They say the job of a parent, particularly that of a mother, is the most difficult job in the world – plus there are no days off! Let Mother’s Day (observed all over on the second Sunday of every May) be a day when we appreciate not only our own mothers, but every mother on Earth. And this brings us to reproductive health, which is important even for those of us who are not mothers yet. This Mother’s Day let us take a moment to look at how yoga can help to maintain and even enhance reproductive health.
Importance of reproductive health
Simply put, reproductive health refers to the condition of female (and male) reproductive organs and systems. It refers not only to the physical health and wellbeing of a woman but also her mental and social wellbeing. This doesn’t just mean that there is no particular disease or infirmity but also that all organs are able to carry out their respective processes and functions optimally. This is however easier said than done, particularly in the modern context.
Our current lifestyles, constant stress and environmental pollutants mean that maintaining good reproductive health is a significant challenge for a growing number of women. This results in declining fertility rates, difficulty getting pregnant or carrying a pregnancy to term, or difficulties during pregnancy. Looking after reproductive health is important not just for women wanting to conceive but for all women and their overall health. And let’s face it – childbirth is never easy. Whether it’s a natural delivery or a C-section, the process of childbirth is painful and taxing for the body to a lesser or larger extent. So why not try and ease that process as much as possible!
Yoga and reproductive health
Studies have shown yoga to benefit reproductive health in several different ways: firstly it strengthens the body and helps maintain healthy body weight. Being overweight is a significant factor impacting fertility. Yoga is also seen to reduce stress, and help in avoiding or easing symptoms of anxiety and depression. Mental health and wellbeing is another important factor. There is proper balance and regulation of the hormones required for good reproductive health seen among practitioners of yoga. In one study, couples trying to conceive via fertility treatments self-reported how yoga benefited them. A regular regime of yoga is seen to help, particularly the following poses:
- Supta Baddha Konasana or the reclining bound angle pose helps stretch the pelvic muscles and legs, kidneys and other organs in the region.
- Forward bends while in seated and standing positions also help to stretch the pelvic region while stimulating the ovaries and uterus.
- Viparit Karni or legs up the wall pose is helpful in directing blood flow to the reproductive organs.
Fertility yoga is found to be safe and beneficial for the most part. However, women should consult with their doctor about this, particularly if they are undergoing ovarian stimulation or other IVF process. Also it is best not to perform yoga in artificially heated environments during or before pregnancy to be on the safer side. Hatha Yoga, Iyengar Yoga and Restorative Yoga are found to be safe and most beneficial for enhancing reproductive health.