Garbhasrava and Recurrent Miscarriage: A Critical Review of Classical Ayurvedic Concepts

Abstract

Background: Recurrent miscarriage is a clinically and emotionally significant reproductive problem with heterogeneous causes and a substantial proportion of unexplained cases. Classical Ayurveda describes pregnancy loss through the concepts of Garbhasrava and Garbhapata and discusses repeated fetal loss under conditions such as Putraghni Yonivyapad. The classical framework extends beyond the event of miscarriage to include prerequisites for conception, maternal nutrition, uterine receptivity, fetal nourishment, Dosha balance, conduct during pregnancy, and avoidance of Garbhopaghatakara Bhava.

Aim: To critically review the classical Ayurvedic concepts related to Garbhasrava and recurrent miscarriage.

Objectives: To analyze the classical terminology and conceptual distinction between Garbhasrava, Garbhapata and repeated pregnancy loss. To review Putraghni Yonivyapad, Garbhasambhava Samagri, Shadgarbhakara Bhava and Garbhopaghatakara Bhava in relation to pregnancy maintenance. To construct a concise Ayurvedic Samprapti framework for recurrent pregnancy loss. To identify points of conceptual convergence and difference with contemporary recurrent pregnancy loss while avoiding unsupported one-to-one equivalence.

Materials and Methods: A narrative critical review was undertaken using major Ayurvedic classics, standard Prasuti Tantra and Stri Roga texts, and selected peer-reviewed literature on recurrent pregnancy loss. Classical concepts were organized under etiology, pathogenesis, preventive care and pregnancy-supportive principles. Contemporary guidelines were used only to frame current terminology and recognized clinical domains.

Results & Discussion: Classical concepts can be used as a systems-oriented interpretive framework for individualized assessment, but they should not be treated as validated substitutes for genetic, anatomical, endocrine, immunologic or hematologic evaluation. The strongest contemporary use of these concepts is hypothesis generation, preventive counseling and integrative research design.

Conclusion: Garbhasrava and recurrent miscarriage can be critically examined through several interrelated Ayurvedic constructs rather than a single disease label. Rigorous clinical studies are required before classical interventions can be assigned evidence-based efficacy in recurrent pregnancy loss.