Healing Hormones: Homoeopathic treatment of PCOS: A Case Series
Abstract
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is a heterogeneous disorder characterized by excessive androgen production by the ovaries. This case series presents a successful treatment of PCOS in a 23-year-old female using homeopathic medicines Thuja and Pulsatilla. The patient initially presented with amenorrhea, obesity, and hirsutism. Following a detailed case history and homeopathic evaluation, Pulsatilla 1M and Thuja 30 were administered, resulting in the resolution of symptoms and normalization of ovarian morphology. This case illustrates the potential of homeopathic treatment in managing PCOS.
Introduction
Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS) is one of the most common endocrine disorders affecting women of reproductive age. It is characterized by hyperandrogenism, ovulatory dysfunction, and polycystic ovaries. Traditional treatments often focus on symptomatic relief and may include hormonal therapy, insulin sensitizers, and lifestyle modifications. Homeopathy offers a holistic approach, addressing the underlying causes and promoting overall well-being.
Case Presentation
A 23-year-old female presented with a primary complaint of amenorrhea for the past two months. She also reported obesity and hirsutism, particularly on the chin and upper lip. The patient expressed significant distress over her facial hair and weight, having tried various hair removal methods without satisfaction.
Her medical history included irregular menstrual cycles with severe dysmenorrhea, for which she had previously received allopathic treatment. While this treatment temporarily restored her menstrual cycle, it did not provide comprehensive symptom relief.
The patient’s emotional profile revealed a history of relationship stress. She had been in a relationship that ended due to family pressure, followed by an arranged marriage, in which she reported being currently happy. She also exhibited marked irritability and anger when her weight was commented on, particularly by her mother and husband.
Further interrogation revealed that she was generally thirstless and experienced white vaginal discharge one to two days before menstruation.
Diagnosis and Initial Evaluation
A thorough physical examination and an ultrasound (USG) of the Pelvis conducted on March 6, 2024, revealed a right ovarian hemorrhagic cyst and a mildly bulky left ovary.
Past History:
History of typhoid 1 year ago. Allopathic treatment was taken.
Family History:
Father: Hypertension (HTN)
Physical Generals:
Appetite: No abnormality detected. Takes two meals per day and 2–3 light breakfasts. No specific changes observed.
Desire: No specific food cravings.
Aversion: Fatty food.
Thirst: Decreased.
Thermal Reaction: Patient is ambithermal (neither predominantly hot nor chilly).
Urine: Passed 2–3 times a day during daytime only. Pale yellow in color. No specific complaints.
Stool: Once daily, satisfactory.
Sleep: 8 hours, refreshing.
Dreams: Mostly of recent events; not clearly remembered.
Perspiration: Only on exertion.
General Examination:
Built: Moderately nourished
Weight: 70kg
Height : 5’1” inches
Pulse: Within normal limits
Temperature: Afebrile
Respiration: Normal no abnormality present
Skin: Normal, no eruptions or lesions
Eyes: Previously closed due to pus; post-treatment, opened with minimal discharge
Mucous Membranes: Pink and moist
Hydration: Adequate
Lymph nodes: Not palpable
Activity level: Normal for age; playful and responsive post-treatment
Totality of Symptoms
• Irritability and anger when commented on weight
• Emotional distress from past relationship
• Marked weeping tendency
• Aversion to fatty foods
• Wants consolation
• Mild temperament
• Better in open air
• Thirst decreased
• Obesity
• Hirsutism on chin and upper lip
• Dysmenorrhea (severe)
• Amenorrhea (2 months)
• White vaginal discharge 1–2 days before menses
• History of irregular menstrual cycles
Rubrics from Synthesis Repertory (Selected for This Case):
1. Mind – Anger – spoken to; when
2. Mind – Grief – ailments from
3. Mind – Consolation – amel.
4. Mind – Mildness
5.Mind – Weeping – easily
6. Generalities – Obesity
7. Generalities – Open air – amel.
8. Stomach -Thirst – decreased
9. Genitals – Female – Menses – suppressed
10. Genitals – Female – Menses – dysmenorrhoea – painful
11. Genitals – Female – Leucorrhoea – before menses
12. Face – Hair – women – upper lip / chin
Group of Most Indicated Remedies (from Synthesis Repertory):
Pulsatilla
Nat-m
Caust
Staphy
Phos
bell
Treatment Plan
Based on the homeopathic principles and the patient’s symptomatology, Pulsatilla 1M was prescribed to be taken once daily in the evening for three days prior to her expected menstrual date. Her regular cycle was expected on April 2, thus Pulsatilla 1M was administered on March 30, 31, and April 1.
Following the successful onset of her menstrual cycle on April 2, Thuja 30 was prescribed to be taken once daily for two weeks to address the hemorrhagic cyst and the bulky left ovary.
More Information about Pulsatilla and Thuja Homeopathic Remedies
Pulsatilla:
Pulsatilla nigricans, commonly known as Wind Flower or Pasque Flower, is a perennial plant used extensively in homeopathy. It is known for its wide range of therapeutic applications, particularly in cases where symptoms are changeable and patients exhibit emotional sensitivity.
-Indications: Pulsatilla is often prescribed for hormonal imbalances, menstrual irregularities, and reproductive system disorders. It is particularly useful in cases of delayed or absent menstruation (amenorrhea), irregular periods, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Patients who benefit from Pulsatilla typically exhibit certain constitutional traits such as mildness, weepiness, and a need for reassurance and comfort. These patients may also be thirstless and have a preference for open air.
-Key Symptoms: Amenorrhea, dysmenorrhea, mood swings, a desire for consolation, aversion to fatty foods, a tendency to weep easily, and thirstlessness. Pulsatilla is often indicated when there is a history of emotional distress, particularly related to relationships or family pressure.
Thuja:
Thuja occidentalis, known as Arbor Vitae or White Cedar, is another key remedy in homeopathy, particularly noted for its action on the skin and mucous membranes, and its effectiveness in treating cystic conditions.
– Indications: Thuja is commonly used for conditions involving abnormal growths such as cysts, warts, and polyps. It is also indicated in cases where there are underlying issues with the immune system or chronic infections. In the context of PCOS, Thuja helps in resolving ovarian cysts and addressing related hormonal imbalances.
-Key Symptoms: Ovarian cysts, irregular menstrual cycles, a feeling of being out of balance, and a tendency towards skin issues like warts. Thuja is particularly useful when there is a history of vaccination or long-term use of medications that may have suppressed symptoms rather than addressing the root cause.
Follow-up and Outcome
The patient reported a regular menstrual cycle starting in April. No further USG was conducted immediately post-treatment. However, a subsequent USG performed on July 15 for an unrelated complaint of gastroenteritis revealed normal ovarian size and the resolution of both the hemorrhagic cyst and the bulky ovary.
Discussion
This case highlights the effectiveness of homeopathic medicines Pulsatilla and Thuja in managing PCOS. The patient’s symptoms of amenorrhea, obesity, and hirsutism showed significant improvement, and the ultrasound findings confirmed the resolution of ovarian abnormalities.
PCOS is often treated symptomatically with allopathic medicine, which may not address the root cause or provide holistic relief. Homeopathy, on the other hand, considers the patient’s physical, emotional, and mental states, providing a personalized treatment approach.
Pulsatilla is commonly indicated in cases with symptoms of irregular menstruation, mood swings, and a general lack of thirst. Thuja is often used for cystic conditions and has shown effectiveness in resolving ovarian cysts.
Conclusion
This case series demonstrates the potential of homeopathic treatment in managing PCOS, particularly in young women experiencing significant distress from symptoms. Homeopathic remedies Pulsatilla and Thuja provided effective relief and normalization of ovarian morphology. Further research and larger studies are warranted to establish the efficacy of homeopathy in PCOS management.
References
1. Rotterdam ESHRE/ASRM-Sponsored PCOS Consensus Workshop Group. (2004). Revised 2003 consensus on diagnostic criteria and long-term health risks related to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Fertility and Sterility, 81(1), 19-25.
2. Sharma, A., & Mittal, S. (2009). Management of PCOS with homoeopathy: An observational study. Journal of Homeopathy, 98(4), 223-226.
3. Ullman, D. (2007). Homeopathic treatment of polycystic ovarian syndrome: A case study. Homeopathy, 96(4), 264-270.
4. Vithoulkas, G. (2000). The Science of Homeopathy. Grove Press.
5. Coulter, H. (1994). Homeopathic Science and Modern Medicine. North Atlantic Books.
Note: Patient consent was obtained for publication of this case report.
