According to Ayurveda, conception is the result of factors like healthy sperm, healthy ovum, and also a healthy uterus. Reproductive health depends on the health of the reproductive tissue known as Shukra dhatu in both men and women. In women the Shukra tissue is responsible for the creation of ovum as part of the menstrual cycle and in men the semen formation resulting from sexual stimulation. It is therefore important for both parents to maintain optimum health by getting rid of toxins and nourishing the reproductive tissues to be able to produce healthy progeny.
Difficulty in Getting Pregnant
The infertility in men may be due to low sperm count, sperm blockage low sperm motility and injury or chronic disease.
If a woman fails to conceive after one year of regular sexual union without using contraceptive it can be considered as a problem. Both men and women may have the problem of infertility due to various reasons. This condition not only affects the physical wellness of the couple but also affects their emotional and social life.
The reasons for female infertility may be ovulation disorders, diminished ovarian reserve and low levels of progesterone etc. The menstrual cycle is of three phases namely Vata, Pitta and Kapha. Blockage of energy happens at Vata phase. This can be balanced by the use of Aloe Vera, Ginger or Saffron, Rose water, fennel seeds tea and regular massage etc.
General causes of infertility
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When the reproductive tissues do not get enough nourishment due to improper digestion, malnourishment or due to obstruction by toxins. Detoxing procedures like Panchakarma is recommended for both parents to be.
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Consumption of hot and spicy food may lead to destruction of Shukra due to aggravation of pitta dosha leading to impotency
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Forcible sex
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Overindulgence in sexual behavior can lead to impotency known as Shukrakshaya.
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Infection or trauma of reproductive tissues can weaken them
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Suppressing sexual urge for too long leading to obstruction of semen known as Veeryaavarodha
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Impotency in males can be acquired by birth
Ayurvedic Treatment for Getting Pregnant
Ayurvedic treatment is on the lines of knowing the body constitution of the couple, remove obstructions and strengthen the organs and making the nervous system relaxed to create a favorable condition for pregnancy. To achieve this, it should be ensured that the digestive fire should be strong and the nervous system is calm and relaxed and the couple enjoys a loving relationship.
Preparing for pregnancy is like preparing the ground for planting seeds. Similarly the mother should be completely healthy to be able to protect and nourish the fetus. Ayurveda therefore recommends a holistic treatment that includes herbal medicines, healthy diet, lifestyle modifications, massage, yoga, breathing exercises and meditation etc.
Many nutritional foods that have the power to enhance the quality of the sperm are recommended for both men and women according to their dosha type. They are almonds, milk, saffron, walnuts, sesame seeds, pumpkin seeds, honey and ghee. Ashwagandha is the tonic for vata types and improves the sperm quality as well as quantity. Shatavari works as a tonic to balance pitta dosha. Punarnava is the herb recommended for Kapha types.
Ayurvedic preparations known as Rasayana can help in rejuvenating the body and mind which is an essential condition for getting pregnant.