Comparative Outcomes of Ayurvedic and Allopathic Management of Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome: A Prospective Study from a Community Hospital in India

Abstract
Background: Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder
affecting women of reproductive age. It is linked to infertility, metabolic issues, and mental
health challenges. As its prevalence rises in India, there is a need to find cost-effective and
culturally suitable management options.
Objectives: To compare how well Ayurvedic and Allopathic treatments work in improving
menstrual regularity, hormone levels, metabolic health, and pregnancy outcomes for women
with PCOS.
Methods: The study was a prospective, randomized, comparative, clinical study that took
place between January and June 2024 at VISTAS, Chennai. One hundred and eight women
who had PCOS (diagnosed by the Rotterdam criteria 2003) were then randomized into
Ayurveda (n = 54, Ashokarishtam + Phalasarpis + lifestyle counseling) or Allopathy (n = 54,
metformin + clomiphene citrate + standard lifestyle advice) groups. Menstrual regularity and
ovulation were the main results. The secondary outcomes were hormonal and metabolic
profiles, clinical pregnancy rate, ovarian morphology and adverse events. The Chi-square
test, t-test/Mann-Whitney U test and repeated measures ANOVA were used to identify the
significance of data with p < 0.05.
Results: Menstrual regularity improved in 70% of women in the Ayurveda group, compared
to 55% in the Allopathy group (p = 0.04). Pregnancy occurred in 30% of the Ayurveda group,
versus 20% in the Allopathy group. Significant improvements were noted in LH (↓35% vs
20%), testosterone (↓28% vs 15%), and fasting glucose normalization (40% vs 25%) for
Ayurveda compared to Allopathy. The Ayurveda group experienced fewer side effects (10%)
than the Allopathy group (30%), mainly gastrointestinal issues.
Conclusion: Ayurvedic treatment showed better improvements in menstrual regularity,
hormone balance, and pregnancy outcomes, with fewer side effects compared to standard
Allopathic treatment. Including culturally acceptable and accessible methods in community
health programs could improve PCOS management in India.