Ayurvedic Perspective of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Ayurvedic Perspective of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
AYUSHDHARA is an international peer-reviewed journal. It focuses on research in Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, Homeopathy, Allopathy, and Pharmaceutical Sciences.
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL) is defined as the occurrence of two or more failed pregnancies, typically before reaching 20 weeks of gestation. It poses significant challenges in both medical and emotional realms for affected couples, as the etiology remains unidentified in many cases. Factors contributing to RPL can be diverse, including genetic, endocrine, anatomic, environmental, and immunological causes. While thorough investigations are essential, these often do not yield a clear diagnosis, highlighting the need for holistic management approaches.
Ayurvedic Perspective on RPL
In Ayurveda, Recurrent Pregnancy Loss is linked to conditions like Garbhasravi vandhya and Puthraghni yonivyapath mentioned in classical texts. Garbhasravi vandhya, found in the Hareetha Samhita, identifies recurrent miscarriages as a significant clinical feature, whereas Puthraghni yonivyapath, as described by Acarya Caraka and Susruta, correlates with repeated loss after the pregnancy has stabilized. Ayurvedic literature suggests that excessive consumption of dry and spicy foods, along with lifestyle factors such as inadequate sleep and mental stress, can aggravate doshas (bodily humors), thereby causing pregnancy loss. These interpretations offer a unique perspective on managing RPL and emphasize the need for dietary and lifestyle modifications.
Therapeutic Approaches in Ayurveda
The management of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss in Ayurveda involves a comprehensive approach. Sodhana therapy, or purificatory treatments, is deemed essential to cleanse the body and restore balance among the doshas. Following this, Uttaravasti (local treatment procedures) is recommended, utilizing herbal formulations that can nourish the reproductive system. This practice aims to enhance blood circulation and improve the quality of reproductive tissues. Additionally, therapies addressing the removal of toxins from the body and restoring hormonal balance are integral to the treatment protocol. The Ayurvedic approach is holistic, focusing on the individual’s constitution (Prakrithi) and the specific imbalances present.
Conclusion
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss is a significant reproductive health issue affecting a notable percentage of couples pursuing conception. Ayurvedic perspectives provide valuable insights into the potential causes and therapeutic interventions for RPL. By correlating traditional concepts such as Garbhasravi vandhya and Puthraghni yonivyapath with modern understandings, Ayurveda offers promising management strategies that can improve pregnancy outcomes. The incorporation of individualized treatments tailored to the patient's condition and underlying dosha imbalances can yield beneficial results in managing recurrent pregnancy loss.
Original source:
This page is merely a summary which is automatically generated hence you should visit the source to read the original article which includes the author, publication date, notes and references.
Rajini P
Senior Research Fellow, Regional Ayurveda Research Institute, Poojappura, Trivandrum, Kerala, India.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Ayurvedic Perspective of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss
Year: 2022 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v9i3.986
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
Download the PDF file of the original publication
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL) defined as?
Recurrent Pregnancy Loss (RPL) is defined as two or more failed clinical pregnancies confirmed by sonography or histopathology, occurring in approximately 15%-25% of pregnancies, often with unclear causes.
What are the Ayurvedic correlates of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss?
In Ayurveda, RPL can be correlated with 'Garbhasravi vandhya' and 'Puthraghni yonivyapath,' related to repeated pregnancy losses, emphasizing factors like vitiated Dosha and lifestyle choices.
What treatments does Ayurveda suggest for Recurrent Pregnancy Loss?
Ayurveda recommends 'Shodhana' therapy to purify the body, followed by 'Uthara vasti' treatments. These aim to restore balance and improve the quality of sperm and ovum.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ayurvedic Perspective of Recurrent Pregnancy Loss”. This list explains important keywords that occur in this article and links it to the glossary for a better understanding of that concept in the context of Ayurveda and other topics.
1) Vandhya (Vamdhya):
In Ayurveda, 'Vandhya' refers to infertility. 'Vandhyatva' or infertility is a condition where a couple is unable to conceive. According to Ayurvedic texts, different types of 'Vandhya' are mentioned, such as 'Garbhasravi Vandhya,' which indicates recurrent pregnancy loss.
2) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient system of medicine originating in India. The text discusses Ayurvedic approaches to treating recurrent pregnancy loss, including the importance of therapies such as 'Sodhana' and 'Uttaravasti'. These treatments aim to balance the Doshas and purify the body.
3) Shodhana (Sodhana):
'Shodhana' or purificatory therapies are crucial in Ayurveda for removing toxins and balancing Doshas. In recurrent pregnancy loss cases, 'Shodhana chikitsa' is recommended to purify the body and improve the quality of reproductive tissues.
4) Acarya:
An 'Acarya' is a respected teacher or scholar in Ayurveda. The article mentions several 'Acaryas' such as 'Acarya Caraka,' 'Acarya Susruta,' and 'Acarya Vagbhata,' who have explained various perspectives on recurrent pregnancy loss in their classical texts.
5) Dosha (Dosa):
[see source text or glossary: Dosa]
6) Caraka:
'Caraka' refers to 'Acarya Caraka,' a renowned ancient Ayurvedic scholar who authored the 'Caraka Samhita.' The text refers to his explanations regarding conditions like 'Puthraghni yonivyapath,' which correlate with recurrent pregnancy loss.
7) Artava:
In Ayurveda, 'Artava' refers to menstrual blood or the ovum in females. The text mentions that 'Artava dushti' (vitiation of menstrual blood) can lead to adverse reproductive outcomes, including recurrent pregnancy loss.
8) Prakopa:
'Prakopa' in Ayurveda signifies the aggravation or provocation of a Dosha. The text discusses how 'Vata prakopa' and 'Pitta prakopa' contribute to conditions like recurrent pregnancy loss by causing disturbances in the body's balance.
9) Pitta:
'Pitta' is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, associated with fire and water elements. The text explains how 'Pitta prakopa' (aggravation of Pitta) can lead to 'Rakta dushti' (vitiation of blood), contributing to recurrent pregnancy loss.
10) Visha (Visa):
'Visha' refers to toxins. The text mentions 'Vishahara chikitsa,' which involves treatments that eliminate toxins from the body. This is crucial in managing recurrent pregnancy loss and improving reproductive health.
11) Vandhyatva:
'Vandhyatva' is the Ayurvedic term for infertility. The text discusses conditions like 'Garbhasravi Vandhya' and 'Puthraghni yonivyapath,' which are types of 'Vandhyatva' characterized by recurrent pregnancy loss.
12) Vagbhata:
'Acarya Vagbhata' is an esteemed Ayurvedic scholar who authored the 'Ashtanga Hridayam.' The text refers to his explanations, distinguishing between 'Jataghni Yonivyapath' and other forms of recurrent pregnancy loss.
13) Ruksha (Ruksa):
'Ruksha' refers to dry properties. In the context of recurrent pregnancy loss, the text mentions how consuming 'Ruksha ahara' (dry foods) and leading a life with excessive dryness can aggravate Vata and lead to adverse reproductive outcomes.
14) Samana (Shamana):
'Samana' refers to palliative treatments in Ayurveda. After 'Sodhana chikitsa' (purificatory therapies), 'Samana chikitsa' is often recommended to manage the Dosha imbalances and support a healthy pregnancy.
15) Nidana:
'Nidana' in Ayurveda refers to the causative factors of a disease. The text discusses various 'Nidanas' like 'Ruksha katu amla lavana aharas,' 'Akala nidra,' and 'Soka,' which contribute to recurrent pregnancy loss.
16) Rakta:
'Rakta' is the Ayurvedic term for blood. The text explains how 'Rakta dushti' (vitiation of blood) can lead to conditions like recurrent pregnancy loss by affecting the placentation and nourishment of the fetus.
17) Ahara:
'Ahara' in Ayurveda refers to diet or food. The text discusses the impact of 'Ruksha ahara' (dry foods) on aggravating Vata and contributing to conditions like recurrent pregnancy loss.
18) Birth:
[see source text or glossary: Birth]
19) Vayu:
'Vayu' is the element associated with the Vata Dosha in Ayurveda. The text describes how the aggravation of Vata, or 'Vata prakopa,' can lead to recurrent pregnancy loss by causing disturbances in the body.
20) Garbhashaya (Garbhasaya, Garbha-ashaya):
'Garbhasaya' refers to the uterus. The text mentions the importance of 'Garbhasaya sodhana' (purification of the uterus) in the treatment of recurrent pregnancy loss to restore normal reproductive functioning.
21) Visahara (Vishahara, Visha-hara):
'Vishahara' refers to anti-toxic treatments. The text discusses using 'Vishahara chikitsa' like 'Vilwadi' or 'Dooshivishari yogam' to remove toxins, which is essential in treating recurrent pregnancy loss.
22) Rajini:
[see source text or glossary: Rajini]
23) Shukra (Sukra):
'Sukra' refers to sperm in Ayurveda. The text highlights the importance of 'Sodhana chikitsa' in improving the quality of 'Sukra,' thereby enhancing fertility and reducing the risk of recurrent pregnancy loss.
24) Hara:
[see source text or glossary: Hara]
25) Yoni (Yonin):
'Yoni' refers to the female reproductive system, particularly the vagina and uterus. The text discusses 'Yoni sodhana' (purification of the Yoni) as a treatment for conditions like recurrent pregnancy loss.
26) Vata:
'Vata' is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, associated with air and space elements. The text discusses how 'Vata prakopa' (aggravation of Vata) leads to 'Shonita dusti', contributing to recurrent pregnancy loss.
27) Burning sensation:
'Burning sensation' is a symptom associated with 'Pitta dosha prakopa.' The text mentions this as one of the clinical features in 'Puthraghni yonivyapath,' indicating second trimester abortions.
28) Madhavanidana (Madhava-nidana):
'Madhava-nidana' is one of the important texts in Ayurveda that discusses diagnostics and etiology. The text refers to it when discussing 'Vandhya,' recurrent pregnancy loss, and associated conditions.
29) Raktapitta (Rakta-pitta):
'Rakta-pitta' is a condition where both blood ('Rakta') and bile ('Pitta') are involved. The text mentions 'Rakta-pitta dushti' as a contributing factor to recurrent pregnancy loss.
30) Pittadosha (Pittadosa, Pitta-dosha):
'Pitta Dosha' is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda associated with heat. The text discusses 'Pitta prakopa' (aggravation of Pitta) and its role in causing 'Rakta dushti,' leading to recurrent pregnancy loss.
31) Amlalavana (Amla-lavana):
'Amla' and 'Lavana' are tastes associated with sour and salty foods, respectively. The text highlights that excessive consumption of 'Amla-lavana aharas' can aggravate Pitta and lead to 'Rakta dushti,' contributing to recurrent pregnancy loss.
32) Garavisha (Garavisa, Gara-visha):
'Gara-visha' refers to chronic or slow-acting poisons. The text mentions 'Vishahara chikitsa,' which targets these toxins to improve reproductive health and manage conditions like recurrent pregnancy loss.
33) Discussion:
'Discussion' in the text includes the analysis of various factors causing recurrent pregnancy loss, incorporating both modern medical perspectives and Ayurvedic insights to arrive at a holistic understanding and treatment approach.
34) Depression:
'Depression' is mentioned as a psychological factor contributing to 'Vata and Pitta dosha prakopa.' The text advises psychological support and counseling along with physical treatments to manage recurrent pregnancy loss.
35) Dhatvagni (Dhatu-agni):
'Dhatvagni' are the metabolic activities within tissues. The text mentions that 'Shodhana chikitsa' improves 'Dhatvagni,' thus enhancing tissue quality and contributing to the successful pregnancy outcome by reducing recurrent pregnancy loss.
36) Lakshana (Laksana):
'Lakshana' in Ayurveda refers to symptoms or clinical features. The text discusses various 'Lakshanas' of conditions like 'Garbhasravi Vandhya' and 'Puthraghni yonivyapath,' which correlate with recurrent pregnancy loss.
37) Kashmarya (Kasmarya):
'Kasmarya' (Gmelina arborea) is a medicinal plant used in Ayurvedic treatments. 'Acarya Caraka' advises 'Uttaravasti' with 'Ghritha' processed with 'Kasmarya kwatha' for managing 'Puthraghni yonivyapath' related to recurrent pregnancy loss.
38) Samhita:
'Samhita' refers to classical Ayurvedic texts. The text draws references from 'Hareetha Samhita,' 'Caraka Samhita,' and others to explain the Ayurvedic perspective on recurrent pregnancy loss.
39) Shonita (Sonita):
'Sonita' refers to blood in Ayurveda. The text mentions 'Sonita dusti' (vitiation of blood) as a contributing factor to recurrent pregnancy loss, highlighting the importance of blood purification treatments.
40) Madhava:
'Madhava' refers to 'Madhava-Nidana,' a classical Ayurvedic text that discusses diagnostics and etiology. The text cites this source when explaining conditions related to recurrent pregnancy loss.
41) Disease:
[see source text or glossary: Disease]
42) Harita:
'Harita' refers to 'Harita Samhita,' an ancient Ayurvedic text. The text associates recurrent pregnancy loss with 'Garbhasravi Vandhya' mentioned in 'Harita Samhita.'
43) Kutaja (Kuta-ja):
'Kutaja' (Holarrhena antidysenterica) is a medicinal plant used in Ayurveda. 'Acarya Caraka' recommends 'Kutaja kwatha' in 'Uttaravasti' for treating 'Puthraghni yonivyapath' related to recurrent pregnancy loss.
44) Garbha:
'Garbha' refers to the fetus or pregnancy in Ayurveda. The text discusses how 'Garbhasravi Vandhya' and 'Puthraghni yonivyapath' conditions lead to recurrent loss of 'Garbha.'
45) Vihara:
'Vihara' refers to lifestyle activities in Ayurveda. The text discusses how improper 'Vihara,' such as excessive physical activity or lifestyle imbalances, can contribute to conditions like recurrent pregnancy loss.
46) Kerala:
'Kerala' is a state in India where the Regional Ayurveda Research Institute is located. Rajini P, the Senior Research Fellow, conducted the research on Ayurvedic perspectives of recurrent pregnancy loss in Kerala.
47) Krodha:
'Krodha' refers to anger in Ayurveda. The text mentions 'Krodha' as a psychological factor that can aggravate Vata and Pitta Dosha, leading to conditions like recurrent pregnancy loss.
48) Uttara:
'Uttara' relates to 'Uttaravasti,' a specific Ayurvedic treatment involving therapeutic enema. The text recommends 'Uttaravasti' for treating recurrent pregnancy loss, particularly when the cause is unknown.
49) Lavana:
'Lavana' refers to salty tastes. The text discusses that excessive intake of 'Lavana ahara' can aggravate Pitta Dosha, leading to 'Rakta dushti' and contributing to recurrent pregnancy loss.
50) Anidra:
'Anidra' is the term for insomnia or lack of proper sleep in Ayurveda. The text mentions 'Anidra' as a factor that can aggravate Vata Dosha, contributing to recurrent pregnancy loss.
51) Vatika:
'Vatika' refers to conditions related to Vata Dosha in Ayurveda. The text discusses 'Vatika yonivyapath,' a condition described by 'Acarya Caraka' that correlates with recurrent pregnancy loss.
52) Agada:
'Agada' refers to anti-toxic formulations in Ayurveda. The text mentions 'Vishahara chikitsa' using 'Agadas' like 'Vilwadi' or 'Dooshivishari yogam' for treating recurrent pregnancy loss by eliminating toxins.
53) Bhaya:
'Bhaya' refers to fear. The text discusses psychological factors like 'Bhaya' (fear) contributing to 'Vata prakopa,' which can lead to conditions such as recurrent pregnancy loss.
54) Karma (Karman):
'Karma' refers to actions or treatments in Ayurveda. The text mentions the importance of 'Shodhana karma' (purificatory treatments) in managing recurrent pregnancy loss by cleansing the body.
55) Nidra:
'Nidra' refers to sleep in Ayurveda. The text mentions 'Akala nidra' (improper sleep) and 'Anidra' (lack of sleep) as contributing factors to 'Vata' and 'Pitta' aggravation, leading to recurrent pregnancy loss.
56) Sadyas (Sadya, Sadyash):
'Sadya' refers to conditions that are quickly treatable or curable. The text mentions 'Garbhasarvi vandhya' as a 'Sadya' condition according to 'Hareetha,' implying it can be treated effectively.
57) Akala:
'Akala' means improper timing. The text mentions 'Akala nidra' (improper sleep timings) as a factor that can contribute to 'Vata prakopa,' leading to recurrent pregnancy loss.
58) India:
'India' is the country where the research and Ayurvedic practices discussed in the text are primarily based. The study focuses on Ayurvedic perspectives from various classical Indian texts.
59) Ayus (Ayush):
[see source text or glossary: Ayush]
60) Death:
[see source text or glossary: Death]
61) Blood:
'Blood' or 'Rakta' in Ayurveda is crucial for maintaining health. The text mentions 'Rakta dushti' (vitiation of blood) as a significant factor leading to recurrent pregnancy loss.
62) Roga:
'Roga' refers to disease in Ayurveda. The text discusses 'Roga rogi pareeksha' (examination of the disease and patient) as essential for diagnosing and treating recurrent pregnancy loss.
63) Katu:
[see source text or glossary: Katu]
64) Yoga:
'Yoga' in the context of Ayurveda often refers to formulations or preparations. The text mentions 'Vishahara yogas' like 'Dooshivishari yogam' for treating recurrent pregnancy loss by removing toxins.
65) Amla:
'Amla' refers to the sour taste in Ayurveda. The text mentions that excessive intake of 'Amla aharas' can aggravate 'Pitta Dosha,' contributing to conditions like 'Rakta dushti' and recurrent pregnancy loss.