Role of Uttar Basti in Management of Anartava w.s.r to Secondary Amenorrhea: A Case Report

Abstract

Secondary amenorrhea refers to the absence of menstruation for three or more months in women of reproductive age who had previously menstruated. In the classical texts of Ayurveda, various terms have been used to describe this condition such as Nashtartava by Sushruta, Anartava by Vagbhata, absence of Raja by Bhela, and Rajonasha by Bhavaprakash. Analyzing these references, it can be inferred that the main causes include Mithya Ahara and Mithya Vihara (improper diet and lifestyle of the mother during pregnancy and of the woman during her reproductive years), Beeja Dosha (genetic abnormalities), and Dushtartava (hormonal imbalances). Anartava is also mentioned as a symptoms of various Yonivyapadas such as Arajaska/Lohitkshaya, Shushka, Shandhi and Vandhya. While Acharyas described it more as a symptom due to the margavarodha of Apana vata by aggrevated Kapha which disrupts the production of Artava and also delays the outflow of Artava, it brings about a significant impact on female fertility. The absence of menstruation during the active reproductive age is a stressful feeling that needs careful understanding and management. Modern medicine offers mainly hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which has reported side effects, whereas Ayurveda provides a comprehensive approach, including internal medication, Panchakarma therapy, mainly Vamana, Yoga basti, Uttara basti, dietary corrections and lifestyle modifications. Presented here is a case study of a woman with secondary amenorrhea who was successfully treated with Uttar basti and Yoga basti, emphasizing the practical relevance and effectiveness of traditional approaches in Secondary infertility with menstrual abnormalities.