Abstract

YOGA AN EFFECTIVE, ALTERNATIVE AND COST EFFECTIVE APPROACH TOWARDS MANAGEMENT OF DYSMENORRHEA.

Mahajan Roshi*, Dogra Jyoti and Tewari Aditaya Nath

Abstract

Dysmenorrhea undoubtedly one of the most common complaint among all gynecological disorders; is a medical condition of pain during menstruation that interferes with daily activities, The incidence of dysmenorrhea is seen more in the ages of early reproductive years. Painful menses in women with a normal pelvic anatomy, usually beginning during adolescence can be attributed as Primary dysmenorrhea.[1] According to Acharya Charaka that Vata is the causative factor of all Yoniroga.[2] He described Udavarta yoni roga in Vataja nanatmaja diseases[3] which means an upward direction of Vayu. In this disease Aggravated Apana Vayu pushes the rajas in upward direction causing an obstruction to its flow so Raja comes out with great difficulty and with severe Shoola.[4] Because the pain and discomfort is subjective, diagnosis relies upon the proper history. It is also important to differentiate the primary diagnosis from the secondary one. Prognosis of dysmenorrhea is good. It can be treated successfully with Ayurvedic single herbs or formulations in addition to making diet and lifestyle changes. Experts believe that one of the major contributing factors to menstrual cramps can be lack of exercise.[5] Unhealthy dietary habits have also been known to add to the woe. Yoga is a holistic approach towards a physically and mentally healthy lifestyle. When practiced regularly over a period of time, it can have the desired effects on the body. Few studies have been done on yoga as therapy for stress and primary dysmenorrhea. This study is aimed at evaluating the efficacy of yoga as alternative therapy for primary dysmenorrhea and stress.

Keywords: Yoga, Dysmenorrhea, Udavarta,Shoola, Nanatmaja.