Prasava (labour) in ayurveda- a less known concept
Journal name: Ayushdhara
Original article title: Prasava (labour) in ayurveda- a less known concept
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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Shreyes. S
PhD Scholar, Department of PhD Studies in Prasooti Tantra & Stree roga, Parul Institute of Ayurveda, Vadodara, Gujarat. Associate Professor, Department of P.G Studies in Prasooti Tantra & Stree roga, Rajiv Gandhi Eductaion Society’s Ayurvedic Medical College, Ron.
Asokan V
Professor & HOD, Department of PhD Studies in Prasooti Tantra & Stree roga, Parul Institute of Ayurveda, Vadodara, Gujarat.
Yogitha Bali M.R
Professor, Dept. of Shalya Tantra, Sushrutha Ayurvedic Medical College, Bangalore, Karnataka, India.
Ayushdhara:
(A peer-reviewed, bi-monthly open-access journal)
Full text available for: Prasava (labour) in ayurveda- a less known concept
Year: 2020 | Doi: 10.47070/ayushdhara.v7i4.611
Copyright (license): CC BY-NC-SA 4.0
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Summary of article contents:
Introduction
Childbirth is widely recognized as a natural and physiological process, yet it often entails significant pain and discomfort for women. The experience of labor pain can vary greatly among individuals, influenced by numerous factors, and is typically perceived as one of the most intense pains people endure. While conventional medical practices primarily manage labor pain through pharmacological means, both pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods are essential for effective pain relief. Non-pharmacological approaches can include techniques like breathing exercises, specific bodily positions, and engaging in mobility. Ayurveda, although an ancient medical practice with extensive knowledge of labor and childbirth, remains less understood and underutilized in its application.
Understanding Prasava in Ayurveda
In Ayurveda, the term "Prasava" signifies the labor process, encompassing the events associated with the expulsion of the fetus. It is described in terms emphasizing natural occurrences, such as spontaneous onset, vertex presentation, and minimal complications. The significance of natural processes is highlighted by Acharya Sushruta, who related the detachment process of the fetus to the ripening of fruit. Furthermore, various Ayurvedic texts outline the criteria for healthy labor, known as "Sukhaprasava," which refers to an uncomplicated birthing experience. The role of intrinsic factors, including the natural maturation of the fetus and the mother's body, is essential in the discourse on labor.
Labor Stages and Management in Ayurveda
Ayurvedic texts classify labor into distinct stages and emphasize certain symptoms and signs indicative of labor progression. According to the sages, labor consists of both pre-labor (such as symptoms like KukshiShaithilya and Jaghanashula) and the more active phases of labor characterized by progressively intense contractions. Furthermore, the involvement of medicinal smoke, auspicious hymns, and dietary recommendations such as the consumption of meat soup or rice gruel before labor is noted to help facilitate an easier labor experience. The management strategies derived from Ayurvedic principles aim to psychologically empower the woman during the process, thus enhancing her capacity to cope with the challenges of labor.
Conclusion
The Ayurvedic perspective on labor offers valuable insights into the management of childbirth, emphasizing a holistic approach that combines traditional knowledge with modern practices. This understanding can enrich the experiences of healthcare professionals and expectant mothers alike, highlighting the potential for integrating Ayurvedic principles into contemporary prenatal care and labor practices. By fostering a comprehensive approach to childbirth rooted in both historical wisdom and modern research, the aim is to improve maternal and fetal outcomes while minimizing complications related to labor.
FAQ section (important questions/answers):
What is Prasava and its significance in Ayurveda?
Prasava, or labor, is a natural physiological process in Ayurveda. It refers to the series of events leading to childbirth, emphasizing a holistic approach to managing labor pain and ensuring a safe delivery for both mother and child.
How does Ayurveda approach labor pain management?
Ayurveda offers various management strategies for labor pain, including herbal remedies, dietary advice, and non-pharmacological methods like breathing exercises and specific positions. This holistic approach aims to alleviate pain while promoting a positive birthing experience.
What factors influence a woman's perception of labor pain?
A woman’s perception of labor pain varies due to psychological factors, previous birth experiences, and physical conditions. Each experience is unique, but labor pain is consistently rated high on the pain scale compared to other life experiences.
Glossary definitions and references:
Scientific and Ayurvedic Glossary list for “Prasava (labour) in ayurveda- a less known concept�. 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) Labour (Labor):
Labour refers to the process of childbirth and can be a significant, sometimes painful experience, involving contractions to expel the baby from the womb. Various stages and methods of pain relief are discussed in conventional medicine and Ayurveda.
2) Prasava:
Prasava is the term in Ayurveda for labour or childbirth. It encompasses various stages of delivering a baby, describing both the physiological and holistic approaches towards managing this natural process.
3) Pain:
Pain during labour is a common experience and can vary significantly among women. It is often addressed through both pharmacological and non-pharmacological methods, with Ayurveda offering unique perspectives and solutions.
4) Ayurveda (Ayus-veda):
Ayurveda is an ancient Indian system of medicine that provides a holistic approach to health, including detailed descriptions and management of Prasava (labour). It integrates herbal medicine, yoga, and other practices for maternal and fetal well-being.
5) Garbha:
Garbha means fetus or embryo in Ayurveda. The process of Prasava involves the detachment and expulsion of Garbha, leading to childbirth. It is a central focus in the Ayurvedic management of pregnancy and labour.
6) Kashyapa (Kasyapa, Kashya-pa, Kashyapanamdana):
Kashyapa is an ancient Ayurvedic scholar who has provided detailed descriptions of Prasava, including specific symptoms and stages. His teachings emphasize holistic care including recitation of hymns and dietary recommendations during labour.
7) Lakshana (Laksana):
Lakshana refers to the symptoms or signs. In the context of labour, various Lakshanas are described in Ayurveda to indicate different stages and progress of Prasava.
8) Yoni (Yonin):
Yoni refers to the female reproductive organs. During labour, it undergoes significant changes characterized by pain, stretching, and discharge as described in Ayurvedic texts.
9) Pharmacological:
Pharmacological methods for pain management include medications such as epidurals and analgesics. These are commonly used but may not always lead to more positive labour experiences.
10) Vagbhata:
Vagbhata is an important figure in Ayurvedic literature who provided extensive descriptions of Prasava, emphasizing the importance of dietary practices and psychological well-being for managing labour pain.
11) Medicine:
Medicine in the context of labour includes both conventional pharmacological treatments and traditional Ayurvedic practices. Both aim to provide effective pain relief and support during childbirth.
12) Tantra (Tamtra, Tantrism):
Tantra in Ayurveda refers to the methods or techniques. Prasooti Tantra involves the study and practice of childbirth and women's health, detailing management strategies for each stage of labour.
13) Apara:
Apara refers to the placenta. The process of labour is said to be incomplete without its expulsion, a crucial part of the third stage of Prasava. Proper management of Apara Patana (placental delivery) is vital.
14) Ashtanga (Astanga, Ashtan-anga):
Ashtanga refers to the eight branches of Ayurveda, including Ashtanga Sangraha and Ashtanga Hridaya, which are important texts that describe medical practices, including Prasava, from diagnostic techniques to treatment protocols.
15) Roga:
Roga means disease. In the context of Prasava Tantra and Stree Roga, it refers to ailments affecting women's health, including difficulties and complications during labour. Ayurvedic principles provide guidelines for managing such Rogas.
16) Adhobhaga (Adhas-bhaga, Adho-bhaga, Adhobhoga):
Adhobhaga refers to the lower part of the body. During labour, heaviness and pain in the Adhobhaga are significant symptoms indicating the progress of childbirth.
17) Knowledge:
Knowledge about Prasava in Ayurveda is comprehensive but less known. Research aims to validate Ayurvedic principles through scientific studies, ensuring evidence-based applications for improving maternal and fetal outcomes.
18) Avastha:
Avastha means stages. Prasava Avastha in Ayurveda refers to the different stages of labour, detailed by Acharyas like Sushruta, Charaka, and Kashyapa, providing a structured understanding of the childbirth process.
19) Praseka:
Praseka refers to excessive salivation, a symptom explained in the context of labour. It is one of the signs indicating the onset of childbirth as per Ayurvedic texts.
20) Patana:
Patana refers to the expulsion or descent, particularly of the placenta (Apara Patana) in the context of Prasava. This completes the third stage of labour, ensuring that the childbirth process is finalized.
21) Nature:
Nature in the context of labour signifies the natural process of childbirth, emphasizing minimal intervention and the innate physiological mechanisms guiding this experience, as outlined in both Ayurveda and conventional medicine.
22) Aruci:
Aruchi refers to anorexia or loss of appetite. It is one of the symptoms observed during the stages of labour, indicating the body's stress and hormonal changes.
23) Basti:
Basti in Ayurveda often refers to the pelvic region or urinary bladder. During labour, pain in the Basti area is notable and indicates the descent of the fetus, contributing to the childbirth process.
24) Bheda:
Bheda means splitting or piercing pain. It is one of the sensations described in Ayurveda that a woman may experience during the stages of Prasava, particularly in the genital area.
25) Ruja:
Ruja means pain. In the context of Prasava, Ruja is a significant symptom, encompassing various types and intensities of pain experienced during different stages of labour.
26) Detachment:
Detachment in labour refers to the process where the fetus and placenta detach from the uterus. Ayurvedic texts describe how this detachment leads to childbirth, an essential stage in Prasava.
27) Karnataka:
Karnataka, a state in India, is home to several institutes and scholars dedicated to the study of Ayurveda, including those focusing on Prasooti Tantra & Stree Roga. It contributes significantly to Ayurvedic research and education.
28) Gujarat:
Gujarat, another state in India, hosts numerous Ayurvedic institutes and scholars contributing to the research and practice of Prasooti Tantra & Stree Roga, exploring traditional methods for managing labour.
29) Kukshi (Kuksi):
Kuksi refers to the abdominal region. Kukshi Shaithilya, or the loosening of the abdomen, is a symptom associated with the onset of labour.
30) Harita:
Harita is an ancient Ayurvedic scholar who described Prasava and its causes, including Garbha Vaasa Vairaagya (aversion to remaining in the womb), elucidating the natural triggers for childbirth.
31) Moksha (Moksa):
Moksha in the context of Prasava means liberation. Specifically, Garbhamoksha refers to the fetus's liberation from the womb, a critical phase in the childbirth process.
32) Mukta:
Mukta means released or liberated. In the context of labour, it refers to the release of the fetus from the womb, initiating the process of childbirth.
33) Klama:
Klama refers to exhaustion or fatigue. During Prasava, a woman experiences Klama due to the intense physical exertion and stress associated with labour.
34) Shrava (Srava):
Srava refers to discharge. In Prasava, vaginal discharge, particularly the release of the mucus plug mixed with blood, is a sign of the commencement of labour.
35) India:
India is the origin of Ayurveda and is home to extensive research and practice in Prasava (labour) management through traditional Ayurvedic methods, integrating ancestral knowledge with contemporary practices.
36) Shiras (Siras, Siro, Shirash):
Shiro refers to the head. In the context of Prasava, turning the Shiro (head) of the fetus is critical during delivery, allowing it to align and descend correctly through the birth canal.
37) Birth:
Birth is the culmination of Prasava, involving the delivery of the baby from the mother's womb. It marks the completion of the physiological and psychological processes discussed in Ayurveda.
38) Yoga:
Yoga, integrated with Ayurveda, is used during pregnancy and labour to ease pain, manage stress, and improve overall well-being, making the childbirth experience smoother and more holistic.
39) Kati:
Kati refers to the waist or lower back. During Prasava, intense pain in the Kati region is a common symptom, indicating labour progress and requiring appropriate management.
40) Meat soup:
Meat soup is recommended in Ayurveda during labour for its nutritional benefits, particularly in strengthening and sustaining the pregnant woman through the physical exertion of childbirth.
41) Ashtangasamgraha (Astangasamgraha, Astangasangraha, Ashtanga-samgraha, Ashtanga-sangraha, Ashtangasangraha):
Ashtanga-sangraha is an authoritative Ayurvedic text by Vagbhata, which describes the stages and management of Prasava, integrating comprehensive medical insights into childbirth practices.
42) Ashtangahridaya (Astangahrdaya, Ashtanga-hridaya):
Ashtanga-hridaya, another critical Ayurvedic text by Vagbhata, elaborates on Prasava, offering detailed guidelines on managing labour based on traditional, holistic principles.
43) Shalyatantra (Salyatantra, Shalya-tantra, Shalyatamtra):
Shalya-tantra is a branch of Ayurveda focusing on surgical practices but also encompasses techniques relevant to childbirth, including Ayurvedic interventions for managing labour pain and complications.
44) Perception:
Perception of pain during labour varies among women. Factors influencing this perception are crucial in both conventional and Ayurvedic approaches to tailor individual pain management strategies.
45) Discussion:
Discussion in the context of this study aims to compare and integrate Ayurvedic and conventional medical approaches to Prasava, emphasizing holistic management for improved maternal and child outcomes.
46) Irritation:
Irritation of the nerves and tissues, particularly during the descent and crowning of the fetus, is a significant contributor to the pain experienced in Prasava.
47) Vankshana (Vanksana, Vakshana, Vaksana, Vamkshana):
Vankshana refers to the groin. Pain in the Vankshana region during labour is an indicator of the progression, highlighting the physical changes and stress in the body during childbirth.
48) Prajanana:
Prajanana refers to childbirth or the act of giving birth. Prasavakalaabhimata is a term used for the stages of childbirth.
49) Lightning:
Lightning in the context of Prasava refers to the sensation of the fetal head descending into the pelvis, relieving pressure on the mother's diaphragm and indicating the onset of labour.
50) Bandhana (Bamdhana):
Bandhana refers to binding or pressure. During labour, the term Muktahrudayabandhana describes the sensation of pressure being relieved from the chest or diaphragm.
51) Vibandha:
Vibandha means obstruction or binding. The term Naadi Vibandha Mukti refers to the loosening or detachment of the umbilical cord, facilitating the process of labour.
52) Badhirya:
Badhirya means deafness. Untimely bearing down efforts during labour can lead to complications like Badhirya or other distress conditions for the fetus.
53) Samgraha (Sangraha):
Sangraha means collection or compilation. Ashtanga Sangraha is a comprehensive Ayurvedic text covering various aspects of health, including Prasava (labour).
54) Bhedana:
Bhedana means splitting pain, which is experienced by women during labour due to the stretching and tearing of tissues in the genital area.
55) Hridaya (Hrdaya):
Hridaya refers to the heart or chest area. During labour, the term Muktahrudaya refers to the sensation of pressure being relieved from the chest, an indication of the fetus's descent.
56) Parshva (Parsva):
Parshva refers to the flanks. Pain in the Parshva region during labour is commonly experienced due to the physical strain of childbirth.
57) Purisha (Purisa):
Purisha refers to the bowels or stools. During Prasava, pressure on the intestines can lead to frequent bowel movements.
58) Avasada:
Avasada means depression or sinking. Kukshi Avasada in Ayurveda refers to the dropping of the abdomen as the fetus descends, indicating the onset of labour.
59) Vakshas (Vaksas, Vakshash):
Vakshas refers to the chest. The term Vimuktabandhatva of Vakshas indicates relief of diaphragmatic pressure during the early stages of labour.
60) Mantra (Mamtra):
Mantra refers to sacred utterances or incantations. During Prasava, chanting mantras is recommended in Ayurveda to create a positive, supportive environment for the birthing process.
61) Vedana:
Vedana means pain. It is a critical aspect of Prasava, where various types of pain are described and managed through Ayurvedic techniques.
62) Shalya (Salya):
Shalya refers to surgical methods. Shalya-tantra includes Ayurvedic surgical practices relevant to managing childbirth complications and ensuring a safe delivery.
63) Karana:
Karana means cause. In the context of Prasava, Karana refers to factors triggering labour, such as Kaala (time) and Naadi Vibandha Mukti (detachment of the umbilical cord).
64) Vaksha (Vaksa):
Vaksha means the chest. In Prasava, the relief from pressure or binding around the chest area is an early sign of labour.
65) Desire:
Desire in the context of labour refers to Anannabhilasha, the lack of desire to eat, a symptom indicating the onset of labour.
66) Mukti:
Mukti means liberation or release. In Prasava, Naadi Mukti refers to the release of the umbilical cord, a crucial step in the childbirth process.
67) Bhava:
Bhava means nature or being. In Ayurveda, Swabhava refers to the natural progression of labour, emphasizing minimal intervention.
68) Sukha:
Sukha means ease or comfort. Sukhaprasava refers to a smooth and uncomplicated labour, aligning with Ayurvedic principles of natural childbirth.
69) Shula (Sula):
Shula means pain. In the context of labour, it describes the various painful sensations including Jaghanashula (pain in the pelvis), experienced during childbirth.
70) Gatra:
Gatra means body or limbs. Gatra Sampurnata refers to the complete development of the fetus, which triggers the onset of labour.
71) Bhuta:
Bhuta means entity or being. In Prasava, the term Bhuta is used metaphorically to describe the fetus's role and actions during birth.
72) Ayus (Ayush):
Ayush refers to life or longevity. In the context of childbirth, Ayurveda aims to ensure both maternal and neonatal Ayush through comprehensive care and management.
73) Blood:
Blood, or YoniSleshmasraava, refers to the expulsion of blood mixed with mucus from the cervix, indicating the commencement of labour.
74) Bahu:
Bahu means many or excess. The term Bahu Mutrata refers to increased urination, a symptom that occurs during the stages of labour.
75) Bali:
Bali refers to one of the authors, Yogitha Bali M.R, contributing to the research on Prasava (labour) in Ayurveda.
[Note: The above list is limited to 75. Total glossary definitions available: 82]
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