Impact of Yoga on Hormonal Balance in Women: A Systematic Review

Abstract

Hormonal balance is essential for maintaining women's reproductive, metabolic, psychological, and overall health. Various endocrine disorders, including Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), hypothyroidism, menstrual irregularities, and menopausal symptoms, are often associated with hormonal imbalances that significantly affect quality of life. Modern lifestyle factors such as chronic stress, unhealthy dietary habits, and physical inactivity further contribute to endocrine dysfunction through disruption of neuroendocrine pathways. Yoga, a holistic mind–body practice incorporating physical postures (asanas), breathing techniques (pranayama), and meditation, has gained increasing attention as a complementary approach for hormonal regulation. This systematic review examines the physiological mechanisms through which yoga influences hormonal balance and evaluates its effectiveness in managing common hormonal disorders in women. Evidence from published studies indicates that yoga positively modulates the hypothalamic–pituitary–ovarian (HPO), hypothalamic–pituitary–thyroid (HPT), and hypothalamic–pituitary–adrenal (HPA) axes, leading to reduced cortisol levels, improved autonomic nervous system balance, enhanced insulin sensitivity, and better regulation of reproductive hormones. Yoga has demonstrated beneficial effects in women with PCOS, hypothyroidism, menstrual disorders, and menopause by improving hormonal profiles, menstrual regularity, metabolic health, emotional well-being, and quality of life. The findings suggest that regular yoga practice can serve as an effective non-pharmacological adjunct therapy for promoting hormonal balance and supporting women’s endocrine and reproductive health. Further large-scale clinical trials are recommended to establish standardized yoga protocols and strengthen the evidence base.