Type “Ayurvedic gynecologist Kathmandu” into Google and you’ll get a long list of names. Nearly every clinic on it says it treats PCOS, irregular periods and infertility, which doesn’t help much when you’re trying to work out who is actually good.
It mostly comes down to three questions. How was the doctor trained? Have they treated problems like yours before? And do they listen to you properly before giving you any medicine? Below is what to check before you book, what to ask when you get there, and what should make you think twice.
Check the degree first
This takes two minutes and tells you a lot.
BAMS is the basic degree needed to practice Ayurveda. For women’s health, look for a postgraduate degree on top of it, either an MS or an MD in Prasuti Tantra and Stri Roga. That’s the Ayurvedic branch for gynecology and obstetrics, and its training covers fertility, menstrual disorders and pregnancy care in real depth. A doctor with only the general degree can still be a good one, but they haven’t specialized in what you’re coming for.
Remember to ask them to give you the Nepal Ayurveda Medical Council number as well. A real doctor will provide this information without hesitation. If not, then your question is answered.
Experience helps, but only the relevant kind
It is not necessary to understand the experience of the doctor of ten years in practice as his or her experience with female patients having PCOS or infertility for ten years. That is why it seems quite natural to ask what part of work of the doctor involves women’s healthcare.
One should pay special attention to the communication style of the doctor. The good specialist will be able to explain the situation clearly, give an idea of how he or she is going to handle the problem and what results can be expected from that.
What a first visit should feel like
It has to be more of a conversation rather than having that “sales talk” vibe.
The best way for the doctor to treat you effectively is to get some background information on your menstrual cycles, pregnancy history, past treatments, sleeping patterns, stress levels, and diet/nutrition.
The questions about digestion might sound odd, but according to Ayurveda, digestive system and hormonal system have a close connection. Thus, there is no need to be surprised.
It is also essential to analyze all your test results like ultrasound examination, hormone test and inform you on everything necessary including additional procedures if needed. In case you are planning to conceive, the semen analysis of your partner must also be done.
After visiting your physician, you must get an idea about the possible cause of the disease, treatment methods and duration of the course. Also, you must receive diet and lifestyle recommendations, not just medication. And, of course, your doctor must be sincere and say whether you should see another specialist.
In case some special procedure like Uttar Basti or Panchakarma therapy is needed, your doctor must tell you about its benefits, number of procedures and possible risks.
Questions worth asking
Don’t feel shy about any of these. Screenshot the list if it helps.
- What is your postgraduate degree, and where did you study?
- What do you think is causing my problem?
- How long will treatment take, and how will we know it’s working?
- Do I need tests first? Should my partner be tested too?
- What are the side effects or risks?
- Is the procedure done in a clean, sterile room, with single-use instruments?
- What will the whole thing cost, counting the consultation, the medicines and every session?
- When would you send me to another specialist?
A confident doctor won’t mind being asked any of them.
Warning signs
Be wary of a clinic if you notice any of the following.
- Someone promises pregnancy or a “permanent cure.” No honest doctor can promise that.
- Treatment begins before anyone has looked at your history or your reports.
- You’re pushed to pay for an expensive package on the spot.
- You ask about qualifications or registration and get a vague reply.
- You’re told to stop your current medicines or skip your scans.
- The place looks dirty, or equipment that should be sterile gets reused.
- You’re handed medicines and nobody will say what’s in them.
Wherever you end up, see a doctor right away if you have severe pain, heavy bleeding, fever or foul-smelling discharge after any gynecological procedure.
Where to meet Dr. Bihani Sanjyal
Dr. Bihani Sanjyal did her BAMS at Ayurveda Campus, Tribhuvan University, finishing in 2018. She then completed an MS in Ayurveda Gynecology and Obstetrics at the National Institute of Ayurveda in India in 2023. With more than seven years of clinical experience behind her, she focuses on fertility, PCOS, menstrual health, Panchakarma and Uttar Basti.
You can see her at four places in and around the Valley:
| Clinic | Location | Availability |
|---|---|---|
| Safal Hospital | Gwarko, Lalitpur | All 7 days. OPD 1:00 PM to 4:00 PM; Saturday 8:00 AM to 11:00 AM; mornings by prior appointment |
| Hamro Ayurveda Clinic | Talchikhel, Lalitpur | On call |
| Sarangdhar Ayurveda Clinic | Pepsicola, Kathmandu | On call |
| Ayurveda and Alternative Hospital | Banepa, Kavre | 15th and 30th of every month |
To book at Safal Hospital, call 01-5203347 or 9717296828. Timings do change now and then, so confirm before you leave home.
Frequently asked questions
What does an Ayurvedic gynecologist treat?
Reproductive issues of women. It involves problems such as those involving PCOS/PCOD, painful and irregular periods, white discharge, infertility, etc. This also includes problems regarding pre-pregnancy, post-pregnancy, and perimenopause.
Is Ayurvedic treatment safe for fertility problems?
It can be, provided a competent doctor prescribes it following an appropriate evaluation. Just show them your reports and inform them of all medications that you are currently taking. Also, keep away from those who guarantee results.
How is an Ayurvedic gynecologist different from a regular Ayurvedic doctor?
The gynecologist has postgraduate knowledge about Prasuti Tantra and Stri Roga, which are the fields in Ayurveda concerning women’s diseases and reproduction. The general practitioner may not be having such knowledge.
Do I need tests before starting treatment?
Yes, you do. A good physician will review your test reports and recommend an ultrasound, hormonal tests, or other tests to determine what your problem is before starting any treatment.
How long does treatment take?
It depends on the problem. Menstrual cycle issues often need a few months of care, while fertility treatment can take longer. After the first assessment, your doctor should give you a realistic timeline.
Can I take Ayurvedic and modern treatment together?
Many women do. The only condition is that both doctors know everything you’re taking, so they can advise you safely.
Before you decide
Selecting the right doctor for yourself requires some research and effort, which is totally worth it. Look at the degree of the doctor, ask all the questions that come to mind, and observe how he or she answers back. A good doctor will have a degree in women’s healthcare, answer all of your questions, and be very clear regarding the treatments.
In case you are suffering from PCOS, irregular periods, or inability to conceive and need a diagnosis, you may schedule an appointment with Dr. Bihani Sanjyal. You may contact her through phone no. 9717296828 or on WhatsApp.
This article is for general information only and doesn’t replace medical advice. Please speak to a qualified doctor about your own health.