ORAL CARE AND PREGNANCY- Blog by Dr. Omar Farookh

Pregnancy oral care tips by Dr. Omar - Motherhood Hospital India.

Pregnancy can lead to dental problems including gum disease and an increased risk of tooth decay.
During pregnancy increased hormonal changes can affect the body’s response to the plaque on your
Teeth. However, the demands of pregnancy can lead to particular dental problems in some women,
With proper hygiene at home and professional help from your dentist, your teeth should remain
healthy throughout pregnancy.
Dental disease can affect a developing baby
Research has found a link between gum disease in pregnant women and premature birth with low
Birth weight. Babies who are born prematurely may be at risk of a range of health conditions including
Cerebral palsy and problems with eyesight and hearing.
Estimates suggest that up to 18 out of every 100 premature births may be triggered by periodontal
disease, which is a chronic infection of the gums. Appropriate dental treatment for the expectant
mother may reduce the risk of premature birth.
Causes of dental health problems:
Gum problems The hormones associated with pregnancy can make women susceptible to gum
problems like gingivitis (gum inflammation), more likely to occur from the first trimester with
symptoms including swelling of the gums and bleeding particularly during brushing and when
flossing between teeth.
Undiagnosed or untreated periodontal disease, pregnancy may worsen this infection and can
lead to tooth loss.
Pregnancy epulis, a localized enlargement of the gum, which can bleed easily.
During pregnancy, the gum problems that occur are not due to increased plaque, but a worse
response to plaque as a result of increased hormone levels.
Tooth Decay- Some women experience unusual food cravings while they are pregnant and a
regular desire for sugary snacks may increase the risk of tooth decay.
Morning sickness- Pregnancy hormones can cause gastric reflux (regurgitating food or drink) or
the vomiting associated with morning sickness that can coat the teeth with strong stomach
acids. Repeated reflux and vomiting can damage tooth enamel and increase the risk of decay.
Dental treatment and Pregnancy: Safety Factor
The safest time to undergo dental treatment is the 2 and trimester of pregnancy. Preventive
scaling or professional cleaning of the gums and teeth, cavity fillings and annual dental check-
ups during pregnancy are not only safe but are recommended. Elective treatments such as teeth
whitening and other cosmetic procedures should be postponed until after birth. However,
sometimes emergency dental procedures like tooth extraction or a root canal treatment can be
performed under precaution and following strict protocols.
Medications: Anesthesia is an integral part of dental procedures if needed the amount of
anesthesia to be administered should be as little as possible, but enough to make the patient
comfortable, at times additional anesthesia may be required. According American Dental
Association controlled administration of local anesthesia does not cause any significant harm to

the developing baby or the mother. Certain group of antibiotics and analgesics can safely be
prescribed throughout the 9 month pregnancy period.
X-rays: Routine x-rays typically taken during annual check-ups can usually be postponed until
birth. X-rays are necessary to perform many dental procedures especially emergencies. According
to American College of Radiology, no single x-ray has a radiation dose significant enough to cause
adverse effects in a developing embryo or fetus with appropriate shielding.
Treatment Planning during Pregnancy:
1. All pre-existing dental issues need to be sorted out before planning for a child, it is
recommended.
2. If already pregnant with pre-existing dental issues, it is advised to inform the dentist about
the pregnancy, the stage of pregnancy and the due date for the delivery. This information is
very important for the dentist to plan and execute the best possible oral care.
Home oral Care:
1. Brush your teeth with fluoridated toothpaste twice daily.
2. Floss your teeth regularly and rinse your mouth with an alcohol-free mouthwash.
3. Replace the toothbrush every month and use a soft bristle toothbrush.

Gestational Diabetes

It is a state of increased sugar level which generally normalizes after childbirth.

This occurs due to increased sugar level during pregnancy which is due to decreased insulin production or insulin resistance.

Incidence Ÿ??10% of the population is affected by GDM and it is increasing due to advanced maternal age and sedentary lifestyle.

Why does it occur– During pregnancy, an organ called placenta is formed which provides food and oxygen to the baby from the mother. This also produces certain hormones which prevent the action of Insulin on sugar. This increases the sugar level in pregnant patientŸ??s blood. Our pancreas produces insulin, but as the sugar during pregnancy is already high the amount of insulin produced is not enough to metabolize sugar resulting in increased sugar level.

Risk factors for GDM

  • PCOS-Polycystic ovarian disease
  • Obese patient with BMI more than 30
  • Previous history of having diabetes during pregnancy.
  • History of diabetes in a family
  • Having the previous baby of more than 4 kg
  • History of sudden still birth or IUFD.
  • An elderly primi
  • Ethnic-origin east Asian

Screening– During pregnancy visit, the doctor asks about the history and any risk-factor, if any risk factor During pregnancy visit, the doctor asks about the history and any risk-factor, if any risk factor then glucose challenge test with 75 gm Glucon-D is done. Or GCT is done routinely at 24-28 weeks.

Then glucose challenge test with 75 gm Glucon-D is done. Or GCT is done routinely at 24-28 weeks.

Symptoms

  • Increased thirst
  • Increased urination
  • Weakness
  • Increased appetite

Sign-During check up there is increased girth of the abdomen.

Sonographic Findings

  • Abdominal circumference is more than gestational age in growth scan at 28 weeks
  • Amniotic fluid is more than 20.

Effects on mother

  • Breathing difficulty due to increased girth
  • Repeated vaginal infection
  • High blood pressure
  • Sometimes retinal detachment due to small vessel damage

Effects on baby

  • Macrosomia or big baby
  • Difficult shoulder delivery during birth
  • Inside uterus death of a baby (IUFD)
  • Post-delivery hypoglycemia of baby management
  • If GCT at 28 weeks more than 140 or above>

Strict sugar monitoring by glucometer.

The patient is asked to follow a strict low sugar diet.

Good exercise and walking.

Sonography is repeated to see fluid and growth of baby and size of a baby.

If sugar is under control, the same diet and exercise are continued or else tablet like metphormin is added to lower the sugar level or else sometimes insulin must be added.

Time of delivery: Mostly between 38-40 weeks as sugar tends to increase after.

Between 38-40 weeks induction of labor is offered.

If baby size is too big then C-section is planned.

Birth difficulty:

  • Prolonged labor
  • Shoulder dystocia (shoulder can get stuck)
  • Perineal laceration

Post-delivery care: BabyŸ??s kept in neonatal care unit and sugar monitored regularly for 24 hours. If sugar is normal baby is shifted to the mother. Baby sometimes may have respiratory distress. BabyŸ??s more prone to develop jaundice. These babies are more prone to have diabetes, so breastfeeding is very important.

For motherŸ??s the sugar is checked for 24 hours. Then after discharge sugar is checked after 6 weeks and then every 6 months. These mothers are more prone to have diabetes after 15 to 20 years.

So once diagnosed by gestational diabetes patient should follow a strict discipline and visit a Gynec, physician and dietitian.

Caring For Your Premature Baby at Home

The premature baby is finally home; now itŸ??s up to you to make sure your baby is warm, fed, bathed, and joyful!

Caring for your preterm infant may not be so different from how you had thought. In many ways, it is similar to a baby born on the estimated delivery date. Here are some tips that will help you provide better care for your preterm baby:

Adapting to life at home with your premature child

Once you are home, you can start caring for your child by making the required significant adjustments to ensure your child is healthy and comfortable. We recommend you browse through some general parenting sites and books that may give you some helpful advice from time to time with useful tips on sleeping routine, food, and other aspects of life with a premature baby.

The Correct Temperature

Safe and comfortable temperatures are essential for your premature babyŸ??s health. Using layers like waistcoats, sleepsuits, and blankets will help keep your baby warm, safe and in a comfortable position.

Helping Your Baby Sleep

Providing the right atmosphere with dim lighting and quiet surroundings at night will help your baby develop a healthy sleeping pattern.

Sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS)

SIDS is a syndrome which results in the death of healthy babies in their sleep, usually during the first six months of life and premature babies are at higher risk when compared to other children.

Tips for reducing risks of SIDS

  • Use baby sleeping bags or lightweight blankets.
  • Avoid smoking inside the house.
  • Never fall asleep with your baby in your bed or sofa, especially when you are using drugs, alcohol, or medication.
  • Keep your baby away from heaters or radiators and avoid exposure to direct sunlight.

Bathing Your Premature Baby

How many times you can bathe your baby will depend on when your baby was born and the babyŸ??s skin sensitivity. Doctors recommend plain water and soft cotton cloth for bathing as well as changing diapers.

Caring for dry skin

If your premature child has dry skin, avoid using any moisturizing creams without consulting your doctor. After a few months, you can slowly start including baby products and handkerchiefs in your daily skincare routine.

Top and Tail: Bathing your baby every day is not required. Just wiping his/her face, bottom, and neck clean using a fresh soft cotton wool ball will suffice and whenever you bathe your baby use only plain water.

Snuggle him dry: The chances of your baby freezing is high when the skin gets wet because it loses some heat. Always bathe your baby in a fresh, warm place and dry him/her with a towel soon after.

Main causes of premature birth

Explore the reasons behind premature birth with expert guidance - Motherhood Hospital India

A normal and healthy pregnancy lasts for about 40 weeks. However, due to various factors, the labour may occur well before or after the estimated date. If the labour occurs before 37 weeks of pregnancy, the birth is considered to be premature, or preterm.

Classification:

Based on how early the baby is born, the baby is classified as:

  • Late preterm: born between 34-36 weeks of pregnancy.
  • Preterm: 24 – 34 weeks of pregnancy.
  • Extremely preterm: born before 25 weeks of pregnancy.

Causes of premature birth:

The exact cause of premature birth cannot always be identified. However, there are certain factors which contribute to an early labour. Some of these factors are:

  • Women younger than 17 and older than 35 are at an increased risk of premature delivery.
  • Having a previous premature birth.
  • Pregnancy with twins or multiples often results in preterm delivery.
  • Malnourished women are also at a higher risk of premature delivery.
  • Women suffering from chronic conditions like high blood pressure or diabetes.
  • Being underweight or overweight during pregnancy.
  • Smoking, drug abuse, or excessive consumption of alcohol during pregnancy.
  • Problems related to cervix, uterus, or placenta.
  • Physical injury, accident, or some other kind of trauma.
  • Women with a past history of miscarriages or abortions are more likely to go into labour prematurely.
  • Excessive physical, mental, or emotional stress.
  • Infections, especially in the lower genital tract often result in preterm birth.
  • Women who conceive through in-vitro fertilization have a higher chance of premature labour as compared to others.
  • An interval of fewer than six months between successive pregnancies.

Prevention of premature birth:

Premature birth poses significant health risks for the baby, which include both short-term and long-term risks. In fact, premature birth was the leading cause of infant deaths in the past when medical facilities were not developed. Though certain risk factors are beyond oneŸ??s control, one can significantly reduce the risk of preterm birth by following these tips:

  • Quit smoking before pregnancy, or as early as you can during pregnancy.
  • Avoid consumption of alcohol or drug use during pregnancy.
  • Before getting pregnant let your doctor know the medications you take, as some medications can be harmful to pregnancy and lead to premature birth.
  • Maintain a healthy weight during pregnancy.
  • Eat a nutritious diet and avoid junk food.
  • Avoid stressful or physically challenging work during pregnancy.
  • Maintain physical and social hygiene to avoid infections.

Motherhood is a one-stop solution to all your pregnancy needs and care. Our highly qualified team provides you with expert guidance during your pregnancy to avoid premature delivery and other complications. Even if a premature delivery is needed, our extremely competent team is well equipped and experienced in handling preterm babies, while providing a smooth delivery process and the utmost comfort and care to the mother.

Breast Cancer: What Every Women Should Know About It

Lumps in the breast are common problems in females. Only 20% of these breast lumps are cancerous. Breast cancer has replaced cervical cancer and now ranks first in cancers seen among females. The incidence of breast cancer is on the rise among Indian females, especially among younger generations. In spite of various treatment options available for treating breast cancer, the survival rates are less among Indian population compared to western population due to the presentation in advanced stages, lack of awareness about presenting symptoms and social stigma among village population.

Breast Cancer Screening
Screening is a method to diagnose an illness in its early stages with the goal to prevent death and suffering with timely medical interventions. Detection of breast cancer in the early stage has survival rates of above 95% which drops to 50% in stage III. So Screening for Breast cancer plays a major role in early detection and better treatment outcomes. Mammography, self-breast examination and examination of Breast by a trained medical professional are various screening options available.

American cancer society recommends clinical Breast Examination as the best screening modality for early detection. In India, mammography and clinical breast examination are most commonly followed modalities. Mammography is an imaging technique which helps to detect lesions in early stages which could not be appreciated by clinical palpating. Every female above 40 years of age is recommended to undergo annual screening in the form of mammography and clinical breast examination. Females with other risk factors like family history of breast and ovarian cancer, previous breast lesions are advised to undergo screening from an early age than the regular population.

Am I at Risk of Developing Breast Cancer?
In India, nearly 40 out of 1 lakh females develop breast cancer. There is a significant increase among younger females in the past few years. Risk factors for developing breast cancer can be broadly divided into modifiable and non-modifiable risk factors. Hormone replacement therapy, family history of breast, ovarian or male breast cancer, previous breast biopsy, exposure to ionizing radiation, not bearing children are all non-modifiable risk factors. Smoking, obesity, alcoholism are modifiable risk factors.

We advise to lead a healthy active life style and avoiding Smoking and alcoholism. People with non-modifiable risk factors are advised to get counselled by a doctor regarding the precautions and should understand the presenting symptoms. People with a strong family history should undergo frequent screening than people with normal risk. Strong family history can be due to an inherited genetic mutation, such individuals can undergo genetic testing only after a proper counselling with a geneticist. Genetic testing without people counselling is not advisable.

Self-Breast Examination
A self-breast examination is one of the options for females to keep themselves on a regular check. Every female should be aware of the presenting symptoms of breast cancer like a lump in the breast, bleeding from the nipple, Ulcer (wound) over the breast skin or nipple area, dimpling of the skin over the breast etc.

Self Breast Examination Includes 2 Steps :-
1) Looking at the breast in a mirror for any skin or nipple changes, any visible swellings in the breast and axillary.
2) Feeling both the breasts in lying down position on a flat surface. Feeling the breast should follow a regular pattern not to miss any part of the breast.

A self-breast examination should be done after 3-5 days of the beginning of your monthly menstrual bleeding. Females who have attained menopause can examine the same any particular day of a month.

Types of Hysterectomy Procedure by Dr. Suhasini Inamdar

Hysterectomy is the removal of the uterus (baby bag) surgically. There are various methods and approaches:

1)Laparoscopic hysterectomy:

This is minimally invasive surgery, it is done through keyhole openings, approximately 4-5 in number, on the skin surface of the abdomen. These are 2-3 cms in size. The uterus is detached of all the attachments and it is delivered out through the vaginal route.

2)Abdominal hysterectomy:

Here a bikini cut is given on the abdomen and the uterus is detached of attachments and removed through the abdomen.

3)Vaginal hysterectomy:

This is a common approach when the uterus is descending and coming down in or out of the vagina, which is called prolapse of the uterus. This approach is also used for some cases of non-descend, where the uterus is not very big, and no other abdominopelvic pathology is detected.

The laparoscopic family planning procedure

Family planning is a method which helps the couple plan the number of children in the family. This can be temporary like ORAK CONTRACEPTIVE PILLS, CUT, CONDOMS, VAGINAL CONTRACEPTIVE SPONGES. The permanent method is tying of the Fallopian tubes in ladies and of VAS DEFERENCE in men.

The best and minimally traumatic method of tying of fallopian is LAPAROSCOPIC TUBECTOMY

It is a day-care procedure, the patient gets admitted on fasting stomach. It is done under general anesthesia. The patient is started on liquids by mouth and made to walk and use the washroom 6 hours after the procedure. The patient walks home same evening and comes for review after a week

By Dr.Suhasini Inamdar

High-Risk Pregnancy

Motherhood can be considered to be one of the most beautiful experiences in a woman’s life. It is important to ensure motherŸ??s health is taken care of that will eventually result in growth and development of the fetus. Regular antenatal care will assure a healthy and safe delivery for the mother. If adequate steps are not taken in ensuring the health of the mother and the fetus high risk concerns may set in.

What is considered a High-Risk Pregnancy?

Pregnancy can be considered as high risk if there are potential complications that could affect either you, your baby, or both. These cases require special intervention by experts and specialists to ensure that the best possible outcome occurs for both the mother and the baby. Unforeseen illnesses or preexisting diseases can complicate the pregnancy, which, in turn, puts you and your baby at risk.

High-Risk Pregnancy Factors

These are some of the factors that can classify a pregnancy as a high-risk pregnancy-
  • Teenage pregnancy and Pregnancy above the age of 35.
  • Women with previous history of repeated pregnancy losses, previous preterm delivery, previous history of preeclampsia (increase blood pressure with edema). History of gestational diabetes in the previous pregnancy or any other medical disorder including psychiatry illness.
  • History of placenta praevia, antepartum bleeding, preterm premature rupture of membranes also come under high risk category.
  • Women with preexisting conditions like Hypertension, Diabetes mellitus, Cardiac disease, Anemia, Blood Dyscrasia, Haemoglobinopathy, Platelet disorders and Liver problems.
  • Women with a history of thromboembolism (obstruction of a blood vessel by a blood clot that has become dislodged from another site in the circulation), strokes, myocardial infarction.
  • Some women who have autoimmune diseases, thyroid, other endocrine disorders, renal disorders
  • Lifestyle choices like smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol, substance abuse and obesity.
  • Women with neurological problems like epilepsy, brain tumours, multiple sclerosis, cerebral venous thrombosis and psychiatric illness.

What You Can Do to Ensure a Safe Delivery

If you are expecting a baby or want to have one in the future, there are some guidelines to be followed for a safe, healthy pregnancy and delivery-
  • Schedule a preconception appointment Ÿ?? if you are trying to conceive, make sure that you consult your healthcare provider. If you have a medical condition or have recently been diagnosed with one, your treatment might need to be adjusted to prepare for the pregnancy.
  • Seek prenatal care regularly Ÿ?? prenatal visits can help your healthcare provider in monitoring your health and your baby’s health.
  • Have a healthy diet – youŸ??ll need more folic acid, calcium, iron and other essential nutrients during pregnancy. A daily dosage of prenatal vitamins can help as well.
  • Gaining the right amount of weight can support the health of your baby and make it easier to shed the extra pounds after your delivery.
  • Opt for a tertiary centre as all the specialty doctors at that centre will be available and that will be beneficial to both the mother and the baby.
  • Avoid risky substances such as cigarettes and drugs. Make sure that you consult your healthcare provider before you start or stop taking any medications or supplements.

Specific Symptoms to Look Out For

If you have the following signs or symptoms during your pregnancy period, be sure to consult your doctor-
  • Vaginal bleeding
  • Decreased fetal activity
  • Pain or cramps in the lower abdomen
  • Watery vaginal discharge in a gush or a trickle
  • Regular or frequent contractions Ÿ?? a tightening sensation in the abdomen area
  • Pain or burning during urination
  • Changes in vision, including blurred vision
  • Persistent headaches
To conclude high risk pregnancy should be monitored and managed in a center with facilities available for adequate maternal and fetal care. Consultant liaison with Physicians, Neonatologists, Anesthesiologist and senior Obstetricians, optimum care can be provided for the better outcome.

All you need to know about Labor Epidurals- By Dr. Shashidhar K.B

One of the biggest confusion during pregnancy is having a normal delivery or a caesarean section. Even though every woman wants to undergo the pleasant experience of natural birth, most of them can’t stick to it because of the intense, excruciating pain.

More than half of the pregnant women can deliver vaginally, but sadly due to the labor pain, only few can go through it. But darling, if you are one of those women who want to experience the natural way of childbirth, don’t you worry. There is an Epidural for you.

What is an Epidural Anesthesia?

As the name says, Epidural Anesthesia is an anesthetic injection administrated by an anesthetist into the space around the spinal nerves (lower back). The primary objective of this procedure is to stop the sensation of pain in your body.

What is Labor Epidurals?

When Epidural Anesthesia is given to control the labor pain, it is known as Labor Epidurals. It is famously used during a natural birth or virginal birth (optionally used for caesarean section) where it effectively blocks the pain from labor contractions and facilitates the energy drained mother to move and push the baby out with ease. Epidural medications fall into the category of local anesthetics and are combined with narcotics when delivered.

How does Labor Epidurals work?

When a woman undergoes through labor, the contraction of the uterus causes the pain. Nerves carry this pain associated with labor to the spinal cord where it intensifies. The Labor Epidurals (local) blocks the nerves carrying pain sensation to the spinal cord and works as a painkiller.

How Is Epidural Administered?

  1. Before an Epidural (and during the delivery) Intravenous fluids are given to maintain blood pressure. Since an Epidural injection dilates the blood vessels, it causes the blood pressure to drop suddenly.
  2. An anesthesiologist will ask the patient to sit at the edge of the bed and arch the back in a bent position. It will increase the surface area for the administration of the injection because it opens up the spine.
  3. An antiseptic lotion/liquid is applied to the area to make it sterile.
  4. The anesthesiologist first looks for area/spaces between the spines, where he/she injects a local anesthetic to numb the skin in the area to where later the Epidural needle is inserted.
  5. A hollow Epidural needle is inserted into the numb area along. With this a thin tube is threaded through the needle. The needle is then removed, and the catheter (tube) is left behind. So that the catheter doesn’t slip, it is taped to the back.
  6. Through the tube, injections are given periodically or continuously.

Are there any risks related to Labor Epidurals?

Well, everything has a negative and a positive side. So here are few of the risks related to Labor Epidurals:

  1. Epidural injection dilates the blood vessels. This causes the blood pressure to drop suddenly.
  2. Itching and rashes may occur.
  3. Since the drug will numb the region between the waist and upper legs, this numbness is felt even after the delivery (3-4 hours). Therefore you would need assistance to walk.

At Motherhood our doctors recommend you this treatment option only after a careful examination, study, and collaboration with the experts from other fields to ensure you receive the best multidisciplinary care. Therefore, there is more than just one reason to entrust us with your health.

By Dr. Shashidhar K.B., Consultant Anaesthesiologist, Motherhood Hospital, Hebbal

Book your appointment today with our experts or send us an inquiry.

Menstruation Matters

Menstruation is a unique phenomenon in a woman’s life. It is the mark where a girl enters the womanhood and is blessed with the gift of giving life. However, this gift is always encircled by taboos that isolate women from the social and cultural life.

Till date, menstruation is described with code words such as red alert, shark week, on the rag, and so on which proves that talking about it is a taboo in the society. Therefore, such taboos make the period cycle a topic of stigma and shame to be discussed out in the open which leads to a ton of misinformation related to it. To cater to the needs of this series of misinformation, given below are answers to a few unanswered questions related to menstruation, give it a read.

Can the change of diet ease my period pain?

Well, yes. Your diet can be your friend or foe when you’re on your period. Consumption of certain foods during your periods can worsen the symptoms than usual. Try to avoid salty and spicy food or any food that can cause bloating, pain and discomfort. Hence, stick to clean and healthy food for a happy period.

Is there a way to tackle irregular periods?

A typical cycle length is of 28 days, and any changes in it mean that your cycle is unpredictable or irregular. There are many reasons for it. To have a more unobstructed view of this, we suggest you consult with your healthcare specialist.

Other than that you can maintain healthy body weight, exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet and regulate your thyroid levels to avoid such instances.

How often should I change my pad?

Be it your heavier days or lighter flow days you should change your pad every 3 or 4 hours. It is to avoid any odor from the bacteria growing in the blood.

What is the idea behind using a menstruation cup?

A menstruation cup is a flexible cup made of silicone or rubber (used inside the vagina) used to collect menstrual blood. It collects the menstrual flow rather than just absorbing it as tampons or pads do. It is gaining popularity because it is easy to use, reduces the foul odor and maintains the vaginal pH.

How do I deal with my first period?

Menarche or your very first period may not be the happiest time of your life cause of the cramps and bloating, but don’t forget that it is a stepping stone to your fertility which officially makes you a woman!

Here are a few things that you can do to make yourself more comfortable:

1. Cut back on coffee
2. Cut down on deep-fried foods
3. Consume more antioxidant-rich foods
4. Consume food rich in Iron

Even though we have come so far in the today, few things still need progress and advancement. That is why menstruation needs attention and an open conversation in the society.

ANAEMIA & CERVICAL CANCER – THE UNNOTICED KILLERS AFFECTING INDIAN WOMEN

India has been making great headway in the eradication of diseases like Polio & Small Pox but this is just the tip of the iceberg. Certain conditions like Anaemia do not get the attention they deserve. Characterized by subtle symptoms, diseases of this nature can go untreated for a long period leading to serious complications or occasionally even death. Women may be totally unaware that they are suffering from such conditions.

Anaemia in varying degrees is widely prevalent amongst Indian women. Global Nutrition Report 2017 states that about 51% of women of reproductive age in India suffer from anaemia. It is predominantly due to nutritional deficiency. Women also have to cope with blood loss during their monthly periods which can further reduce their haemoglobin levels. It is prevalent across all socioeconomic strata and is a condition that can be easily diagnosed and treated.

Anaemia characterized by low blood hemoglobin levels increases the risk of infection, preterm delivery, and suboptimal fetal growth. In infancy and early childhood, Anaemia can cause recurrent illness, failure to thrive, poor performance at school and failure to participate in physical training and games at school. Analysis by a think tank, IndiaSpend, states that anaemia has remained the leading cause of disability across the ages in India for the past 10 years. Anaemia can be easily diagnosed by a simple blood test called Complete Blood Count.

Cervical cancer is a leading cause of death from cancer amongst Indian women. It runs parallel to breast cancer in incidence. A study on cervical cancer by ASSOCHAM-National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research (NICPR) reveals India alone accounts for one-fourth of the total cervical cancer burden globally. Almost 17% of cancer-related fatalities in women between the age of 30-69 can be attributed to cervical cancer. Majority of cervical cancers in India even today are diagnosed at a late stage. There is, however, an opportunity to detect precancerous changes of the cervix at least 15 to 20 years ahead by a simple test known as the Pap Smear. This test, although widely available to the affluent classes, is not easily accessible to the lower social strata. Cervical Cancer, however, unfortunately, is more prevalent in this lesser privileged section of our society.

Simple tests such as Pap Smears & Complete Blood Count (CBC) can go a long way in not only saving the lives of many Indian women but also improving their quality of life. Due to the rapid changes in lifestyles as well as lack of awareness of such diseases, our mothers, sisters and daughters fall victim to these ‘unnoticed killers’. What is even more alarming is that due to the high cost associated with such tests many women from the underprivileged sections of our society may not have access to such lifesaving screening tests.

In an effort to create awareness amongst our women and in order to provide women from the underprivileged section of our society an opportunity to avail these tests Motherhood Women and Children hospital conducted a free medical camp for women in partnership with the Thuluva Vellala Association. Basic history, examination, blood counts, blood sugars, ECG and BP and Pap-smears test were performed and referrals to specialists were made if required. The camp was attended by more than 150 men and women. A significant number of women were benefited by the special services offered at this camp.