Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Polycystic ovary syndrome is the most prevalent hormonal disorder and the biggest cause of infertility amongst reproductive women all over the world.

Polycysts means many cysts. When ovaries develop multiple waters filled cysts on its surface with immature ovums, it’s called PCOS. The cysts create hormones that imbalances the normal rhythms of the female reproductive system responsible for the regular menstrual cycle.

It is better to diagnose PCOS early because in long term, it can lead to a lot of health issues like type 2 diabetes, insulin resistance, high cholesterol, high blood pressure, and heart disease. It can also lead to depression and most importantly, infertility.

PCOS causes irregular menstrual cycles, excessive body or facial hair, and infertility. It can also cause acne, weight gain, patches of dark skin, depression, and even pelvic pain.

If your menstrual cycles are regular with standard bleeding patterns, most likely you don’t have PCOS. If you have irregular menstruation or infertility, consult a physician for a deeper analysis and a diagnosis.

In Ayurveda, PCOS comes as a part of a lot of diseases involving menstruation, infertility, obesity, and balancing of digestive fire (Agni) and the bio humours called Doshas. As the symptoms differ from patient to patient, the line of treatment also differs accordingly. Some treatments that are proven effective are:

• Herbal preparations: Some herbal preparations like Sukumaram Kashayam, Preparations of Asoka, Dasamoola etc are proven to be effective in balancing the hormone system. They arrest or reduce the size and number of cysts and relieve the symptoms.
• Kashaya Vasthi: Amongst all Panchakarma therapies (5 fold purificatory treatments), Kashaya Vasthi or Decoction enema is the one that purifies the imbalance Vata that regulates the respiratory system. A series of vasti with proper before and aftercare can make a vast difference in the condition.
• Udwarthana: It is the weight-reducing powder massage in Ayurveda. It also helps in balancing the fat metabolism, insulin resistance, and increasing the quality of the skin and the complexion, all of which can be affected with PCOS.
• Ayurvedic Diet: Food or Pathya is very important for the success of any Ayurvedic treatment. Reducing the usage of sweet things (Sugar, jaggery, desserts etc, carbohydrate rich grains and vegetables like potato), Slimy food like milk and yogurt, salt etc is important in treating PCOS.
• Yoga: Physical activity is important in any metabolic disorder. Asanas and pranayamas can improve circulation and speed up metabolism. It can also help in reducing weight.

It is important to see a physician and to find the root of the issue and further continued Ayurvedic treatments and medicines to completely get rid of the problem.

Ayurveda is holistic and extremely personable. This is an important factor in disorders like PCOS where symptoms are variable. PCOS is when treated early and completely gives a woman reproductive health which is a cursor for great general health.