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Pregnancy Tests: How They Work & What to Expect

Posted on January 19, 2023March 14, 2024 by admin

Gone are the days of detecting a pregnancy through cravings, fainting spells or bouts of nausea. While these markers can be physical effects of pregnancy but now, as soon as women miss their periods or suspect being pregnant— they can just take an at-home pregnancy test without any discomfort or get their doctor to prescribe blood or a urine test.

What is a pregnancy test?

By looking for a specific hormone in your urine or blood, a pregnancy test can determine if you are pregnant. Human chorionic gonadotropin is the name of the hormone (HCG). After a fertilized egg implants in the uterus, HCG is produced in the mother’s placenta. Normally, it is only produced during pregnancy.

About a week after you have missed a period, the HCG hormone can be detected in urine during a pregnancy test. The test can be carried out either at a doctor’s office or at home using a test kit. Since these tests are almost identical, many women decide to do a home pregnancy test before seeing a healthcare professional. Home pregnancy tests are 97-99 per cent reliable when done appropriately.

A blood test for pregnancy is performed at a doctor’s office. It can confirm or rule out pregnancy earlier than a urine test and detect lower concentrations of HCG. Even before you’ve missed a period, a blood test can identify pregnancy. Blood tests for pregnancy have a 99.9 per cent accuracy rate. The findings of a home pregnancy test are frequently confirmed by a blood test.

Other names: HCG test, human chorionic gonadotropin test

Signs that you should take a pregnancy test

You have missed your period – One of the most obvious signs of a pregnancy is a missed or a very late period. It could be challenging to tell whether you’re late if you don’t constantly monitor your cycle. The average woman’s menstrual cycle lasts 28 days. If it has been more than a month since your last period, think about getting tested.

You feel physically ill – Pregnancy can cause nausea, tiredness, stomach cramps and frequent urination. If you are repeatedly feeling most of these symptoms, it may be a cue for you to take a test.

Your breasts hurt – In order to promote the baby’s growth, estrogen and progesterone, which are produced in increasing amounts throughout pregnancy, begin to alter your body in order to support the growing baby inside of you.

Skipping Contraception Methods– Condoms, birth control pills, and other forms of contraception do not completely prevent conception. In other words, no matter how careful you are, there is always a small possibility of having an unplanned pregnancy.

False test results

Both false positive and false negative pregnancy tests are possible. False negatives happen considerably more frequently than false positives, though. Therefore, if your at-home pregnancy test shows a positive result, you are probably pregnant.

A false negative pregnancy test result is most frequently the consequence of either taking the test too soon or failing to follow the instructions on the label.

When should you take a pregnancy test?

You can take a pregnancy test as soon as you realize your period is significantly late while also feeling the other aforementioned symptoms of pregnancy. The earlier you take the test and find out, the easier it will be to focus on the next steps of the pregnancy. Furthermore, to be more sure, taking a blood test is also a viable option.

Once you get a positive pregnancy result, it is important to stay cautious of the next few steps. First things first, one must decide for themselves if they choose to keep the baby or not. If you choose the former, consult your local doctor, and begin the process of preparing your body for the pregnancy.

Testing early helps to ensure that you get proper care for yourself and, if applicable, prenatal care for your baby. In the event of a positive result, contact your doctor as soon as possible to discuss your options and potential next steps.

A guide to Supplements During Pregnancy

Posted on January 19, 2023March 14, 2024 by admin

While pregnancy is a beautiful transformation into the journey of motherhood still it can be extremely overwhelming for expectant mothers. With multiple diets, exercises and medicines available for pregnant women, it can get extremely confusing— especially when it comes to the health of their unborn baby. However, it doesn’t have to be confusing when it comes to choosing the right vitamins and supplements.

To begin with, your baby gets all the necessary nutrients from you during pregnancy. So you may need more essential nutrients to fuel your body than you did before pregnancy.

Why take supplements during pregnancy?

Macronutrient intake needs to increase significantly during pregnancy. Macronutrients comprise carbohydrates, proteins, and fats. Vitamins, minerals, and trace elements are also more important than macronutrients.

It can be a challenge for many, as only a few can succeed a well-planned, nutrient-dense diet.

This calls for a need to take vitamin & mineral supplements during pregnancy for various reasons, including:

Nutrient deficiencies: Some people may require additional supplements if the blood tests indicate a deficiency in specific vitamins or minerals. Correcting deficiencies is crucial, as a shortage of nutrients like folate has been linked to various birth defects.

Hyperemesis gravidarum: Characterised by severe nausea & vomiting, this pregnancy complication can lead to drastic weight loss & nutrient deficiencies.

Dietary restrictions: Some people follow specific diets which restricts their intake of necessary nutrients. Moreover, people with food intolerances & allergies may need timely vitamin & mineral supplements to prevent micronutrient deficiencies.

Multiple pregnancies: Women bearing more than one child have higher micronutrient needs as compared to the women carrying one child. In this case, supplementation often becomes necessary to ensure optimal nutrition for both the mother & her child.

Genetic mutations like MTHFR: Methylenetetrahydrofolate reductase (MTHFR) is a gene that converts folate into a form that the body can use. Pregnant women experiencing this gene mutation may need to supplement their bodies with a specific form of folate to avoid complications.

Poor nutrition: Women who eat insufficient amounts of food or choose foods that are low in nutrients may need additional vitamin & mineral supplements to avoid deficiencies.

Based on your personal circumstances, you must be prepared to take on the task of adding supplements to your daily routine if & when advised by your healthcare provider.

Are supplements considered safe during pregnancy?

Just like medications, your doctor should approve & supervise all micronutr

ient & herbal supplements to ensure that they’re necessary & taken in safe amounts.

Prenatal vitamins

These multivitamins are designed to meet the increased demand for micronutrients during pregnancy. They are advised to be taken before conception, during pregnancy & breastfeeding.

These multivitamins may help prevent gaps by providing extra micronutrients. As prenatal vitamins contain all the essential nutrients, taking additional supplements may not be necessary.

Woman holding prenatal vitamins - Prega Hope

Folate

This B vitamin is crucial for DNA synthesis, red blood cell production, and foetal development. Folate supplementation becomes necessary for women who don’t consume enough folate rich-foods.

Iron

Iron is crucial for oxygen transport & healthy development of your baby & the placenta. The need for iron increases significantly during pregnancy, as maternal blood volume increases by 45 per cent.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is crucial for immune function, bone health & cell division. This deficiency during pregnancy has links to an increased risk of caesarean section, preeclampsia, preterm birth, and gestational diabetes.

Magnesium

Magnesium plays a vital role in immune, muscle, & nerve functions. Magnesium deficiency during pregnancy may increase the risk of chronic hypertension & premature labour. Supplementing with magnesium may reduce the risk of pregnancy complications like preterm birth.

Choline

Choline is instrumental in the early development of your child’s brain & helps prevent abnormalities of the brain and spine.

Woman saying no to unnecessary supplements during pregnancy

Supplements to avoid during pregnancy

While supplementing with some micronutrients and herbs is safe for pregnant women, many of these supplements should be avoided altogether. They include;

● Vitamin A

● Vitamin E

● Black cohosh

● Goldenseal

● Dong Quai

● Yohimbe

FAQs

What is the most important supplement during pregnancy?

All nutrients are important, but there are six crucial ones that play a key role in your baby’s growth and development during pregnancy, namely folic acid, iron, calcium, vitamin D, DHA, & iodine.

Which supplement is best for early pregnancy?

In order to grow and develop properly, the cells in your body require folic acid. Folic acid is beneficial before and during early pregnancy in preventing brain and spine defects known as neural tube defects (NTDs).

When should I start taking pregnancy supplements?

You should start consuming pregnancy supplements as soon as possible, as major development happens in the first trimester. The spinal cord & brain are developing, so pregnancy supplements help with that.

In addition to the myths & inaccuracies that revolve around this subject matter, critical information on which supplements are safe & which aren’t varies depending on the pregnancy stage. This can make things feel even more complicated. But don’t panic. We’ve got you covered! The article discusses which supplements are considered safe during pregnancy & which should be avoided.

Additionally, it’s recommended that all pregnant women must take a prenatal vitamin & folic acid supplement. It’s solely advised to fill nutritional gaps & prevent developmental abnormalities at birth like ventricular septal defect, spina bifida, congenital heart disease, etc.

Ensure that you purchase supplements from a reputable brand that has their product evaluated by third party organisations like the Central Drugs Standard Control Organisation (CDSCO).

This certifies that the vitamins adhere to specific standards set by the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare & are generally safe to consume.

If you aren’t iron deficient, you should avoid taking more than the recommended intake of iron as it may have adverse side effects.

If you’ve done your research in this domain/sphere, you would already be aware of the fact that high mercury seafood, alcohol, & cigarettes are off-limits during pregnancy. What’s even more surprising is that some vitamins, minerals, & herbal supplements should be kept at arm’s length.

The ultimate guide to Choosing a best Gynaecologist Doctor with the best qualities

Posted on December 14, 2022March 14, 2024 by admin

Finding the best gynaecologist near you can be the most reassuring thing you can do before setting foot in the pregnancy phase. Every woman should be cautious and selective while choosing a gynaecologist for pregnancy as it is expected to discuss all the ins & outs of your reproductive health with your gynaecologist, whether they are related to your pregnancy or just a basic question about reproduction. However, it might be difficult to select the best gynaecologist, so you should bear some things in mind. To learn more about what to consider while picking a gynaecologist during pregnancy, read this article

Tips to find the Best Gynecologist

Ask for referrals:
Request recommendations from people you know first, making sure they come highly recommended.

Read reviews:

When you have a few names in mind, check out their Google reviews. Take into account the crucial elements, such as appointments, the working atmosphere, wait times, and employee conduct. It’s not a big concern if there are a few unfavourable reviews among numerous nice ones.

Research Hospital Quality:

Since you will be the one visiting the hospital frequently, you should pick one with a strong reputation. Patients at top-rated hospitals have a lower risk of problems.

These are a few pointers that you need to consider before starting the search for your gynaecologist. Now that we know the ‘how’, let’s look at the ‘why’

Reasons to see a gynaecologist

Bleeding:

Early pregnancy bleeding is typically normal. However, if it’s accompanied by cramping, it can be a sign of something more serious. In case of emergency bleeding, it is suggested to consult your gynaecologist immediately.

Severe Headache:

Consult your gynaecologist if you have a severe headache, especially one that is accompanied by dizziness. These symptoms may occur because of dehydration, hence, it is suggested to maintain adequate fluids to have a balanced diet.

Excessive Vomiting

Morning sickness, nausea, and vomiting are common pregnancy symptoms experienced by a majority of women. However, if vomiting is accompanied by fever and pain, it may be a sign of something serious, hence, do consult your gynaecologist ogy on an immediate basis.

Decreased Fetal Movement

It is advised to monitor your baby’s movements multiple times a day. Do not hesitate to consult your gynaecologist if you are unable to feel any movement.

Postpartum care:

You might think it’s time to stop seeing your gynaecologist after your child is born, but that’s not how things work. Gynaecologists are the ones who can respond to your inquiries and especially if you require post-natal or postpartum guidance.

Hence, above mentioned pointers answer, why should you consult a gynaecologist for pregnancy. This brings us to the part where we cover what to consider when looking for a gynaecologist

Things to look for when searching for a Gynecologist

Friendly and Affectionate

The gynaecologist should be approachable and willing to address any queries you may have. You’re more inclined to discuss your issues with your doctor when you feel at ease.

Good Reputation

You have to be particular about the standards of the doctor you choose because you will be disclosing some private information with them regarding your body and general health.

Distance

Gynaecologists should be near your house, this comes in handy in case of emergency. When you are in your third trimester, going into labour will be considerably simpler with a gynaecologist nearby.

Easy Availability

You should also consider the selected gynaecologist’s availability in order to reach them or contact them during an emergency.

FAQs

What problems does a gynaecologist treat?

A gynaecologist is a medical professional who specialises in the female reproductive system. They deal with a variety of concerns, including high-risk pregnancies, problems with fertility, hormonal imbalances, issues with labour-delivery, typical problems during pregnancy and many others. If you experience any strange symptoms during your pregnancy, we advise that you speak with your gynaecologist.

Why would you need to see a gynaecologist?

While you’re pregnant, it is advised to visit your gynaecologist so that they can assist in monitoring your health and ensure that everything is going well. When you’re pregnant, you might need to visit a gynaecologist for the following reasons:

To confirm your pregnancy
To discuss prenatal care & necessities
To receive an ultrasound and other prenatal tests

What questions should you ask a gynaecologist?

There can be a variety of questions based on the situation. In case of emergencies, many serious and medical questions will be asked, however, when everything is normal you should ask the below questions that will keep you aware throughout the pregnancy.

What is the best diet for pregnant women?
What are the foods to avoid during pregnancy?
What exercises can I do during my pregnancy?
Are my prescription medications safe to continue during pregnancy?
How can I relieve my pregnancy symptoms (fatigue, morning sickness)?
When should I start sleeping on my side?

The list of questions may continue but it is always advised to consult your gynaecologist in case of doubts or queries during your pregnancy.

Conclusion

An essential element of your healthcare during your pregnancy is your gynaecologist. It is advised to choose a trusted professional with experience as they will oversee a sizable portion of your treatment and see you for regular check ups. You should be picky about a few characteristics while selecting a gynaecologist if you want to receive the best service. An effective gynaecologist should be knowledgeable and make you feel at ease and secure. Finding the ideal gynaecologist for you can be aided by getting recommendations and being aware of the correct things to ask. To conclude, it is advised to keep the above-shared points in mind when searching for your ideal gynaecologist

10 Things to do for a safe pregnancy and a healthy baby

Posted on December 5, 2022March 14, 2024 by admin

Every woman and couple, for that matter, experiences a heartwarming moment when they receive their good news of pregnancy. From then onwards, it becomes crucial to take care of yourself in order to have a safe pregnancy and a healthy baby. Hence, it is always advised to stay connected with your gynaecologist to determine what will work best for your pregnancy. However, here in this blog, we will unwrap the things that needs to be done for a safe pregnancy and a healthy baby.

How to maintain a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy

A healthy lifestyle is important for you and your baby. Below are some tips that will help you to maintain a healthy lifestyle:

Take prenatal vitamins: You should start taking prenatal vitamins as soon as you know you’re pregnant. They help in maintaining a healthy lifestyle and provides nourishment to your baby as well.
Exercise regularly: Being active can reduce stress, it helps in improving blood circulation, and boosts your mood as well. It is suggested to aim for at least a minimum of 15 to 30 minutes of exercise every day but make sure you don’t overdo it.
Eliminate Toxins: The first and most important thing you should do while pregnant is to stop using toxic substances like tobacco, alcohol, and even nail polish remover as they are bad for your baby.
Focus on healthy eating: Limit your intake of processed and junk food because they are bad for you and your baby. However, grain, fruit, and vegetable should be among the main ingredients of your meals.
Manage your stress: Due to hormonal changes, you may have a tendency to feel stressed and emotionally charged while pregnant. Making the above-discussed lifestyle modifications will help you reduce your stress.

Things you need to consult fromyour gynaecologist during your pregnancy

Throughout your pregnancy, there are numerous issues that you should discuss with your gynaecologist. Some of the most crucial are listed below:

Health history: For your gynaecologist to fully understand any potential hazards of your pregnancy, your health history is crucial. Hence, it is suggested to let your gynaecologist know about your health history.
Lifestyle: This aids your gynaecologist in comprehending your lifestyle and way of life. Diet, exercise, and alcohol use are just a few factors that can affect your pregnancy.
Weight Management:During your pregnancy, you should try to gain a healthy amount of weight. Therefore, it’s crucial to check in with your gynaecologist to track your weight gain and make sure you’re on the right road.
Stages of pregnancy: Understanding how your body responds to each stage of pregnancy will be useful. Knowing the emotions and sentiments that could change during pregnancy is also beneficial.

FAQs

How can I keep my baby safe in early pregnancy?

There are several things you can do to keep your baby safe in early pregnancy. First, it is important to avoid any activities that could put you at risk of falling or being injured as it will cause harm to you or your baby. Second, you should avoid alcohol, tobacco, and drugs as these substances can harm your baby’s development. Finally, it is important to eat a healthy diet and get plenty of rest. By following these tips, you can keep your baby safe during early pregnancy.

What are the most important things to do while pregnant?

Many things are important to do while pregnant, but some of the most important things include:

Eating a healthy diet: Eating a healthy diet is important for both you and your baby. Make sure to eat plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains. Avoid processed foods and sugary drinks.
Getting regular exercise: Exercise is important for your overall health during your pregnancy. It can help in improving your mood, reduce stress, and increase energy levels.
Getting enough sleep: Sleep is essential for you as well as your baby’s health. Sleeping in time helps you to gain energy for the next day.

How to taking care of yourself and your baby during pregnancy time?

Pregnancy is an exciting time for everyone, and it’s important to take care of yourself and your baby during this special time.

Focus on eating well
Take your vitamins
Exercise regularly
Get proper rest
Say no to alcohol
Limit your caffeine intake
Manage stress

Conclusion

There are many things that expectant mothers can do to ensure a safe pregnancy and a healthy baby. First and foremost, it is important to consult your gynaecologist regularly throughout the pregnancy to receive proper guidance. Additionally, pregnant women should eat a nutritious diet, get regular exercise, avoid harmful substances, and get adequate rest. By following these simple tips, expectant mothers can improve their chances of having a safe and healthy pregnancy.

5 Ways Your Second Pregnancy May Be Different From Your First

Posted on November 25, 2022March 14, 2024 by admin

Pregnancy 1 vs Pregnancy 2:

You need to brace yourself for a new set of pregnancy symptoms that you didn’t see the first time. There may be several first and second pregnancy differences. Expecting mothers may have severe morning sickness during the first but have no such symptoms during the second.

Physical Symptoms.

The physical manifestations of pregnancy, such as the feelings of heaviness, fullness, and contractions, tend to appear roughly a month earlier in a second pregnancy than they did in the first. This is due to the uterus and ligaments stretching before, but it is also due to your heightened awareness of the sensations. While this may sound painful, other benefits include detecting your baby’s fetal movements roughly a month earlier.

Exhaustion Levels.

Many women report that their exhaustion levels increase with each subsequent pregnancy. Few studies have been conducted on the topic, and the results are contradictory: some find that women are substantially more exhausted the second time around, while others find the opposite.

The Degree of Discomfort.

Your abdominal and uterine muscles will be loosened because they stretch during your first pregnancy. In other words, they don’t have the same degree of ‘staying power’ and your bump will appear much earlier than the first time around. This can also result in pelvic discomfort, which will necessitate more frequent trips to the bathroom to empty your bladder.

Stretch Marks.

It’s also possible to have stretch marks during your second pregnancy or see them return because you may carry your baby lower than you did the first time. If you want to reduce the visibility of stretch marks and reveal restored, revitalized, and visibly smoother skin, use a cream or moisturizer daily This will reduce the likelihood of stretch marks appearing during pregnancy.

The Silver Lining

Many women who have once given birth are more alert to and likely to notice the early indications of pregnancy a second time around. The good news is that common discomforts like nausea and breast pain may be less acute the second time around. Whether it is your first or second, every pregnancy is unique in its own way. PregaNews will bring you the good news each time and you can journey your way through nine months to add a new member to your family.

Self-Care Ideas After Miscarriage

Posted on November 25, 2022October 23, 2023 by admin

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.

Tips For Recovery After A Difficult Labour/Pregnancy

Posted on November 25, 2022March 14, 2024 by admin

The postpartum period, which follows the delivery, is associated with many new signs and concerns.

After what felt like an eternity (40 weeks) of pregnancy and countless hours of labor, you are now a mother. Congratulations! After months of planning and preparation, you’ve welcomed your little bundle of joy and now begins the process of returning back to normalcy after the pregnancy.

You might not feel 100% when it comes to your body and your hormone levels may also be a bit erratic. But don’t give in to the frustration and remember that your body is not privy to your schedule or goals. Your best bet is to take some time off, pamper yourself and eat well.

When does childbirth become challenging?

Birth difficulties, such as an aided delivery, perineal tears, or inadequate pain relief throughout labour, can be highly stressful for the mother and infant. Nonetheless, some women give birth ‘normally’ but experience emotional discomfort. It’s also possible for two people to share the same experience but react very differently to it.

Whatever may be the reason, you need to remember that you are not alone if you suffer anxiety about giving birth. Many other parents can relate to this. The doctors and nurses at your facility will be able to help you.

Doctor holding women hand & Assisting after difficult labour and pregnancy

The Body: What to Anticipate?

It’s essential to tune into your body for the first six weeks. Although you will be exhausted and preoccupied with your new baby, it is necessary to pay attention to the changes in your body.

Stay away from the urge to overdo it when your health improves. You may slow your recovery if you try to accomplish too much too soon. Focus on getting adequate rest, hydrating well and follow a healthy diet. If you’ve had a cesarean section then you should expect to have more limitations placed on your daily activities for the first few weeks after giving birth, which includes doing any kind of strenuous physical activity.

What to expect throughout your postpartum recovery?

● Breast pain- You may have painful engorgement and sensitive nipples when your milk comes in for several days.

● Constipation- Acute Hemorrhoids, healed episiotomies and tight muscles can make the first bowel movement after birth a painful experience.

● Episiotomy- Your ability to sit or walk may be temporarily impaired by the discomfort caused by the stitches in your perineum (the skin between the vagina and the anus) if it was cut by your doctor or ripped during birth. During the recovery period, it may also hurt to cough or sneeze.

● Hot and Cold Flashes – When your body adjusts to a change in hormone and blood flow levels, it might throw off your internal thermostat.

● Defecation or urinary incontinence-Suppose you had long labour before giving birth vaginally. In that case, the straining of your muscles at the time of delivery might make it challenging to regulate your bowel movements or cause you to leak urine when you laugh, cough or strain.

● Vaginal discharge (lochia) – The vaginal discharge will be heavier than your period and may contain clots initially, but it will lighten to white or yellow and stop within a few weeks.

● Weight – You are likely to lose 6–9 Kg of water weight in the first week after giving birth as your body regains equilibrium from carrying a baby, a placenta and amniotic fluid

● Hormonal Fluctuations – Many pregnant women have hair loss because of hormonal shifts. Things will return to normal soon. Your hair’s natural thickness will return once your estrogen levels are normal.

How to recuperate?

Try Kegel Exercises.

Regular Kegel exercises strengthen your pelvic floor, allowing you to enjoy giggling without worrying about wetting your trousers. Boosting vaginal muscular tone aids in the maintenance of urinary continence and enhances the enjoyment of sexual activity. When the sphincter muscles are strong, you won’t have to worry about an unexpected bowel movement. Consult your doctor before starting.

Lessen Discomfort.

The perineum needs your assistance in healing. For the first 24 hours after giving birth, icing your perineum every two hours is recommended. Before and after you urinate, spray the area with warm water to prevent urine from aggravating the wound. Take warm sitz baths for 20 minutes daily. If you can, try to avoid prolonged periods of standing or sitting, and try to sleep on your side.

C-section Care.

Once a day, gently wash your C-section wound with soap and water. Apply antibiotic ointment after drying the damage with a clean towel. Consult your doctor if you’re unsure whether to keep the wound covered or open. Until your doctor gives you the go-light, you should hold off on strenuous exercise.

Stay Physically Active.

Whether you gave birth vaginally or via cesarean section, you shouldn’t engage in strenuous exercise for at least the first several weeks after giving birth. However, after consulting with your doctor, you can take small walks and strolls. Walking aids digestion, relieves constipation, increases circulation and promotes healing.

Sleep To Heal.

Sleep is critical to your physical and emotional health and can aid you in coping with the challenges of parenting. Try to get some rest when your baby does.

Follow your doctor’s advice, have the right diet and keep yourself physically and emotionally fit to enjoy the beautiful journey of parenthood.

Why Do I Have A Dark Line On My Tummy?

Posted on November 25, 2022March 15, 2024 by admin

During pregnancy, many women notice the appearance of a dark, vertical line on their stomachs known as the linea nigra, commonly known as the ‘pregnancy line’. It begins at the navel and extends down, towards the abdomen. You may notice a darker linea nigra as your pregnancy progresses, and those of us with darker skin tones are more likely to see it.

Where does the linea nigra appear?

Usually, the linea nigra is located between the pubic bone and the top of the umbilicus (belly button), but it can go as high as the chest. Typically, its width ranges from a quarter to a half of an inch. As you ascend, you could notice a gradual brightening. It could also be a different color than what you often see in pregnant women. These differences are normal and not a cause for worry.

Around the fifth month of pregnancy, many women notice the line. There are instances when it appears as though out of nowhere. The pregnancy line tends to deepen for most women as their bellies grow.

When does the linea nigra show up?

The linea nigra, a result of increased hormone levels, becomes visible sometime after the end of the first trimester and the beginning of the second trimester. This line is present on the stomach, but in the form of a white line and is known as linea alba. During pregnancy, the linea alba transforms into the linea nigra.

Pregnant Women having dark lines on the stomach

Why does the linea nigra form?

The development of a black line on your stomach, during pregnancy, may result from increased melanin (the substance responsible for giving your skin pigment) production, brought on by pregnancy hormones. Linea nigra affects people of all skin tones, though it often shows up more clearly in individuals with lighter complexions.

Higher than normal levels of hormones like estrogen and melanocyte-stimulating hormones influence the cells that produce melanin, thereby affecting the visibility of the black line on your stomach.

How does one describe the linea nigra?

From the pubic bone to the umbilicus, the linea nigra narrows from 1/4 to 1/2 inch. Sometimes it goes all the way up to the bust area. It’s darker than your skin tone, looking brown or even black. Your linea nigra has the same width from the top to the bottom as it does at the top. Neither your pregnancy nor your skin would be affected by this.

When does one stop seeing the linea nigra?

When your hormone levels normalize after pregnancy, so does the linea nigra. As hormone levels recover to their pre-pregnancy levels, most women will notice a gradual disappearance of the effect within the first few months after giving birth. There is some variation in timing from woman to woman.

Is there a treatment for linea nigra?

Other than giving birth, there isn’t much you can (or should) do to get rid of it. Medication and lotions are often not recommended by doctors. Please check with your physician if your worries persist. Avoid doing anything that can cause your skin any discomfort.

Applying some fresh lemon juice to your skin is an all-natural alternative. that can help remove hyperpigmentation. Remember, though, that the pregnancy line will fade away after you give birth.

Can I prevent a line from appearing on my tummy if I am not pregnant?

You can’t avoid the pregnancy line because it’s linked to your hormone levels. However, there are measures you can take to lessen its appearance.

Put on sunscreen.

The Ultraviolet (UV) rays present in sunlight amplify color alterations. Even on cloudy days, it’s essential to apply and reapply a broad-spectrum sunscreen (one that blocks both UVA and UVB rays) with an SPF of at least 30. This holds true regardless of the shade of your skin.

Never wax.

Inflammation of the skin caused by waxing can exacerbate melasma, especially in areas of the body where pigmentation changes are prevalent.

Skin allergies.

If you suffer from skin allergies, it’s recommended that you use hypoallergenic skin care products. Inflammatory skin care products, such as soaps and moisturizers, may exacerbate melasma.

How Much Water Should You Drink During Pregnancy?

Posted on November 24, 2022March 15, 2024 by admin

Pregnancy is a beautiful phase for the couple as well as their families. As blissful it is to carry and make a baby with your beloved, it is equally important to take care of the lady carrying the baby in all aspects- emotionally, physically and mentally. A small but very important part of it is staying hydrated throughout the day.

The Importance Of Drinking Water In Pregnancy

Drinking water and staying hydrated is all the more important during pregnancy due to many reasons. Water helps in building amniotic fluid around your baby, flushing out toxins from your body along with flushing out any bacteria when you pee that might be trying to creep in. It also produces extra blood, carries nutrients, creates new tissues, enhances digestion etc.

Pregnant women with a glass of water - How much should you drink?

Water circulating in the body also helps in keeping you fresh and less exhausted than usual.

The question that arises is how much water to drink during pregnancy in the entire day? Doctors suggest that you drink at least 8-12 glasses of water per day during pregnancy. This ensures that the baby is healthy and is developing the way it should.

pregnant women drinking water to stay hydrated after workout

Benefits Of Staying Hydrated During Pregnancy

Our bodies naturally require an adequate amount of water to function properly. But during a pregnancy, fulfilling this requirement becomes twice as important for ensuring the health and well-being of the mother and her child. Besides quenching the thirst, hydration has a lot of other benefits for pregnant women. These include:

● Proper transportation of oxygen and nutrients throughout the body

● Decreasing the risk of constipation, UTIs (Urinary Tract Infections) and hemorrhoids

● Maintaining the body temperature

● Reducing nausea, heartburn and swelling

Is It Normal To Drink A Lot Of Water During Pregnancy?

It is absolutely normal to feel extra thirsty during a pregnancy. Just like an increase in the intake of calories and nutrients, the water intake of the body also goes up while a woman is pregnant. An adequate intake of water also prevents dehydration, which can lead to headches, joint pains, cramping and dizziness in pregnant women.

FAQs

How Do I Know If I Am Drinking Enough Water While Pregnant?

There are various signs that serve as a warning to let you know about the lack of hydration in your body. These include:

● Maternal overheating

● Dark yellow urine

● Excessive sleepiness

● Decreased need to pee

● Feeling dizzy

● Feeling constipated

● Headaches

● Dry mouth

If you are facing one or more of the above symptoms, you need to take a good look at your water levels.

How Much Water Should A Pregnant Woman Drink A Day?

Doctors recommend drinking 8-12 glasses of water in a single day. Apart from this, it is advised to start your day with a glass or two of water. Followed by drinking two glasses of water with lunch and dinner, and taking regular sips of water during the day. Hydration can also be achieved by drinks like lime water, coconut water, smoothies, milk and herbal teas (based on the doctor’s advice).

What Happens If I Don’t Drink Enough Water While Pregnant?

There are several issues that can crop up due to inadequate hydration. Drinking less than the required amount of water can:

● Induce preterm labor

● Reduce the amount of amniotic fluid that your baby needs in the womb, thereby affecting your baby’s growth.

● Cause dehydration

● Result in fatigue and exhaustion

Once you receive the good news with Prega News, make sure that you keep your body adequately hydrated with water and other fluids, along with following a healthy and active lifestyle. Prega News wishes you a healthy pregnancy and a blissful journey of motherhood ahead of you.

How To Get Relief From Leg Swelling During Pregnancy

Posted on November 24, 2022March 15, 2024 by admin

Pregnancy is a beautiful but often trying time for the couple. The bliss of having a baby with your loved one is a great feeling but the period often comes with many difficulties such as nausea, morning sickness, unable to eat much, swelling in legs etc. and these are just a few of the many problems that the couple faces.

Swelling in legs is a very common problem during the period of pregnancy. It happens due to various reasons. It is preventable and treatable and is not considered to be a big problem although it does cause discomfort.

Read on to know everything about swelling in legs during pregnancy.

What Is Leg Swelling?

Leg swelling can occur in any part of the legs which include feet, calves, thighs, ankles etc. It can result from water retention or due to injury and inflammation.

It also happens when the growing womb creates pressure on the body of the pregnant woman and affects the blood flow which leads to retention of fluids in the ankles and thus swelling! The lLack of physical activity and sitting for long hours with legs in a single position for the long duration results in swelling in legs too.

Methods To Reduce Leg Swelling

Although with time, the swelling reduces on its own but, you can try the following to ensure you don’t have swelling in legs anymore:

Pregnant woman doing physical activity to reduce swelling

Pregnant women consuming water to reduce swelling

Wear comfortable socks and shoes

● Avoid wearing tight clothes straps

● Avoid standing and/or sitting for too long

● Drink as much water as you can- this will help flush out the toxins as well as excess water from the body.

● Elevate your legs as much as possible.

● Take rest

● Go for massages

● Go for foot exercises- these will ensure blood flow to the legs therefore reducing the swelling

● Go for walks- short walks in intervals during the whole day allows for a great blood circulation in the body and helps in keeping the pregnant woman in better fitness and health.

When Do Feet Swell During Pregnancy

Pregnancy causes a hormonal surge in the body of a pregnant woman. This leads to many outcomes like the baby’s growth , providing nutrition to the baby. growing bump, growing uterus etc. A pregnant woman gets swelling in legs due to water retention, standing up or even sitting for longer durations, not drinking enough water, growing in the womb which causes pressure on the pregnant woman and affects blood flow in the body leading to retention of the fluids in the legs.

Swelling also occurs due to hot and humid weather which leads to water retention and exhaustion in the body.

FAQs

How can I reduce swelling in my legs during pregnancy?

Leg swelling in pregnancy is a very common phenomenon. Pregnant ladies can’t work out as quickly as normal ones which affect the blood flow in their body and leads to fluid retention in their ankles, feet, calves, thighs etc.

Swelling can be reduced by:

● Walking more often

● Not sitting or standing for long hours

● Taking rest as and when you see there is swelling

● Drinking at least 8 glasses of water in a day so that the excess water is removed from the body

What causes a pregnant woman’s leg to swell?

Swelling in legs and feet during pregnancy is caused by several factors some of which are as follows:

● Standing or sitting for long hours

● Water retention in the ankles

● Not taking proper sleep or rest

● Hot and humid weather causes swelling too

● Growing a baby puts pressure on the body of the female which affects blood flow to the legs.

Is it okay to have swelling during pregnancy?

Pregnancy is a very beautiful time period of a couple’s life. It sees a surge of hormones in the female’s body which causes several positive changes in her such as beautiful skin, beautiful hair, glow on the face etc. The same hormonal surge also causes restlessness, breathlessness, nausea etc. One such discomfort that arises is the swelling of legs. Legs hold all the body weight and bear the brunt of daily tasks and activities. When a pregnant woman does tasks by standing up all day or by sitting through the day, she gets swollen legs. Swollen legs are also caused by the growing baby bump which changes the way blood flows to the legs of the mom-to-be.

Pregnant women should take care of their health and well-being once PregaNews confirms the good news. They should make sure to take the necessary steps to reduce leg swelling and ease the feeling of discomfort, else it could impair movement and aggravate the situation.