A CASE REPORT ON AYURVEDIC MANAGEMENT OF SECONDARY AMENORRHEA DUE TO POLYCYSTIC OVARIAN SYNDROME

Abstract

Secondary amenorrhea is the absence of menstruation for a period of 6 months or longer in a woman with established normal cycles. Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common causes of pathological secondary amenorrhea. The diagnosis of polycystic ovarian syndrome is based on the presence of any 2 among the criteria: oligo and/or anovulation, hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries. In Ayurveda, it can be considered Nashtartava. Modern management of PCOS is primarily focused on the use of hormonal preparations like oral contraceptive pills and insulin sensitizers like metformin. In cases resistant to medical therapy, laparoscopic ovarian drilling, and ovarian wedge resection surgeries are employed. The usage of contraceptive pills is associated with adverse effects like spotting or breakthrough bleeding (BTB), nausea, headache, breast tenderness, weight gain, mood changes, low libido, and dermatologic problems.
This is a case report of a 24 year old unmarried woman with delayed menstrual cycles, last menstrual period 6 months back and increased facial hair growth, and mood swings for 6 years. On USG, she was diagnosed with PCOS. For this problem, she took allopathic medication twice. Despite having a few subsequent normal cycles, she developed symptoms including mood swings, headaches, excessive sweating, hair loss, and weight gain. She was forced to stop medications due to these problems which are the adverse effects of hormonal medications. She was admitted in In Patient Department treatment was given based on Nashtartava management. Acharya Susruta explains that Nashtartava occurs in females due to Vata kaphaavarana of artavavahasrothas. Samshodhana (purificatory procedure) and Agneya dravyaupayoga (use of drugs with hot potency) are the line of management mentioned in Ayurveda. Purificatory procedures like Vamana, Virechana, and Vasthi were administered with proper care.She attained menstruation shortly after treatment, followed by two more cycles at an interval of 35–37 days. Her issues like mood swings, headaches, and facial hair growth also subsided. This case demonstrates the role of Ayurveda in the management of Nashtartava without any adverse effects.