Ayurveda In Pregnancy

Ayurveda says if a pregnant woman is taken care of as advised, she will give birth to a child who does not have any diseases - a healthy, physically strong, radiant, and well-nourished baby who is superior to all the race. Pregnancy is not merely a physiological process; it is a great responsibility for both father and mother. The mental and physical status of a mother is important for a healthy pregnancy.

There are certain guidelines of regimen and diet from the inception of the child till birth.

Regimen

Always try to be in a happy mood. Be clean, neat, and well-dressed; always wear simple, comfortable clothes.

Have proper sleep, go to bed early, and avoid sleep during morning hours.

Engage in peaceful and benedictory activities like- listening to music, reading, craft works, etc.

Do not indulge in anger, fright, or agitating emotions.

Traveling on rough roads and long-distance travel should be avoided.

An oil bath is advised.

Beholding natural urges should be avoided.

Diet

Ayurveda gives a detailed explanation of the diet that should be followed in each trimester. As a general rule, greater care should be taken during the first 3 months of pregnancy and after the completion of the 7th month.

During the first trimester, stress is laid on stabilizing the pregnancy and nurturing the uterine bed through Rasa and Rakta dhatus (blood tissues). The embryo gets nourishment directly by percolation; hence, more liquid substances like juicy fruits, coconut water, and milk are advocated.

In first month sipping cold milk and maintaining a light diet is good, whereas in second month the intake of milk is indicated with certain herbs like Pueraria, Asparagus, Liquorice (sweet wood), Bacopa, etc.

By the end of the third month, the body parts of the fetus become differentiated, and sensory perceptions and motor reactions start developing. The heart starts beating and is said to express the desires through the mother's blood. This is the period when a woman craves certain foods/flavors. The needs of the mother and developing baby are identical. Hence, Ayurveda recommends that her cravings be fulfilled as far as possible. If not contraindicated, Bacopa helps in calming the nerves and sustaining the pregnancy.

From the fourth to seventh month, drugs that strengthen the uterine muscles and nourish the embryo are advised, like winter cherry (Withania somnifera) and Indian Tinospora. Also fruits like oranges, mangoes, apples, and carrots. Indian gooseberry and leafy vegetables help in providing nourishment to uterine tissues.

During the seventh month, there is a chance of itching and irritation in the abdominal region due to stretching of abdominal muscles. This should be treated by taking sips of infusion of berries or butter medicated with Indian madder. External application of neem and basil is also effective.

From the seventh month onwards, there should be less fat and salt in the diet. It is advisable to take thin gruel, green gram, etc. in your diet.

In short, fully cooked, easily digestible food with proteins and vitamins is ideal during the pregnancy period.

A proper diet and regimen will help Mother to have a happy pregnancy and the baby to lead a healthy life in the future.

Tags: Ayurveda, Pregnancy