Effectiveness of Ayurveda for Oligomenorrhea (Irregular Periods)
What is Oligomenorrhea and How Does Ayurveda Define it?
Oligomenorrhea, characterized by infrequent or irregular menstrual cycles that occur at intervals greater than 35 days, is a common gynecological condition affecting many women. Ayurveda, an ancient system of medicine originating in India, views oligomenorrhea as a disruption of the natural balance of the doshas, particularly Vata and Pitta.
Oligomenorrhea
In the video: Oligomenorrhea is explained as an insufficient or irregular flow during your periods. In Ayurveda it is correlated to Arthavakshaya Arthava is a menstrual flow, Kshaya is the irregular or a reduced flow. So Sushruta has broadly classified this Arthavakshaya Oligomenorrhea into a Vata Kapha disorder. So what does the cause of that one is the? excessive stress Emotional agony and also it can be resulted from lot of neoplastic changes like ovarian tumors, polycystic ovarian disease and also can be due to the increased intake of steroids within the athletics also also can be resulting from the abnormal growth of the uterus or the cervix. So what are the symptoms in the Oligomenorrhea? very scanty flow That is the women starts with a regular. period and over a due period, The flow becomes very insufficient or very low. In diet you try to add lot of calcium and vitamin D supplement which can help to reduce the pain and also to increase the flow and just Induce the regular exercise and reduce your caffeine intake and try to reduce your white sugar levels. Also have adequate hydration for this therapy.
Arthava in ayurvedic terms
Aartava has been considered as an important Updhatu in women. It is responsible for the healthy conception and progeny production.According to Ayurveda ,normal menstruation is the indicator of healthy and normal reproductive organ in which interval is one month and duration of flow 5-7 days
According to classics normal menstruation is in which intermenstrual period is one month, duration of blood flow is five to seven days , but not associated with pain and burning sensation. Due to increased physical and emotional stress in routine lifestyle of women alters the physiology of “Hypothalamus- Pitutary-Ovaraian axis” may lead to many gynecological disorders.
According to ayurveda most of menstrual disorders have been described under the heading of Astha Artava Dushti, Asrigdara, Artavakshaya, Nastartava, Yoni Vyapad.
A manual on Arthava kshaya /Oligomenorrhoea
Among the eight different types of menstruation problems, there is clinical condition called ksheena-artava/ artava kshaya
Arthava = menstrual blood
Kshaya = loss/deficiency/absence
Oligomenorrhea or Artava Kshaya, is a subset of Artava Vyapad(menstrual disorder), but it is not one of the eight distinct categories of menstrual diseases. It is characterized by a lack or loss of menstrual blood.
Oligomenorrhoea is defined as menstrual bleeding occurring more than 35 days apart and which remains constant at that frequency. Hypomenorrhea is defined as menstrual bleeding is unduly scanty and lasts for less than 2 days.
Oligomenorrhea can result from an estrogen deficit, a lack of lymph, blood, or other tissues, or from a combination of these factors.
Oligomenorrhea frequently indicates an underlying illness that may be diseases like prolactinomas, Cushing syndrome, congenital adrenal hyperplasia, etc.
In classics Artava Kshaya is not mentioned as a disease but described as a symptom of many gynecological disorders. It is characterized by Yathochitakala Adarshanam (as delayed menstruation), Alpartva (Hypomenorrhea) or Yoni Vedana (Dysmenorrhea). Artava Kshaya is caused due to involvement of Vata and Kapha Dosha which leads to Margavrodha of Artava Vaha Strotasa which are also explained as the cause of Vandhyatava. Artava Kshaya can be corelated with oligomenorrhoea or hypomenorrhea.
The prevalence of oligomenorrhea among general population is 13.5%. It is very much common in young girls. Hormonal disturbances are fairly common in current era due to life style and circadian rhythm disturbances. In this way haphazard life style can be considered as root cause of aartava kshaya. Life-style management along with diet and exercise can play a key role in the correction of aartava kshaya as well as hormonal level.
Symptoms of Arthava kshaya
The most typical oligomenorrhea symptom include:
acne.
headaches.
flashes of heat.
vaginal dripping.
distorted vision.
excessive body and facial hair growth.
Pathogenesis of arthava kshaya
In the Samprapti of Aartava Kshaya the Doshas - Vata & Kapha obstruct the passage or orifices of channels carrying Aartava thus aartava is destroyed. Though aartava is not discharged regular in every month.
Treatment approach on arthava kshaya
Once the exact cause of your problem has been identified, Ayurveda adopts a comprehensive, person-centered approach for Samprapti Vighatan (breaking the etiopathogenesis) to help you regain your healthiest and happiest state of being ,along with advice on ergonomics, food, and lifestyle changes as part of better management.
In modern the treatment is only hormonal supplement which shows many side effect like weight gain, cyst in reproductive organ and unwanted hair growth etc.
The treatment advised for Aartava Kshaya includes Samshodhana therapy .According to Ayurveda principle katu (Pungent), ushna and tikshana aahara dravya are advised as pathya in aartava kshaya. Among those kulattha(Horse gram ) will be taken as aahara dravya for treatment of Aartava kshaya.
Some classical formulations
like rajapravartani vati ,sukumar ghritham ,sukumara kshayam ,annabedi sindhooram ,kumaryasavam ,hinguvachadi choornam ,kallyana ghritham is used based on the root cause of the diseases
Understanding Oligomenorrhea in Ayurveda
In Ayurveda, oligomenorrhea is seen as a manifestation of underlying imbalances in the body, often resulting from irregular lifestyle habits, stress, or hormonal disturbances.
Ayurvedic Perspective on Menstrual Irregularities
Ayurveda considers menstrual irregularities, including oligomenorrhea, as a reflection of overall health and well-being. The holistic approach of Ayurveda focuses on restoring harmony to the body and mind to alleviate these disruptions.
Link Between Oligomenorrhea and Amenorrhea in Ayurveda
In Ayurveda, there is a connection between oligomenorrhea and amenorrhea, wherein prolonged oligomenorrhea can lead to the absence of menstruation (amenorrhea). Ayurvedic treatments aim to prevent such progression and restore regular menstrual cycles.
Causes of Oligomenorrhea and How Ayurveda Addresses Them
The causes of oligomenorrhea can range from hormonal imbalances to lifestyle factors. Ayurveda utilizes a combination of herbal remedies, dietary modifications, and lifestyle practices to address these underlying causes and promote hormonal balance.
Role of Ayurvedic Medicine in Balancing Hormones
Ayurvedic medicines, derived from natural sources such as herbs and plants, are known for their hormonal-regulating properties. These medicines help correct imbalances in estrogen and progesterone levels, which are often associated with menstrual irregularities like oligomenorrhea.
Ayurvedic Diet and Lifestyle Recommendations for Oligomenorrhea
In Ayurveda, emphasis is placed on proper nutrition and lifestyle habits. Specific dietary recommendations and lifestyle modifications can play a significant role in managing oligomenorrhea by reducing stress, enhancing digestion, and supporting overall reproductive health.
Impact of Reproductive Health on Menstrual Irregularities
Reproductive health plays a crucial role in the occurrence of menstrual irregularities. Ayurvedic treatments aim to improve reproductive health by addressing issues such as ovarian function, uterine health, and hormonal imbalances that contribute to oligomenorrhea.
Benefits of Ayurvedic Treatment for Irregular Periods
Ayurvedic remedies offer a natural and holistic approach to managing irregular periods and menstrual bleeding. These remedies are aimed at restoring the balance of the doshas, improving reproductive health, and promoting overall well-being.
Ayurvedic Remedies for Menstrual Bleeding
Herbal formulations in Ayurveda are used to regulate menstrual bleeding, preventing excessive or scanty flow that often accompanies menstrual irregularities like oligomenorrhea. These remedies also aid in reducing pain and discomfort during menstruation.
Ayurvedic Approach to Managing Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common cause of irregular periods and oligomenorrhea in women. Ayurvedic medicine offers a comprehensive approach to managing PCOS by addressing hormonal imbalances, insulin resistance, and ovarian health.
Effectiveness of Ayurvedic Medicine for Regulating Estrogen Levels
Ayurvedic medicine includes herbs and formulations that are known to regulate estrogen levels in the body, which is crucial for maintaining a healthy menstrual cycle. By balancing estrogen, Ayurvedic treatments help alleviate menstrual irregularities.
Comparing Ayurvedic and Conventional Medicine for Oligomenorrhea
When it comes to treating oligomenorrhea, Ayurveda and conventional medicine offer distinct approaches. While conventional medicine often focuses on symptom management through medications, Ayurveda addresses the root causes of oligomenorrhea to promote long-term healing.
Differences in Approaches: Ayurveda vs. Conventional Medicine
Ayurveda emphasizes personalized treatment plans tailored to individual needs, encompassing herbal remedies, dietary modifications, and lifestyle changes. Conventional medicine, on the other hand, may rely more on pharmaceutical interventions.
Long-Term Effects of Ayurvedic Treatment on Fertility
Ayurvedic treatments for oligomenorrhea not only aim to regulate menstrual cycles but also improve overall reproductive health, which can have positive effects on fertility. By addressing hormonal imbalances and supporting ovarian function, Ayurveda may enhance fertility outcomes.
Benefits of Ayurvedic Medicine in Uterine Health
Ayurvedic medicine places importance on maintaining uterine health to prevent gynecological disorders such as oligomenorrhea. Herbal supplements and therapies in Ayurveda promote uterine strength and function, aiding in the management of menstrual irregularities.
Managing Menstrual Irregularities with Ayurveda
Ayurveda offers a comprehensive approach to managing menstrual irregularities like oligomenorrhea through a combination of herbal remedies, dietary guidelines, and lifestyle modifications. By addressing the underlying hormonal imbalances and supporting reproductive health, Ayurvedic treatments aim to restore regular menstrual cycles.
Addressing Hormonal Imbalances Through Ayurvedic Treatments
Ayurvedic treatments target hormonal imbalances that contribute to menstrual irregularities, including oligomenorrhea. By incorporating specific herbs and therapies, Ayurveda helps regulate hormone levels and promote harmonious functioning of the menstrual cycle.
Role of Ayurvedic Practices in Regulating Ovulation
Ovulation plays a key role in menstrual regularity, and disruptions in this process can lead to conditions like oligomenorrhea. Ayurvedic practices, such as specific yoga poses, herbal supplements, and stress-reducing techniques, can support healthy ovulation and improve menstrual cycle patterns.
Ayurvedic Remedies for Secondary Amenorrhea
Secondary amenorrhea, the absence of menstruation in women who have previously had normal cycles, can be effectively addressed through Ayurvedic remedies. These remedies focus on restoring hormonal balance, rejuvenating reproductive tissues, and promoting the resumption of regular menstrual flow.