Article: KAPHAJA YONIVYAPADA AND VULVOVAGINAL CANDIDIASIS: A LITERARY REVIEW OF CLASSICAL AND MODERN PERSPECTIVES

Article Category: Review articles

DOI: 10.7897/2277-4343.17269

Pages: 158-162

Author: Prerna *, R. Jayalekshmi, Manpreet Kaur

Abstract: From puberty to menopause, the concept of a healthy Yoni (female reproductive organ) is emphasized in both Ayurvedic and modern medical frameworks. Infections affecting the vaginal tract have become increasingly common, transcending age and socioeconomic boundaries. In Ayurveda, these manifestations are attributed to Kaphaja Yonivyapada, one among the twenty types of Yonivyapada (gynaecological disorders), caused by the vitiation of Kapha dosha. The condition is attributed to Kapha Dushti in the Artavavaha Srotas (reproductive tract) and is marked by symptoms like Picchila Srava (mucilaginous discharge), Kandu (pruritus) and Sheeta Sparsha (coldness in genital region). Vulvovaginal candidiasis, a prevalent condition in modern gynaecology, presents with similar symptoms. Nearly 75% of women experience at least one episode of this entity during their lifetime, and about 45% suffer from recurrent infections. Candida albicans is the leading cause of infection. It presents with itching, abnormal discharge, redness, and discomfort. Standard treatments include antifungals. The article presents a textual synthesis and briefly correlates Kaphaja Yonivyapada with Vulvovaginal Candidiasis; which will enhance academic understanding by consolidating traditional Ayurvedic insights with relevant modern parallels.

Keyword: Kaphaja Yonivyapada, Kandu, Review, Vulvovaginal Candidiasis, Yoni Srava.