VEDANA DECODED: PAIN PERSPECTIVES IN PRASUTI TANTRA AND STREE ROGA

INTRODUCTION: Vedana (pain) is a multifaceted concept encompassing physiological and psychological dimensions, with its origins deeply rooted in imbalances of the body and mind, as described in Ayurvedic litera-ture. This study explores the intricate mechanisms of pain, its perception, and its classification of various condi-tions, mainly focusing on disorders mentioned in Stree Roga (Gynaecology) and Prasuti Tantra (Obstetrics) METHODS: Through a critical review of Ayurvedic texts, pain in conditions such as Yoni Vyapad, Asrugdhara, Artavadhusti, and Garbha Garbhini and Prasava Vyapad and other related disorders is analysed, providing a better understanding on their physiopathology of Vedana. The study also discusses the physiology of Uterine pain, integrating modern pain pathways with Ayurvedic understanding, particularly the involvement of nocicep-tors, spinal pathways, and central pain processing centers. RESULTS: The role of Vata Dosha in pain is emphasised, as it governs the manifestation and characteristics of different pain types. Specific forms of pain are attributed to the interplay of Doshas, such as Thoda, Daha or Manda Ruja, which are linked to Vata, Pitta, and Kapha Varna Vedana, respectively. This review examines the nervous system of the uterus, highlighting its sensory and autonomic components and their role in pain transmis-sion during menstruation, labour, puerperium and pathological conditions. DISCUSSION & CONCLUSION: This comprehensive review underscores the relevance of Ayurvedic princi-ples in understanding pain, especially in Stree Roga (Gynaecology) and Prasuti Tantra (Obstetrics), and bridges traditional knowledge with contemporary insights into pain physiology.