Disorders of the female reproductive system can arise from issues in any of the reproductive organs, including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, cervix, vagina, or breasts. During the reproductive years, these disorders commonly manifest as:
The changes a woman experiences throughout her life can be overwhelming, significantly affecting both her body and mind, yet they are essential. One of the most significant and natural transitions she undergoes is menopause.
Sweta means white, and Pradara means discharge. Leucorrhoea refers to an excessive vaginal discharge that can be white, thick or thin, sometimes yellowish, and may have a foul odor, often occurring before menstruation. Common associated symptoms include weakness, back and calf pain, loss of vital fluids, and itching (pruritis). Leucorrhoea is classified into two types: physiological and inflammatory.
In Ayurvedic physiology, the Arava, which includes the reproductive system, menstrual blood, and ovum, is believed to be formed from the Rasa Dhatu—the first tissue produced after digestion and metabolism. When dietary habits are imbalanced, such as consuming heavy, fried, oily, or excessively dry foods, or combining incompatible foods like fruits with milk, overeating, and overindulgence in junk food or diets dominated by non-vegetarian or dairy products, the body’s metabolism is disrupted. This leads to inflammation and the accumulation of endotoxins in the Rasa Dhatu, which subsequently affects the Arava.
Uterine fibroids are solid, muscular growths that develop within the uterine wall. Ranging in size from as small as a pea to as large as a melon, they are made up of smooth muscle cells and fibrous connective tissue. While fibroids can occur at any stage of a woman’s life, they are most commonly found during the reproductive years, particularly in women in their 30s and 40s.
In Ayurveda, PCOD (Polycystic Ovary Disorder) is believed to arise from an imbalance in one of two doshas—Pitta (Fire) or Kapha (Water). When Pitta becomes aggravated, it disrupts the body’s tissues (dhatus) like blood and plasma, leading to the accumulation of toxins, or ama.
In individuals with PCOS, these toxins tend to accumulate in the channels associated with the mind, which in turn disrupts the hormonal balance regulated by the pituitary gland. This hormonal imbalance leads to irregularities such as the formation of ovarian cysts—fluid-filled sacs within the ovaries—and anovulatory cycles, where ovulation does not occur.
In Ayurveda, hormones are referred to as Dhatu Agni and are considered a manifestation of Pitta Dosha, as they are transported by the blood, or Rakta Pitta.
Panchakarma therapy is known to cleanse the body, restoring balance and promoting overall health. It facilitates rejuvenation and revitalization of the body. Yoni Vyapad (gynecological disorders) are primarily caused by the vitiation of Vata Dosha. Even in conditions associated with Pitta and Kapha imbalances, the derangement of Vata plays a significant role in the underlying disturbance.