ECTOPIC PREGNANCY

By Dr. Suhasini Inamdhar

An ectopic pregnancy is an early pregnancy that occurs outside of the normal location (uterine lining) for a developing pregnancy. The vast majority of ectopic pregnancies are so-called tubal pregnancies and occur in the Fallopian tube. An ectopic pregnancy occurs in about one in 1%-2% of all pregnancies.

These other places can be:

1) Fallopian tubes
2) Ovaries
3) Cervix
4) Cornua of uterus
5) Abdominal Cavity

The major health risk of ectopic pregnancy is rupture leading to internal bleeding. Before the 19th century, the mortality rate (death rate) from ectopic pregnancies exceeded 50%. Statistics suggest that with current advances in early detection, the mortality rate has improved to less than five in 10,000. The survival rate from ectopic pregnancies is improving even though the incidence of ectopic pregnancies is also increasing. The major reason for a poor outcome is failure to seek early medical attention. Ectopic pregnancy remains the leading cause of pregnancy-related death in the first trimester of pregnancy.

Causes of Ectopic pregnancy:
1)LAZY EMBRYO

The embryo does not travel till the cavity of uterus, but gets attached in the ovary, tube or cornua of uterus .
2) PELVIC INFLAMMATORY DISEASE (PID) : infection because of :

1) chlamydia,
2) bacteria
3) acute appendicitis
4) recurrent D & C/ MTP
5) pelvic surgery

inflammation of the pelvis sets in and the fallopian tubes get damaged, form adhesions, get partially /completely blocked and impede the movement of embryo. This makes embryo to get settled in the tube.

3) ENDOMETRIOSIS
Here the anatomy of Fallopian Tubes and Pelvis gets distorted and tubes do not function to the full potential.

4) TUBAL LIGATION OR REVERSAL OF THE SAME
Family planning procedure where the tubes are tied sometimes fails and this can lead to partial blockage of tubes.
5) IUCD
It is sometimes the cause of genital tract infection and can lead to damaged tubes.

6) PREVIOUS ECTOPIC PREGNANCY

7) EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTIVE PILL
Here the egg is already fertilised and it’s movement is hampered because of change in the hormonal miluea
8) PROGESTERONE ONLY PILL (MINI PILL)
Here the mucus membrane of tubes gets altered and the motility of tube also is affected
9)CIGARETTE SMOKING
It is known to increase the level of protein PROKR1 in the fallopian tube and this protein is known to help in implantation of embryo.
Please remember: ectopic pregnancy is not your fault and it just happens, one needs to be vigilant and aware.

By,
Suhasini Inamdar

7 Strategies to Help a Couple Support Each Other When Struggling With Infertility

7 Strategies to Help a Couple Support Each Other When Struggling With Infertility

Dealing with infertility can be one of the most difficult challenges a couple can face in their relationship. The emotional impact of infertility can take its toll on each partner, diminishing their self-esteem and making them feel like they have no control over their life. For women, especially, medication and procedures can make them feel like their body isnŸ??t their own anymore. To add to this, couples also have to deal with the financial burden of infertility as well as work-related stress. But instead of crumbling under the pressure of understanding infertility and its implications, couples can use this as an opportunity to strengthen their bond. Here are a few ways for partners to support each other while they embark on their journey to conception.

1.Understand how each of you is coping

Most men and women cope with the stress of infertility in a completely different way. Women prefer to voice their anxieties and speak at length about their emotions with their partner, family and a close circle of friends. In a lot of cases, men are the polar opposite. When men feel upset or anxious about infertility, they tend to internalise their emotions and try to work through it by themselves. This can make their partner feel like theyŸ??re aloof and disinterested. Understanding how each of you is dealing with infertility can go a long way in avoiding miscommunications and resentment. Try to have an open, honest conversation with each other so you can understand the other better instead of reaching conclusions on your own.

2.Openly discuss your feelings-but choose your words carefully

ItŸ??s completely normal for couples to experience feelings of inadequacy and guilt when coping with infertility. However, a lot of times, these emotions can be expressed instead as anger and resentment. When there is a lack of communication about infertility, marriage problems can often arise. This is why you should try to talk about your feelings honestly with your partner. But even while you have an open conversation, itŸ??s important that you carefully think about your words and the impact that they might have. Using phrases like Ÿ??you neverŸ? and Ÿ??you alwaysŸ?? can make your partner feel attacked and distract from the matter at hand.

3.Go to all your doctor’s appointments together

Dealing with infertility as well as the emotional and physical stress which come with it can often be a very isolating experience. Societal conditioning can make women feel like infertility is their fault and that their body has betrayed them. Infertility can also make men believe that they arenŸ??t as virile or Ÿ??manlyŸ??. But throughout this emotional turmoil, itŸ??s important for a couple to remember that they are in this together. Being able to lean on each other can be the best way to face infertility head-on. One of the most effective ways to do this is by going to every doctorŸ??s appointment together. Even if both partners arenŸ??t required for the procedure, simply being there will help the other person feel like they have unconditional support.

4.Share the burden of daily chores equally

When theyŸ??re already dealing with stress due to infertility, additional burdens can often be too much for a couple to bear. Much too often, women do the bulk of the housework as well as daily chores like grocery shopping and picking up the dry cleaning. During fertility treatments, they also often go through the most number of procedures and medication. Both of these can affect a womanŸ??s mental and physical strength. In these situations, itŸ??s important that men realise what their partner is going through and try to lighten their load as much as possible. This means cleaning the house, cooking meals and simply being there for their partner when she needs it.

5.Express your admiration for each other

Self-esteem can often take a massive hit when a couple goes through the struggle of infertility. Both partners tend to feel inadequate and are riddled with feelings of guilt and insecurity. For women, infertility procedures and medication can worsen things because they can make her feel like her body is being violated. The side-effects of these procedures and the pain can also make a woman feel unattractive and less womanly. At times like these, both partners need to constantly reaffirm their love for each other and express their admiration for the person that they are. Just by frequently complimenting your partner, you can help your partner rebuild their sense of self-worth.

6.Find stress-busting activities to do together

Finding productive outlets for stress can help prevent it from building up and turning into anger. Stress is almost always the reason why couples become impatient with each other and constantly bicker when theyŸ??re dealing with infertility. Instead of allowing stress to consume their relationship, couples can use this as an opportunity to come closer. Stress-relieving activities like yoga, meditation and even working out together can kill stress and give couples a fun way to bond with each other.< 7.Make an effort to increase intimacy

Even though sex is the most important aspect of conception, ironically, itŸ??s often the first thing to take a hit when a couple is confronted with infertility. Because of what it represents, sex can often remind couples of their failure to conceive. Sex can also become difficult when youŸ??re trying hard to get pregnant because almost every aspect of it becomes monitored. Both partners can feel like there is no emotional connection anymore and often lose their sex drive. Men can also experience erectile dysfunction if they feel too pressured to perform. This is why itŸ??s important that couples take time out to increase feelings of intimacy through romantic gestures. They should also try to have sex during non-ovulation days, so they donŸ??t feel burdened by the pressure to conceive.

At Motherhood IVF, we understand that infertility can be demanding, emotionally stressful and physically draining for every couple. This is why our comprehensive infertility treatments include counselling to make the journey to conception easier for you. Visit Motherhood IVF today and take the first step towards your dream of becoming a parent.

 

9 Strategies to Help You Cope With Stress Due to Infertility

Dealing with the struggle of infertility is often one of the most physically and emotionally exhausting ordeals of a personŸ??s life. The feeling of losing control over your body and your future can be extremely stressful. This is also very harmful because stress is one of the biggest risk factors to avoid when youŸ??re trying to get pregnant. To break the vicious cycle of stress and infertility, here are a few coping strategies every couple should know about.

1.Vocalise Your Feelings

Many people dealing with infertility try to suppress their emotions and carry on like nothing is wrong. However, the more you try to push down your thoughts, the more they will threaten to resurface. Instead of staying in denial, speak about your emotions openly so you can start confronting them head-on. Vocalising your feelings will help you understand what youŸ??re going through and might even help you tackle irrational thoughts. Getting these feelings of negativity out of your system is crucial to managing your stress levels.

2.Be Honest With Your Partner

The fear of not being able to have a child of their own can put unimaginable stress on a coupleŸ??s relationship. Feelings of inadequacy, guilt, anger and resentment are not uncommon when dealing with infertility. You and your partner might also deal with your grief in different ways, further widening the rift between you two. But, however difficult the journey to conception might be, itŸ??s important that you and your partner remember that youŸ??re in this together. Encouraging an open conversation with your partner and learning to support each other can make this entire ordeal a lot easier to bear.

3.Ask Questions to Clear Up Your Doubts

Nothing can worsen your stress more than misinformation and uncertainties. To make sure you get accurate information, itŸ??s important that you donŸ??t hesitate to ask your doctor questions. Keep a notebook to write down any doubts you have as soon as they cross your mind. Being fully informed about your condition and treatment options available helps you prepare yourself emotionally.

4.Don’t Feel Guilty About Your Emotions

Have you ever felt resentful about a friendŸ??s pregnancy announcement only to feel ashamed of your reaction? Feeling guilty about your emotions can compound your stress to a huge extent. Instead, be honest with yourself about how you are feeling and accept your inner thoughts. It is completely normal to experience resentment, anger and jealousy while dealing with infertility, so donŸ??t try to ignore these emotions. DonŸ??t hesitate to remove yourself from situations that can trigger negative thoughts if it helps you maintain your emotional balance. Many women even find it helpful to go off social media to avoid seeing pictures of their friendŸ??s babies.

5.Write Down Your Thoughts

A journal can be the perfect way to vent your feelings in private, without fear of hurting anyone or being judged. Your journal can also help you keep track of important dates, medication and nutritional guidelines, so you donŸ??t feel overwhelmed. Whenever you feel the stress creeping in, pen down your thoughts in your private journal to get them off your mind. Many therapists recommend writing a little every day, so you donŸ??t repress any negative emotions.

6.Build a Strong Support System

Dealing with infertility is not a journey anyone can undertake on their own. Infertility treatments take a toll on your body and your emotional well-being. Having a strong support system in place is essential to help you cope with the stress. Communicate openly with your partner, your family and your close friends to help them understand infertility and exactly what youŸ??re going through. DonŸ??t be afraid to ask them for support when you need it because they want the best for you.

7.Find a Hobby You Love

When you are undergoing treatment, it can often feel like your life is revolving around the issue of infertility. Everything you do, from what you eat to the medication you take is related to your fertility struggles. You might not feel like you have time, but itŸ??s very important that you do something just for yourself that makes you happy. Things like dance classes, yoga, and even pottery can give you something to look forward to every day.

8.Start Meditating

Taking just a few minutes of each day to sit in silence and meditate can go a long way in improving your state of mind. Meditation helps you gain perspective and keeps you feeling positive. You can choose a guided meditation if you have never done it before or just sit in complete silence for at least 15 minutes. After doing this every day, you will be surprised to feel your stress levels drop.

9.Take Care of Your Diet

When you are dealing with infertility, it can often feel like everything is out of your control. However, your diet is one thing that you have complete control over. A healthy diet is not only important to support your treatment, but it can also play a significant role in improving your mood. Eat plenty of fresh fruits, healthy fats and whole fibres to reduce your stress through your plate.

These coping strategies can help you manage your stress levels when you are going through fertility treatments. At Motherhood, we understand the emotional impact infertility can have on your life. This is why, in addition to the latest advancements in infertility treatment, we also offer prenatal counselling to make this journey easier.

The Most Common Causes of Infertility in Women and Men

For any couple trying to start a family, an infertility diagnosis can be shattering. Most doctors recommend couples visit a fertility specialist if they havenŸ??t been able to conceive even after a year of unprotected sex. For women above 35, this duration falls to six months. In India, infertility has become a growing cause for concern. Going by current estimates, around 1 in 5 Indian couples will experience problems with infertility. Understanding infertility could help couples take steps to manage their condition. Here are the most common causes of infertility faced by men and women today.

Causes of Male Infertility

Historically, the reasons for infertility have always been attributed to women. However, male and female factors contribute to infertility equally at 40 percent. In the remaining number of cases, there are usually issues with both. Male infertility is often more difficult to diagnose than female infertility because symptoms do not show up early. The following are the most common causes of male infertility.

1.Varicoceles

Varicoceles are enlarged veins in the scrotum which can lead to complications with normal sperm production. It is one of the most common causes of male infertility, but luckily, is also reversible. Most infertility specialists believe that the reason why varicoceles can lead to infertility is because they raise the internal temperature of the scrotum. Since sperm requires an optimal temperature to develop normally, any fluctuation can cause abnormalities. Varicoceles have been linked to low sperm count, sperm morphology and sperm quality.

2.Retrograde ejaculation

Even if a man has healthy sperm, problems with ejaculation can prevent conception. Retrograde ejaculation, also known as dry ejaculation, occurs when semen enters the bladder during orgasm instead of coming out of the penis. There are several factors which can lead to retrograde ejaculation including damage to the spinal cord, previous surgical procedures and diabetes. If a man has healthy sperm despite experiencing retrograde ejaculation, they can be extracted and used for artificial insemination.

3.Tubal issues

Sperm travels through many different tubes before it finally exits the penis at the time of ejaculation. If any of these tubes are blocked, it might lead to low sperm count and as a result, infertility. Deformities or a complete absence of the vas deferens is one of the main reasons for sperm blockage and can be a congenital disability or due to physical trauma. Other tubules which might cause blockages include the epididymis, the urethra and the ejaculatory ducts. Previous surgeries, infections and cysts are some of the common reasons for abnormalities within the tubules.

4.Infections

Infections, especially those that are left untreated for a long time, can cause significant damage to the sperm and tubes. STIs such as gonorrhoea can cause inflammation of the testicles as well as the epididymis (the tube which carries sperm from the testicles to the vas deferens). HIV can also create complications with healthy sperm production and transport.

5.Lifestyle factors

One of the main causes of male infertility is unhealthy lifestyle choices. Smoking is one of the most widespread causes of male infertility. Currently, around 17% of the population in India smokes, contributing to a growing number of cases of male infertility. Obesity, excessive alcohol consumption and recreational drugs can also affect sperm count and quality. Additionally, bodybuilding supplements have been linked to low fertility levels among men. Exposure to environmental factors such as heavy metals, harmful chemicals and radiation can also affect fertility.

Causes of Infertility in Women

Infertility in women can sometimes be detected early on because it can result from hormonal disruptions. Apart from hormonal factors, there are also multiple other factors which can cause infertility in women. These are the most common causes of infertility in women.

1.Endometriosis

One of the first symptoms of endometriosis is heavy and painful periods. During normal menstruation, the uterine lining formed in anticipation of pregnancy sheds and is removed from the body. However, when a woman has endometriosis, the uterine lining does not completely shed. Instead, it attaches to other parts of the body. Endometriosis is one of the most common causes of infertility in women, accounting for around 30-50 percent of all cases of female infertility.

2.Irregular periods

If a woman regularly experiences irregular periods, then ovulation cycles can be unpredictable. PCOS (Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome) is one of the most common reasons for irregular periods in women and is also a major cause of female infertility. Apart from irregular periods, PCOS is also marked by excessive weight gain, painful periods, abnormal hair growth and skin disorders. Irregular periods can also be due to stress, emotional issues, sudden weight loss or weight gain.

3.Age

Age is one of the biggest concerns for women trying to get pregnant because it can affect the quality of eggs. After 35, every passing year can lead to further deterioration in egg quality. Even if a woman hasnŸ??t hit menopause, she might still have issues getting pregnant. With age, the increase in the risk of a miscarriage is also much higher.

4.Fallopian tube issues

After an egg is fertilised by a sperm, it needs to travel through the fallopian tube to reach the uterus. If there are issues with the fallopian tube, it can severely impact a womanŸ??s chances of conceiving. Infections, including STIs, can lead to scarring in the fallopian tube, especially if they are left untreated for a long time. Endometriosis can also lead to deformities in the tube. Additionally, previous surgeries or an ectopic pregnancy might cause irreversible damage.

5.Lifestyle factors

Smoking has as big an impact on female infertility as it does on male infertility. Miscarriages are found to be more common among women who have a history of smoking. Recreational drugs like marijuana can also prevent conception. To add to that, overweight or underweight women might face issues with fertility. Women who are long-time users of birth control pills might also have trouble conceiving because these drugs interfere with the bodyŸ??s normal hormone production.

Apart from these common causes of infertility, there are many other specific causes which can affect men and women. However, a diagnosis of infertility does not have to put an end to your dreams of becoming a parent. At Motherhood IVF, we offer you the latest advancements in infertility treatment along with our years of expertise to help you experience the joy of parenthood.

Skin and hair care in monsoon by Dr Arun Kumar

Natural immune resistance in the body is decreased during monsoon. Apart from common infections like flu, common cold, dysentery asthma, skin problems like the allergic rash, atopic dermatitis, dry skin eczema, fungal infections, acne, prickly heat are common. Dry scalp, dandruff, itchy scalp, hair fall are common too.

Damp and humid weather in monsoon, attracts more microbes and fungi, resulting in skin rashes to ringworm etc. The season tends to infect the air, atmosphere surroundings, foods, and drinks. While skin changes during pregnancy are common, your skin and hair are also affected from the harsh treatment of the moist humid rainy weather.

Skin care in monsoon:

  • Drink lots of water, 2-3 liters per day, water consumption hydrates your body and flushes out all the unwanted toxins.
    • Use a soap free cleanser for washing your face, wash gently 2-3 times a day.
    • Mild organic face scrubs twice a week.
    • Dap dry the face, body, towel usage roughens the skin.
    • Alcohol-free toner to maintain PH balance.
    • The humidity leads to dry skin, use a nourishing moisturizer to keep your skin soft supple and healthy.
    • Use a water based moisturizer for oily skin.
    • Use a reliable sunscreen with a good SPF, it may be cloudy but that doesn’t stop sun’s UV rays causing skin damage.
    • The homemade facial pack is preferred.
    • Waterproof light makeups are the better choice.
    • Prevent the lip cracking moisturizing lip balm with SPF.
    • Apply moisturizer twice a day for the entire body.
    • Facial and bleaching should be avoided or at least limited as it makes the skin rough.

Hair care in Monsoon

  • Monsoon is the time of humidity which creates itchiness on the scalp. It is recommended to have a warm coconut oil massage which will help to get rid of itchiness. If there is dandruff in the scalp, massage with neem oil.
    • Mild anti dandruff shampoo diluted 1:1 ratio in water weekly once or twice to clean the scalp.
    • Prevent the hair from getting drenched in rain, but if does happen it is best to shampoo the hair as soon as possible and then dry them.
    • Monsoon season demands a conditioner after a mild gentle shampoo.
    • Hair coloring must be avoided during the rainy season.
    • Natural herbal products are better than heavy chemical shampoos in rains as they help to maintain the shine and natural look of the hair.
    • Try the hairstyles that are more natural in look than elaborate ones.
    • Avoid blow dryers and try to dry hair with a towel to retain the moisture.

Some do’s and don’ts to tackle fungal infection

DO’s

  • Regular bathing, body cleaning is the must..
  • Before wearing clothes, drying out the folds area to prevent excess moisture wearing loose fitting clothes.
  • Laundering clothes of an infected person in hot water and washing with the antiseptic agent.
  • Drying clothes in sunlight for at least 2 hours wearing clothes after ironing them and placing them separately.
  • Washing your hands with anti-septic and water frequently. Keeping hair, nails and scalp clean.
  • Wearing well ventilated shoes with cotton socks not sharing comb and other utilities with other family members.

DONT S

  • Occasional bathing using towel used by other members of the family wearing clothes immediately after bath washing personal clothes with family members clothes.
  • Wearing clothes dried under the fan and without ironing them, wearing tight jeans, leggings, sharing comb and other utilities with family members.
  • Scratching on lesions and not washing hands, keeping hair, nails, and scalp filthy walking barefoot in public places.

Endometriosis & It’s Effect On Fertility

The most common complication of endometriosis is infertility and couples often find out about the problem when they take up tests to check fertility status. The relationship between endometriosis and infertility has been the topic of much debate. Research has shown that infertile women are six to eight times more likely to have endometriosis than fertile women. Some of the explanations given for decreased fertility in women suffering from this disorder include distorted pelvic anatomy, endocrine and ovulatory abnormalities, altered peritoneal and tubal function, altered hormonal and cell-mediated functions in the endometrium.

Based on common observations during laparoscopy, it has been found that the cysts and adhesions caused by the disease can lead to changes in anatomy of the pelvic organs. This impairs the fertilization process and in turn affects the release of eggs, thus leading to infertility.

Many women with mild to moderate endometriosis are able to conceive and carry a pregnancy to term. Doctors may advise women with endometriosis not to delay having children as the condition is likely to get worse over time. Interestingly the symptoms of endometriosis, especially pain, seem to disappear in women who are pregnant or breastfeeding.

Pregnancy Myths By Dr.Beena Jeysingh

Plethora of advices about Do s and DonŸ??ts in pregnancy start flowing in from friends and relatives. Some frequently asked doubts.
Can I travel by flight during first and last trimester?
Yes, surely you can fly in any trimester of pregnancy but airlines limit the weeks of travel as they are worried in last trimester about labour during travel which will cause concern and inconvenience.

Does applying cocoa butter prevents stretch marks?
No, it may cause allergic reactions to sensitive skin.

Can I continue waxing, pedicure, manicure, dyeing hair?
Yes, you can continue enjoying them but a word of caution not to try any new products for fear of allergy and herbal stuff is preferable

Does walking start labour?
No, it makes you feel better but no activity can start labour

Can I drink coffee?
Yes, you can relax with one cup a day, it will not harm your baby

By
Dr.Beena Jeysingh

The Common Cold in Children

Cold is the most common reason for a pediatric office visit. ItŸ??s responsible for a childŸ??s absence from school & parentŸ??s staying away from work.

Let us try to understand this common illness in the next few paragraphs.

What causes a Cold?

Ÿ??ColdŸ? is a group of symptoms caused by a number of viruses.Over a hundred viruses may be responsible. Therefore a child may be affected multiple times each year.

Children under 6 years of age may average 6-8 colds per year. Children in daycare appear to suffer from cold more commonly. The frequency of such episodes may decrease by the time they reach primary school.Episodes of cold may be more in children as they are still developing their immunity.

Colds may occur at any time of the year. Transmission occurs from one person to another directly or due to viruses in the environment. Colds tend to be more contagious during the first two to four days.

Contact Ÿ?? Cold virus may survive on the skin for upto 2 hrs & on surfaces (such as door handles, toys ) for upto a day. Infection can spread by touching such objects& then touching the nose, eyes, mouth of the uninfected.

Inhalation– Droplets containing virus or viral particles are released by coughing & during exhalation. However it is not usually transmitted by this route.

What are the symptoms?

Signs & symptoms usually show up a day or two after exposure. Nasal congestion & discharge are the most common symptoms. Discharge can be clear, yellow or green. Fever may be present during the initial phase. Other symptoms include: Sore throat, cough, difficulty in sleeping and decreased appetite. The glands in the neck may be enlarged. Symptoms may continue for up to 2 weeks and are usually worst during first 10 days. A second cold may sometimes superimpose and extend the period of sickness.

What are the complications?

Ear infections, wheezing, sinusitis & pneumonia are the common complications.

Ear infections: If a child develops fever after the initial phase of illness or fever continues for a prolonged period (beyond 3 days) ear infection can be suspected.

Wheezing: Children may develop wheezing even if they have not wheezed before. Colds may worsen asthma.

Sinusitis: If nasal congestion does not improve does not improve over 10 days then sinusitis may be suspected.

Pneumonia: Late onset of fever or prolonged fever may suggest pneumonia, especially if the child has signs of breathing difficulty.

How do you manage?

Treatment of cold is usually symptomatic:

  • Anti-histamines, decongestants and cough expectorants have been used with adults.
  • Improve symptoms of nasal congestion. Saline nose drops may be used to thin mucus.
  • Suction can be used to remove secretions. Adequate amounts of fluids must be taken. Honey can be used in children older than one year. Antibiotics are not effective in treating colds but may be used if complications are suspected.
  • Vitamin C used preventive may decrease the duration of cold.

How to prevent:

Hand hygiene:

  • Maintaining hand hygiene either by washing with soap and water or by using alcohol based hand rub.
  • Avoid contact of child with people who are ill.
  • Clean surfaces with household cleaner eg. Lysol

Danger Signs:

Seek immediate help in the presence of the following symptoms.

  • Prolonged refusal of feeds
  • Excessive irritability or lethargy
  • Difficulty in breathing or rapid breathing
  • Fever lasting more than 3 days
  • Prolonged nasal congestion (more than 10-15 days)
  • Ear pain & other signs of infection

10 More Vegetarian Superfoods For Pregnant Women

In our earlier blog, we had discussed the top 10 Superfoods for Vegetarians. These are 10 more Super Rich & Nutritious foods that make a remarkable impact on your health. Pregnancy is the most beautiful feeling any woman can ever experience. Throughout the three trimesters, your body floods out various hormones to adjust to bearing and nurture a new life within.

Along with healthy food, regular exercise can prevent the risk of birth defects and depression. Low iron levels can cause lethargy during pregnancy. Hence, Vegetarians need to take efforts persistently to include the below mentioned superfoods to account for the nutrients quintessentially required to meet the needs of the developing fetus as well as the energy requirements of the mother.

 

1)Tofu

Essential Nutrients: Packed with protein, iron, calcium, magnesium, vitamin A and vitamin K.

Health Benefits: Essential for normal blood clotting, particularly after the birth, helps in building essential cells that forms vital body organs.

2)Avocado

Essential Nutrients: Powered with protein, folic acid, potassium, vitamin C, and vitamin B6, high calories.

Health Benefits: Helps in forming your baby’s brain and nervous system, building up tissues, helps to combat morning sickness. The high calorie helps those who want to gain weight during pregnancy.

3)Cereal

Essential Nutrients: Power house of energy, folic acid, fibre and vitamin B.

Health Benefits: Fortified cereals make great for an energetic breakfast. You need energy as you progress through your trimesters to support your child as well.

4)Cabbage

Essential Nutrients: Wholesome goodness of thiamin, folic acid, vitamin E, A, B6, C, K, calcium, magnesium, manganese, phosphorus, potassium, fibre & iron.

Health Benefits: These vitamins aid in healthy breast-milk production. Chilled cabbage leaves placed in your bra help to soothe sore breasts during & after pregnancy. Magnesium improves blood flow.

5)Chickpeas

Essential Nutrients: Rich in calcium, magnesium, zinc and folic acid.

Health Benefits: Hummous (made from chickpeas) with peta bread makes a tasty snack. Fibre balances glucose levels; iron helps combat anaemia.Folic acid is vital for baby’s development.

6)Oils and Fats

Essential Nutrients: Entails omega-3 and omega-6 fatty acids, antioxidants.

Health Benefits: Quintessential for cell function, brain and eye development.Go for the extra virgin olive oil. it lowers blood pressure and improves cardiovascular health by providing protection against heart disease, depression, cancer, high cholesterol and dementia.

7)Oatmeal

Essential Nutrients: Packed with fiber, protein and vitamin B6. It can be fortified with iron & folic acid.

Health Benefits: Whole grains containing complex carbohydrates that release energy slowly after you have eaten it. A bowl of oatmeal or porridge is a great start to the day and will help combat any fatigue which sets in mid-morning.

8)Tomatoes

Essential Nutrients: Contains vitamins A and C.

Health Benefits: Low fat tomatoes have the ability to regulate blood sugar, reduce stress, cure headaches and even protection against gall & kidney stones.

9)Going Nuts over Nuts

Essential Nutrients: Proteins, manganese, omega-3 fatty acids, selenium, magnesium, Vitamin E.

Health Benefits: They are memory-boosting foods, helps development of child’s brain and eyes, reduced risk of premature baby. Indulge guilt-free in almonds, walnuts, flax seeds, reduced risk of heart diseases.

10)Whole Wheat

Essential Nutrients: Plentiful of iron, fiber, Vitamin B complex and protein.

Health Benefits: Along with energy boost to the body, it releases energy from muscles, iron fights anemia & eases constipation. Brown rice & millets are considered a healthier option.

Everything you need to know about PCOS

What is PCOS or PCOD?

Polycystic ovary syndrome (sometimes sadly referred to as disease) is a problem in which a woman’s hormones are out of balance. It can cause problems with oneŸ??s periods and make it difficult to get pregnant. PCOS also may cause unwanted changes in the way you look. If it isn’t treated, over time it can lead to serious health problems, such as diabetes, heart disease and even cancers!

Most women with PCOS grow many small cysts on their ovaries. That is why it is called polycystic ovary syndrome. The cysts themselves are not harmful, but lead to hormone imbalances.

Did you know that symptoms of PCOS persist even when both the ovaries are removed?
The root cause of the problem is the brain, the hormone regulation centre at hypothalamus, with involvement of multiple organs (Multi-system disease).

Some of the symptoms
  • Acne.
  • Weight gain and trouble losing weight.
  • Extra hair on the face and body. Often women get thicker and darker facial hair and more hair on the chest, belly, and back.
  • Thinning hair on the scalp.
  • Irregular periods. Often women with PCOS have fewer than nine periods a year. Some women have no periods. Others have very heavy bleeding.
  • Fertility problems. Many women who have PCOS have trouble getting pregnant (infertility).
  • Depression.

As if it was not bad enough, it increases your chances of developing a big disease later on in life, like full-blown diabetes, autoimmune thyroid disease and even cancers. Today I want to spread the awareness about Bio-cycle study. You can read the whole study in the oxford journal but the conclusion is here: If you have a hormonal imbalance in your 20s or 30s,( like pcos, irregular painful periods, or even something as small as PMS, it significantly increases your chances of developing a big disease of inflammation in the later life(40,s and 50,s) like diabetes, autoimmune thyroid disease and some form of cancers!

The BioCycle Study – Influence of Endogenous Reproductive Hormones on F2-Isoprostane Levels in Premenopausal Women.

The Treatment

The western medicine today, deals with identifying and treating the symptoms around PCOS. But these spot treatment are at best described as bind-aid solutions to a much deeper problem that gets worse not only due to the ignorance of the root cause but also as side-effects of these symptomatic treatments over long periods of time.

If you have been diagnosed with PCOS, chances are you have been prescribed to Birth Control Pills or OCŸ??s (oral contraceptives) for regularising hormone cycles and hence periods and metformin for elevated blood sugars or pre/diabetic conditions. All in an attempt to masking the symptoms BUT they come back in a worse form once synthetic hormones are stopped.

Lets have a look at these two so that you can get to the root of the problem and avoid potential side effects of these.

Birth Control Pill

What it does:

The synthetic hormones in the birth control mask your natural hormonal patterns to prevent ovulation from happening, and therefore prevent pregnancy. The menstrual period you experience on the pill is not an acutal period, but rather a Ÿ??break-through bleedŸ? that occurs from the drop in estrogen. So even though it might be regulating your cycle, once you get off the pill chances are your period will return to the same state is was before and mostly it gets even worse.

Side effects:

Off the several side-effects, one side effect most relevant to PCOS is that it increases testosterone uptake, which can make your androgenic symptoms worse. This means if youŸ??re experiencing hirsutism (hair growth in unwanted places), head-hair loss, or acne, it could potentially get worse with the pill.

Alternative solutions:

Re-establish your monthly ovulation and menstruation through restoring key micronutrients and helping your body to eliminate excess estrogen or other hormones that could be impeding your natural flow. Addressing adrenal fatigue and thyroid issues is also key here. And the great news is – all of these can be achieved via our program.

Metformin (Glucophage)

What it does:

Metformin helps with blood sugar and insulin management by suppressing glucose production by the liver. ItŸ??s commonly used for diabetes and PCOS with insulin resistance.

Side effects:

In a recent study, metformin was found to cause an impairment mental cognition. ItŸ??s more commonly known to cause serious digestive issues like gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation, and more uncomfortable symptoms.

Alternative solutions:

Address your blood sugar balance through your diet and key supplements as I teach you in the program.

Not only they do not help, they damage your body in the long run!

If you are diagnosed with PCOS and you have been offered a prescription of birth control pills & synthetic hormones, PLEASE STOP!

The advice to lose weight & exercise more does not completely work either. They say that you should lose weight to be healthy but I say that you should be healthy to lose weight. I am sure you can relate to that. I am not here to criticize any system, and each kind of treatment has its own role.

Conclusion

Very often youŸ??ll be told that the only thing you can do is take a pill, but I hope this article has opened your eyes to other possibilities and helped give you your power back when it comes to making informed decisions about treating your PCOS symptoms.

There is no quick fix to treating PCOS. It is a systemic issues that needs to be managed through diet and lifestyle and holistic approach

If youŸ??re ready to get to the bottom of your hormonal imbalances once and for all, let me help you. Your body CAN work for you .Stop suffering. Start feeling good all month long.

My thoughts

I believe it is my responsibility to share what IŸ??ve learnt so that you and many others are not held back by PCOS & hormone imbalances, but rather use it as a way to improve your lives. I want to empower you.
I want you to be the captain of your own ship because I know that if we take the necessary steps, we can improve not only our own lives, but those of our family, community & the world at large.

Ÿ??The journey of a thousand miles begins with a single stepŸ??
I will be glad if you choose to take that first step with me.

Wishing you health & happiness!

Content Credits Dr. Disha Sridhar