Yoga for Women

Why Indian Women Are at Higher Risk of PCOD and What to Do About It

Why PCOD Affects 1 in 5 Indian Women—And How to Heal Naturally

Why Indian Women Are at Higher Risk of PCOD and What to Do About It

Have you noticed a growing number of women around you struggling with irregular periods, weight gain, mood swings, or fertility issues? You're not imagining it. India is facing a silent health epidemic: PCOD (Polycystic Ovarian Disease) is now affecting nearly 1 in 5 Indian women of reproductive age. And yet, many suffer in silence, undiagnosed, or misunderstood.

I'm Radhika Bargava, a yoga instructor, nutrition coach, and a passionate advocate for women's wellness. Through my work at Trimuk Yoga, I've witnessed the silent toll PCOD takes—not just physically, but emotionally. In this blog, we’ll explore why Indian women are particularly vulnerable to PCOD and how yoga, diet, and small shifts in lifestyle can transform your hormonal health.

Understanding PCOD: Why It Matters

PCOD is a hormonal condition where ovaries produce immature or partially mature eggs that often turn into cysts. It's linked to:

* Irregular periods
* Excess facial hair
* Acne and weight gain
* Mood disturbances
* Fertility issues

While genetics plays a role, our modern lifestyle—especially in urban India—is accelerating the prevalence of PCOD. The body is out of rhythm, and it shows.

Why Indian Women Are at Greater Risk

Let’s dive into the root causes specific to Indian women:

#### 1. Refined, Carb-Heavy Diets

Our food culture has evolved. We’ve shifted from seasonal, home-cooked meals to:

* White rice and maida-based breads
* Deep-fried snacks (samosas, pakoras)
* Excess sugar (mithai, sugary chai)

This disrupts insulin sensitivity, a key trigger for PCOD.

#### 2. Sedentary Lifestyles

With long hours at desks, commuting, and screen time, movement has taken a backseat. Fewer women are engaging in traditional activities like walking, yoga, or dancing.

#### 3. High Stress & Cultural Pressure

The stress of balancing work, family, and societal expectations weighs heavily. Add to this the pressure to look a certain way, marry by a certain age, or conceive quickly—and emotional well-being suffers.

#### 4. Exposure to Hormonal Disruptors

Indian beauty and hygiene markets are flooded with products that contain:

* Parabens
* Sulfates
* Synthetic fragrances These interfere with endocrine function.

#### 5. Pollution and Environmental Toxins

Air, food, and water pollution increase oxidative stress and hormonal imbalance.

What You Can Do: A Holistic Healing Plan

Healing from PCOD is possible. It doesn’t happen overnight, but with intention and consistency, change is real.

#### 1. Rebalance Your Diet

* Choose whole grains (millets, brown rice, quinoa)
* Add healthy fats (ghee, coconut, seeds)
* Limit sugar, dairy, and fried foods
* Use hormone-balancing herbs like turmeric, cinnamon, and fenugreek

#### 2. Practice Daily Yoga for Hormonal Harmony

Yoga isn't just movement. It's medicine.

* Asanas: Butterfly, Cobra, Bow, Supine Twist, Bridge Pose
* Pranayama: Nadi Shodhana, Bhramari
* Meditation: 5–10 mins of mindfulness daily

Radhika's Tip: “You don’t need to do complex poses. Even 20 minutes of consistent practice can regulate your cycle and calm emotional turbulence.”

#### 3. Manage Emotional Stress Mindfully

* Journal your thoughts
* Try guided meditations or chanting (OM, So Hum)
* Set boundaries around screen time and emotional labor

#### 4. Detox Your Surroundings

* Switch to natural skincare and household products
* Drink from copper vessels
* Reduce plastic usage and packaged foods

Real Stories of Transformation

At Trimuk Yoga, I’ve seen women from all walks of life heal their relationship with their bodies:

* A 26-year-old architect from Delhi who reversed acne and irregular cycles within 6 months of consistent yoga + dietary shifts
* A homemaker in Jaipur who regained confidence and reduced facial hair growth through mindful breathwork

These aren’t miracles. They’re the result of returning to balance.

PCOD doesn’t define you. It’s a signal—an invitation to realign with your body’s wisdom. Indian women may face unique challenges, but they also carry the legacy of deep inner strength and ancient wellness practices.

“You don’t need to be perfect to heal. You just need to start.” — Radhika Bargava

Ready to Begin Your Healing Journey?

Join my holistic PCOD-supportive yoga program, designed especially for Indian women. Experience the magic of movement, breath, and nourishing traditions.

🌸 Book your discovery call today at Trimuk Yoga. Spaces fill fast—don’t miss your chance to begin.

Common Questions Women Ask Me

1. Is PCOD curable?

It’s manageable and reversible through lifestyle changes.

2. I’m thin. Can I still have PCOD?

Absolutely. PCOD isn’t always about weight. It’s about hormonal imbalance.

3. Can yoga help me conceive?

Yes. By balancing hormones and reducing stress, yoga supports fertility.

4. Do I need to stop eating Indian food?

No. Just modify it. Use traditional ingredients mindfully.

5. Is medication always necessary?

Sometimes yes—but yoga and nutrition can often reduce the need.

About the author

A renowned and qualified yoga instructor with years of experience in teaching traditional Hatha Flow and Ashtanga Vinyasa Yoga, Radhika is passionate about sharing the true essence of yoga with her students. Being a certified yoga teacher and health & nutrition coach, Radhika demonstrates a deep understanding of mind-body connection which is reflected in her tailored classes.

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