Abstract

MANAGEMENT OF PUERPERAL DEPRESSION ACCORDING TO AYURVEDA: A CASE STUDY

Dr. Veena Ajay Patil* and Dr. Janabai Shrimant Sargar

Abstract

A women who has just given birth to a child followed by expulsion of the placenta is called Sutika.[1] Puerperal depression is considered as a psychiatric disorder having prevalence rate is 10% to 15% among puerperal mothers,[2] applying an effective approach is essential. In recent times there has been an increase in obstetrics and neonatal complications. Because of changing times, every pregnancy is precious for the mother and thus she becomes very anxious about it pregnancy which may lead to development of symptoms like depression, mood swings, sleep disturbance, irritation, etc. Thus for treatment of postnatal depression we can use the basic principles, traditional drugs and various Paricharyas (regimens) mentioned in Ayurveda. Among these regimens Sutika Paricharya is one of them we can follow to treat and counsel the mother and help her maintain a good mental health and tackle various Manovaha Vikaras.

Keywords: Sutika, Sutika Manasroga, Puerperium, Postnatal blues.