“Utharavasthi In Females-A Survey among Ayurveda Doctors of Kerala”

Abstract

Utharavasthi procedure (Urinary/genital route of medicine administration) in females is least explained, compared to other procedures in the classical text books of Ayurveda. Acharyas have mentioned utharavasthi among vasthikarma, but elaborate description is not available. There are differences in opinion among Acharyas and among the doctors regarding the dosage, type and the method of administration of utharavasthi. Aim To find out the variations in the practice of utharavasthi in female patients by Ayurveda doctors in Kerala. Materials and methods A cross sectional survey was conducted among the Ayurveda doctors of Kerala who practice utharavasthi in female patients. The data regarding utharavasthi was collected with a pre tested questionnaire through direct face to face interview from 34 doctors .The data collected were sorted out and analyzed using appropriate statistical methods. Results Majority (47.1%) of the doctors practicing utharavasthi practiced all the three methods, intra vaginal, intracervical and intrauterine methods. There were variations in the choice of instruments, dosage, time and method of administration. Only a minor group of doctors (23.5%) practiced mootramarga utharavasthi in females. 44.1% of the respondents consider utharavasthi as a necessary treatment procedure in gynecology practice. Clinical significance and conclusion Recording and analyzing the practices of utharavasthi among the eminent doctors across Kerala help to clarify the prevailing confusions regarding the procedure. Getting to know the complications and their remedies is an additional advantage. Moreover, this survey finds out the variations in the practice of utharavasthi procedure throwing light into the unexplained and unaccustomed facts over the subject. This improves the horizon of our knowledge thereby helping the patient to receive better treatment.