PCOS — Polycystic Ovary Syndrome & Ayurveda in Nyon

The consultation explores cycle length and regularity, ovulation, periods of amenorrhoea, changes in weight, appetite, digestion, physical activity, sleep and stress levels.

Acne, increased hair growth, hair loss, fatigue, food cravings and personal or family metabolic history may also provide useful information. Blood tests, ultrasound results and prescribed treatments are considered when available.

Assessment distinguishes Prakriti (individual constitution) from Vikriti (current imbalance) and may evaluate Vata, Pitta, Kapha, Apana Vata and Agni according to the woman’s actual presentation.

This individualisation is particularly important in PCOS. A lean woman with very irregular cycles, disturbed sleep and high stress may not need the same approach as someone with insulin resistance, weight gain and slower metabolic function.

Nutrition is especially important when PCOS is associated with metabolic features. Recommendations may focus on meal quality and regularity, satiety, digestive tolerance and overall nutritional balance, rather than automatically prescribing a restrictive diet.

When insulin resistance has been identified, nutrition, physical activity and sleep become particularly important alongside appropriate medical follow-up. Ahara (nutrition) is therefore adapted to the individual metabolic profile and Agni rather than to the diagnosis of PCOS alone.

Physical activity is adapted to metabolic health, constitution and energy levels. A sustainable approach combining regular movement, sufficient recovery and good-quality sleep is usually preferable to extreme or short-term changes.

Vihara (lifestyle guidance) also includes daily rhythm and stress management, particularly when stress is associated with disturbances in sleep, eating patterns or menstrual regularity.

Individualised Ayurvedic herbal formulations may be considered according to constitution, Agni, menstrual pattern and current treatments.

Special care is needed when the patient is taking metformin, hormonal contraception, fertility medication or other prescribed drugs.

Depending on the assessment, therapies such as Abhyanga (Ayurvedic oil massage), Udvartana (traditional massage using herbal powders) or other selected treatments may complement the plan. The same therapies are not appropriate for every PCOS profile.

Panchakarma (a group of classical Ayurvedic therapeutic cleansing procedures) is not automatically required in PCOS and should not be presented as a “hormonal detox”.

In selected patients, specific procedures may be considered after assessing constitution, Agni, nutritional state, metabolic profile, menstrual cycle, general strength, medications and contraindications.