The Sanskrit term Su Praja means “Healthy Progeny.” Ayurveda compares the birth of a healthy child to planting a tree, which requires the correct season, healthy seeds, fertile soil, and adequate watering. In this context, the seeds stand for healthy sperm and ovum, the soil for a strong uterus, the ideal season for a woman’s fertile period, and watering refers to the nutrition of the growing fetus. Environmental factors also play a part in diseases, even though genetic factors clearly play a role. This emphasizes the importance of the Preconception care philosophy of Ayurveda, which states that “pregnancy should be by choice and not by surprise.”
Prior to conception, Ayurveda recommends that both potential parents prepare. The care given before conception, beginning at least two months before conception, is crucial in determining the Prakriti (body type) of the resulting child. A child with a balanced Prakriti is a product of healthy parents. It is imperative that the parents have excellent Ojas and that their Doshas (Vata-Pitta-Kapha) are in balance. Panchakarma is advised for both parents, along with aphrodisiac tonics afterward.
Modern infertility treatments such as IVF/IUI can be seamlessly integrated with Ayurvedic preconception care to maximize the likelihood of a healthy pregnancy and reduce the risk of congenital and genetic disorders as well as miscarriages.
