Ayurvedic Interventions in Adolescent Polycystic Ovary Syndrome: A Clinical Case Insight

Abstract

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome is a condition marked by hyperandrogenism and prolonged anovulation. It involves hormonal imbalance that disrupts menstruation, causing anovulation, hirsutism, and acne. Overweight and obesity are common and add further risk. Diagnosis is based on ovulatory dysfunction and excess androgen levels. The following are suggested indicators of ovulatory dysfunction: consecutive menstrual intervals >90 days even in the first year after menstrual onset; menstrual intervals persistently <21 or >45 days 2 or more years after menarche; and lack of menses by 15 years or 2–3 years after breast budding. Androgen excess is indicated by moderate-to-severe hirsutism, persistent acne unresponsive to treatment, or elevated serum total/free testosterone. For adolescents who have features of PCOS but do not meet diagnostic criteria an ‘at risk’ label. Lifestyle modification is the first-line treatment for overweight and obese adolescents with PCOS, along with combined oral contraceptives. Untreated PCOS can lead to irregular cycles, infertility, and metabolic disorders. Artavakshaya, described in Ayurveda as scanty, delayed, or absent menstruation, reflects the clinical features of adolescent PCOS. Treatment includes Deepana, Pachana, Vata Kapha Shamana, Srotoshodhana, Vatanulomana, and use of Agneya Dravyas. This article highlights the Ayurvedic approach to adolescent PCOS through the concept of Artava Kshaya and presents a basal-level treatment strategy via a case study. A 17-year-old female with history of irregular menstruation and prolonged cycles up to 90 days for the past 2 years was treated with Ayurvedic internal medicines. Within 10 days post-treatment, her menstruation resumed and remained regular for three cycles, with noticeable weight loss. This case demonstrates the potential of Ayurveda in managing adolescent PCOS.