A critical study of Artavavaha Srotas w.s.r. to Vandhyatva (infertility)

Abstract

The Moola of Artavavaha Srotas are Artavavahi Dhamani and Garbhashaya as per Sushruta. Artavavaha Srotas shows quite similarities with female reproductive system explained in modern medical science. The health of a female starts in the foetal stage itself, which describes the measures to yield a healthy child. Just as the river is cleansed by its flow the women are purified by the menstrual flow. That is the reason for the non-susceptibility of women to many diseases. The regimens to be followed during menstrual and post-menstrual periods are well advocated in Ayurveda. Disregard to these regimens is the leading cause for many of the gynecological and systemic diseases in women. Anatomical defects of the reproductive system could be one of the commonest causes of bad obstetric history. As per ayurveda, important factors for conception are considered as Ritu (fertile period), Kshetra (uterus and reproductive organs), Ambu (Proper nutrient fluid) and Bija and also normalcy of Hrdaya (Psychology). From the time immemorial the phenomenon of infertility was prevalent throughout the world and this may persist till the human race exists. Failure to achieve conception by a couple within one year is termed as infertility. The historical importance of Stri Vandhyatva and a comparative study of Nidan, Samprapti, Lakshana, Chikitsa etc. compiled from various Granthas like Harita Samhita etc. are being presented in this study. One in every four couples in developing countries had been found to be affected by infertility. In India alone many women are suffering from infertility. The major causes are including male factor such as azoospermia, hypospadias, female factors such as such as peritoneal factor, tubal factor, ovarian factor, cervical factor. Sometimes unexplained causes are also explained. So, this article contents about the importance of Artavavaha Srotas in causing Vandhyatava, general awareness and clinically used various treatment modalities as per Ayurveda for female infertility has been explained.