Role of Ayurveda in management of Ovulatory Factor Infertility Associated with Hyperprolactinemia: A Case Report

Abstract

Infertility affects approximately 17.5% of the global adult population, with about 8% of currently married women in India being infertile, most are experiencing 2° infertility (5.8%). Ovulatory abnormalities account 25% of all causes of female infertility. Hyperprolactinemia (HPRL) causes infertility by suppressing the hypothalamic-pituitary-gonadal axis, which reduces ovarian estrogen release, resulting in anovulation and infertility. Infertility develops from oligo-ovulation or anovulation since no oocyte is released, thus there is no chance of fertilization. This can be understood as Artava Dushti from classical Ayurvedic perspective associated with Rasa Dhatva Agni Mandya. The treatment principles lie in regulating the Agni followed by alleviating the Kapha which obstructs the Strotas. A 40-year-old female patient present with complaint of unable to conceive since 7yrs despite regular unprotected intercourse, with additional complaints of bloating, body heaviness, and headaches during menstruation. She was diagnosed with PCOD in 2017 and underwent ovarian drilling and unsuccessful fertility treatments, including IUI and ICSI. Then she approached SJSACH OPD for further treatment where she was diagnosed with HPRL and Hypothyroidism. The patient underwent Vamana as Shodhana Chikitsa followed by Shaman Chikitsa, resulting in a significant reduction in TSH and prolactin levels, leading to normal ovulation. Hence conditions of Anovulation which are associated with endocrinal anomalies like HPRL, Hypothyroidism can be managed with proper Ayurvedic diagnosis and treatment. In the present scenario, patient was treated with an initial round of counseling followed by Shodhana and Shaman Chikitsa which is proper utilization of Satwa-Avachaya Chikitsa followed by Yukti-Vyapasharya Chikitsa.