Nutritional advice, planning pregnancy, wellness

What are the prerequisites for good pregnancy care?

Pregnancy care remains one of the most significant topics in obstetrics and paediatrics. It may include healthy lifestyle choices such as taking prenatal vitamins and seeking the right consultation for pregnancy and wellness. Prenatal care is all about assuring nutrition that helps your body develop the right setup. Proteins, carbohydrates, healthy fats, minerals and vitamins help your body prevent exhaustion in various ways. 

Prenatal nutrition:

Evidence suggests that a high body mass index (BMI) before pregnancy, poor nutrition and excessive weight gain hamper the overall quality of pregnancy and childbirth. It may even contribute to non-communicable diseases. Both underweight and overweight new-borns may struggle with metabolic diseases in their lifetime. The mother’s health before pregnancy is affected by genetics and nutrition. These are the two main factors. The presence of congenital issues and exposure to occupational toxins are the other factors affecting the overall quality of pregnancy.

Pre-pregnancy weight influences your baby’s birth weight. Underweight women may give birth to small babies. Overweight women may be at a higher risk of high blood pressure or gestational diabetes. Consult your healthcare provider to find out more about healthy weight gain or loss toward healthy childbirth. 

Below are the basic guidelines:

  1. Avoid artificial sweeteners and drinks, sweets, cakes, biscuits and marmalades.
  2. Eat more unsaturated fats like nuts, healthy seeds, avocados.
  3. Lentils, beans, fruits and vegetables are the right suggestions.
  4. Avoid saturated or bad fats. Bad fats may further create problems like bad cholesterol. 
  5. Fried foods, pastries, biscuits, cakes and pies are the foods to avoid.
  6. Wholegrain high fibre foods are essential to ensure health throughout all the trimesters.
  7. Consider joining a pregnancy exercise class.
  8. Stay updated with every instruction given by your dietician/obstetrician.
  9. Yoga is one of the healthy ways to live. It’s helpful especially when you start preparing your body for a healthy pregnancy. 

Pregnancy tips on safety and nutrition:

Prenatal nutrition assures that the pregnancy is well-prepared and well-defined. Weight in proportion to height and dietary regimen are the two factors determining foetal health. Find out how many additional calories you may need in pregnancy. The concept called ‘eat for two’ may be a fact for some but a myth for many. A gradual rise in calories alongside the baby’s development will help you. If it’s your first trimester, you may need 0 extra calories. If you are in the second trimester, you may need up to 300-350 extra calories a day. If you are in the third trimester, you may need 450 extra calories.

Follow the guidelines and details given below:

  • DHA:

DHA is essential for your baby’s brain development and growth. DHA is known to help you maintain a healthy pregnancy all along. 

  • Vitamin C:

Vitamin C helps in the development of healing abilities. Vitamin C helps your baby develop teeth and bones.

  • Fat:

Fat is the energy we need. It’s one of the essentials that aid the development of your baby’s organs and placenta. Polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFAs) aid the growth of your baby’s nervous system, retina and brain. 

  • Calcium:

Calcium is one of the essentials in the healthy growth of your baby’s bones, teeth, muscles, nerve functions and heart functions. Calcium controls the overall inflow of fluid. 

  • Iodine:

Iodine is important for a healthy brain and a good nervous system. Substantial intake of iodine helps the baby move, feel and think appropriately. 

  • Protein:

Protein is helpful in the development of your baby’s tissue. It aids the growth of your baby’s breast and uterine tissue, muscles, and blood in pregnancy. 

  • Iron:

Iron is essential in the manufacture of haemoglobin. Haemoglobin is a protein present in red blood cells that carries oxygen to your tissues. The need to supply the blood adequately to the baby rises in pregnancy. The amount of blood in the body increases in pregnancy. 

  • Folic Acid:

Folic acid plays a crucial role in making blood during pregnancy. Folic acid is essential for the baby’s brain and spine. Folic acid is also a key element when it comes to preventing neural tube defects (NTD) in the baby. An adequate supply of folic acid helps prevent 70% of all NTDs. All these essentials contribute to a healthy pregnancy and wellness.?˜

Daily Nutrient Requirements:

  1. DHA – 200 mg/day
  2. Iodine – 220 mcg/day
  3. Vitamin C – 85mg/day
  4. Vitamin D – 600 IU/day
  5. Folic Acid – 60 mcg/day
  6. Iron – 27 mg/day
  7. Protein – 75-100 g /day
  8. Calcium – 1000 mg/day

Do you develop cravings?

The actual cause of food cravings in pregnancy isn’t well established. The majority of the researches suggest that hormonal changes in pregnancy may lead to cravings. Hormonal changes may make you more sensitive than ever to certain tastes and smells. It all ultimately leads to food cravings. Most obstetricians or midwives may suggest you satisfy your food cravings. It’s a good habit as long as the food you consume is nutritious. 

How essential is dental care in pregnancy?

A poor diet is likely to interfere with dental health. You should control your dental health and uplift it with:

  1. Regular dental treatments if and as needed
  2. Regular dental checks
  3. Floss
  4. Regular cleanliness dedicated to the overall dental upkeep.

How about your eating habits?

If you have a chronic health condition to manage, you may be on a restricted diet. Personal beliefs are also a reason why some women restrict their eating habits. If you are planning to conceive, start with a consultation with your obstetrician/GP. Some women may have an eating disorder like anorexia nervosa or bulimia. It’s important to design a proper diet in such cases. Some health forums are also available nowadays online. You may consider following the health forums. However, always ask your GP or obstetrician about what suits your overall pre-pregnancy health. 

Start practising food hygiene:

Food poisons are risky for everyone. Some foodborne illnesses are dangerous for your baby’s health even before you conceive. 

What foods to avoid while breastfeeding?

You may have just discovered that you might be pregnant. You are already feeling the excitement. And congratulations on starting one of the best phases of your life. However, your diet in pregnancy and breastfeeding influences your baby’s health in various ways. Breastfeeding care is also one of the most important subjects in postpartum health. The pre-pregnancy period gives you ample time to decide on the right diet and healthy lifestyle choices. 

Healthy breastfeeding diet – what does it mean?

A healthy pregnancy diet or breastfeeding diet doesn’t just mean eating for two. The facts may contradict a few beliefs prevailing today. The onset of the 3rd month of pregnancy implies that you just need an extra 200-300 kcal per day in addition to your diet before pregnancy. A healthy diet involves a mixture of various food items that satiate your nutritional requirements. Add lots of fruits, vegetables, beans and lentils with a small amount of dairy and meat if and as needed. 

What are the foods to avoid while breastfeeding?

While dietary essentials and multivitamins prescribed by your obstetrician/dietician are important, you should avoid certain foods and lifestyle habits while breastfeeding. 

Below are the foods to avoid while breastfeeding:

  • Fish with high mercury:

The consumption of fish high in mercury level or other foods with mercury may affect breastfeeding. Breast milk with high mercury levels may interfere with your baby’s neurological development. If your obstetrician asks you to avoid seafood, avoid it strictly. If you love to eat fish or seafood, make sure that you don’t exceed two portions a week. 

  • Peanuts:

It’s best to avoid peanuts if your family has a history of allergies to peanuts. The allergens in the peanuts might progress into the production of breastmilk. They may hamper your baby’s health. As a result, the baby may suffer from various health issues. The disorders may include hives or rashes and at times, cough with wheezing. Even a small consumption of peanuts ends up complicating the production and nutritional value of your breastmilk. 

  • Alcohol:

Never drink alcohol in pregnancy. Even occasional drinking is forbidden in certain cases. Alcohol tends to cross the placenta and hamper your baby’s growth in various ways. It may create physical, mental or growth issues in babies. Most obstetricians will forbid you from drinking alcohol the day you conceive. Avoiding alcohol while breastfeeding is as important as avoiding it throughout pregnancy.  

  • Citrus fruits:

Citrus fruits are known to give a sense of relaxation. They are perhaps the best source of Vitamin C. But they can interfere with your baby’s tummy as they are acidic. Babies have an amateur gastrointestinal tract. Therefore, it’s hard for their gastrointestinal tract to digest the acidic components. Babies may develop rashes and start spitting up after you breastfeed them. Although grapefruits and oranges can be fussy during breastfeeding, you won’t have to remove them from your diet. If you think you are prone to their adverse effects, opt for the other vitamin-C rich fruits. You may consider including pineapples or mangoes in your diet. 

  • Broccoli:

Broccoli is a vegetable that offers dozens of health benefits. But if you are to breastfeed your munchkin, avoid Broccoli. If you will breastfeed your baby after consuming Broccoli, your baby may develop flatulence or gassiness. Even onions, cauliflower, cabbage and cucumber cause flatulence. It’s best to avoid or restrict them while you breastfeed your baby. 

  • Coffee:

The various ways caffeine impacts the foetus are under scientific scrutiny. The amount of caffeine in coffee is double the amount in cocoa, colas and tea. Try to limit your coffee intake or abstain from it throughout your breastfeeding phase. Some portion of caffeine from the coffee you regularly consume may end up in your breast milk. Insomnia and irritability are the two main signs that caffeine in your breastmilk is affecting your child’s health. Caffeine may cause other detrimental effects. It may include a decrease in the levels of haemoglobin. Caffeine hampers the iron content in the milk interfering with the baby’s overall nutrition. 

  • Chocolate:

Chocolate, tea and coffee have a common feature. They stimulate the brain. They are the stimulants that uplift your mood. Chocolate is a rich source of Theobromine. Theobromine is known for an effect similar to caffeine. You might be a chocoholic. But it’s time now to take a break. If you are breastfeeding, restrict the occasions you prefer chocolate or chocolate drinks on. Analyse the way your baby behaves if you breastfeed your baby after enjoying your favourite chocolate. If you see irritation and crankiness in your baby, it’s a likely sign that chocolate traces in your breastmilk are affecting your baby. The erratic and grumpy behaviour of your baby becomes more evident if you consume over 750 mg of Theobromine every day. It may cause insomnia in the mother as well. 

  • Peppermint:

Herbs are known to cure old ailments. They act as a remedy when you have almost no other alternative around. They are helpful specifically if you are allergic to certain medications. But when the herbs like peppermint are taken in large doses, they may interfere with the production of breastmilk. The mothers who are lactating should always avoid peppermint. 

  • Garlic:

Breastmilk is vulnerable to various dietary habits and lifestyle choices. The smell of garlic may interfere with the smell of breastmilk. If your baby develops apathy or discomfort while nursing, it’s likely that your baby dislikes the breastmilk. Many babies start frowning when they encounter the smell of garlic. It’s better to avoid garlic when you are breastfeeding. 

  • Dairy products:

Food intolerances and food allergies are growing nowadays due to various reasons. Some babies may develop intolerance to cow milk. Allergens may enter breast milk if the mother is lactating and consuming dairy products in high quantity. Stop consuming dairy products temporarily if you see your baby developing an allergic reaction after you breastfeed your baby. Skin allergies, eczema and insomnia may follow if your baby is allergic to the breastmilk with traces of dairy products. Replace high-fat dairy products with something like organic food products or toned milk. 

How does a mother’s nutrition affect the foetus?

Impact of a mother's nutrition on fetal development - Motherhood Hospital India

Almost everyone close to an expectant mother motivates her to eat for two. How does it apply to pregnancy and pregnant women? Although it implies that pregnancy is a license to enjoy overeating, maternal nutrition is much above plenty of food. It means ample calories and proper nutrients are vital to a healthy pregnancy. Consuming the right foods and choosing the right diet allows full-fledged foetal development. The mother needs to gather the right bits of information on prenatal diet and supplements. The mother should plan her diet and ensure that the unborn is getting the proper nutrients. And certain tips for new mothers are a key to assuring health throughout all the trimesters.

Prenatal nutrition Ÿ?? An overview:

Nutrition is known as the most significant factor in healthy foetal development. The availability of the nutrients for the foetus depends on various factors. The factors may include nutritional stores, diet and maternal body composition. Prenatal nutrition stands as the most important determinant of various developments. It impacts foetal growth, physiological functionality and Gestational Weight Gain (GWG). Gestational Weight Gain (GWG) is a complex phenomenon contributing to active foetal growth and development. Maternal metabolism, maternal physiology and placental metabolism influence the GWG. The changes in maternal homeostasis interfere with the placental structure and function thereby influencing the growth of the foetus. 

How to count calories for pregnancy?

Exceptions may exist even in terms of maternal health as they do elsewhere. Many pregnant women feel perplexed that they don’t require any additional calories in the first trimester. The second trimester, however, may mark the onset of about 340 additional calories per day. The third trimester involves the consumption of about 450 additional calories every day. 

Weight gain remains a normal change in pregnancy. Most obstetricians view weight gain as a normal development in pregnancy. Maternal weight gain influences the growth of the foetus. Poor growth and shortened gestation may raise the risk of babies with low birth weight.?˜

How does pre-pregnancy nutrition affect foetal growth?

The maturation of sperm and oocytes mark the onset of the periconceptional period that occurs before fertilization. The period extends until the fertilized egg implants. The overall process completes relatively faster (about 9 days in humans) than expected. But various developmental, metabolic and genetic changes render the process different. The embryonic genome sees epigenetic changes. More formally, the changes to the DNA don’t alter the genetic code, they instead affect how a gene gets expressed by turning the expression on or off. 

 Such modifications are sensitive to environmental conditions and prominent nutrients. They might adjust to facilitate survival under available conditions. Nonetheless, the gene pattern may be deleterious in environmental conditions outside the uterus. It may ultimately contribute to ailments later in life. 

Epigenetic changes prevail throughout one’s lifetime. The periconceptional period, however, remains unique as only a small number of cells are present in the period. Complete exposure to the environment facilitates the overall cell population to consolidate a genetic program that prevails throughout the development. 

Does it influence the present situation? And how so if it does?

The concept doesn’t stand as a new trend. Previous analyses have studied the impact of periconceptional maternal nutrition on the disease and development of offspring. Maternal obesity or maternal overeating can negatively influence the metabolic regulation in a child. Various factors including undernutrition may raise the risk of metabolic disease in the offspring. 

Essential nutrients for pregnant women:

Various nutrients vital for maternal health determine the foetal health throughout the development of the foetus. Various nutrients shape foetal nutrition and development throughout pregnancy.

Below are the essential nutrients:

  • Iron:

Iron is an irreplaceable mineral carrying oxygen to the maternal and foetal organs and tissues. The dietary iron needs tend to double in pregnancy due to various reasons. Blood volume increases both for the mother and her unborn in pregnancy. The recommended iron dose for pregnant women is 27mg. Most dieticians and obstetricians recommend an iron-fortified prenatal vitamin. Red meats, leafy greens, oats, fortified grains, lentils and beans offer opulent iron content. Citrus fruits, peppers, tomatoes and strawberries in combination with iron-fortified vitamins or supplements will aid in iron digestion and absorption. 

  • Folate:

Healthcare professionals worldwide recognize folate as an essential nutrient for foetal growth. Folate stands as a vital nutrient for foetal brain development and spinal cord development. The folate deficiency is often linked to neural tube defects. Women should consider administering folate before they conceive. 

Pregnant women need at least 600 mcg of folate a day. Nuts, seeds, eggs, leafy green vegetables, broccoli and fruits are the rich sources of iron. Confide in your doctor while you are expecting. It’s best to openly discuss your medical history with your obstetrician. It helps your obstetrician to recommend the right dosage of folate and other nutrients. 

  • Calcium:

Calcium plays a crucial role in foetal bone development and teeth. It has a role even in maternal orthopaedic health. The scarcity of calcium in prenatal health leads to the exhaustion of the maternal calcium stores. Mother’s bones may suffer as a result. Calcium intake in expectant women may aid in dozens of healthy developments. 3-4 cups of dairy may suffice the daily requirement of 1000mg calcium. Soy products, broccoli, canned salmon, dark leafy vegetables are recommended in the absence of dairy. 500mg calcium may aid in better absorption of calcium. Various calcium supplements are available today in the marketplace.

  • Choline:

Choline is a dietary essential helping the brain and spinal cord maturation in pregnancy. Eggs, beans, nuts and animal products offer rich choline content. 

  • Vitamin D:

Vitamin D works in collaboration with calcium towards the healthy development of foetal bones and teeth. Therefore, most obstetricians maintain that Vitamin D is a must for pregnant women. The recommended dose of Vitamin D in pregnancy is 15 mcg. Sunlight, fatty fish, eggs, fortified milk and mushrooms are various sources of Vitamin D. 

  • Fibre:

Fibre always remains one of the most integral dietary essentials. Many pregnant women complain about developing constipation during pregnancy. Various fruits and vegetables rich in fibre are recommended right from the first trimester of pregnancy. Water is another natural resource that helps prevent constipation. 

How long can I go without eating while pregnant?

How long can I go without eating while pregnant?

Author – Dr. Shefali Tyagi MBBS, DGO, FRCOG, MRCOG, PGDMLE, PGDPC, FRANZCOG
Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynaecology at Motherhood Hospital, Sarjapur

Pregnancy is the phase where your body undergoes various changes. You start knowing these changes better as your delivery date gets closer. For a few people, these changes may be worrisome. If you begin to gain weight, you must realize that there are food items to keep you healthy. There may be many alternatives to opt for. Conceiving foods are those that help you maximize your fertility.

Most religions consider fasts as a ritual of gratitude towards god. And even atheists may practice fasts as a trend. But do you think it’s safe to observe fasts when you are pregnant or breastfeeding? Fasts you observe for religious causes are different from those observed to manage weight. 

How much weight gain is in a healthy range in pregnancy?

Mothers should always rely on a healthy and balanced diet plan as they plan to conceive or attain the conception. A healthy weight is mandatory to ensure that both mother and baby are in good health. 

  • The women with a normal body weight should aim for an increase of around 11kg to 16kg.
  • Women who are obese before their pregnancy shouldn’t gain above 7kg to 11kg as they become pregnant.
  • Women who are underweight before their pregnancy should seek their obstetrician’s advice. 
  • The obstetrician may consider checking your medical history.
  • Your obstetrician may recommend an increase of around 12kg to 18kg.

What conceiving foods should you add to your platter?

The day you prepare to conceive is perhaps the day that makes you more diet-conscious than ever. If you are preparing a platter that makes you fertile, here are the foods to add.

  • Beets:

Beets are perhaps the most underrated foods. Beetroots may help improve blood flow to the uterus. It ultimately aids embryo implantation.

  • Sweet potatoes:

Sweet potatoes contain beta-carotene, an ingredient best known to aid the production of progesterone.

  • Berries:

Folate and zinc are the two antioxidants known to deactivate the free radicals. Raspberries, blueberries and strawberries contain antioxidants that enhance fertility. Just add berries to your platter along with some healthy fat and proteins.

  • Walnuts:

If you enjoy a snack that spices up your evening, walnuts will be the best bet. Walnuts are an excellent source of Vitamin E and omega-3 fatty acids. They even contain B vitamins and protein. Apart from being turbocharged fibres, they are the only vegetarian foods containing omega-3 fatty acids. 

  • Sunflower seeds:

Male fertility is unquestionably as important as female fertility. Sunflower seeds improve sperm motility and boost the male libido by increasing the sperm count. Sunflower seeds make one of the best garnishes for your favourite delicacies.

  • Leafy green vegetables:

Green leafy vegetables are an all-time favourite for many. They are the evergreen boosters of health. But they are especially important when you are planning to get pregnant. Leafy green vegetables are a rich source of iron, folate, calcium and many other essential nutrients.

Is it safe to observe fast when you are pregnant?

Carrying a baby tends to increase your nutritional needs by about 300 calories per day. Fasting in pregnancy may be difficult. Some researches show that staying away from food or fasting for any length of time in pregnancy may contribute to the production of ketone bodies. Ketone bodies are the molecules produced by the liver in periods of low food consumption. They may leave adverse effects on the foetal health. These are the factors that predispose pregnant women to risks. You must abstain from fasts while carrying.

Most religious disciplines exempt pregnant and lactating women from fasts. Hydration is often the key to maximize your prenatal health naturally. Water plays a crucial role in the healthy growth of a baby. Therefore, it’s essential to stay hydrated in every phase of pregnancy. Many studies link dehydration to various health issues such as preterm labour, birth defects and low amniotic fluid. It’s best to seek your obstetrician’s guidance and stay under a midwife’s observation. Ask your dietician/obstetrician about how to round off a ‘conceiving diet’/pregnancy diet plan.

You should ask your obstetrician if it’s safe to observe a fast in pregnancy. Most obstetricians will ask you to drink at least 8 glasses of water a day. You may be asked to stay away from any strenuous physical activity. No two pregnancies are the same. If your obstetrician confirms that it’s safe to observe a fast, you may proceed. Your obstetrician may consider many other factors before allowing you to fast. The factors may be the trimester you are in, your medical history, previous deliveries and the medical conditions underlying. Your obstetrician may ask you to prevent loss of fluids.

How safe is it to observe fasts while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding adds more to the nutritional requirements. You may need at least 450 to 500 extra calories per day. You may gradually start feeling better and decide how you can start or continue fasting. Almost every religious discipline would exempt mothers who are breastfeeding from fasting. 

Most reputable obstetricians agree that fasting for a day doesn’t affect milk production or the mother’s health or baby’s health. The only condition for a fast in breastfeeding is that both mother and baby should be in good health. Moms should seek an obstetrician’s advice. Obstetricians may advise you to increase your fluid intake before fasting.

The other condition for a safe fast is your abstention from strenuous exercises. Fasts tend to burn too many calories. And if you are fasting, strenuous exercise may complicate the overall health. If you feel thirsty, it’s a likely sign redirecting you to increase your water intake. Moms who are breastfeeding should habituate themselves to regular water intake. A few additional glasses every day while nursing may elevate your overall approach.

However, your obstetrician may not want you to extend your fast on any grounds. Extending fasts while breastfeeding may hamper the milk quality. It may affect your baby’s health. Your obstetrician may even prevent you from observing a fast soon after the childbirth. The reason why you should abstain from fasting instantly after childbirth is exhaustion. Your body and your baby are recovering from exhaustion after delivery. Your body is busy establishing the maternal milk routine. A healthy breastfeeding diet is as important as healthy conceiving foods. Therefore, extending a fast in pregnancy or breastfeeding isn’t always a good idea. 

At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a team of experienced super specialists backed by the latest in infrastructure and facilities. We have the best fetal medicine specialists in Sarjapur Road, Bangalore. We are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynecological, and other surgeries including a range of laparoscopic surgeries.

Do take an appointment with the best maternity hospital in Sarjapur Road, Bangalore at a center 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. Shefali Thyagi, please book your appointment here.

How can I take care of myself during pregnancy?

Taking care of yourself and your baby is important. And the extensive care starts the day you realize that you are pregnant. Pregnancy care is easier than expected, specifically when you start it at the earliest. The concept of pregnancy care or prenatal care may include various healthy lifestyle choices. Right from taking prenatal vitamins to scheduling appointments with your obstetrician, a healthy pregnancy denotes all you can start methodically. 

How much weight gain is normal or essential in pregnancy?

Your obstetrician or midwife will guide you about healthy weight gain. It happens to be different for everyone. Nonetheless, most women gain about 25 to 30 pounds. Underweight women may have to gain more weight as directed by their obstetrician. Being overweight or underweight demands different dietary interventions. It may further depend upon various parameters like your BMI and medical history.

How do you wish to begin your journey?

A journey that starts with the first trimester spans 9 months of ecstasy and a bit of nervousness. Start with an appointment with your obstetrician. Schedule an appointment immediately as you find that you have sprained your ankle. Your obstetrician will start with knowing about your medical history. Doctors may ask you about the symptoms you developed after your pregnancy began. Your obstetrician may subsequently give you some invaluable pregnancy tips on safety and nutrition. 

  • Start with quitting smoking:

That’s the best thing you can ever do for yourself and your baby. Countless studies worldwide show that women exposed to smoke are less likely to conceive. They may not carry their pregnancy to term even if they conceive. And smoking predisposes you to grave complications in labour. Studies associate smoking with an increased risk of having a premature baby or stillbirth. It’s perhaps the best time to kick the butt. 

  • Enjoy a diet that balances your nutritional requirements:

Eat plenty of vegetables and fruits. Carbohydrates may fulfil your nutritional requirements. Beans, cheese, meat, fish, pulses and eggs are those dietary essentials you should start counting on. Based on your pre-pregnancy health, you may consider including an additional meal in your diet. Both perennial and seasonal fruits help you maintain a healthy regimen. Green leafy vegetables are jampacked with iron and folic acid. Start eating nuts and make yourself full of vigour and vitality throughout the pregnancy.?˜

  • Start practising a lifestyle full of hygiene and sanitation:

Wash your hands frequently. Use a soap preferably recommended by your obstetrician or midwife. The importance of hygiene and sanitation is growing day by day. Make sure that your hands are thoroughly sanitized before and after every meal. Trim your nails frequently. Personal hygiene helps you prevent infections and transmitting them to the baby.

  • Mild physical activity in pregnancy:

You may consider joining a pregnancy exercise class. Many yoga classes held today will give you the right knowledge on exercise in pregnancy. It’s great to exercise every day unless you have issues regularizing your exercise. Exercise helps you thrive on a healthy lifestyle and avoid tedium. Try to exercise for 30 minutes every day. Enjoy slow walks in the garden or lawn instead of brisk walks. Swimming is another choice that makes your day. Hydrating yourself is mandatory to assure that you don’t suffer from heats or dehydration. Dehydration is a common concern in the second trimester. Avoid any exercises causing a fall or skid. Wear skid-proof footwear. 

It’s best to contact your GP or obstetrician if you develop the following symptoms while exercising:

  1. Backache
  2. Chest pain
  3. Dizziness
  4. Blurred vision
  5. Loss of orientation 
  • It’s better to jot down all:

You may have many things to consider as you conceive and start nearing childbirth. You may take many things into account. Think about your medical history, your preferences, your current health status and your immediate surroundings. Write down all you wish to follow and include.

Following are the things you may consider including in your diary:

  1. How would you include pain medications?
  2. Special clothes you wish to wear
  3. Your favourite music/tracks
  4. Positions you prefer for labour and childbirth
  5. If you wish to avoid any procedures
  6. Plans to cope with complications if you have a medical history as such

How would you avoid or cope with the common pregnancy concerns?

  • Morning sickness:

Nauseous sensations are common mostly in the broad daylight during pregnancy. It’s better to plan small meals and eat them exactly as planned. Avoid anything that tastes spicy or acidic. Acidic foods may complicate your morning sickness in various ways. It’s better to confide in your obstetrician or midwife if your morning sickness lasts longer than 3 months. Morning sickness and weight loss may be the signs that foretell complications. Bring those to your obstetrician’s notice if weight loss accompanies 3 extensive months of morning sickness. 

  • Muscle cramps:

Muscle cramps or leg cramps may not be there to stay. If mild physical activity accompanies your midwife’s suggestions, you may avoid leg cramps easily. Stretch the calves of your legs by flexing your feet towards your knees. Drink plenty of water as directed by your obstetrician.

  • Tiredness:

Nothing is as common as tiredness and doldrums when you are pregnant. Take naps each time you feel overridden by doldrums. Make sure you aren’t anaemic. If you are anaemic, take every necessary precaution as your obstetrician guides you. 

  • Constipation:

Fibre happens to be the best natural source available if you feel constipated. Drink plenty of water. Fruits, vegetables and cereals may suffice. Laxatives can be dangerous in pregnancy. Don’t take any laxatives unless your obstetrician asks you. Prefer stool softeners over hard laxatives.

  • Haemorrhoids:

Constipation can be a precursor to Haemorrhoids. Avoid straining while passing the stool. Use stool softeners instead of any laxatives. 

  • Varicose Veins:

Don’t use tight clothes around your waistline or legs. Rest with your feet facing the ceiling. Don’t sit in an uncomfortable posture for a long time. Avoid standing for an extended period. 

  • Downright moodiness:

Hormonal changes are prevalent in pregnancy. It’s not new for a pregnant lady to develop moodiness in pregnancy. Life is all set to welcome a pleasant change. Get set for it with open arms. Avoid being rough on yourself. Consult the right psychiatrist if you feel overridden by nervousness or depressive thoughts. 

Hypothyroidism and its effect on unborn child By Dr Tulika, Motherhood Hospital, Noida

In India, thyroid diseases are quite prevalent in expecting women. It has been found that the occurrence of hypothyroidism, a condition in which the thyroid gland doesnŸ??t produce certain crucial hormones in the body, in pregnant women in India is between four and six per cent on an average. However, the similar condition affects only two to three per cent of pregnant women in western countries.

Unchecked or untreated hypothyroidism during pregnancy leads to preterm birth and low birth weight in the babies. So, itŸ??s important that a woman should get herself checked for thyroid especially during pregnancy because the fetus relies on the mother for thyroid hormones in the first few months of conception.  The thyroid hormones present in the motherŸ??s body essay an essential role in normal brain development of the unborn child and thus, deprivation of the maternal thyroid hormone due to hypothyroidism can have unalterable effects on the fetus.

Even studies have presented that those children, who were born out of hypothyroidism mothers during pregnancy, have lower IQ and impaired psycho-motor (mental and motor) development. But, fret not!  If the condition is properly controlled and treated well, then those women with hypothyroidism can also have healthier babies.

Effect of Hypothyroidism on unborn child and mother

Since the thyroid gland of the unborn child takes time to function on its own, itŸ??s completely dependent on the mother for the thyroid hormones.  Development and functioning of baby’s thyroid gland do not take place until about the end of the first trimester of pregnancy. Therefore, it’s suggested that women should start getting their thyroid disorder managed before conceiving so that impaired neurological functioning, stunted growth and physical deformities in the children can be avoided.

There is always best to plan for pregnancy and to consult with your physician to ensure your thyroid status and treatment are optimized prior to becoming pregnant and monitored throughout your pregnancy. However, if this does not happen and you find out you are pregnant, you should contact your physician immediately to arrange for increased testing of your thyroid functions and a potential change in your medication.

Untreated or poorly controlled hypothyroidism can also lead to:

Miscarriage

Premature birth

Pre-eclampsia

Stillbirth

So, it is vital for pregnant women with hypothyroidism to take the recommended thyroid medication consistently.

How is hypothyroidism treated during pregnancy?

The treatment of hypothyroidism in pregnant women is similar to that of who are non-pregnant. Doctors recommend synthetic T4 so that it compensates the presence of essential hormones in the body. The medication should be taken regularly so that a steady blood level of thyroid hormone gets adjusted within the normal range as the requirement of thyroid hormones increases during pregnancy. Therefore, it is a routine practice to monitor the blood level of the thyroid stimulating hormone (TSH) during pregnancy. Hyperthyroidism women can have healthy pregnancy by getting early prenatal care and working with their healthcare providers in the management of their disease.

How to find the right gynaecologist for your pregnancy?

Maternity healthcare guide: Best gynecologist for your pregnancy - Motherhood Hospital India

Finding a gynecologist for your pregnancy can feel like a huge task. However, itŸ??s of paramount importance as your health, and your babyŸ??s health depends on it.

Get referrals: Consult your primary care doctor and friends for recommendations for a referral list. Research the doctorsŸ?? credentials and experience and ask for a consultation before finalizing the gynecologist.

Check the credentials: Check for any special certification that shows the doctor has the necessary training, skills, and experience to provide gynecologic care.

Consider the experience: Experience matters. The more experience a doctor has with a condition or procedure, the better your results are likely to be.

Research hospital quality: Your gynecologistŸ??s hospital is going to be your hospital. Therefore, consider the quality of care at the hospital because patients at top-rated hospitals have fewer complications.

Read reviews: Reading reviews about the gynecologist on what other people have to say can sometimes provide insight into how a doctor practices and how he/she delivers care.

Book an appointment at Motherhood Hospitals. It offers a complete birthing experience to couples by hand-holding them through their journey towards parenthood. We have a team of obstetricians/gynecologists who are highly experienced in pregnancy care and birthing. With the highest standards of clinical competency, backed by state-of-art technology and proven protocols, Motherhood is committed to offering the best outcomes for the mother and child.

Services we offer include:

Comprehensive pregnancy care, preconception care, pregnancy care, high-risk pregnancy care, 3D/4D ultrasound, early pregnancy scan, NT scan, anomaly scan, growth scan, maternal-foetal medicine, vaccination, antenatal classes, diet and nutrition plan by clinical dietician, exercise during pregnancy designed by highly experienced physiotherapist, antenatal workshops, Lamaze, lactation counseling, postnatal nutrition, postnatal fitness, 24×7 emergency care

When do you need to see a doctor immediately during the initial days of pregnancy?

Essential Pregnancy Care: Early Pregnancy Health Tips - Motherhood Hospital India

The initial days of pregnancy are very crucial for the well-being of the mother and the overall health of the baby. See your doctor immediately if you notice:

  • Vaginal Bleeding: Some spotting is normal, but heavy bleeding could be a sign of miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.
  • Excessive nausea and vomiting
  • High Fever: A fever greater than 101 degrees Fahrenheit during pregnancy may be serious.
  • Pain or burning during urination
  • Leg or calf pain, or swelling on one side/severe headache
  • Recurrence of chronic diseases: Women who have certain pre-existing medical conditions such as thyroid disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, asthma, and/or lupus should note any changes in their condition during pregnancy.

If you face any of the above conditions, book an appointment with Motherhood Hospitals. We have a team of obstetricians/gynaecologists who are highly experienced in pregnancy care and birthing. With the highest standards of clinical competency, backed by state-of-art technology and proven protocols, Motherhood is committed to offering the best outcomes for the mother and child.

We also have 24*7 obstetricians/gynaecologists for emergency care, 24*7 well-equipped ambulance services,  pregnancy care, high-risk pregnancy care, early pregnancy scan, NT scan, anomaly scan, growth scan, 3D/4D ultrasound, maternal-foetal medicine, vaccination, antenatal classes, diet and nutrition plan by clinical dietician, exercise during pregnancy designed by highly experienced physiotherapist, antenatal workshops, Lamaze, lactation counselling, postnatal nutrition, postnatal fitness, 24×7 emergency care.

How much weight should you gain during pregnancy? Is it safe to exercise during pregnancy ?

A woman who was of average weight before getting pregnant should gain 12 to 15 kg after becoming pregnant. Underweight women should gain 13 to 18 kg. Overweight women may need to gain only 7 to 12 kg during pregnancy.

In general, you should gain about 1 to 2 kg during the first three months youŸ??re pregnant and 1 kg a week during the rest of your pregnancy.

It is safe to exercise during pregnancy if you exercise with caution and don’t overdo it. A regular exercise routine throughout your pregnancy can help you stay healthy. It can improve your posture and decrease some common discomforts such as backaches and fatigue.

The safest and most productive exercises include swimming, brisk walking, indoor cycling and low-impact aerobics. These activities carry little risk of injury, benefit your entire body and can be continued until birth.

If you have never exercised regularly before, you can safely begin an exercise program during pregnancy after consulting with your gynaecologist. If you have asthma, heart disease or diabetes, exercise may not be advisable. Exercise may also be harmful if you have a pregnancy-related condition such as bleeding or spotting, low placenta, recurrent miscarriage etc.

At Motherhood hospitals, we offer exercises during pregnancy designed by highly experienced clinical physiotherapists who organise weekly Lamaze classes to keep you fit and active during your pregnancy. Book an appointment with Motherhood Hospitals. We have a team of obstetricians/gynaecologists who are highly experienced in pregnancy care and birthing. With the highest standards of clinical competency, backed by state-of-art technology and proven protocols, Motherhood is committed to offering the best outcomes for the mother and child.

We also have 24*7 obstetricians/gynaecologists for emergency care, 24*7 well-equipped ambulance services,  pregnancy care, high-risk pregnancy care, 3D/4D ultrasound, early pregnancy scan, NT scan, anomaly scan, growth scan, maternal-foetal medicine, vaccination, antenatal classes, diet and nutrition plan by clinical dietician, exercise during pregnancy designed by highly experienced physiotherapist, antenatal workshops, Lamaze, lactation counselling, postnatal nutrition, postnatal fitness, 24×7 emergency care.

Dos and don’ts of nutrition during first few weeks of pregnancy

A healthy and balanced diet during pregnancy requires fine-tuning your eating habits to ensure you are receiving enough nutrition for your own health and that of your baby. You must eat from a variety of food groups including fruits, vegetables, bread grains, protein sources and dairy products.

Fruits and Vegetables: Fruits and vegetables contain many important nutrients for pregnancy especially, vitamin C and folic acid.

Bread and Grains: A woman needs energy during pregnancy and it comes from carbohydrates. These essential ingredients are found in bread and grains. One can also get the required amount of folic acid from fortified bread and cereal.

Protein: Meat, poultry, fish, eggs and beans contain the protein, B vitamins and iron needed during pregnancy.

Dairy Products: Calcium is needed to support pregnancy as it helps build strong teeth and bones, normal blood clotting and muscle and nerve function.

Prenatal Vitamins: A daily prenatal vitamin can help fill small gaps, just in case you unintentionally do not get enough key nutrients. Consult your gynaecologist about which supplement is best for you.

Can you drink alcohol if you are pregnant?

The straightforward answer is Ÿ??noŸ??. ItŸ??s safest not to drink alcohol at all during pregnancy. Drinking alcohol during pregnancy can pose a long-term risk to your unborn baby and the more you drink, the higher the risks. ItŸ??s especially important to stay off alcohol in the first trimester, because of the risk of miscarriage.

However, if you do decide to drink while youŸ??re pregnant, limit it to one or two units of alcohol, no more than once or twice a week and never enough to get drunk.

Book an appointment with Motherhood hospitals. We have clinical dieticians highly experienced in planning a balanced diet and nutrition plan for women and their special needs during pregnancy and after pregnancy. We also have 24*7 obstetricians/gynaecologists for emergency care, 24*7 well-equipped ambulance services,?˜ pregnancy care, high-risk pregnancy care, 3D/4D ultrasound, early pregnancy scan, NT scan, anomaly scan, growth scan, maternal-foetal medicine, vaccination, antenatal classes, diet and nutrition plan by clinical dietician, exercise during pregnancy designed by highly experienced physiotherapist, antenatal workshops, Lamaze, lactation counselling, postnatal nutrition, postnatal fitness, 24×7 emergency care.