Ayurvedic Management of Hydrosalpinx: A Case Report
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Ayurvedic Management of Hydrosalpinx: A Case Report
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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K. Bharathi
Professor and Head, Department of Prasutitantra and Striroga, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, India.
Khushboo Jha
PG Scholar, Department of Prasutitantra and Striroga, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, India.
Pushpalatha B
Associate Professor, Department of Prasutitantra and Striroga, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, India.
Poonam Choudhury
Assistant Professor, Department of Prasutitantra and Striroga, National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, India.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Ayurvedic Management of Hydrosalpinx: A Case Report
Year: 2021 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v8i6.848
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Infertility can arise from various factors, including ovulatory, endometrial, and tubal issues, with tubal factors being particularly significant in cases related to chronic pelvic inflammatory disease. This article presents a case report of a 27-year-old female patient suffering from primary infertility due to bilateral hydrosalpinx, as diagnosed via ultrasound. The Ayurvedic approach employed involved a combination of detoxifying treatments and localized therapies aimed at reducing the hydrosalpinx, ultimately restoring normal fallopian tube function.
Importance of Ayurvedic Shodhana Therapy
Ayurvedic medicine emphasizes the balance of four key factors for achieving conception: Ritu (season), Kshetra (uterus), Ambu (nutritional essence), and Bija (gametes). In this context, hydrosalpinx represents a Kshetravikriti, an ailment affecting the reproductive system. The treatment regimen incorporated Shodhana (purification) methods, including the vaginal suppository Yonivarti. The treatment aimed to cleanse the reproductive tract, thereby addressing underlying infections and inflammatory concerns, ultimately facilitating the restoration of reproductive health.
Role of Yonivarti in Treatment
Yonivarti, or vaginal wicks, serve as a targeted therapeutic option for gynecological disorders, particularly conditions such as hydrosalpinx. The formulation of the Yonivarti included medicinal herbs known for their detoxifying and anti-inflammatory properties, which aid in expelling pus and promoting health within the fallopian tubes. The application of Yonivarti showed promising results, including the reduction of foul-smelling discharges, indicating a cleansing process, and lead to successful normalization of the fallopian tube dimensions following treatment.
Conclusion
This case underlines the potential of Ayurvedic treatments, particularly through localized therapies like Yonivarti, in managing hydrosalpinx and addressing infertility without resorting to surgical interventions. By leveraging the therapeutic benefits of herbal formulations and emphasizing holistic health, Ayurvedic approaches effectively alleviated the patient's condition and preserved her reproductive capabilities. This highlights a significant opportunity for integrating traditional practices within contemporary medical frameworks to provide comprehensive care for infertility.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is the Ayurvedic approach to managing hydrosalpinx?
The Ayurvedic management for hydrosalpinx involves treatments like Shodhana and Yonivarti, which focus on detoxification and local applications to cleanse the reproductive system, ultimately improving chances of fertility.
What symptoms did the patient with hydrosalpinx experience?
The patient reported severe pain before menstruation, intermittent left inguinal pain, scanty menstruation, and primary infertility, which led her to seek Ayurvedic treatment.
What was the outcome of the Ayurvedic treatment for hydrosalpinx?
After undergoing Ayurvedic treatment which included Yonivarti, the patient's ultrasound showed a significant reduction in hydrosalpinx size, indicating a positive response to the treatment and a potential return to fertility.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Ayurvedic Management of Hydrosalpinx: A Case Report�. 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) Varti (Vartin):
A 'Varti' is an Ayurvedic vaginal suppository used as a local treatment. In this case study, 'Yonivarti' was used for the management of hydrosalpinx, aiding in the clearing and healing of the fallopian tubes. ['Varti' is prepared by mixing medicinal powders with substances like 'Guda' and 'Chagamutra'.]
2) Disease:
The 'Disease' discussed in the case report is hydrosalpinx, an ailment of the fallopian tubes that commonly contributes to infertility. It is often caused by chronic pelvic inflammatory disease and can lead to tubal obstruction and fluid accumulation. Ayurvedic treatment aims to treat the root cause.
3) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is a traditional system of medicine from India that utilizes various natural therapies and herbs. In the context of this case report, Ayurvedic principles and treatments were employed to manage hydrosalpinx and support reproductive health, showing a natural alternative to surgical interventions.
4) Drug:
In the case study, multiple 'Drug' interventions were utilized. Ayurvedic medications like 'Triphala Guggulu and Godanti Bhasma' were administered for their anti-inflammatory and healing properties, working in conjunction with 'Yonivarti' to treat the chronic infection, reduce inflammation, and restore the function of the fallopian tubes.
5) Garbhashaya (Garbhasaya, Garbha-ashaya):
'Garbhashaya' refers to the uterus, which includes the fallopian tubes, and is considered under 'Kshetra Vikriti' in Ayurveda. The fallopian tubes are the site of fertilization and any inflammation or obstruction in this region, such as hydrosalpinx, can severely impact fertility and conception.
6) Family:
The 'Family' of the patient showed a history of malignancy in the mother, but no other significant familial disorders like hypertension or diabetes were recorded. Family and social history helps in understanding patient's background and any potential hereditary factors in disease manifestation.
7) Pain:
'Pain' was a significant symptom in the patient, described as severe before menstruation and intermittent in the left inguinal region. The Ayurvedic treatment aimed to address this symptom by reducing inflammation and treating the underlying infection in the fallopian tubes causing the discomfort.
8) Triphala (Tri-phala):
'Triphala' is a common Ayurvedic herbal formulation known for its detoxifying properties and was used in the 'Yonivarti' preparation. It aids in cleansing the reproductive tract and has antimicrobial properties beneficial in cases of pelvic inflammatory diseases and hydrosalpinx.
9) Jaipur:
'Jaipur' is the location of the National Institute of Ayurveda where the case study was conducted. The patient approached the Prasutitanntra and Striroga department at this institute for the treatment of her hydrosalpinx after conventional treatments failed to provide relief.
10) Dosha (Dosa):
In Ayurveda, 'Dosha' refers to the three fundamental bio-elements: Vata, Pitta, and Kapha. Imbalances in Doshas, particularly 'Kapha' and 'Pitta', were noted to contribute to hydrosalpinx in this case by causing infections and blockages in the fallopian tubes. The treatment aimed to rebalance these Doshas.
11) Food:
The 'Food' or dietary advice given to the patient included avoiding spicy, fried, and fermented items while emphasizing the intake of green leafy vegetables, simple foods, and milk. This diet aimed to reduce inflammation and support the body's natural healing processes during Ayurvedic treatment.
12) Triphalaguggulu (Triphala-guggulu):
'Triphalaguggulu' is an Ayurvedic formulation combining 'Triphala' and 'Guggulu' known for its detoxifying, anti-inflammatory, and antimicrobial properties. This combination was used to treat hydrosalpinx by reducing inflammation, preventing infections, and promoting the detoxification of the reproductive tract.
13) Shodhana (Sodhana):
[see previous definition for Shodhana]
14) Bharathi:
K. Bharathi is one of the authors of the case report, holding the position of Professor and Head in the Department of Prasutitantra and Striroga at the National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur. Dr. Bharathi contributed to the planning and documentation of the Ayurvedic treatment for hydrosalpinx.
15) Striroga (Stri-roga):
'Striroga' refers to women's diseases encompassing gynecological disorders in Ayurveda. The departmental expertise in such ailments helped in formulating a comprehensive Ayurvedic treatment plan, including the use of 'Yonivarti' and oral medications, to address the patient's hydrosalpinx effectively.
16) Kshetra (Ksetra):
'Kshetra' is the field or site, in this case, the uterus and adnexa in female reproductive health. In Ayurveda, pathological conditions affecting the 'Kshetra', such as hydrosalpinx, which impacts the fallopian tubes, are addressed through both oral and local treatments to restore fertility and overall health.
17) Guggulu:
'Guggulu' is a resin used in Ayurvedic medicine for its healing properties. It is one of the key ingredients in 'Triphala Guggulu', helping to detoxify the body, reduce inflammation, and manage infections, which are crucial in the treatment of hydrosalpinx.
18) Bhasma (Bhasman):
'Bhasma' refers to ash used in Ayurveda after calcination of substances. 'Godanti Bhasma', comprising anhydrous calcium sulfate, was used in this case study for its 'Pittahara' (Pitta-pacifying) and anti-inflammatory properties to help in managing hydrosalpinx by reducing tubal inflammation and promoting healing.
19) Pitta:
In Ayurveda, 'Pitta' is one of the three Doshas associated with heat and metabolism. Imbalances in 'Pitta' can lead to inflammatory conditions like hydrosalpinx. Ayurvedic treatments aim to balance Pitta through specific dietary recommendations and medications, driving down inflammation and aiding recovery.
20) Yoni (Yonin):
'Yoni' is the vagina, but it often refers to the entire female reproductive system in Ayurvedic texts. Treatments like 'Yonivarti' focus on treating 'Yoni' infections and inflammations, which in turn helps manage conditions affecting the fallopian tubes and uterus such as hydrosalpinx.
21) Vranaropana (Vrana-ropana):
'Vrana-ropana' refers to the healing of wounds or ulcers. The 'Yonivarti' used in the treatment of hydrosalpinx included herbs with 'Vrana Ropana' properties, which facilitated the healing of the inflamed and infected tissues of the fallopian tubes, thus restoring their function.
22) Tuberculosis:
'Tuberculosis', particularly of the genital tract, is one cause of salpingitis leading to hydrosalpinx. In the case study, such infections are noted to cause inflammation and blockages in the fallopian tubes, which Ayurvedic treatment aimed to address through detoxification and healing properties of the used drugs.
23) Madanaphala:
'Madanaphala' is one of the ingredients in the 'Yonishodhana' vaginal suppositories prepared for treating hydrosalpinx. It is known for its purgative properties, aiding in the removal of dosha-induced impurities and promoting the clearing of infections and inflammations within the reproductive tract.
24) Arogyasala (Arogyashala, Arogya-shala):
'Arogyashala' refers to a health center or clinic. In the context of the case study, the Arogyashala at the National Institute of Ayurveda, Jaipur, is where the patient received her Ayurvedic treatment, including consultations, physical examinations, and the administration of 'Yonivarti' and other therapies.
25) Krimighna (Krmighna, Krimi-ghna):
'Krimighna' refers to anti-parasitic or anti-worm properties of an Ayurvedic formulation. The 'Yonivarti' and other Ayurvedic treatments used in managing hydrosalpinx possess 'Krimighna' properties, ensuring the eradication of infectious agents causing inflammation and blockages in the fallopian tubes.
26) Putisrava:
'Putisrava' refers to the accumulation of pus, often due to infections. In the case of hydrosalpinx, 'Putisrava' occurs within the fallopian tubes, leading to inflammation and obstruction. Ayurvedic treatments like 'Yonivarti' aim to cleanse the reproductive tract, expelling purulent discharges and fostering healing.
27) Ropana:
'Ropana' in Ayurvedic terminology means healing or curing. The 'Yonivarti' used in the treatment of hydrosalpinx contains ingredients that have 'Ropana' (healing) properties to help repair the inflamed and damaged tissues of the fallopian tubes, facilitating normal function and improving fertility.
28) Powder:
'Powder' forms are used in Ayurvedic medicine preparation. In the case study, various medicinal powders were mixed to prepare the 'Yonivarti' (vaginal suppositories) for treating hydrosalpinx. Such powders included herbs and minerals that provide antimicrobial, anti-inflammatory, and healing effects.
29) Kapha:
'Kapha' is one of the three Doshas in Ayurveda, associated with water and earth elements. Imbalance of 'Kapha', along with 'Pitta' is implicated in the pathogenesis of hydrosalpinx, leading to infections and blockages in the fallopian tubes, which were managed by rebalancing Doshas through Ayurvedic treatments.
30) Krimi (Krmi):
'Krimi' refers to harmful microorganisms or parasites. According to the source text, the vitiation of Doshas, including 'Kapha' and 'Pitta', along with the invasion of 'Krimi' (pathogens), leads to the accumulation of pus ('Putisrava') in hydrosalpinx. Ayurvedic treatments aim to cleanse and eliminate these pathogens.
31) Vrana:
'Vrana' denotes wounds or ulcers in Ayurvedic terminology. Treatments with 'Vrana Ropana' (healing) properties were employed to treat the inflamed tissues of the fallopian tubes. This helped reduce the inflammation, clear infections, and promote tissue repair in the case of hydrosalpinx.
32) India:
India is the origin country of Ayurveda and the location of the case study. The patient approached the National Institute of Ayurveda in Jaipur, India, for Ayurvedic management of hydrosalpinx after conventional medical treatments failed to provide relief, showcasing traditional medicine's role in modern health issues.
33) Ritu (Rtu):
'Ritu' in Ayurveda refers to the season or appropriate time. For conception, 'Ritu' indicates the fertility window period, which is essential along with other factors like 'Kshetra' (uterus), 'Ambu' (nutrients), and 'Bija' (sperm and ovum) for successful pregnancy. Managing hydrosalpinx restores proper 'Ritu' conditions for conception.
34) Guda:
'Guda' or jaggery is used in Ayurvedic medicine preparation. In this case, 'Guda' was one of the binding agents used in preparing 'Yonivarti'. It helps in making the suppository easy to apply and enhances the medicinal properties of the included herbs and minerals.
35) Ambu:
'Ambu' in Ayurveda represents the fluid or essence derived from maternal food that nourishes the embryo. Proper 'Ambu' is crucial for conception and fetal development. Conditions affecting the fallopian tubes, like hydrosalpinx, disrupt this nutrient flow, which Ayurvedic treatments aim to restore.
36) Saindhavalavana (Saindhava-lavana, Saimdhavalavana):
'Saindhava-lavana' or rock salt is used in many Ayurvedic formulations. It was one of the ingredients in the 'Yonishodhana Varti' used in the case study. Saindhava-lavana aids in detoxification and has antimicrobial properties, contributing to the healing process of the fallopian tubes affected by hydrosalpinx.
37) Antibiotic (Antibacterial):
Antibiotics were initially used to treat the patient's chronic pelvic inflammatory disease and hydrosalpinx. However, the text indicates that despite broad-spectrum antibiotic therapy, the patient did not obtain significant relief, prompting the switch to Ayurvedic treatments that included 'Yonivarti'.
38) Vranashodhana (Vranasodhana, Vrana-shodhana):
'Vranashodhana' refers to the cleansing or purification of wounds in Ayurveda. It is an essential property of 'Yonivarti' used in this case, helping to cleanse the infected and pus-filled fallopian tubes. This promotes healing by removing toxins and infected secretions in hydrosalpinx.
39) Purification:
Purification or 'Shodhana' is a central concept in Ayurveda, aimed at detoxifying and cleansing the body. In the treatment of hydrosalpinx, 'Shodhana' was achieved through the use of 'Yonivarti' to cleanse the reproductive tract, expelling pus, and promoting healing of the fallopian tubes.
40) Inflammation:
Inflammation is a key aspect of conditions like hydrosalpinx. The case study noted the use of Ayurvedic treatments with anti-inflammatory properties, such as 'Triphala-guggulu' and 'Godanti Bhasma', to reduce inflammation, heal the fallopian tubes, and restore normal function.
41) Maharashtra (Maharastra, Maha-rashtra):
Maharashtra is mentioned in the context of a study by the Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Seth G.S. Medical College and KEM Hospital in Mumbai, Maharashtra. The study provided background data on the prevalence of tubal factor infertility, aligning with the issues addressed in the case study.
42) Dravyaguna (Dravya-guna):
[see source text or glossary: Dravyaguna]
43) Discussion:
'Discussion' in the case report highlights the efficacy of Ayurvedic treatments like 'Yonivarti' for managing hydrosalpinx. It discusses the underlying pathology, treatment rationale, and benefits of Ayurvedic therapies over surgical interventions in preserving fertility and managing the disease.
44) Saindhava (Saimdhava):
[see source text or glossary: Saindhava]
45) Jvarahara (Jvara-hara):
'Jvarahara' means fever-reducing in Ayurveda. 'Godanti Bhasma' used in this case has 'Jvarahara' properties, which also contribute to its anti-inflammatory effects that are beneficial in reducing the inflammation associated with hydrosalpinx, thereby aiding in the healing process.
46) Pittahara (Pitta-hara):
'Pittahara' refers to substances that pacify the Pitta Dosha. 'Godanti Bhasma' is known for its 'Pittahara' properties, making it suitable for treating inflammatory conditions like hydrosalpinx, which are often associated with aggravated Pitta, resulting in reduced inflammation and promoting healing.
47) Shambhava (Sambhava):
'Garbha Sambhava Samagri' refers to the essential factors for conception in Ayurveda, namely 'Ritu', 'Kshetra', 'Ambu', and 'Bija'. Hydrosalpinx, affecting the 'Kshetra' (fallopian tubes), disrupts these factors. Ayurvedic treatment aims to restore balance, ensuring successful conception.
48) Sthanika:
'Sthanika' refers to localized treatments in Ayurveda. 'Yonivarti' is a form of 'Sthanika chikitsa' used in the case study for hydrosalpinx. It involves the application of medicated suppositories directly to the vagina, targeting the affected area to provide effective local treatment and healing.
49) Prasuti:
[see source text or glossary: Prasuti]
50) Kalpana:
[see source text or glossary: Kalpana]
51) Vikriti (Vikrti):
'Kshetra Vikriti' refers to pathological conditions affecting the 'Kshetra' or uterus and its adnexa, including the fallopian tubes. Hydrosalpinx is considered a 'Kshetrajavikriti' as it involves blockage and infection of the fallopian tubes, affecting fertility, which Ayurvedic treatment aims to correct.
52) Anupana:
'Anupana' is the medium or vehicle used to administer Ayurvedic medicine. In the case study, medications like 'Triphala Guggulu' and 'Godanti Bhasma' were taken with 'Anupana' such as lukewarm water or normal water, which helps to enhance the drug's efficacy and absorption by the body.
53) Samaka (Shamaka):
'Shamaka' refers to the pacifying or calming effect on Doshas. In the case of hydrosalpinx, Ayurvedic treatments included 'Pitta Shamaka' drugs like 'Godanti Bhasma' to reduce inflammation and pacify the aggravated Pitta, aiding in the reduction of tubal blockage and promoting healing.
54) Village:
'Village' in the context of the case study pertains to the patient's residence, a nearby village of Jaipur. Understanding her rural background is essential for considering any environmental or lifestyle factors that might contribute to her condition and designing appropriate treatment protocols.
55) Samana (Shamana):
In Ayurveda, 'Shamana' refers to therapies that pacify aggravated Doshas without expelling them, differing from 'Shodhana'. The case employed both 'Shamana' and 'Shodhana' therapies, with oral medications like 'Triphala Guggulu' and 'Godanti Bhasma' providing supportive 'Shamana' treatment for hydrosalpinx.
56) Hygiene (Hygienic):
'Hygiene' is emphasized in the treatment recommendations for the patient with hydrosalpinx. She was advised to maintain good personal hygiene, including washing with warm water, using clean and sun-dried undergarments, and keeping the vaginal area clean after every vaginal suppository application.
57) Garbha:
'Garbha' means embryo or pregnancy in Ayurveda. Proper function of the 'Garbhashaya' (uterus and fallopian tubes) is essential for 'Garbha' or conception. In treating hydrosalpinx, Ayurvedic therapies aim to restore the health of the 'Garbhashaya', thereby facilitating normal fertilization and pregnancy.
58) Gutika:
'Gutika' refers to tablets or pills in Ayurveda. 'Triphala Guggulu' was administered in the form of 'Gutika' in this case study. Gutika form allows for precise dosage and easy administration, providing therapeutic benefits such as reducing inflammation and detoxifying the reproductive tract.
Other Science Concepts:
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