Published Paper Details:

Pregnancy involves rapid physiological, hormonal, and psychological changes that require careful maternal care. Traditional Ayurvedic Samhitas outline protective lifestyle rules (Garbhini Paricharya), while classical Hatha Yoga texts provide physical postures (Asanas) and breathing exercises (Pranayama). While general prenatal yoga is known to be beneficial, a generic, one-size-fits-all protocol can introduce health risks if not modified for the distinct phases of gestation. This systematic review evaluates the therapeutic effects, medical uses, and clinical safety of trimester-specific Yogasana and Pranayama practices on both the mother and the developing foetus. The literature indicates that the first trimester requires restorative poses and cooling Pranayama (e.g., Bhramari, Sheetali) to reduce early anxiety, manage morning sickness, and lower cortisol levels to safeguard embryo implantation. The second and third trimesters require modified hip-openers, spinal stretches, and deep breathing (e.g., Marjariasana, supported Malasana, Nadi Shodhana). These advanced practices reduce gestational hypertension, alleviate lower back pain, improve umbilical artery blood flow, and encourage optimal head-down fetal positioning. Most notably, clinical evidence reveals that structured third-trimester yoga strengthens pelvic muscles and trains breathing control. This combination directly reduces labor pain, shortens labor duration, and lowers emergency Caesarean rates. Trimester-specific prenatal yoga is an effective, evidence-based therapy that bridges ancient Samhita wisdom with modern obstetrics. Standardizing month-by-month protocols can optimize maternal-fetal outcomes and provide safer frameworks for clinical integration.