Menstrual disorders, such as irregular periods, painful menstruation, and heavy bleeding, affect millions of women and are often linked to hormonal imbalances, stress, and poor lifestyle habits. While medication plays a vital role, yoga therapy has emerged as a powerful complementary approach to restore hormonal balance, reduce stress, and promote reproductive health. This case study describes the healing journey of Sneha Verma, a 28-year-old working professional, who overcame her long-standing menstrual issues through a blend of yoga and medical support.
Table of Contents
Patient Background
- Name: Sneha Verma
- Age: 28
- Occupation: Software Engineer
- Medical History: Irregular periods (oligomenorrhea), painful menstruation, and premenstrual syndrome (PMS) for over 4 years
- Lifestyle: Sedentary job, frequent night shifts, high stress, junk food intake
Symptoms:
- Periods are delayed by 2–3 months regularly
- Severe cramps and mood swings during periods
- Acne and hair fall during the PMS phase
Initial Medical Diagnosis:
Sneha visited Doctor, a gynecologist, after skipping her periods for three months. The following diagnostic steps and results were recorded:
Clinical Examination & Tests:
-
Pelvic Ultrasound: Mild PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome)
-
Hormonal Profile:
-
FSH/LH Ratio: Altered (LH > FSH)
-
Testosterone: Slightly elevated
-
Prolactin: Normal
-
-
Diagnosis: PCOS-induced Oligomenorrhea and Dysmenorrhea
Medical Treatment Plan:
The doctor emphasized that PCOS is reversible with consistent lifestyle and hormonal balancing techniques.
Medications Prescribed:
- Oral Contraceptives (low dose): To regulate cycles
- Metformin (500 mg/day): To manage insulin resistance
- Vitamin D3 + Myo-inositol supplements: For hormonal balance
- Antispasmodics: For menstrual cramps when needed
Dietary Recommendations:
- Low-carb, high-fiber diet
- Avoid refined sugar, dairy, and processed foods
- Increase intake of leafy greens, flax seeds, and whole grains
- Hydration: 2–3 liters of water daily
Introduction to Yoga Therapy:
Seeking a long-term natural healing path, Sneha enrolled in the Hormonal Balance Yoga Program, guided by a certified yoga therapist. The therapy focused on balancing the endocrine system, improving pelvic circulation, and reducing stress, which is key for managing PCOS and menstrual disorders.
Yoga Practice and Techniques:
Initial Phase (Weeks 1–4):
Goal: Reduce stress, stimulate pelvic organs, initiate hormonal balance
Asanas (Yoga Postures):
- Baddha Konasana (Butterfly Pose): Improves blood flow to reproductive organs
- Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclining Butterfly): Promotes relaxation and regulates hormones
- Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose): Stimulates ovaries and thyroid
- Balasana (Child’s Pose): Eases menstrual cramps and calms the nervous system
Pranayama:
- Nadi Shodhana (Alternate Nostril Breathing): Balances hormones and reduces stress
- Ujjayi Breath: Stimulates the thyroid and calms the nervous system
Mid-Phase (Weeks 5–12):
Goal: Deepen hormonal balance, strengthen pelvic muscles, support regular ovulation
New Asanas Added:
- Ustrasana (Camel Pose): Opens the chest and stimulates the adrenal glands
- Malasana (Garland Pose): Opens hips and enhances reproductive health
- Ardha Matsyendrasana (Spinal Twist): Supports detox and improves digestion (important for hormonal balance)
Advanced Pranayama:
- Bhramari (Bee Breath): Reduces PMS symptoms and anxiety
- Agnisar Kriya: Stimulates abdominal organs and improves hormonal metabolism
Lifestyle Changes Integrated:
- Regular meal times aligned with circadian rhythm
- 8 hours of sleep with no screen time 1 hour before bed
- Weekly journaling and mindfulness meditation
- Use of natural herbs like Ashoka, Shatavari (with doctor’s approval)
Progress and Monitoring
After 3 Months:
- Menstrual Cycle: Periods started arriving every 35–40 days without medication
- Cramps: Reduced in severity; no need for antispasmodics
- Mood Swings & PMS: Significantly reduced
- Weight: Lost 4 kg (helped reduce insulin resistance)
- Acne and Hair Fall: Started reducing with improved hormonal profile
After 6 Months:
- Cycle Regularity: Consistent 28–32 day cycle
- Medication: Discontinued oral contraceptives under doctor’s supervision
- Ultrasound: Ovarian cysts reduced in size and number
- Hormonal Profile: LH/FSH ratio normalized
- Energy & Emotional Health: Improved concentration, mood stability, and better digestion
Conclusion:
Sneha’s complete turnaround from irregular, painful menstruation to a regular, healthy cycle underscores the potential of integrative treatment. With the continued practice of yoga and mindful living, she now experiences balanced hormones and overall well-being.
