Vandhyatva--a medico historical study.

ABSTRACT

As per Ayurvĕda, important factors for conception are considered as rtu (fertile period), Kşĕtra (uterus and reproductive organs), Ambu (Proper nutrient fluid) and Bĭja (sukra-sŏnita) and also normalcy of Hŗdaya (Psychology). Abnormality of properly functioning Văyu and Satbhavăs (mătŗja, pitŗja, atma, satva, sătmaya and Rasa), any one of these causes infertility (Vandhyatva). From the time immemorial the phenomenon of infertility was prevalent through out the world and this may persist till the human race exists. Every human being has inherent, intense desire to continue his (one's) own race; to become a mother is one of the most cherished desires of every woman. Failure to achieve conception by a couple of mature age, having normal coitus during appropriate period of menstrual cycle regularly, at least for one year of their conjugal is termed as infertility. The historical importance of strĭ vandhyatva and a comparative study regarding its Nidăna, Samprăpti, Lakşaņa, Chikitsă etc compiled from various Granthăs are being presented in this paper.