Brain and Fascia, the Missing Link in Clinical Reasoning of Reproductive Function: Persian Medicine Approach

Abstract

Context: Infertility is a significant global concern that causes stress in families, necessitating broader studies on infertility management due to its increasing prevalence. Evidence Acquisition: Obesity is a notable risk factor for infertility or dysfunction in the reproductive system. Persian medicine (PM), as one of the complementary and integrative medical systems, highlights the connection between abdominal organs and the brain. Results: This study utilized the works of Avicenna, Razi, and Ahvazi to explore personalized indicators of clinical reasoning in various infertility conditions. The PM practitioners emphasized two primary considerations in the clinical reasoning of infertility: The brain and abdominal fascia, where pathological changes in one could directly affect the other, potentially contributing to infertility. A key element in this connection is Maraqq, a membranous structure (part of the fascia) in the abdomen, analogous to the parietal peritoneum in modern terminology. Maraqq plays a role in digestion, breathing, and fertility. Disturbances in the brain and Maraqq may have adverse effects on fertility. Conclusions: Treatment strategies in PM appear to leverage the brain-abdominal fascia connection (Maraqq or peritoneum) to address infertility.