Handling Pregnancy Without Stress

Author: Dr. Archana Dubey MBBS, MS (OBG)
Consultant: Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital Indore

Pand celebration and not stress. It is a time of many changes. You may welcome these changes, but they can add new pressures to your life. Relieving stress during pregnancy might be easier than you think.

When you’re pregnant, there are days when you may cycle through every possible emotion. And one of the most common feelings that many expecting mothers tend to experience throughout their pregnancy is stress—stress about your baby, your body, prepping for the baby’s arrival, and life changes.

High levels of stress that continue for a long time may cause health problems like high blood pressure and heart disease. During pregnancy, stress can increase the chances of having a premature or low birth weight baby, increasing the risk for other health problems.

What causes stress during pregnancy?

Here are some common causes during pregnancy:

You may be dealing with the discomforts of pregnancy, like morning sickness, constipation, being tired, or having a backache.
Your hormones are changing, which can cause your mood swings that make it harder to handle stress.
You may be worried about labour and birth or how to take care of your baby.
If you work, you may have to prepare your team for when you take maternity leave.
You may worry about how you eat, drink, and feel and how these things affect your baby.

If managed well, a little stress can help you overcome new challenges. Chronic stress during pregnancy, such as work deadlines, probably doesn’t add to pregnancy problems.

However, severe stress during pregnancy may increase your chances of specific problems, like premature birth. Most women who have severe stress during pregnancy can have healthy babies. Some of the issues that can cause severe stress.

Negative life events
Catastrophic events
Long-lasting stress
Depression or anxiety
Neighbourhood or societal stress

While it’s normal to experience these emotions, prolonged or severe stress during pregnancy isn’t good for you and your baby. In fact, high levels of constant stress can even make pregnancy symptoms worse.

Finding ways to manage stress is essential for any mother-to-be. Here are a few stress reducing tips to try:

Take good care of yourself
Don’t stress out about stress
Avoid negative responses to stress
Schedule time for yourself
Exercise & meditate
Ask for help when needed

Mind-body techniques, such as yoga and massage, can also help reduce pregnancy stress levels. Mind-body techniques are beneficial for both mother and child.

At Motherhood Hospitals we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best gynaecologist in Indore. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries, including various laparoscopic surgeries.

Do make an appointment with the best womancare hospital in Indore at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors, who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Archana Dubey, please book your appointment here.

Advantages Of Music Therapy for General And Mental Health

Author: Dr. Shweta Nayak MBBS, DNB(OBG), MNAMS, CCGDM, KISAR Fellowship in Infertility, Fellowship in Basic Ultrasound
Consultant: Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital Mysore

Music therapy can be a beneficial and pleasurable way to lessen the symptoms of many ailments, including depression, mood swings, and anxiety, even if it cannot treat any mental health conditions. Through music therapy, people can communicate their feelings and experiences in a special and approachable way. Ancient civilisations had a strong musical tradition, which is present in all cultures today. However, music is now understood to be essential to overall health and wellbeing. Our brains release dopamine and serotonin when we listen to energetic, enjoyable music, which makes us feel happy. On the other side, quiet music encourages peace and relaxation.

Music is a universal human trait. The healing power of music has been acknowledged in almost all traditions of music. Music therapy is moving from a social-science model focusing on overall health and well-being towards a neuroscience model focusing on specific elements of music and its effect on sensorimotor, language and cognitive functions. A handful of evidence-based music therapy studies on psychiatric conditions have shown promising results.

Music therapy is an evidence-based treatment that helps with a variety of disorders, including cardiac conditions, depression, autism, substance abuse and Alzheimer’s disease. It can help with memory, lower blood pressure, improve coping, reduce stress, improve self-esteem and more.

Music therapy may help you psychologically, emotionally, physically, spiritually, cognitively and socially. When used in conjunction with conventional therapies like talking therapy, research demonstrates that music therapy is effective in reducing the symptoms of depression. Dopamine, a hormone released by music, and endorphins both contribute to the “feel good” emotions that people experience. It also helps to encourage self-expression, improves social connection, and enhances the mood of patients.

Music helps people feel more confident, relaxed, and emotionally healed. Additionally, music can help those who have endured traumatic events and can aid people in managing pressure and stress.

Helps with anxiety
Reduces stress
Improve symptoms of depression
Improves cognitive functions and delays Alzheimer’s
Promotes emotional wellness

People have listened to music for a very long time because it can have a good effect on their moods and emotions. Music therapy has many other benefits in addition to helping with mental health difficulties, such as providing a creative outlet, strengthening education and cultural awareness, and improving cognitive skills like memory.

Many therapies can help individuals improve their emotional growth, social skills, and motor control. Music therapy is no exception to these benefits. Some may say music therapy goes a step beyond normal therapies by helping to change the brain. Music can retrain certain cognitive abilities and promote behavioural changes. But, as great as this all sounds, music therapy does have its cons. Music does have a powerful impact on our emotions and our physical health.

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Archana Dubey, please book your appointment here.

Handling Depression And Anxiety During Menstruation

Most people who menstruate will experience some symptoms of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS). Periods can cause plenty of uncomfortable symptoms. These symptoms vary from person to person, but they often extend beyond physical discomforts, like cramps, fatigue, and headaches.

Depression and other mood changes often show up in the days before your period starts, but they don’t automatically disappear once it begins. They can linger for a few days, if not longer. Some people also experience depression after their period ends.

After ovulation, which occurs midcycle, the levels of the female sex hormones estrogen and progesterone begin to fall. Rising and falling levels of these hormones can affect brain chemicals called neurotransmitters. Serotonin and dopamine are examples of neurotransmitters which are both chemicals that influence mood, sleep, and motivation.

Low levels of serotonin and dopamine can cause the following symptoms, which are common with PMS:

Sadness
Anxiety
Irritability
Sleep problems
Food cravings

When the levels of estrogen and progesterone begin to rise again a few days after the onset of a period, these symptoms often go away.
Track Your Symptoms
Keep track of your symptoms throughout the phases of your menstrual cycle. This may help you determine whether your symptoms of depression are connected to your cycle. Having a detailed log of symptoms from your last few menstrual cycles can also come in handy when you want to discuss depression before and during periods with your healthcare provider. Thorough documentation of your symptoms may make it easier to explain to your healthcare provider what you’re experiencing.
Vitamins & Supplements
Some supplements may help relieve symptoms of depression before and during periods. It was found that a calcium supplement may reduce PMS-related tiredness, appetite changes, and depression. Great sources of calcium include milk, cheese, yoghurt, fortified cereals, orange juice, and leafy green vegetables. A daily calcium supplement is another way to get enough calcium.
Lifestyle Changes
You can make the following lifestyle changes to relieve the symptoms of depression before and during periods.
Exercise
Try to be physically active for a minimum of 30 minutes most days of the week. Even going for a daily walk through your neighbourhood might improve your symptoms of fatigue, difficulty concentrating, and depression with your period.
Nutrition
Try to resist the cravings that often accompany premenstrual syndrome. For some people, eating excessive sugar, salt, and fat can have a negative impact on mood. You don’t have to avoid these foods completely, but strike a balance with vegetables, whole grains, and fruits. Avoiding alcohol, stopping smoking, and cutting back on caffeine may also help relieve symptoms of depression with periods and before it.
Sleep
Sleep for at least seven to eight hours per night, especially a week or two before your period. Not having enough sleep may make your depression worse during your period.
Stress
Unmanaged stress may worsen symptoms of depression during periods. Use relaxation techniques like meditation, yoga, mindfulness, and deep breathing exercises to calm your body and mind. Avoid emotional and stressful triggers whenever possible. Symptoms of depression before and during periods can often be managed with lifestyle changes and antidepressants.

At Motherhood Hospitals we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best gynaecologist in Mysore. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries, including various laparoscopic surgeries.

Do make an appointment with the best womancare hospital in Mysuru at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors, who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Shweta Nayak, please book your appointment here.

Ergonomic Issues And Precautions

Author: Dr. Priyanka Rohit Gupta MBBS, MD (OBGY)Fellow Infertility
Consultant: Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital Lullanagar Pune

Ergonomics focuses on the work environment – considering the design and function of tools, lighting, controls, displays, and workstations to fit the physical requirements of the employee. Unfortunately, although numerous studies have proven how helpful ergonomics can be,many workers and employers still don’t understand how a lack of ergonomics negatively impacts health.

Musculoskeletal Disorders (MSDs) are illnesses or injuries to the muscles, nerves, tendons, joints, cartilage, arms, legs, neck, or lower back. MSDs are caused or made worse by muscular force for a long time, repetitious movement, constant vibration, and contact stress. Ergonomics tries to find solutions to solve MSDs, and these solutions usually involve changing tools, equipment, materials, work methods, or the work environment. The number of women is growing fast in the workforce, but unfortunately, women have a higher chance of getting MSDs than men. This higher rate is due to job and physical differences between men and women.

According to a report, a woman’s hand is approximately 2 cm shorter than a man which can lead to uncomfortable usage and inappropriate placement of hand tools. Looking a little lower down the body, the joint angle of the knee is wider in women due to broader hips. This can cause more strain on knees in women than men in instances involving standing for long periods.

Many ergonomics-related injuries can happen gradually – over a long period of time, and often in a manner that means you don’t notice them until the discomfort has grown to a significant level. Various disorders arise from the impact of numerous small stresses and injuries to the body – referred to as CTDs, or Cumulative Trauma Disorders. These particular issues are most common within the electronic work environment of today – wherein most people spend several hours a day hunched over a keyboard or working at a computer. Poor posture and ergonomics are the leading cause of CTDs, but it’s also worth noting that there are several factors that can also speed up their development, including personal risk factors, inadequate recovery time, excessive force, repetitive motion, and contact stressors.

Those suffering from CTDs can experience various symptoms within the affected area of their body, including pain, aching, numbness, swelling and tingling.

In general, the workstation should be adjustable to reduce awkward postures and accommodate the woman’s body. Women in jobs where they sit a lot may develop low back pain, which may be relieved with a proper chair with a supporting lumbar backrest and a footrest. The workstation should be adjustable so that women may work either sitting or standing to allow frequent changes in posture.

Prolonged sitting or standing are leading risk factors for problems in the back. Walking causes the leg veins to pump blood upward from the feet and helps prevent minor swelling of the ankles. Pressure from the firm edge of seat pans that can obstruct leg veins when sitting should be avoided because it may cause blood clots.

How Can You Protect Yourself ?
It’s easy to see that poor ergonomics can have a huge impact on your lifestyle and well-being. Fortunately, setting up your workstation doesn’t have to be a difficult task. The idea is to set up an adjustable station, allowing workers to change their posture according to their needs. Ergonomic offices should include adjustable display screens, flexible copyholders, proper lighting, adjustable and detachable keyboards, and the right ergonomic furniture .

At Motherhood Hospitals we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best gynaecologist in Lullanagar, Pune. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries, including various laparoscopic surgeries.

Do make an appointment with the best womancare hospital in Lullanagar, Pune at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors, who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Priyanka Rohit Gupta, please book your appointment here.

Dealing With a Sedentary Life

Author: Dr. Shweta Wazir MD, DGO, MBBS
Consultant: Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital Gurgaon

Modern advances make our lives easier, but they’ve led many of us to adopt a more sedentary lifestyle. Much of our lives require us to stop moving. Moving less and sitting more is linked to several health conditions and is believed to be a significant cause of the obesity epidemic.

Take a second to see how your day looks. If it’s working at a desk or in one place, followed by home, then dinner, TV and bed, is it any wonder you can’t fit in any exercise?

The risks posed by a sedentary lifestyle have made people more aware of how to prevent them. We become more active in finding ways to work more efficiently and perform tasks more conveniently. Today’s trends at work and home are demanding. That’s why it is crucial to find ways to prevent the adverse effects of sedentary living.

Tips you Should Consider To Avoid A Sedentary Lifestyle
Keeping an active lifestyle is one of the major ways to keep yourself away from the perils of a sedentary lifestyle. Check the following tips and apply them in your daily living to achieve an active and healthier way of living.

Choose to stay healthy and fit. Be aware of how to keep your body fit and healthy. Choose healthy foods and drinks. Have regular exercise to keep yourself feeling active.
Take a walk or go cycling when going to your work. If you can reach your workplace in a matter of minutes, take a walk instead of riding in a vehicle. Cycling can also help to keep you moving. This will also help you avoid being stagnant and keep moving.
Do some types of stretching. You can do it while you’re at your desk or while at home before doing some chores. By doing some stretching, you can keep good circulation throughout the body.
Gain the benefits of standing desks, converters, or sit-stand desks. More and more companies are getting on the benefits of applying ergonomics in the workplace. This includes utilising ergonomic equipment such as wobble chairs, standing desks, and converters. They are proven to lessen the adverse effects of a sedentary lifestyle.
Instead of calling or sending an email, you can do it by delivering the message to your colleagues. If you have something to tell your workmates about work, you can walk around the office and tell them. This can be another technique to keep yourself moving.
Try not to have lunch while working at your desk. Do not miss your lunch to keep you physically and mentally active the whole day.
Take a break for 5-10 minutes. A job can be overwhelming throughout the day due to deadlines and tedious tasks to be completed. It is imperative to take a 10-minute break to avoid too much strain.
Have a standing meeting. Usually, meetings can last for several hours; thus, sitting can be for hours, too. This is the reason why standing during meetings is also promoted.
Take the stairs instead. Using the stairs instead of the elevators is smarter to keep you more active. You can make it a habit, so this can be a simple yet effective health routine.

Keeping yourself away from a sedentary lifestyle can be both a daunting and exciting experience. Be responsible and consistent in doing things that will help you avoid the adverse effects of being sedentary. Make sure to get updated on the current trends and innovations, so you’ll not miss the strategies on how to stay comfortable and healthy at work and at home.

At Motherhood Hospitals we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best gynaecologist in Gurgaon. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries, including various laparoscopic surgeries.

Do make an appointment with the best womancare hospital in Gurgaon at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors, who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Shweta Wazir, please book your appointment here.

The Benefits Of Recreational Therapy

Author: Dr. Manisha Tomar MBBS, DNB, DGO
Consultant: Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital Noida

Recreation therapy is planned, organized, and therapeutic recreation program. It’s designed to help people gain social skills and participate in leisure group activities. The focus of recreational therapy programs is to help a person to:

Get involved in leisure activities
Gain or restore social functions
Prevent the loss of physical abilities Programs are designed to meet your abilities, needs,
and interests, such as: Relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing, to help ease stress
and tension
Stretching and limbering exercises
Individual and group sports activities
Leisure activities, such as arts and crafts, games, or dramatics
Special outings, such as ball games, sightseeing, or picnics

How can recreational therapy benefit your health?
Recreational therapy has wide-ranging positive impacts on your physical and mental health. This is especially true when the therapy is designed around your interests and needs. Recreational therapy can make a difference in the lives of people.

Improves symptoms of depression
Many therapeutic recreation programs get people up and moving and stimulate their minds with engaging, creative tasks. Music therapy, art therapy, drama, and dance also positively affect depression symptoms. Researchers believe the improvement may be linked to endorphins.

Increases self-esteem
Research shows that recreational therapy may help improve self confidence and self-esteem.

Strengthens social connections
Illness, injury, and disability can limit your ability to interact with people. Recreational therapy provides opportunities to engage with other people positively, which can counteract feelings of isolation. Stronger social bonds like these are associated with better health outcomes.

Improves functional independence after an injury
A serious injury can often affect your ability to do routine tasks. Taking care of your home, exercising, and playing with your children or grandchildren may be difficult or impossible after an injury. Recreational therapy can make a difference in functional independence after a severe injury.

Increases strength and physical fitness
Recreational therapy often includes exercise, games, dance, yoga and other kinds of movement, and this helps improve your balance, physical strength, and flexibility.

Boosts cognitive abilities
Physical exercise, social engagement, and games that stimulate your brain (such as bridge, chess, and memory challenges) all improve the healthy functioning of your mind.

Relieves anxiety for those who are hospitalized
Being treated in a hospital is a stressful, fearful experience for anyone. Recreational therapy in a hospital may help reduce those negative feelings. This can be particularly important if someone visits hospitals repeatedly due to a chronic condition.

The bottom line
Recreational therapy uses leisure activities to promote recovery from illness, injury, or disability. Activities include art, dance, music, exercise, creative writing, and games. Working with a trained recreational therapist can improve mood, reasoning, memory, physical fitness, and self-confidence. Researchers believe the combination of physical movement, creativity, social interaction, and mental engagement helps to deliver this wide range of health benefits. If recreational therapy could benefit you or someone, talk with your healthcare provider about possibly harnessing the power of play to achieve your health goals.

At Motherhood Hospitals we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best gynaecologist in Noida. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries, including various laparoscopic surgeries.

Do make an appointment with the best womancare hospital in Noida at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors, who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Manisha Tomar, please book your appointment here.

Understanding the Impact of Flu on Children’s Health: Symptoms, Risks, and Prevention Strategies

Author: Dr.Amit Gupta MBBS, MD, KGMC, PGPN
Consultant: Peadiatrician & Neonatologist at Motherhood Hospital, Noida

The flu, short for influenza, is a contagious viral infection that can affect people of all ages, including children. As a pediatrician at Motherhood Hospital, I have witnessed the impact of flu on children’s health, and it is essential for parents to be aware of the symptoms, risks, and effective prevention strategies to safeguard their little ones from this seasonal menace.

Symptoms of Flu in Children

Recognizing the signs of flu in children is crucial for timely intervention and treatment. Common symptoms include:

High Fever: Children may experience a sudden and high-grade fever, often reaching 101°F (38.3°C) or higher.

Cough and Sore Throat: A persistent cough and sore throat are typical flu symptoms in children.

Runny or Stuffy Nose: Children may have a runny or congested nose during the course of the infection.

Body Aches and Fatigue: Flu often leads to generalized body aches and weakness, making children feel tired and sluggish.

Chills and Headaches: Children may experience chills and headaches, adding to their discomfort.

Risks Associated with Flu in Children

While flu is generally a mild illness in healthy children, certain groups face a higher risk of complications. These include:

Infants and Young Children: Children under the age of 5, especially those under 2 years old, are more susceptible to flu-related complications.

Children with Chronic Conditions: Kids with underlying health conditions like asthma, heart disease, diabetes, or weakened immune systems have a higher risk of severe flu outcomes.

Pregnant Adolescents: Teenagers who are pregnant are also at an increased risk of flu-related complications.

Prevention Strategies

Preventing flu in children is possible through several effective strategies. Here are some essential prevention tips:

Annual Flu Vaccination: The flu vaccine is recommended for all children above the age of 6 months. It offers significant protection and reduces the severity of the illness if children do get infected.

Frequent Handwashing: Encourage children to wash their hands regularly with soap and water for at least 20 seconds to prevent the spread of germs.

Respiratory Hygiene: Teach children to cover their mouths and noses with a tissue or their elbows when they cough or sneeze.

Avoiding Contact with Sick Individuals: Limit exposure to individuals who have flu-like symptoms to reduce the risk of transmission.

Disinfecting Surfaces: Regularly clean and disinfect commonly touched surfaces and objects, such as toys and doorknobs.

Conclusion

As parents, it is essential to stay informed about the impact of flu on children’s health and take proactive steps to safeguard them from the virus. By recognizing the symptoms, understanding the risks, and implementing effective prevention strategies, we can create a healthier environment for our children and protect them during flu season. If your child exhibits flu-like symptoms or falls into a high-risk category, consult a pediatrician promptly to ensure timely care and management of the illness.

Remember, a proactive approach and adequate information are the keys to protect our little ones from the flu and promote their overall well-being. Stay vigilant and keep your children healthy and happy throughout the flu season.

At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a team of experienced super specialists backed by the latest in infrastructure and facilities. We have the best Paediatricians in Noida that consists of a team of paediatric specialists that cater to all the needs of children, across age groups, and provide the best care for your child’s development.

Do take an appointment with the best child care hospital in Noida at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Amit Gupta, please book your appointment here.

Understanding the Impact of Seasonal Flu on Pregnant Women and Unborn Babies

Author: Dr. Manju Gupta MBBS, MGO, FGO, DGO
Consultant: Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital, Noida

As an expecting mother, taking care of your health and well-being is of utmost importance for the proper development of your unborn baby. During flu season, it becomes even more critical to understand the potential impact of seasonal flu on pregnant women and their babies. In this article, we will explore the implications of flu during pregnancy and the steps that can be taken to safeguard both maternal and fetal health.

The Vulnerability of Pregnant Women to Seasonal Flu

Pregnant women are more susceptible to infections due to the natural changes in their immune system. These changes, although designed to protect the developing baby, can also make expectant mothers more prone to viral illnesses such as the flu. Additionally, the increased demands on the body during pregnancy, coupled with respiratory and cardiovascular changes, can exacerbate the severity of flu symptoms in pregnant women.

Potential Risks to the Unborn Baby

When a pregnant woman contracts the flu, there can be potential risks to the unborn baby. Some of the complications associated with maternal flu may include:

Preterm Birth: In severe cases, the flu can trigger preterm labor, leading to premature birth. Premature babies may face health challenges and require specialized care.

Low Birth Weight: Maternal flu can affect the baby’s growth and lead to low birth weight, which may increase the risk of health issues in infancy and beyond.

Birth Defects: While rare, some studies suggest a link between severe maternal flu and certain birth defects. It is important to emphasize that the overall risk of birth defects due to flu is low.

Protective Measures for Pregnant Women

Taking proactive steps to prevent seasonal flu is essential for the well-being of pregnant women and their babies. Here are some guidelines to consider:

Flu Vaccination: The flu vaccine is safe for pregnant women and is recommended during pregnancy. It not only protects the mother but also provides immunity to the baby during the first few months of life.

Good Hygiene Practices: Regularly washing hands with soap and water, avoiding close contact with sick individuals, and refraining from touching the face can help reduce the risk of flu transmission.

Staying Away from Sick Individuals: If possible, pregnant women should avoid close contact with individuals who have flu-like symptoms.

Seeking Early Treatment: If a pregnant woman experiences flu symptoms such as fever, cough, sore throat, body aches, or fatigue, she should seek medical attention promptly.

When to Consult a Healthcare Professional

Pregnant women should promptly seek medical advice if they experience flu-like symptoms, especially if they are having difficulty breathing, persistent pain or pressure in the chest, confusion, or severe dehydration. Timely medical intervention can prevent complications and safeguard both maternal and fetal health.

Conclusion

Understanding the potential impact of seasonal flu on pregnant women and unborn babies is crucial for taking appropriate preventive measures and seeking timely medical care if needed. By staying informed and following the guidelines provided by healthcare professionals, expectant mothers can ensure a healthy and safe pregnancy for themselves and their precious little ones.

Remember, the best defense against the flu during pregnancy is a combination of proactive measures and seeking medical attention when necessary. Together, we can protect the health of expectant mothers and contribute to the well-being of future generations.

At Motherhood Hospitals we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best woman care in Noida. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries, including various laparoscopic surgeries.

Do make an appointment with the best maternity hospital at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors, who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Manju Gupta, please book your appointment here.

Flu during Pregnancy: Risks, Symptoms, and Prevention Strategies

Author: Dr.Manisha Ranjan MBBS, MGO, FGO, DGO
Consultant: Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital, Noida

Pregnancy is an incredible journey for any woman, filled with anticipation and joy. However, it is also a time when one’s immune system can be compromised, making expectant mothers more vulnerable to infections, including the flu. In this article, we will explore the risks, symptoms, and essential prevention strategies to safeguard both the health of the mother and the unborn baby during flu season.

Understanding the Risks of Flue During Pregnancy

Contracting the flu during pregnancy can pose significant risks to both the mother and the developing fetus. Pregnant women are at a higher risk of experiencing severe complications due to changes in their immune system, heart, and lungs. These complications may include pneumonia, dehydration, and even preterm labor.

Additionally, the flu virus can potentially affect the baby’s health, leading to birth defects or preterm birth. It is, therefore, crucial for pregnant women to take necessary precautions to protect themselves from the flu virus.

Recognizing Flu Symptoms during Pregnancy

The symptoms of flu during pregnancy are similar to those experienced by non-pregnant individuals. Common signs of the flu include:

High fever (generally above 100.4°F or 38°C)
Body aches and fatigue
Cough and sore throat
Headache and chills
Runny or stuffy nose
Nausea and vomiting
Prevention Strategies

Flu Vaccination: The most effective way to prevent the flu during pregnancy is by getting a flu vaccine. The flu shot is safe for pregnant women and provides protection for both the mother and the baby. It is recommended that pregnant women receive the flu vaccine during flu season, regardless of their trimester.

Hygiene and Handwashing: Frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is crucial in reducing the risk of flu transmission. Avoid touching the face, especially the eyes, nose, and mouth, as the virus can enter the body through these areas.

Avoiding Close Contact: Pregnant women should avoid close contact with individuals who are sick, and if possible, maintain a safe distance from people who have flu-like symptoms.

Covering Coughs and Sneezes: Use a tissue or the crook of the elbow to cover coughs and sneezes to prevent the spread of flu germs.

Maintaining a Healthy Lifestyle: Adequate rest, a balanced diet, and regular exercise can help boost the immune system and improve overall health during pregnancy.

Seeking Early Medical Attention: If flu-like symptoms develop, pregnant women should seek medical attention promptly. Early diagnosis and management can help prevent complications.

Conclusion

Pregnancy is a unique time when extra care is essential to ensure the well-being of both the mother and the baby. Protecting oneself from the flu virus is a vital step in maintaining a healthy pregnancy. By following preventive strategies and considering the benefits of flu vaccination, expectant mothers can reduce the risks associated with the flu and embrace this beautiful phase of life with greater peace of mind.

As a healthcare provider at Motherhood Hospital Noida, I encourage all pregnant women to take proactive measures and seek medical advice promptly if they suspect flu symptoms. Together, we can ensure a safe and healthy journey through pregnancy.

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Manisha Ranjan, please book your appointment here.

Keeping Fit With a Colourful Plate Of Fruits And Veggies

Author: Dt. Arti Singh MSc – Nutritional Science
Consultant: Nutritionist & Dietician at Motherhood Hospital Kharghar, Mumbai

Diagnosing diseases early through regular screening tests is the best defence for treating the disease. It can be hard to keep up with the demands of everyday life, especially if you feel pulled in numerous directions. But the one place you shouldn’t cut corners involves your preventive care. Regular health checks keep potential health issues at bay and nip any developing problems in the bud. In some cases, they can even save lives since issues such as breast cancer can be treated early, and preventive measures can be taken.

It is essential to see your doctor for regular health checks. The checks can pick up early signs of disease or illness so that you will get treatment earlier. A general check-up is recommended once a year. If you are at higher risk of a disease or condition, you may need to get checked more often.

Health screening monitors your well-being

Unlike scheduling an appointment because of a cold or flu, you must have health screenings to monitor your overall health and wellness.

These screenings vary based on your age and individual needs, but they always focus on the following:

Screening for medical issues
Establishing a baseline for your general health
Assessing your risk of future medical issues
Encouraging a healthy lifestyle
Updating vaccinations
Building a trusted relationship with your provider

Health screening checks for many things

These screenings focus on your unique healthcare needs, especially your gynaecological health. The health checks are tailored to your age and lifestyle but always capture vital signs, such as weight, height, pulse, and blood pressure. These measurements help give general insights into your overall health.

Based on your age and sexual activity, the following also need to be performed:

A physical exam
Internal and external genital exam
HIV and Sexually Transmitted Disease (STD) testing
Preventive screenings for cervical cancer or breast cancer

These health screenings also allow you to share any concerns about your health. These conversations can also help you build a relationship with your doctor.

Health screenings evolve along with you

Not only can health exams detect serious problems – such as cervical cancer – before you may notice any symptoms, but they can help you feel your best at every stage of life. That’s because your health screenings evolve with your unique needs. For example, you may have questions about your period or body changes when you start puberty. This can also be a good time to get the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine, which can protect you from STDs. Once you become sexually active, your health screenings will become a safe place to discuss healthy sexual relationships, birth control methods, and STD prevention and testing. And, as you prepare for pregnancy, these appointments can focus on having a healthy pregnancy. And, if you no longer want to have children, you can discuss more permanent birth control options. Finally, your health screenings will evolve as you move out of your reproductive years, from perimenopause to menopause and beyond.

Preventive health checks

Screening for ultrasound, Pap smear, and a mammogram is an important part of preventive healthcare for women. It can detect potential health issues early, prevent the development of certain health conditions, assess an individual’s risk, and provide education and empowerment for individuals to take control of their health.

Make health screening a priority
It’s easy to make excuses to skip your check-up. However, it would help if you considered this visit a nonnegotiable meeting you cannot miss. Your health should be your number one priority. Start treating it that way and schedule your visits.

At Motherhood Hospitals we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best woman care in Whitefield, Bangalore. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological, and other surgeries, including various laparoscopic surgeries.

Do make an appointment with the best woman care hospital in Whitefield, Bangalore at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors, who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with Dr. Nirmala M, , please book your appointment here.

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