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.

ORAL CARE AND PREGNANCY- Blog by Dr. Omar Farookh

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

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

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

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

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

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

What is an Epidural Anesthesia?

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

What is Labor Epidurals?

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

How does Labor Epidurals work?

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

How Is Epidural Administered?

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

Are there any risks related to Labor Epidurals?

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

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

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

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

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

Changes in human body during pregnancy

Human body undergoes enormous changes during pregnancy. It affects the body from head to toes. It is amazing how the body accommodates the baby so smoothly.

1) There is a new growth spurt in hair, glow on the face and bleeding gums because of increased estrogen in the blood.

2) Increased pigmentation on face ,neck , nipples and abdomen due to increase in melanin . This pigmentation is also known as melasma or chloasma or PREGNANCY MASK.

3) Water retention leading to puffiness of face , swelling of fingers and toes . Swelling around sciatic nerve causes pain in lower back and thigh . Contact lens users feel difficulty in their usage.

4) There is marked increase in the size of breasts as they need to get ready for nursing the baby.

5) Dryness of skin and breakage of collagen leading to stretch marks.

6) Constipation because of progesterone ,the hormone of pregnancy ,it is known to make the bowel sluggish.

7) Joints and ligaments loosen around pelvis and other places because of pregnancy hormones specially RELAXIN, this helps for accommodating baby and delivery. Loosening also results in back pain, change in gait WADDLING.

8) Increase in body temperature, heart rate and breathlessness due to increase in metabolic rate and increased cardiac output.

9) Increase in stagnation of venous blood flow leads to hemorrhoids or piles, varicose veins.

10) Acne worsens as the hormonal shift makes skin very oily.

By,

Dr. Suhasini Inamdar

Hernia in Pregnancy By Dr. Sangeeta Gomes

Dr. Sangeeta Maternal guidance on hernia in pregnancy - Motherhood Hospital India

Hernia is a hole or gap in the abdominal muscle wall that causes either intestine or fatty tissue to protrude through.

Areas of Hernia: Abdomen, Groin, Incisional sites.

Hernia types:

  • Umbilical or belly button: Umbilical Hernia is the most common of Hernias in pregnancy. It is the site where umbilical cord is attached when child is born. There is a small opening in this area and an increased pressure can stretch it open. It appears in pregnancy and disappears after delivery.
  • Inguinal hernia/Femoral hernia: These are seen in the groin area.
  • Incisional hernia: It develops in the operation site, and is usually seen in vertical scar on abdomen.

Hernia normally occurs after 18-20 weeks of pregnancy and around 2% of women get Hernia during or after their pregnancy. Approximately 0.02% of women require surgery.

2 per 1000 women with transverse incision and 10 to 30% women with vertical incision can get hernia.

Hernia in pregnancy does not require immediate attention, unless it becomes painful. If painful and left untreated can lead to serious and life-threatening complications like obstruction and intestinal gangrene.

Babies may not get affected by mothers Hernia.10-30% of infants have umbilical hernia after birth which usually closes by 1 year and 2% remain which may require surgery.

Predisposing factors:

  • Women having muscle weakness from birth.
  • Aggregating factors like chronic cough, constipation, asthma and obesity
  • Big baby, twins, polyhydramnios can also stretch muscle making them thin and weak, and tear them due to pressure of growing baby in uterus.
  • Heavy weight lifting.
  • Fluid in the abdomen.
  • Tumor in the abdomen raising intra-abdominal pressure.

Signs and symptoms of Hernia:

Many women have no symptoms. Some can see or feel a bulge while lying down, standing or coughing, in the inguinal or belly button area. Some have dull aching pain while laughing talking, coughing and sneezing. Some may find difficult to walk if they become bigger. If symptoms like pain, fever, nausea are there, they should meet the doctor immediately.

Diagnostic tests:

  • By physical examination on inspection and palpation feeling the gap in the hernia site and reducing the contents back into the abdomen.
  • By cough impulse one can feel the touch of the intestine gurgling in the hernia site.
  • Ultrasound examination of abdomen and pelvis can show the site, size, shape and contents of the gap. Higher test like CT scan also be done.

Treatment of hernia:

Once detected treat with good physical support at the site of a hernia to prevent the further discomfort. Hernia support band, compression therapy groin bands etc to be used under DoctorŸ??s supervision. While sleeping take off the hernia support band. Keep pillow between or under knees for support.

ItŸ??s not recommended to have surgery during pregnancy unless its posing risk to the mother and baby. If due to some complication, surgery has to be done, plan it in second trimester of pregnancy. This carries a risk of preterm delivery.

For Pregnancy with Hernia, Caesarian section is not mandatory, they can deliver normally. Caesarian section is done only if obstetrics reasons are there. After delivery allow the body to recover fully which can be from 3 to 6 months. Then surgery can be done, if Hernia persists.

Tips for Prevention:

  • Go for pre-conception counseling which includes general and physical examination to rule out Hernia.
  • Minimize excess physical activity like lifting heavy weight.
  • Yoga and muscle strengthening exercises under guidance
  • Maintain healthy body weight
  • Maintain balance diet, avoid constipation.
  • Avoid lifting or carrying children in arm.
  • Avoid smoking, and avoid pushing hard during bowel movement or passing urine.

Types of surgery:

  • Open method
  • Laparoscopic method

In both the methods hernia gap is repaired using a mesh.

By,
Dr.Sangeeta Gomes