Role of Shodhana in pre-conception care

Abstract

Pre-connectional care is the care of a woman before achieving pregnancy. In view of Ayurveda, the Garbhadhana Vidhi, use of Garbha Sthapana Aushadhas and Pumsavana Karma are some of the procedures which could be categorized under the topic of pre-conceptional care. The traditions of supporting and promoting pregnancy as well as the procedures which could be followed during preconceptional care have been clearly mentioned in Ayurvedic texts. Shodhana in pre-conception care are very widely and commonly practiced by Ayurvedic physicians that additionally provides benefit to the woman seeking to cleanse and renew her body in order to achieve successful conception. Shodhana during pre-conceptional period aims in getting a good progeny. The purpose is not only to purify the body but also it serves the purpose of Garbhashaya Shodhana where the healthy gametes after fertilization will get implanted. This will ensure the mother to remain healthy and stable throughout her pregnancy without much complications and ensuring delivery with minimal aid. As the purpose of Shodhana is to expel out the excessively aggravated Doshas, thus Doshas will be maintained in equilibrium and the body will give healthy response to the growing fetus. This article aims at achieving a healthy motherhood and healthy progeny with the help of Shodhana during preconceptional care.