Soumanasya in Women's Mental Health: A Narrative Review of Preconceptional Care in Ayurveda

This narrative review explores the ancient Ayurvedic concept of "Soumanasya" (mental harmony) and its critical role in preconception care for women. Drawing from classical Ayurvedic texts, particularly Charaka Samhita, this review investigates how mental well-being influences fertility and conception outcomes. Recent studies indicate that 40-60% of individuals diagnosed with infertility experience severe anxiety and depression, underscoring the bidirectional relationship between mental health and reproductive function. By integrating classical Ayurvedic insights with modern scientific fields such as psychoneuroendocrinology, this review explores how Manasika Bhavas (mental states) influence hormonal balance, ovulatory function, implantation, and overall reproductive health. It advocates for a comprehensive approach to preconception care that gives equal importance to Soumanasya (mental harmony) and Sharirika Swasthya (physical well-being). The findings suggest that integrating Soumanasya-based approaches in the modern era preconception care may enhance reproductive success and offspring well-being