Introducing Vaccines to Children

Author: Dr. Nitin M MBBS, DM (Neonatology), MD (Paediatrics)
Consultant: Paediatrician & Neonatologist at Motherhood Hospital Electronic City, Bangalore

Navigating through multiple avenues of information to understand what’s really good for your child. March 2020 brought significant amounts of change to our lives. Numbers, myths, tips and reports were thrown in our faces every day. So did the information on what’s healthy, what’s not, and what really boosts our immunity. In this post-pandemic era, the credibility of data has increasingly become the need of the hour. While parents and paediatricians all over the world have taken quite a cautious stance on inoculating the young ones, it is crucial to understand how much is too much.

Why Do We Need Vaccines?

Despite tremendous progress, infectious diseases continue to contribute to a significant proportion of child mortality and morbidity in India. According to WHO, 1.5 million deaths could be avoided globally, only if children were vaccinated. More than half of the world’s most vulnerable children still miss out on the essential vaccines that they need to live healthy lives. It is important for parents to be aware of the various vaccinations their child will receive, to immunise them against certain diseases.

Some Common Vaccines For Young Children

Polio
Mumps
Rubella
Meningitis
Chicken Pox
Tuberculosis
Whooping cough
Measles
Hepatitis A
Hepatitis B
Rotavirus
Diphtheria
Tetanus

Government Initiatives

All countries in the world have an immunization programme to deliver selected vaccines to the targeted beneficiaries, especially focusing on pregnant women, infants and children, who are at a high risk of diseases preventable by vaccines. In India, the Universal Immunization Program (UIP) is one of the largest public health programmes targeting nearly 2.67 crore newborns and 2.9 crore pregnant women annually. The Government of India also frequently collaborates with international bodies like the WHO on issues related to vaccinations and viral health.

Discover our expert healthcare from the comfort of your home

Motherhood Hospitals is offering a range of services to make you healthier and happier.

Vaccinations for children

Protecting your children is essential to be able to provide them with a healthy and fulfilling life. The road to good health begins with boosting your child’s immunity and by vaccinating them to protect them from a variety of ailments. Our remote home-monitoring services by experts in children’s health are here to help you nurse your child back to health.

Flu Vaccinations at your doorstep
The pandemic has disrupted the world, or what we knew of it. Since the COVID vaccine has not yet been tested for kids, we believe a flu vaccine is the next best way to protect your child. We, at Motherhood, recognise that the most vulnerable during the third wave of the pandemic may be children, so the need of the hour is to protect them as much as we can.

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 Electronic City, Bangalore 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 Electronic City, 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.Nitin M, please book your appointment here.

The Road to Recovery

Author: Dr. Kavya Krishna Kumar MBBS, FMAS, MS
Consultant: Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital Chennai

The impact and implications of society in a post-pandemic world for new mothers, working mothers, and other primary caregivers.

The one thing in common between being a caregiver and living through the COVID-19 pandemic is that your life will never be the same again. Wading through life’s tussles with a crying baby in your arms is no easy task; ask anyone and they will agree. Dealing with postnatal anxiety, breastfeeding issues, potential sickness, the fear of running out of resources, and other such uncertainties, are part and parcel of the journey of motherhood. As we acclimatise to the new normal, here are a few things to help get you going.

Acknowledge your feelings

At a time when everything is opening up, children could be looking forward to returning to school and reconnecting with their friends and teachers. They could be excited or anxious about sports and performance arts, or as a working mom, you may feel similar jitters of nervousness about going back to work, or yet, starting out at a new workplace. Accept that all these feelings are valid, and that there are no right or wrong answers. Help your family members name their feelings that they might be feeling, truly hear them out and try to understand their point of view, so that they feel safe and validated.

Prioritize your health

Whether you are working from home or are a homemaker, ensure that you and your family are getting the right nutrition, exercise, and timely vaccinations for immunization. On days when you’re feeling anxious or overwhelmed emotionally, reach out to your loved ones for support and do not hesitate to seek the right professional help. Even something as abstract as a sense of sudden emptiness for empty nesters could lead to a legitimate health concern, if left unattended.

Postpartum depression for new mothers
Postpartum depression is the dark side of pregnancy for a lot of newly-turned moms. If you are unable to connect with the baby, the last thing you should do is blame yourself. Seeking the support of your partner, friends and family members can help you process your emotions better. If symptoms like irritability, uncontrolled crying, change in appetite, mood swings and troubled sleep show up and persist, it’s a good idea to consult a counsellor.

Rethinking what you value
If the pandemic has reminded us anything at all, it is how interdependent we all are. We’ve learnt plenty about what matters to us, who really cares about us, what’s our idea of a home, or a support system, the kind of healthcare we need, or what’s our idea of comfort. It’s now time to put all this to good use and prioritize our tasks, relationships, and goals. Better clarity on your priorities will help you to focus and be more productive in everything that you do.

Last but not the least, self-care

Hailed as the epitome of sacrifice, the quintessential Indian woman has often neglected her own needs to prioritize those of her family. However, now that we are talking about the new normal in practically every aspect of our lives, it would not hurt if women learnt to take better care of themselves without feeling apologetic about it. Whether you’re a new mom, or entering your forties, or close to retirement, there’s no better time to focus on your physical and mental health, as we usher in an era of a ‘new kind of normal’.

The good news is that many of these conditions can be managed by making healthy lifestyle choices and getting treatment on time. Exercising caution and care can go a long way when you hit the big four-oh.

At Motherhood Hospitals we have a team of experienced supers specialists backed by the latest infrastructure and facilities. We have the best gynaecologist in Chennai. 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 Chennai 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.Kavya Krishna Kumar, please book your appointment here.

Healthcare Access To Women And Children Across All Age Groups

Author: Dr. Madhushree Vijayakumar MBBS, MRCOG, FRCOG, DGO
Consultant: Obstetrician & Gynecologist at Motherhood Hospital Hebbal Bangalore

Motherhood Hospitals is a leading name in the women and children healthcare space in the country. In a single year, we have over 3,00,000 women and children visit our hospital network across the country for their healthcare needs. Our team has some of the top gynaecologists in India, safely delivering over 1000 babies a month.

During these challenging times, Motherhood Hospitals followed over 860 infection control protocols and delivered comprehensive services under the management of some of the region’s best and experienced clinicians. They are ably supported round-the-clock by best-in-class medical technologies, a Level III Neonatal ICU (NICU) with highly trained neonatologists, anaesthetists, and a qualified nursing staff in a supportive, patient-friendly ambience.

Being renowned for providing compassionate and efficient care to enhance all aspects of a woman’s life, we also pride ourselves as a leading integrated brand providing holistic care for children of all age groups in a home-like environment. Our expert gynaecologists and paediatricians are always available at every hospital-be it an any kind of emergency. Motherhood Hospitals have always been. customer-centric ensuring accessible clinical expertise 24/7, 365 days a year, along with virtual consultations.

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

Do make an appointment with the best maternity hospital in Hebbal, 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.Madhushree Vijayakumar, please book your appointment here.

Fun Diets For Early Development In Children

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

Children are most active in their early childhood. This makes healthy eating habits combined with physical activities crucial for their early development. Here are some nutritious hacks to encourage better diets for children that’ll make sure they’re never out of energy:

Cutting Out Sugar

A child can receive all necessary sugar intake from natural sources. Added sugar only brings in empty calories, causing problems like hyperactivity, mood disorders, type 2 diabetes, and much more. So what are some of the smarter alternatives?
Have a look:

Maple syrup
Mashed organic fruit
Coconut sugar

Reducing Junk Food

As most kids are attracted to junk food at some age, it is nearly impossible to hold them back from it completely. However, parents can cut down the number of times they consume junk food in a week or month, and monitor their eating habits to eliminate the intake of extra calories and sugar.

And here are some effective substitutes that can be used in the process:

Baked fries
Home-made snacks
Protein bars

Did You Know?
A report showed that 50% of baby food snacks and 83% of toddler food snacks contain added sweeteners.

Making Fruits and Vegetables More Appealing

While kids don’t always eat what’s healthy for them, it is easy to help them consume the necessary proteins with a little bit of twist. Allowing children to pick the produce is a great way to help them understand and interact with the different kinds of fruits and vegetables. It is also easier to sneak in grated or shredded vegetables into dishes for an appealing, yet healthy meal.

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.

Postpartum Depression: How To Overcome?

Author: Dr Pratima Thamke MBBS, MD, MRCOG

Obstetrician & Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital, Mumbai

Did you know? Almost 22% of new mothers suffer from postpartum depression in India.

Like any disease, postpartum anxiety and depression too is an illness that affects some new mothers where they experience emotional highs and lows adversely impacting their day-to-day life. But the good news is that it is a curable disorder and all you need to do is opt for timely care.

As they say, prevention is better than cure. So today, let’s understand everything there is to know about postpartum recovery to ensure you are equipped for any situation.

What Is Postpartum Depression?

While having a newborn is one of the most exciting moments of one’s life, it is also life-altering. It can be extremely tiring and there are situations where new mothers feel overwhelmed, which is completely okay. It’s normal. But with postpartum depression, your emotions are extreme. From a feeling of loneliness to severe mood swings, an intense sadness washes over you.

There are some people who may ignore this and chalk it off to the anxiousness of having a child, but that’s not the case. Postpartum anxiety and depression or PPD is a type of depression, which occurs post giving birth. While there is more research needed as to why some women experience this condition, the instantaneous hormone drop can be the reason.

Instead of ignoring or neglecting this condition, the priority must be to seek proper self care after pregnancy for a healthier life. And remember, you are not at fault here and you are definitely not alone. We are right here to help you out.

Symptoms of Postpartum Depression

Feeling the blues after giving birth is quite normal and may stay for about 10 days. But it is less intense and passes away on its own. With PPD, the symptoms may last for months. Therefore, keep an eye on the signs to ensure you seek help right away.

Frequent crying spells
Feeling overwhelmed
Not able to enjoy proper sleep
Loss of appetite
Severe mood swings
Feeling sad or worthless
Extreme guilt
Unable to enjoy the activities you once loved
No energy or motivation
Unable to think properly or focus
Feeling anxious around your baby
Unable to feel interested in your baby
Feeling like you don’t want your child
Negative thoughts of wanting to hurt your child

Don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor right away if you are feeling any of the symptoms as they may be able to diagnose the same and offer proper treatment.

Risks of Postpartum Anxiety and Depression

A few factors may elevate the risk of PPD and they are;

Having a history of depression
Family history of depression
If you are suffering from the premenstrual dysphoric disorder
Not enjoying your pregnancy
An unhappy relationship with your partner
If you are someone younger than the age of 20
If you have a baby with special needs

Diagnosis of Postpartum Anxiety and Depression

There is no specific test to check if you have postpartum anxiety and depression. However, your doctor will evaluate your mental and physical health condition where you may discuss your symptoms and other issues. Your doctor may want to see you for at least 2-3 weeks as a screening period before starting the treatment. You may also be asked to answer a set of questions as your responses will help your doctor determine the condition correctly. Therefore, you must always answer truthfully.

Treatment of Postpartum Anxiety and Depression

The treatment offered for PPD depends on the severity of the condition. Anti-anxiety or anti-depression medicines, psychotherapy, and support group participation are some of the most common treatment methods. If you are breastfeeding, you can still take medications. However, it is essential that you confirm with your doctor. It is essential to follow the treatment prescribed to ensure you get rid of your PPD as soon as possible.

When To See A Doctor ?

As aforementioned, if you notice any of the symptoms of PPD, make sure you visit your doctor. Other instances where you must seek professional help include;

If your symptoms last more than two weeks
You are having suicidal thoughts
You feel like harming your baby
You are unable to manage everyday situations
You are feeling extremely anxious or scared

PPD or postpartum anxiety or depression is curable. Even if your symptoms are severe, with proper treatment women will notice a major difference in just six months. However, if you are having obsessive or destructive thoughts about yourself or the baby, speak with your doctor immediately. Remember, there is nothing to be ashamed of as it is a mental health disorder and doesn’t point towards the kind of person you are.

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

Do take an appointment with the best maternity hospital in Kharghar, Mumbai 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. Pratima Thamke, please book your appointment here.

FAQ’s:

What are the essential nutrients that pregnant women need?
Essential nutrients that pregnant women need include iron, calcium, folic acid, protein, vitamin D, and omega-3 fatty acids. It is important to eat a variety of nutrient-rich foods to ensure proper nourishment during pregnancy.
How can vegetarian women ensure they are getting enough essential nutrients during pregnancy?
Generally, including lentils, beans, nuts, seeds, dairy products, and fortified cereals can help you get the essential nutrients during the pregnancy . Consult with your dietitian for expert guidance and get an individualized diet plan.
What are the best foods to eat during the first trimester of pregnancy?
Fresh fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean protein sources like lentils and chicken, and dairy products like milk and yogurt. These foods provide essential nutrients for fetal growth and development.
What are the dietary restrictions for pregnant women?
Certain foods to avoid during pregnancy are raw or undercooked meat and eggs, unpasteurized milk and dairy products, and certain types of fish that may contain high levels of mercury. It is also important to limit caffeine intake during pregnancy.
How can a doctor help pregnant women with their diet?
Doctors can help by providing guidance on meal planning and nutrition. They can also monitor the mother’s and baby’s health throughout pregnancy to ensure proper nourishment and growth.

Postnatal Care Tips Every Woman Should Follow

Pregnancy is one of the hardest yet one of the most blissful moments in every women’s life who want to be a mother. But not enough people talk about the unforeseen challenges and overwhelming amount of different kinds of emotions flowing through the veins of the mommy-to-be. And how the arrival of a newborn changes the mental and physical state of the mother.

Before giving birth, the mother’s body undergoes a great deal of change. That’s why the postnatal stage is very crucial for the mother’s health, and following some useful tips mentioned below can make the healing process faster.

Caring for Your Newborn: Essential Tips for Postpartum Baby Care

Take rest:

You probably guessed it to be here, didn’t you? I can not stress the fact enough that your body needs rest after undergoing such a big change. If you think, everything around you seems a bit out of place, let it be. It’s important to get as much rest as you can to allow your body to repair. Simply remain in bed. That is all you need to do for the first few days or even a month in certain situations.

Focus on your diet:

You do not need to prioritize exercise right away, just focus on eating healthily to maintain your current level of fitness. Avoid eating too much high-calorie food because it’s a myth that to better feed your infant, you must eat a lot of ghee and fat.

Stay hydrated:

Your body requires a lot of water because it is still recovering from childbirth. You will urinate more frequently since your body will also be shedding the fluids it stored during pregnancy. Second, breastfeeding causes you to lose liquid once more, necessitating rehydration after each feeding.

Stay physically active:

If your delivery was normal, you can begin working out right away. You can begin after a week if you underwent a Caesarean section, as staying active will help you lose pregnancy weight as well as combat stress, which is prevalent among new mothers.

If needed call the doctor:

The first several weeks after giving birth, a new mother’s body is fragile. Keep your doctor’s appointment so they may examine your cuts and sutures. Do not hesitate to visit the doctor if you have a fever, shivering, disorientation, pain, or discomfort. In the event of a C-section, you should use additional caution.

Food And Nutrition For New Moms After Childbirth

Postpartum Diet: Food to eat after delivery - Motherhood India Hopspital

The Importance of Postpartum Nutrition for New Moms

Pregnancy and childbirth cause significant physical and mental changes in a woman. Also, the thought that childbirth is the end of an entire phase of suffering, is a total myth because the postnatal stage is as hectic as the pregnancy and childbirth.

Also, the nutritional needs of a new mother who is taking care of herself, a newborn she may have should take precedence over weight loss in the immediate postpartum period. Therefore, the new mothers need to be sure to consume all the nutrients both they and the baby require.

Nutrient-Dense Foods for Postpartum Healing and Recovery

Salmon:

Salmon acts as a nutritional powerhouse in new moms as it is rich in a type of fat called DHA. The growth of your baby’s nervous system depends on DHA. DHA is present in all ,breast milk, although it is present in greater quantities in the milk of mothers who consume more DHA in their diets.

Beef:

The pregnancy cravings are a mood spoiler, aren’t they? Well, those annoying cravings stay even in the initial stage of childbirth. But the good news is, that beef doesn’t know any cravings. And Iron-rich meals, such as lean beef, might help new mothers feel more energized as it is loaded with Vitamin B-12.

Legumes:

Beans that are high in iron, especially those that are dark in color like black beans and kidney beans, are a fantastic breastfeeding food, especially for vegetarians. They provide high-quality, non-animal protein at an affordable price.

Eggs:

Eggs are a flexible food to get the protein you need each day. For breakfast, scramble a few eggs, or have an omelet and salad for dinner. To increase the amount of this crucial fatty acid in your milk, choose eggs that have been DHA-fortified.

Water:

Dehydration is a particular risk for breastfeeding mothers as it drains energy. Make sure you stay hydrated to maintain your energy levels and milk production. You can opt for juice and milk to fulfill some of your fluid needs.

Postnatal Care-First 6 Weeks Of Recovery

Postpartum Care: Caring for Your Health After Childbirth - Motherhood India Hospital

No one needs to be Sherlock to understand that, despite how exciting and amazing ,pregnancy may seem, it is one of the most challenging experiences a woman will ever have. While some people might believe that after childbirth, the challenges are over, they are not. For the mother, the postnatal stage can be just as frantic and stressful as the first two. Therefore, it’s crucial that the mother have excellent postnatal care, especially in the first six weeks following delivery.

Caring for Your Newborn in the First Few Weeks of Life

There are some things you may do to hasten your recovery, but keep in mind that every mother’s recovery is different because every pregnancy and body are distinct. So, I’ve provided some tips for postnatal self-care here for new mothers.

Breastfeeding and Nutrition: Tips for Nourishing Yourself and Your Baby

The first step to recovery is maintaining a healthy diet. Increase your intake of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and proteins. You should also drink a lot of water if you are lactating.

Rest:

To help you feel less worn out and fatigued, try to get as much sleep as you can. You will need to get as much rest as you can because your infant could not have a regular waking and sleeping schedule.

Try light and moderate exercise:

Exercising doesn’t have to be anything demanding; go for a leisurely stroll around, try breathing exercises, or pelvic floor exercises. However, when it is appropriate to begin exercising, your doctor will advise you.

Ice your perineum (for normal delivery):

Regularly ice your perineum. Specific perineal ice packs are available to buy. In the first several weeks, ice the perineum for 10 minutes at least three times per day.

Maintain hygiene:

You might have undergone a perineal tear or an episiotomy if you had a normal delivery. To avoid infection and hasten to heal, keep the wound clean and dry. Every time you use the bathroom, wash the wound with water.

If you had a cesarean, once the stitches are removed you can take a shower and a bath as usual After taking a shower, tap the wound dry and avoid using soap on it.

Consulting The Maternity Experts For Postnatal Care

Postnatal Care for Mothers and Newborns - Motherhood India Hospital

The postnatal stage which begins right after the birth of the baby is equally as crucial as pregnancy and childbirth. During this stage, the mother and the newborn needs equal care and attention, that’s why this article focuses solely on why consulting maternity experts is necessary for correct postnatal care.

Why Postnatal Care is Important and What to Expect

Given that maternal and infant death typically happens within the first few hours of giving birth, postnatal care is absolutely essential for both the mother and the newborn child. The mother must give the kid ongoing care and attention, prioritizing early and exclusive breastfeeding, sanitary skin and umbilical cord care, and keeping the newborn warm.

The mother and infant are not to be sent home during the postnatal care treatment time since the first 24 hours are crucial. Several procedures aid in lowering the danger for both the mother and the kid during these times. Prior to the mother being discharged from a medical facility, she will receive counselling and an evaluation as a part.

Navigating the Postnatal Period: Advice from Maternity Experts

Postnatal care is usually done by maternity experts. In the first few hours following birth, the situation is evaluated, and any potential issues are identified. The postnatal examination aids the medical examiner in determining whether the mother or the baby exhibits any characteristics of the disease.

Women should be made aware of how important it is to have support, prioritize postpartum visits, and schedule them on time. During these exams, it is also crucial to emphasize the significance of having a balanced diet and receiving enough rest and sleep.

Who is eligible?

Only recent mothers and their newborns are qualified for the treatment. Every new mother and her newborn child must receive postnatal care. Women who give birth in a hospital alone are not the only ones who qualify for postnatal care. Even if the mother gives birth at home, it should still be made available to her.

Any side-effects?

There are no adverse effects to the treatment because this session concentrates on educating women about caring for their newborns and spotting warning indications.

Everything You Need To Know About Postpartum Recovery

Post Delivery Care Tips for New Born Baby and Mother- Motherhood India Hospital

Understanding Postpartum Recovery: What Happens to Your Body After Childbirth

Your postpartum recovery won’t be just some days. Full recovery from the process of childbirth can take months. While many ladies feel mostly recovered by 6-8 weeks, it should take longer than this to want yourself again. During this point, you will feel like your body has turned against you. Try to not get frustrated. Remember that your body isn’t attentive to your timelines and expectations. The most effective thing you’ll do for its rest is to eat well and provides yourself with an occasion.

During this point, your hormones also are fluctuating. you will not be thinking clearly and can be more emotional. Again, give yourself time for this to pass.

Nutrition for Postpartum Recovery: Fueling Your Body for Healing and Breastfeeding

During the primary six weeks, concentrate on your body. You’ll be tired and focused on your baby, but try and notice changes in your own body. This is often vital as you heal.

As you start to feel better, resist the temptation to try and do more. Overdoing things at this time can set you back in your recovery. Focus on nourishing your body with good foods, drinking lots of water (especially if you’re breastfeeding), and getting enough rest.

Here is more of what you’ll be able to expect during your postpartum recovery.

Abdominal pain: As your uterus shrinks into its normal size and shape, you may feel pain in your abdomen (lower belly). These pains are called “afterpains.” Most of those pains are going to be dull, but some are going to be sharp.

Hormonal shifts: Besides fueling your mood swings, hormones also are chargeable for other postpartum symptoms. You’ll be sweating more, especially at nighttime after you sleep. Just ensure that your sweating isn’t among a fever.

Seeking Help: Knowing When to Contact Your Healthcare Provider for Postpartum Concerns

Pay attention to your body after the biological process. Soreness is to be expected, but not an excessive amount of pain. Don’t be so committed to caring for your baby that you just ignore your health.