Infertility is defined as the inability to get pregnant (or to conceive) after 1 year of unprotected sex. Basically, Infertility is when a person cannot conceive after trying for a significant period. For women under 35, this period is usually one year of normal, unprotected sex. For women 35 and older, it's six months.
Infertility may affect both women and men and comes from various causes affecting any part of the reproduction process. In females, these processes include hormone production, egg maturation and release, and embryo implanting in the uterus. In males, the reason for infertility can be low or abnormal sperm production/function or blockages that prevent the delivery of sperm. Other conditions like injuries, long-term health problems, and even lifestyle choices are also factors responsible for male infertility.
Primary Infertility: Where a couple has never been able to conceive.
Secondary Infertility: Where individuals or couples can not conceive after having previously managed to conceive.
Unexplained Infertility: Infertility for which no cause has been found despite testing.
In Ayurveda, Infertility is approached differently. Ancient texts such as those of Susrutha state, four requirements for conception:
A problem with any of these can cause problems with fertility. For example, an imbalance in Ritu might influence when and how eggs are released. Problems with Kshethram such as malformations of the reproductive tract may prevent an embryo from implanting. Poor Ambu, or nutritional support may affect the sperm and ovum health. Lastly, defects in Beejam (the sperm or ovum itself) may prevent conception.
Awareness about these aspects of fertility can facilitate timely diagnosis and treatment of Infertility as per the traditional Ayurvedic wisdom.
There are a number of causes of Infertility which impact both men and women at various phases of the reproductive process. It's often a combination of factors that make it difficult to conceive despite repeated attempts.
Ovulatory Disorders: This includes polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can block the release of eggs.
Fallopian Tube Damage or Blockages: This can stop sperm from reaching the egg and it is usually caused by pelvic inflammation or endometriosis.
Uterine Conditions: Conditions such as fibroids or polyps that prevent the fertilised egg from implanting.
Age-Related Factors: Women lose both quantity and quality of eggs, especially after age 35.
Low Sperm Count or Quality: Lack of sufficient sperm or poor-quality sperm may make fertilisation difficult.
Sperm Delivery Blockages: Problems such as vas deferens blockages may prevent sperm from being ejaculated properly.
Erectile Dysfunction: Problems obtaining or maintaining an erection may also prevent conception.
Lifestyle Factors: Smoking, excessive alcohol intake and obesity can affect fertility in men.
Genetic Disorders: Fertility can be affected by some genetic conditions in both men and women.
Environment Toxins: Reproductive health may be influenced by exposure to pesticides, heavy metals and other contaminants.
Stress: High levels of emotional stress can affect hormones and fertility.
Some people do not realise they’re facing Infertility until they attempt to conceive. Recognising these Infertility symptoms early may help couples seek timely medical advice and support.
The most noticeable symptoms of Infertility in women are:
Varying lengths between periods or skipping months altogether could signal hormonal imbalances affecting ovulation.
Extreme cramps and pelvic pain during menstruation could suggest endometriosis, an ailment which impacts fertility.
Unusual heavy or light bleeding during periods.
Absence of menstruation (known as amenorrhea) could indicate Infertility.
Examples are skin issues, weight gain, facial hair growth and hair loss or thinning on the head.
Changes in Sexual Desire: Decreased libido may be associated with hormonal problems that may also affect fertility.
Erection / Ejaculation Problems: Performance difficulties can impact the ability to conceive.
Pain, Swelling or Lumps in the Testicles: These symptoms may indicate underlying problems with sperm production or health.
Small, Firm Testicles: This might be an indication of a medical condition affecting sperm count.
Inability to Conceive: This is the most common indicator of Infertility, i.e., if a couple can not conceive after a year (or six months if the woman is over 35) of trying.
Recurrent Miscarriages: Women who experience multiple miscarriages may have Infertility problems.
Jiva Ayurveda offers holistic Ayurvedic treatment of Infertility using evidence-based Ayurveda. The treatment plans are customised to target the very root causes of the disease, and instead of just treating symptoms, they focus on holistic healing, balance and stability in totality.
HACCP certified Ayurvedic medicines: Scientifically created blends to restore balance in your body and support emotional health.
Yoga, Meditation & Mindfulness: Gentle practices to relax your body, enhance your mental health and improve quality of life.
Ayurvedic Therapies: Treatments include Panchakarma and soothing massages to detox the body and promote emotional balance.
Diet & Lifestyle Guidance: Expert tips to make changes in your eating and daily routine for better health and wellness.
Ayurveda provides a number of herbal remedies for managing Infertility, a condition that affects many couples worldwide. These herbs are considered useful for their natural properties in supporting and improving reproductive health in both men and women.
Here are some important medicines traditionally used for Infertility treatment in Ayurveda:
Shatavari (Asparagus Racemosus): Shatavari is known as the "Queen of Herbs" in Ayurveda for supporting hormonal balance, menstruation cycles and fertility in women.
Ashwagandha (Withania Somnifera): This adaptogenic herb is believed to reduce stress, increase vitality and regulate the hormones necessary for good fertility.
Gokshura (Tribulus Terrestris): Gokshura can also improve sperm count and motility, especially for male Infertility treatment.
Shilajit: A mineral-rich resin that promotes vitality and improves reproductive health and energy levels in both men and women.
Vidarikand (Pueraria Tuberosa): It helps nourish the female reproductive organs and is especially supportive in enhancing fertility.
Kapikacchu (Mucuna Pruriens): This Ayurvedic herb benefits male fertility by improving sperm quality and testosterone production.
Lodhra (Symplocos Racemosa): This herb helps balance the hormones and regulate menstrual cycles, supporting female reproductive health.
Guduchi (Tinospora Cordifolia): Guduchi is an immune-modulating and antioxidant herb that supports complete reproductive health.
Triphala: A classic Ayurvedic blend that helps in detoxification and digestion, thus supporting overall well-being for better reproductive health.
Bala (Sida Cordifolia): Used for fertility treatment, this herb is known to strengthen and nourish the reproductive system.
Mucuna Pruriens (Kawach): This herb can help increase libido and sperm count, which is useful for male fertility.
Safed Musli: An aphrodisiac used for treating impotence, early ejaculation and decreased sperm count.
Kesar, Garlic, Long Pepper, Lavanga: These spices and herbs are known to increase libido and are a major component of Ayurvedic fertility treatment.
Nutmeg, Chandana: These can help prevent premature ejaculation for healthier sexual function.
No, female masturbation does not cause Infertility. This is a normal activity which doesn't damage the reproductive organs or their functions.
Infertility generally starts to worsen after age 35 in women as the quality and quantity of eggs decrease.
Yes, lifestyle modifications such as maintaining a healthy weight, quitting smoking, reducing stress and exercising regularly could boost fertility.
Ayurvedic diagnosis of Infertility involves taking a detailed personal and medical history, physical examination and assessing dietary habits and lifestyle for dosha imbalances.
No, Infertility affects men and women almost equally. It may be due to male factors or female factors or issues with both partners.
Couples under 35 should try for a year and those over 35 should seek help after six months.
Although Infertility isn't caused by stress alone, it may worsen the factors that make conceiving more difficult by affecting hormones and overall health.
As per Ayurveda, stress reduction and fertility enhancement practices include yoga, meditation and pranayama (breath control).
Yes, a balanced diet containing fruits, vegetables, whole grains and lean proteins can support fertility by providing required nutrients and balancing the body’s doshas.
The process begins with purification and detoxification of the body through Panchakarma, followed by rejuvenation with specific herbs and dietary modifications.
Yes, Ayurveda provides specific Infertility treatments and herbal medicines for both male and female Infertility issues separately.
Mental and emotional health can considerably impact fertility. Ayurveda stresses holistic health, including emotional and mental balance for improving reproductive health.
Ayurveda suggests regular detoxification, eating right, managing stress and living according to natural circadian rhythms for good reproductive health.
The treatment is most effective when both partners are healthy and before age 35 for women, due to higher egg quantity and quality.
