PCOS AND AYURVEDA : A Holistic Approach to Managing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

PCOS or Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome is a group of disorders affecting women of reproductive age and one among the common reasons found today for irregular menstrual cycle. Say it because of sedentary lifestyle or food habits, it sure is a menace for womanhood.

According to WHO, PCOS affects 116 million worldwide, PCOS affect approx. 10 percentage women in the reproductive age.

What is PCOS?

It is a disorder where the ovaries produce higher than normal level of male hormones (androgen) causing an imbalance in the system leading to trouble in normal ovulation and release of eggs (Ovum). Some of the ovum develops into fluid filled sacks called cyst which may even grow bigger in size.

WHAT CAUSES PCOS?

It is an endocrine disorder directly connected to the level of hormones in the body.

1. Increased level of male hormones (Androgen) — A smaller level of male hormones presents in every woman. Whereas its increase leads to imbalance triggering male traits such as extra hair growth, male pattern baldness and acne.

2. Increased level of Insulin — Insulin is a hormone regulating blood glucose level in the body. It helps in conversion of the food we eat into energy. Those with unhealthy eating habits, little to no-exercise, overweight or obese have higher chances of increase in blood glucose level and insulin resistance, which means their cells can’t take up insulin properly. When cells can’t use insulin properly, the demand in body rises thus triggering pancreatic cells to produce more insulin for supply. This extra insulin circulates in the body which in turn triggers ovaries producing male androgen.

3. Inflammation — Studies have linked excess inflammation to higher androgen levels. Inflammatory condition might be a contribution of overweight too.

HOW YOU KNOW YOU HAVE PCOS?

Some woman gets early symptoms whereas some go unnoticed until they find difficulty getting pregnant.
You should notice it when there is,

· Irregular periods
· Heavy menstruation
· Excessive hair growth
· Thinning of hair
· Weight gain
· Acne
· Darkening of the skin in body creases like on neck, groin and under the breasts.
· Headache

WHY PCOS A CONCERN?

Infertility: Fertilization happens only if there is a release of ovum. Woman who don’t ovulate thus find it difficult to conceive and is a major cause of infertility in woman.
Metabolic diseases: Obesity and PCOS go hand in hand, slowing the metabolism. Hence woman with slow metabolic rate have higher chances of high blood sugar, LDL cholesterol, high blood pressure.

CAN ONE CONCEIVE WITH PCOS?

Woman with PCOS have trouble getting pregnant, if conceived they have higher chances of premature child birth, miscarriage, high blood pressure and gestational diabetes. However, woman with PCOS can get pregnant with infertility treatments.

ROLE OF AYURVEDA IN MANAGING PCOS

Efficiency of Ayurveda treatments and regimen are found in studies regarding management of PCOS.

Ayurveda focuses on balancing the metabolism and maintaining equilibrium of bio-energies. The metabolism which is lowered ion PCOS will be boosted with Ayurveda treatments and increases chances of conception. Ayurveda uses herbal formulations to correct the hormonal imbalance and regulates the normal rhythm of body. It also requires you to go through various types of therapies and maintain a balanced diet. All these play a vital role in overcoming PCOS - related problems.

The holistic approach includes a combination of dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, herbal remedies, and therapies aimed at restoring balance to the doshas and promoting overall health.

Dietary Recommendations

Managing PCOS requires a well-balanced diet. Ayurveda suggests a diet that calms Kapha and promotes balance: 

• Eat Fresh, Whole Foods: Choose a diet rich in fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. 
• Avoid Processed Foods: Reduce your intake of processed, sugary, and fatty foods, as these might aggravate Kapha. 
• Spices and Herbs: Use spices like turmeric, cinnamon, and ginger to help regulate metabolism and minimize inflammation. 
• Warm Foods and Drinks: Warm, cooked meals are preferable, whereas cold, uncooked foods might cause digestive issues. 

Lifestyle Modifications

Ayurveda emphasizes the need of a balanced lifestyle in managing PCOS efficiently.

• Regular Exercise: Regular physical activity such as yoga, walking, or swimming can help you maintain a healthy weight and relieve stress. 
• Stress Management: Meditation, deep breathing exercises, and mindfulness can help you balance your hormones.
• Adequate Sleep: Get 7-8 hours of regular sleep each night to promote hormonal balance and overall well-being.

Herbal Remedies

Ayurvedic herbs can help manage PCOS. Some of the most widely utilized herbs are:

• Shatavari (Asparagus Racemosus): Shatavari is known for its hormone-balancing effects, which promote reproductive health and alleviate PCOS symptoms. 
• Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera): Helps to regulate stress and cortisol levels, supporting hormonal equilibrium. 
• Turmeric (Curcuma Longa): Has anti-inflammatory effects and improves liver function, which aids in detoxifying. 
• Guduchi (Tinospora Cordifolia): Improves immunity and aids in blood sugar control.

Ayurvedic Therapies

In addition to diet and medication, certain Ayurvedic therapies can be effective for PCOS:

• Panchakarma: A detoxification technique that helps to eliminate toxins and restore dosha balance. It offers treatments such as Abhyanga (oil massage), Swedana (herbal steam), and Basti (medicated enema).
• Udvartana: A therapeutic deep tissue massage with herbal powders to lower Kapha and improve weight loss.

Conclusion

Ayurveda provides a thorough and customized approach to controlling PCOS, concentrating on the underlying cause rather than the symptoms. Women with PCOS can improve their health and hormonal balance by eating a balanced diet, changing their lifestyles, taking herbal medicines, and undergoing Ayurvedic therapies. Consult with a skilled Ayurvedic practitioner to design a treatment plan tailored to your specific needs and constitution.

Embrace Ayurvedic wisdom and take a step toward overall well-being and balance.