Abstract

POSTPARTUM CARE (SUTIKA PARICHARYA) AS A PREVENTIVE STRATEGY FOR WOMAN’S LONG-TERM HEALTH

Aatmika Singh*, Akshita Gangwar

.

Abstract

Introduction- Postpartum care known as Sutika Paricharya in Ayurveda, is a structured 40-60 day regimen followed in India for centuries. While traditionally rooted in holistic principles, its core practices are increasingly finding resonance with modern preventive medicine. The classical Ayurvedic regime for the Sutika paricharya is to offers a structured bio-psycho-social framework aimed at restoring Agni, pacifying Vata, Supporting lactation, and preventing long- term morbidity. This article examines the potential of an evidence-based, integrated approach to postpartum care, aligning ancient wisdom with contemporary science, as a crucial preventive strategy for a woman's long-term physical and mental well-being. Sutika Paricharya (the care of the Sutika, or postpartum woman) emerges not merely as a cultural tradition, but as a powerful preventive healthcare strategy. Sutika Paricharya, the structured 40-60 day postpartum regimen in Ayurveda, is a holistic protocol designed to promote maternal recovery after childbirth. Its principles of managed rest (Sutika Avaṣṭha), specific diet (Ahara), oleation (Snehana), fomentation (Swedana), and medicinal formulations (Ausadha) aim not only at short-term recuperation but also at preventing long-term morbidity (Sutika Roga). While anecdotally revered, a systematic scientific validation of its long-term preventive efficacy is lacking. Aims and Objective- To evaluate the efficacy of a standardized Sutika Paricharya protocol in preventing long-term physical and mental health disorders in postpartum women. Methodology- A thorough review of literature related to Sutika paricharya in Ayurvedic compendia was performed. Chapters consolidating the concepts from Bruhatrayi and other relevant Samhitas have been sorted and included in the manuscript. Result- Sutika Paricharya as described in Ayurveda classics is unique and specific. So by following proper Ayurvedic Sutika Paricharya would result in helps to restore her health and revert to normal pre pregnant state and faster recovery of women in terms of her strength and health. Discussion- Sutika paricharya paying close attention to all the details needed to preserve and replenish a women's health and leads to faster recovery in terms of strength and health.

Keywords: Sutika, Ahara, Sutika Paricharya, Samanya Sutikaparicharya, Vishishta Sutikaparicharya.