Written by: Dr. Shraddha Thakur
Table of contents
- Introduction
- What is PCOS
- .Cause of PCOS
- Common symptoms of PCOS
- How PCOS affect your body
- How PCOS is diagnosed
- Naturopathy understanding of PCOS
- Naturopathy Management of PCOS
- Yogic Management of PCOS
Introduction
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition That affects a woman's hormone level
- Women with PCOS produce higher-than-normal amount of male hormones. This hormone imbalance cause then to skip menstrual period and makes it harder for them to get pregnant.
- PCOS also cause hair growth on the face and body, and baldness and it can contribute to long- term health problem like diabetes and heart disease
Birth control pills and diabetes drugs can help fix the hormone
What is PCOS
PCOS is a syndrome or group of symptoms that affects the ovaries and ovulation. It's three main features are :
- Cysts in the ovaries
- High levels of male hormone
- Irregular or skipped periods
in PCOS many small, fluid-filled in sacs grow inside the ovaries.
The word polycystic means many cysts
Cause of PCOS
2.Insulin resistance
Women with PCOS have insulin resistance meaning that their cells can't use insulin properly .
Insulin is a hormone the pancreas produces to help the body use sugar from foods for energy when cells can't use insulin properly, the body demand for insulin increase the pancreas makes more insulin to compensate. Extra insulin triggers the ovaries to produce more male hormone.
Obesity is a major cause of insulin resistance. Both obesity and insulin resistance can increase your risk for type 2 diabetes mellitus
3.Inflammation
Women with PCOS often have increased levels of inflammation in their body. Being overweight can also contribute to inflammation.
Studies have linked excess inflammation to higher androgen levels
Common symptoms of PCOS
The most common PCOS symptom are-
(a) Irregular periods
A lack of ovulation prevents the uterine lining from shedding every month. Some women with PCOS get fewer than eight period a year
(b) Heavy bleeding
The uterine lining builds up for a longer period of time, so the periods you do get can be heavier than normal
( c) Hair growth
More than 70 percent of women with this condition grow hair on their face and body- including on their back, belly and chest excess hair growth is called hirsutism
(d) Acne
Male hormone can make the skin oiler than usual and cause breakout on areas like the face, chest, and upper back
( e) Weight gain
Up to 80 percent of women with PCOS are overweight or obese
( f) Male
Pattern baldness- hair on the scalp gets thinner and fall out
( g) Darkening of the skin
Dark patches of skin can from can from in body creases like those on the neck in the groin and under the breast
( h) Headaches
Hormone changes can trigger headaches in some women
How PCOS affects your body
Having higher -than-normal androgen levels can affect your fertility and other aspects of your health.
(a) Infertility
To get pregnant you have to ovulate. Women who don't ovulate regularly don't release as many eggs to be fertilized. PCOS is one of the leading cause of infertility in women.
(b) Metabolic syndrome
Up to 80 percent of women with PCOS are overweight or obese. Both obesity and PCOS increase your risk for high blood sugar, high blood pressure, low HDL( good) cholesterol, and high LDL( bad) cholesterol.
Together, these factors are called metabolic syndrome, and they increase the risk for heart disease, diabetes and stroke.
(c) Sleep apnea
This condition cause repeated pauses in breathing during the night, which interrupt sleep.
Sleep apnea is more common in women who are overweight- especially if they also have PCOS.
The risk for sleep apnea is 5 to 10 times higher in obese women with PCOS than in those without PCOS.
(d) Endometrial cancer
During ovulation the uterine lining sheds. if you don't ovulate every month, the lining can build up.
A thickened uterine lining can increase your for endometrial cancer.
(e) Depression
Both hormonal changes and symptoms like unwanted hair growth can negatively affect your emotions. Many with PCOS end up experiencing depression and anxiety.
How PCOS is diagnosed
Diagnosed PCOS in women who have at least two of these three symptoms-
- High androgen levels
- Irregular menstrual cycles
- Cysts in the ovaries
Your doctor should also ask whether you had symptoms like acne, face and body hair growth. And weight gain
A pelvic exam can look for any problem with your ovaries or other part of your reproductive tract.
During this test, your doctor insert gloved fingers into your vagina and checks for any growth in your ovaries or uterus.
Blood tests
Check for higher-than - normal levels of male hormone. You might also have blood test to check your cholesterol, insulin, and triglyceride levels to evaluate your risk for related conditions like heart and diabetes.
An ultrasound use sound waves to look for abnormal follicles and other problem with your ovaries and uterus.
Differential diagnoses
- Pregnancy
- Hypothyroidism
- Ovarian tumors
- Cushing syndrome
Naturopathy understanding of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome(PCOS)
Naturopathy medicine focuses on person living in accordance with nature PCOS is a holistic disease having its effect on skin, hair, mood, sleep patterns, fat storage etc.
In naturopathy, abdominal disturbances or digestive imbalance is one of the important endocrine disruptor due to deranged circadian rhythms is regarded as the cause for all disease. In this case , the encumbrance of the uterus with morbid matter is one of the prime cause.
Improper lifestyle and unbalanced diet, which leads to abnormal inhibition of digestive fire, which manifest in irregular eating habits , which further lead to metabolic cobdition are some of the accumulation of morbid matter.
Resulting in encumbrance in yogic and vedic scripture , health is defined as a balance at all level and ill health as imbalance according to yoga text yoga vasistha , pcos comes under adhija vyadhi ( stress- born) disease . It begains as an intrrnal imbalance caused by disturbance at the mind level ( manomaya kosha) . The uncobtrolled emotional response patterns that was confined intially to the manomaya kosha is gradually transfered to the pranayama kosha leading to disturbance in the breathing . If not correct at this level, it leads to disease manifestation at anamaya kosha, the development of the disoder at the physical plane.
Naturopathy Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome(PCOS
(a) Diet and fasting
In India, naturopathic fasting is defined as physical, psychological, sensory and mental rest, which includes voluntary abstinence from the intake of any kind of food , solid or liquid that demands digestion ( except water) for a definite purpose and period time.
Fasting therapy is the first line of management and used is a therapeutic modality to address toxemia. The morbid matter accumulated due to faulty lifestyle is corrected by giving the required amount of physical, psychological and psychological rest to improve vitality.
Fasting promotes the stimulation of excretory system, intestine, liver, kidney, lung and skin. Therapeutic fasting is the management of metabolic and endocrine conditions.
After fasting diet management it's an important measure in treating PCOS co- morbidities .
Naturopathy, vegetarian from whole-food, low- calorie- low fat diet comprising more raw vegetables, fruits and nuts is prescribed. Frequently of meals, portions size and type of be include is advised individually based an the requirement of the patient.
(b) Hydrotherapy
Hydrotherapy is one of the most excellent modes of naturopathic management. By using various temperature, pressure and modes of treatment, desired affect can be produced through simple applications.
(1) Tonic sitz bath
Immersing legs in hot foot bath , wet pack on the head and sitting in cold sitz bath. Rubbing of hips, back and sides by the attendant should be continued during the entire bath along with rubbing of abdomen and thighs.
Duration- 1 to 3 minutes, 55 to 65 degree temperature
The main aim to produce thermic and mechanical effects upon the reflex area associated with pelvic and lower abdomen.
(2) Short cold pack
Wet sheet wrung very dry gives tonic effect and it of great value in case such as amenorrhea and irregulations of menstruation.
(3) Short very cold douche
From of broken jet , percussion, or fan douche with full pressure can be administered unless suffering from any painful condition.
It help to have a powerful reflex effect on lower abdomen and pelvic viscera's and is useful for irregular menstruation.
(4) Very hot
Very hot and cold application to the feet stimulate involuntary muscle of uterus , pelvic and abdominal viscera by increased vascular activity and help in restoring menstruation.
(5) Cold immersion bath
Very helpful to stimulate overall metabolism, especially in case of overweight, insulin resistance and slowed nutrition.
(c) Mud therapy
Mud therapy is a common modality used in naturopathy along with hydrotherapy
Mud therapy is been extensively used in spa culture owing to its effects in relaxation and stress reduction
(d) Sun therapy
Patient with PCOS to have lower level of serum vitamin D which affect serum androgen levels, metabolic parameters and ovarian function.
Heliotherapy is effective in improving vitamin D levels in many studies.
( e) Acupuncture- points
- CV, 3,
- CV,6
- ST, 25
- ST,25
- ST, 29
- SP, 9
- LI, 4
- GV, 20
- LIV, 3
- PC, 6
Yogic Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome(PCOS)
The primary aim of yoga therapy is to attain homeostasis.
Yoga managing the factor affecting PCOS such a stress, blood sugar levels, overweight and other metabolic and endocrine conditions.
Regular practice of yoga significant reduction in anti mullerian hormone, luteinizing hormone, testosterone in menstrual frequency
Asana of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome(PCOS)
Surya namaskar
Increase basal metabolic rate.
Baddhakonasana
This asana involves stretching and opening the pelvic area. This gentle stimulation of the pelvic region may help improve blood circulation to the ovaries and uterus, potentially benefiting ovarian function.
Suptabaddhakonasana
This pose can help stretch and relax the pelvic area and improve blood circulation.
Chakki chalanasana
This asanas involves circular movements of the legs, which can stimulate the pelvic area. This stimulation is believed to have a positive effect on the reproductive organs, potentially helping to improve ovarian function. The circular leg movements in this pose can also help tone and strengthen the abdominal muscles, which can be beneficial for women with PCOS who may struggle with weight management and abdominal discomfort.,this asanas may help reduce stress and anxiety. Stress management is important for individuals with PCOS because stress can exacerbate symptoms and hormonal imbalances.This asana involves a forward bending motion, which can aid in improving digestion and may help with gastrointestinal issues .
Trikonasana
This asana improves the abdominal organs and muscles which helps in curing PCOS.
Parshkonasana
This asana involves a deep stretch and rotation of the pelvic area. This can help stimulate and improve blood circulation to the pelvic organs, including the ovaries and uterus, potentially benefiting ovarian function which helps in curing PCOS.
Sarvanagasana
It can improve blood circulation to the pelvic area and regulate hormone production.
Halasana
This asana is thought to stimulate the thyroid gland, which plays a crucial role in regulating hormonal balance in the body. A well-functioning thyroid can help improve overall hormone regulation, which is important for managing PCOS.The pose involves compressing the abdominal area, which can help massage and stimulate the abdominal organs, including the ovaries. This stimulation may promote better ovarian function.
Bhujangasana(Cobra Pose)
It may help stimulate the ovaries and improve their function.
Dhanurasana
This pose can massage and tone the abdominal organs, including the ovaries.
This asana helps relieve stress and can regulate menstrual cycles.
Paschimottasana:
This asana helps relieve stress and can regulate menstrual cycles.
paschimottanasana more details...
Ardha Matsyendrasana
It can stimulate the reproductive organs and balance hormones.
Pranayama (Breathing Exercises) of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome(PCOS)
Deep Breathing
Practicing deep, diaphragmatic breathing can help reduce stress and anxiety, which are often associated with PCOS.
Bhramari Pranayama
This humming bee breath technique can have a calming effect on the nervous system and help manage stress.
Yoga Nidra of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome(PCOS)
Yoga Nidra, or yogic sleep, is a deep relaxation technique that can help alleviate stress and promote hormonal balance.
Meditation and Mindfulness of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome(PCOS)
Regular meditation and mindfulness practices can reduce stress and promote emotional well-being, which is essential in managing PCOS.
Remember that PCOS management is highly individualized, and what works for one person may not work for another. It’s essential to work closely with healthcare professionals, including naturopaths, dietitians, and yoga instructors, to create a comprehensive and effective plan for managing PCOS based on your specific needs and circumstances.