Amruta: A Journal on Prasuti Tantra, Bal and Stree Rog ISSN: 3108-2157 (Online)

Authors: Aarti Mehra, Soni Gupta

Abstract: Menopausal transition, also known as perimenopause, is the period of the ageing process in which a woman goes from a reproductive to a non-reproductive stage. It is the time period between the late reproductive years, which is generally between the late 40s and the early 50s. It begins with irregular menstrual cycles and lasts for one year following menstruation cessation. Because of the progressive reduction of ovarian follicular activity, most women begin to experience a variety of physical, psychological, vasomotor, and urogenital symptoms long before they satisfy the criteria of menopause. Perimenopausal symptoms are quite severe for around 20% of women. The condition is referred to as rajakshaya in Ayurveda. According to traditional sources, "jara pakwa sareeranam yathi panchasata:kshayam" (regular menstrual flow progressively diminishes after the age of 50 years). 2 Rajas is regarded as the rasa3 or raktha4 upadhatu. 1 The usual amounts of dhatus are gradually depleted throughout the perimenopausal period, resulting in rajakshaya. As a result, it is classified as a Swabhavabala pravrutta vyadhi5 with jara or vardhakya symptoms. Agni mandya, pitta kshaya, vata aggravation, kapha medo dushti, and uttarothra dhatu kshaya occur during this period, resulting in rajakshaya. There is no clear account of perimenopausal symptoms in Ayurvedic texts. Various perimenopausal symptoms indicated in samhithas in the context of yonirogas can be seen. These symptoms can be bothersome at times and have a negative impact on one's quality of life. For the treatment of perimenopausal symptoms, Ayurveda has efficient techniques and herbal formulations. Rasayana, balya, dhatukrith, and rasa raktha prasadana should be used to deal with them and receive symptomatic relief. Treatment concepts based on Jwarasamaka or Santhapasamaka can be used. Lifestyle changes such as a balanced diet, exercise, and certain yogasanas and pranayama can help improve the quality of life throughout the menopausal transition.

Keywords: Ayurveda, Rajakshaya, Perimenopause, Upadhatu, Yogasanas, Pranayama