Pregnancy Care in Ayurveda

How To Detox Your Body Before Planning To Conceive?

• Before trying to conceive, it’s essential to detoxify your body.
• First, cut out toxins like alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs. These can damage your reproductive health and the health of your future baby.
• Next, focus on whole and easily digestible foods. Load up on organic fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and legumes. These provide antioxidants and nutrients to support fertility and foetal development.
• A diet rich in folic acid, zinc, calcium, magnesium, vitamin B, Omega 3 fatty acids, and iron that includes dark green leafy vegetables, plantain flower, plantain stem, banana, nuts, brown rice, whole wheat, ragi, black gram, milk, small fishes
• Avoid day sleep, starvation, and excess exercise.
• Strictly avoid coffee and all junk foods.
• Maintain cleanliness and positive mental health.
• Ensure good sleep
• Finally, stay hydrated () drink 8 to 10 glasses daily) and get light exercise like walking or yoga. Both boost circulation to your reproductive organs. Relax and limit stress that can influence your menstrual cycle and ovulation.

A healthy body and balanced mindset will increase your chances of conceiving quickly. Make these lifestyle changes at least 3-6 months before trying, and your body will be baby-ready in no time.

Ayurveda has some particular diet specifications and medicines for both males and females.

For male

• Milk and ghee processed with sweet substances
• Ashwagandha churna with milk
• Ashwagandha lehyam
• Milk processed with Kapickachhu, Ashwagandha, and Gokshura

For female

• Black gram and sesame oil, one tablespoon each
• Milk processed with Lakhmana
• Anardana with milk
• Barley and Ashwagandha
• Liquorice with milk and ghee

Which is The best Time to Conceive a Baby, According to Ayurveda?

The optimal time to increase your chances of getting pregnant is during ovulation. 

This is when an egg is released from one of your ovaries, travels down the fallopian tube, and can be fertilized by sperm. 

Ovulation typically occurs around day 14 of a woman’s menstrual cycle, but this can vary from cycle to cycle and woman to woman.

Some signs of ovulation to look for include:

• Changes in cervical mucus: Cervical mucus becomes clear, slippery, and stretchy during ovulation, helping sperm travel to the egg.
• Basal body temperature increase: Due to hormonal changes, your temperature may increase slightly, by about 0.5-1 degree, after ovulation.
• Positive ovulation predictor kit: Home ovulation kits check for a surge in luteinizing hormone, which triggers ovulation. A positive test indicates ovulation will likely occur within the next 12-24 hours.
• Mittelschmerz: Some women experience mild abdominal pain, cramps, or twinges around ovulation due to the egg being released from the ovary.

The window of opportunity for conception is small, about 3-5 days around ovulation. 

So, the best time to have intercourse is the day of ovulation and the two days before. 

This helps ensure viable sperm is present in the fallopian tubes to fertilize the egg once released. 

Also, avoid intercourse for a couple of days after ovulation to replenish sperm count. 

Understanding your cycle and watching for these signs will increase your chances of conceiving during the optimal window.

Common pregnancy care tips in Ayurveda

Follow these Ayurvedic tips for a healthy pregnancy:

• Eat a balanced diet of whole grains, beans, fresh fruits and vegetables. Focus on
• Drink plenty of warm water to stay hydrated. Add a squeeze of lemon for extra nourishment.
• Get light exercises like walking or gentle yoga. This enhances circulation and mood.
• Practice oil massage with coconut or sesame oil. This soothes the body and mind.
• Meditate or do pranayama (yogic breathing). This calms the mind and reduces stress.
• Use spices like turmeric, cumin, and ginger in your cooking. They have nourishing properties.
• Rest as much as possible, especially in the later months. Listen to your body’s needs.

What to avoid during pregnancy?

• Smoking or chewing tobacco
• Consuming carbonated beverages and alcohol, drugs, or cigarettes.
• Eating cooked food made with hydrogenated fat
• Sleeping immediately after eating any meal
• Washing vegetables after peeling 
• Lifting heavy objects or doing strenuous physical activities
• Heavy, acidic, spicy, or processed foods
• Suppressing your cravings

Recommended Ayurvedic therapies during pregnancy

Ayurveda recommends gentle therapies to support both mother and baby during pregnancy.

Abhyanga

Should be done on the body from 7th month. 

Ideal oil of choice on the body- Dhanwantharam taila.

Oil massages with coconut oil  help relax the muscles and relieve stress. 

Pichu 

Should be done in the 9th month.

 Oil-soaked cotton pads should be kept in the external vaginal orifice and lower abdomen. 

Pichu can be done for 15 to 20 minutes daily.

Pichu ensures laxity of vaginal and abdominal muscles and easy labor.

Snana (Herbal bath)

Boiled and cooled water should be used after the 7th month.

Water boiled with leaves of vilwa, neem, eranda leaves etc with sandal and vetiver.

Matravasti (Enema)

Should be done from 8th month only can be done with Dhanwanthara taila or sahacharadi taila.

It rectifies constipation, enables vata anulomana and aids in easy labour.

Yoga 

Yoga asanas like cat-cow, bridge, and seated twists are safe and help flexibility and strength. 

Practice tadasana, hasta uttanasana, katichakrasana, sukhasana, vajrasana, Ananda shayanasana, Balasana

Meditation and pranayama breathing exercises provide mental calm. These holistic techniques, combined with a balanced diet, nourish mother and baby naturally.

Ayurvedic herbs and medicines to be avoided during each stage of pregnancy

During pregnancy, some Ayurvedic herbs and medicines should be avoided for the health of both mother and baby.

First trimester (0-3 months)

You are all familiar with these nutritious herbs, but you are supposed to avoid them during pregnancy. Here is the list and the reason for it.

1. Raw Papaya

Why? Raw papaya contains an enzyme called papain, which can induce uterine contractions that might lead to abortion. So, It’s better to avoid it, especially during the early stages of pregnancy.

2. Aloe Vera

Well, Aloe vera juice is found to be the best source of antioxidants, but similar to papaya, aloe vera contains aloin, an anthraquinone that acts as a laxative and has the potential to induce uterine contractions. So you should avoid that, too. 

Also, Aloe Vera is traditionally believed to cause pelvic hemorrhage, leading to a possible miscarriage.

4. Fennel and Fenugreek Seeds

Although these are known for their anti-diabetic properties, both can lead to uterine contractions. 

It’s okay to use them as spices in minimal amounts, but avoid them in medicinal amounts. 

Researchers have proved their use to be linked to increased risks of congenital disabilities in both animals and people.

5. High Mercury Fish

Fish like Tuna, sharks, swordfish, and mackerel contain high levels of mercury, which can affect fetal brain development. 

So be careful while licking too much of your favorite fish curry.

6. Street Food

While it might be mouth-watering, street food can be unhygienic and cause infections.

7. Undercooked or Raw Eggs

Raw eggs contain harmful bacteria like salmonella, which can be dangerous during pregnancy.

8. Alcohol

Even in small amounts, alcohol can cause congenital disabilities. It’s best to avoid it altogether.

9. Caffeine

While you might be yelling for that morning cup of tea or coffee, high caffeine intake can lead to premature birth or low birth weight.

Diet During Pregnancy

The diet during pregnancy plays a vital role in the development of the fetus. Follow these diet tips in each trimester:

First Trimester

Milk and milk, that’s what you have to stick to. 

Some may need help to consume bland milk. 

Instead, you can go for lip-smacking liquid delicacies. Liquid foods are preferred during these days as your fetus is in its formative stage.

Phalasarpis, an ayurvedic medicated ghee, is also beneficial during this phase as it helps maintain pregnancy. 

If you feel vomiting, you can drink parched rice with sugar and water.

1st month:

Milk was medicated with Bala (Kurunthotti) in the first month.

In the 2nd month,

Milk was medicated with lakshmana (thiruthali) in the 3rd month.

Milk is medicated with bruhati (cheru vazhuthana and ven vazhuthana) to reduce vomiting sensation use. 

Second Trimester

You need to include more butter in your diet in the fourth month, and from the fifth and sixth month onwards, include medicated ghee, such as kalyanaka ghrita  , as it improves the foetus’s higher mental functions.

4th month: Milk medicated with Amshumathi (orila) as it promotes foetal growth

5th month: Milk medicated with Guduchi (Chittamruthu) as it prevents vata aggravation

6th month: Milk medicated with Nidigdhika (Putharichunda) as it reduces respiratory issues and also improves skin tone

Third Trimester

In the fourth month, include more ghee in your diet. From the fifth and sixth months onwards, include medicated ghee, such as dadimadi ghrita, as it prevents maternal anemia and improves the tone and complexion of the fetus. 

In the eighth month, consume sukha piassava ghrita, as it enables easy and less painful labor.

7th month: Milk medicated with barley as it is a diuretic

8th month: Milk medicated with Moorva (Perumkurumba) as it is a diuretic and laxative

9th month: Milk medicated with Shatavari as it has galactagogue and analgesic properties

The diet of pregnant women should be pleasing to the mind. It should be preferably liquid to semi-solid, sweet, and unctuous in nature. Milk, Rice, Ragi (Finger millet), Daliya (Crushed wheat), etc., are good.

Cooked food should include spices such as cumin seed and dry ginger powder for better digestion and assimilation.

Apart from a routine diet, if possible, Pregnant women should also include milk (minimum one glass-200 ml) or Ghee in their daily regimen as mentioned above.

General Diet Plan for Pregnant Women 

Breakfast: 

Ragi Dosa, Rice Roti, Ragi Roti, Dosa, Sambar, Coconut Chutney, Idli Sambar Chutney, Puttu (Steam Cake) Appam, Upma, Uthappam, Idiyappam, Puri and Curry, Chapati and Vegetable or egg curry, etc. with Milk

Lunch & Dinner:

Rice, Sambar, Aviyal, Mix Veg Curry, Chapati, Brinjal, Bottle Gourd Curry, Fish Curry, Chicken Curry, Fish Fry, etc.

Snacks and sweets:

Any steamed item, such as peanut chikki, sesame seeds, laddu, Rava Kesari, or ragi pancake.

Green Vegetables:

Palak, Amaranth, Moringa Leaves, Coriander, Mint, etc.

Fruits: 

Bananas, JackFruit, Oranges, Guava, Apples, Grapes, Mangoes, etc. Other Vegetables: carrots, Beans, Pumpkin, Cabbage, Drumsticks, Bitter Gurd, Beetroot, Potato, Brinjal, Parwal, etc.

Pulses:  

Whole unpolished Green Gram,  Red Lentils, Yellow Pigeon Peas, Green Peas, Bengal Gram, Black Gram, Soyabean, Moth Beans, etc.

Nuts: 

Groundnuts, Dried Coconut, Sesame, Watermelon seeds, Walnuts, Almonds etc.

Procedures and advices to keep mother and fetus healthy

To keep both the mother and fetus healthy during pregnancy, ayurveda recommends the following:

• Eat a balanced diet of fresh, whole foods like grains, legumes, vegetables, and fruits. Focus on warm, cooked foods rather than raw.
• Vitamin C-rich fruits like Gooseberries (Amla), Guava, and Orange should be included in the diet to improve iron absorption from plant foods.
• Add green leafy vegetables and other vegetables to your daily diet (e.g., Methi roti, Palak roti, Vegetable idli, Vegetable dosa)
• In case of nausea and vomiting, take small and frequent meals (4-6 times/day)
• Expose yourself to direct sunlight for at least 15 minutes to get sufficient vitamin D
• Supplementary nutrition from Anganwadi Centres and micronutrient supplements are available per the doctor’s advice.
• Add a variety of food items to your daily diet so that you can meet your daily requirement of all nutrients. 
• Consume green leafy vegetables, legumes, and nuts, as they are good sources of folic acid.
• Get plenty of rest and sleep, and take a good nap if needed. Pregnancy, especially in the later months, requires extra rest.
• Exercise regularly with gentle movements like walking, prenatal yoga, or swimming. This improves circulation and flexibility.
• Practice daily oil massage (abhyanga) and warm baths. These soothe the skin and muscles, reduce stress, and promote relaxation.
• Manage stress and emotions. Practice meditation and pranayama (yogic breathing), spend time in nature, and keep a positive mindset.
• Limit caffeine, sugar, and processed foods. These can aggravate doshas and deprive the foetus of nutrients.
• Quit smoking, drugs, and alcohol. These are harmful to the baby’s growth and development.
• Visit your doctor regularly. Get necessary checkups and tests to monitor the health of the baby.
• Spend quality time with loved ones. Social support from family and friends is essential during this transitional time.

Ayurvedic treatments for diseases during pregnancy 

When it comes to dealing with pregnancy discomforts, Ayurveda offers natural solutions. 

Nausea

It’s pretty standard during this phase.

While it can be uncomfortable, several Ayurvedic remedies can help alleviate this queasy feeling.

One highly effective remedy is drinking a mixture of ginger and lemon juice with a pinch of black salt. 

This combination is known to settle the stomach and reduce nausea.

You can also try sipping ginger tea or chewing on a small piece of fresh ginger to ease your symptoms.

In addition, Ayurveda recommends avoiding spicy and greasy foods, as they can aggravate nausea. Instead, opt for light meals that are easy to digest, such as soups, steamed vegetables, and plain rice.

Anorexia

Anorexia, or the loss of appetite, is another common concern during pregnancy. Many women may find it difficult to eat regular meals due to various factors like hormonal changes, increased sensitivity to smells, or feelings of nausea.

Ayurveda offers some effective remedies to help overcome anorexia and ensure proper nutrition for both the mother and baby. 

One such remedy is to include spices like cumin, ginger, and fennel in your meals, as they can stimulate your appetite.

Sipping herbal teas made from mint, chamomile, or lemon balm can also help improve digestion and promote a healthy appetite. 

Additionally, incorporating small, frequent meals throughout the day instead of large meals can be more manageable and aid in maintaining your appetite.

Certain herbs belonging to the class of Medhya drugs, such as Mandukaparni (Centella Asiatica), Brahmi (Bacopa monnieri), Jatamansi (Nordostachys jatamansi), and Yastimadhu (Glycyrrhiza glabra), should be used often as part of diet and lifestyle.

Vomiting

Vomiting is another common symptom that many pregnant women experience, especially during the first trimester. 

While it can be pretty unpleasant, there are ways to manage and minimize vomiting during pregnancy.

One helpful tip is to consume smaller meals throughout the day instead of three large ones. 

This can help prevent your stomach from becoming too full, triggering nausea and vomiting. 

Additionally, avoid spicy, greasy, and strong-smelling foods that may exacerbate your symptoms.

Finding relief through natural remedies can also be beneficial. Ginger, for example, has long been known for soothing an upset stomach. Try ginger tea, candies, or ale to relieve nausea and vomiting. 

It’s always a good idea to talk to your healthcare provider about any natural remedies you plan to use during pregnancy.

Avoid oily and spicy foods. Consume water boiled with parched rice, sugar, and coriander seeds.

Remember, if vomiting becomes severe and persistent, it’s essential to seek medical advice to ensure you and your baby receive proper care and support.

Headache

Headaches are another joint discomfort experienced during pregnancy, especially in the early stages. 

Hormonal changes, stress, dehydration, and fatigue can all contribute to headaches. 

Fortunately, there are steps you can take to manage and alleviate these pregnancy-induced headaches.

First and foremost, it’s crucial to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day. 

Dehydration can worsen headaches, so make it a point to keep a water bottle handy and sip on it regularly.

Next, relaxation techniques like deep breathing exercises or prenatal yoga can help relieve tension and stress that may be causing your headaches. 

Taking breaks, getting enough rest, and having a good sleeping routine can also help prevent headaches.

You can also try applying a paste of sandalwood and rosewater to your forehead. 

Essential oils like lavender, peppermint or eucalyptus can be soothing when inhaled or used in a cool compress. 

Dry mouth

Dry mouth is a common issue for many pregnant women. 

Hormonal changes, dehydration, and increased blood flow often cause it. 

While it may be uncomfortable, there are ways to manage and alleviate the symptoms of dry mouth.

One of the best ways to combat dry mouth is to stay hydrated. 

Drinking plenty of water throughout the day can help keep your mouth moist and prevent the uncomfortable feeling of dryness. 

Additionally, oil pulling with sesame oil is an excellent remedy for this. 

Avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption can also help alleviate dry mouth symptoms. Both caffeine and alcohol can dehydrate the body, exacerbating dryness.

Maintaining good oral hygiene is essential during pregnancy, especially with dry mouth. 

Brush and floss regularly, and consider using alcohol-free mouthwashes or rinses to keep your mouth moisturized.

Fever

Fever during pregnancy can be concerning, but it is essential to remember that it is your body’s way of fighting off infection. 

However, it is crucial to monitor your temperature and take appropriate steps to manage a fever for your and your baby’s health.

If you experience a fever, it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. 

They can guide you in the best course of action based on the severity of your symptoms and any underlying conditions you may have.

In the meantime, you can do a few things to control the infection, such as drinking herbal teas made with tulsi, dried ginger, peppercorns, cinnamon, and electrolyte-rich drinks.

Avoid using over-the-counter medications to reduce fever without consulting your healthcare provider first, as some medicines may not be safe for pregnancy. Your healthcare provider will be able to recommend safe options if necessary.

Anaemia

To prevent anemia during pregnancy, it is crucial to maintain a well-balanced diet rich in iron. 

Include foods like dried grapes, pomegranate, spinach, beetroot and dates, lean meats, poultry, fish, fortified cereals, dark leafy greens, and legumes in your meals as well as chyawanprash herbal jam. 

Consider incorporating vitamin C-rich foods like citrus fruits and tomatoes, as they can enhance iron absorption.

Your healthcare provider may also recommend iron supplements to meet your daily iron needs. 

However, taking these supplements as prescribed and avoiding consuming them with calcium-rich foods or beverages is essential, as they can inhibit iron absorption.

Adequate rest and exercise can also improve blood circulation and help prevent anemia. 

Ensure you prioritize self-care and seek support from your healthcare provider to manage anemia effectively and maintain a healthy pregnancy journey.

Edema

Edema, commonly known as swelling, is another common occurrence during pregnancy. 

It is caused by an increase in the amount of fluid your body retains to support your growing baby. 

This fluid often accumulates in your feet, ankles, and hands, leading to discomfort and tightness.

To manage edema during pregnancy, there are a few simple steps you can take. 

Firstly, try to elevate your legs whenever possible to promote blood circulation and reduce swelling. 

Avoid sitting or standing for prolonged periods, and take short walks to keep your body active.

Wearing comfortable and supportive shoes can also help alleviate edema. Opt for footwear with proper arch support and avoid high heels, as they can exacerbate swelling. 

Additionally, wearing compression stockings can provide relief by applying gentle pressure to reduce fluid buildup in your lower limbs.

Monitoring your salt intake and consuming a balanced diet of essential nutrients, including potassium and magnesium, can also help minimize edema. 

Stay well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water, and consider incorporating natural diuretic foods, such as cucumber and watermelon, into your meals.

While mild edema is common during pregnancy, excessive swelling accompanied by sudden weight gain and severe headaches could be a sign of preeclampsia. 

If you experience these symptoms, contacting your healthcare provider immediately for further evaluation and guidance is essential.

Acidity

Acidity and heartburn are common during pregnancy.

Consuming hot, spicy foods can cause acidity. Banana powder with milk might sort out this condition.

Diarrhea

Diarrhea during pregnancy can be caused by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, food sensitivities, or infections. 

Ayurveda suggests a balanced approach to resolve this issue by focusing on proper diet and lifestyle modifications.

One effective remedy is to consume cooked rice with yogurt and a pinch of ginger powder. 

This combination helps soothe the digestive system and relieve loose stools. 

Drinking ginger tea or herbal teas like chamomile or mint can also help ease symptoms.

Constipation

Constipation is One of the common issues faced by pregnant women is. 

Hormonal changes, dietary factors, or a sedentary lifestyle can cause it. 

Ayurveda provides natural solutions to tackle this problem and ensure a comfortable pregnancy.

In addition to dietary changes, Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of staying hydrated. 

Drinking adequate water throughout the day can help soften the stool and ease bowel movements. 

Herbal teas like dandelion root or Triphala tea can also serve as gentle laxatives.

It is necessary to eat fiber-rich foods, such as vegetables and fruits. Also, drink warm milk with ghee before bed. 

Hypertension

High blood pressure is another common issue faced by pregnant women. If improperly managed, it can pose severe risks to the mother and the baby. 

Fortunately, Ayurveda offers natural ways to control and prevent high blood pressure during pregnancy.

Be stress-free, practice yoga asanas like vajrasana, dhanurasana, pranayama etc. Consume water boiled with gokshura. 

If not under control, consult your doctor immediately.

Anxiety and Stress

Anxiety and Stress are common challenges that many pregnant women face. 

The hormonal changes, physical discomfort, and anticipation of becoming a parent can all contribute to these feelings. 

It’s important to address during pregnancy, as it can impact both the mother and the baby.

Ayurveda provides several natural remedies for managing effectively. One such remedy is the use of adaptogenic herbs like Ashwagandha, Brahmi, Chamomile, etc. 

These herbs promote relaxation, reduce anxiety, and improve overall mental well-being.

In addition to herbs, Ayurveda emphasizes the importance of lifestyle modifications to manage stress. 

Incorporating daily self-care practices like meditation, deep breathing exercises, and gentle yoga can significantly reduce stress levels. 

Taking time for yourself and engaging in activities you enjoy can also be beneficial in managing anxiety.

Back pain

Back pain is a common complaint during pregnancy, affecting many women at different stages. 

Weight gain, hormonal changes, and shifts in the body’s center of gravity can strain the lower back, leading to discomfort and pain.

Ayurveda offers effective remedies to alleviate and promote overall well-being during pregnancy. 

One such remedy is applying warm herbal oils to the affected area. Massaging the back with sesame or coconut oil can help soothe the muscles, reduce inflammation, and provide relief.

Another Ayurvedic management technique is practicing specific yoga asanas that are safe and suitable for pregnant women. 

Gentle stretches and poses like cat-cow and pelvic tilts can help strengthen the back muscles and improve flexibility.

Leg cramps

Oil massage with sahacharadi tailam, food containing calcium, and milk medicated with Sida cordifolia (Kurunthotti)

Urinary tract infection

Stay hydrated.

Include barley and cranberry juice in your diet. If not subsided, consult your doctor immediately.

Ayurveda’s natural approach helps alleviate discomforts while supporting the healthy development of your baby. 

Following these remedies with the guidance of an Ayurvedic practitioner will give you the care and nourishment you need during this sacred time.

Lifestyle Recommendation during Pregnancy

During pregnancy, following a healthy lifestyle is critical. 

Here are some some recommendations:

• Eat a balanced diet with plenty of leafy greens, fruits, and whole grains. Avoid heavy, greasy foods.
• Drink 6-8 glasses of water to stay hydrated. Herbal teas can also be soothing.
• Get light exercises like walking, swimming, or yoga. Practice deep breathing and meditation.
• Get plenty of rest. Aim for 8-9 hours of sleep per night, and take naps if needed.
• Avoid harmful substances like alcohol, cigarettes, and drugs.
• Practice good hygiene, like oil massages and warm showers.
• Spend time with loved ones. Pregnancy can be stressful, so social support is essential.
• Wear comfortable, breathable clothing. Avoid anything too tight.
• Be careful with activities that could lead to falls or injury. Move slowly and deliberately.

Following these lifestyle tips will promote your baby’s health, happiness, and development during this particular time. 

Make self-care a priority every day. You deserve it!

Things to be avoided during pregnancy

Some activities and substances should be avoided during pregnancy to ensure the health and safety of you and your baby.

• Hearing excessive loud noises or sounds may startle the baby.
• Harsh or violent activities
• Ride over a vehicle running on an uneven path.
• Coitus 
• Excess exercise
• Sleeping in the time
• Awakening in the night
• Squatting posture of sitting
• Suppression of natural urges
• Prolonged stay in hot sun or near fire
• Fasting 
• Lifting heavy weight and eating clay
• Contact with dirty, disfigured, foul-smelling, awful-looking substances.
• Listening to inspiring stories
• Unwanted outings, visiting lonely places, haunted trees, cremation grounds etc
• Acts likely to promote anger and disgrace
• Taking part in contact sports, horse riding, or any activity with a risk of falling or physical harm.
• Consuming raw or undercooked foods like meat, eggs, or seafood which may contain harmful bacteria.
• Drinking alcohol, smoking cigarettes, or using any drugs. These can seriously impact your baby’s development.
• Handling pets poop or gardening without gloves, as exposure to certain parasites like toxoplasmosis can be dangerous during pregnancy.
• Use saunas, hot tubs, or sunbathing for long periods, as overheating is unsafe for fetal development.
• Flying or traveling to high altitudes unless approved by your doctor. The air pressure changes can affect your pregnancy.
• Taking any over-the-counter or herbal medicines without consulting your doctor. Many can be unsafe during pregnancy.
• Experiencing high levels of stress, anxiety, or depression. Seek counseling or join a support group to help improve your mental well-being.
• Missing prenatal checkups or not following your doctor’s recommendations for pregnancy care. Regular monitoring is essential for a healthy pregnancy.

Ayurvedic remedies to improve the immune system during pregnancy

Some simple Ayurvedic remedies can help boost your immunity during pregnancy.

• Ashwagandha: This popular Ayurvedic herb is safe for pregnant women and helps reduce stress and strengthen immunity. You can take 1/2 teaspoon of ashwagandha powder with warm milk twice daily.
• Turmeric: Turmeric or curcumin has antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Add 1/2 teaspoon of turmeric powder to a glass of warm milk and drink daily. You can also add turmeric to your cooking.
• Ginger: Ginger is a natural immunity booster that helps alleviate nausea during pregnancy. Make a ginger infusion by steeping grated ginger in hot water. Strain and drink the infusion with honey.
• Oil massage: An oil massage with coconut, sesame, or almond oil helps relax your body and mind. It improves blood circulation and boosts immunity. Gently massage your body, especially your belly, for 15-20 minutes 3-4 times a week.
• Yoga and pranayama: Practice gentle yoga asanas like cat-cow pose, bridge pose, and seated twist pose. Also, do pranayama like anulom vilom and bhramari to boost your body’s oxygen supply. Practice under guidance for the best results.

FAQ’s

1. What should a pregnant woman not eat according to Ayurveda?

According to Ayurveda, there are certain foods a pregnant woman should avoid:

Avoid raw papaya, aloe vera, and foods that are too hot, spicy, or irritating, such as chilies, garlic, onions, etc. 

These can cause discomfort and aggravate pitta (the fire element) in the body. Chilli peppers, raw onions, and strong spices (black pepper, turmeric, etc.) should be avoided in excess. Also, quit alcohol, caffeine, and smoking.

2. Which is the best month to get pregnant in Ayurveda?

In Ayurveda, the months between October and January (Hemanta ritu) are considered the best time to plan for pregnancy. 

During these winter months, your body’s strength is at its peak, and your metabolism slows down, conserving energy for growth and development. 

Conception is more likely during this time, as well as a healthy pregnancy and delivery. 

The cool, dry weather is also more conducive for the foetus to develop.

Some tips for this period:

• Focus on nourishing, warm foods like hot milk porridge topped with ghee.
• Keep your body warm and cozy. Bundle up and avoid extreme cold.
• Practice self-massage with warm oils like sesame oil.
• Engage in moderate exercise like walking or gentle yoga.
• Spend time with loved ones. Cultivate feelings of contentment and connection.
• Consult an Ayurvedic practitioner about herbs and supplements to support fertility and healthy pregnancy.

3. Which month is not suitable for conceiving a baby?

During menstruation, full moon, and in the Amavasya period, you are not advised to do coitus. 

During this period, the body’s doshas (energies) can be imbalanced, which may lead to health issues for the baby. 

The couple should avoid unprotected intercourse during this month.

4. How can egg quality be improved according to Ayurveda?

To improve egg quality in Ayurveda, focus on these critical factors:

Diet:

 Follow a balanced diet of fresh, whole foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. 

Reduce intake of processed foods, sugar, and red meat. Emphasise foods rich in folate, like spinach, avocados, and beans, which aid egg development. 

Drink plenty of warm or room-temperature water to stay hydrated. Herbal teas like red raspberry leaf, nettle, and oat straw support reproductive health and egg quality.

Lifestyle: 

Get adequate sleep, rest, and moderate exercise most days. Yoga, walking, and light strength training are good options. 

Practice relaxation techniques like meditation, pranayama, or mindfulness. Reduce stress, which can negatively impact egg health and fertility.

Herbs: 

Herbs like Shatavari, ashwagandha, maca, and spirulina are considered reproductive tonics in Ayurveda. 

They help balance hormones, reduce inflammation, and support egg development. Check with your doctor before using any herbal supplements.

Following these Ayurvedic principles can help create the optimal environment for your body to produce high-quality eggs. Be patient and consistent; eggs can mature for 90 days or more.

5. Does Shatavari increase egg quality?

Shatavari, also known as Asparagus racemosus, is an Ayurvedic herb that has been used for centuries as a reproductive tonic for women. 

While little scientific evidence shows that Shatavari directly improves egg quality or increases fertility, it is thought to have adaptogenic effects that help balance hormones and reduce stress. 

By promoting hormonal balance and a healthy reproductive system, Shatavari may support overall fertility and improve conditions for egg health and ovulation.

Some potential benefits of Shatavari for fertility and egg quality include:

• Acts as an adaptogen to help regulate hormones and reduce stress
• Supports a healthy reproductive system and menstrual cycle
• Provides antioxidants and nutrients essential for egg health, like folate and B vitamins
• It may improve cervical mucus production and ovulation

While Shatavari is considered very safe for short-term use, you should always talk to your doctor before taking any herbal supplements, especially if you are trying to conceive. 

Shatavari may help create the right environment for egg health, but many other factors are involved in fertility, and there is no guarantee of improving egg quality or fertility. 

Lifestyle changes, medical evaluations, and procedures are often also needed when issues with egg quality or infertility are present.

6. How can a woman increase her fertility?

To increase your fertility, focus on nourishing your body and balancing your hormones.

Practice ayurvedic preconception care.

Eat a balanced diet with many fruits and vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins. 

Stay hydrated, limit caffeine and alcohol, and maintain a healthy weight. Exercise regularly with gentle yoga or walking to keep your body in shape and relieve stress.

Get adequate rest each night so your body can function correctly. Try relaxation techniques like meditation, deep breathing, or journaling to unwind.

See an Ayurvedic practitioner for an herbal fertility treatment. Rasayana herbs like shatavari, ashwagandha, and guduchi help balance hormones and boost egg health. 

Herbs can be taken in capsule form or as a decoction.

Track your monthly cycle to identify your fertile window. Have intercourse during this window, especially around ovulation, to increase your chances of conception.

Acupuncture may help regulate your cycle and balance hormones. Many women have succeeded with acupuncture, especially when combined with herbal medicine.

With patience and care for your whole well-being, you’ll boost your fertility naturally. Remember, every woman’s body is different—find what works for you.

Saatwika Ayurveda’s Approach to Pregnancy Care

So, you will have an overview of how Ayurvedic medicine approaches pregnancy and childbirth. 

Saatwika Ayurveda focuses on balancing and nurturing the mother and baby during this time. 

Following these principles and practices can help ensure you have the healthiest pregnancy possible and give your little one the best start.

Eating well, exercising, meditating, and surrounding yourself with love and support are always good ideas. 

Saatwika Ayurveda guides you on how to tailor those things specifically for your pregnancy. 

Why not try some of these recommendations?

Staying positive, reducing stress, and connecting with your baby can only bring more joy and peace to your pregnancy. 

Best of luck to you, mama – you’ve got this!

Saatwika Ayurveda is here to support you each step of the way.