TLDR Ayurveda treats PCOS by balancing body elements and using lifestyle changes and herbs.
The paper "A Review of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome In Ayurveda" explores the Ayurvedic perspective on Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS), a common endocrine disorder among women of reproductive age characterized by hyperandrogenism, oligomenorrhoea, anovulation, and polycystic ovaries. The authors discuss the similarities between PCOS and certain Ayurvedic conditions like Yoni Vyapad and Aartavadushti, noting that Ayurveda does not explicitly describe PCOS but attributes it to imbalances in Dosha, Dhatu, and Updhatu. The proposed Ayurvedic treatment includes lifestyle modifications (Dincharya & Ritucharya), avoidance of causative factors (Nidaan Parivarjana), detoxification (Samshodhana), and the use of specific Ayurvedic drugs (Aaganeya & Artavajanan Dravyas).
14 citations,
February 2016 in “Journal of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Research” Blood tests are needed to confirm high male hormone levels in women with PCOS, as physical signs alone are not reliable.
2 citations,
July 2012 in “Journal of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology” A 12-year-old girl with very high testosterone and insulin resistance improved with birth control pills, suggesting PCOS can cause high testosterone without tumors.
3 citations,
January 2012 in “Hanyang Medical Reviews” The document concludes that more research is needed to create suitable diagnostic criteria and understand PCOS in Korean women, and genetics may allow for personalized treatment.
67 citations,
February 2010 in “Acta Obstetricia et Gynecologica Scandinavica” Hirsutism is a strong sign of high male hormones and metabolic problems in women with PCOS, but acne and hair loss are not.
85 citations,
June 2006 in “Best Practice & Research Clinical Endocrinology & Metabolism” The document concludes that hirsutism is the main sign for diagnosing hyperandrogenism, which requires a detailed patient history and physical exam.
1 citations,
April 1993 in “Problemy e̊ndokrinologii” Spironolactone effectively reduces symptoms of hyperandrogenism like hirsutism and acne.