In recent times, there has been a tremendous change in the lifestyle of people. These changes do have an impact on the health of the people and make them prone to certain diseases and their complications. Polycystic Ovarian Disease (PCOD) is one such disease. It is a multisystem endocrine syndrome. This is due to the ovarian effect resulting in menstrual disturbances and various metabolic disturbances like hyperandrogenism and obesity.
PCOD is more common between 15-25 years of age. It has a genetic and familial tendency. PCOD includes chronic anovulation, polycystic ovaries on ultrasound (USG), hyperandrogenism, raised LH levels, low FSH levels, elevated fasting insulin, and low serum binding hormone globulin. PCOD may be autosomal dominant inherited.
Polycystic ovarian disease is associated with metabolic disturbances. Insulin resistance, and obesity all contribute to metabolic disturbances. They have high chances of metabolic syndrome characterized by hypertension, increased fasting glucose, dyslipidemia, and increased waist circumference.
Metabolic syndrome is prevalent in women with PCOD and it is on the rise due to alterations in the lifestyle. Therefore, PCOD women must be screened for metabolic syndrome to prevent long-term complications like cardiovascular disease, type 2 Diabetes mellitus, and endometrial cancer.
This article will cover homeopathic remedies for PCOD, the cause behind PCOD, symptoms, risk factors, prevention and management, and complete treatment.
Causes of PCOD
The causes of polycystic ovarian disease are not yet fully understood, but many factors are thought to contribute to its development.
1. Hormones
Changes in certain hormones such as insulin, testosterone, and luteinizing hormone can contribute to the development of pcod.
Insulin resistance is a common finding in women with pcod, which means that the body is less able to use the hormone effectively. Higher testosterone levels in women can cause irregular or absent menstrual cycles, while increased LH levels can interfere with ovulation.
2. Genetics
Recent studies suggest that genetics play a major role in the development of pcod. You may be more likely to develop pcod if your mother or sister has it. Researchers have identified certain genetic markers that may be linked to pcod.
3. Weight
Excessive weight or obesity can increase the risk of developing pcod. Obesity is linked to higher levels of insulin resistance and increased production of testosterone.
Losing weight can help improve symptoms while gaining weight can worsen them.
4. Stress
Stress can also contribute to the development of PCOD. Stress increases levels of cortisol in the body, which can interfere with normal hormonal balance and disrupt ovulation.
Reducing stress through relaxation techniques such as yoga or meditation may help improve symptoms associated with PCOD.
5. Environment
Exposure to certain environmental toxins may also play a role in the development of PCOD.
Endocrine-disrupting chemicals found in plastic, pesticides, and other products may interfere with normal hormone production and lead to hormonal imbalances associated with pcod.
Minimizing your exposure to these chemicals by eating organic produce and replacing plastic containers with glass or stainless steel is recommended.
Signs and symptoms of Polycystic Ovarian Disease
- Hormonal imbalance
- Menstrual irregularities
- Absence of menses
- Acne
- Bloating
- Constipation
- Weight gain
- Hair fall
- Female pattern baldness
- Facial hair growth
- Hirsutism
- Mood swings
- Lack of mental alertness
- Sleep apnea
- Irritability
- Hyperandrogenism
- Dysmenorrhea
- Craving for sugar
- Insulin resistance
- Infertility
- Darkening of Skin
- Associated diseases like thyroid
- Cyst in ovaries
- Pain before menses
- Scanty periods
Risk factors of PCOD
While the exact cause of polycystic ovarian disease is unknown, several factors increase the risk of developing the condition. These include:
1. obesity
Obesity is one of the most significant risk factors for COPD. Research has shown that women who are obese have an increased likelihood of developing the condition.
Additionally, it has been found that women with abdominal obesity are more likely to develop pcod than those with fat stored elsewhere in their bodies.
2. Diets high in carbs and fats
Diet can also influence the development of pcod. Studies have found that diets high in carbohydrates and fats can increase the risk of developing the condition.
Eating a diet rich in vegetables, fruits, and lean protein can help reduce the risk of developing pcod.
Additionally, avoiding processed food, sugar-sweetened beverages, and trans-fat may reduce the chance of developing this disorder.
3. Sedentary lifestyle
Exercise is also a key factor in preventing pcod. Active women have been found to have a lower risk of developing the condition than those who are sedentary.
Regular physical activity can help keep weight in check, improve insulin sensitivity, and maintain hormone balance. Exercise also helps reduce stress levels, which can be beneficial in managing symptoms of pcod.
4. Genetics
In addition to lifestyle factors, genetics play an important role in the development of pcod.
Women with a family history of pcod or endocrine disorders such as diabetes or thyroid disorders are more likely to develop this condition than those without such a family history.
5. Thyroid disorder and insulin resistance
Finally, thyroid disorder and insulin resistance are both associated with an increased risk for pcod. Women who have hypothyroidism may be at higher risk for pcod as these conditions affect hormone levels.
Insulin resistance can lead to weight gain and increased levels of male hormones, both of which can contribute to the development of pcod.
Diagnosis of PCOD
The diagnosis of PCOD begins with a complete medical history regarding onset, modalities, and severity of the symptoms and performing a physical examination.
It is usually made by clinical examination that is by signs and symptoms experienced by the patients. Your doctor will suggest lower abdomen ultra-sonography (USG) to confirm the diagnosis. If there is a cyst or follicle detected in the ovaries or either of the ovary then the diagnosis will be confirmed.
Polycystic Ovarian Disease is not a specific disease. It is a syndrome characterized by a group of signs and symptoms.
A clear-cut definition of PCOD is important because of the complications associated with PCOD. Women with PCOD are at increased risk of getting, cardiovascular disease, obesity, endometrial cancer, dyslipidemia, diabetes mellitus, hypertension, etc it is also important to diagnose PCOD because of its health implications in other family members and due to the need for life long treatment.
In earlier times the disease was described based on hirsutism, menstrual disturbances, and enlarged ovaries. Only in recent times, the role of insulin resistance in the pathophysiology of PCOD has been recognized. The attention is now being focused on the metabolic consequences of the disease.
Prevention and management of PCOD
- The first step in preventing pcod is to maintain a healthy lifestyle. This includes eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly, and getting enough sleep.
- Eating a balanced diet can help to regulate hormones, reduce inflammation, and maintain a healthy weight. Exercise not only helps with weight loss but also increases insulin sensitivity and reduces inflammation.
- Getting enough sleep helps to reduce stress levels which can be beneficial for hormone regulation.
- Limiting consumption of foods high in sugar and refined carbohydrates is also important as these foods can worsen the symptoms of pcod.
- Eating more fresh fruits, vegetables, lean protein, legumes, nuts, and seeds can help to improve insulin sensitivity and reduce inflammation.
- Additionally, avoiding processed food, sugar-sweetened beverages, and trans-fat may reduce the chance of developing this disorder.
- Acupuncture can help to balance hormones by stimulating energy channels in the body and reducing stress levels. Herbal supplements such as cinnamon or chamomile are also known to reduce insulin resistance and improve fertility in women with pcod.
- Finally, it is important to take care of your mental health as well as your physical health if you are suffering from pcod. it can be helpful to talk to a therapist or counselor who specializes in women’s health issues to better cope with the emotional impacts of pcod.
- Proper counseling and assurance to the patients along with proper management can help a lot in recovery from such a condition.
Best Homeopathic Medicine for pcod/pcos
Homeopathy is a holistic system of medicine that treats not only the symptoms of the disease but also the man who is suffering from the disease.
So, after a complete detailed history of present and past disease and considering the family history, a drug is prescribed which will be based on the individualization of every patient.
In mild cases, improvement can be seen within weeks, whereas in severe cases of PCOD, the improvement will take a longer time. Along with homeopathic medicine, patients must follow a healthy regimen for optimum results.
Now, let us go through some of the homeopathic medicines that can help to treat PCOD. Some of the best homeopathic medicines for the treatment of this condition are mentioned below: –
- Apis mellifica
- Pulsatilla
- Graphite
- Sepia
- Platina
- Natrum muriaticum
- Lachesis
- Aurum Mur Natronatum
- Thuja occidentalis
- Medorrhinum
1. Apis mellifica: – for enlargement or dropsy of the right ovary
Apis is a marvelous remedy for treating polycystic ovarian syndrome. It can be prescribed when the patient complains about burning pain in the stomach.
This medicine can be prescribed in case of enlargement or dropsy of the right ovary resulting in menstrual irregularities and painful menses.
The main indication of this medicine is extreme sensitivity to touch, thirstlessness, and puffiness or edema of the body.
Dosage and potency: 30c, 200c 4 globules (pills) dissolved in half a cup of water 2 times a day for 15 days.
2. Pulsatilla: for irregular menses and dysmenorrhea in pcod
Pulsatilla is a suitable remedy for treating female health-related problems. It can be prescribed when there are irregular menses, heavy or scanty menses, suppressed menses, and dysmenorrhea.
Patients of Pulsatilla have derangement at puberty. The girl at puberty may develop pod-like symptoms. There is an irregular flow of menses or suppressed menses after getting the feet wet.
The main indications of this medicine are thirstless with nearly all complaints, great dryness of mouth, and gastric difficulties from eating rich food like cake, pastry, etc.
Dosage and potency: 200c, 4 globes of pulsatilla in half a cup of water thrice a day till the symptoms disappear. Take 15 minutes gap between meals and medication.
3. Graphites: for obese women who are suffering from pcod
Graphites are one the effective remedies for menstrual irregularities and hormonal disorders like pcod and thyroid. It can be prescribed to women who are inclined to obesity and suffer from habitual constipation with a history of delayed menses.
This medicine can be given when the patient complains about sudden weight gain along with hormonal imbalance and scanty menses. When menses come there is marked morning sickness.
The skin of graphite patients is very unhealthy. Every injury suppurates and old cicatrices break and remain open. When these symptoms are seen in any patient then Graphites is the remedy to be prescribed.
On the mental plane, the patients of Graphites are sad, despondent, and timid and music makes her weep. There is constant thought of death and music is intolerable for them.
Dosage and potency: 30c, 200c, take 4 drops of dilution in half a cup of water twice a day, till the improvement is seen.
4. Sepia: for indifferent women
Sepia is one of the polychrest remedies and has action on almost every part of the body. It is a highly effective medicine in treating problems associated with females.
It can be prescribed when there is intense bearing down pain during menses, especially in the pelvic region. Hen problems like irregular menses, mood irritability, acne on the face, and unwanted facial hair experienced by the patient this medicine can be given.
On the mental plane, the sepia lady is very indifferent and shows the least interest in anything. He is indifferent even to her family member, her occupation, and to whom she loves the most.
Dosage and potency: 200c potency take 4 globules (pills) twice a day till the improvement occurs.
5. Platina: for chronic ovarian disease with sterility
Platina is a marvelous remedy for treating chronic ovarian disease. It can be indicated in cases of dysmenorrhea, metrorrhagia, and amenorrhea that result in sterility in women.
This medicine can be prescribed when patients have excessive sexual desire and there is an aversion to coition. The vulva feels painful and sensitive during coition. She can even bear a napkin around her genitals.
On the mental level, the Platina patient is hysterical, alternately gay, and sad. They are also very arrogant, proud, and haughty. There is a marked superiority complex seen in the patients of Platina which confirms its prescription.
Dosage and potency: 200c or 1m potency of dilution, take 2-3 drops of platina in half a cup of water one time a day for 3 days.
6. Natrum muriaticum: for anemic and emaciated women having irregular menses
Natrum muriaticum is a polychrest remedy and can be prescribed to patients who are anemic, depressed, introverted, and emaciated. There are complaints of irregular menses due to hormonal imbalance and lots of mental stress.
The main indication of natrum muriaticum is that there is a great craving for salts and a great aversion to bread. Also when a woman complains about severe hair fall due to mental stress and hormonal imbalance then this medicine can be prescribed.
On the mental plane, there is a marked weeping disposition. They cry on the slightest cause. Patients are awkward, hasty, drops thing from nervous weakness, irritable, and cross.
Dosage and potency: 30c, 200c potency, take 2-3 drops of dilution in half a cup of water and take twice a day till the improvement.
7. Lachesis: for suppressed or irregular menses
Lachesis is a very effective remedy when given in case of polycystic ovarian disease. It can be prescribed when menses is scanty sometimes skip for months and there is pain before menses which gets relieved by flow.
Patients feeling better during menses is the main indication for the prescription of this medicine.
On the mental level, Lachesis patients are very talkative, and jealous and have long-lasting grief, sorrow, fright, and vexation. They can’t tolerate anything tight around their neck and abdomen.
Dosage and potency: 30c, 200c, 4 globules (pills) twice a day till the improvement is seen.
8. Aurum Mur Natronatum: for indurated ovaries
Aurum Mur Natronatum is a remedy highly known for its marvelous effect on female genital organs. It can be given in case of ovarian cysts, chronic ovarian disease, uterine disorder, and other hormonal imbalances.
It can be well indicated to treat indurated cervix and ovaries in case of uterine tumors. Patients complain about scanty menses or the absence of menses with great pain in the lower abdomen.
On the mental, level the patient is very sad, despondent, and depressed. Has no or little interest in daily work and there is loss of confusion of mind and loss of memory.
Dosage and potency: – 200c, 1 M potency, take 4 globules directly on the tongue once a day for 15 days.
9. Thuja occidentalis: for left-sided ovarian cyst
Thuja is a very effective homeopathic medicine usually given in case of cyst formation, warty excrescences, spongy tumors, and condylomas. The main action of this medicine is on the skin and Genito urinary organ.
This remedy is highly effective in the case of pcod due to cyst formation in the ovaries, female suffer from problems like irregular menses, hirsutism, weight gain, and hair fall.
On the mental plane, the patient of thuja is fixed-minded people. They have a fixed idea and they are firm on it. they are very emotional and sensitive people and music makes them weep.
Dosage and potency: 30c, 200c take 3-4 drops of dilution in half a cup of water twice a day.
10. Medorrhinum: for scanty menses and ovarian pain
Medorrhinum is an often-indicated medicine in treating female genital organ disorders such as painful menses, ovarian pain, tumors in the uterus, and ovarian cysts.
It can be indicated in left-sided ovarian pain or from ovary to ovary and intense menstrual colic.
The main indication of this remedy is that it is suitable for women with chronic pelvic disorders. It is also indicated for chronic ailments due to suppressed gonorrhea.
On the mental plane, the patient has a weak memory and loses the thread of conversation. They cannot speak without weeping. There is difficulty in concentration, nervousness, and mental restlessness.
Dosage and potency: 1M and higher potency of Medorrhinum are effective, take four globules under the tongue, once a day for two weeks or until the improvement appears.