Post Natal Care in Ayurveda
Post-delivery care, known as “Sutika Paricharya” is an important aspect of Ayurveda that focuses on the well-being of both the mother and the newborn during the postpartum period. The postnatal phase is called as Sutika Kala. It is an area in our classics where a lot of differences of opinions are there. Its duration varies from 12 days to six months, and some opines that the re-establishment of menstrual cycle is an endpoint of Sutika Kala .Total six months period is required to regain Raktadi dhatu to their original status following delivery. It has been mentioned in terms of Ahara (diet), Vihara (regimen) and Aushadha (medicines). A woman goes through various mental and physical stages after delivery. They should be treated with great vigilance and care during pregnancy and especially after delivery. It also aims to prevent any health issues in future and try to maintain balance during the time of rapid hormonal physical and emotional changes in a mother's life. The baby attains energy through the mother, so it can be difficult to balance the hormones after the delivery.Childbirth is not only draining, but also leads to elevated Vata dosha. As a result, the mother may experience digestive issues, such as acidity, bloating, indigestion etc .Some commonly employed Ayurvedic treatments for postnatal care: Abhyanga,swedanam,Veshtana,Vethu Kuli etc. After giving birth, a mother’s diet should be quite light. The mother needs to eat healthily. A healthy diet can provide mother energy and well-being, where as a poor diet can cause extreme exhaustion. The mother is advised to follow a nourishing and easily digestible diet. Warm, cooked, and well-spiced foods are recommended. Nutrient-rich foods like ghee, milk, grains, lentils, vegetables, and fruits are emphasized. A pure, well-balanced diet aids in the relaxation of vitiated Vata. Diet and lifestyle go hand in hand by nature during post natal period .Don’t work out during the postpartum period. Adopt proper hygienic habits to guarantee ideal genital and breast health. The recommendation is to pat dry after each vaginal wash. Take up walking and light exercise. This might promote blood flow and bowel movement.
