Physical Archives

Body Changes During Pregnancy: First Trimester

Posted on February 1, 2021April 29, 2024 by admin

Whether you are planning your pregnancy or already expecting, it’s always exciting to look forward to the day when you will meet your little one. And for that, one must ensure a healthy pregnancy. This phase is also exciting as you see the changes everyday and feel your baby growing inside of you.

If you are still planning or trying, you can make use of the pregnancy test calculator when you notice any early signs of pregnancy. In fact, the Prega News test results are pretty accurate and you can get the good news in just 5 minutes. If you are new to this, a quick guide on how to use Prega News can help you out. Just make sure you make a note of things to keep in mind before taking the home pregnancy test.

Body Changes During Pregnancy: First Trimester

Now that you have confirmed the good news, here are some body changes you will notice in your first trimester of the pregnancy:

Morning sickness
Swollen or tender breasts
Frequent urination
Tiredness
Food cravings & repulsions
Heartburn & constipation
Visible veins
Skin changes
Mood swings

Morning Sickness

As the pregnancy advances, usually around the 6th week of pregnancy you will notice the nausea. And unlike the name, it can be inflicted at any time. While some women never have nausea, most women experience it to some extent. Nausea generally subsides by the second trimester, but if it gets too severe it’s best to consult your doctor for any medication that can soothe it. Also, avoid foods that cause nausea and eat small meals and other foods recommended during pregnancy frequently to aid digestion and avoid nausea.

Swollen or Tender Breasts

Soon after you conceive, you may notice a tenderness, some swelling or increased sensitivity in your breasts. This is caused by hormonal changes in the body and the increasing size to accommodate your baby’s feeding schedule. The discomfort generally subsides by the second trimester and you get used to the changes.

Frequent Urination

As your baby grows and your womb adjusts to the growth, your body produces more blood and the extra growth can also put some pressure on your bladder. This results in frequent urination and can cause some inconvenience. So it’s advisable to plan your travels etc. accordingly.

Tiredness

The sudden change in hormone levels can cause you to feel more tired than usual and you may feel the need to rest more frequently. This is also advisable in the first trimester – get as much rest as needed and take frequent breaks to avoid over-stressing and exhaustion.

Food Cravings & Repulsions

The most talked about change – you will experience cravings as well as aversions to different kinds of food. These may be extremely different from your regular choices but as long as it’s fresh and not harmful, you can indulge your taste buds. Also, ensure these don’t cause indigestion etc. Following simple guidelines on what to eat during pregnancy can also help you avoid these discomforts.

Heartburn & Constipation

Other not-so-pleasant changes – women can be frequently plagued by heartburn and constipation in the first trimester. While you can consult your doctor for the same, you can try home remedies that aid digestion. Avoid eating spicy or rich foods that can cause heartburn and include plenty of fiber in your diet to avoid getting constipated.

Visible Veins

As your body works non-stop and produces more blood, it also circulates more thus resulting in more-than-usual noticeable veins. These are more prominent in your breasts and legs. You may also notice smaller veins branching out, commonly known as spider veins.

Skin Changes

Often called the pregnancy glow, you will notice a healthier and more ‘glowing’ skin during your pregnancy. Along with hormonal changes, your body is also pumping a lot of extra blood thus resulting in the flush or ‘pregnancy glow’.

Mood Swings

As you undergo hormonal changes, along with your body, your mind also experiences these changes. As a result of this, you may experience elevated mood swings – both the bad and good. If you have any pre-existing conditions like depression, do remember to inform your doctor. Also, keeping a tab on the same and monitoring it can help avoid stress and unwanted distress.

As you undergo these changes, do remember to keep a close eye on your symptoms and developments and ensure that you do not miss any doctor’s appointments. Also, this is the time to not indulge in pregnancy myths but following proven facts. If you notice any distressing developments like bleeding etc. contact your doctor immediately.

Take care!

Disclaimer:This blog solely intended for the educational/informational/awareness purposes and is not a substitute for any professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. Please consult your doctor/healthcare professional before acting on the information provided on the blog. Reliance on any or all information provided in the blog, is solely at your own risk and responsibility. Mankind Pharma Limited shall not be held liable, in any circumstance whatsoever.

What is Postpartum Care? Tips, Change: Emotional & Physical

Posted on December 31, 2020April 29, 2024 by admin

As soon as you use the due date calculator or see the two pink lines on the pregnancy test kit, to check when will you see your little one, your excitement knows no bounds. However, pregnancy, childbirth and all that they entail do not end after you deliver your baby. The next stage after delivery is the postpartum stage.

What is Postpartum Care?

Right after you undergo delivery (whether natural or C-section), you undergo many changes – physical, emotional and mental. This stage, called postpartum, is the time it takes for you to go back to your pre-pregnancy stage, and can often last between 6-8 weeks post childbirth. However, each experience is unique and some may recover sooner or later, depending on many factors like the experience of childbirth, previous conditions etc.

As you navigate through the postpartum, you also get acquainted with many physical and emotional changes. You are healing your body while you and your partner learn to look after the newborn. As you experience all these, it can get overwhelming at times. It is thus, extremely crucial that you identify all the signs and changes and work towards healing them or accepting them. This care for the mother post-delivery, is called postpartum care.

What are some changes one undergoes physically & emotionally, after a normal delivery?

If you have just undergone a normal delivery, you can observe some or all of the changes, listed below:

Vaginal Soreness
Vaginal Discharge
Urine Leakage
Hemorrhoids
Tender Breasts
Hair & Skin Changes
Changes in Mood

Vaginal Soreness
If you had a vaginal tear or needed an incision during childbirth, there may be some vaginal soreness post the delivery. Or in layman terms, there is a loss of tightness after birth. This can be alleviated with cold/hot packs, over-the-counter painkillers, warm baths etc.

Vaginal Discharge
Post-delivery, you will start shedding the superficial mucous membrane that lines the uterus during pregnancy. This can cause heavy bleeding and can last up to weeks. However if you experience too much pain or it continues for a long time, you should consult your doctor.

Urine Leakage
Vaginal delivery can loosen your pelvic muscles and this can lead to a few drops of urine leakage involuntarily when you laugh, sneeze etc. You can consult your doctor for any exercises that can help tackle this.

Hemorrhoids
If you experience pain while passing bowels or notice a swelling in the area, you may have hemorrhoids. You can consult your doctor and it can be eased with creams, medication or eating fiber-rich foods.

Tender Breasts

The breast engorgement, usually experienced after childbirth can be eased with frequent breastfeeding on both sides. Benefits of breastfeeding have been noted in both mother and baby and can also help ease the tenderness.

Hair & Skin Changes
When you’re pregnant, your hormonal changes can make your hair grow faster than it sheds and also make you skin glow. But after delivery, you may observe the exact opposite as your hormone levels go back to normal. This can last up to 4-5 months. However, there are some hair and skin tips that you can look into to take care of this.

Changes in Mood
Hormonal changes and the sudden shift of roles, can often lead to mood swings post childbirth. It’s important that you stay conscious of these changes and address them accordingly. If your mood swings are unusually low or if you notice the signs of postpartum depression, it’s best to get in touch with experts.

Tips for Postpartum Care

As you undergo the aforementioned changes, it’s necessary that you look after yourself and here are some postpartum care tips to do just that:

Take ample rest
Keep a check on your physical and mental signs & developments
Eat healthy
Do light exercises after consulting your doctor
Check-in with your partner and spend some time together
Check-in with your doctor at all stages
Consult your doctor immediately if you notice anything unusual
Practice yoga or meditation for a calm mind
Take some time for yourself

Key Takeaway

Postpartum care is an important part of every woman’s healing journey and is unique to her. Paying attention to your signs and always consulting your doctor can make this process easier. Keeping a calm mind and allowing yourself time to heal with the help of loved ones is the key to a healthy recovery.

Frequently Asked Questions

How long should you rest after giving birth?
Rest for at least 6-8 weeks after giving birth. However, this will depend on how you give birth and the conditions during this time. It’s best to consult your doctor after childbirth.
How should I sleep after delivery?
Sleeping on the side is generally recommended after delivery but it all depends on your comfort level and your doctor’s recommendation.
How can I make my tummy flat after delivery?
Immediately after childbirth, breastfeeding helps reduce weight but the tummy/ovary will go back to its original size after 6-8 weeks. Post childbirth, you can consult your doctor and start exercises and a healthy diet to get back into shape.
How do I know if I tore my stitches after birth?
Tearing your stitches will cause some kind of discomfort – usually pain or bleeding. It’s best to check-in with your doctor to ensure that everything is in order for recovery.
Why do I still look pregnant 3 months postpartum?
Every pregnancy and delivery is different and it may take longer for some to go back to their pre-pregnancy stage. Consult your doctor, if you notice no change even after a prolonged period.
How long does it take for a woman’s body to go back to normal after pregnancy?
Normally, it takes 6-8 weeks for your body to go back to your pre-pregnancy stage to a certain extent. However, a complete recovery is a long process and can be achieved with the right diet, guidance and light exercises. You can consult your dietician or doctor for guidance on the same.
How to take care of your vagina after giving birth?
If you had a vaginal birth, you may experience pain and soreness post-delivery. Hot/cold compresses and warm baths can ease the pain and you can also ask your doctor for prescription painkillers.

What to Eat During Pregnancy

Posted on December 28, 2020April 29, 2024 by admin

Whether you are experiencing ovulation symptoms, planning your pregnancy or already pregnant, eating right and eating healthy is always the best way forward. Having the right diet not only increases your chances of conception, but also ensures a healthy pregnancy after. Moreover, it also helps maintain your hormone levels and the ideal weight, which ensure your overall well-being and later on the well-being of your foetus. And if you eat right, exercise and have a fertility window, it won’t take long before you see those two pink lines on a pregnancy test kit. In fact, if you have been following all the tips, keeping a home pregnancy test kit will be really helpful and you can always find help on how to use a pregnancy test kit, which is very easy.

So if you’re looking for what to eat during pregnancy, this is just the thing for you. Healthy eating during pregnancy not only ensures the proper growth of your baby by providing the right nutrients, but can also help maintain hormone balance and help you tackle things like nausea. The right pregnancy diet should include a bit of everything and all food groups.

A general rule of thumb, would be that food for pregnant women need not be vastly different from what we eat every day, barring foods containing unhealthy fats, salt and sugar. In fact, experts recommend not changing a diet too much just because you’re pregnant. This means, one should not take up a completely different diet during pregnancy like becoming vegan or suddenly eating meat. Food you grew up eating is a good way to start focusing on how to eat right during pregnancy. If you grew up eating more millet and vegetables, you can customize your diet as per the same, so on and so forth.

Food for Pregnant Women

The proper diet for pregnant women includes nutrient-rich foods that help keep the mother and baby healthy. Now, let’s look at the individual groups of foods that constitute a healthy diet. Broadly speaking, one should aim to include the following in their pregnancy diet:

Vegetables & legumes
Grains, pulses & cereals
Dairy products
Fresh fruits
Protein rich foods
Staying hydrated

Vegetables & Legumes

Fresh leafy vegetables and legumes can be consumed in many forms and are really good for expectant mothers. Apart from being extremely delicious, these also provide vitamins and minerals which are essential for baby’s growth. These are also fiber-rich food and help prevent constipation, which is a common occurrence during pregnancy. From salads to curries – there’s a lot you can make with these staples.

Grains, Pulses & Cereals

These provide carbohydrates which keep you full and help prevent binging on junk. Try to consume them in whole-meal form rather than processed. Additionally, they are also good sources of iron, vitamins, zinc, magnesium and more, all of which add to baby’s development in the womb. These starchy foods also have plenty of fiber, which aids digestion, thus preventing heartburn etc.

Dairy Products

Unless you are lactose intolerant, you can include dairy products like yoghurt, milk and cheese in your diet. These are rich in calcium and other nutrients that are needed by your baby. However, make sure to read the nutrition value or ingredients on the label before buying the products. Also, avoid any new kinds of dairy products to prevent indigestion or allergies.v

Fresh Fruits

Fresh fruits are good for almost everybody and pregnant women are no exception. Rich source of fiber, vitamins and minerals, fruits can be consumed in salads or even as a snack.

Protein Rich Foods

Lean meat like poultry and fish are good sources of protein and extremely important for the pregnancy diet. Barring liver and mercury-rich fish, these can be consumed safely during pregnancy. You can also enjoy lightly grilled fish or chicken as a whole meal. For other sources of protein, you can use tofu, pulses, beans and nuts.v

Staying Hydrated

Last but not the least, staying hydrated is extremely important during pregnancy. From water to fruit juices – you can choose the choice of your drink to stay hydrated.

Key Takeaway

Eating healthy is made simple with these tips and is easy with a bit of mindful eating. Consult your doctor if you have any questions on your diet or if any foods affect you adversely. It’s best not to try new diets or food groups, unless specifically suggested by experts. This is to prevent allergies and adverse reactions. In fact, as you get closer to your delivery date, which can easily be calculated with a due date calculator, you can even consult your doctor on foods to eat that can help make the delivery easier.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the best food to eat during pregnancy?
Vitamins and mineral rich groups like vegetables, fruits, carbohydrates etc. are good for pregnancy diet – these can include leafy vegetables, watermelons, rice, sweet potato, chicken or tofu etc. Any food which is rich in fiber, vitamins and other nutrients is considered good for a pregnancy diet. It is important to mix food groups to get every nutrient.
Which fruits should be avoided during pregnancy?
Papaya, pineapple and grapes are usually best avoided during pregnancy as they can cause various things like heating up the body, premature contractions etc.
Is rice good for pregnancy?
Yes, rice is safe and healthy for pregnancy when taken in moderation and often essential for getting the right nutrients.
Is it OK to eat pizza while pregnant?
Yes. If you are eating a pizza, choosing the right toppings can prove to be good for you. Also, choosing a whole wheat crust or a veggie crust can provide additional nutrients.
Can I eat spicy food while pregnant?
Yes. It is safe to consume spicy food during pregnancy but if you’re suffering from indigestion or heartburn, spicier food can aggravate the situation.

Ovulation Symptoms: How to test & Why they are important

Posted on December 23, 2020April 29, 2024 by admin

Ovulation – a term most women, who are trying to conceive, would be all too familiar with. In this article, we will break it down for every one of you who’s trying to know more about the journey to pregnancy and trying to conceive. After all, understanding and knowing your ovulation cycle is one of the first steps of successful pregnancy planning.

What is ovulation?

Ovulation is the term used for release of an egg from the ovary to the fallopian tube. It typically occurs 13-15 days before the start date of the period. Much like periods, the cycle of ovulation can vary at times and at some instances, there may be no ovulation at all. This is also the time when a woman is typically most fertile.

The release of an egg in each cycle depends on many factors like stress, your environment, eating habits, conditions like PCOS, hormones etc. In the previous stages before they fully mature, the eggs are called as follicles and in a healthy body, at any given time, there may be many follicles in various stages of development.

What are ovulation symptoms?

There are several symptoms which can be noted and observed to note ovulation cycles. Some of these include:

Rise and fall of body basal temperature – this can be tracked with a special basal body thermometer. Broadly it’s the first reading after at least 3-5 hours of sleep at night, before you leave the bed
Cervical mucus becomes thinner and clearer with a more slippery consistency
The softening and opening of the cervix
Mild cramps and twinges of pain in the lower abdomen
Increased sex drive
Light spotting
Slight swelling of vagina or vulva

Irregular ovulation symptoms

The absence or irregularity of ovulation is termed as anovulatory cycle. It can occur in women for many reasons and can also go undetected. Girls who have just attained puberty or women closer to menopause may often experience this, made evident by irregular or no periods. Sometimes, a woman can also have normal periods and not ovulate. So apart from irregular or no periods, there may be some scans/tests that your doctor might do to check if you’re ovulating. These include:

Checking your progesterone levels
Checking the lining of your uterus
Checking your blood for the presence of certain antibodies

Ovulation symptom tests

Apart from the symptoms given above, there are also various ovulation symptom tests that can help you determine your ovulation window. Some of these are:

Ovulation calculator: Ovulation calculator apps can be used to a certain extent to track your period date and thus your ovulation date.
Ovulation predictor kit: These kits identify the ovulation date 12-24 hours before ovulation. You just need to pee on a stick and it evaluates the levels of luteinizing hormones or LH, the last of the hormones to hit its peak before ovulation.
Saliva test: This measures the estrogen levels in your saliva as your ovulation date approaches. This test is reusable and often more affordable.
Salt detection tests: There are tests that determine the salts in a woman’s sweat like chloride, sodium and potassium. The levels of these change throughout the month and can give a four day warning before you ovulate.

Key Takeaway

If you’re trying to conceive, keeping a check on your ovulation cycle can prove to be helpful. Reducing stress, improving lifestyle habits, getting proper exercise etc. can help increase your chances of conceiving. These factors are just as important throughout pregnancy and should always be paid attention. In fact, there are multiple guides on what to eat during pregnancy, but the awareness about eating right even before is comparatively low.

However, if you have been unsuccessful in getting pregnant, the best way forward would be to approach your gynaecologist, who can conduct all necessary tests and chart a plan, customized for you.

If you are trying to conceive and have missed your periods, you might want to keep a home pregnancy test kit handy, which is also very easy to use. In case you’re wondering, how to use a pregnancy kit, there are also videos which can help you with the same.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is headache a sign of ovulation?
While many women do complain of migraines during ovulation, it’s not a sign that helps determine for sure if you are ovulating.
How long does ovulation symptoms last?
Ovulation occurs anywhere between 12-24 hours. However, the symptoms (as explained above) can occur any time before ovulation and can last up to several days.
How many days do you ovulate?
Ovulation occurs once a month and generally lasts for 24 hours.
Can you get pregnant 2 days after ovulation?
Getting pregnant after ovulation is possible, but is limited to the 12-24 hours after your egg has been released. Cervical mucus helps sperm live up to 5 days in a woman’s body, and it takes around 6 hours for active sperm to reach the fallopian tubes. If the sperm is there when or shortly after an egg is released, you can quickly become pregnant in the day after ovulation.
Is ovulation a good sign of fertility?
Yes, ovulation indicates a fertile window for getting pregnant.

Home Pregnancy Test: What, How to & Types

Posted on December 3, 2020May 15, 2024 by admin

Even before you go to the doctor, there are subtle early signs of pregnancy that can give you an idea of what is coming. As soon as you miss your period, have cravings, experience morning sickness or notice any other sign, you can opt for one of the many pregnancy tests at home to find out the good news!

What is a Home Pregnancy Test?

Pregnancy tests at home are generally very easy-to-use and can be highly accurate if you use them correctly. They generally involve urinating on a stick or into a cup and putting a few drops of urine in the designated slot. After waiting for a few minutes, you can find out the result by looking at the result flashing or the number of lines appearing on the display area.

How Do Home Pregnancy Tests Work?

These tests are designed to check for a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) in the urine. Your body only produces this hormone when you are pregnant. HCG is released when the fertilized egg is attached to your uterus lining.

Generally, women are advised to take the pregnancy test after missing a period. For accurate results, one must also conduct the test with the first urine of the day – i.e right after you wake up. Any tests taken before this time, can end up in a false positive or a false negative result.

The accuracy of the test also depends on the quality and the expiration date of the strip. Always ensure to check the expiration date on the pack before buying or using.

Types of Homemade Pregnancy Tests

Apart from the over-the-counter tests available at any pharmacy shop, many also advocate the usage of homemade pregnancy tests. These could involve a wide variety of things.

Dissolving salt or sugar in your urine is one way to find out if you’re pregnant. It is believed that if you’re pregnant the reaction with the urine causes these substances to form clumps instead of dissolving. Mixing urine with baking soda is also supposed to show positive results if you notice bubbles and fizz. The same can also be done with shampoo, soap or even toothpaste.

However, these are simply homemade tests and not medically proposed or sanctioned. For the best results, it’s always safer to use a medically approved pregnancy test kit at home that is easily available and also easy-to-use.

Prega News Kit

Prega News home pregnancy test kit is India’s No.1 pregnancy test card and is easily available online or at your nearest pharmacy. It is extremely accurate and very easy to use. After you have missed your period, or even after 10-15 days of unprotected sex, Prega News can show you accurate results.

Collect the first urine of the day in a clean cup and add 2-3 drops of the same to the slot on the stick.

Wait for 5 minutes and check for results:

If the strip shows two pink lines, it indicates that you are pregnant
If it shows one line, you are not pregnant
If no lines show, it may have expired or the test may be inconclusive in which case you may want to take another test or wait for a few more days before taking the test again
If the line on the T is too faint, it may indicate that the amount of hCG may not be enough and you may want to retake the test with the first urine.

Also, if the results are negative but you still haven’t gotten your periods, it is recommended that you see your doctor.

FAQ

How can I check if I am pregnant, at home?
You can use a Prega News test kit to check for pregnancy at home. Take the test with the first urine of the day and if two pink lines are visible, then you are pregnant.
How early can you detect pregnancy at home?
While the tests are highly accurate and can detect pregnancy 10-15 days after unprotected sex, it is recommended to take the test after you have missed your period.
How can you tell you are pregnant without a test at home?
While a missed period and other early signs of pregnancy can be noticed, pregnancy can only be confirmed with a test kit or by visiting your doctor, who will also conduct either a urine or blood test.
What are some unusual signs of early pregnancy?
Some early signs of pregnancy are sore breasts, frequent urination, heightened sense of smell, fatigue, constipation, heartburn, mood swings and spotting or cramping are some early signs of pregnancy that you can look for in the early days.

All You Need To Know About Normal Delivery

Posted on November 25, 2020May 15, 2024 by admin

If you’re planning to start a family, a Prega News pregnancy test kit should be kept handy. As you maneuver through the various stages of waiting and anticipation, a simple home test can give you the much awaited good news. And as soon as you see the two pink lines, you know the journey has started. After the initial celebrations and check-ups subside, the big question on most parents’ minds comes in – what about the delivery and which route are we taking?

When it comes to deliveries – you can either choose to have a C-section or a normal delivery. C-sections are often opted by doctors when there are chances of complications. If you have decided to go for the latter, here’s everything you need to know about it. In fact, according to the 2017-18 health survey by the National Statistical Office, 2 out of 3 women have normal deliveries in India.*

What is Normal Delivery?

Normal or vaginal delivery, means the birthing process which is all-natural and generally without the use of any medication or external instruments. This process involves the birth of the baby through the birth canal (vagina) with naturally induced labour. However, some vaginal births also involve painkillers or forceps for easier delivery, which is explained in details below. In this form of delivery, the primary factors are the mother’s comfortable position, the baby’s positioning and pushes by the mother.

Normal delivery or vaginal delivery is where the mother experiences labour as the cervix dilates. Uterine contractions are timed and observed and these help move the baby’s head towards the vaginal opening. These contractions can feel like severe menstrual cramps and the pain differs from woman to woman. If it’s too painful, you can also opt for an epidural which eases the pain. Generally, the vaginal deliveries can last between 12-14 hours or more. And it gets easier with subsequent births.

However, during vaginal deliveries, there are also chances of injury as the baby moves down the birth canal. This may cause stretching and tearing of the tissue around the vagina and may need stitches. A vaginal birth can also result in some pain in the perineum area – the area between the vagina and the anus. Postpartum side effects of natural birth may include vaginal bleeding, swelling, soreness, cramps etc.

Recovery after a natural birth is fairly early and the baby and mother can have skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding sessions soon after birth. In most vaginal deliveries, the mother and baby are discharged in a day or two (24-48 hours), unless otherwise mentioned by the doctor.

Stages of Normal Delivery

Broadly, labour is divided into 3 stages and they are then further elaborated and divided for better understanding.

Stage 1: Cervix dilation
Stage 2: Baby birth through birth canal
Stage 3: Expulsion of placenta and membranes (afterbirths)

Stage 1

The first stage itself can last for over 36 hours and is generally spent at home. This stage involves changes etc. that can be observed up to a week before your actual delivery. What happens during this time is that the womb/uterus’ muscles contract so the cervix is shortened and dilated to enable the birth. This stage broadly involves 3 kinds of things that you will notice:

Contractions: While some women experience mild period-like pain, for others it can be more severe. They can be irregular and short-lived but women are advised to note the kind and frequency of contractions – when they are less than 5 minutes apart and last for over a minute, it’s said that the labour has been established. In other words, during this time, you should be at the place where you wish to have the delivery.
Discharge: Mucus or stringy/brownish blood may appear up to a week before your delivery and should be informed to the doctor. However, if you notice fresh blood, you should consult your doctor immediately.
Water Broke: This is an indicator that the sac of amniotic fluid surrounding your baby has broken. At this point, you should call your doctor and ask for next steps.

Stage 2

This is the stage where your cervix is fully dilated and the baby is slowly making its way to the birth canal (vagina) from the uterus. Since your body is trying to release something, it’s best to assist it in the process by pushing and staying calm. Avoid tensing up as this can further delay the process. This part of the labour can take anywhere between 30 minutes to 2 hours.

At this point, many women opt for an epidural to help alleviate the pain. Your doctor can guide you through the same in case the pain becomes unbearable for you. However, it has been observed that epidural can sometimes elongate the process.

The more you push, the easier it gets at this point. However, some women require further assistance and the doctor may choose to use forceps or vacuum extraction to make the process easier.

Stage 3

This final stage involves the delivery of the placenta. This can be done in two ways and which way to choose depends solely on your birth progress and experience. Sometimes, the placenta can be delivered by your efforts in 15 to 20 minutes after the baby’s birth. At other times, the process has to be induced and helped either with physical help from the doctor or with the use of medications.

Benefits of Normal Delivery

The recovery period after a natural birth is generally much shorter than that of C-sections. Usually, women can go home in a day or two after a vaginal birth, unless there are other complications.
In case of natural birth, the mother and baby initiate skin-to-skin contact almost immediately after birth and feeding is suggested within the first hour. This enables quicker bonding between the mother and the baby.
When it comes to your baby, vaginal birth leads to the release of fluids from the baby’s lungs, thus minimizing the risks of respiratory problems and diseases.
Babies are also exposed to bacteria in the birth canal, which improves their immunity.

FAQ

How is a normal delivery done?
It is also done in hospitals and birthing centres with the help of doctors and experts. It involves the dilation of the cervix and the pushes from the mother, to bring the baby into the birth canal, who is then born through the vagina.
Is normal delivery painful?
The pain in normal delivery differs from woman to woman and it gets easier after the first birth. Which week is best for delivery? Doctors generally advise 39 weeks for the full growth of the baby but if labour is induced earlier or if complications arise, the baby may arrive sooner.
Which type of delivery is best?
The type of delivery is decided by the doctors depending on your and the baby’s health, previous medical records etc.
What should I eat for normal delivery?
As long as you maintain a healthy diet and weight, normal delivery should be okay. Healthy diet includes green vegetables and fruits and lean protein. You must also ensure proper hydration throughout with water and other fluids.

Things to Ignore when you’re pregnant

Posted on February 20, 2019May 15, 2024 by admin

As you take the Prega News pregnancy test and a positive result appears; a surge of emotions take over. From happiness to anxiety, you feel emotions that you never knew you were capable of. Then comes the part where you have to share this happiness with others. Sharing the news is all smiles and balloons until comes the scary advises and questions. Trust me, when you’re pregnant everyone feels the need to ask you questions that leave you stressed. So, we have compiled a list of questions and advises you should ignore when pregnant.

1. So, when are you leaving your job?

This questions comes up even before the symptoms of pregnancy appear. Everybody just assumes that you’re going to leave your job and stay at home now. Don’t let people’s expectations get the best of you. Leaving or continuing should be your decision.

2. You should relax.

You will get it more often that you can imagine. You understand the importance of some rest better than others. But, relaxing is not that easy when you’re pregnant so, shut these advices and do it at your pace.

3. Be happy! You’re going to be a mother.

No, you need to embrace your emotions. A lot of women don’t feel happy throughout their pregnancy. Accepting the hormonal, physical and emotional changes take time. So, don’t let anyone make you feel bad about not being happy all the time.

4. Are you scared? *a scary pregnancy story follows*

You do not need to worry more than you already do. Scary pregnancy stories are inevitable. The best you can do is to turn a deaf ear and keep yourself away from all the negativity.

5. You should start eating for two.

Eat as much as you like. But, don’t be pressured to double your appetite. A growing baby only needs 350 additional calories. The key to a healthy pregnancy is staying fit.

6. Your social life will end when the baby arrives.

A baby is not the end of your social life. You can still have fun and enjoy your life the way you want. Do not listen to people who say so.

These were few things that you should turn a deaf ear to. When you are pregnant; you just need to take the whole journey as it flows. We wish you a happy and safe pregnancy!

Is It Normal To Get Your Period During Pregnancy?

Posted on February 4, 2019May 15, 2024 by admin

You take a pregnancy test and it’s positive! All the signs of pregnancy that you were doubtful about, now make complete sense.

But then, you spot blood. Is it your periods?

Is it normal to get periods when you’re pregnant?

Well, these questions are not as uncommon as you might think. A fair percentage of women experience vaginal bleeding or light spotting in their first trimester.

But, to answer the question; no, you cannot have your periods during pregnancy.

During early pregnancy, women experience spotting that is implantation bleeding. Implantation is the process where the fertilized egg gets implanted in the uterus. But, this happens a while before you take the pregnancy test.

So, what can be the reason of bleeding when you’ve already got a positive result in your pregnancy test?

The first thing to keep in mind here is the amount of blood. A lot of women experience spotting during their early pregnancy.

Spotting refers to a few drops of blood; that you would not need a pad for while bleeding refers to blood flow that is heavy enough to require wearing a pad. If you bleed during the first trimester, you should wear a panty liner or a pad so that you are able to get an idea of the amount of bleeding. The next step should obviously be to talk to your health-care professional.

Another reason for bleeding can be changes in the cervix. The production of hormones during pregnancy can cause changes to the cervix; making it softer and more prone to bleeding. Other major reasons for bleeding during pregnancy can be cervical infection, growths in the cervix or inflamed cervix.

Many women who experience bleeding during pregnancy go on to have normal births without complications. However, bleeding during pregnancy should be treated as a concern and should be brought to your doctor’s attention. Furthermore, you must also take a note of physician symptoms such as cramping, fever, contractions, or chills.

There is no alternative for a doctor’s advice. So, do not ignore anything no matter how insignificant it might seem. We wish you a healthy and safe pregnancy!

Things To Know Before You Take Home Pregnancy Test

Posted on January 9, 2019May 15, 2024 by admin

Home Pregnancy Test

If you believe in Google diagnosis then, Early pregnancy symptoms can be very confusing. Look it up, the list of symptoms will have nausea, mood swings, cramps and back pain; which is typically same as what women feel during the onset of their periods as well.

So, that is not something you can put your 100% faith in, which leaves women with one and the only solution i.e. taking a pregnancy test.

Now there are a few pointers that you should know before taking an early pregnancy test which we will discuss through the course of this blog.

1. Beware of fake tests

Like any other medical test, choosing a reliable method is of utmost importance. You cannot put your trust in a home pregnancy test that has chances of giving your wrong results.

Prega News is the most reliable pregnancy detection brand in the market and you can trust it with closed eyes.

2. Expensive doesn’t mean effective

A lot of times women buy the most expensive home pregnancy kits because they assure effectiveness. Well, let us break your bubble here. Expensive doesn’t mean effective. A digital detection kit is not going to be more effective than a normal test kit and neither is the one you pay the most for.

Most pregnancy kits work on the same mechanics of detecting hCG hormone in your urine. So, it all comes down to your personal preference.

3. Timing is the key

Ladies, Timing matters here.

A pregnancy test kit will only show the correct result when it is taken at the right time. And, the right time to take a test is a day or after you miss your periods. Because that is when the level of hCG in your body is at a detectable level. Also, the hCG level is also at its peak in the morning making it the best time to take the test.

4. False negative is a thing

If you take the test too early in your cycle then, you should expect to get a false negative. As we said earlier, timing matters a lot here. Please keep this in mind when taking a home pregnancy test. If you still have doubts after the first test then, you can just take a test after a couple of days to confirm the result.

Taking a pregnancy test early in the course ensures that you have ample time to think about the further course of action. After all, pregnancy is a not a child’s play. There are a lot of things to be sorted after you receive your positive result. If you have already got a positive result in your pregnancy test then, you can explore our website to know more about pregnancy related stuff. In the meanwhile, we wish you happy motherhood!

Ovulation Test: Everything you need to know about

Posted on January 9, 2019May 15, 2024 by admin

You take a home pregnancy test and it’s positive!

You’re on the seventh cloud and excitement of becoming a mother fills you up to the bones.

Well, that is not exactly how it works for a lot of couples. Conceiving a baby requires a lot of planning, continuous efforts and tracking your ovulation cycle religiously.

Now coming to ovulation; thanks to technology and modern times, we have ovulation test that makes the whole process a lot easier. So, if you’re stuck in the vicious cycle of trying and testing then here’s a list of things you should know about ovulation tests, pregnancy, and fertility in general.

The Term Ovulation:

As you already know, ovulation is the process where your body releases an egg which is further fertilized by a sperm and transforms into a zygote. This process seems easy in theory but there are a lot of mechanics involved that dominate the chances of a pregnancy.

Tests make it easier:

Yes, an ovulation test makes it easier but it is not very difficult to calculate it manually either. Ovulation usually happens around the 14th day of your cycle. So, all you have to do is calculate the 14th day from the day of your first period and voila! That’s approximately the date of your ovulation.

Know the basics:

Do you know that a female is born with over a million eggs in her ovaries? But, the release of eggs only starts after your menarche (first period). As you grow older, the quality and quantity of these eggs also deteriorate which leads to the saying that getting pregnant after you cross 35 is difficult. Yes, it is difficult but not impossible.

You can read more about that topic here:

Timing matters:

You should have intercourse when you’re ovulating, right? Wrong!

Intercourse should always come before ovulation as sperms can survive up to 5 days in a female body which increases the chances of pregnancy as compared to coitus done on the day of ovulation.

Learn about your hormones:

Ovulation and the whole process of conceiving are ruled by the hormones in your body. There’s LH (Luteinizing hormone) that peaks before a day or so before the day of your ovulation. Similarly, there are a lot of hormones involved that you should read about to understand the process better.

Investing time:

It is not going to happen in a day or two. Conceiving a baby takes time and efforts. So, you will have to prepared beforehand to invest a lot of time and research to get it right.

Seek help:

Consulting a gynecologist doesn’t mean there’s something wrong with your body. But, making sure that you seek consultation in time is of utter importance. So, do not be shy and seek help because time is a ruling factor here.

So, these were all the points that you should know about ovulation beforehand. Follow these and we hope the next time you take a pregnancy test, it brings you good news.