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Background: Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant maternal mental health disorder characterized by emotional instability, anxiety, and depressive features. Ayurveda describes a comparable condition under Sutika Vishada, primarily attributed to Vata Prakopa, Ojas Kshaya, and Manovaha Srotodushti. Objective: To evaluate Shatkriyakala as a predictive and preventive framework for understanding the onset and progression of postpartum depression. Methods: A comparative literary review was conducted using classical texts of Ayurveda and contemporary biomedical literature. The six stages of Shatkriyakala were systematically correlated with clinical features and progression of PPD. Results: Early stages of Shatkriyakala (Sanchaya-Prakopa-Prasara) were found to be predominantly functional and highly reversible, whereas advanced stages of Shatkriyakala (Vyakti–Bheda) demonstrated structural and neuropsychological involvement requiring integrative management. Conclusion: Shatkriyakala provides a clinically relevant, stage-wise model for early diagnosis, prevention, and integrative management of postpartum depression.
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Dube et al. (2026) studied this question.
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