Gynaecological disorders refer to medical conditions that specifically affect the female reproductive system including the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, and vagina. some common gynaecological disorders are:
Endometriosis: The tissue that lines the uterus (endometrium) grows outside the uterus. Ectopic growth of endometrial glands and stroma. It is benign but malignant transformation is possible.
Types-
- Peritoneal endometriosis- The peritoneum is a thin membrane that lines your abdomen and pelvis.
- Ovarian endometriomas- These are dark, fluid filled cyst. They are also called chocolate cyst.
- Deep-infiltrating endometriosis- In this type, the endometrial tissue has invaded the organ either within or outside the pelvic cavity. This can include ovaries, rectum, bladder and bowels.
Symptoms: Pelvic pain, painful menstruation, pain during intercourse, and infertility.
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS):
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects women of reproductive age.
Symptoms:
- heavy, prolong, intermittent and absent periods.
- Infertility (Irregular periods, usually with a lack of ovulation can make it difficult to become pregnant) PCOS is a leading cause of infertility.
- acne or oily skin
- excessive hair on the face or body
- male-pattern baldness or hair thinning
- weight gain, especially around the belly.
Cause: The cause of PCOS is unknown but women with a family history or type 2 diabetes are at higher risk, Hormonal imbalance with high levels of androgens (male hormones).
Fibroids:
Uterine fibroids are the commonest of all pelvic tumours. Originate from the single smooth muscle cell of myometrium. It is a benign growth. Surrounded by a pseudo capsules which consists of compressed normal uterine wall. Tumours are relatively avascular, major blood vessels are distributed in the capsules. Present in 20% of women in the reproductive age group.
- Symptoms: 50% fibroids are asymptomatic. Abnormal uterine bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure symptoms i.e. urine retention, constipation, flatulence, hydronephrosis.
- Other risk factor: fatty food, obesity, sedentary life, increased BMI, PCOS, fatty liver, family history, increasing age, nulliparity.
Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): PID is a disease of upper genital tract. It is a spectrum of infection and inflammation of the upper genital tract organ typically involving the uterus, fallopian tube, ovaries, pelvic structures.
- Symptoms: Lower abdominal pain, fever, unusual vaginal discharge, and painful intercourse.
- Cause: Infection of the reproductive organs, often due to sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Treatment: Antibiotics to clear the infection and prevent complications.
Ovarian Cysts:
- Symptoms: Abdominal pain, bloating, and changes in menstrual cycles.
- Cause: Fluid-filled sacs on or inside the ovaries.
- Treatment: Monitoring for small, non-problematic cysts, or surgery for larger or painful cysts.
Vaginitis:
- Symptoms: Vaginal itching, burning, unusual discharge, and discomfort.
- Cause: Infections (bacterial, yeast, or viral) or irritation.
Menstrual Disorders: Menstrual disorder are the problems that affect a normal menstrual cycle. Including Abnormal uterine bleeding, Amenorrhea, Oligomenorrhea, Dysmenorrhea.
- Symptoms: Irregular, heavy, or painful periods.
- Cause: Multiple factors, including conditions hormonal imbalances, uterine conditions, and certain medical conditions.
Ayurvedic Management of gynaecological disorders:
- Nidan parivarjan i.e. avoid the causative factors.
- Dietary and Lifestyle Changes:
- Follow a balanced diet. (whole grains, fresh fruits, and vegetables)
- Avoid excessive intake of spicy, oily, and fried foods.
- Stay hydrated.
- Medications :
- Ayurveda uses various herbs to balance hormonal activity and regulate the menstrual cycle. Some common herbs include ashoka, shatavari, lodhra, and aloevera.
- Herbs are selected according to individual’s prakruti and type of disorder. They are often combined in specific combinations according to needs of patient.
- Some Ayurvedic preparations may involve the use of mineral and metal-based formulations, such as Swarna Bhasma (gold ash, Ras bhasma etc. to support women’s health.
- Panchakarma:
- Panchakarma is a detoxification process in Ayurveda. Under the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner, this therapy can help remove toxins and balance the doshas.
- Yoga and Pranayama:
- Practice yoga asanas like Bhujangasana (cobra pose), Dhanurasana (bow pose), and Supta Baddha Konasana (reclining bound angle pose) can help menstrual discomfort.
- Pranayama can help manage stress and balance hormonal activity.
- Consult an Ayurvedic Practitioner :
- It’s essential to consult a qualified Ayurvedic practitioner who can evaluate your unique constitution, dosha imbalances, and specific menstrual issues. They can advice a personalized treatment plan.
