Garbha Sanskara is a multi-disciplinary approach for the preparation of the womb and focuses on creating a conducive environment for a healthy pregnancy and a healthy child. In short, Garbha Sanskara is a “Baby by choice, not by chance.” Ayurveda believes in the physiological, psychological and mental preparation of parents for pregnancy.
The meaning of Garbha is the union of sperm and ovum along with Atma or Jeeva. The meaning of Sanskara (subconscious impression) is a process of increasing the potential in ourselves. Sanskara is the process by which positive qualities in a human are developed and enhanced.
There are 16 Sanskaras in Ayurveda related to human life. Among these, the important Sanskaras related to pregnancy are:
- Garbadhana Sanskara, is for married couples when they are planning for a baby, which enrich the act of conception into a sacred ceremony for improving the unborn child.
- Punsavana Sanskara is performed at three stages: Before conception for achieving pregnancy, immediately after conception for proper implantation, and before three months of conception for obtaining a desired progeny or altering sex.
- Simantonayana Sanskara, is performed after fourth or fifth month of pregnancy. This is done after the mind of fetus starts developing. This creates positive changes in mother and child and improve their happiness.
The Ayurvedic Garbha Sanskara program comprises three stages: Preconception (Beeja Sanskara), During Pregnancy (Garbha Sanskara), and Post-Delivery (Bal Sanskara). Preconception Sanskara begins with selecting a suitable partner for marriage, considering three key factors.
Age, an important factor, which is the mature physical and psychological age of man and woman. The complication of teenage pregnancy is growth, restricted babies, pre-term labour, Intra-uterine death, low birth weight, higher infant mortality, etc. Pregnancy after 35 years is an increased risk for obstetric complications, perinatal mortality and morbidity.
Athulya Gotra (Dissimilar Lineage), means that marriage should not happen within the same family or between close relatives. This helps prevent hereditary disorders, as marrying within the same lineage increases the chances of genetic diseases. Common health issues in such cases include birth defects, heart problems, and intellectual disabilities.
Contagious diseases like STDs, in case they have such diseases, it should be treated first, and health should be regained then only plan for a pregnancy.
Preconception care
Ayurveda, considers the Shukra as Soma Guna, that is cold and Artava, as Agneya, is hot. According to this, the intake of milk and ghee processed with drugs, having a sweet taste is beneficial for man and the intake of Taila, Masha ( Black gram) and Pitta Vardhaka Aharas are beneficial for women before pregnancy.
Ayurveda points to four factors for conception; which are: Ritu (proper time), Kshetra (uterus), Ambu (Ahara Rasa or proper nutrition), Bija (male and female gametes). Any defect in these factors can cause infertility or defect in newborn. So to prevent this and to get baby with all good qualities, these factors should be in its best form. In this context, Ritu refers to ovulation, and pregnancy occurs only if intercourse happens during this time. Kshetra is the uterus, which must be healthy and receptive for proper fetal nourishment, achievable through Panchakarma therapies like Vasti and Virechana. Ambu represents nutrition and hormonal balance, crucial for fetal growth, which can be maintained with Panchakarma and medications. Beeja refers to sperm and ovum quality, essential for preventing congenital abnormalities in the baby.
Anti natal care
Screening high-risk pregnancies is crucial to prevent abortion and ensure the unborn child’s health. Ayurveda emphasizes do’s and don’ts for a safe pregnancy, advising against excessive sex, exercise, heavy lifting, irregular sleep, stress, fasting, excessive walking, and pungent or heavy foods. A pregnant woman’s diet should be light, nourishing, sweet, cool, and unctuous to prevent indigestion and meet nutritional needs. Ayurveda recommends milk processed with seeds, honey, ghee, and butter in different combinations throughout pregnancy.
Yoga, Meditation, and Music in Pregnancy
Yoga and Meditation play a vital role in pregnancy, promoting both maternal well-being and a smooth delivery.
- Yoga Nidra & Pranayama: Help prevent hypertension and complications like pre-eclampsia, eclampsia, and premature rupture of membranes.
- Gomukhasana: Relieves shoulder pain and improves diaphragm function.
- Ardha Chandrasana: Enhances blood circulation in the abdomen, ensuring proper nourishment for the baby.
- Marjarasana: Strengthens lower back muscles, easing labor and delivery.
- Parvatasana: Reduces pregnancy-related discomfort and psychological stress.
- Vakrasana: Aids digestion, preventing bloating, constipation, and acid reflux.
- Prasarita Padasana: Prepares the body for a smooth and natural delivery.
The Role of Music in Garbha Sanskara
Music therapy is a powerful tool that benefits both the mother and the developing fetus by addressing emotional, physical, and social well-being. Listening to soft instrumental music, the Gayatri Mantra, Om chanting, or classical melodies can enhance the baby’s neurological development and create a deep bond between the mother and child. Communicating with the unborn baby through music fosters a sense of security and connection.
