Estimation of prakriti (body constitution) in women of Eastern Maharashtra tribal belt of central India featuring early and premature menopause

Abstract

ABSTRACT Introduction: Prakriti (body constitution) is the essential fundamental of Ayurveda. In female physiology, it plays a crucial role in determining the age of menarche and menopause. Recent research has shown that early menopause occurs in tribal women. Vagbhata states that a kapha dosha pradhan prakriti female has a longer menstrual life [i.e., reproductive period] compared to the vata and pitta prakriti females. This study was done to estimate prakriti in females who attain early and premature menopause in the tribal population to provide optimal care for tribal women through primary and whole health systems. Materials and Methods: This cross-sectional questionnaire survey study was carried out in four villages of Nagpur district territory of Eastern Maharashtra, the central zone of India after seeking permission from IEC. A multistage sampling technique was used to select the 80%, and above tribal people, 169 married women who attained early or premature menopause were included. Post-menopausal women were selected for the study, and females with hysterectomy, secondary amenorrhea, and other major illnesses were excluded from the study. Data were collected by survey method with the help of a pre-validated questionnaire. Observation and Result: Out of 169 females 57.98% of females were of vata prakriti, 24.85% of females were of pitta prakriti, and 17.15% of females were of kapha prakriti. The prevalence of early or premature menopause of vata prakriti females is 57.98. Discussion: Vata dosha characteristics such as ruksha, laghu, sheeta, and khara in vata prakriti females lead to early or premature menopause. To avoid early or premature menopause in tribal females, ghee (ghrit) and milk can be included in dietary habits, lifestyle modification, and awareness counseling may prove beneficial. Conclusion: Early or premature menopause is observed largely in vata prakriti females of Nagpur district, Eastern Maharashtra, tribal zone of Central Inda.