The Hidden Link Between PCOS and Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS): An Ayurvedic Perspective
Table of Contents
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) and Hidradenitis Suppurativa (HS) are two seemingly distinct conditions — one hormonal, the other dermatological. But a closer look reveals a significant overlap, especially in women. Research and clinical observations show that women suffering from PCOS are at a higher risk of developing HS, and those with HS often have underlying hormonal imbalances characteristic of PCOS.
From an Ayurvedic perspective, this co-occurrence points to deep-rooted imbalances in Kapha, Meda Dhatu, Shukra Dhatu, and the neuro-endocrine axis, often fueled by Ama (toxins) and Vata derangement.
Hidden Link Between PCOS and Hidradenitis Suppurativa
🔗 Understanding the PCOS–HS Connection
1. Androgen Excess: A Shared Root
Both HS and PCOS are strongly associated with elevated androgen levels:
- Androgens increase sebaceous gland activity and keratinization, leading to blocked hair follicles — a key trigger for HS.
- In PCOS, excess androgens lead to acne, hirsutism, and anovulation, while in HS they contribute to recurrent abscesses and nodules, especially in friction-prone areas like the groin, underarms, and buttocks.
2. Insulin Resistance and Inflammation
- PCOS is marked by insulin resistance, which not only worsens androgen excess but also promotes systemic inflammation.
- HS is now recognized as a chronic inflammatory disease, and insulin resistance significantly increases its severity.
3. Obesity and Adipose-Derived Cytokines
- Many women with PCOS struggle with central obesity, which contributes to HS by:
- Creating moist, warm skin folds prone to occlusion.
- Releasing pro-inflammatory cytokines from fat tissue.
- Exacerbating Kapha-Meda Dushti in Ayurveda.
4. Menstrual Irregularities and Flare Patterns
- HS flares often correlate with menstrual cycles, just like PCOS symptoms.
- Pre-menstrual flares of HS indicate a hormone-sensitive inflammatory response, deeply tied to Apana Vayu imbalance and disturbed Shukra Dhatu.
🩺 Clinical Signs That Point to Overlap
Women may be unaware that their skin and reproductive issues are connected. Watch for these patterns:
| Symptom | Related to |
|---|---|
| Recurrent painful boils in armpits, groin, under breast | HS |
| Irregular periods, delayed ovulation | PCOS |
| Acne, oily skin, facial/body hair growth | Both |
| Weight gain, especially in the lower abdomen | Both |
| Mood swings, PMS, fatigue | PCOS → triggers HS |
| Scarring, tunnel formation, abscess drainage | HS |
🌿 Ayurvedic View on PCOS-HS Coexistence
In Ayurveda, both conditions stem from Kapha-Meda aggravation, Vata derangement, and Pitta imbalance in Rakta and Shukra Dhatus. The overlapping pathology includes:
- Ama accumulation in Meda and Rakta Dhatus → chronic inflammation and hormonal disruption
- Blocked srotas (microchannels) → follicular occlusion, cysts, abscesses
- Dhatwagnimandya (weakened tissue metabolism) → impaired tissue differentiation and abnormal glandular secretions
- Rasa and Shukra Dushti → menstrual irregularity, ovulatory issues
- Apana Vayu disturbance → affects both skin eruptions and reproductive function
🧪 Why Conventional Treatment Falls Short
Modern medicine often treats HS and PCOS separately, with:
- Hormonal pills, insulin sensitizers, or anti-androgens for PCOS
- Antibiotics, steroids, or surgical drainage for HS
But without treating the underlying root cause, women suffer recurrent symptoms, emotional distress, and side effects from prolonged medication use.
🌿 The EliteAyurveda Approach: Treating Both Conditions at the Root
1. Comprehensive Detox (Shodhana Chikitsa)
- Virechana (purgation) to balance Pitta and regulate hormones
- Basti (medicated enemas) for balancing Vata and Apana Vayu
- Detoxification also clears Ama from Meda and Rakta Dhatus
2. Hormonal Rebalancing
- Customized internal formulations to:
- Normalize insulin and androgen levels
- Restore ovulation and regular cycles
- Reduce acne, hirsutism, and weight gain
- Improve tone and health of Shukra Dhatu and Artavavaha Srotas (reproductive channels)
3. Inflammation Control and Skin Healing
- Personalized herbs and therapies that:
- Heal sinus tracts, abscesses, and reduce scarring
- Calm Rakta-Pitta imbalances
- Improve lymphatic drainage and immunity
4. Regeneration and Rasayana
- Strengthen Ojas, balance stress responses
- Rejuvenate endocrine glands and skin health
🌿 Personalized Herbal Formulations for PCOS-HS Overlap
At EliteAyurveda, we design formulations that:
- Work on deep hormonal restoration
- Clear Ama from Meda and Rakta
- Prevent new HS lesions and support skin repair
- Regulate menstrual cycles naturally
- Reduce cravings, fatigue, and mood swings
These formulations are fully customized based on:
- Dosha profile
- HS severity and lesion type
- PCOS subtype (insulin-resistant, lean, adrenal, etc.)
- Cycle history and lifestyle patterns
🧘 Lifestyle & Diet Guidance
Diet Tips:
- Avoid dairy, sugar, red meat, refined carbs
- Favor warm, cooked, seasonal vegetables and bitter herbs
- Use ghee and detox teas mindfully
Lifestyle Tips:
- Daily Abhyanga (self-massage) to improve lymph and hormonal flow
- Regular movement – yoga, walking, swimming
- Sleep hygiene and stress-reducing rituals (pranayama, journaling)
- Avoid late nights, irregular meals, and emotional suppression
💬 A Note to Women Struggling with HS and PCOS
You are not alone — and your symptoms are not unrelated. Ayurveda sees your body as a whole, where the skin, hormones, gut, and mind are deeply connected.
With root-cause Ayurvedic care, it is possible to:
- Break the cycle of recurrent HS flares
- Regain menstrual health and hormonal balance
- Heal without steroids or surgeries
📞 Start Your Healing Journey Today
At EliteAyurveda, Dr. Adil Moulanchikkal and his expert team guide women through personalized, root-cause based healing from PCOS and HS.
🔹 Website: www.eliteayurveda.com
🔹 Phone: +91 88847 22246
🔹 Consult Online or In-Clinic
Healing is not about masking — it’s about restoring balance from within.
