GARBHINI PARICHARYA: ANTENATAL CARE IN AYURVEDA

Abstract

Systematic supervision (examination and advice) of a woman during pregnancy is called garbhini paricharya (antenatal care). Supervision should be of a regular and periodic nature and according to the need of an individual. The care should start from the beginning of pregnancynd till the birth of child. Antenatal care comprises of careful history taking and examinations and after that, proper advice given to the pregnant woman according to the need and complaint. The proper garbhini paricharya would result in the proper development of the fetus, its delivery, the health of the mother and thus her ability to withstand the strain of labour and have an eventless post-natal phase.  Garbhini paricharya have described monthly dietary regimen and living style for whole pregnancy, specific water for bathing during pregnancy, amulet for pregnant woman etc. All of these advices are done with the aim to ensure normal pregnancy and uncomplicated labor  with  delivery of a healthy baby from a healthy mother. Dietetics and mode of life which are contraindicated during pregnancy are known as garbhopaghatakara bhavas. Garbhopaghatakara bhavas should be avoided as well as uses of garbhasthapaka drugs is beneficial for the fetus.