INTEGRATIVE AYURVEDIC APPROACH TO MAHAYONI (PELVIC ORGAN PROLAPSE) USING STHANIKA CHIKITSA: A CASE REPORT

Introduction: Ayurveda mentions Mahayoni, a severe form of Pelvic Organ Prolapse (POP) in which the pelvic organs herniate into and along with the vaginal canal due to ligament or muscle weakness. Prevalence of pelvic organ prolapse based on symptomology ranged from 3% to 6%, and maximum up to 50%. Many women with symptomatic POP suffer from physical and emotional distress. Method: A case report of a 74 years old woman who had complaint of mass per vagina and symptoms of difficulty in urination and incontinence in the past one year. Based on history, examination and investigations it was diagnosed as Mahayoni (3rd degree uterine prolapse). Sthanika Chikitsa was adopted like Yoni Abhyanga (vulvovaginal massage), Swedana (Sweating therapy), Prakshalana (Vaginal douching) and Pichu (Vaginal tampon) considering her age factor. Result: Significant reduction in mass per vagina, decrease in urinary symptoms and dragging pain was observed. The outcome was measured by POP-Q Quantification scoring before and after treatment. Discussion and Conclusion: Ayurveda has promising ways to manage this condition effectively without surgery through ancient treatment modalities mentioned under Sthanika Chikitsa (Local therapy), ensuring symptomatic relief, reduction in prolapse and improving overall quality of life.