Abstract:

Background: Dysmenorrhea, characterized by severe, cramping pelvic pain just before or during menstruation, is one of the most common gynecological complaints affecting women of reproductive age. In Ayurveda, this condition closely mimics Udavartani Yoni Vyapad, one of the twenty gynecological disorders (Yoni Vyapads) described by ancient seers.

Aim: This review aims to explore the classical Ayurvedic perspectives of Udavartani Yoni Vyapad, its correlation with primary dysmenorrhea, and the holistic management protocols emphasizing Vata pacification.

Review Results: The pathogenesis of Udavartani Yoni Vyapad revolves around the vitiation of Apana Vata due to the suppression of natural urges (Vegadharana). This leads to the reverse movement (Urdhwagati) of Vata, causing painful menstruation that is relieved immediately upon the proper discharge of menstrual blood. Modern pathophysiology of primary dysmenorrhea attributes this pain to prostaglandin-induced uterine ischemia, which parallels the Vata-vitiated spasmodic pain described in Ayurveda.

Conclusion: Ayurvedic interventions, including Vatanulomana (downward routing of Vata), Snehana (oleation), Swedana (sudation), and Basti (enema), offer promising, non-hormonal, and side-effect-free alternatives for managing dysmenorrhea compared to conventional NSAIDs or oral contraceptives.

Keywords:

Udavartani, vata, dysmenorrhea.

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