in PCOS patients.

  • Multiple Cysts: Small pockets of fluid called cysts are formed in the ovaries which do not get removed during the menstruation process. They form a chain and remain in the uterus for extended periods.

  • Skin tags: Often found in the armpits or on the neck of women with PCOS, Skin tags are little flaps of rudimentary skin that form and remain as an inconvenience.

  • Hair loss: People with PCOS may experience thinning hairlines and hair volume. Some patients even lose patches of hair leading to bald spots.

  • Infertility: A decreased frequency or lack of ovulation can result in the ovary not releasing healthy eggs for the sperm to fuse. Also, an excess of androgens in the ovary is unsuitable for conceiving. 

An Ayurvedic Approach To Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome

PCOS Treatment in Ayurveda has consistently observed success in the reduction of ovarian volume using herbal medicines such as Trikatu, Guggul, Triphala, Kanchanar, Dashamool, etc. Herbal treatment in Dubai includes Ayurvedic herbs like Shatapushpa and Shatavari that help to naturally grow eggs and to split follicles naturally. 
Ayurvedic treatment for PCOS in Dubai recommends Nasya, Virechana (part of panchakarma Detoxification), Shirodhara, and Uttar Basti along with lifestyle and diet modification. Along with guidance on diet and exercise, Ayurveda Medicine for PCOS is given for a minimum of 6 to 12 menstrual cycles. Lifestyle changes as recommended in Ayurveda is as follows: 

  • Manage stress and anxiety to help balance your hormones.

  • Stay well hydrated every single day by drinking 2 liters (8 glasses) of filtered water daily.

  • Perform light and moderate exercise for at least 45 minutes daily

  • Practice Pranayama- Nasal breathing exercise

  • Embrace Yoga - Asanas such as Uttanpadasana, Dhanurasana, Vrikshasana, Badhakonasana, Ushtrasana, and Vajrasana are famous yoga asanas that are ideal for women to develop a healthy and regular menstrual cycle, among many other benefits.

 

Kerala is renowned for Ayurveda and its healing properties. Dr. Jasnas Ayurveda Clinic is considered the Best Kerala Ayurvedic Centre In Dubai that offers holistic care for PCOS and other reproductive-related issues.