Abstract

UTTARBASTI IN THE MANAGEMENT OF FEMALE INFERTILITY IN AYURVEDIC ASPECTS - A REVIEW ARTICLE

Dr. Prashant Patil* and Dr. Tejashri Ramdas Waghmare

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Abstract

The term "infertility" refers to the inability to conceive within one or more years of regular, unprotected coitus; 25–35% of cases are tubal factor infertility, which affects women's mental and physical health and disrupts their social and familial lives; primary infertility refers to women who have never conceived, while secondary infertility indicates a previous pregnancy but failure to conceive later. The term "infertility" refers to the inability to conceive within one or more years of regular, unprotected coitus; 25–35% of cases are tubal factor infertility, which affects women's mental and physical health and disrupts their social and familial lives; primary infertility refers to women who have never conceived, while secondary infertility indicates a previous pregnancy but failure to conceive later. In Ayurveda, infertility is referred to as Vandhyatva. Acharya Sushruta has extensively described the fundamental factors necessary for conception, collectively known as Garbha Sambhavasamagri. These factors include Ritu (the fertile period), Kshetra (the reproductive system, particularly the Artavavaha Srotas), Ambu (adequate nourishment), and Bija (the quality of ovum and sperm), all of which play a crucial role in successful reproduction. Infertility often arises due to defects in Kshetra, specifically derangements in Artavavaha Srotas, which can result in tubal blockages leading to Vandhyatva. Ayurvedic texts describe various formulations of medicated oils and Ghrita for Uttarbasti (intrauterine therapy), which have shown significant efficacy in managing female infertility. Aim: To study the Ayurvedic perspective on female infertility and its management through Uttarbasti. Objectives: To study female infertility from an Ayurvedic perspective. To explore the role of Uttarbasti in the management of female infertility. Methodology: A search was conducted on Uttarbasti in female infertility, using databases like Google Scholar and PubMed. A total of 33 articles were screened, and 21 relevant articles were selected for review. The collected data was extracted and analyzed. Results: Uttarbasti has proven to be highly effective in managing female infertility. Formulations such as Apamarga Kshara Taila, Yava Kshara Taila, Narayana Taila, Kumari Taila, Bala Ghrita, Sheetkalyanaka Ghrita, Brahmi Ghrita, and Panchagavya Ghrita are commonly employed for Uttarbasti in cases of female infertility. Discussion: According to Ayurveda, Vata Dosha is a primary causative factor for female infertility, and Basti is the most effective Panchakarma therapy for managing Vatavyadhi (disorders caused by Vata). In cases of tubal blockage, which are primarily associated with Kapha and Vata Dosha, Uttarbasti plays a crucial role by restoring the balance of these doshas and improving reproductive health.

Keywords: Vandhyatva, Tubal Factor, Uttarbasti, Medicated Oils, Ghrita.