January 2022 - Prega News | Pregnancy Test | Pregnancy Test at Home | Pregnancy Test Kit

Month: January 2022

Trying to conceive? Here are 10 things you should avoid.

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If you are trying to conceive and are bringing home the Prega News Kit, this is a must read for you. Whether you are just starting to plan a child or already trying, a pregnancy test is the easiest way to find out if you have succeeded. However, seeing the Prega News test result as negative can be a disappointing feeling. This may be due to many factors. Maybe you just started trying or you have underlying health conditions or maybe you even missed your ovulation window – whatever be the reason, there are some things that you should always avoid when trying to conceive. These things are very important and can not only affect your chances of conception but also your fertility. That’s why, Prega News – India’s No. 1 Pregnancy detection kit* has put together this quick checklist for people who are trying to conceive. So let’s have a look at some of the things to follow and avoid while trying to have a baby.

Food Habits 

While you may think that you’re overall maintaining  good food habit, there may be some hidden factors that can affect your fertility. What you put in your body is extremely important at every stage and more so, when you are trying to conceive. While some foods can affect fertility, others can be harmful for your unborn child.

●       Junk food: Avoiding junk food is always recommended. While an occasional indulgence is considered okay, studies shows that women who regularly consume junk food, have a difficult time while conceiving. It is not only bad for the body but can also significantly delay the pregnancy.

●       Mercury rich food: While seafood and fish are generally considered good sources of protein and zinc, certain fish like swordfish, salmon, shark etc. are best avoided if you are trying to conceive. These have a high content of mercury and while it doesn’t affect adults, it can stay in your bloodstream and affect fertility and even hamper the brain and nervous system development in the foetus.

●       Excess refined sugar: Added sugar such as found in artificial juices and soda, have a harmful effect on both female and male fertility. It causes an insulin spike, which in turn hampers the ovaries and essential hormones.

Lifestyle Habits

Lifestyle has a significant impact on fertility and pregnancy. From small to big changes – there are some lifestyle habits that should be avoided when trying to start a family.

●       Smoking, alcohol, caffeine and recreational drugs: The illeffects of smoking, alcohol and recreational drugs are well-known and are well-avoided by everyone, more so if you’re trying to get pregnant. Enjoying an occasional beverage or savouring that morning cup of coffee is considered to be alright, but is best avoided or limited when you’re planning to conceive. The effects of all these are harmful for the baby and also for your fertility.

●       Stress: Stress has shown to be an increasingly important factor in infertility – our lifestyle causes stress and this can hamper both male and female fertility.

●       Heavy or no exercise: Anything in excess is bad and this is true even for exercise – leading a dormant lifestyle or working out too much can both affect your ability to conceive.

●       Sudden weight gain or loss: Ideally, you should already be at a good place when planning a family, so avoid shedding too much weight or putting on too much when trying to get pregnant. Both of these, when occurring suddenly in a body, can impact  fertility.

●       Inadequate sleep: A very crucial factor – a good night’s rest is absolutely essential for your body to heal, recover and rejuvenate. This allows enough time for your hormones and reproductive health to be prepared for the next stage.

●       Sperm harming lubricants: Some lubricants can harm the sperms, disrupt the pH balance and ultimately affect your chances of conception. Use natural lubricants or natural ingredient based lubricants instead.

●       Skipping vaccines: It is understandable that you may have concerns around trying to take  a COVID vaccine or any other vaccine – however, it is best to leave that decision up to your doctor who can decide the best vaccines for you.

Tips to Boost Fertility

Before looking up, ‘trying to conceive tips’, it is important to understand all the factors that affect fertility as explained above. Apart from avoiding the above things, there are certain things that can help boost your fertility:

●       Eat healthy – including  fruits and vegetables, good natural sources of protein and cut back on trans-fat and refined or processed food.

●       Exercise regularly – whether it’s a walk or a lap in the pool – include some physical activity in your routine to stay active and maintain a healthy weight.

●       Monitor your ovulation and menstrual cycle to look for the best fertile window.

●       Get regular check-ups and prenatal tests to stay healthy.

●       Consult your doctor for supplements and prenatal vitamins.

●       Stay hydrated – a much less discussed topic but very important – have enough fluids to stay hydrated throughout the day.

●       Practice meditation and take your time to relax to fight stress and boost your fertility.

●       Choose organic vegetables to reduce the toxins in your body and get the most nutrients naturally.

●       Having sex regularly also increases your chances of conception – so make sure to keep things interesting and genuinely enjoy the act rather than putting pressure on it.

●       Be kind towards yourself and your partner – in the process of trying and especially if you are trying to conceive after miscarriage – it’s important to love and appreciate each other to keep things harmonious and keep stress at bay.

 

FAQ

Can I still smoke while trying to conceive?

Smoking can not only affect your fertility but also impact the growth and development of your unborn child. It is best to quit smoking as soon as you can or at least a few months before trying to conceive.

Will caffeine be harmful for pregnancy in the near future?

While moderate amounts of caffeine are considered to be okay during and before pregnancy, it’s best to consult your doctor to assess your health and understand how much caffeine is safe for you.

Pregnancy and PCOS

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PCOS and pregnancy – this is perhaps one of the most discussed topics among women who are trying to get pregnant. While there is an increased awareness about the same, many women may not notice that they have it till they try to conceive. While PCOS can cause complications in conceiving, pregnancy and childbirth, it is now possible to treat the symptoms and conceive and deliver babies safely with the right steps and doctor’s suggestions. In order to fully understand the complications and treatment, let us understand the disease and why it happens.

What is PCOS?

Polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS is a hormonal disbalance in women who are of reproductive age. In this condition, the ovaries of the woman may become enlarged and they may develop numerous harmless fluid filled sacs (follicles). These follicles are underdeveloped sacs which are meant for developing eggs – when you have PCOS, these follicles fail to release the matured eggs.

Common symptoms of PCOS

PCOS is very common in recent days and affects many women. While these symptoms can be treated, some women do not even face any of the symptoms, thus it may go undiagnosed. The symptoms of PCOS can get worse if one is overweight or obese. Here are some symptoms of PCOS that you can notice:

●        Irregular periods or no periods at all

●        Excessive pain during periods accompanied with heavy flow

●        Excess male hormones or androgen that can cause hirsutism i.e. growth of hair on the face, back, chest or butt

●        Oily skin and breakouts like acne

●        Thinning of hair or hair loss resulting in male pattern baldness

●        Excessive weight gain

●        Difficulty in conceiving

●        Pain in the pelvic area

●        Anxiety and depression

How to manage PCOS

While PCOS cannot be fully cured, the symptoms can be treated to make them more manageable and even aid in getting pregnant. In order to understand how to manage PCOS, it’s important to understand the causes of the same.

PCOS is caused by excessive male hormone or androgen, which can also be triggered by excess insulin production, the hormone responsible for maintaining blood sugar levels. Many women with PCOS are insulin resistant, meaning that their body produces more of it, thus worsening the condition. PCOS can also be hereditary and aggravates with increased weight gain. Some ways to manage PCOS are as below:

●        Eating a healthy and balanced diet

●        Losing weight

●        Cutting down on or avoiding smoking and alcohol

●        Hormonal  medications (like birth control pills) that help regulate hormone levels

●        Laparoscopic ovarian drilling – a simple surgical procedure that uses heat or laser to destroy the tissues that produce the male hormones like testosterones

Pregnancy complications in PCOS

While many women do successfully become pregnant, with some lifestyle changes, there are others who may struggle more. PCOS generally decreases the chances of conception as the increased levels of male hormones deter the maturation  and release of eggs. PCOS also poses other threats to pregnant women like gestational diabetes, miscarriage, premature birth and high blood pressure. Women with high blood pressure are also at the risk of developing other diseases like Type 2 diabetes, cardiovascular diseases, high cholesterol, sleep apnea and more. All these collectively can negatively impact you or your baby. With PCOS, women also may need to deliver via C-section.

However, not all hope is lost if you have PCOS and want to have a baby. With the advent of modern technology, it is now possible to safely conceive and carry your baby to term. The first important step in this regard is to do a full body checkup to understand the present condition. As many women do not have symptoms, it’s best to ask your doctor about PCOS if you’re having trouble conceiving or have family members who suffer from the same. It may be possible that you have PCOS without symptoms or may be experiencing other things that affect fertility. Depending on the condition, your doctor may suggest a few things to successfully conceive. These can include the following:

●        Losing weight – weight loss (even 5-10%) has shown to drastically increase the chances of conceiving and also managing the symptoms of PCOS

●        Monitoring hormone levels, noting down menstrual cycles and tracking ovulation cycle can also help assess the situation better and thus prepare accordingly for the same

●        Medications – if the above two fail, your doctor can put you on some fertility medications to increase your chances at conceiving naturally

●        If medications fail, you can always consult doctors at fertility clinics to explore options like IVF

Key takeaway

PCOS in women is nowadays more common than ever which has in turn led to more knowledge about the same. While this was relatively much less talked about in the previous generations, it is now a common term and one that women are mostly aware about. All this information and knowledge has also led to increased research and studies on the same. This has enabled women with PCOS to lead relatively normal lives, where they are able to conceive and deliver safely and also manage the symptoms of PCOS.

FAQ

What happens to PCOS during pregnancy?

PCOS is not a fully treatable disease and thus doesn’t fully go away. However, with some lifestyle changes and medications, one can manage the symptoms well. During pregnancy, it’s best to keep a close eye on your health due to health risks of PCOS and pregnancy. Follow the doctor’s advice and stay healthy to minimize the effects of PCOS on pregnancy.

How does PCOS affect early pregnancy?

PCOS causes many diseases in women like diabetes, high blood pressure and cholesterol etc. which in turn can affect the unborn child. Women with PCOS are also at a higher risk of miscarriage but with the proper knowledge, precautions and doctor’s guidance it is possible to have safe pregnancy and delivery even with PCOS.

Can PCOS cause birth defects?

While studies do not offer a conclusive result on whether PCOS causes birth defects, the other symptoms and side effects of PCOS can negatively impact your or your child’s health during childbirth. Thus it’s best to know more about PCOS and follow all the doctor’s suggestions on the same.

What is the success rate of pregnancy with PCOS?

While many women struggle to get pregnant with PCOS, most women are able to do so with some lifestyle changes like losing weight, avoiding smoking and alcohol and consulting doctors for other changes and medication.

What happens if PCOS is left untreated?

If left untreated, PCOS can worsen the other symptoms thus leading to poor health and increased health risks caused by high blood pressure and cholesterol (which in turn affect cardiovascular health), diabetes, sleep apnea etc. 

UTI during pregnancy

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UTI or urinary tract infection can be a painful and uncomfortable infection that can even hamper your daily routine. During pregnancy, women are prone to such infections, due to various reasons. However, with the right information and watching out for symptoms can help detect this early and prevent the spread of the infection. Let’s find out more about UTI and what causes it to ensure a safer and healthier pregnancy.

What is UTI?

A urinary tract infection or UTI is an infection that affects any part of your urinary system like kidneys, ureters, urethra and bladder. However, the most commonly affected parts are the lower urinary organs like bladder and urethra.

What are the UTI symptoms?

UTI can cause much discomfort and pain. However, if you are aware of the symptoms, you can diagnose it at the very start, before the infection spreads to other parts like the kidneys, which can make it much worse. Here are the symptoms of UTI to watch out for:

●        Frequent urge to pee

●        Burning sensation while peeing

●        Passing small amounts of urine, frequently

●        Urine that smells unpleasant

●        Unnatural colour of urine – red or pink indicating blood in urine

●        Pain or pressure in the lower back or abdomen (usually in women)

●        Fever or chills – this indicates a more severe infection

Why is it common during pregnancy?

There are multiple reasons why UTI can occur more frequently in pregnant women. Apart from your body growing and adjusting and decreased immunity levels, the following conditions may cause UTI in pregnant women:

●        Pregnancy hormones cause changes in the urinary tract thus making women more susceptible to urinary tract infections

●        Hormone changes also cause a condition called vesicoureteral reflux which causes urine to flow back to kidney from the bladder, thus causing UTI

●        A pregnant woman’s urine also has more hormones, protein and sugar in it, thus making the woman more prone to UTI

●        As the growing uterus in pregnant women puts more pressure on the bladder, they become unable to pass all the urine – this leftover urine can cause UTI

What causes urine infection?

Apart from the factors mentioned above there are some anatomical and other causes that make women more prone to UTI. Primarily, they are caused by bacteria, but there can be other causes too, as follows:

●        E.coli bacteria, which is present in poop, can move from your rectum to your vagina, causing UTI

●        Sexual activities during pregnancy or otherwise involving partner’s fingers or devices that may be unclean can cause UTI

●        Many women have a bacteria called Group B streptococcus in their vagina and colon, which can result in UTI

●        Women have shorter urethras than men thus making it easier for the E.coli bacteria to move from the anus to your vagina, and gradually even up to the kidneys

●        Some types of birth control like diaphragms and spermicidal agents increase the chances of getting an UTI

●        Post menopause, the decline in estrogen causes changes in the urinary tract, thus increasing the risks of UTI

●        A compromised immunity system especially caused by other lifestyle diseases can make you more prone to UTI

●        Blockage in the urinary tract caused by kidney stones can make people more prone to UTI

●        Abnormal urinary tract systems at birth can cause more UTI as in these conditions, the urine is not fully flushed out and may go back up the urethra

●        Any urinary exam with or without machines can expose you to bacteria that causes UTI

How to treat UTI?

When you suspect you have UTI, you should consult your doctor immediately. There are some home remedies as well as prevention methods that can help you tackle the same:

●        Antibiotics and painkillers prescribed by the doctor to curb pain and rid your body of the infection

●        Heating pad to soothe the pain

●        Drink plenty of fluids especially water to dilute the urine and pass urine more frequently

●        Drinking cranberry juice has also proved to be helpful in some cases

●        Peeing right after having sex can also reduce chances of UTI

●        Limiting the use of feminine products like sprays etc. can also help prevent UTI

●        Wiping from front to back or washing after you poop, can prevent the E.coli bacteria from moving towards the vagina, thus reducing chances of getting UTI

●        Choose clothing like breathable fabrics that do not trap moisture when choosing underwear or pants

●        Switching from diaphragm to other safer forms of birth control can also help

●        Keep the genital area clean and dry to prevent infections

●        Consult your doctor and follow all the precautions during pregnancy to keep away infections and other complications

When to visit a doctor?

If you notice any of the symptoms mentioned above, especially during pregnancy, you should immediately consult your doctor. During this time, your body is undergoing many changes and your overall immunity is compromised. Moreover, during pregnancy, it is not advisable to go for over the counter medication. Thus consulting your doctor is the best bet. If you notice any pain or burning sensation while peeing or have a fever, it’s best to get a urine test done at the doctor’s office. Depending on the severity of the infection, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics or additional tests to treat you.

Key takeaway

UTI or urinary tract infection can be painful and uncomfortable, more so when you’re pregnant. However, it is possible to prevent infections with the tips mentioned above. Ensure that you stay hydrated and keep the genital area clean and dry, to minimize the chances of UTI. It is also easily treatable with antibiotics and other medication. Thus make sure that you consult your doctor when you notice any of the symptoms of UTI.

FAQ

Can a UTI while pregnant hurt the baby?

A UTI by itself only affects the bladder and urethra, which will not hurt your baby. However, if left untreated it can affect your kidney which can lead to complications during pregnancy and childbirth.

How do I get rid of a urinary tract infection while pregnant?

When you have a urinary tract infection while pregnant, it’s best to consult your doctor. Along with a urine test, your doctor may prescribe antibiotics and painkillers that can help treat UTI.

What does a UTI feel like when pregnant?

UTI during pregnancy and otherwise will have all the usual symptoms of the infection. Frequent urge to pee, burning sensation while peeing, fever etc. are the usual symptoms of UTI.

Can a UTI cause miscarriage?

UTI by itself will not cause a miscarriage but it’s essential that you treat it immediately to prevent more complications that can cause miscarriage.

How long can a UTI go untreated?

While some UTIs can go away on their own in a week or so, it’s best to consult your doctor if you suspect you have UTI. As you’re pregnant, this will help curb the spread of the infection, thus ensuring a safer pregnancy for both you and your baby. 

How long it really takes to get pregnant?

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If you’re trying to conceive, chances are that you’re keeping a keen eye on the Prega News kit and the Prega News test result. You might also end up taking the pregnancy test time after time, in the hopes of seeing the two lines on the Prega News test strip. While the Prega News test accuracy ensures that you get instant and reliable results, there may be times you may be disappointed, especially if you just started trying to get pregnant. Conceiving is not always instant as promised in movies and can sometimes take some time. So here’s all you need to know about how long it really takes to get pregnant.

Scientific Data

Getting pregnant is a journey that is different for every couple. However, there have been some attempts at capturing the journey to better organize the data on how long it really takes to get pregnant. Although the results may vary, this scientific data does offer some insight into how long it takes couples to get pregnant. It is also important to remember that it is different for everyone and depends on age, frequency of sex, reproductive health and general health. Some mental or psychological factors like stress and anxiety can also weigh in on how long it would take to conceive. Let’s take a look at some of the data:

●       In the journal, Human Reproduction, a study followed women who were trying to get pregnant. These women were regularly having sex during their fertile windows. A year later, 310 women, out of 346 women, had successfully conceived. They concluded that most couples conceive within six cycles of trying to get pregnant.

●       As per the NHS UK, 84% of women get pregnant within a year of trying. However, this percentage decreases as the woman’s age increases, thus proving the effects of aging on reproductive health.

●       In general, couples with no reproductive health issues and have sex regularly, have a 25 – 30% chance of getting pregnant in each cycle. Over a year, about 85% of women successfully conceive.

Common Public Opinion

While you may hear numerous stories about when people conceived and after how long, there are many opinions that you may come across during this period. From various home tricks and sex positions to help get pregnant more easily to superfoods – people have tried and will advocate plenty of things when it comes to get  pregnant. While many conceive in the first month, sometimes it can take up to 1 – 2 years to actually get pregnant. However, most couples with no reproductive health issues and in the prime age bracket do have a decent chance at getting pregnant within the first few months. Ultimately, it depends on you and your partner’s psychological and physical health. Your best bet would be to see a doctor and get the recommended tests done and questions answered to see if you need additional time. Seeing your doctor can also help you relax and put your mind at ease, as they offer the best help and insight. This is especially important for couples who have been trying to get pregnant for a while.

How to Increase Your Chances?

Before we deep dive into tips on getting pregnant, it’s important to understand how and when the pregnancy happens. We have been told and taught how sex can help a woman get pregnant and popular culture and films have only given us false ideas of getting pregnant at first try. However, when you understand the process, you realize why it may take longer for some and how you can increase your chances of  getting pregnant.

Let’s understand what is “conceiving”: Every month, a woman’s body undergoes hormonal changes which causes the immature egg in the ovary to grow and mature. On an average this takes about two weeks, starting with the woman’s period or menstrual cycle. When mature, this egg is then released from the ovary and it travels through the fallopian tube towards the uterus. If this mature egg is fertilized by a sperm, it will continue towards the uterus and ultimately attach to the uterine lining which will then grow into your foetus. As this egg is only viable for 24 hours, this is known as the best time or fertile period to conceive. Based on this process, there are some conclusions that we can draw which will ultimately help in getting pregnant:

●       Track your menstrual cycle and know more about your periods as this will ultimately help you understand your own unique cycle and thus determine the ovulation period.

●       Use an ovulation tracker app to check for your fertile window – in spite of popular belief, ovulation cycles have been known to be different among women and not as per population calculation methods. This is one of the most important things when it comes to getting pregnant as having sex during the fertile window drastically increases your chances of getting pregnant.

●       Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is of utmost importance – while trying to conceive, couples focus so much on reproductive health that they may end up ignoring overall health. Maintaining an ideal weight, avoiding smoking and alcohol, cutting back on caffeine, avoiding stress and staying active are some of the many ways to stay healthy.

●       Have sex regularly and especially during the fertile window period. Too much or too little sex can also affect your chances of getting pregnant. Having sex every alternate day or regularly can significantly increases chances of pregnancy.

●       Getting a preconception check-up before you start planning is also a good idea as your doctor can prescribe prenatal vitamins and also determine the reproductive health of you and your partner.

FAQ

How to increase chances of conception?
Tracking your menstrual cycle, ovulation dates, having sex regularly and maintaining overall good health significantly increase chances of conceiving. During this time, avoid stress, smoking, drinking and other such things which can impact you negatively.

What are the best days of the cycle of conception?

The best days or the fertile window is up to 5 days before ovulation and is especially effective in the day or two preceding ovulation.

What are the effects of the menstruation cycle on conception?

Your menstrual cycle can help determine the ovulation period, which is considered to be the fertile window of a woman. Having periods regularly and tracking them, can help you or your doctor determine your reproductive health and the best time to have sex for conception. 

The right ways for dads to bond with babies

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Hey there, dads!

We know you have been eagerly waiting to meet your little one, since you brought home Prega News – India’s No. 1 Pregnancy detection kit to get the good news. And thanks to the efficiency of the pregnancy test by Prega News, you got the news in just 5 minutes! The pregnancy test by Prega News also provides very accurate results when all the instructions on the Prega News kit are followed, thus letting you do a little celebratory dance even before you visit the doctor.

 However, now that your little one is home, you want to spend much time with your newborn and bond with them instantly. So maybe you’re wondering, how do dads bond with their newborn? Well, the Prega News Kit doesn’t just deliver you the good news, we also ensure that we stand by you every step of the way. So let’s take a look at different ways that can be used for dad’s bond with a newborn.

 Dad’s Activities

 There are many ways to bond with your little one. Your baby may not be old enough to recognize voices and faces, or even respond to everything, but there are certain ways that you can still have fun with your baby and help deepen the bond. Let’s take a look!

●     Baby wearing: An increasingly popular idea, baby wearing is simply carrying your baby in your lap with the aid of a cloth or accessory. The baby wearing technique enables you to stay close to your little one as you go about your daily chores. The little one can nap or simply enjoy being with you.

●     Skin to skin contact: Another way of staying close to your baby, skin to skin contact is being increasingly recommended to new parents. You simply keep your baby close to your chest and allow for skin to skin contact while both of you are wrapped up in a blanket. This helps strengthen the bond and also promotes healthy growth of babies.

●    Baby massage: This is yet another way to promote skin to skin contact between father and newborn and is great for dad’s bond with newborn. While giving your baby a massage, you not only provide warmth and comfort but also spend more time, which ultimately promotes a healthy bond.

●    Diapering duties: You can give mommy a break and also share some dad and newborn time by taking over diapering duties. With many easy to use diapers available these days, it’s no task at all.

●     Bedtime routine: Your baby is still a newborn and may need a feed at night before falling asleep. However, you can help set a bedtime routine and get involved in it – take over baby soothing duties at night or tuck them in at night for that special time.

Developing Interaction Patterns 

As your baby grows a little older – may be a few weeks old – you can include more activities to help that dad-newborn bond. These activities are also great for developing the interaction patterns as your baby’s responsiveness also increases with time. Here are a few ideas:

●       Talk to baby: Probably the oldest trick in the book but definitely one of the most efficient ones – talking to babies has proven to be very helpful when trying to develop a bond. Your baby may not be able to understand you but they do understand the emotions and they are sure to love it.

●       Read to baby: Did you know that babies also enjoy the voice of reading aloud even when they are in the tummy? So why not read to your baby from the children’s books and enjoy some daddy and baby time?

●      Make faces at baby: When babies are a little older, they can also mimic facial expressions and pick up emotions. So make sure to make plenty of goofy faces at baby.

●      Bathing routine: This is a fun baby and daddy routine that your child is sure to love. Most babies love bath time and nothing like dad joining in with fun water toys and funny voices!

●       Sing to baby: Babies understand the notes in music and respond to them even before they understand words. It could be your favourite song or a nighttime lullaby – find something that both of you enjoy and make for a nice song session with the baby. 

Now that you have all these amazing ideas, which ones are you going to use?

FAQ

What other things to be considered for new fathers?

While the above tips can be really helpful to bond with babies, there is another important thing to consider when you’re a new dad. Remember the time you stood beside your partner as you checked the results on the pregnancy test by Prega News? She’s a new mom too and supporting her in any way you can is always much needed and appreciated. Women can also face postpartum depression so it’s important to stand by her and share this journey as an equal partner.

How can I better manage my work life balance as a father?

Opt for a paternity leave when you can so you can spend more time with the baby. When you resume work, make sure that you come back home at fixed times so as to spend time with the family. Waking up a little early or checking in on your baby at night and spending holidays with the baby are all great ways to balance work and life.

What habits do I need to inculcate the most?

 

While there are no rules about habits to set, ideally you should inculcate and also follow the habits that you want your baby to follow later in life. In the initial stages, having ample playtime, setting routines for mealtimes and naps is a great way to ensure a smooth transition into toddler stage. Also, ensure that you follow healthy eating, no smoking etc. to make sure that you set the right example for your baby.

Things to consider for a pre-baby vacation

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When you miss your period, you know it’s time to take the Prega News pregnancy test to check for the good news. Ensure that you read the instructions on the Prega News kit before taking the Prega News pregnancy test, to get accurate results. When you spot the two pink lines on the Prega News pregnancy test, you know that you’re starting a new chapter. As soon as you enter the second trimester, and all the morning sickness is gone, it’s time to plan something exciting.

With your baby arriving soon, you may want to take a babymoon vacation with your partner to relax. Babymoon vacation is increasingly becoming a popular notion among expecting couples as it gives them some much needed break. It’s also a nice way to reconnect with your partner. So what are some things to consider while taking a pre-baby vacation? Well, the Prega News kit is not just for your result, we also take pride in holding your hand as we guide you on this journey.

Tips to Travel in Pregnancy

There are certain things one has to keep in mind before hopping onto the plane, train or car and taking that babymoon vacation. Your body is undergoing many changes during pregnancy to grow and nourish your baby. Thus, it’s important to check up on some things and keep certain things in mind while planning a vacation.

●  Doctor consultation: It’s always best to run the idea by your doctor to check if it’s okay to travel during this period. Airlines often have restrictions on how far along you can be till you’re allowed to fly. Depending on your choice of place, mode of transport and trimester, your doctor will be able to provide the best recommendations and tips for travel.

●  Comfort factor: When you’re pregnant, being comfortable at all times is an absolute must, so do take into account the facilities of the place you will be visiting.

●  Insurance and health plans: Before you set out, it’s best to keep your health records and insurance up to date. Carry these along with you, to be on the safer side.

●  Hospitals: Check for hospital and maternity care in the area where you will be visiting or staying, to ensure that you will have help at hand if needed. Many hotels also offer doctor-on-call so remember to check it out.

●  Weather: The weather can also be a deciding factor as too much sun, too much rains etc. can be not-so-comfortable for pregnant women. It also poses more threats like sunburn, insects, slippery grounds etc.  

Packing Tips 

Packing the right things is a crucial step when planning a vacation during pregnancy. Not only do you have to ensure the comfort levels at all times but also make sure that you have everything you need, even during emergencies.

●  Travel documents: First and foremost, it’s important to pack in all the documents you would need during the trip. This would include identity cards, tickets, payment documents, reservation copies, health records/documents, insurance and prescriptions. Simply plan ahead and prepare for any unforeseen circumstances as well while packing your documents.

● Medication: Along with your prescribed medications, it is always good to carry some over-the-counter first-aid medicines that may be required on the trip. This could include treatment for indigestion, stomach flu, mild fevers, headaches etc. Always consult your doctor before buying these and remember to carry a prescription for the same.

●  Healthy snacks and water: As a pregnant woman, you can have cravings or get hungry at odd times. Depending on room service at odd hours may not be the best bet, thus it’s a good idea to pack in some travel-friendly and healthy snacks. Staying hydrated during pregnancy is also important so remember to pack your own bottle and fill it up from a water source that is clean and safe.

●  Comfortable clothing: It’s a good idea to pack comfortable clothes and shoes in your travel bag. As a pregnant woman, you would want weather appropriate clothes that do not raise or lower your body temperature. Depending on the weather and activities, you might also want to pack in some swimwear, warm jackets or lounge clothes. Always remember to pack extra intimate wear that you find comfortable.

●  Sleeping aid: Flight and car seats can get uncomfortable as you near the advanced stages of pregnancy. So it’s a good idea to take travel pillows and cushions. Also take your sleeping pillow or white noise machine – anything that helps you sleep better during pregnancy.

How to Choose the Pre-baby Vacation Destination 

Most locations can be a pre-baby vacation destination if you plan out the trip well and include things that would be relaxing. However, to choose the best place, you can keep the following things in mind:

●  Mode of transport: It’s important that the journey is not too strenuous for you so take into account how you will be reaching your pre-baby vacation destination. And always consult a doctor about your travel plans.

●  Medical facilities: When travelling during pregnancy, always make sure that your destination has good hospitals and doctors.

●  Weather: There’s nothing worse than a vacation ruined by humidity, rains or other adverse conditions. Remember to check the weather before booking your babymoon vacation.

●  Relaxing destination: Choose a place that allows for ample rest, relaxation and rejuvenation. It’s good to choose a place that offers a flexible and not hectic itinerary.

Activities to Avoid

As long as you follow some precautions during pregnancy any destination should be a good one for your vacation. However, it’s best to avoid activities that involve sudden and jerky movements, sudden change in directions, and risk of falling or tripping on your bump or back. Some things include saunas, too much sunbathing, horse riding, strenuous hiking, amusement park rides, skiing etc.

FAQ:

 What things to consider while flying in pregnancy?

Always consult your doctor before flying and check with the airlines if they have a limit on the stage of pregnancy which still allows flying. Choose an aisle seat so you can easily access the washrooms, carry water and some snacks, rotate your ankles while sitting and take a walk when it’s safe to do so. Also carry a travel pillow to be more comfortable and consult your doctor for any additional tips or emergency medications.

Should I consult a doctor before travelling during pregnancy? 

Yes, always consult a doctor before travelling and run your plans by them before taking the trip. Not only will they tell you about all the precautions to take but also prescribe the medications you may need. You will also need a write-up from your doctor which states all your medical records and they may be able to help you out with a local doctor. 

How to keep yourself occupied during pregnancy

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When you notice the first signs of pregnancy or miss a period, it’s time to take the pregnancy test. As you reach out for the Prega News kit, you are already hoping for a smile when you see the good news with Prega News result. Ensure that you follow all the instructions on Prega News – India’s no. 1 pregnancy detection kit to get the most accurate Prega News result. And when you see the two pink lines on the Prega News result after successfully taking the pregnancy test, you know it’s a time for celebration.

Pregnancy is a beautiful time in a woman’s life – a stage where you nourish and grow your baby in your womb and watch as the wonders of nature take place. It is a phase to be enjoyed and celebrated. However, when you’re done with all the doctor visits and other essentials, how do you wait till the time you meet your little one? Well, the Prega News kit isn’t just for your pregnancy test – we also understand this beautiful phase and here are some things that you may find useful to keep yourself occupied during this period.

Indoor Activities for Pregnant Women

Depending on the weather, mood and other variables, there are times when you would want some fun and relaxing things to do indoors. You can check these out:

●  Indulge in some me-time: Before you know it, your days and nights will be filled with baby-duties and cuddle times, so enjoy the me-time during your pregnancy. You could try self-care routines like a nice bath, meditation, a hair care routine, enjoying a cup of your favourite tea or just taking a nap – the possibilities are endless.

●  Organize and make space for baby: You know all the unused things that you stacked away for later use but never used? Yes, it’s time to de-clutter, organize and make space for the little one in your home. You can go one step further and even baby-proof your house to keep it safe when the little one starts crawling or walking.

●  Binge-watch favourite shows: It’s time to go back to that big list of things-to-watch and actually watch them – why not take this time to catch up on your favourite shows or watch the movies you have always wanted to?

●  Experiment in the kitchen: You can learn to make all the things you’re craving for and try out those saved recipes on your list – cooking is fun, relaxing and you get to eat delicious food!

Outdoor Activities for Pregnant Women

When the sun’s out or you’re feeling up for it, there are many outdoor activities that you can try out during pregnancy. Take a look!

●  Gardening: Another de-stressing activity that you can enjoy! Some light gardening like an herb garden or simply summer flowers can bring you much joy and help you start a new hobby.

●  Plan a date night: Before the baby comes, you can take the time to enjoy the ‘couple’ days and bond on a date night – this could be the new restaurant, catching a movie or a play – pick things that you enjoy as a couple.

●  Take a walk: Walking is a beneficial exercise for both body and mind – you can take a walk around the block or explore the new park in your neighborhood and maybe even make some new friends!

●  Plan a picnic: If you’re feeling energetic, you can also plan a picnic or organize a potluck lunch in the park with all your friends.

Singular Activities for Pregnant Women

There are times when you would want to enjoy your own company during pregnancy. So here are some ways to do just that:

●  Reading: Whether it’s your favourite book, a thriller novel, an online article or even a blog on parenting – you can always find something that you enjoy!

●  Solving puzzles: Riddles or simple puzzles like jigsaw can really help de-stress and can be a good activity during your alone time.

●  Letters to baby: When you look back on these days, there are so many things you experienced and so many things you wished for your baby – wouldn’t it be nice to write it all down for your baby to read one day?

●  Work on a birth plan: If you’re in your third trimester, this would be an ideal time to come up with a birth plan – you can consult your doctor and your partner and make one that suits everyone!

Group Activities for Pregnant Women

You can also try out some group or small group activities that can greatly help during pregnancy:

●  Decorating your nursery: Whether it’s painting or simply rearranging furniture, you can have a fun time with friends while decorating your nursery.

●  Shopping: A day of shopping for baby and mommy supplies with your girlfriends can be super fun and relaxing.

●  Join a prenatal class: From birthing classes to prenatal yoga – there are many group exercise/knowledge sharing classes for moms-to-be that you can sign up for!

●  Have a baby shower: Nothing like a good, fun baby shower with games and delicious food to bond with all your friends! While you’re at it, you can also throw in a maternity photoshoot to capture the fun side of pregnancy.

Now that we have listed all the amazing ways to stay occupied during pregnancy, tell us in the comments below, which one are you going to try out?

FAQ

What are the different activities for each trimester?

While there are many activities for each trimester, simple exercises like walking, swimming or prenatal yoga are considered safe for all trimesters.

Which self-care product should I choose?

There are many different things to choose from and it depends on your needs – it could be a skin or hair care kit, a sleeping pillow or even comfortable maternity wear!

What should be there in my go-to hospital bag?

 

Apart from personal hygiene products, you should also keep clothes for yourself and your newborn. Your go-to hospital bag should also have all the birth plan, prescribed medications, post-birth essentials, snacks and some other things. 

Precautions to be taken during the second trimester

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Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful times in a woman’s life and we at Prega News are always trying to make this journey as enjoyable and stress-free as possible.

 What is the second trimester?

 Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters:
1. Week 1 – Week 12 is first trimester
2. Week 13 – Week 26 is second trimester
3. Week 27 – end of pregnancy is the third trimester

 In the second trimester, as your baby grows bigger and stronger, you may notice many of the symptoms of the first trimester ebbing away like nausea and fatigue. This is the time many women consider to be the most enjoyable and relaxed duration of pregnancy.

 What are the symptoms of the second trimester?

 This is time your body grows to adjust the growing baby and these are changes that take place:

●        Your uterus grows

●        Your belly grows – this is the time you have the baby bump

●        You can feel the baby move

●        Increase in appetite

●        Dizziness owing to lower blood pressure

●        Stretch marks

●        Difference in colour of skin or patches

●        Swelling of ankles

Precautions during Pregnancy: Second Trimester

During your second trimester, you may notice many symptoms that lead to discomfort or pain. Here are some of the precautions and remedies to treat these second trimester symptoms:

 Growing belly and breasts leading to soreness
As your body grows to nurture the baby, you may experience soreness and pain in your belly and breasts. Well supported bras with wide straps or a sports bra can help ease the pain by providing adequate support. Massaging your belly with natural oils and wearing snug maternity underwear can also help ease some of the discomfort.

Spotting during pregnancy second trimester
Spotting or vaginal discharge in a sticky, clear or white appearance is deemed normal. This is often noticed after sex during pregnancy and is usually harmless. If you notice any smell or other colour, contact your doctor.

Headaches in Pregnancy – second trimester
Headaches can occur throughout pregnancy and usually subside on their own. While the headaches usually stop in the second trimester, you can try ginger tea, a massage and hot/cold compresses for some easy remedies.

Leg cramps during pregnancy
Leg cramps can commonly occur in the second trimester and often after exercises or prolonged standing. Stretching the calf muscles, wearing comfortable shoes, hot compresses, warm baths and drinking plenty of fluids can help ease them. Also ensure that you stay physically active to lessen the cramps.

Cold during pregnancy second trimester

The increase in hormone levels can cause nasal congestion, cold and nosebleeds. Staying hydrated, using a saline solution and also rubbing petroleum jelly around the nose can help ease these symptoms. If it gets more severe, consult your doctor to know the safe medicines you can consume during pregnancy.

Pelvic pain during pregnancy second trimester
The growing belly and body can often lead to pelvic pain in your second trimester. Exercising in water or simply enjoying a warm bath can help you relax and ease the pain. You can also opt for special exercises and pelvic supports to tackle the same and avoid strenuous exercises or lifting weights.

Rash during pregnancy second trimester
The increase in hormones can cause breakouts and rashes on your skin during the second trimester of pregnancy. Natural and safe cleansing products and the right skin care routine can help ease some of these but you can always consult your doctor if they don’t subside in a few days or weeks.

Nausea, stomach cramps, indigestion & heartburn
While most of these subside in the second trimester, some women do experience it throughout pregnancy. Ginger lozenges, proper hydration and following some tips on eating right during pregnancy can help tackle the symptoms.

Braxton Hicks Contractions

Light exercises or sex can often cause mild, irregular contractions in the second trimester. If the contractions get regular or too severe, contact your physician immediately.

Urinary Tract Infections
As your body’s delicate during this time, UTI is a common occurrence among many pregnant women. Avoiding unhygienic places, keeping toilets clean and disinfected can help prevent these. However, if you do experience symptoms like urges to urinate frequently or sharp pain while urinating, it’s best to consult your doctor.

FAQ

What should be avoided during the second trimester?
Strenuous exercise, lifting weights, alcohol, caffeine, recreational drugs, raw fish, unpasteurized dairy products and processed meats should be avoided during the second trimester.

What months are the 2nd trimester?
Month 4 to month 6 or Week 13 – Week 26 is considered to be the second trimester of pregnancy.

How should I sleep during the second trimester?
During the second trimester, sleeping on your side and usually the left side is considered comfortable and ideal for both mother and baby. However, sleeping positions during pregnancy can vary for women so find one that feels right to you.

Is it normal to have diarrhea in the 2nd trimester?
Yes, diarrhea during pregnancy is quite common and caused by changes in the body. This can be tackled with a proper diet and careful monitoring.

What to eat during the second trimester of pregnancy?

During your second trimester, include every food group in your diet – protein, vitamins, minerals and other essential nutrients. Eating greens, whole foods, lean meat and pulses is beneficial at this stage and can ensure a healthy pregnancy.

How to recognize the signs of labour

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Ever since you brought home thePrega News Kit, you have been eagerly waiting to meet your little one. Remember the butterflies in your tummy, when you carefully read all the instructions on the Prega News kit and took the pregnancy test by Prega News? And thanks to the accuracy of the pregnancy test by Prega News, you celebrated the good news in just 5 minutes!

 However, now that the day of the pregnancy test by Prega News is way behind, and you are weeks or days away from meeting your little one, there is another important thing that may be running through your mind – labour. Well the pregnancy test by Prega News is not the only thing we do! The Prega News kit delivers your good news and also stands with you along the way with other things that you might need – in this case recognizing the signs of labour. Everyone talks about the moment of water breaking and the baby’s head pressing on bowels, which ultimately result in labour pain. But did you know that there can be false alarms too? Yes,  pain or a similar feeling can often be felt in the later stages of pregnancy, which need not necessarily be a sign of labour. Read on to know more!

 Discerning Between Fake and Actual Signs of Labour

 In the last two to four weeks before your delivery, you may experience what is known as ‘false labour’. These are also contractions (also known as Braxton Hicks contractions) but they do not mean you need to rush to the emergency room. Let’s find out more about telling the difference between fake and actual signs of labour:

 What are Braxton Hicks contractions?

Braxton Hicks contractions which one can feel much like labour pain and can occur during the second trimester but usually take place in the third trimester. They can be uncomfortable more than painful, and may feel like menstrual cramps. It is a way your body prepares for labour by thinning and softening the cervix. They can vary in intensity, can taper off and usually go away with a change in position or when you drink water. These are also sometimes triggered when the mother is very active or after sex. Here’s how you can tell them apart from real contractions:

       ●        Contractions: In false labour, contractions are irregular and don’t get closer together.       

●        Origin: Real contractions start in the back and progress towards the front whereas false contractions are usually felt in the front.

●        Intensity: False signs are usually less intense and taper off but real contractions get stronger with time.

●        Movement: False contractions may subside with a change in position or walking whereas these have no effect on real contractions.

 The Expected Timeline of Labour

 The expected timeline of labour depends on each stage of the labour process: 

●        Early labour: In this stage of mild, irregular contractions, you can also spot clear or pink discharge. This can last from a few hours to a few days – first time moms usually take a few days to go through this stage.

●        Active labour: In this stage, your cervix dilates further, the water breaks and you may experience nausea and cramping. This generally lasts from four to eight hours.

●        Birth of your child: In this second stage of active labour, you actually deliver your baby. For first time moms and women who have taken an epidural, this can last longer. It usually lasts from a few minutes to a few hours.

●        Delivering the placenta: After the birth of your baby, you will need to push one last time to deliver the placenta – this can take anywhere between five to thirty minutes, and sometimes up to an hour.  

Active Signs of Labour 

Here are some active signs of labour that you can observe during active labour:

●        Water breaking: Fluid leakage or water breaking is one sign that indicates you are going into labour. This may be a fluid from the amniotic sac or can sometimes be mucus/blood.

●        Baby’s head pressing on bowels: This manifests as overall discomfort, accompanied by a feeling of sickness in the stomach and rectal pressure with/without the urge to push. The baby’s head pressing on bowels may also cause aches and nausea.

●        Fatigue: With so many changes and your body preparing for birth, you will feel tired and exhausted.

●        Urge to push: You may feel an urge to push and this is an active sign of labour.

●        Regular contractions: In this stage, you will be able to time your contractions – they will last longer and come at regular intervals.

●        Dilated cervix: Your body is preparing for birth and with increased contractions, there will be a dilation in your cervix.

●        Increased spotting or mucus: As you advance towards active labour, you may notice more blood spots or mucus.

During this stage, it’s best to get ready for birth – whether you’re having a home birth or hospital birth. Even when you’re experiencing false contractions, you should call your doctor and prepare to go to the hospital if you feel too uncomfortable or sick.

FAQ:

When and for how long should I push?

When you’re in the active stage of labour and your cervix is adequately dilated, your doctor will ask you to push. While there is no fixed rule on pushing, you should do it as and when you’re ready. If you’re too exhausted, your doctor will recommend a short rest before you’re ready to push again.

Will I need an episiotomy?

Your doctor would recommend an episiotomy if your baby needs to be delivered fast, the shoulders are stuck behind the cervix or there’s an abnormal heart rate of the baby.

What is the usual lactation period?

Doctors recommend exclusive breastfeeding from 6 months up to a year. The actual period will depend on you and your baby’s experience and the doctor’s suggestion. 

Pelvic pain during pregnancy

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When you saw the two pink lines on the Prega News test kit, it was truly a memorable moment – knowing that in 9 months, you would get to meet your little one. However, before the D-day arrives, there are many body changes during pregnancy that you will undergo. While some are obvious and expected, others may catch you by surprise. While all is worth it when you see your little one, there may be times when some pregnancy complications or conditions may make the journey not-so-easy for you. However, it’s good to know that there is a solution for everything and just understanding the symptoms and causes can help you prepare better for all the things to come. One of them may be pelvic girdle pain or PGP – let’s understand what is PGP and then delve deeper.

PGP or pelvic girdle pain is a generic term used for the pelvic pain experienced by many pregnant women. It also includes aches and pain in the pubic area. Overall, it includes any kind of pain or discomfort from the lower back to the thighs – either front or back. PGP can start during any time of the pregnancy or even after delivery. From a mild discomfort to severe aches – the pain too varies among women. Let’s understand the symptoms and causes better to cope when the pain arises.

Symptoms of PGP

While pelvic girdle pain is experienced in the lower regions, there are some parts that are more affected than the others. These symptoms may also become more prominent during certain activities. Let’s take a look at the symptoms of PGP: 

●        Pain in the pubic bone area at the front, at level with your hips, in the centre.

●        Pain spreading to the thighs.

●        Pain in the lower back – either one side or both.

●        Pain in the area that joins your vagina and anus.

●        Pain while changing clothes as it causes weight shift to one leg.

●        Pain while turning sides in bed.

●        Pain while getting in or out of seats, especially a car.  

What causes pelvic pain during pregnancy?

While the PGP is experienced differently by different women, some causes of PGP may be previous injuries in the lower back, previous pelvic girdle or joint pain, and even poor muscle function in the lower back or pelvic region. It can also occur more frequently in women who have a physically demanding job, have experienced PGP in previous pregnancies, poor posture, Pelvic bone diseases such as arthritis or sacroiliitis, carrying multiple babies or are overweight.

How to cope with the pain?

Pelvic girdle pain can cause severe discomfort to some women and thus hamper their daily activities. However, there are some ways to cope with the same:

●        Only do the activities that you are comfortable doing – avoid chores or errands that are physically more demanding or require you to stand for too long.

●        Avoid shifting your weight on one leg – choose to sit and dress etc. to follow this.

●        Avoid climbing stairs – try taking everything you need at one go so that you are not needed to make multiple trips.

●        Avoid carrying too much weight in one hand.

●        Find comfortable sleeping positions and use maternity or bolster pillows to keep between your legs.

●        Adopt good posture – Awareness of proper posture is vital to ensure uniform weight distribution across the pelvis. This results in less strain on the supporting ligaments and the muscles.

●        Avoid crossing legs, pushing heavy weights, sitting on the floor, bending or twisting etc.  

Exercises to do while pregnant

 As PGP can cause major discomfort in women, you can seek a professional’s help to manage the pain. Along with safe painkillers or ointments, your doctor may refer you to a physiotherapist or childbirth expert to learn some exercises to help ease the pain and make daily life a little more manageable. While the exercises will be tailored to your pain points and other factors like stage of pregnancy, weight, comfort etc. these will generally include some of the following:

●        Pelvic support belt that you can wear during the day.

●        Exercises in water that help with mobility.

●        Exercises that help strengthen the pelvic floor, back and hips muscles etc.

●        Manual movements that help make the pelvic and hip joints move more easily.

 Labour and childbirth with PGP

Women with PGP are often able to deliver their babies normally. With the right birthing partners and assistance, it is possible to deliver your baby naturally. It’s important to keep these things in mind, before going into labour:

●        Inform your doctors, birthing partner or midwife about having PGP.

●        Consult a birthing coach before your due date to discuss comfortable labour positions.

●        Find out your comfort range when moving your legs and inform your doctor/midwife about the same.

●        Have a birth plan in place and ask if you can deliver sideways, as this position can sometimes be helpful.

Key takeaway 

While PGP can cause severe to mild discomfort and may seem to disrupt your daily life, with the right aid and guidance, you can have it under control and even deliver your baby naturally. Avoiding movements that cause discomfort and doing exercises that help improve the strength and ease the pain along with medications, can help you manage your daily activities with almost no difficulty.  

FAQ

Can PGP affect labour?

Most women with PGP can safely have a vaginal birth with the assistance of their birthing partner and doctor or midwife. You can talk to birthing coaches and doctors beforehand to inform them about the condition and find positions for labour that are comfortable.

Is walking well for pelvic girdle pain?

A gradual or slow paced walking can help you stay active and keep your pelvic muscles and joints more mobile. However, if it causes more discomfort, it is best to discontinue and consult a doctor.  

How early can pelvic girdle pain start?

Pelvic girdle pain can start at any time of the pregnancy but the symptoms usually get more prominent as the weight increases, that is towards the advanced stages.

Does pelvic girdle pain go away?

 The pelvic girdle pain usually goes away after you deliver your baby – this can take anywhere between 2-6 weeks. If it takes longer, it’s best to consult your doctor.

How should I sleep with PGP?

When trying to sleep with PGP, find positions that keep your legs together or place pillows between your legs while sleeping on the side. When turning, ensure that both legs are together. If you’re still unable to sleep, consult your doctor for help. 

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