Clinical Efficacy of Ayurveda Treatment in Managing Infertility Associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Hypothyroidism: A Case Study
CASE STUDY
Dr. Pooja Dadhich
PG Scholar, Department of Prasuti Tantra evam Stree Roga, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, https://orcid.org/0009-0008-5828-0101
Dr. Anjali Jain
Ph.D. Scholar, Department of Prasuti Tantra evam Stree Roga, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur.
Dr. Mayank Kumar Gupta
PG Scholar, Department of Ayurveda Samhita & Siddhanta, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, https://orcid.org/0009-0008-7122-2045
Prof. (Dr.) B. Pushpalatha
Professor, Department of Prasuti Tantra evam Stree Roga, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur
Prof. (Dr.) Bharathi K.
Professor & HOD, Department of Prasuti Tantra evam Stree Roga, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur
Clinical Efficacy of Ayurveda Treatment in Managing Infertility Associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Hypothyroidism: A Case Study
International Journal of Ayurveda360 | Volume 1 | Issue 5|
Journal Details:
- ISSN (ONLINE) : 3048-7390
- ISSN (PRINT) : 3048-7382
- Bimonthly Journal
How to cite this article:
Dadhich, P., Jain, A., Gupta, M. K., Pushpalatha, B., & Bharathi K.(2025). Clinical Efficacy of Ayurveda Treatment in Managing Infertility Associated with Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Hypothyroidism: A Case Study. International Journal of Ayurveda360, 1(5), 404–411. https://doi.org/10.63247/3048-7390.vol.1.issue5.14
Publication History:
Submitted: 05-March-2025 Revised: 06-April-2025
Accepted: 14-April-2025 Published: 15-April-2025
DOI: 3048-7390.vol.1.issue5.14
DOI Link: https://doi.org/10.63247/3048-7390.vol.1.issue5.14
Address for Correspondence:Dr. Pooja Dadhich, PG Scholar, Department of Prasuti Tantra evam Stree Roga, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur,
Email Id: poojadadhich293@gmail.com
Licensing & Distribution
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ABSTRACT
Background:
Infertility is a common issue, affecting approximately one in six couples attempting to conceive. In Ayurveda, infertility is termed Vandyatva and is discussed extensively in classical texts, including the Caraka Samhita. Factors contributing to Vandyatva include Yonidosha (gynecological disorders), Mansika-Abhitapa (mental stress), Shukra-Artava Dosha (sperm and ovum abnormalities), Ahara-Vihara Dosha (dietary and lifestyle irregularities), Akalyoga (improper timing of intercourse), and Bala-Kshaya (reduced physical strength).
Objective:
To evaluate the clinical efficacy of an Ayurvedic treatment regimen on infertility associated with Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) and hypothyroidism in a case study.
Methods:
A 30-year-old female patient presented with a 1.5-year history of infertility, delayed menstruation (occurring every 40-50 days for the past two years), and was diagnosed with PCOS and hypothyroidism. The intervention included an Ayurvedic regimen of oral medications, including Leptaden, Phalaghrita, and Balabeeja Churna, administered at different stages of the menstrual cycle for a duration of four months.
Results:
After four months of treatment, the patient experienced a missed period and a positive urine pregnancy test.
Conclusion:
The Ayurvedic treatment effectively regulated the patient’s menstrual cycle, improved reproductive health, and contributed to a successful pregnancy. This case underscores the potential role of holistic Ayurvedic interventions in managing infertility related to PCOS and hypothyroidism, supporting the restoration of hormonal balance and fertility.
Keywords: Infertility, Phalaghrita, Balabeej Churna, Polycystic Ovaries, Hypothyroidism.
FULL PAPER
Introduction
Infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after one year or more of regular, unprotected sexual intercourse [1]. It has a significant impact on a woman’s physical, mental, emotional, and social well-being [2]. It is estimated that approximately 15% to 30% of infertile couples undergo a standard fertility evaluation with no identifiable abnormalities [3]. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), around 60 to 80 million couples globally are affected by infertility [4] with the prevalence varying across different regions, impacting an estimated 8% to 12% of couples worldwide [5]
Ovulatory dysfunction is one of the leading causes of female infertility, accounting for approximately 25% of all cases. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a primary factor contributing to ovarian dysfunction in such cases.
Acharya Caraka, in Chikitsa Sthana 15, emphasizes the vital role of Agni (digestive and metabolic fire) in maintaining overall health [6]. Hypothyroidism can be correlated with Dhatvagni Mandya, particularly Meda Dhatvagni Mandya, which leads to disturbances in bodily tissues, particularly in the Maja Dhatu (bone marrow). This can impair the functions of the hypothalamus and pituitary gland, while Shukra Dhatu Vikriti contributes to anovulation.
Although hypothyroidism and PCOS have distinct etiologies, they share several overlapping features. Primary hypothyroidism has been linked to increased ovarian volume and the development of cystic changes in the ovaries [7]. Conversely, thyroid dysfunction is more frequently observed in women with PCOS compared to the general population. In primary hypothyroidism, elevated thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels trigger an increase in prolactin secretion, which in turn inhibits ovulation, resulting in an increased LH:FSH ratio. Elevated prolactin also promotes the secretion of dehydroepiandrosterone (DHEA) from the adrenal glands [8], contributing to the hormonal imbalance characteristic of PCOS.
Case Report
A 30-year-old female patient from Jaipur, Rajasthan, presented to the OPD of Prasuti Tantra and Stri Roga, NIA, with a primary complaint of infertility, having been unable to conceive for 1.5 years. Her menstrual cycles were irregular, occurring every 40-50 days with normal flow for the past two years. The patient had been married for two years and had no history of contraceptive use. She underwent investigations and was diagnosed with hypothyroidism and PCOS. She had been prescribed Thyroxin 25 mcg for two months but experienced no significant improvements. She had also received allopathic treatment for 1.5 years but was dissatisfied with the results. Consequently, she approached the OPD of Prasuti Tantra and Stri Roga, NIA, Jaipur for Ayurvedic management.
Demographic Data (Table 1)
Parameter | Details |
Name of Patient | XXX |
Age | 30 years |
Religion | Hindu |
Occupation | Pharmacist |
Education | Nursing |
Date of First Visit | 23/08/2024 |
Menstrual and Marital History
- Menarche: 14 years
- Last Menstrual Period (LMP): 22/08/2024
- Marital Life: 2 years
- Active Married Life: 2 years
- Contraceptive History: None
Menstrual History (Table 2)
Parameter | Details |
Duration of Menses (Days) | 4 days |
Intermenstrual Period (Days) | 40-50 days |
Regular/Irregular | Irregular |
Pad History | Day 1: Fully soaked |
Clots | Present |
Colour | Red |
Foul Smell | Absent |
Pain | Mild (Lower abdomen) |
Investigation Results
- CBC: Hb 10.9 gm%
- LFT, RFT: Within Normal Limits (WNL)
- RBS: 85.0 mg/dl
- TSH: 3.57 mcg/ml
- USG: Bilateral PCOS, uterus normal, ovaries enlarged with multiple small follicles and echogenic stroma.
Treatment Schedule For The Present Study
- Nidan Parivarjana (Elimination of Causes):
In the first chapter of Sushruta’s Uttartantra, Nidan Parivarjana[9] is emphasized as the primary approach to treatment. This involves a thorough assessment of the patient’s history to identify and eliminate potential causes of the disease. Factors such as improper dietary habits, consumption of fast food, irregular sleep patterns, excessive worrying, incompatible food combinations (Viruddha Aahara), and suppression of natural urges (Vegvidharan) are identified and avoided. This holistic approach promotes overall well-being by restoring balance to the body.
- Aahar Vyavastha (Dietary Changes):
As per Ayurvedic principles, diet plays a crucial role in managing health conditions. The patient was advised to include green leafy vegetables, barley, bitter gourd, green gram, rice, cow milk, and ghee in her diet, along with seasonal fruits and plenty of water. This dietary regimen is designed to restore the balance of Doshas and support the body’s natural healing process. Food is considered a powerful form of medicine in Ayurveda.
Table 3: Ayurvedic Medications and Dosage
Sr. No. | Medicine | Dose | Anupana (Vehicle) |
1 | Bala Beeja Churna | 3 gm BD | Cow’s Milk |
2 | Phalaghrita | 10 ml BD | Cow’s Milk |
3 | Leptaden Tablet | 2 tablets BD | Lukewarm Water |
Table 4: Treatment Progress and Visits
Date | Medicine with Dose | Remarks |
23/08/2024 (1st visit) | 1) Phalaghrita 10 gm BD with cow’s milk | First visit – Initiation of treatment |
03/09/2024 (2nd visit) | Same as above | Follow-up with no significant changes |
10/12/2024 (3rd visit) | 1) Phalaghrita 10 gm BD with cow’s milk | LMP: 16/11/2024 |
20/12/2024 (4th visit) | Same as above | C/O – Delayed menses for 4 days. UPT done, which was positive on 20/12/2024 |
Follow-Up and Outcome
After four months of Ayurvedic treatment, the patient conceived naturally and is currently at 17 weeks of gestation. The successful outcome demonstrates the efficacy of the Ayurvedic treatment regimen in addressing infertility associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and hypothyroidism.
Discussion
In Ayurveda, ovarian factor-related infertility (Vandyatva) is primarily considered a Vata-Kapha predominant disorder, often accompanied by Dhatvagni Mandya (weakened tissue metabolism) and Apana Vayu Vikruti (vitiation of Apana Vayu). These imbalances impair the functions of Rasa and Rakta Dhatu (bodily tissues involved in nutrient transport and blood circulation), disrupting reproductive function. Therefore, the primary line of treatment for infertility involves the pacification of Vata and Kapha, alongside the enhancement of Agni (digestive fire), regulation of Vata movement (Vatanulomana), Brimhana (nourishing therapy), and Rakta Shodhana (blood purification).
Acharya Sushruta discusses the vitiation of Shukra (reproductive tissues) and Artava (menstrual blood) as key contributors to infertility. Since Artava is an Upadhatu (by-product) of Rasa Dhatu, any vitiation of Rasa Dhatu due to Jatharagni Mandya (weak digestive fire) leads to the formation of Ama (toxins). These Ama obstruct the Artavavaha Srotas (reproductive channels), thereby hindering normal reproductive processes. As such, the first step in treating ovarian factor infertility is the correction of Artava Dushti (vitiation of menstrual blood).
Phalaghrita is a traditional ghee-based formulation that plays a significant role in promoting conception and treating various disorders of the female reproductive system [10]. It contains Kutki (Picrorhiza kurroa), a potent liver stimulant that enhances Dhatwagni (tissue metabolism), which supports the formation of healthy tissues and improves ovum quality. Phalaghrita balances the vitiated Vata, Pitta, and Kapha doshas [11], enhancing ovarian function and regulating the menstrual cycle. Additionally, it stimulates the Pituitary-Ovarian axis, promoting gonadotropin secretion and regulating ovarian steroidogenesis [12]. According to Acharya Vagbhata, Phalaghrita is highly effective in treating female infertility due to its properties of Balya (strengthening), Vatahara (Vata-pacifying), Brihaniya (nourishing), Garbhadharana (facilitating conception), and Rasayana (rejuvenating) [13].
The health of the female reproductive system (Yoni) is maintained unless disrupted by Vata imbalance. Acharya Caraka categorizes Bala (Sida cordifolia) under Prajasthapana Mahakashaya (fertility-promoting herbs), while Acharya Sushruta describes it as Vata Shamana (Vata-pacifying). Bala balances Vata and supports Rasa and Rakta Dhatu formation, which promotes Artava and enhances Apana Vayu function. This is essential for Beeja Nirmana (ovum formation) and Beejotsarga (ovulation). Additionally, Bala Beeja Churna regulates Vata, pacifies Pitta, and promotes healthy ovulation by enhancing the function of the Hypothalamus-Pituitary-Ovarian (HPO) axis. The antioxidant properties of Bala further protect reproductive tissues from oxidative stress.
Leptaden tablets were prescribed to support the progesterone phase of the menstrual cycle and were continued throughout pregnancy to enhance fetal outcomes. The formulation contains Jivanti and Kamboji, which inhibit the biosynthesis of prostaglandins, reducing the risk of abortion and preterm labor [14]. Jivanti and Kamboji possess properties such as Garbhasayashodhana (uterine cleansing), Garbhastapana (pregnancy-stabilizing), and Shothaghna (anti-inflammatory). These properties promote a favorable reproductive environment, stimulate the neuroglandular system, and support the implantation of the zygote [15].
Conclusion
Ayurvedic treatments support ovulation and fertility by balancing the doshas and strengthening reproductive tissues. A holistic approach that includes dietary changes, lifestyle modifications, and individualized treatments based on Prakriti (constitutional type) helps regulate hormones and improve menstrual health. Formulations like Phalaghrita, Bala Beeja Churna, and Leptaden play a key role in infertility management, especially in cases of hypothyroidism and PCOS. These treatments enhance ovarian function, follicular development, and uterine health, ultimately increasing the chances of conception.
Patient Consent
The written consent of the patient has been obtained for treatment and publication, ensuring that her identity remains confidential.
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