Ovulation Time period, Proper Time Ayurvedic perspective
Introduction
Understanding the ovulation time through lens of Ayurved is the first step to healthy conception, which is in turn essential for bringing a little one into your family. In this blog post, we will explore the concept of “Rutu kala” or the fertile phase of the menstrual cycle according to Ayurveda and how it aligns with modern medical knowledge. Let’s dive in!
Rutu Kala - Proliferative phase with ovulation
According to Ayurveda, Rutu Kala is considered the appropriate time for conception. The commentator of Ashtanga Sangraha, Indu, explains that Rutu Kala is the period when conception is more likely to occur because the seeds, or sperms, deposited in the vagina during this time have the potential to bear fruit. This phase begins after menstruation, but there is some disagreement regarding its duration
Deciphering the duration of Rutu Kala
Different authors have different opinions on the duration of Rutu Kala. Some say it lasts for 12 days, while others argue it is 16 days. There is also the belief that Rutu Kala can last for the entire month if the vagina, uterus, and menstrual blood are healthy. In some cases, Rutu Kala may even occur without menstruation. The controversy around the duration of Rutu Kala is further explained by Dalhana, who suggests that some authors consider the first three days of menstruation, the 12 days after menstruation, and the 16th day as Rutu Kala. However, Dalhana advises against including the first three days of bleeding and the 16th day in the calculation, as the vagina constricts during this time.
Modern correlation
In modern medicine, the ovulation time is typically estimated to occur around the 14th day of a 28-day menstrual cycle. However, variations have been observed, ranging from the 8th to the 21st days of the cycle. The lifespan of the ovum is said to be 18-24 hours after ovulation. If sexual intercourse occurs between the 12th and 16th day of the cycle, the chances of conception are higher. It’s important to note that the possibility of conception can vary depending on the date and period of ovulation.
Correlation with the proliferative phase
The description of Rutu Kala in Ayurveda seems to closely resemble the proliferative phase of the menstrual cycle, which includes ovulation. The proliferative phase is when the uterus lining thickens in preparation for potential pregnancy. By considering the explanation of Rutu Kala as the entire month or even without menstruation and its specific importance in terms of conception, it can be inferred that Rutu Kala aligns with the proliferative phase, which concludes with ovulation.
Importance of conception during Rutu Kala
Conception is believed to occur mainly during Rutu Kala due to the unique changes that take place in a woman’s body during this time. Ayurveda offers a simile to explain this phenomenon. Just as a lotus flower closes after sunset, the vagina of a woman gets constricted after Rutu Kala, preventing the entry of sperms into the uterus and drastically reducing the chances of conception. Therefore, it is crucial for conception to take place during Rutu Kala.
Result of conception other than Rutu Kala
It is believed that if conception occurs after Rutu Kala, the lifespan of the child may be shortened. This can be understood using a simile. Just like paddy grown after its appropriate season possesses fewer properties and is weak, unstable, unsteady, thin, and fragile, a child conceived after Rutu Kala may also exhibit similar traits, such as being unstable , having a shorter lifespan, and being prone to diseases.
Characteristics of a woman in the fertile period
According to Charaka, a woman in the fertile period of her menstrual cycle, known as Ritumati stree, possesses a healthy reproductive system. This includes a healthy vagina, uterus, and menstrual blood. She has taken a bath after the elimination of the accumulation of menstrual blood from the previous cycle, and the new cycle has begun. Some of the characteristic features of Ritumati stree include a pleasant and healthy appearance, moistness of the body, a desire for the company of men, an affinity for pleasing stories, laxity in flanks, eyes, and hairs, and quivering or twitching of various body parts like arms, breasts, pelvis, and thighs. These features serve as indications of the fertile period.
Infertility advice pertaining to ovulation time
In many cases of infertility, both partners may be healthy, but conception fails to occur. One possible hidden cause could be poor timing of intercourse. Couples may not be sexually active during the fertile period, resulting in missed opportunities for conception. Ovulation typically occurs around the 14th day before menstruation. To enhance the chances of conception, it is advisable to be sexually active on alternate days starting from the 10th day of the menstrual cycle until the 20th day. It is recommended to have intercourse every alternate day or once every three days, as total sperm production and semen volume recovery may take up to two days.
Seeking contraception advice
For those seeking contraception, it is important to avoid unprotected sex between the 10th and 20th day of the menstrual cycle (based on a 30-day cycle). This is the general fertile period, and the chances of conception are higher during this time.
Nature of the child based on mood during conception
According to Harita, the nature of the child conceived is influenced by the mood of the mother during conception. If the mother follows all the hygienic practices recommended during the menstrual period, the child is likely to inherit similar satwika, rajasika, or tamasika character traits dominant in her. Furthermore, the child may also bear a resemblance to the mother’s father, brother, or any individual close to her heart, depending on whom she thinks of during conception.
In conclusion, understanding the concept of Rutu Kala or the fertile period of the menstrual cycle according to Ayurveda can greatly increase your chances of conceiving. By aligning this knowledge with modern medical findings, you can maximize the probability of starting or expanding your family. Remember to consult with a healthcare professional for personalized advice. Wishing you the best on your journey to parenthood!
