The Role of Homoeopathy in Restoring Hormonal Balance : Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Abstract
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a common endocrine disorder among females, particularly during reproductive age, affecting approximately 6–15% of the female population. Initially, amenorrhea, hirsutism, and obesity were frequently associated with the condition. Today, it is characterized by a combination of ovulatory dysfunction, hyperandrogenism, and polycystic ovaries as observed through morphological assessment.

PCOS was more common in middle-aged women in the past, but it is now increasingly prevalent among women aged 18 to 30 years, with approximately 1 in 10 females experiencing it. PCOS is a familial condition, supporting the role of genetic factors in its development.

PCOS is a complex polygenic disorder that affects multiple systems. It disrupts hormonal balance, influencing steroid hormone regulation, gonadotropin action, FSH levels, insulin action and secretion, and chronic inflammation. These factors contribute to menstrual irregularities, obesity, and other complications.

Additionally, PCOS can lead to lethargy, sleeplessness, headaches, dry skin, acne, hirsutism, and hyperpigmentation (Acanthosis nigricance), particularly on the neck and armpits. It is also associated with oligomenorrhea, menorrhagia, metrorrhagia, and amenorrhea. In some cases, unpredictable bleeding and frequent vaginal bleeding episodes are also observed.

PCOS can be diagnosed through ultrasound and the presence of hyperandrogenism. On ultrasound, both ovaries typically contain multiple (>10–12) small follicles (~2–9 mm in diameter) that are closely spaced along the periphery of the ovary. A polycystic ovary has a mean volume of >10 cm³, whereas a normal ovary in the follicular phase has a volume of <8 cm³.

Nowadays, PCOS has become more common due to sedentary lifestyles, excessive consumption of junk food, obesity, stress, lack of physical exercise, and the use of oral contraceptive (OC) pills.

One day, a 19-year-old girl visited me with complaints of irregular menstruation, excessive facial hair growth, and hair fall. She experienced menstrual irregularities, including prolonged bleeding with heavy clots. She also reported feeling fatigued easily and mentioned that she only got her periods when taking allopathic medication. I advised her to undergo ultrasonography (USG). Her ultrasound findings showed that the right ovary measured 4.3 × 2.6 × 4.1 cm and the left ovary measured 3.6 × 2.0 × 3.5 cm.

As mentioned, PCOS is more common during the reproductive age and has a deleterious effect on women’s reproductive health. The major complication women face is infertility. In addition to this, PCOS is associated with an increased risk of type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, sleep apnea, and gynecological cancers.

Since PCOS affects multiple systems of the body, proper treatment is necessary to manage and control the condition. Pregnancy is still possible for women with PCOS, and advanced reproductive techniques such as IVF and other treatments can assist with conception.

In managing PCOS, lifestyle modifications play a crucial role. Regular physical exercise and yoga help in maintaining weight and improving physical stability. Additionally, practicing meditation can be beneficial for mental health and stress management.

Following a strict diet is essential, which should include low-carb foods, high-protein meals, and fibre-rich foods. It is important to avoid junk food, carbonated drinks, and Foods containing preservatives to effectively manage PCOS.

       Homeopathy can play a significant role in managing endocrine disturbances and helping with polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

• Hormonal Regulation:

In homeopathy, certain remedies can stimulate ovulation by regulating hormonal balance, which is a hallmark of PCOS.

• Symptom Management:

Excessive hair growth in females can be troublesome for cosmetic reasons. Homeopathy can help reduce excessive hair growth.

• Anxiety Management:

Homeopathy not only addresses physical symptoms but can also help manage anxiety, mood swings, and depression associated with PCOS.

• Fertility Enhancement:

Homeopathic remedies can improve ovulation, increase the chances of conception, and enhance fertility by improving both sperm quality and quantity.

Homeopathic Therapeutics for PCOS
Homeopathy works miraculously in managing PCOD and PCOS. Remedies such as Thuja, Apis Mellifica, Pulsatilla, Sepia, Lachesis, Calcarea Carb, Belladonna, Graphites, Natrum Muriaticum, and Phosphorus can be highly effective.

• Thuja and Apis Mellifica are particularly beneficial for ovarian cysts.

• Pulsatilla works effectively in cases of delayed or absent menstruation, mood swings, obesity, and emotional imbalances.
• Sepia is indicated for ovarian cysts, fatigue, lethargy, and hormonal disturbances.
• Lachesis is highly effective in improving menstrual flow, reducing hot flashes, and alleviating bloating.
• Calcarea Carb is suitable for women prone to weight gain, sluggishness, fatigue, and anxiety, along with ovarian cysts and menstrual disturbances.

Additionally, remedies such as Oophorinum, Aurum Muriaticum Natronatum, Senecio Aureus, Bromium, and Apis Mellifica can also be prescribed.

Following a holistic approach, including a balanced diet, regular exercise, yoga, meditation, and homoeopathy, can help effectively manage PCOD and PCOS.

Reference:

1. API Textbook of Medicine : Indian Books & Periodicals Publishers . 11^th Edition: 2019.
2. Jameson JL, Fauci AS , Kasper DL , Hauser SL . Harrison’s Principles of Internal Medicine.
3. Merc A. Fritz Leon Speroff : Clinical Gynecological Endocrinology  and Infertility. 
4. Mark O Goodarzi et al. Nt Rev Endocrinol. 2011 Apr.
5.  

Miss. Aditi Ajit Patil  

IV^th   B.H.M.S. 

Late Mrs Housabai Homoeopathic Medical College & Hospital Nimshirgaon, Kolhapur, Maharashtra