INTEGRATIVE AYURVEDIC APPROACH IN THE MANAGEMENT OF ADENOMYOSIS: A CASE STUDY

Background: Adenomyosis presents a significant challenge in gynaecology, frequently coexisting with fibroids, which complicates diagnosis due to overlapping symptoms such as abnormal uterine bleeding, dysmenorrhea, and infertility. Conventional treatments like endometrial ablation and uterine artery ligation carry risks. In contrast, Ayurveda offers a holistic approach, focusing on the balance of doshas (regulatory functional factors of the body) and dhatus (major structural components of the body) to address the underlying causes of the condition. Methods: The patient, diagnosed with adenomyosis via USG abdomen and pelvis, presented with symptoms of scanty menstruation over the past three months and weight gain. Ayurveda diagnosis revealed sanga (obstruction) of doshas, predominantly Vata-Kapha, with Vata-vaigunya (imbalance) and mamsa-rakta dushti (disruption of blood and muscular tissues). Based on this diagnosis, anulomana (mild purgative action/regularizing physiological movement), Vata-shamana (suppression of Vata dosha), lekhana (therapeutic scrapping), and rakta-prasadaka (quality enhancing of blood tissues) was adopted to address these imbalances. Results: The Ayurveda treatment resulted in a reduction in symptoms, including improved menstrual flow and pain relief. The therapies helped restore the balance of doshas, resulting in better menstrual regulation and enhanced quality of life for the patient. Conclusion: Targeted and specified management of adenomyosis through Ayurveda while focusing on balancing affected doshas and dhatus, presents a promising alternative to conventional treatments. Protocol results in patient’s symptoms were alleviated, suggesting the potential of Ayurveda in improving quality of life in adenomyosis cases.