ANUVĀSANA BASTI IN THE PREPARATION FOR SUKHAPRASAVA: A CRITICAL REVIEW

Abstract

The third trimester is a crucial period of fetal growth, cervical maturation, increasing pelvic pressure and preparation for labour. Ayurveda describes Garbhini Paricharya for maintaining maternal and fetal health and promoting Sukhaprasava. In the ninth month, Acharya Charaka recommends Anuvāsana Basti with Madhura-gana-siddha Taila along with Yoni Pichu. Its Ayurvedic basis is Sneha, Vāta Śamana and Apāna Vāta Anulomana. Preliminary human studies suggest possible benefits in cervical favorability and labour progression, but current evidence is limited. Therefore, it should be considered a complementary intervention under qualified supervision rather than a proven method of labour induction or cervical ripening.