Phytochemicals in the Management of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome, Endometriosis, and Menstrual Irregularities

Reproductive health disorders such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), endometriosis, and menstrual irregularities significantly impact overall well-being. Current pharmacological treatments for these conditions often have limitations, including side effects, inconsistent efficacy, poor long-term adherence, and a failure to address all aspects of the disease or cure the underlying health concerns. PCOS, for example, is a multifactorial condition involving hyperandrogenism, anovulation, and other metabolic disorders such as insulin resistance and obesity, while endometriosis is an inflammatory disorder characterized by uterine tissue growing outside the uterus, often associated with estrogen dominance and impaired progesterone signaling. Phytochemicals, a large family of naturally occurring non-nutritive plant-based bioactive compounds, are assumed to be beneficial for disease prevention and management due to their various pharmacological properties, including antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, and hormone-modulating effects. They function by altering cellular signaling pathways, enzymatic activity, and scavenging free radicals . Specific phytochemicals like isoflavones (soy), flavonoids (quercetin, apigenin), phytosterols (fenugreek), and polyphenols (resveratrol, curcumin) have been studied for their potential in managing PCOS. Studies suggest these compounds can ameliorate symptoms by improving insulin resistance, modulating hormone levels (e.g., reducing testosterone and DHEAS), regulating the menstrual cycle, and decreasing cyst size.