PCOD/PCOS

PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome) is a hormonal disorder which is very common among women of reproductive age. It is characterised by the increase in the male hormones, androgen and enlarged ovaries with multiple cysts (hence the name polycystic). It is also one of the main causes for infertility.

• Weight gain over a period of time
• Scanty menstrual flow.
• Fertility problems.
• Depression.
• Thinning of hair from the scalp.
• Increase of facial hair.
• Increase in the acne.

The exact cause of PCOS is not well understood. Factors that might play a role includes:

• Hereditary
• Excess androgen
• Inflammation/Infection
• Excess insulin

Ayurveda believes that PCOS are caused mainly due to imbalance among the Tridosha; Vata, Pitta and Kapha. These three dosha should be in balance to be healthy and disease free. The causative factors are: 

• Sedentary lifestyle
• Excessive intake of unctuous food.
• Obesity
• Lack of proper sleep
• Lack of exercise
• Stress
• Not taking adequate physical and mental rest during periods.

All these lead to accumulations of toxins (ama) in the body, vitiating vata and kapha subsequently cause obstruction in the reproductive channels, developing small numerous collections of fluids (cyst).

Treatment protocol aims to:

1. Balance the hormone and clear obstruction.
2. Normalised the menstrual cycles and improve blood flow.
3. Provide strength and stamina to the whole body.
4. Rejuvenate the female reproductive system and support mental health.

The first line of treatment should always be avoiding the causative factors.If the problem persists then consider the following treatment protocol.

• Irregular periods, Scanty flow, Weight gain, Thinning of hair from the scalp, Acne and facial hair - Unhealthy diet and lifestyle result in hormonal imbalance which is the main causative factor for all these symptoms. Managing with Pippali, Haritaki, Bibhitaki, Amalaki, Shatavari, Ashoka removes toxins, balances hormones and regulates menstrual cycle. Kanchanara guggul and gokshura not only regulate hormones but also metabolised fats.
• Fertility problems - Hormone imbalance may disrupt ovulation causing difficulty to get pregnant. Shatapushpa churna for ovulation by normalising the cycle, regulating LH and FSH .
• Treat mood swings with Chandraprabha gulika which is rejuvenation and improve overall health.

Other Therapies: Virechana, Basthi.

Pippali, Haritaki, Kanchanara guggul, Gokshura, Shatavari, Ashoka, Satapushpa, Chandraprabha vati

If you have some, or several, of these symptoms, let your doctor know. They will help to  ease these problems and find out if you have PCOS.