Ayurvedic Perspective of Menstrual Disorders and Their Correlation with Modern Gynaecology: An Integrative Review

Menstrual disorders continue to be one of the most common gynaecological problems that affect women throughout their reproductive age, with significant effects on quality of life and outcomes of reproductive health. Although modern medicine explains these conditions as a result of hormonal dysfunction and dysmetabolism, Ayurveda views menstrual dysfunction as an indication of an imbalance of doshas in Artava Dhatu and in Artava Vaha Srotas. This integrative review uses the classical Ayurvedic paradigm of menstrual physiology to explore the concepts of Artava Kshaya, Raktapradar and Kashtartava and equates the Ayurvedic interpretations with the current gynaecological entities such as polycystic ovarian syndrome, dysmenorrhoea, oligomenorrhoea and amenorrhoea. Clinical trials prove that Ayurvedic interventions based on Shatavari and Ashwagandha can produce meaningful clinical results that are no less effective than more traditional methods, while addressing systemic issues. The pathophysiological theory of Apana Vayu imbalance and Kapha-Vata blockage corresponds to the current knowledge of endocrine dysregulation and dysfunction of the hypothalamic-pituitary-ovary axis. The combined approach provides evidence-based treatment prospects to women with menstrual disorders who want to avoid traditional pharmacotherapy.