Yoga for PCOS? Here are some asanas that can help alleviate symptoms

Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome or PCOS is a common disorder that affects one in every ten women according to a research done in AIIMS. Even though the exact cause of PCOS has not been discovered, physicians attribute the syndrome to stress and the modern sedentary lifestyle. PCOS symptoms usually include irregular or missed periods, weight gain, frequent mood swings, frequent hair loss, etc.  

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Yoga Asanas for PCOS

According to Dr. Sejal Shah (a Sri Sri Yoga expert), there are some yoga asanas that have proved to be beneficial for PCOS. These include:

1. Butterfly Pose
2. Supta Badhakonasana
3. Bharadvajasana
4. Chakki Chalanasana
5. Padma Sadhana

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How Yoga Asanas help in PCOS

• Yoga asanas basically help by relaxing the pelvic area.
• During the Butterfly Pose - Try holding the pose for longer intervals, don't just flap your legs rapidly. This asana helps in improving flexibility in the groin and the hip region and causes relief from menstrual discomfort and menopause symptoms as well. If you practise this asana for long, then it is seen to aid in smooth delivery if practised until late pregnancy.
• Supta Badhakonasana (Reclining Butterfly Pose) - This pose works just like the Butterfly pose but is more relaxing as it is done in a sleeping posture. 
• Bharadvajasana (Bharadvaja’s Twist) - It is a seated spinal twist that is known to improve the symptoms of PCOS.
• Chakki Chalanasana (Mill Churning Pose)- This pose helps in sciatica pain, tones up the back, abs and arm muscles, opens up the chest and groin, tones the uterine muscles and relieves painful periods.

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Disclaimer: Yoga helps develop and relax the body and mind and is not a substitute for medicine. The asanas should be carried out under the guidance of a professional yoga instructor. Do not practice postures that apply extreme pressure on the abdomen for example in Bow Pose, Superman Pose, Cobra Pose and Boat Pose.