A miscarriage can affect you in profound and lasting ways. It can affect your relationship with your partner, family, close friends and even yourself. During this period, you need a lot of support to move on with your life and begin the physical and emotional healing process. The most important thing that can ease your pain after an early miscarriage is the affection and understanding of those around you.
When you and your loved ones are prepared for the possible emotional and relational complexities that may follow a miscarriage, then you are better prepared to handle the pain and move closer to holistic recovery in all aspects.
Sleep.
Sleep is a powerful curative force, so make sure you get plenty of it. Sleep as much as possible in the first week, especially in the first 24 hours. Drinking warm milk or doing some light stretching before bed may help you fall asleep.
Communicate.
When you’re ready, talk to someone you trust about how you’re feeling and what you need. This might be your partner, friend, family member or a professional.
Medication.
Abdominal cramping and pain are frequent – especially in the first several days. Before using any pain medication, it’s best to talk to your doctor. Seek medical assistance if the pain worsens over time.
Hygiene.
Practice good hygiene by showering regularly throughout the first week to keep infections at bay. It will help if you use pads instead of tampons because your period won’t end for another week. The second week of possible spotting is possible after the first
Be Kind to Yourself.
Whatever the time frame, a loss is a loss. Be patient, and understand that this is a method. It’s not easy to bring up, and you may feel like you have no idea what to do. Treat yourself gently and think about what you need right now. Feel good by indulging in activities you enjoy, such as cooking your favorite meals or getting a massage.
Drop the Shame.
Most women who have a miscarriage also feel guilty and blame themselves for the tragedy. Feeling guilty is detrimental to one’s sense of self-worth. Guilt is a common emotion, but you should try to put it behind you.
Seek Professional Help.
Consulting a therapist or a grief counselor can assist you in developing strategies for dealing with the triggers and the emotions brought on by your loss.
Those who have experienced a miscarriage should know their emotions will change over time. Nobody can predict how long it will take to process their feelings, so it’s best not to set a target date for when you should “feel better.” Don’t rush things, and don’t be hard on yourself.
Prepare for the Future.
After experiencing a miscarriage, many women are eager to get pregnant again as soon as possible. If that is what you want, have a strategy in place. Discuss your options with your doctor, including when you can start trying again and how you will proceed. This may give you renewed faith in the future and a feeling of closure.
Keep Your Partner Close.
It’s normal to isolate yourself during times of sadness, even from your partner. However, experts warn that this can make it more difficult to heal from a miscarriage. Instead, open up to your partner and share what’s on your mind. Plans for the future should be discussed, and it should be recognized that the mother is not the only one affected by the loss. Fathers grieve too but in a different way and may not express it openly. It is best to share grief and use the opportunity to connect better with one another.
FAQs:
Why do some pregnancies end in miscarriage?
Half of all miscarriages in the first trimester (up to 13 weeks) are due to chromosomal abnormalities. Chromosomes are tiny structures inside the cells of your body that carry your genes. All a person’s physical characteristics are predetermined at birth by their genes. This includes sex, eye, hair colour, and even blood type.
After a miscarriage, what should one do and not do?
●Many women experience severe headaches following a miscarriage; trying a hot or cold compress may help alleviate these symptoms. A hot or cold compress applied to the head can help relieve pain. You’ll feel better immediately after using a hot or cold compress.
●Check your temperature daily for the first five days following a miscarriage. Having a temperature above 99.7 degrees indicates an infection. Therefore, it’s essential to see a doctor if it persists.
●Wait until you have had at least one menstrual cycle before trying to conceive.
A miscarriage can be traumatic for parents to be and time can be the only healing factor to overcome the grief and move on with life.
As a part of your antenatal care, you have to go for several check-ups, pregnancy tests, and ultrasound scans during pregnancy. Other pregnancy tests will be put forward if you or your baby have a higher risk of health problems or are experiencing any health issues during the pregnancy. You don’t have to do every suggested test unless mentioned by your treating Doctor to know more about your health condition.
Many health problems can be identified before the delivery of your baby, but few of them still remain elusive. There are 2 main types of tests suggested by doctors during antenatal care:
• Screening tests will detect and let you know if any health-related risk factor is associated with your baby or not, they are simple and can indicate need of any further confirmatory tests.
• Diagnostic tests which detect whether your baby has any health problem, with a much higher level of reliability.
Here we highlighted the pregnancy check-ups, tests, and scans you would usually be suggested if you have an uncomplicated pregnancy:
First visit
• Test to confirm that you are pregnant
• After confirmation the doctor will calculate the number of weeks of your pregnancy and arrive at your due date. Your doctor will suggest you an ultrasound scan if the due date is not vivid.
• Blood pressure, height, and weight
• Medical and family history.
• A blood test, which includes testing and checking your blood group and test and detecting the risk factor for anaemia, rubella immunity, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, syphilis, chlamydia, and HIV.
• Urine test, to detect if you have a bladder or urinary tract infection
• Screening to check any Down syndrome symptoms.
• Cervical screening to recognize any human papillomavirus (HPV) and/or any signs of cervical cancer
As part of your pregnancy check-up and tests, you should inform and discuss with your doctor:
• Which medications you can take during pregnancy
• Whether you can smoke or drink alcohol during pregnancy.
• Whether you would prefer influenza (flu) vaccination or not.
• Which vitamin and mineral supplements you can take or should avoid during the pregnancy phase.
• Whether Antenatal care options are available to you during the pregnancy phase.
19-20 weeks
• Measuring blood pressure
• Measuring your tummy (abdominal palpation) to check your baby’s growth and development.
• Checking your health and detecting any health issue
• Ultrasound scan to get information about your baby’s physical development, growth, and any complications related to your pregnancy.
22 weeks
• Measuring your blood pressure
• Measuring your tummy (abdominal palpation) to check your baby’s growth and development.
• Checking your health and detecting any health issues and risk factors associated with it.
26-27 weeks
• Measuring your blood pressure
• Measuring your tummy (abdominal palpation) to check your baby’s growth and development.
• Checking your health and detecting any health issues and risk factors associated with it.
• Checking blood glucose level tolerance test for diabetes
28 weeks
• Measuring your blood pressure.
• Measuring your tummy (abdominal palpation) to check the baby’s growth and development.
• Checking your health and detecting any health issues and risk factors associated with it.
• Checking your baby’s heartbeat and movements.
• Discuss your birth plan with your doctor and how to implement it for the healthy growth of the fetus.
• Blood test to check for anaemia and blood platelet count.
• If your blood type is Rh-negative, anti-D immunoglobulin injection will be given.
• Pertussis (whooping cough) vaccination will be given.
• Urine test, if you have any symptoms or signs of urinary tract infection or high blood pressure
32 weeks
• Measuring blood pressure
• Measuring your tummy (abdominal palpation) to check your baby’s growth and development.
• Checking how your health is and if you have any health issues or problems
• Checking your baby’s heartbeat and body movements
• Urine test to detect any signs of urinary tract infection or blood pressure level.
34-36 weeks
• Measuring blood pressure
• Measuring your tummy (abdominal palpation) to check your baby’s growth and development.
• Checking how your health is and if you have any health problems
• Checking your baby’s heartbeat and movements
•Urine test, if you have signs of urinary tract infection or raised blood pressure
• Vaginal swab for detecting Group B streptococcus (GBS)
• If your blood type is Rh-negative, a second anti-D immunoglobulin injection will be given.
• Assessing presentation to identify which way up your baby is and how far down the baby’s head has moved into your pelvis.
38-39 weeks
• Measuring blood pressure
•Measuring your tummy (abdominal palpation) to check your baby’s growth and development.
• Checking how your health is and if you have any health problems
• Checking your baby’s heartbeat and movements
• Urine test, to detect any signs of urinary tract infection or raised blood pressure
• Assessing presentation and station to check how far down the baby’s head has moved into your pelvis.
40-41 weeks
• Measuring blood pressure
• Measuring your tummy (abdominal palpation) to check your baby’s growth and development.
• Checking how your health is and if you have any health problems
• Detecting your baby’s heartbeat and movements
• Urine test, to detect any signs of urinary tract infection or raised blood pressure
• Assessing presentation and station
• Checking your baby’s heartbeat and the amount of fluid around your baby.
Things to know about ultrasound scans.
Ultrasound is a scan that utilizes high-frequency sound waves to study and discover internal body structures. The sound waves are discharged from a vibrating crystal in a handheld scanner. The reflected sound waves or ‘echoes’ are then interpreted into a grainy, two-dimensional or sometimes three-dimensional image reflected on a monitor.
Your doctor usually prefers an ultrasound scan during pregnancy to detect the process of a baby’s growth and body function and to check any abnormalities such as Down syndrome. Since the ultrasound scan can’t give vivid images, to convey exact information about suspected abnormalities so you need to undergo further tests for confirmation. The ultrasound scan can’t give 100 percent precise data but the advantages of the test are that it’s antenatal, painless, and safe for both mother and fetus.
Key takeaway
It is important to have trust in your doctor and follow all the instructions carefully. Never miss a checkup and get all the required tests done. It is good to monitor the baby’s development carefully so that you have a safe and stress-free pregnancy.
FAQ
1. What is the normal schedule for an ultrasound during pregnancy?
It is recommended by a doctor to have your first pregnancy ultrasound scan between 6 to 9 weeks. Since the ultrasound scan can’t give vivid images, to convey exact information about suspected abnormalities so you need to undergo further tests for confirmation.
2. How many tests do you have during pregnancy?
There are 2 main types of tests suggested by doctors during pregnancy:
•Screening tests will detect and let you know if any health-related risk factor is associated with your baby or not, but this test can convey to you the exact information.
•Diagnostic tests which detect whether your baby has any health problem, with a much higher level of reliability.
3. Can too many ultrasounds harm the baby?
The ultrasound scan can’t give 100 percent precise data but the advantages of the test are that it’s antenatal, painless, and safe for both mother and fetus. Your doctor usually prefers an ultrasound scan during pregnancy to detect the process of a baby’s growth and body function and to check for any abnormalities.
Pregnancy is an exhilarating time, but there are a lot of questions and worries. You will experience a lot of changes in your body and astonishing symptoms can come out of nowhere, and for first-time parents-to-be, it’s a completely new journey. Getting adapted for the nine months ahead is crucial for both mental and physical health.
Reading a book while pregnant can help you to learn more about your body and the experience and changes you are going to feel ahead. It’s important to keep in mind that whichever book you prefer, it should have clinically proven information from highly trusted sources.
Benefits of Reading to Your Unborn Baby
While considering the things to read to a baby, it is also important to figure out how your activities are going to perk the baby inside the womb. Your daily activities, right from eating to speaking to exercising, have a significant effect on the baby’s physical and mental growth. The hearing sensation is so strong that most babies can begin a harmony for the native language over any other, even without understanding it completely.
• Pregnancy is a stressful and agitated time for the mother and also for the baby. The baby experiences an array of emotions and can feel deluged at times. Reading books while pregnant can make you calm down, and your soothing voice can also control the heartbeat of your fearful baby inside the womb and help him or her to relax.
• A baby’s bond with his mother develops right from the time he is in the womb. Skin-to-skin contact has its impact and makes the bond even stronger once the baby is born. However, the bond is truly shaped when the mother indulges herself in various day-to-day activities when the baby is still inside her womb. Being constantly conscious of the mother’s voice helps the baby develop trust and get acquainted with the mother, that’s the reason why most of the babies stop crying after they recognize the mother’s voice. Reading the book while pregnant can make the baby acknowledge his mother’s voice pretty well, too. Reading it again and again once the baby is out can also build up the bond yet again. And, this doesn’t apply to the mother only. If the partner reads a story to the child, the baby will recognise that voice too.
•As your baby develops in your womb, his brain development process is still in progress, and the neural connections form constantly. Listening to the mother’s voice inside the womb or reading books while pregnant can strengthen and build up those connections. And, baby can easily acknowledge his mother’s voice when he listens to them again after birth. Repetition of voice helps to retain anything permanently in memory, boost memory development and enhance concentration in babies.
When Can You Start Reading books to Your Unborn Baby?
Reading does not need a perfect time, to begin with. However, if you are specific about selecting books to read to your child, it is mandatory to know the correct time to get started. The initial months for the baby’s development are completely focused on getting used to the womb and adjusting to the surroundings. Over time, as the baby grows, he begins to acknowledge the hearing sensation from outside. This makes it pretty easier for him to listen to the music being hummed and the words you speak.
Therefore, as you are closer to the completion of 23 weeks of your pregnancy, which is also called as second trimester, your baby will start acknowledging your voice and any other actions rapidly. This means your baby’s cognitive development is happening, and you can boost it by listening to music and reading books that impact his memory growth during pregnancy.
What stories you should read to a Baby in the Womb?
If you are a passionate reader, you will be fond of reading all kinds of books under the sun; from all types of romantic novels to murder mysteries to science fiction. But, you can’t prefer all types of books to read to your baby, whether he is in the womb or outside it. If you are striving hard to figure out what kind of books would best suit your baby, take a simple look in the children’s or kids’ section of any bookstore and purchase books that you want your baby to hear. You can also create a baby’s library by collecting books and reading to him.
Books that are replete with small poems, pointing to the rhyme scheme, can help develop his tendency to understand sounds and word formations. It’s better to opt for reading fantasy stories that can cultivate his imagination.
Once you get to know what to read for your baby in the womb, don’t stop there. It’s better to add the reading activity with listening to music or humming some music of your own that benefits your baby’s cognitive development.
This is one of the best books you should read when you are pregnant and perhaps the title is the one that comes to your mind and for a good reason. It highlights everything from pre-pregnancy to post-pregnancy. It also focuses on labour and delivery pain, the first six months of postpartum sickness, pregnancy loss, and a nutritious diet.
2. Pregnancy, Childbirth, and the Newborn: The Complete Guide
This book focuses on the beginning of pregnancy discussing choices, common body changes and concerns, major complications during the pregnancy phase, working out, and in taking nutrition. It also focuses on labour and childbirth, pain relief medications, and uses.
3. HypnoBirthing
This is another good book to read while you are pregnant. Every pregnant woman should consider it, even if she is not planning on having a natural birth. There is a lot of anxiety surrounding childbirth, so this book helps to prepare you for childbirth physically, emotionally, and spiritually.
4. The Mindful Mother
This is a highly recommended book for all pregnant women to read. This book focuses on being a knowledgeable friend and helps you understand what being a mom means. This book highlights all the joy and challenges of becoming a mother.
5. We’re pregnant
This book is especially recommended for first-time dads. Reading this book can give you immense comfort and prepare you to overcome the challenges of becoming a dad. This book focuses on the tools you need to be a supportive partner during and after pregnancy.
FAQ
1. What should I read during pregnancy?
Books that are replete with small poems, pointing to the rhyme scheme, can help and develop his tendency to understand sounds and word formations. It’s better to opt for reading fantasy stories that can cultivate his imagination.
2. When should you start reading to your baby in the womb?
When you are closer to the completion of 23 weeks of your pregnancy, which is also called as second trimester, your baby will start acknowledging your voice and any other actions rapidly. This means your baby’s cognitive development is developing, and you can boost it by listening to music and reading books that impact his memory growth during pregnancy.
What is the best part of a woman’s life? Indeed, it is when she welcomes her little one into this world. And, this amazing news of your pregnancy gets confirmed when you use the Prega News pregnancy kit. Prega News believes every woman deserves the good news! That’s why the pregnancy kit gives a green signal to your happiness and gives you surety that soon your little one will be in your arms. The kit gives a pleasant surprise to Dad that soon the baby is arriving.
So, all the would-be Mothers, who are in their first trimester, how are you feeling? You must be enjoying this period. Yes, we know pregnancy comes with difficulties, but here we have tips for your morning sickness. These tips will make your motherhood journey easy and beautiful.
What is morning sickness? When does it start?
During the first trimester of pregnancy, around two/third or half of all pregnant women face the problem of morning sickness. The main symptom is vomiting and nausea. Hence as its name suggests, morning sickness during pregnancy gets worse early in the day or sometimes at night. But, in most cases, this problem does not cause harm to the mother and baby. But in case, women are facing dehydration problems or weight loss during their first trimester, they need medical help. In most women morning sickness starts from the 4th week of pregnancy and ends in the 12th or 14th week.
Some women feel that morning sickness can threaten their unborn’s life, because it causes retching and vomiting. It puts a strain on the abdominal muscles and leads to soreness and aching. Don’t worry ladies, your fetus is perfectly fine.
Morning sickness symptoms
Symptoms of morning sickness in early pregnancy include nausea, vomiting, loss of appetite, and psychological effects, like anxiety and depression. In the first-trimester unrelenting morning sickness can affect your health, working conditions, and socializing. Even, if you are thinking negatively, morning sickness will affect you worse.
Causes of Morning sickness
Ladies, you are super strong, but you might not know the real reason for your morning sickness. Here we list out some causes:
The real cause of morning sickness is still not clear. In all probabilities,it may be caused due to the rise in pregnancy hormones like, estrogen or (Human chorionic gonadotropin (HCG). Or it can be caused due to low-sugar levels. Other causes are: overtiring, eating certain foods, stress, sensitivity to motion, etc. Stress is the main reason for morning sickness. If you are taking undue stress due to your work, or any other reason, it will give you morning sickness in your first trimester.
Morning sickness remedies:
Here are some effective remedies
●Eat sweet biscuits early in the morning, before you get out of your bed.
●Don’t intake any drugs without taking a prescription from your doctor. During pregnancy, you must intake medicines prescribed by your doctor and avoid self medication.
●Try to take small meals after regular intervals. An empty stomach can cause vomiting and nausea.
●Drink more fluids, like diluted fruit juice, lemonade, ginger tea, cordial,clear soup, etc. If you cannot take any of these liquids, try to suck ice cubes.
●Wear loose clothes that make your abdomen relax.
●You must take proper rest.
●Try to take vitamin B6 supplements but not more than 200 mg per day (Check with your doctor)
●You must take your doctor’s advice. And, try to apply acupuncture and acupressure on the wrist.
Food to cure morning sickness:
There are some food options available that can cure morning sickness:
How long does morning sickness last in the first trimester?
Women in their first-trimester experience nausea and vomiting, during the morning and sometimes at night time, this is called morning sickness. And the problem starts when you are 9 weeks or fewer weeks pregnant. The morning sickness almost lasts up to 14 weeks of pregnancy. But in some cases, it lasts for more weeks or even months.
What fruit is good for morning sickness?
You must add some delicious and healthy fruits to your diet like pears, bananas, citrus fruit, and cold apple sauce. Carbohydrates are true buddies at the time of morning sickness. You can have fruit potassium and baked potatoes. So, if you have not added fruits to your diet, you must add them and get rid of morning sickness.
What to eat after vomiting during pregnancy at night?
After vomiting, the stomach gets empty during pregnancy at night. The best diet is “BRAT” (Bananas, rice, applesauce, toast, and tea). The BRAT diet is good to have at night as it contains low fats and is easy to digest. You must take more and more proteins, like snacks, such as seeds, beans, nuts, dairy, nut butter, etc. Stay hydrated during the night by intaking fluids, water, etc. Undoubtedly, BRAT is known to be the best diet for pregnant ladies.
What drinks are good for morning sickness?
Dehydration causes lots of problems! If you are pregnant and facing morning sickness, then you must take lots of fluids. You can have lots of water, ginger ale and electrolyte drinks. Ginger ale is not a perfect option for hydration as water or other sports drinks.But still, Ginger ale is counted as a fluid that you can intake as it can settle your stomach with ginger and carbonation. We recommend you take 8 servings of fluids per day. The more liquids you will take, the more energetic you will feel and can do your work easily.
Final Healthy Tips
Yes, it’s tough during the first trimester! Some women feel queasy and some feel sick enough to stay in bed. This is morning sickness. But yes, the above tips will assure you that you are not alone, Prega News is there in your motherhood journey. You must take lots and lots of fluid and the right diet during your 9 months. Yes, we know it’s not easy to face morning sickness during pregnancy, but with a few precautions and home remedies, you can ease your life. So, Mothers to be, it’s to enjoy this blessed period of your life by following the above tips.
What is happiness for a parent? Happiness is when you see your little one intaking solid food. Right? It is the dream of every parent to see their little pumpkins enjoying different delicious solid food. Are you one of such parents? Prega News helps you out in knowing some important facts about when you should start giving solid food to your baby so that the first bite of your baby becomes special. Introducing nutritious wholesome food to your baby helps to develop their taste buds as they experience different tastes and enjoy the texture of the food. Over time, they learn to distinguish between different types of food and develop their own likes and dislikes.
As parents, it is your responsibility to ensure that you feed them responsibly and not introduce them to junk food and sugary drinks which may spoil their teeth and health in the long run.
Prega News is your companion in your parenthood journey and offers you valuable information about “How to feed solid food to the baby? “ In this blog we have covered all the necessary details for new parents.
What foods should we introduce to the child?
Firstly, let your baby try a single food item at a time. This helps you to notice which food causes problems for your baby. Give them every food item for 3-5 days and notice what they like the most. Introducing semi-solid or solid food to your baby is totally an exciting milestone. As an infant’s parent, you would agree with this. When the baby turns 6 months, you can start giving them solid food in the right quantity. Some of the foods which you can give to your babies are Baby cereal (like barley, rice, oatmeal), Banana, Avocado, Sweet potato, Apples, Pears, Green beans, and Butternut squash, these are some solid foods. When you mash the fruits, vegetables, and cereals it becomes Semi-solid food for babies. Surely, the baby will enjoy the delicious taste and they will get good nutrition.
At what age should we start solid foods?
The best age to begin solid food for a baby is 6 months. At 6 months, your baby can digest some solid foods. Around that time, you can start introducing boiled lentil (preferably Moong Dal) and rice along with mashed veggies. 6 months is a perfect time to introduce solid foods to your baby. At this time, the baby will start adopting a new taste and will enjoy the food.
How to feed them?
Babies love to eat mashed or pureed food, as it gets swallowed easily. You must cook the food until it gets soft for the baby to eat. Mash the food with a fork. Puree or mash fruits, vegetables, and other foods till they become smooth. Start feeding one or two spoons, then increase the quantity.
How to prepare food?
You must be very careful when it comes to preparing food for your baby. Ensure that the containers are clean and the hands are well-washed before preparing baby food. Baby tummies are extra sensitive and any error could lead to an infection.
Here are some tips for food preparation:
●You must cook the food until it gets soft for the baby to eat. Mash the food with a fork.
●Puree or mash fruits, vegetables, and other foods till they become smooth.
●Hard vegetables and fruit like carrots, apples, are required to be cooked so that they can be easily pureed or mashed.
●You must remove hard pits and seeds from the fruit and cut them into smaller pieces.
The above are the best “First solid foods to feed baby”
When can babies drink water?
If your baby’s age is less than 6 months, then you must give them infant formula or breastmilk to drink. If your baby is 6 months, then you can give them a small amount of water to drink a couple of times a day. Don’t stop the breast milk feed. You can continue at least till the baby is 12 months old.
What changes can we expect after the baby starts solids?
As a parent, you will notice some changes in your little pumpkins, when they start intaking solid food:
●You might meet an unimpressed face
●Changes in Baby’s mood
●Poo sensations
●Breastfeeds may start dropping off
●It is possible that your baby will have sleep issues
●Gagging happens
●Your baby may have a unique food choice
(FAQ)
What is the first solid food a baby should eat?
You must be thinking “When to start solid food for babies” Right? So, If your baby is 6 months old, you can introduce solid food to them in any order. However, it is best to start with iron-fortified cereals, beans, pureed meats, and poultry. These are some recommended solid foods. If your baby is breastfed, you must provide a single food item at a time, as breast milk is full of nutrients.
What vegetables should a baby eat first?
With a smooth consistency and sweet taste, mashed carrots are loved by 4-6 month old babies. Apart from that, Acorn, Butternut squash, Sweet potato, Avocado Puree, Pear Puree, Banana Puree, and Green Pea Puree can be introduced first.
Is banana a good first food for a baby?
Bananas are the perfect first food to introduce to little ones. It is easy to digest, mushy, soft, and full of minerals and vitamins. You can easily add bananas with cereal and give them to your munchkin. The baby will enjoy the naturally sweet taste of bananas.
When can I give my baby water?
If your baby’s age is less than 6 months, then you must give them infant formula or breastmilk to drink. If your baby is 6 months, then you can give them a small amount of water to drink, if needed along with formula feed or breastmilk.
How many times a day should I feed solids to my 6 month old?
What you can do is – start introducing solid foods to your baby when they turn 6 months of age (not before 4 months). At first, your baby will take small amounts of solid foods. You must give them solids once a day, once they start liking it, give them twice or thrice a day. When your little one turns 8 or 9 months, give them solids as breakfast, lunch, and dinner.
Final Tips for Parents
It’s quite challenging to feed your little ones! Babies have their mood, sometimes they love to eat, sometimes they don’t intake anything. As a parent, you must have good knowledge about what, when, and how you must feed your baby. Create a 6-month-old baby feeding schedule for solid food and follow it.Babies are the most beautiful blessing of God! Right? Let your little blessing enjoy their taste with the right food! What else does a parent wish for? Feed your babies right and they will grow up hale and healthy with good physical and mental development.
Make feed time a delight and enjoy your munchkin’s growth phase!
After childbirth, a woman’s body undergoes a lot of complex emotions, especially in terms of hormonal imbalance. Since it triggers a lot of emotions during these times it is common to feel anxious and fearful. Sometimes, the women may even slip into depression, also known as postpartum depression.
Many new mothers undergo postpartum depression or feel under the blues. It can lead to mood swings, anxiety, crying and even difficulty in sleeping. It is common to experience it in the first two or three days. However, if it persists for more than two weeks, it can be a cause of concern.
What is postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression refers to a mental health condition that tends to affect women right after they give birth. Due to postpartum depression, many women may feel lonely, restless or worthless for a long time. Furthermore, anxiety will also kick in.
It is common for women to experience mood swings after giving birth. For example, if they are happy now, they may start crying a few minutes later. While you may think that they feel okay when the baby is sleeping, they don’t. The postpartum depression symptoms last for a long time.
Therefore, in short, postpartum depression is a form of mental health condition after delivery. If you experience depression after delivery for two to three days, it is normal. You might as well consider it to be symptoms of baby blues. Baby blues are a normal part of you being a mother and tend to disappear within ten days. Nonetheless, there are women who experience these symptoms for more than ten days.
What is postpartum depression?
Postpartum depression refers to a mental health condition that tends to affect women right after they give birth. Due to postpartum depression, many women may feel lonely, restless or worthless for a long time. Furthermore, anxiety will also kick in.
It is common for women to experience mood swings after giving birth. For example, if they are happy now, they may start crying a few minutes later. While you may think that they feel okay when the baby is sleeping, they don’t. The postpartum depression symptoms last for a long time.
Therefore, in short, postpartum depression is a form of mental health condition after delivery. If you experience depression after delivery for two to three days, it is normal. You might as well consider it to be symptoms of baby blues. Baby blues are a normal part of you being a mother and tend to disappear within ten days. Nonetheless, there are women who experience these symptoms for more than ten days.
What are the causes of postpartum depression?
The exact cause of postpartum depression is unknown. One of the most probable postpartum depression causes is changes in hormonal levels of the body. Right after giving birth to a child, your body undergoes a lot of changes, especially in terms of chemical functionalities. This can however increase the risk of depression.
Nonetheless, you may also experience postpartum depression if you have had any of these:
●Previous history of postpartum depression.
●Premenstrual syndrome.
●Clinical depression
●Stress in work-life balance
●Lack of emotional support
●Stressful pregnancy
●Marital conflict
●Mood disorder family history
●Early age pregnancy
However, there are certain mental and physical factors that may contribute to postpartum depression. These include:
●Lack of sleep: Having a child can be an overwhelming experience. This is mostly because you have to be around them all the time. In such cases, you tend to lose sleep. This can however cause you trouble thereby preventing you from sleeping peacefully. The inability to sleep can often increase the risk of postpartum depression.
●Self-inferiority complex: After giving birth, many women feel that they aren’t attractive enough. This often causes self-image issues. In fact, many women also struggle with a sense of identity as they feel they are losing control of their life. This can eventually increase the risk of postpartum depression.
●Hormones: After childbirth, there is a significant drop in progesterone and estrogen levels. These hormones are crucial during the childbirth stage. Apart from these, there may also be a steep decline in other hormones that can make you feel stressed and depressed. It will also make you feel sluggish and unable to function normally.
●Anxiety: Many women are likely to experience anxiety after giving birth to a child. This is mostly because they feel under confident considering that they may not be able to take care of the child. Therefore, this feeling of anxiousness can eventually lead to an increased risk of postpartum depression.
What are the postpartum depression symptoms?
It can be tough to detect the signs of postpartum depression. Many women may skip it thinking that it’s a regular habit. However, it is a serious condition that needs to be addressed.
Some of the common postpartum depression symptoms include:
●Inability to sleep
●Appetite change
●Lower libido
●Sudden mood changes
●Severe fatigue
Many women are also likely to experience the other symptoms of depression, which may or may not be related to childbirth. Some of these unusual postpartum depression symptoms include the following:
●Feeling crankiness
●Loss of happiness and pleasure
●Being uninterested in the baby
●Constant crying for no reason
●Constantly thinking that they might hurt someone
●Suicidal thoughts
●Trouble in concentration
Furthermore, around 1-3% of women are also likely to experience obsessive-compulsive disorder or OCD. This may often be because of the thoughts related to the baby’s health or harming the baby. Many new mothers may also experience panic attacks.
If postpartum depression isn’t treated in new mothers, it can be slightly problematic. It is advisable to seek professional help as soon as possible. Some of the conditions, when the new moms should consider getting help from professionals include:
●They aren’t able to work.
●The symptoms have existed for more than two weeks.
●They have been feeling anxious and stressed for a long time.
●They are unable to cope with the situation.
What are the risk factors and complications in postpartum depression?
If postpartum depression isn’t treated in time, it can hamper your bond with the child. Furthermore, it will have a lot of negative impact on your relationship with your family members.
If the postpartum depression isn’t treated, it can even turn to chronic depressive order. Furthermore, it can lead you to have multiple episodes of depression in the long run. Apart from mothers, fathers are also prone to experience postpartum depression. Children of depressed mothers can also experience postpartum depression. They tend to cry more than usual and have delayed development.
Can We Prevent Postpartum Depression?
Postpartum depression is a condition that can be avoided. Nonetheless, if you have had a history of postpartum depression in previous pregnancies, you are likely to experience it again. The best thing to do is to maintain a positive attitude. The more you keep your mind and body healthy, the faster you will recover.
It is advisable to stay away from caffeine and alcohol. If you are likely to experience postpartum depression symptoms, you need to stop their consumption. Furthermore, it is also advisable to bring some changes in the lifestyle. Psychotherapy and antidepressant medicines can however be of great help for overcoming the condition.
If anyone is suffering from postpartum psychosis, they may be recommended to take psychosis drugs. In such cases, it is advisable to undergo hospital admission. Breastfeeding mothers can also take these medicines. However, before starting the use of these medicines, it is advisable to consult the doctor. The doctor will determine whether or not you should take these antidepressants depending on your condition.
When to consult a doctor?
If your condition has worsened and lasted more than ten days, you are likely to experience it frequently. Therefore, in such cases, you must consider reaching out to a doctor.
Key Takeaways
Once Prega News delivers the good news of your pregnancy, you must take good care of your physical and mental health to ensure that the journey is smooth and you deliver a healthy baby. It is also important to manage your own health to avoid the risk of postpartum depression and maintain a positive attitude. In spite of all precautions, if you ever experience the symptoms of postpartum depression, you need to get in touch with the doctor. Furthermore, having a healthy lifestyle can also be of great help in overcoming these challenges due to postpartum depression.
FAQ
●What are the signs and symptoms of the postpartum period?
Anxiety, restlessness and feeling of worthlessness are some of the common symptoms of postpartum depression. Mothers may also experience constant crying.
●Is PPD the same as depression?
No. Although the symptoms are very similar, PPD usually goes away in two to three weeks, but depression usually lasts longer.
●How can you reduce the risk of postnatal depression?
Eating healthy and following a healthy lifestyle can be the key self-help methods to reducing the risk of postnatal depression.
●How long can you go through postpartum?
Usually, women can go through two to three weeks of postpartum depression.
●Can depression affect breastfeeding?
Yes. In many cases, the mother may not feel attached to the child. Therefore, she may refrain from breastfeeding the child.
Keep your mind positive. Eat healthy food and stay cheerful. Postpartum depression is a short phase and you can snap out of it with some self-love and help from a caring partner. In case the symptoms persist, it is best to seek a medical opinion.
Are you worried about premature birth? Do you fear preterm labour and delivery? Imagine giving birth several weeks before the baby is due. Will the baby be ready for the world? Will the baby survive since vital organs may be underdeveloped? Handling premature labour and delivery is tough for both the mom and baby. However, it is not impossible to get through this with flying colours. Read on to clear your doubts about preterm delivery and its accompanying risks.
Before that, let’s discuss What is Preterm Labour?
Preterm or premature labour is the regular contraction that happens when the cervix opens after week 20 or before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Going into preterm labour does not necessarily mean that a woman will give premature birth. However, it can lead to premature birth, which creates a higher health risk for the baby.
There are some results that premature babies or preemies may have long-term health issues and physical disabilities. The premature baby needs proper medical attention. If a woman is going through preterm labour, she needs to consult the doctor right away.
Signs and symptoms of Preterm labour
Preterm labour can happen to any pregnant woman. There are few specific causes or patterns. But, here are some common signs and symptoms which can lead to the birth of a preemie: –
●Frequent Menstrual-type cramps or abdominal tightening.
●Experience tightening or sensation in the lower abdomen for some women.
●Constant lower back pain travels to the front anterior.
●Put pressure on the vagina.
●Changes in Vaginal discharge – can be watery, mucus-like, or bloody.
●Vaginal spotting or light bleeding
●Membrane rupture around the baby results in a continuous trickle of fluid or also called water breaks.
Many women face preterm contractions as early as 23-24 weeks of gestation. But if you are having contractions every 10 minutes/ 6 times in an hour, run to a doctor immediately for further checkups.
What are the risks factors for Premature labour and birth?
Risk factors can affect any pregnancy. Look at these factors which can increase the risk of preterm labour and what causes preterm birth among women, including: –
●Past preterm labour or premature birth can cause problems in the recent pregnancy.
●Pregnancy with twins, triplets, or other multiples
●The short cervix can be another problem.
●Any problem with the uterus or placenta
●Using drugs or Smoking cigarettes causes early delivery.
●Pregnancy can be at risk of moms having certain chronic conditions, such as high blood pressure, diabetes, autoimmune disease, and depression.
●Depression and stressful life events cause problems too.
●High blood pressure with fluid build-up and proteinuria medically called Preeclampsia
●Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy
●Defects of fetal birth in the womb.
●Either mother is younger than 18 or older than 35
Can you reduce your risk for preterm labour?
●The proper gap between pregnancies: You should wait 18 months before getting pregnant again. It allows your body to heal and reduces the chance of having another preterm birth.
●Contraceptive method: Sexually transmitted diseases can cause early delivery. Contraception is the most effective method that includes the IUD or implant. Consult with a doctor to know what type of contraception is best for you.
●Take progesterone: If you have a history of delivering a premature baby, talk to your doctor about takingin your next pregnancy to lower the chance of having another premature birth.
●Manage weight: Overweight and underweight women suffer premature labour. During this time, pregnant women should work on their health and maintain a healthy weight based on what their doctor recommends.
●Avoid smoking and using drugs as they can increase your chances of having a preemie.
●Control chronic diseases: if you have heart disease, diabetes, high blood pressure, or autoimmune disease, work on controlling them and work with a doctor to take treatments before your next pregnancy
●Infertility treatment: It may increase the chance of getting pregnant with more than one baby. Unfortunately, twin and triplet pregnancies are the real cause of delivering early.
●Frequent Checkups: When you do get pregnant, try to be regular with checkups. Women who receive good prenatal care have a lower chance of giving birth to a preemie.
Other Complications of Premature Birth
Premature babies are born before organ systems have fully matured. These babies are born small with a low birth weight (less than 2,500 grams or 5.5 pounds). They may also need help in breathing, eating, fighting infection, and staying warm. Babies born before 24 weeks are at higher risks of health issues.
Premature babies may have other problems, including:
Not being able to maintain the body temperature or stay warm may lead them to be kept in an incubator
●Have Breathing problems leading to use of ventilator which can cause other issues
●Suffer from heart diseases, such as heart and blood vessels problems, heart defects, and heart rate problems.
●Blood problems such as anaemia, jaundice, or hypoglycemia.
●Digestive problems such as trouble feeding and poor digestion
●Nervous system problems bleeding in the brain or seizures
●Viral Infections or bacterial
Key Takeaway
●Preterm labour is an early contraction that starts before 37 weeks of pregnancy.
●Symptoms of early labour include low abdominal contractions, menstrual cramps, backache, or leaking of ammonia fluid from the vagina.
●It may result in the early birth of the baby, which causes them serious health problems such as heart and lung disease.
●Prevent the risk factors such as smoking, following an unhealthy diet, proper measures between pregnancies, and regular checkups to avoid any complications.
People also ask (FAQ)
How long can you be in preterm labour?
If it’s your first pregnancy, the early labour lasts about 6 to 12 hours. During this time, you can take some rest or try to be more comfortable at home. Stay healthy and manage the diet. You may also have mild contractions that can last between 5 – 15 minutes.
What triggers preterm labour?
The most common reasons are infection and inflammation that cause preterm labour during the gestational age, between 20 – 32 weeks gestation. Further, preterm birth is caused by the bacterial or viral infection in the vagina, bladder, uterus, or other body parts.
How can I manage the preterm labour?
Preterm labour can be managed by what is best for your health and the fetus’s health. If the fetus would benefit from a delay in delivery, medications may help the organs mature more quickly, reduce the risk of certain complications, and attempt to delay delivery for a short time.
Does the baby move during preterm labour?
Yes, baby movement starts between 16-18 weeks of pregnancy. If you have had a baby before, you will start feeling the baby move in 18-20 weeks. All women should feel baby movements before 24 weeks.
What are the physical problems of premature babies?
A “preemie” is a baby born too early, or about three weeks before the due date. The complete fetal development takes about 40 weeks. Premature birth occurs before 37 weeks. Babies require 9months to grow fully. If the baby is born too early, it can cause serious health problems. Preemies may have heart, brain, lung, or liver issues.
They are also at a higher risk of physical development problems. These can lead to physical issues later in life, including:
●Cerebral palsy.
●Hearing and vision problems.
●Learning disabilities.
●Poor growth.
Can having preterm labour lead to premature birth?
It is difficult for health care professionals to predict which women with preterm labour tend to give a premature baby. They will try to delay the delivery as long as possible with the help of medication to give the baby a chance to develop inside the womb. You must consult your doctor as soon as you experience symptoms and let them decide what is best for you.
Having a preterm baby can be stressful for both mother and baby. However, with proper medical care and precautions, a premature baby can be nursed to grow normally. Once Preganews delivers the good news about your baby’s arrival to you, make sure you take good care of yourself and reduce the risk factors that could lead to premature birth.
Congratulations! Now that you have seen the two pink lines on the Prega News test kit, it’s time to celebrate the upcoming arrival of the new addition to your family. When the pregnancy test kit confirms your pregnancy, it is also the time to check-in with your doctor and get all the recommended tests and advice that you would need during this time. This is also a time of learning and unfortunately there are plenty of pregnancy myths out there that you are sure to come across whether through others or through some source. However, Prega News makes it easy for you to stay informed during this time by busting the most common pregnancy myths. So let’s take a look!
Common pregnancy myths
Ranging from how to tell the baby’s gender to how much hair your baby will have – there are myths about everything surrounding pregnancy and childbirth. Here are the most common ones to stay aware about. Learning more about facts and less about myths can help you maintain a healthy pregnancy with peace of mind. So read on to know more about these myths and if there’s any truth to them!
●Start eating for two
Perhaps the most common myth out there is that the moment you are pregnant, you should start eating for two. This is not only not true but can also be harmful for you as excessive weight gain can impact both you and your baby’s health. In fact, it is normal to keep the same intake of calories or some more during the first trimester. Even in the later stages, it is not advised to eat for two but gradually increase the calorie intake, a number that is decided by taking into account your health and your pre-pregnancy weight. Eating right and eating healthy during pregnancy is what is most important! And in today’s world, your doctor will likely recommend you to a dietician to better understand what and how much to eat during this time.
●Exercise pregnancy myths
You shouldn’t do any exercise during pregnancy – haven’t you heard that already? The most common misconception is that one shouldn’t do any physical exercise when pregnant. However, unless the doctor has specifically prescribed bed rest due to some bodily conditions, it is advisable to include some form of exercise or the other in your daily routine. From yoga and walking to swimming – there’s a plethora of exercises you can do to stay healthy. Just make sure to check-in with your doctor before you start anything new and your doctor will be able to guide you on physical activities depending on the needs, your previous habits and the stage of pregnancy.
●What you had before you knew you were pregnant can harm your baby
For the first weeks after conception, many women may not be aware of their pregnancy and may have had a glass of wine or some exotic food or even an over-the-counter drug. However, doctors say that the ill effects’ causing substances are under a limited list and many of these things may have no impact at all. However, to be on the safe side, inform your doctor of all your worries as soon as you find out you are pregnant, so your doctor can help you alleviate those worries.
●No sex during pregnancy
Having sex during pregnancy can hurt your baby – it’s time to debunk this myth. While some postures may be uncomfortable, sex during pregnancy is absolutely okay as per doctors. You can ask your doctor for any precautions or safe positions but do not shy away from intimate time with your partner.
●You can miscarry if you lift heavy objects, take the stairs or do exercises
According to doctors, miscarriages can be caused by various hormonal and other factors and not by doing regular activities. As long as you stick to what’s comfortable to you and not engage in high-risk adventures like horse-racing and sky-diving etc., you should be fine. As your centre of gravity shifts during this time, you are prone to be imbalanced, so it’s better to be cautious during any activity.
●Big bellies have difficult deliveries
Another unfounded myth – your belly size doesn’t determine what type of birth you will have or how easy or difficult it will be. The additional weight gain can depend on many factors like your body weight, water retention etc. and a big belly doesn’t always signify a big baby.
●Avoid all seafood during pregnancy
Many women are asked to completely cut down on seafood during pregnancy. The risk of mercury and thus fish like king mackerel and swordfish should be avoided. It is also best to avoid raw fish during this time, unless your doctor gives you a go-ahead on the same. Consult your doctor for what to eat and what not to eat during this time, without paying heed to myths.
●Heartburn indicates that baby will have full head of hair
Doctors agree that heartburn only indicates that you ate something which caused indigestion and you should watch your diet to avoid it. Avoiding spicy, fried food and big meals, can significantly reduce heartburn during pregnancy and your baby can still have a normal amount of hair!
●Avoid all caffeine completely
According to gynaecologists, one or two servings of caffeine is absolutely safe during pregnancy unless you have some other conditions like heartburn, which may be worsened by hot drinks.
Key Takeaway
As explained above, it’s best to verify all the information that you come across when you are pregnant before implementing them. People love sharing stories and may be more than eager to give you a fair share of their experiences or what they might have heard. However, this can be misinformation or simply cause anxiety so it’s better to make a list of things to ignore when you are pregnant, with myths topping the list. Always get verified information from your doctor or physician before you start or stop anything new.
FAQ
What kinds of things should a woman avoid during pregnancy?
While there are some dietary and physical restrictions like avoiding mercury-rich fish or not trying adventure sports, most things are considered okay for pregnant women. However, it is important to check-in with your doctor to get a complete list of your diet, activities and more when you are pregnant, as they would be the best person to guide. Moreover, harmful things like alcohol, tobacco or recreational drugs should be avoided completely, and not even inhaled second-hand.
Is pregnancy cravings a myth?
Cravings are caused by hormonal changes in your body which in turn can affect your taste and smell, thus increasing or decreasing the appetite for some foods. However, it is a myth to believe that all women will get weird cravings during pregnancy.
Do we get negative thoughts during pregnancy?
It is normal to have negative thoughts at any point in time – during pregnancy these negative thoughts can be caused by hormonal changes, or excessive worrying about the baby’s well-being, childbirth and the new role of the mother. However, it’s important to seek help and resolve these issues by talking to a specialist in order to enjoy a healthy pregnancy, both physically and mentally.
What are the common myths and facts about pregnancy?
Not getting exercise, eating for two and avoiding sex are some of the common myths about pregnancy. However, the fact is that one should eat healthy and exercise during pregnancy for the proper weight gain and not excessive weight gain. Your doctor is the best person to determine exactly how many extra calories you need during pregnancy and how active you should be during this time. Doctors also say that sex during pregnancy is absolutely okay when done with certain precautions like avoiding risky postures etc.
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 fertilityas 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.
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
●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.
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