An ayurvedic and contemporary overview of heavy menstrual bleeding: A conceptual approach

Abstract

Heavy menstrual bleeding is the medical term for menstrual periods with abnormally heavy or prolonged bleeding. Although heavy menstrual bleeding is a common concern, most women don't experience blood loss severe enough to be defined as menorrhagia. The diseases Asrigdara explained in Ayurveda may correlated with condition heavy menstrual bleeding. According to Acharya Charak if the menstrual cycle turns to be abnormal due to pradirana (Excessive secretion) of Raja. It is termed as Pradara. According to acharya Sushruta, excessive and prolonged bleeding during menstruation or even in intermenstrual period, different from the features of normal menstrual blood is called Asrigdara. Raktapradar or abnormal uterine bleeding regular or irregular with alteration in amount or duration of menstrual loss, commonly implies to excessive regular menstrual bleeding or essential menorrhagia .Ayurvedic classics defined Raktapradar as excessive Pradirana (Secretion of Raja). Various treatments modalities like hormonal therapy, antiprostaglandins, antifibrinolytic agents and surgical interventions are available in modern medicine for the management of heavy menstrual bleeding. Taking into account the side effects and adverse effects, The Ayurvedic management mentioned above can be recommended as a safer, feasible and effective therapy for the management of heavy menstrual bleeding.