Ayurveda For Infertility
Reproduction is natures boon to mankind for procreation. Due to various changes in lifestyle and improper diet, the health and wellbeing of an individual have been affected. Primarily among the prevalent ailments, most common is infertility. Here will discuss how Ayurveda helps in infertility to resolve all infertility issues in males and females.
So what is Infertility? Definition of Infertility
According to Ayurveda, infertility is explained as when a female of reproductive age is unable to contribute to conception for several years or is unable to conceive for many years after the first delivery, in spite of leading an active unprotected sexual life and without the use of contraceptives. It is termed as Vandhyatva/Apraja.
Ayurveda emphasizes four major factors responsible for Fertility / Causes of Infertility
They are Ritu, Kshetra, Ambu and Bija
Ritu is the phase when proper ovulation happens.
Kshetra is the area where conception occurs or a healthy uterus.
Ambu is referred to the elements required to form and support a healthy conception
Bija is a healthy ovum in females and a healthy sperm in males.
All these elements need to be in a healthy and non-diseased form to facilitate a healthy progeny.
What are the factors leading to Infertility?
Some of these factors can cause infertility in a female
Age-As age advances the chances of a normal conception reduce.
Obesity or being overweight, so also being underweight also affects fertility.
Irregular menstrual cycles, Ovulation disorders like PCOS, PCOD, insufficient ovarian reserve, Follicles not reaching maturity impact fertility in a female.
Factors like Blocked fallopian tubes, Endometriosis, Pelvic Inflammatory disease, and Infection are also responsible.
Endocrine factors like Amenorrhea, Dysfunctional uterine bleeding, hypothyroidism, hyperthyroidism and hormonal imbalance also affect fertility.
Medications like anti-epileptic and antipsychotic drugs may lead to infertility.
What are the causes of Male Infertility?
Disorders of the sperm-like azoospermia, oligospermia, abnormal morphology of the sperm, poor sperm motility.
Habits like smoking and consumption of alcohol along with long term usage of certain medications can also cause infertility.
Functional disorders like premature ejaculation and retrograde ejaculation also are responsible for male infertility.
Infections, history of viral infections, sexual diseases, hormonal disorders, and exposure to toxic chemicals or radiation are also some of the factors.
Incompatibility between partners, depression, stress and anxiety also causes infertility.
The approach of Ayurveda
Ayurveda is based on the Tridosha theory-Vata, Pitta, Kapha.
An imbalance or improper functioning of these factors can impact both the functional and morphological defects leading to infertility.
The concept of metabolism or Agni is of prime importance in Ayurveda. When there is a disturbance in metabolism also called Agni Dusti leading to Ama, it starts to impair the channels blocking them. Hence a proper diet is of prime importance to strengthen the metabolism and help in the formation of healthy sperm and ovum.
Ojus is the essence of all the elements supportive of all systems in the body. A proper nutritious diet taken on time helps to enhance Ojus which in turn helps to nourish the reproductive system.
Lifestyle changes based on the season conducive to the Prakriti of the person is another important aspect to help the couple in need.
Ayurveda For Infertility
The approach of Ayurveda in terms of treatment is based on 2 aspects/Chikitsa/ Ayurvedic treatment for infertility
- Shodhana
- Shamana
As the channels need to be cleansed before administering medications Shodhana is done through Panchakarma like Vamana or medicated emesis, Virechana or medicated purgation, Basti or medicated enemas. Also, external therapies like Abhyanga, Shirodhara, and Udwartana may also be advised based on the condition.
After proper cleansing, medications are absorbed better and act as supportive factors to assist the couple in attaining a healthy progeny.
A healthy lifestyle should include an exercise regime in the form of walking, Yoga and Pranayam. A balanced state of mind is also of utmost importance in the couple. Counselling for the couple will help to educate them in maintaining a balanced state of mind and body through meditation and Dhyan which helps to facilitate a compatible environment. Detailed guidance about the fertile period for a natural conception is also advised.
It’s every couple’s dream to conceive naturally and beget a healthy progeny. Ayurveda makes this journey fruitful through a natural and holistic approach.
