The Role Of Garbhasamskara In Pre-Conceptional Care And Fertility Enhancement: An Evidence-Based Review

Abstract

Infertility is a pervasive global health challenge, impacting approximately 10–15% of couples worldwide, translating to an estimated 48 million couples affected globally. This condition precipitates significant physical, mental, and financial distress, often compounded by the high costs and invasive nature of modern Assisted Reproductive Technologies (ART). Modern medicine generally defines infertility as the inability to conceive after 12 months of regular, unprotected coitus. Ayurveda, however, conceptualizes infertility, or Vandhyatva, more broadly, encompassing difficulties in conceiving naturally, recurrent miscarriage (Garbhasrava), and stillbirths (Mrutvatsa).[i]

The limitations and emotional toll associated with conventional treatments have led to a rising utilization of complementary and alternative medicine (CAM), with reports indicating that nearly 29% of couples seeking fertility treatment integrate a CAM modality. This trend underscores a clinical need for holistic, systemic preparatory approaches that address the root causes of reproductive dysfunction rather than solely focusing on symptomatic management or technological bypass. The Ayurvedic preparatory system, Garbhasamskara, offers such a paradigm.[ii]

1. [i] (2008). Charaka Samhita (P. V. Sharma, Ed. and Trans.). Chaukhambha Orientalia.
2. [ii] Dhawan, V., & Sharma, A. (2018). Yoga/meditation modulates oxidative stress and improved sperm transcripts in recurrent pregnancy loss. Indian Journal of Medical Research, 148(2), 220–229.