Susruta Samhita - Mandhata Global

Chap. Ill] SARIRA STHANAM. 135
qualities of Sattva, Rajas and Tamas, and led away by
the Vayu, lies confined in the uterus to be subsequently
evolved out in the shape of a god, animal, or monster,
as determined by his acts in the former existence. 3.
Factors which determine sex :—The
birth of a male-child marks the preponderance of semen
over the ovum (in its conception) ; the birth of a
daughter shows the preponderance of the maternal ele-
ment. A child of no-sex (hermaphrodite) is the product
when ovum and sperm are equal (in their quality and
quantity). The first twelve nights after the cessation
of the flow should be deemed as the proper period for
conception, as being the time during which the ova are
secreted. Certain authorities hold that there are women
who never menstruate to all appearances 4— 5.
Memorable verses :—The face of a woman
(lit : a woman of undetected menstruation) becomes
full and lively. A moist and clumsy deposit is found
on the body, face, teeth and gums. She feels a
desire for sexual intercourse and speaks sweet words.
Her eyes, hair, and belly droop down. A sort of
distinct throbbing is felt m her aims, thighs, mamma;,
umbilicus, perineum and buttocks. Her sexual desire
grows intense and prominent, and its gratification gives
her utmost joy and pleasure. These symptoms will at
once indicate that a woman has menstruated (inter-
nally). 6.
Just as the petals of a full blown lotus flower are
gathered up during ths night, so the uterus (Yoni) of a
woman is folded up {i. e., os of the uterus is closed) after
the lapse of the menstrual period {ie. fifteen days from the
date of the flow). The menstrual flow, accumulated in
the course of a month, is led in time by the local Vayu
through its specific duct (Dhamani) into the mouth of