COVID Vaccination & Baby Care post pregnancy

COVID-19 pandemic and vaccination:

COVID-19 is leaving a significant impact on social, economic, and medical fronts worldwide. Older adults and many other age groups with existing conditions are at higher risk of COVID-19 and its morbidities. Very few cases of COVID-19 are reported in newborn babies. At present, there’s no concrete evidence of vertical transmission of COVID-19 from the infected pregnant ladies to their foetuses. Studies even see no traces of the virus in the samples of breastmilk. Studies, however, warrant preventive measures and sanitary protocols while handling the cases of COVID-19. To prevent the transmission of the virus from mothers to their kids, the women should observe standard protocols while carrying their munchkin or breastfeeding.?˜?˜

Are there any risks of COVID-19 vaccination in pregnancy?

A safe vaccine presents itself such that its benefits can outweigh the risks. However, pregnant women need to take the vaccine under obstetric guidance. While taking the vaccine, pregnant women and their obstetricians should oversee the symptoms and medical history. If a pregnant woman has any existing conditions, it may be important to stay under clinical supervision. The vaccines, however, may help safeguard both mother and her child from any future issues. The mother should consider taking as many doses as recommended by the obstetrician. You should wear a mask and maintain social distancing as you previously did even after receiving vaccinations.

How does COVID-19 complicate the pregnancy?

Some women with COVID-19 may develop severe symptoms. Compared with nonpregnant counterparts, women with COVID-19:

  1. might be 3 times more likely to be treated at the ICU
  2. may require advanced life support and a breathing tube
  3. Might have a very low risk of death due to COVID-19

What types of symptoms/conditions can complicate the incidence of COVID-19 in pregnant women?

The risk of COVID-19 infection itself depends upon a pregnant lady coming into contact with someone with COVID-19. You may be at a higher risk of infection specifically if you live in a high-risk area or are in a profession where you come into contact with infected people more frequently. Advanced maternal age may be a risk factor for COVID-19 infection. Women with several pre-existing health conditions may be at a higher risk of infection. The health conditions may include a body mass index above 35kg/m2, heart diseases, diabetes or high blood pressure (hypertension). 

Are there any factors to consider before taking the COVID-19 vaccine in pregnancy?

Eligibility for COVID-29 vaccines may vary from area to area. Healthcare practitioners and staff members are likely to undergo the first vaccination drive. The next category to include in the vaccination drive might be people with certain health conditions, nurses, essential workers, and people above 60 years of age. Since pregnancy is one of the risk factors for severe COVID-19, the condition may make you eligible for the vaccines, depending on the region you are living in. 

Below are the factors you may consider discussing with your obstetrician or healthcare provider before taking the vaccine:

Consider taking the vaccine immediately as it’s available for you:

You must take the vaccine under various circumstances. You may consider taking the vaccine promptly if you have additional risk factors such as diabetes, advanced age, high blood pressure (hypertension), or obesity. If you are in a profession including healthcare and if you think you are at risk, take the vaccine as it becomes available to you. 

Consider waiting till childbirth to appear for the vaccination:

If your obstetrician confirms that pregnancy may be a risk factor for serious complications, you may consider taking the vaccine after childbirth. It’s beneficial provided you follow the obstetrician’s guidelines properly and uphold safety protocols actively. 

Discuss with your obstetrician if you think deferring the vaccination is important:

You may consider postponing the vaccination under various circumstances. A few pregnant women might have exceptional risk factors and uncontained exposures. The onset of the second trimester may minimize the risk of spontaneous abortion. If your obstetrician allows you, you may consider postponing the vaccination until after childbirth. 

If the benefits outweigh the risks

If your obstetrician recommends a vaccine whose benefits outweigh the risks after being infected with COVID-19, take the vaccine. However, it’s important to keep the concerned officials in the loop to get the latest updates on vaccine availability. The vaccines may be subject to availability in your vicinity depending on various factors.

Is it likely for the COVID-19 to be transmitted through breastfeeding?

Studies worldwide haven’t yet detected active COVID-19 in the breastmilk of any mother diagnosed with or suspected to carry COVID-19. Therefore, it might be highly unlikely that the breastmilk expressed by a mother with confirmed or suspected COVID-19 can transmit the virus. Researchers are still underway to confirm whether breastmilk can infect the baby with COVID-19 or not. 

Can a mother residing in containment zones opt to breastfeed her baby?

Yes, a mother can opt to breastfeed her baby owing to its lifelong health and growth benefits for the baby. Breastfeeding is known to even better the mother’s health. Contrary to the presuppositions, the studies worldwide haven’t detected any chances of breastfeeding infecting the baby. Your obstetrician may recommend you to breastfeed your baby with various safety protocols.

Is immediate skin-to-skin care and breastfeeding safe even if the mother has confirmed or suspected COVID-19?

Of course, it may be safe. Your obstetrician may guide you under various recommended or stopgap precautions. The safety parameters or protocols might be the same worldwide. However, stopgap solutions are a possibility under exceptional circumstances. Immediate and regular skin-to-skin care and kangaroo mother care enhances the thermal regulation of newborn babies. It may also help better various other physiological outcomes in the babies. Neonatal mortality is one of the most important factors to highlight. Keeping the baby close to the mother allows early breastfeeding. It may help curb the chances of neonatal mortality. The enormous benefits of skin-to-skin contact and kangaroo care noticeably outweigh the risks of COVID-19 transmission. 

What are the alternatives if a mother has confirmed COVID-19 or is a PUI?

There are various alternatives to breastfeeding a baby or an infant:

A. Expressed breastmilk:

  1. Hand expression may be a method to avail the breastmilk. Many may use a mechanical pump. It may be subject to the obstetrician’s approval. Both pump expression and hand expression are equally beneficial.
  2. Expression of breastmilk has many other benefits including the mother’s renewed ability to breastfeed after recovery.
  3. The helper should observe and maintain all the safety protocols under the obstetrician’s guidance.
  4. The mother’s decision may also matter while expressing the breastmilk. 

B. Donor milk:

In the event of a mother’s inability to express milk, she may consider availing donor’s milk. It may be subject to availability in these tough times. 

How to uphold and maintain safety precautions while breastfeeding if the mother has or is suspected to carry COVID-19?

If a mother is diagnosed with or is suspected to carry COVID-19, she must:

  1. Fasten the mask recommended by the obstetrician or medical staff while breastfeeding.
  2. Replace the mask promptly under the obstetrician’s or medical staff’s supervision.
  3. Avoid the reuse of the masks under any circumstances.
  4. Unbutton or unwrap the mask from behind instead of touching the frontal sections.
  5. Wash the hands regularly using the sanitizer as per the obstetrician’s guidelines.
  6. Regularly disinfect the surfaces around using the disinfectant recommended by the obstetrician/medical staff.

Preparation for IVF treatment?

IVF: An overview

When it comes to fertility treatments, IVF tops the list of almost everyone. In vitro fertilization (IVF Process) signifies fertilization that occurs in a glass. IVF treatment involves the fertilization of an egg by sperm in a plastic dish. IVF entails a technique of assisted reproduction. In the IVF procedure, the egg and sperm are fertilized outside the body towards the formation of an embryo. The embryo gets transferred subsequently to a uterus for implantation and pregnancy. IVF was brought into existence to assist women having blocked fallopian tubes. IVF procedure still actively helps women with disadvantaged fallopian tubes. IVF assists even when a couple grapples with unexplained infertility. 

Below are the other conditions wherein IVF may offer some promise to the couples willing to become parents:

  1. Cervical issues
  2. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome 
  3. Fibroids
  4. Endometriosis
  5. Ovulatory problems
  6. Male factor infertility

Is IVF procedure stressful?

IVF isn’t an event or technique that completes in a day. IVF treatment involves a series of events to be completed. Some couples may feel bored with mood swings and anxiety often joining the joy and excitement. The women and their experience going through IVF may hugely depend on various factors around them. They may be their overall emotional predisposition, thoughts or ideas about IVF, their support pillars, and relationship with the partners. The way they respond to fertility medicines and their length is yet another factor.

How would you prepare your body for IVF?

You should consider giving time for relaxation and recovery after each phase of treatment. You mustn’t lead a life you did before starting IVF. The couples should develop a proper level of sensitivity to the treatment. They should accept the transformations brought to their energy levels. The couples should try to abstain from the activities harmful to the conception. They may consider prioritizing the activities mentioned by theirIVF experts or support members at the clinic. 

Prepare your body for the IVF in some easy steps:

Being diagnosed with infertility itself may distress you. You should give yourself at least 3-6 months and start preparing your body for IVF. You may have lesser time than 3-6 months. It’s best to start preparing yourself physically and emotionally for an experience lasting for months.

Achieve the desired weight and prepare yourself metabolically:

Evidence suggests that body mass index (BMI) has a role to play before pregnancy. Weight gain and nutritional history are two important determinants in an effective pregnancy. A poor nutritional history before IVF may hinder IVF. Being obese may interfere with the overall IVF outcome. Therefore, it’s important to maintain an ideal weight to increase the chances of IVF’s success. Various clinics may issue various guidelines about IVF. And the experts at motherhood guide you as to how you can achieve your target. 

Eat whatever boosts your reproductive health:

Enjoy fresh fruits and add some vegetables to your platter as directed by your IVF expert/staff members. Stop consuming burnt meat, red meat, sugar, refined grains or processed foods. Add spices and herbs to your routine diet. Avoid foods containing mercury including various fish species. You may even design your diet under obstetric or expert supervision. Include chickpeas, lentils and various other leguminous products. Start relying on low-fat milk and low-fat dairy food. Take Avocado, nuts and seeds in abundance. You may start taking prenatal vitamins. You must take an obstetrician’s advice before starting any prenatal vitamin. Your obstetrician will surely alert you about a category of chemicals. The category is called Endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDC). 

Don’t drink and avoid smoke in every way possible:

One good decision to kick the butt brings hundreds of sighs of relief. Smoking is a dependence that creates many hindrances. Stop smoking preferably at least 6 months before you start planning for IVF. Studies show that Nicotine can interfere with ovaries and age them. They may render eggs resistant to fertilization. One can’t even imagine how severely it may damage foetal development and health. Alcohol is also known to hinder the success levels of IVF by more than 50%. Caffeine is another ingredient you should abstain from as you progress to your IVF treatment. 

Stay committed to Yoga and other exercises:

The way you breathe has many things to convey about you. When you take healthy breaths, many issues may start resolving on their own. And nothing replaces Yoga when it comes to assuring those healthy breaths naturally. Yoga will be the first good move to help you relax and rejuvenate effectively. Light yoga and relaxation techniques will guide your healthy way through those IVF protocols. You may consider registering for online exercise classes. They are mostly conducted by experts. They will inspire you to adopt a healthy lifestyle and stay on track from the day you conceive with IVF till the day you deliver your baby.  

Start preparing for healthy sleep as you do for a successful IVF:

Sleep is vital to ensure many aspects of your health. The quality of sleep influences sperm production, sex hormones, and ovulation. Make sure both you and your partner are getting ample sleep as your IVF expert directs. 

You may consider adopting the following habits for healthy and undisturbed sleep:

  1. Unwind by reading some comic or light-hearted stuff before getting off to bed.
  2. Make sure you have made a timetable and are sticking to it every night.
  3. Stop using alcohol or any stimulant ingredients that may interfere with your sleep.
  4. Enjoy some good exercise routines every day.
  5. Exercise routines come up with many perks. Aligning you with a peaceful sleep pattern every night is one of those invaluable perks.
  6. It may create psychological burdens if you have a TV, laptop, or other electronic items in the bedroom.
  7. Try to keep your bedroom free of any professional material like journals, books, files, or other documents.
  8. Address and treat stress. Emotional stress may hamper many good things you enjoy every day.

These steps will allow you to stay active and refreshed as you progress to various phases of your IVF cycle. Your obstetrician will always be there to guide you on essentials or lifestyle choices based on your medical history. 

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What are the factors affecting IVF Success Rates?

IVF is a standard procedure including various stages starting from ovarian stimulation and ending with the embryo transfer and luteal phase. The main determinants of pregnancy and successful implantation are transfer efficiency, uterine receptivity and embryo quality. Embryo transfer is the final step in a standard IVF procedure. 

Below are the factors affecting IVF success:

Age: (H3 Tag)

The correlation between age and IVF success rates is an important factor. Women below 35 years of age may have higher chances of live births. The percentage of live births per egg retrieval for those below 35 might be about 55%. Women between 35 years and 37 years may denote a lower percentage of live births. Women aged between 35 and 37 may have about 42% chances of live births per egg retrieval. Women between the ages of 38 to 40 may see 26.7% chances of live births. Women who cross 40 years of age but are below 42 may witness 13.8% chances of live births per egg retrieval. And women aged about 43 and above may be left with merely 4.2% chances of live births per egg retrieval.

Types of fertility issues:

IVF treatment or IVF procedure offers success rates in some medical conditions. The tubal blockage is one of those conditions effectively treated by standard IVF protocols. Persistent miscarriage or thin endometrial lining may, however, complicate the success rates of IVF. Uterine malformations, fibroids and TB are some of the conditions hampering the overall success rates of IVF. Male factor infertility is another cause why the IVF success rate may be reduced. 

Duration of infertility:

Duration of infertility may warrant many consequent actions. Since the duration of infertility associates itself with advanced maternal age, it may hamper the success rate. The solution to the advanced maternal age may be egg donation.

Recurrent or persistent miscarriage:

Medical history involving previous pregnancy or persistent miscarriage may present additional challenges. The IVF experts may ask a couple to take additional precautions and specific medications based on their medical history. Live birth in such cases may be a hurdle. A persistent or recurrent miscarriage may be hard to tackle in the absence of alternative therapies. 

Dual factor infertility:

These scenarios are exceptionally difficult. As the category suggests, dual-factor infertility involves both partners suffering from infertility. These conditions may diminish the overall quality and success rate of IVF procedures. 

Ovulatory dysfunction:

Ovulatory dysfunction may present many obstructions to effective IVF cycles. Patients with high FSH levels and low AMH levels may end up being disadvantaged. And ovarian dysfunction disrupts the overall IVF success rate. 

Use of donor eggs:

Advanced maternal age emerges as an undesirable element in Assisted Reproductive Technology (ART). Women above 35 or 40 years of age require donor eggs. Using eggs of young females may increase the chances of IVF success rate. 

Exercise:

We all know how crucial exercise is for our day-to-day health. It allows us to stay mentally and physically fit. Taking care of one’s physical health is vital to reserve the benefits of IVF. Follow your IVF expert’s advice while you exercise when your IVF cycle is in progress. Mild or moderate exercise allows you to stay active and alert throughout the day. Make sure you aren’t indulging in any risky postures in your exercise regimen. Working in your comfort zone is important as your exercise shouldn’t interfere with your IVF cycles. It’s better to avoid cardiovascular activities. Avoid them at least till your childbirth. Work comfortably for 5-6 hours a week. Focus more on the activities that refresh you keeping you relaxed and contented. Ask your obstetrician to share her viewpoints if you find any exercise risky or strained. 

Stress:

The stress during an Assisted Reproductive Technique is palpable. Couples have already grappled with a lot of stress and low spiritedness. And when it comes to IVF, they may be worried about its parameters including chances of success, complications, contraindications and fear of failure. Emotional stress during IVF may play a unique role in the overall IVF outcome as multiple factors are shaping the stress. They may be previous experiences and overall psychological predisposition while opting for the IVF cycle. Mood swings, migraines, dejections and past flashes are some of the emotional effects of IVF. Couples undergoing IVF may sustain many issues based on various factors. They may include financial, religious, socio-ethnic or sociocultural, physical and emotional factors. 

How would you maximize the IVF success rates?

Stay ahead and updated:

You are preparing for a cycle that may need updated information. Collect the relevant details from your IVF expert and plan appropriately. A well-informed decision will keep you away from anxiety and misinformation. Stay informed about the body, the IVF process and treatment schedule.

Confide in your IVF expert:

Be clear and precise about how you communicate your thoughts and feelings. Be firm about the decision you have made. Your ordeal coping with the infertility diagnosis may have changed your overall emotional situation. 

Find the right pillars of emotional support:

Many others have been through what you may be going through now. They overcame those barriers and are parenting a kid now. They successfully surmounted it and so will you. Get the right confidante. It may be your sibling, best friend, colleague or relative. You may consider having a spokesperson. Start chatting or sharing rapport with others grappling with infertility. They know and understand what you wish to hear today. Emotional support groups throng the internet today and are keen on knowing your expectations. 

It’s time to be choosier:

Be choosy about what you wish to take control over and how you can do it. Avoid unnecessary stress and decisions interfering with your overall welfare. You may count on your favorite hobbies and exercises. You will no longer feel lonely or overridden by the sense of alienation. 

Enhance your knowledge base:

IVF treatment will be better if you will stay informed. Discuss how many embryos will be transferred and what best you may incorporate to maximize the chances of a successful pregnancy. Your knowledge base will guide you on how you can reduce the possibility of multiple babies. You may even discuss how you can manage the leftover eggs or extra eggs. Extend the discussion appropriately so that the IVF procedure is more effective. Avoid improper disposal of the eggs. 

Strengthen the communication with your partner:

Set a proper schedule to discuss everything about how IVF is done. Know what IVF pregnancy is and how many injections you may need for IVF treatment. Shedding light on how to make IVF successful for the first time will help you and your partner plan better. You may have already studied how IVF works step by step. Carefully consider together how many days you may rest as the IVF patients. Plan everything about what to do after IVF transfer/embryo transfer. Render the necessary emotional support to each other throughout the IVF process. 

Motherhood hospital is always here to transform your expectations into a fantastic reality. Let us know how we can help you in your journey to blissful parenthood.

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Signs Of Gynaecological Cancer Which Women Shouldn’t Ignore

By Dr Madhuri Burande Laha, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital, Kharadi

 

You will be shocked to know that any type of cancer that begins in the reproductive organs of women can be termed as gynaecological cancers.? Cervical, ovarian, and uterine cancer is the ones that will require immediate attention. And as a group, they will be called as gynaecologic cancer. Fallopian tube cancer another type but it occurs rarely. It is the need of the hour to understand the symptoms of gynaecological cancers and improve the quality of life.

A woman’s body tends to undergo changes at every stage of life. While the transition is completely normal but there will be some changes that can be bothersome and maybe the symptoms. Yes, you have heard it right! Those can be symptoms of gynaecological cancers that are women’s cancer. There are 4 types of gynaecological cancers such as cervical cancer that begins from the cells lining of the cervix, ovarian cancer that starts in the ovaries, uterine cancer that originates from the uterus, and fallopian tube cancer occurring in women with a history of ovarian or breast cancer. The number of women suffering from gynaecological cancers is rising in India. Thus, early diagnosis of symptoms can aid proper treatment and reduce mortality. Here, we tell you about the symptoms that you must watch out.

These are the symptoms of gynaecological cancers that shouldn’t be neglected

Abdominal and pelvic pain:

Ovarian cancer can invite back and abdominal pain whilepelvic pain can be seen in the patients having uterine cancer.Likewise, bloating is a symptom of cervical cancer. In case, there is a pain in the same location for over a month then immediately consult the doctor.

Bleeding or discharge:

Do you bleed after sex? Or in between your periods? Then, beware! It can be worrisome and you will have to seek medical attention as bleeding and discharge can be the symptoms of ovarian, uterine, and cervical cancer.

Tiredness: 

Do you feel fatigued all the time? Then, it is time to get yourself evaluated as it can also be the symptom of gynaecological cancer.

Unintentional weight loss: 

Is there sudden weight loss even when you haven’t changed your diet or exercise pattern then you must be watchful of it. Though shedding those excess kilos is a dream of every woman but unexplained weight loss can be dangerous for the health.

Diarrhoea or constipation: 

Is there a change in your bowel and bladder habits? Do you notice symptoms such as constipation or diarrhea or even frequent urination? Then, take note of them and consult the doctor.

Change in eating habits: 

If you tend to full quick or find it difficult to eat food then it can be a sign of ovarian cancer.

 Also, those changes in one’s vulva color or skin (that is a rash, sores, warts, or ulcers) are also the symptoms that need to be managed.

When should you see a fertility specialist?

Expert guidance on fertility concerns - Motherhood Hospitals India

If you are facing any difficulty in conceiving or are unable to carry your pregnancy to term, your General Physician will prescribe a formal visit to the fertility specialist or a Reproductive Endocrinologist (RE). A fertility specialist acts a guide in your birthing journey.

In such cases it is okay to feel anxious, but know that you arenŸ??t alone in the quest. Approximately, 8% to 10% of couples worldwide are suffering from fertility problems. The ability of conception right when they are physically and mentally ready is something almost every couple takes for granted. Most couples are even shocked to realize that the conception isnŸ??t occurring as planned. 

What is infertility?

Infertility is a condition involving the inability to conceive after a year or longer of unprotected physical intimacies. Infertility is caused by various factors which may include issues with ovulation and other causes differing from person to person. Infertility may be an issue with unknown complexities. But, dozens of treatments can uplift the chances of conception and make a coupleŸ??s journey to parenthood smoother than they think. 

Your General Physician might recommend an early fertility evaluation under various circumstances. Or you or your partner should consult a relevant specialist in certain scenarios if:

  1. The male partner has a varicocele.
  2. The semen analysis reports of the male partner are abnormal.
  3. The genital pathology of the male partner is clinically worrisome.
  4. The male partner carries undescended testes.
  5. The male partner carries a medical history of surgeries like urogenital surgery.
  6. The female and/or male partner carries a history of Sexually Transmitted Diseases (STDs) or pelvic inflammatory disease.
  7. The female partner carries a medical history of examinations like abnormal pelvic examination.
  8. The female partner has a medical history of surgeries such as abdominal or pelvic surgery.
  9. The female partner carries medical conditions like Amenorrhoea or oligomenorrhoea.
  10. The female partner is more than 35 years of age and is unable to conceive even after 12 months of unprotected sexual intercourse.
  11. The female partner has Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI), Uterine Fibroids, Endometriosis and age above 40.

Are there any genetic predispositions causing infertility? 

Yes. Genetic abnormalities are making it hard for a lady to become pregnant. A woman with certain genetic predispositions may face issues carrying the pregnancy to term. Rearrangement of genetic material or translocation is the two examples of genetic predispositions. There are more complicated occurrences in the wake of which a couple with genetic issues may wish to avoid inheriting certain illnesses to their future generation. 

Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD) combined with IVF present a range of benefits if a couple wishes to screen their heritable genetic abnormalities. PGD enables a couple to discover genetic details about their embryos before the couple proceeds for the implantation of the embryos. However, this type of treatment is helpful in certain clinical situations. An obstetrician or gynaecologist recommends this treatment based on various factors like medical history and current situation of the couple. 

Clinical evaluation of infertility in men:

Smoking, alcohol consumption, obesity and old age are some of the common factors contributing to male factor infertility. However, these factors manifest as additional risk factors. Some of the main causes of infertility in men are antinuclear or autoimmune antibodies to sperm, chromosomal abnormalities, systemic diseases, history of infections, injury and anatomic variances. 

Evaluation of male factor infertility begins with a medical history and the physical examination based on previous surgeries. The evaluation in the laboratory starts with a semen analysis. The analyst or laboratorian may ask the patient to abstain from ejaculation for 48-72 hours before the patient appears for the semen analysis. The sperm generation time spans mostly across 2 months. Therefore, the patient might have to wait for at least three months before going for the semen analysis again. 

Clinical evaluation of infertility in women:

The clinical evaluation of infertility in women primarily covers the history of surgeries on reproductive organs. The analysis could look out for the factors such as tobacco consumption, alcohol consumption, occupational exposure, substance abuse, medication use, previous pregnancies and results, a previous usage of contraceptive medicines, time and frequency of sexual intercourse and menstrual history.

Below are the principles of care and advice for a healthy conception:

  1. All the experienced Reproductive Endocrinologists (RE) or fertility experts deploy a specialist team to treat a couple grappling infertility.
  2. The mainstay of the infertility treatment involves the couple, the sensitivity of the expert team towards the coupleŸ??s clinical and emotional needs and patient information literature.
  3. Couples are advised to stop smoking or being around passive smokers.
  4. Couples are advised to stop or limit alcohol intake.
  5. Couples are requested to stay away from recreational drug use.

Are there any special instructions for men?

Men are advised by the andrologist/expert to avoid using tight clothes or underwear as they can cause testicular hyperthermia. 

What is the key advice for the women willing to conceive and carry the pregnancy to term?

  1. Obstetricians might start with the analysis of Rubella. It may be followed by immunization as and if needed and the expert may chalk out further advice on pregnancy.
  2. The expert may seek to enhance the physical and emotional welfare before conception. It may range from proper BMI management to diabetic control.
  3. The advice may further include the prescriptions of 400 mcg Folic Acid before conception and up to 12 weeks of gestation.
  4. Most experts in Reproductive Healthcare may focus on extra precautions if the woman is on anticonvulsants or antidiabetic medications.
  5. The women on anticonvulsants or antidiabetic medications or those having a child with neural tube defect are prescribed 5 mg folic acid per day.
  6. The women with a body mass index greater than 29 kg/m2 are advised to lose weight.

The backbone of managing any illness including infertility is prevention. It tends to be difficult if not impossible to manage infertility caused by the congenital factors. The good news is unexplained infertility has treatments like intrauterine injections and IVF.

Advice to women planning to delay pregnancy for some reason 

A womenŸ??s fertility is at peak upto 30 to 35 years and thereafter it starts going downhill . In some women it may go down even at younger age . If for reason it is not possible to conceive earlier please see a Gynaec and get your ovarian reserve checked by AMH blood test and or sonography. If your ovarian reserveŸ??s is not so good the it is important to conceive In time or freeze your eggs to be used at later stage This is known as social egg freezing. 

The role of physiotherapy in women’s health

As we know, physiotherapists are the professionals committed to improving and upholding functional independence and physical performance. And when it comes to womenŸ??s health, pieces of evidence suggest that physiotherapy can mitigate pain and help relieve various symptoms. Most women lack knowledge about the help and assistance available to restore health and reinstate the healthy state of body and mind.

Physiotherapy associated with womenŸ??s health covers a range of services including obstetrics, osteoporosis, urinary incontinence, neuromusculoskeletal issues, prenatal and postnatal care and rehabilitation. Physiotherapy acknowledges the physical differences of the female population and stays updated to assist women in their quest for a stress-free, pain-free and enjoyable life. 

How does physiotherapy assist prenatal health?

Pregnancy is undoubtedly the dreamiest phase in womenŸ??sŸ?? life. However, this phase involves its share of tensions and stress. A range of health conditions occurs in pregnancy. Physiotherapy and physiotherapists help relieve many medical conditions and offer a symptomatic cure to them. The common health concerns in pregnancy are lower back pain, the severity of injuries, weakness of the pelvic floor muscles and Carpal Tunnel Syndrome to name a few. 

Role of physiotherapy in obstetric care:

Physiotherapy plays a crucial role in obstetric care that includes both antepartum and postpartum services. Manual techniques combined with posture-related education works wonders for pregnant women. Physiotherapists specialized in lower and upper back care and healthy modification of daily activities promise optimal posture alignment thereby reducing the orthopaedic tension in expectant mothers. 

Physiotherapists promote the participation of pregnant women in healthy activities and various exercises that strengthen their abilities. Postpartum physiotherapy recognizes structural and postural futilities prevalent in pregnancy, delivery or postpartum phases. Physiotherapists regularize on correct muscle activation and effective utilization of all the necessary support structures. 

How does prepartum and postpartum physiotherapy work? 

The assistance of expectant mothers depends mainly upon the current conditions. Like every other consultation, the physiotherapistŸ??s role begins with detailing the medical history. Prepartum and postpartum health are difficult to discuss. The assessment mainly includes taking into account the onset of oneŸ??s symptoms. It offers a clinical insight into how expectant motherŸ??s daily life gets shaped by various factors. 

The physical assessment begins most likely with the analysis of the pregnant ladyŸ??s abdominal muscles, pelvis and lumbar spine. This examination is crucial to identifying the texture, vigour and vitality of oneŸ??s pelvic floor muscles. Physiotherapists use finger palpation to examine the connective tissue and pelvic floor muscles. The treatment depends upon the primary symptoms and the conclusion drawn after the detailed assessment. 

Applications of physiotherapy in early and late pregnancy:

  1. More than half of the expectant mother suffer from low back pain and the right way to naturally prevent the low back pain is to get a good nightŸ??s sleep.
  2. Physiotherapy offers a range of physical therapies to help women tackle pain and make pregnancy more comfortable.
  3. Physiotherapy promotes stabilization exercises focusing on the muscles around the spine and help reduce back pain.
  4. Research suggests that physical therapy is effective in minimizing the urinary incontinence.
  5. Most physiotherapists encourage targeted therapies to reduce the recurrences of urinary incontinence in late pregnancy.
  6. Physiotherapists help to restore flexibility enhancements so that pregnancy and labour become easier.
  7. A physiotherapistŸ??s role promotes the active participation of women into healthy exercises directed at the pelvic floor health and perineal massage.
  8. They give you clear advice on the ways to recover after childbirth.
  9. They generate proper guidelines by examining the womanŸ??s posture, abdominal muscle gap, pelvic floor muscle function and respiration.
  10. They help create a detailed plan to reinstate the pelvic floor muscles and abdominal muscles after the childbirth.
  11. Most importantly, they ensure a safe and healthy postpartum exercise.

Conclusion:

Posture includes a dynamic state affecting all activities throughout a personŸ??s lifespan. Various physical, emotional and occupational factors impact functions, posture, behaviour and eventually the quality of life. Earlier the women acquire the right postural habits, higher are their chances to dissuade or effectively manage the stresses on their body. Physiotherapists promote physical and mental welfare enforcing the overall balance. Physiotherapy makes it easy for expectant mothers to enjoy each moment throughout their pregnancy.

Stretch marks in pregnancy

Approximately 50% to 80% of women are likely to develop stretch marks in pregnancy. Miscellaneous creams are known to offer some benefit in striae gravidarum. But no reliable evidence is available to conclude that any creams or topical ointments can help prevent stretch marks. Although not an illness, stretch marks can give nervousness to many expectant mothers. Some studies indicate that women who have developed stretch marks in pregnancy can avoid getting further marks in pregnancy. 

What are stretch marks?  

Stretch mark is a scar developed when the skin stretches or shrivels abruptly. The abruptness of these changes leads to the rupture of the collagen and elastin. When the skin starts to heal, stretch marks can appear. Stretch marks may not be present on every expectant motherŸ??s body.Fluctuations in hormonal levels play a role. Stretch marks may run in families. If someone close to an expectant mother had stretch marks, such an expectant mother is more prone to develop stretch marks. 

What are the body parts most prone to develop stretch marks?

  1. Thighs
  2. Hips
  3. Bottom
  4. Chest
  5. Stomach

What are some of the most common situations to develop stretch marks?

  1. Pregnancy
  2. Growth series occurring in puberty
  3. Sudden weight gain or sudden weight loss
  4. Weight management program while undergoing rapid muscle growth

What are the risk factors identified in the development of stretch mark?

General risk factors:

  1. Body mass index
  2. High pre-pregnancy weight
  3. Family history of stretch marks
  4. High weight during the delivery
  5. High gestational weight gain
  6. Young age

Maternal risk factors in pregnancy:

  1. Low intake of water
  2. Low level of serum relaxin
  3. Increase in the abdominal and hip circumference
  4. Low level of serum vitamin C
  5. Increased body mass index at delivery

Are there any techniques to prevent the stretch marks?

Genetics, as per experts, are the causes for stretch marks. But it may not always mean that a person will get stretch marks if either of the parents has it. Maintaining a healthy body mass index could be the first effective step towards preventing stretch marks. Ample consumption of water can help prevent the possible damage caused by the stretches of the skin. 

ItŸ??s best to include the foods rich in zinc in the diet. Foods rich in Vitamin A, Vitamin C, Vitamin D such as milk, citrus and sweet potatoes can benefit in stretch marks.

Diets and exercise: 

  1. Aerobics:

Aerobic is a kind of exercise mostly known to augment the blood circulation. It assures that the nutrients needed to the skin are aptly supplied to the surface. It may lessen the severity of the stretch marks. Morning walks can help those with stretch marks to an enormous extent. Half an hour every day or at least four days of a week should be spent in aerobics. 

  • Push-ups:

Push-ups help reduce the stretch marks around the breasts. One can start push-ups and increase their inclusion as needed. 

  • Abdominal exercises:

Abdominal stretch marks can be a reason for public embarrassment. While the stretch marks on abdomen are hard to treat, sit-ups and crunches can work wonders provided they are performed regularly. 

  • Squats:

Squats are a known ally to the muscle tone in hips, thighs and butts. Even when it comes to squats, those who are new to them can start with fewer squats and go on increasing them every day. 

What are the methods to remove the stretch marks?

The efficacy and results of the removal methods may vary from person to person. The results may be satisfactory in the first few days. 

  1. Microdermabrasion 
  2. Surgical intervention
  3. Radiofrequency treatment
  4. Light therapy and laser intervention
  5. Topical medications and creams or ointments

Almond Oil:

Oils have been known for centuries to generate moisture and increase the blood flow to various areas. There is no enough evidence to demonstrate whether the combination of massage and oil prevents stretch marks or not. Bitter almond oil is used by some people to treat the expectant mothers as it doesnŸ??t pose a risk to mother or the foetus. 

Hyaluronic Acid:

There are creams available in the modern marketplace today such as Verum and Alphastria. Alphastria is a proprietary medicine with Hyaluronic Acid, Vitamin A, Vitamin E, Allantoin and Calcium Pantothenate as the main constituents. Verum is another proprietary cream that contains Vitamin E, essential fatty acids, panthenol, hyaluronic acid, elastin and menthol.

Hyaluronic acid is the constituent common in both the proprietary medicines. Hyaluronic Acid is reported to facilitate tensile resistance to mechanical pressures and palliate the atrophy by inducing fibroblast activity and collagen synthesis thereby increasing the skin volume. 

Tretinoin:

Tretinoin is a category C drug in pregnancy and therefore caution is required while administering it in patients. Patients are advised not to use it until the lactation period. Erythematous Stretch marks become less severe after Tretinoin is administered in the treatment of stretch marks. 

Centella:

Centella in combination with other ingredients is reported to help prevent stretch marks. Centella is a medicinal herb whose usage in various creams can help prevent the stretch marks or minimize their severity. Centella is a popular name for Centella Asiatica, a plant commonly found in South Asia. ItŸ??s used to treat Leprosy, Venous stasis, ulcers and eczemas. Trofolastin is a proprietary medicine containing centella extracts. 

Lasers and other light devices:

Lasers and treatments involving lasers and other light devices are becoming popular nowadays. 585-nm flashlamp-pumped pulsed-dye laser is one of the most preferred lasers to treat stretch marks. Pulsed-dye laser, Excimer Laser, 1450-nm Diode Laser and Copper-Bromide Laser are some of the other laser variants used to treat stretch marks. 

ItŸ??s mandatory to consult the obstetrics and gynaecology department or a seasoned dermatologist before administering any treatment. A gynaecologist may ask for the medical history before administering the standalone treatment or combinations. A good diet and regular exercise are the best ways to prevent stretch marks. 

I am pregnant. Am I at the risk of testing positive for COVID-19?

COVID-19 and its transmission:

COVID-19 was first identified in Wuhan, China by the end of the year 2019. A healthcare professional may diagnose COVID-19 based on signs, symptoms and purported exposure, or using a positive test for SARS-CoV-2 even when there are no palpable symptoms. 

Infectivity and transfer

The majority of cases involving COVID-19 transmission denote the evidence of human-to-human transfer. The virus is readily isolable from respiratory droplets faeces, fomites or bodily secretions. Close or accidental contact with an infected person or an infected surface may transmit the virus. When it comes to the possibility of vertical transmission, evidence suggests that it may be uncommon for a pregnant lady to transmit the virus prenatally. In the event of a transmission of the virus from mother to her child, it suggests various possibilities. It may be least affected by the factors such as delayed cord clamping, skin-to-skin kangaroo care, breastfeeding or colocation (rooming-in). 

Possible risk of catching COVID-19 in pregnancy

At present, there’s no concrete evidence to conclude whether pregnant women are more prone to COVID-19 infection than the nonpregnant counterparts. However, it may be noted that pregnancy involves various physiological changes. The changes even include alterations in the immune system. The alterations in the immune system may make a few women more prone to infections with a marked reduction in the body’s defences against virulent microbes. However, there may be a group of women more prone to severe complications from COVID-19 infection. Certain complications may even require hospitalization. Therefore, precautions and preventive measures against exposure to the virus are important. 

Is it safe to continue with prenatal care in the COVID-19 pandemic?

Of course, it’s safe and important. Obstetricians worldwide are striving to make the most out of healthcare availabilities. They are busy making all the possible changes and help patients and healthcare staffs prevent COVID-19 exposure. Most obstetric setups and firms dedicated to obstetric care are converting traditional antenatal care to tele-healthcare. However, it doesn’t mean the traditional visits will no longer be available. Most setups treat common symptoms using telephonic consultations or video consultations.

Various pregnancy-specific tests may continue based on your consent and your obstetrician’s decisions. Your obstetrician may guide you about how to count the kick and ascertain that the baby is healthy and hale and hearty. You might consider buying something like a blood pressure cuff and a scale. It will make it easy for you to produce your blood pressure and other parameters during telehealth sessions. 

Steps to safeguard yourself from COVID-19 in pregnancy:

  1. Most guidelines to ensure personal safety during the COVID-19 pandemic for pregnant women are the same as those for nonpregnant counterparts.
  2. Stay home, stay safe.
  3. Wear a mask while moving out.
  4. Observe healthy social distances and restrict your social interactions with others.
  5. Use a sanitiser preferably recommended by your obstetrician.
  6. Use a handwash recommended by your obstetrician and wash hands regularly, and specifically after an interaction with an outsider.
  7. Avoid visiting places with rush and crowd.

What is the risk of preterm birth with COVID-19?

Owing to the lack of knowledge on the virus and its interventions in obstetric health, people have less awareness about COVID-19 impact on pregnant women. Studies worldwide haven’t concluded anything on the possible rise in the risk of spontaneous abortion in pregnant women with COVID-19. Women with a certain medical history and health status may be more prone to COVID-19 complications.

If a pregnant woman develops severe symptoms with COVID-19 infection, she may need ICU attention and early delivery. Nonetheless, the data available about the correlation between the virus and preterm delivery is less. Therefore, it may be unwise to conclude that COVID-19 can be the direct cause of preterm delivery. 

Is it true that pregnant women may transmit the virus to their baby during pregnancy and childbirth?

Respiratory or saliva droplets of an infected person are the main modes that may infect a healthy person with COVID-19. Few cases of COVID-19 are reported in neonates. The good news is that most pregnant women infected with COVID-19 gave birth to healthy neonates. Studies are yet to find any traces of coronavirus in cord blood, breastmilk or amniotic fluid. The evidence available on the overall infectivity is unclear. 

Alterations in prenatal care to minimize the risk of COVID-19

The healthcare setups should consider crafting alterations for low-versus-high-risk pregnancies. Women with pregnancy-specific disorders or pre-existing conditions like Hypertension, Diabetes mat require special attention. Healthcare departments should restrict the number of visitors and enhance the quality of care based on various parameters. 

What are the symptoms of COVID-19 infection in pregnancy?

Most pregnant women infected with COVID-19 remain asymptomatic. Most women with symptoms may develop flulike signs alongside mild to moderate cold. The other uncommon symptoms may include diarrhoea, loss of taste and smell, myalgia and dyspnoea. Pregnant women infected with COVID-19 may be more prone to myalgia and fever than the nonpregnant counterparts. 

Severe complications of COVID-19 infection in pregnant women

About two-thirds of pregnant women infected with COVID-19 are asymptomatic. But women with COVID-19 are more likely than the nonpregnant counterparts to get admitted to the Intensive Care Unit (ICU). Most reliable surveys show that women with COVID-19 aren’t at a raised risk of death from COVID-19. But compared to pregnant women without COVID-19, some of the pregnant counterparts with symptomatic COVID-19 may encounter worse clinical outcomes. 

What are the risk factors associated with COVID-19 infection in pregnancy?

  1. A BMI of 25kg/m2 or more
  2. pregnancy-specific morbidities
  3. Pre-existent conditions such as diabetes and hypertension 
  4. Advanced maternal age
  5. Residence in high-risk areas of the areas of high prevalence

What are the effects of COVID-19 on foetal health?

COVID-19 positive women who are symptomatic may have to face certain challenges ahead. Nonetheless, the studies or data available on the risk of COVID-19 on the foetus are scarce. Symptomatic maternal COVID-19 may be linked to an increase in the risk of iatrogenic preterm birth. Besides preterm birth, COVID-19 infection may not leave any harmful effects on the foetal health or neonatal outcomes.

The evidence denoting any possibility of congenital anomalies isn’t yet available. There is no concrete evidence to date showing any possibilities of neonatal mortalities or stillbirth in response to maternal COVID-19 infection. There is no evidence even suggesting that spontaneous abortion is possible in the wake of maternal COVID-19 infection. 

Covid Vaccines and Menses: Is it Safe?

COVID-19 vaccine does not meddle with the menstrual cycle, say, Motherhood doctors

As more people come forward to get vaccinated against the Coronavirus, it is important to get some myths around the vaccine and womenŸ??s health out of the way.

When 40-year-old Snehal was going through the stream of messages circulating in her friendsŸ?? groups on social media platforms, she was surprised to notice a concerning status about periods and vaccination. This forwarded message, which has gone viral, said that women should not take the COVID-19 vaccine five days prior and five days after they get their periods as it would affect their immunity and result in irregular periods.  

She had just taken her jab a few days earlier while she was menstruating, so she was perplexed by this information. Ÿ??I was on the third day of my periods when I took the first shot of the COVID-19 vaccine and I do not seem to have any issues. Of course, I felt a little tired and had a mild fever, but I was already told that these are common reactions to the vaccine that would subside soonŸ?.

As the Indian Government has opened vaccinations above the age of 18 years from May 1 onwards, there are a lot of myths flying around on the effect of the vaccines on menstruating, pregnant, and lactating women. Social media is full of such posts warning such groups of women to refrain from taking the jab. As the vaccinations are available to all adults now, this has resulted in confusion. Many women who have seen the message, are concerned whether the vaccine have an adverse affect on their menstrual cycle. But doctors at Motherhood Hospital have reiterated that the claims being circulated have no basis in the truth and that it is completely safe for women to get inoculated before, during, and after the menstruation cycle.

With the COVID vaccine bringing hope for all adults in India to get protection against the deadly virus, it is important to bust any myths around vaccines in relation to womenŸ??s reproductive health. According to Dr. Manju Gupta, Consultant Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at Motherhood Hospital, Noida, it is a myth that womenŸ??s immunity is weakened during the menstrual cycle and that taking the jab at such a time will result in heavy or irregular periods.   

Ÿ??COVID vaccinations are for increasing your bodyŸ??s immunity to fight against the virus. So, how can it have an adverse impact on the body? There is no scientific data available to prove that taking the COVID vaccine before, during, or after menstruation will meddle with our periods. Women should stay away from such claims. Generally, our periods last for five days, and during this time, we shed our endometrium (the lining or inner membrane of the uterus). During the menstrual cycle, the endometrium grows into a thick, blood vessel-rich, glandular tissue layer, and this tissue is shed, which results in bleeding. So, the bodyŸ??s immunity is intact and does not get weakened,Ÿ? explains Dr. Gupta.

She added that many of the women doctors have taken their vaccine during periods and did not have any problems. Ÿ??Vaccination is essential even if you get COVID after taking the jab, it protects you from getting your condition worsened. Women should not believe such myths. If you are unsure, contact your physician or gynaecologist to get an expert opinion. But, get yourself vaccinated and follow COVID appropriate behavior,Ÿ? said Dr. Gupta.

Following social media posts about menstruation and the COVID-19 vaccine, various medical and womenŸ??s health organizations have come forward to dispel such invalid posts. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynaecology (ACOG) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) have both released statements assuring that the COVID-19 vaccine does not adversely affect a womanŸ??s menstrual cycle and that it is safe to take the vaccine during periods.

In fact, both agencies have reiterated that early data regarding the vaccine reveals that it is safe for pregnant and lactating mothers to administer the vaccine and that it may not cause any harm to mother and baby. Here, the Indian Government responding to the fake news has appealed to the people to ignore such messages and take the initiative to get themselves and all family members above 18 years of age, vaccinated.     

How can I get pregnant fast naturally?

The foods you prefer before you start your efforts towards conception may have a crucial role to play. These may be the conceiving foods determining your health and your baby’s future health. A conceiving diet influences your fertility nutrition effectively and allows you to carry your pregnancy to term for a hale and hearty childbirth. Pregnancy care is a comprehensive subject that works best when you include every favourable toolkit in your lifestyle. The period spanning a few months before the conception is an ideal phase to review your diet. It’s also an opportunity to make informed decisions towards an effective pregnancy. 

Healthy pregnancy and weight:

Pregnancy starts with taking prenatal vitamins and a set of obstetrical guidelines. Constant and gradual weight gain achieved by combining informed decisions and conceiving foods is best for your health. Pregnancy is not an ideal time to lose weight. 

Pre-conception nutrition:

Pre-conception nutrition forms a crucial part of pregnancy preparations. A diet that balances healthy vitamin and mineral levels improves ovulation, chances of fertility and boosts reproductive health. Nutritional interventions for a healthy pregnancy facilitate ideal weight, insulin resistance, hormonal balance and dietary richness. 

Prenatal vitamins:

It’s no longer a secret that a dietary regimen full of prenatal vitamins allow both mom and baby to thrive on the nutrients. However, it may not be advisable always to wait until you are pregnant. If you combine the right fertility vitamins, you will be pregnant in due course of time. Studies show the efficacy of fertility vitamins performing many functions apart from increasing the chances of pregnancy. Multivitamins are found to play a crucial role in increasing sperm parameters and enhancing egg quality. A cluster of multivitamins suffice. Nonetheless, a personalized approach is irreplaceable to optimize the overall health of you and your pregnancy. Therefore, your obstetrician may begin with a comprehensive analysis of the vitamins you need. Your obstetrician would guide you about the vitamins and their dosage.

  • Folic acid and vitamin D:

It’s ideal to start with multivitamins as you prepare yourself for a conception. If you are planning for a pregnancy, make sure you contain a multivitamin containing at least 400 mcg of folic acid and 200-400 IU of vitamin D.

  • Iodine:

Iodine is one of the most important components of thyroid hormones. Thyroid hormones regulate the metabolism. Before conception, thyroid hormones control ovulation. They are also crucial in regulating metabolism and weight management. These factors influence the chances of natural conception. Include as much iodine as directed by your physician. 

  • Vitamin E:

Vitamin E helps various functions. Vitamin E is mainly associated with the repair of the cells. That’s what makes it effective as a fertility booster. Being an essential nutrient for ovaries, it’s also an antioxidant that resists the process of ageing. 

  • Selenium:

Many obstetricians call selenium a super-vitamin for fertility and pregnancy. Selenium harnesses its antioxidant properties that facilitate healthy uterine follicles. Uterine follicles harbour the development and release of the eggs. Studies show that acute selenium deficiency may lead to gestational complications, harm the foetal nervous system and cause miscarriages. 60mcg selenium is recommended. However, the amount may differ based on various parameters. 

  • Omega-3s:

Omega-3 fatty acids are some of the irreplaceable parts of a fertility diet. Studies demonstrate that omega-3s aid the function of healthy ovulation. Consuming DHA fatty acids may raise progesterone levels, a hormone controlling the lining in the uterus. DHA consumption is also linked to a decrease in anovulation. 

  • B Vitamins:

Every vitamin in group B aid the process of reproduction. Thiamine (B1), Riboflavin (B2), Pyridoxine (B6), Cyanocobalamin (B12) are the vitamins belonging to the B group. VitaminB6 regulates the levels of progesterone in the woman’s body. It’s crucial even in the improvement of the luteal phase. Therefore, it allows a proper time gap between ovulation and menstruation. That’s why it contributes to a successful pregnancy. B group of vitamins are found abundantly in banana, clas, cauliflower, mustard greens, whole grains, chickpeas and eggs. 

  • Beta-Carotene:

Skin and hair depend mainly on vitamin A or retinol. Beta-carotene gets converted into Vitamin A. Beta-Carotene also plays a crucial role in healthy eyesight, proper immune function and mucous membranes. It acts as a hormone regulator in pregnancy thereby aiding the prevention of miscarriage. Carrots, sweet potatoes, broccoli and kale are some of the foods rich in Beta-Carotene. 

  • Exercise:

Joining a pregnancy exercise class apart from conceiving healthy foods is necessary to ensure the proper distribution of energy levels. Many experts recommend that physical activity of around 30 minutes to 1 hour/day is essential. You may achieve your ideal weight for fertility through various activities. Walking, swimming, bicycling and aerobics are some of the mild exercise techniques. Yoga shines out as an ideal way to start a day due to various health benefits. Yoga helps improve posture, respiration, concentration and overall wellbeing. All these are the essentials to facilitate healthy labour.?˜

Below are the foods to include as you start preparing for pregnancy:

  • Green leafy vegetables:

Green leafy vegetables offer an abundance of vitamin C. Vitamin C contributes to healthy ovulation. It even cuts the risks like miscarriage and genetic abnormalities.

  • Nuts and dry fruits:

Dried fruits and nuts contain vitamins, minerals and protein. Nuts are a rich source of selenium which helps prevent chromosomal disruptions in eggs. 

  • Berries:

Berries offer natural antioxidants and anti-inflammatory phytonutrients thereby boosting fertility levels. They also offer vitamin C and folate which aid in foetal development. Being an active ingredient helping in weight loss, including berries in the diet is highly beneficial. 

  • Beans:

Beans contain iron and lean protein. Iron is essential for the production of healthy eggs. It may lead to the production of less healthy eggs in response to abysmal iron content. 

  • Bananas:

Bananas are a rich source of vitamin B6. They also contribute to the process of forming a zygote by controlling the hormones involved in ovulation. Being a rich source of potassium and vitamin C, bananas may help satiate many nutritional requirements before and during pregnancy. 

Below are some quick recommendations for a healthy pregnancy:

  1. Enjoy milk every day.
  2. Prefer carbohydrates with high fibre content. They get digested slowly thereby aiding the control of blood sugar and insulin levels.
  3. Based on your obstetrician’s opinion, take multivitamins that provide you 400mcg of folic acid every day. 
  4. Replace animal protein with plant protein.
  5. Replace trans fats with something healthier as directed by your obstetrician.
  6. Include high doses of unsaturated fats aiding a good insulin sensitivity and counteract inflammation. Restrict or remove saturated fats.
  7. Women willing to conceive should include 400mcg of folic acid regularly.
  8. You may consider obtaining fortified foods or supplements apart from including foods rich in folate.
  9. Drink more water and replace sugary sodas possibly causing infertility. 
  10. Make sure that you perform physical activities within your comfort zone preferably every morning.