International Journal of Medical and Health Research

Authors
Saba Khan, Ismath Shameem, Suhail Sahibole, Aafreen Siddiqui

Abstract
Background and objectives: Obesity represents a rapidly growing threat to the health of populations which has detrimental effect on fertility by disrupting the neuroendocrinal and ovulatory functions. The aim of the study was to evaluate the efficacy of Unani formulation in infertility among obese women. Methods: A single blind non-randomized pre and post observational study was carried out at National Institute of Unani Medicine Hospital, Bengaluru. Infertile women (n=30) in the age group of 18-40 years, with Body Mass Index 30-40 kg/m², menstrual irregularities, controlled thyroid dysfunction and spouse normal seminogram were included in the study.Patients with systemic illnesses and those on weight reduction in last 3 months were excluded. 12.5 gm of Unani formulation (Tukhme Karafs, Tukhme Anisoon, Tukhme Ajwain Desi, Tukhme Hulba, Asaroon) was administered orally twice daily in the form of decoction for two consecutive months. Primary outcome measures (weight reduction, menstrual regulation and conception) and secondary outcome measures (changes in BMI, lipid profile and fasting insulin) were assessed for improvement. Data were analyzed using paired Student ‘t’ test. Results: Weight loss (7% reduction of body weight) was achieved in 80% patients with significant reduction (P<0.001) in BMI and waist to hip ratio, Menstrual regulation was achieved in 66.7% with significant reduction (P=0.081) in duration of cycle. The conception rate was 0% during the study period, but 10% patients conceived after 2 months of completion of study. Changes in lipid profile (on fixing 5% reduction) were achieved in 40% patients clinically (P>0.05). Changes in fasting insulin were achieved in 20% patients (P=0.004). Interpretation and conclusion: Unani formulation may be used as an effective alternative in infertility among obese women with PCOD.