Evaluation of Ayurvedic Interventions in the Management of Gynecological Disorders: A Review

Abstract

Gynecological disorders, including menstrual disorders, infertility, menopausal symptoms, pelvic organ prolapse and pelvic inflammatory disease, remain among the most common health concerns affecting women globally, with significant physical, psychological, and social impacts. Although the availability of conventional therapies, many women seek complementary and alternative systems such as Ayurveda due to concerns regarding side effects and the long-term management. This retrospective descriptive cross-sectional study aimed to evaluate and analyze the inpatient records and clinical treatment protocols of patients admitted to the Gynecology and Obstetrics Unit (GOU) at the Bandaranaike Memorial Ayurveda Research Institute, Navinna, Sri Lanka, from January to September 2024. Secondary data were obtained from inpatient archives, and all eligible records within the study period were included. All patients were administered Agni Deepana and Pachana drugs before initiation of the main treatment protocols. Therapeutic procedures including Sneha, Sweda, Virechana, Nasya, Basti, and Raktamokshana were prescribed based on individual body constitution and disease severity. Twelve Intra Uterine Uttara Basti (IUUB) procedure were carried out during the study period, while Yoni Poorana, Sheka, Lepa, and Pichu were used for conditions such as Yoni Bramsa and Swethapradara. The total estimated expenditure for these comprehensive treatment protocols over the nine-month period was LKR 1,209,600, highlighting the cost-effectiveness and minimal invasiveness of Ayurvedic interventions. The findings suggest that Ayurveda offers a sustainable, affordable, and holistic approach to managing gynecological conditions, addressing root causes while aligning with patient preferences for non-invasive care, and underscore its growing relevance in contemporary gynecological practice.