Overcoming PCOS and Infertility with Ayurveda Treatment

If you're a woman dreaming of motherhood, there's one important issue that may be worth addressing: Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, commonly known as PCOS. This condition affects nearly 10% of women worldwide, a figure that is quite alarming, isn't it?

From an Ayurveda perspective, PCOS isn’t just a diagnosis; it’s a reflection of imbalances in your body’s natural energies, specifically the Vata and Kapha doshas. Ayurveda identifies PCOS as Santarpanajanya vyadhi, a disorder arising from over-nourishment, which can disrupt menstrual health (Artava dushti) and lead to conditions like the absence of menstruation (Anartava), making conception a challenge.

In recent decades, the prevalence of PCOS has grown, likely due to shifts in our lifestyles and eating habits. However, there is good news: exploring Ayurveda treatment for PCOS may help you regain your health and enhance your fertility. Keep reading the blog to discover more about this practical and effective approach.
 

Ayurveda offers a unique perspective on Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) that differs from conventional views. Practitioners of Ayurveda examine it through the lens of Dosha, Dushya, and Srotas, which represent the body's energies, tissue types, and body channels. While the term “PCOS” isn't found in ancient Ayurveda texts, many of its symptoms align with certain gynaecological issues described in Ayurveda medical writings. For instance, classical texts mention conditions like Vandhya yonivyapad, Granthi arthava, Nastartava, and Ksheenaartava, which resonate with the experiences of those dealing with PCOS today.

In Ayurveda, PCOS can be seen in relation to individual body types and their specific symptoms. It’s often connected to Santarpana vyadhi, which refers to an over-nourishment condition, and Manodoshaja vyadhi, which involves psychological and emotional factors. Generally, PCOS can be categorized into two main types: lean and obese. Each type is associated with distinct imbalances in the three Doshas—Vata, Pitta, and Kapha—affecting both metabolism and psychological well-being in their ways. Let's find out more about these conditions.

Obese PCOS is often connected to the dominance of Kapha Dosha. This condition falls under the category known as Santarpana vyadhi, which essentially means it typically arises from overeating Kapha-aggravating foods and leading a sedentary lifestyle.

When Kapha is out of balance, it can block the reproductive channels in the body, known as Artavavaha srotas. This blockage can result in problems such as follicular stagnation, anovulation, and hormonal imbalances overall. Additionally, if digestion is not functioning properly—often referred to as Agni mandya—there can be a buildup of Ama, which are harmful toxic by-products. This situation is not conducive to healthy metabolism and may contribute to conditions like insulin resistance and obesity. Furthermore, excessive Kapha can create blockages in the body's smaller channels, further disrupting both metabolism and hormone transport.
 

Conversely, lean PCOS tends to be influenced more by Vata, with some impact from Pitta. Unlike the obese form, lean PCOS does not fall into the Santarpana category; rather, it may exhibit features of Apatarpana vyadhi, which is associated with under-nourishment, or even Manodoshaja vyadhi, where stress and mental health play significant roles.

In cases of lean PCOS, an imbalance in Vata can interfere with the function of reproductive channels, leading to irregular ovulation and inadequate follicle development. The Pitta aspect can lead to a hyperactive metabolism, which results in hormonal imbalances and inflammatory symptoms like acne or hair loss.

Moreover, we cannot overlook the impact of stress. Chronic stress can disrupt the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Adrenal (HPA) axis, exacerbating Vata and Pitta imbalances. Understanding the different manifestations of PCOS through an Ayurvedic lens helps us appreciate the unique experiences of individuals, emphasizing the need for personalized approaches to manage this condition effectively.

In India, the prevalence of PCOS among married women is alarmingly high due to lifestyle changes, dietary habits, and increased stress levels. Lifestyle determinants such as physical inactivity and dietary habits are the high contributing variables responsible for this syndrome and its effects on women. Thus, many women have to endure not only problems associated with PCOS but infertility as well.
 

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, or PCOS, is closely tied to a concept known as Avarana. This refers to the blockage of functional channels of the body interrupting your normal bodily functions caused by imbalances in the Doshas.

In PCOS, the Kapha Dosha plays a major role. It tends to obstruct the Artavavaha srotas, which are the channels responsible for transporting reproductive materials. This blockage leads to something called follicular stagnation, which means the follicles don’t grow as they should. The problem is also linked to the Vata Dosha, which affects how things move in the body. This can make periods feel irregular and unpredictable.

These disruptions affect the HPO axis, which stands for the Hypothalamic-Pituitary-Ovarian axis. When this axis is thrown off balance, it can lead to hormonal imbalances that are commonly associated with PCOS.

Infertility associated with PCOS can be treated in a relatively simple and harmless but effective way through Ayurveda management, which takes into consideration the overall health condition of the woman rather than just the symptoms. This effective natural treatment does not have any side effects as it is based on natural therapies and focuses on the root causes of the disease.

In Ayurveda, PCOS is often viewed as a disturbance in the doshas (Vata, Pitta, Kapha) and srotas (channels). The imbalance leads to Artava Dushti (disorders of menstruation) and, ultimately, Vandhyatva (infertility). Ayurvedic practitioners focus on restoring balance through diet, lifestyle changes, medicinal formulations, and detoxification processes.

Ayurveda's View on Infertility and PCOS

From an Ayurveda perspective, infertility due to PCOS is primarily attributed to Nashtartava (loss of menstrual function) caused by vitiated Vata and Kapha doshas obstructing the Artavaha Srotas (channels carrying menstrual blood).

This obstruction can pave the way to irregular ovulation and hormonal imbalances.
Ayurveda emphasises individualised treatment plans that consider each woman's unique constitution (Prakriti) and current imbalances (Vikriti). By addressing these factors holistically, Ayurveda aims to restore regular menstrual cycles and enhance overall reproductive health.

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is often viewed through an Ayurveda lens as Medojroga, which means it's linked to excess fat and adipose tissues. It's also categorised as Santarpanjanyavyadhis, or diseases caused by overnutrition. Because of this, the primary treatments suggested in Ayurveda focus on reducing Kapha and fat—what we call Kaphanashaka and Medonashaka chikitsa.

Interestingly, Ayurveda doesn't overlook Lean PCOS, even though it’s less common. For this type, Ayurveda practitioners recommend therapies like Murdha taila, which involves applying a medicated oil to the scalp for a certain period, Nasya (nasal administration of medicines) to stimulate the pituitary gland and Anuvasana vasti, which involves using medicated fats in an enema. These treatments work to balance the vitiated vata, helping to create harmony in the body.

Managing PCOS through Ayurveda involves several key components:

• Nidanaparivarjana (Avoid Causative Factors): Ayurveda describes avoiding the causative factors as the first step to ideally manage this condition.
• Dietary Adjustments: A balanced diet rich in whole foods is essential. Women are encouraged to consume fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats while avoiding processed foods, sugars, and excessive dairy products.
• Herbal Remedies: Ayurvedic herbs such as Satapushpa (Anethum sowa) and Sesame (Sesamum indicum) play crucial roles in regulating menstrual cycles and improving fertility. In addition to single herbal solutions, Ayurveda offers multi-ingredient medicines like decoctions.
• Detoxification Therapies: The Panchakarma detoxification process includes five main procedures: Vamana, which involves therapeutic vomiting to expel excess Kapha and toxins; Virechana, a therapeutic purgation that cleanses the gastrointestinal tract by eliminating excess Pitta; Vasti, the use of medicated enemas to balance Vata dosha and detoxify the colon; Nasya, where herbal preparations are administered through the nasal passages to stimulate pituitary gland; and Raktamokshana, a bloodletting therapy that helps to remove impurities from the blood.
• Yoga and Lifestyle Changes: Incorporating yoga into daily routines can significantly benefit women with PCOS. Poses that stimulate the reproductive organs can enhance blood flow and promote hormonal balance. Additionally, regular exercise helps manage weight—an important factor in managing PCOS symptoms.
• Stress Management: Stress has a profound impact on hormonal health. Techniques such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, and mindfulness practices are encouraged in Ayurveda to help manage stress levels effectively. Additionally, Shirodhara, after Panchakarma, along with Rasayana therapies, are recommended to support ovulation and promote successful pregnancy.

At Apollo AyurVAID, we provide personalised consultations tailored for women facing PCOS-related infertility, all without the use of hormonal pills. Our experienced practitioners will assess your unique situation and create a comprehensive treatment plan that includes dietary guidance, herbal remedies, detoxification therapies, and lifestyle modifications. We focus on natural approaches to support your health and fertility.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a hormonal issue that can make it difficult for women to get pregnant. In Ayurveda, this condition is often linked to imbalances in the body’s doshas, especially Vata and Kapha. When these doshas are not balanced, women may experience irregular periods, missed ovulation, and lower egg quality, all of which can impact fertility.

When the body’s natural rhythms are disturbed, it affects not just reproduction but overall health. Ayurveda focuses on restoring balance through changes in diet, lifestyle, and herbal treatments tailored to each person.

For instance, adding certain foods that calm Vata and Kapha can help stabilize menstrual cycles and support ovulation. Moreover, specific herbs can promote reproductive health and assist in balancing hormones.

At Apollo AyurVAID, our approach is to personalise care for each woman dealing with PCOS-related infertility. By addressing the root cause of the issue through Ayurveda, we aim to not just cope with the symptoms of PCOS but also promote overall well-being. Together, we can walk the path towards health and hope for conception and motherhood. If you or someone you know is facing these challenges, our services are designed with your unique journey in mind.