Punsavana Sanskara (Protection of the Fetus) – Once the baby is conceived and the mother is in between the second and the fourth month of pregnancy, the couple performs the Punsavana Sanskar. The word Punsavana translates to “protecting the fetus”. The roots of Punsavana are found in sections 4.3.23 and 4.6.2 of the Atharva Veda where there are multiple hymns and prayers to ensure the birth of a healthy baby and to prevent a miscarriage. This Sanskara is often misunderstood as a Sanskara to get a healthy baby boy, whereas in reality, it’s just meant to ensure the birth of a healthy baby, irrespective of their gender. This Sanskara is performed in various ways, but all of them involve the husband offering a delicacy to his wife. This is also the time when women develop morning sickness and various food cravings and the Sanskara also goes on to make the transition and process easier on the mother. In some versions, a priest is invited to chant Vedic hymns in the presence of a sacred fire (Yagna), followed by a feast for everyone involved. The prayers involve the wish for quick and healthy formation of all the organs in the baby. It is mentioned in Garuda Purana* that it is after 45 days of conception, that life is bestowed in the fetus. Hence this time is also in line with the origin of life in the fetus, and hence praying for its quick and healthy growth. Please note that here quickening the process doesn’t mean that the couple are intending for reducing the nine months pregnancy period. Instead, it means that they want the baby to be completely formed and be free of any ailments or anomalies when born.