Gestational Diabetes Mellitus in Pregnancy: An Integrative Review of Ayurvedic Concepts, GarbhiniParicharya and Evidence-Based Management

Background Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is among the most prevalent metabolic disorders complicating pregnancy and is associated with significant maternal and fetal morbidity. The rapidly increasing prevalence of obesity, sedentary lifestyles, delayed childbearing, and changing dietary habits has contributed to a global rise in GDM. Although modern obstetrics provides standardized screening and glycaemic management protocols, increasing attention has been directed toward holistic approaches that address nutrition, lifestyle, psychological well-being, and individualized care. Ayurveda offers comprehensive principles through GarbhiniParicharya, Ahara, Vihara, and preventive medicine that may complement evidence-based obstetric care. 1-6 Objective To critically review current evidence regarding Gestational Diabetes Mellitus while interpreting the disorder through Ayurvedic principles, particularly Prameha and Madhumeha, and to explore the role of GarbhiniParicharya in integrative antenatal management. Methods A narrative review was conducted using classical Ayurvedic literature, including Charaka Samhita, Sushruta Samhita, Ashtanga Hridaya, Kashyapa Samhita, Ministry of AYUSH publications, and contemporary evidence from ADA Standards of Care, WHO, FIGO, DIPSI guidelines, Williams Obstetrics, Dutta's Obstetrics, and peer-reviewed literature published predominantly between 2020 and 2025. Data were synthesized narratively using an integrative medicine approach. 1-10 Results Current evidence demonstrates that early diagnosis, lifestyle intervention, medical nutrition therapy, physical activity, and appropriate pharmacological treatment significantly reduce maternal and neonatal complications. Ayurvedic concepts such as Agnimandya, Kapha-Meda predominance, PramehaNidana, GarbhiniParicharya, PathyaAhara, Yoga, and SatvavajayaChikitsa may provide a preventive and supportive framework when integrated alongside modern obstetric management. Classical texts do not describe GDM as an independent disease entity; therefore, correlation with Prameha and Madhumeha should be interpreted cautiously and conceptually. 11-16 Conclusion An evidence-informed integrative approach combining standard obstetric care with Ayurvedic lifestyle principles has the potential to improve maternal metabolic health, optimize fetal outcomes, and promote long-term prevention of type 2 diabetes. High-quality randomized controlled trials are needed to strengthen the evidence base for Ayurvedic interventions in GDM.