Ayurveda's Successful Treatment of Unexplained Secondary Infertility
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Successful Treatment of Unexplained Secondary Infertility by Ayurveda- A Case Study
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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Bhavsar Megha Nandkishor
PG Scholar, Dept. of Prasuti Tantra and Stri Roga, YMT Ayurved Medical College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, Kharghar, India.
Mehere Seema Chandrakant
Professor and HOD, Dept. of Prasuti Tantra and Stri Roga, YMT Ayurved Medical College and Hospital, Navi Mumbai, Kharghar, India.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Successful Treatment of Unexplained Secondary Infertility by Ayurveda- A Case Study
Year: 2021 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v8i4.790
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Secondary infertility is defined as the inability to conceive after previously having been pregnant. This condition is increasingly common and can be attributed to various factors, including age, stress, dietary issues, and an unhealthy lifestyle. In women, psychological stress can lead to the generation of reactive oxygen species, resulting in oxidative stress that adversely affects ovarian health and oocyte quality. This case study explores the impact of Ayurvedic treatment on a patient with unexplained secondary infertility over a four-month period, leading to successful conception.
The Role of Oxidative Stress
Oxidative stress arises from an imbalance between free radicals and antioxidants in the body, which can significantly impair female reproductive health. In this case, the patient was reluctant to undergo conventional medical investigations, leading practitioners to consider oxidative stress as a potential cause for her infertility. Stress-induced anovulatory cycles were viewed as contributing factors. The study emphasizes the four vital elements in Ayurvedic medicine for conception—Rutu (time), Kshetra (place), Ambu (water), and Beeja (seed)—which inform the holistic approach taken in the treatment.
Ayurvedic Treatment Methodology
The treatment regimen included oral Ayurvedic medications and Panchakarma therapies tailored to the patient's needs. Over four months, the patient received a combination of Shatavari Vati, Ashwagandha Vati, Phalghrit, and other herbal medicines aimed at rejuvenating the reproductive system, balancing hormones, and reducing stress. Importantly, Panchakarma treatments such as Yogbasti, which target toxin elimination and restore balance to the body, were implemented. This multifaceted approach promoted not only physical health but also psychological well-being, assisting the patient in achieving conception.
Conclusion
This case study illustrates the potential effectiveness of Ayurvedic management as an anti-stress and antioxidant intervention in treating unexplained secondary infertility. The successful conception of the patient within a manageable timeframe supports the notion that Ayurvedic practices can enhance female reproductive health and resilience against stress. Overall, the findings advocate for the integration of traditional Ayurvedic approaches in modern reproductive health care, particularly for cases where conventional methods provide limited answers.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is unexplained secondary infertility as per Ayurveda?
Unexplained secondary infertility refers to the inability to conceive after already having a child, without any identifiable medical cause. Factors contributing to this condition often include stress, unhealthy lifestyle, and oxidative stress that affects reproductive health.
How was the case of secondary infertility managed?
The case involved a 38-year-old woman who, after experiencing two medical terminations of pregnancy (MTPs), was treated with Ayurvedic oral medications and Panchakarma therapies. After four months of treatment, she successfully conceived.
What are the key treatments used in Ayurvedic management?
The treatment included Ayurvedic herbs like Shatavari and Ashwagandha, along with Panchakarma therapy. These are believed to have anti-stress effects and support reproductive health by balancing hormones and improving oocyte quality.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ayurveda's Successful Treatment of Unexplained Secondary Infertility�. 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) Shatavari (Satavari):
Shatavari is an ingredient in Ayurvedic medicine known to regulate estrogen levels and support the production of LH, which is crucial for triggering ovulation. It is also recognized as a major health tonic and popular Rasayana, thereby improving female reproductive health complications including hormonal imbalance.
2) Ashvagandha (Asvagandha, Ashwagandha, Ashvagamdha, Ashva-gandha):
Ashwagandha is described as Balya (strengthening), Bruhaniya (nourishing), and Rasayana (rejuvenating). It possesses antistress, antioxidant, and immune-modulatory properties. It helps in managing stress-induced anovulatory cycles, thus improving fertility and overall reproductive health of women.
3) Medicine:
[see source text or glossary: Medicine]
4) Ghanavati:
Ghanavati refers to a concentrated tablet form used in Ayurvedic medicine. Specific examples include Shatavari Ghanavati and Ashwagandha Ghanavati, which provide medicinal benefits in treating conditions like unexplained secondary infertility by improving reproductive health.
5) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that uses natural remedies to treat various health conditions. In the context of this text, Ayurvedic management, with its anti-stress and antioxidant properties, is shown to improve reproductive health and increase chances of conception.
6) Dosha (Dosa):
[see source text or glossary: Dosha]
7) Drug:
[see source text or glossary: Drug]
8) Rasayana (Rasa-ayana):
Rasayana in Ayurveda refers to rejuvenating agents that promote longevity, health, and well-being. Both Shatavari and Ashwagandha are considered Rasayanas as they enhance reproductive health and may improve hormonal imbalances.
9) Kshetra (Ksetra):
Kshetra in Ayurveda refers to the field or environment within the body, particularly the uterus in the context of fertility. Proper functioning and health of Kshetra is crucial for conception.
10) Allergy:
The patient described in the case study had no known drug or food allergy. This was noted in her case history to ensure the Ayurvedic treatments prescribed did not cause any adverse reactions.
11) Family:
The patient's family history was taken into consideration, which showed no history of any illnesses among family members, providing insight into potential hereditary factors affecting her condition.
12) Megha:
Bhavsar Megha Nandkishor is one of the authors of the case study, contributing to the research on successful treatment of unexplained secondary infertility through Ayurvedic methods.
13) Matra:
Matra refers to the specific measure or dosage of a substance used in treatment. For example, Phalghrit was given in a specific dose of 10 ml BD in the case study to support reproductive health.
14) Basti:
Basti is a Panchakarma procedure involving therapeutic enema in Ayurveda. Yoga Basti, used in the case study, acts as a Shodhan karm (purification treatment) and rejuvenates the body by removing doshas from the rectum.
15) Balya:
Balya refers to substances that provide strength and vitality. Both Shatavari and Ashwagandha are considered Balya in Ayurveda, contributing to improved reproductive health and reducing stress.
16) Tila:
[see source text or glossary: Tila]
17) Ambu:
Ambu in Ayurveda refers to the water or fluid aspect critical for conception. Proper regulation of Ambu is necessary for maintaining the health of reproductive tissues and successful fertilization.
18) Diet:
A healthy diet is essential in Ayurveda for maintaining overall health, including reproductive health. The document notes that intake of Ghrit (clarified butter) and Kshir (milk) can enhance reproductive functions.
19) Vayasthapana (Vaya-sthapana):
Vayasthapana is an Ayurvedic term for an agent that stabilizes youth and vitality. Shatavari, for instance, is considered Vayasthapana as it supports longevity and reproductive health.
20) Daruharidra (Daru-haridra):
[see source text or glossary: Daruharidra]
21) Yashtimadhu (Yastimadhu, Yashti-madhu):
[see source text or glossary: Yashtimadhu]
22) Vatadosha (Vatadosa, Vata-dosha):
Vata-dosha is one of the three doshas in Ayurveda responsible for movement and regulation of bodily functions, including the reproductive system. Balancing Vata-dosha is crucial for addressing conditions like infertility.
23) Discussion:
The discussion highlights possible causes of secondary infertility such as advancing age and stress. Ayurvedic treatments outlined in the case improved the patient’s fertility through various herbs and Panchakarma, addressing these factors.
24) Punarnava (Punar-nava):
[see source text or glossary: Punarnava]
25) Striroga (Stri-roga):
Stri-roga refers to women's health disorders in Ayurveda. In this case, the patient was treated in the Streeroga and Prasutitantra department, focusing on reproductive health issues and infertility.
26) Knowledge:
[see source text or glossary: Knowledge]
27) Triphala (Tri-phala):
[see source text or glossary: Triphala]
28) Pariksha (Pariksa):
Ashtavidh Pariksha refers to the eight-fold examination method in Ayurveda to check various body parameters like Nadi (pulse), Mala (stool), and others for diagnosis. The patient’s parameters were normal.
29) Epilepsy:
[see source text or glossary: Epilepsy]
30) Prastha (Prashtha):
Prastha is a unit of measure in Ayurveda, used here to indicate the quantity of Ghrit (ghee) administered in treatment. For example, Phalghrit was given in a Prastha Matra.
31) Payasya:
[see source text or glossary: Payasya]
32) Prasuti:
Prasuti refers to obstetrics in Ayurvedic practice, focusing on pregnancy and childbirth. The department of Prasuti Tantra and Stri Roga managed the patient's infertility treatment.
33) Haridra:
[see source text or glossary: Haridra]
34) Tantra (Tamtra, Tantrism):
[see source text or glossary: Tantra]
35) Shabda (Sabda):
[see source text or glossary: Shabda]
36) Akriti (Akrti):
[see source text or glossary: Akriti]
37) Desire:
Desire to conceive was a major complaint of the patient, who was actively trying to get pregnant for three years post her last MTP but could not, despite regular unprotected intercourse.
38) Rasna (Rashna, Rasona, Rasa-una):
[see source text or glossary: Rasna]
39) Mutra:
Mutra refers to urine in Ayurveda. In the patient’s examination, her urination was labeled as 'Prakrut,' meaning normal, indicating no urinary issues impacting her reproductive health.
40) India:
The case study was conducted in Navi Mumbai, India, by YMT Ayurved Medical College and Hospital, demonstrating the efficacy of traditional Indian medicine in treating secondary infertility.
41) Ayus (Ayush):
AYUSH stands for Ayurveda, Yoga & Naturopathy, Unani, Siddha and Homoeopathy. The journal AYUSHDHARA focuses on research in these traditional systems of medicine.
42) Edema (Oedema):
[see source text or glossary: Edema]
43) Roga:
Roga, meaning disease in Sanskrit, is part of the term Stri-roga, referring to women’s health disorders that were addressed in the patient’s case with Ayurvedic intervention.
44) Yoga:
Yoga, in conjunction with Ayurvedic treatments, helps manage stress, which is a known factor affecting fertility. Panchakarma, including Yoga Basti, was part of the treatment protocol in the study.
45) Medas (Meda, Medash):
[see source text or glossary: Meda]
46) Vati:
Vati refers to tablets in Ayurvedic practice, such as Shatavari Vati and Ashwagandha Vati, which were administered to the patient to help manage her secondary infertility.
47) Nadi (Nadin):
Nadi, meaning pulse, is one of the eight parameters in Ashtavidh Pariksha used for diagnosis in Ayurveda. The patient's Nadi was found to be 84/min, indicating a normal pulse rate.
48) Mala:
Mala refers to the waste products of the body, including stool. The patient's bowel movements were normal, which is vital for maintaining overall health according to Ayurvedic principles.
49) Vata:
Vata is one of the three doshas that governs movement and bodily coordination. Imbalances in Vata can lead to reproductive health issues, which were addressed through specific Ayurvedic treatments.
50) Vayu:
Vayu refers specifically to the air element, particularly Apan Vayu, which controls genital organs and elimination processes. Treatments like Basti help to balance Vayu, supporting reproductive health.
51) Food:
Diet plays a crucial role in Ayurveda. The text emphasizes the importance of Ghrit (ghee) and Kshir (milk) for enhancing reproductive health and managing conditions like unexplained secondary infertility.
Other Science Concepts:
Discover the significance of concepts within the article: �Ayurveda's Successful Treatment of Unexplained Secondary Infertility�. Further sources in the context of Science might help you critically compare this page with similair documents:
Conception, Clinical examination, Ayurvedic medicine, Ayurvedic treatment, Fertility, Psychological stress, Hormonal imbalance, Ayurvedic Management, Oxidative stress, Case study, Menstrual history, Anovulatory cycle, Follicle-stimulating hormone, Panchkarma, Ovulation study, Ayurvedic oral medications, Traditional Ayurvedic practice, Health tonic, Reproductive disorder, Female reproductive health, Anti stress agent.
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