A Tradition of Care: Evaluating the Satisfaction and Benefits of Kaayakam Lehyam for Postpartum Women Insights from a Rural Andhra Pradesh Cross-Sectional Survey
Regeti Jyothsna1, Paidi Rama Rao2, Praveen Boddana1 Objectives: In Andhra Pradesh, postpartum care is traditionally recognized as essential for maternal health; however, comprehensive studies on this topic remain limited. This study aimed to evaluate the satisfaction and perceived effectiveness of Kaayakam Lehyam, a polyherbal formulation commonly used in postpartum care, in the rural setting of Mettavalasa village, Budathsvalasa Panchayat, Laveru Mandal, Srikakulam District. Methods: A retrospective cross-sectional survey was conducted using anonymized secondary data from women who received Kaayakam Lehyam through local maternal health support services. The survey included questions on childbirth experiences, the necessity of herbal support, satisfaction with the service, and the formulation’s perceived effectiveness. Additional sections covered medical history, prior herbal supplement use, duration and purpose of KL consumption, and self-reported changes in health following its use. Results: Among the 20 participants aged 22-30, 96.47% expressed satisfaction with Kaayakam Lehyam, while 98.53% acknowledged the need for repeated use in the postpartum period. More than half of the women reported improvements in energy levels, lactation, and overall well-being, with no significant side effects noted. Kaayakam Lehyam was valued for its affordability and ease of preparation. Conclusion: The findings suggest that Kaayakam Lehyam may offer beneficial support in postpartum care, with high levels of satisfaction and perceived improvements in well-being among users. Nevertheless, further rigorous clinical trials are recommended to substantiate its efficacy in postpartum health management.