Infertility management includes a holistic approach, which includes diet management, lifestyle changes, stress management and attending to the factors responsible for infertility in both male and female partners. Ayurveda alerts us on the causative factors for infertility.
Ayurveda discusses several important concepts related to producing a healthy baby, including Matruhtah (maternal influence), Pitruh (paternal influence), Atmatah (the self or soul), Satva (mental clarity and purity), Sathmya (adaptation to food and environment), and Rasathaha (the essence of taste and nourishment).
In addition to these, some other factors must be considered.
- Aaharaja (Diet factors): Vata vitiating diets like Katu (spicy) foods.
- Vihaaraja (Activity related): unhealthy lifestyle which causes a hike in Vata dosha like Ratri jagarana (staying awake at night), excessive intercourse, smoking, alcoholism, etc
- Kaalaja (Improper time): untimely intercourse.
- Balaja (Loss of strength): factors affecting general health like chronic diseases, malnutrition, autoimmune disease, etc.
The interesting fact is that Ayurveda specifically mentions that these factors can contribute to secondary infertility as well.
सौमनस्यं गर्भधारणानाम् ।
Cha. Su. 25:40
In many cases of unexplained infertility, stress can significantly affect a person's ability to conceive. This stress can lead to a decrease in sexual desire, hormonal imbalances, and lower quality of eggs or sperm.
Ayurveda also, talks about a condition called Maituna asahishnutha or vaginismus. This condition involves involuntary tightening or spasms of the muscles around the vagina, which can make sex painful and difficult. While it's not a direct cause of infertility, it can contribute to challenges in getting pregnant.
Modern science explains that vaginismus can occur as a response to anxiety or past trauma related to sexual experiences. This can lead to stress and problems in sexual relationships, which is something Ayurveda also acknowledges.