Sutika Paricharya - Post Natal Care in Ayurveda

Ayurveda gives importance to the care of women at every stage of life like during Rajasvala (during menstruation), Garbhini (during pregnancy) and Sutika (during puerperium). A postnatal period beginning immediately after the expulsion of placenta and extending up to 12 weeks, otherwise puerperium, puerperal period. In Ayurveda puerperial period is called Sutika Kala and postnatal care is named as Sutika Paricharya. During delivery due to loss of blood and other important Dhatus of body a Sutika becomes more prone to disease; therefore, she needs special and proper care which also ensures the healthy child to grow in a healthy way. Archaryas have explained 74 types of Sutika Roga which occurs due to improper Sutika Paricharya, Apatarpana, Vata Prakopa, Dhatu Ksheenata. Prognosis of Sutika Roga is incurable or difficult to cure as purifying measures are contraindicated in this stage. Sutika Paricharya includes the regimen that helps the women to regain her vitality and helps her body to revert back in pre-pregnant state. Three factors have been emphasized that is Dhatu Pratipurnata, Sharira Samavasthita, Sanchita Rudhira Yoni for which Acharyas have mentioned certain Ahara, Vihara, Aushadi, Yogasana, some Pathya and Apathya.