Aging in Ayurveda is associated with the process of degeneration and decay (Kshaya). Ayurveda considers aging Nishpratikriya (natural changes that cannot be resisted).
Menopause (Rajonivritti) occurring in aging body (Jarapakva Shareer) is associated with gradual diminution in the qualities of Dosha (Vata, Pitta and Kapha), tissue and organs (Dhatu Kshaya) and metabolic wastes (Mala), Agni and Oja.
Decay and degeneration (Dhatu Kshsya) naturally lead to Vata Vitiation. With advancing age, progressive vitiation of Vata due to its fundamental properties of unctuousness (Ruksha), unstable (Chala), light (Laghu), abundance (Bahu), quick (Shighra) and cold (Sheeta), further precipitates the involution and atrophy (Soshana and Kshaya) of different tissue, organs and organ systems (Dhatu).
This degeneration manifests as loss of the perceptive powers of sensory organs (Indriya Kshaya), loss of strength (Bala Kshaya) and loss of reproductive strength (Virya Kshaya). This may explain various symptoms of menopause related to degenerative changes in body such as urogenital atrophy, thinning of the membranes of the vulva, vagina, cervix, and also of the outer urinary tract, shrinking and loss in elasticity of all of the outer and inner genital areas and skin, breast atrophy, decreased libido, problems reaching orgasm and dyspareunia or painful intercourse.
The relative predominance of the three Doshas– Vata, Pitta and Kapha changes with age in the mind and body. As per fundamental principles of Ayurveda, Kapha is the predominant Dosha during childhood, Pitta during adulthood and Vata during old age.
The menopausal transition represents a period of dynamic change from middle age to old age. This transition from Pitta dominance to Vata dominant phase of life is the cause of the most of the symptoms of menopause. Pitta is more akin to metabolic activities and Vata have an active role in degeneration. Resulting imbalance of Dosha during this transition and Kshaya of Medo Dhatu (fatty tissues) may be the cause for hot flushes, excessive sweating; Rasa Dhatu Kshaya associated with increasing Vata in mind and body may cause sleep disturbance, irritability, dryness of the vagina etc. which are commonest symptoms associated with menopause.
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