Estimation of Foetal Growth in Pregnant Women Exposed to Covid -19 with respect to Abhivridhi (Rasaja Bhava): A Retrospective Cohort Study
Year: 2026
Type: article
Study design: Observational Study
Abstract: Rachana Sharira provides the anatomical and embryological basis for understanding human development in Ayurveda. The principles governing foetal formation and development are described under Garbha Sharira in classical Ayurvedic embryology. Foetal growth and development are dynamic processes influenced by maternal, placental, and foetal factors. In Ayurveda, the factors contributing to normal foetal development are described under Shadgarbhakara Bhava, providing a broader framework for understanding Garbha development. Maternal nourishment further contributes to Garbha Poshana and is reflected in Rasaja Bhava, wherein Abhivridhi represents the progressive growth and development of the foetus. Maternal illness may therefore influence the processes supporting foetal nourishment and growth. In this context, Coronavirus Disease 2019 (COVID-19) has been associated with adverse pregnancy outcomes, and its potential impact on foetal growth has rarely been interpreted through classical Ayurvedic principles. This retrospective cohort study evaluated foetal growth in 40 pregnant women, comprising 20 women with documented COVID-19 infection during pregnancy and 20 non-exposed women. Foetal biometric parameters obtained during the second and third trimesters were compared between the groups and interpreted with reference to Abhivridhi. During the second trimester, the COVID-19-exposed group demonstrated a higher frequency of growth variations, including lower head circumference percentile and small-for-gestational-age patterns. The relative risk of growth restriction was 1.36, although the association was not statistically significant. By the third trimester, a comparatively greater proportion of normal growth was observed in the exposed group. These findings indicate a tendency towards altered foetal growth following maternal COVID-19 exposure, particularly during the second trimester, without establishing a statistically significant association. Interpretation through the concept of Abhivridhi provides an integrative Ayurvedic perspective on foetal growth and supports further exploration of classical concepts in maternal foetal health.
Authors: Abhirami K. Dileep, Pooja Sabharwal
Language: English
Subfield: Obstetrics and Gynecology
Field: Medicine
Domain: Health Sciences
Open Access status: diamond
OpenAlex ID: W7225320700