Severe heartburn, acidity or uncomfortable feeling in the stomach occurring more than twice a week is medically termed as Gastro-Esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD). GERD is so common in pregnant women that according to studies almost 30 – 80% of pregnant women experience it. In fact, data suggests that the majority of pregnant women suffer from acidity in their third trimester even though in others it starts in the first trimester and gradually increases by their third trimester.
The first thing to do for any pregnant women suffering from acidity is to find a way to manage acidity without harming the baby. In order to do so, you need to know about acidity in the first place and what predisposes pregnant women to acidity? So let us learn about it and different ways to manage it safely during pregnancy.
Acidity in pregnancy is commonly due to hormonal changes and the growing baby pressing against the stomach and it is not usually harmful to the baby, avoiding citrus, spicy, oily foods and carbonated drinks goes a long way to prevent acidity.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.
Normally when we eat food it passes from our mouth to stomach through a food pipe called the oesophagus. There is a valve where the food pipe ends and the stomach opens, and it is called the Lower oesophagal sphincter (LES). The LES is a muscular band of tissue (like a rubber band) that opens to allow food to enter the stomach and closes as soon as food enters the stomach. As we already know our stomach produces many juices to digest the food and gastric acid is one of those juices.
When the LES sphincter relaxes without complete closure even after food has entered the stomach, the gastric juices tend to flow back towards the food pipe. These gastric juices (gastric acid) irritate the sensitive lining of the food pipe and as a result, acidity sets in.
Antacidsand Proton Pump Inhibitors like pantaprazole are safe for use in pregnancy, so if life-style modifications fail to manage GERD symptoms, these medications can be added to the antiemetic treatment regimen.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Pregnant women also experience the same symptoms but the severity may vary depending on the trimester and from person to person.
Common symptoms that you may experience when you have acidity include:
Most often pregnant women experience an exacerbation of the symptoms soon after they had food and at bedtime. These symptoms as earlier mentioned may start at any time during pregnancy and may continue to increase.
It is important to note that pregnancy does not cause acidity; it only makes one more susceptible to acidity.
The following are two pregnancy-related contributing factors –
Being pregnant means your body undergoes many hormonal changes to allow the fetus growth and make your body support and maintain it. Some of these hormones make the muscles relax. During the first trimester, the muscles move in a much-relaxed manner like the food pipe pushes the food much slower and the muscles in your stomach also work in a similar fashion in order to facilitate absorption of nutrients and supply them to the growing fetus. But as the food stays in the stomach for a longer time you may feel heartburn.
In the third trimester, in order to accommodate the growing baby, the uterus pushes your stomach way up thus the stomach will be under constant pressure which also results in acidity.
Do not worry as the acidity during pregnancy rarely causes any serious complications. You can either manage the symptoms by following lifestyle changes or with the help of prescribed medications.
Do’s
Don’ts
Many pregnant women suffer from acidity without consulting the doctor as they see it as commonly occurring and consider it as self-limiting. And also they have a strong belief that medications are unsafe for the unborn baby, which is true only to a certain extent. Many medicines are proven to be safe and effective to use under a doctor prescription.
Please do consult your doctor before self-medication especially when you are pregnant. Remember that the below-mentioned medicines are only to build your knowledge and trust.
Also Read: Can You Get Pregnant Without Having Sex? Debunking Pregnancy Myths
If your heartburn refused to go away with home medications, see your doctor. They may prescribe or recommend OTC medications that are safe to take during pregnancy. Heartburn usually disappears following childbirth.
If you take iron supplements, talk to your doctor before you take a PPI or H2 blocker. These medications can make the supplements less effective.
Most pregnant women with mild to moderate severity of acidity can manage it with lifestyle changes. But many have severe symptoms resulting in weight loss, disturbed sleep etc. When the symptoms are very severe and bothersome, compromising and severely affecting the quality of life, it is always better to consult the doctor and seek treatment instead of silently suffering or self-medicating.
Do not think too much about acidity. As already mentioned you are not alone, almost one-quarter of women suffer from acidity during pregnancy. After delivery, your body comes back to normal and your acidity will subside. Many doctors around the world had successfully treated their patients during pregnancy with safe and effective medicines.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
It is estimated that more than 50% of women experience lower back pain during pregnancy or even during their postpartum phase, making it an uncomfortable predicament along with various other ongoing hormonal changes. Although there are several reasons why you might be going through a discomforting back, one evident cause is your growing body weight. This is a positive sign of good health during pregnancy but can take a toll on your body when it continues for a prolonged period.
Pain can be in the pelvic region anteriorly just above the bladder or in the whole pelvic girdle region. Pain can be bilateral, unilateral or can radiate right down to the calves and thighs. Between anterior pelvic pain and posterior pelvic pain, the former is more common amongst women.
A typical cause of lower back pain during pregnancy is when the pelvis joins the spine at the sacroiliac joint.
Alternative means of pain control, including yoga, deep breathing, and acupuncture provide good results.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
A well-developed woman enjoying a healthy pregnancy can expect to put on about 30 to 40 pounds which put additional pressure on the spine in very little time. Additionally, the weight of the baby growing inside the womb and that of the uterus exerts a force on the nerves and blood vessels in the back and pelvis resulting in lower back pain.
At the time of pregnancy, the body releases the hormones like relaxin and progesterone that make the ligaments in the pelvic area relaxed. They help the pelvis region prepare for the birthing process. The very same hormone may have some effect on the lower back region leading to pain and discomfort.
With pregnancy, your tummy starts to grow outwards automatically shifting your centre of gravity. Adjustment in posture and the way you move results in strain and lower back pain.
Emotional stress can also contribute to muscle tension in the backside that can be experienced as back spasms or back pain. During stressful stages of your pregnancy, especially your last trimester, this can increase significantly.
Calcium and vitamin D must be in a healthy range during pregnancy. Deficiency of any or both of these may become a cause of bony pain. Talk to your doctor for the necessary supplements and dietary modifications if found deficient in tests.
Although it is very common to experience low back pain in pregnancy, if it is associated with severe disabling pain and symptoms of nerve compression like tingling and numbness, you should visit an orthopaedic surgeon for a timely diagnosis.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.
Exercise boosts flexibility and strengthens muscles. It can ease the stress on the spine. Safe exercises for back pain during pregnancy are swimming, walking and low impact cycling. You can also practice yoga under the guidance of a certified trainer. The physical therapist or doctor may recommend exercises to further strengthen the abdomen and back.
Slouching puts stress on the spine and further aggravate your back pain. To maintain good posture, use a good quality chair that provides firm support to the back. You can also lean back a little to make room for your growing belly. You may also consider wearing a support belt.
Applying a hot and cold compress to the back may be beneficial. If your doctor gives permission you can use an ice pack wrapped in a towel as a cold compress. Apply this for 20 minutes throughout the day as many times as advised by your doctor. After three days, you may be advised to switch to a heating pad but never apply heat directly to the abdomen area during your pregnancy.
Doing light stretching exercises such as yoga or postpartum pilates under expert supervision can help strengthen the pelvic muscles and back region.
Sitting or standing in one place for long hours can increase back pain, aim to move for a few minutes after every 25 minutes.
To minimise pain surrounding the pelvic region, you can cut down on activities such as running, climbing stairs and supporting your legs with the help of a footstool when sitting or with a pillow under the feet when lying down.
If your lower back pain during pregnancy does not reduce even after following these tips for a few days and if you are very stressed about the pregnancy and or delivery, seek guidance from a professional about the best way forward.
Often incorrect sleeping posture can further enhance body and back pain. To get restful and healthy sleep and wake up fresh the next day, here are a few tips on how to relieve back pain during pregnancy while sleeping:
While we have already enlightened you on what to do here is a quick look at what not to do to increase back pain:
Also Read: Back Fat Exercises: Expert Tips for Effective Workouts
Aside from the do’s and don’ts mentioned above keep an eye out for radiating pain or neurological problems such as numbness or even muscle weakness which might then call for an expert consultation as these qualify under severe back pain during pregnancy. Consult your doctor to understand the right exercises for you during pregnancy.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Pregnancy is a wonderful time for a couple. It also brings with it a variety of new experiences not only because you become a parent but also because a woman’s body goes through a number of physical, emotional and mental changes as it tries to make room for another human in the body. It is a rollercoaster ride and can also be overwhelming and exhausting as you try to process so many new changes in your life.
It is a happy time as you start preparing your nest to bring home a new person. You need to stay positively healthy both in your mind and body so that the 9 months seem like a breeze. However, according to research, about 7% of women tend to feel depressed during pregnancy. And this number saw a surge during the pandemic as 47% of expectant mothers were found to feel depressed and about 60% of pregnant women reported feelings of anxiety.
In this article, let us quickly evaluate how depression is common during pregnancy, why it increased during the pandemic and what can you do to reduce it.
Studies had shown that the rate of anxiety and depression among pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic had raised (20). A review article reported that the anxiety and depressive symptoms were highly prevalent, effecting 58–72% of pregnant women during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Studies have revealed that women are twice as vulnerable to feeling depressed as opposed to men and this condition starts to peak during their reproductive years. The feelings of stress and anxiety are quite common for women during pregnancy. Hormonal changes, morning sickness, sudden increase or decrease in appetite all contribute to both emotional as well as bodily stress. So, how to recognize that you are going through depression? What are the signs?
Persistence of some or all of the following symptoms for more than 2 weeks-
In addition to prenatal depression, most women also tend to experience post-partum depression (PPD) now called peripartum depression. During and after pregnancy women tend to go through a myriad of emotional, physical and behavioural changes.
According to multiple surveys, almost 70 per cent of all new mothers undergo the ‘baby blues’. This is a short-lived condition that does not affect or impair daily activities and no medical treatment is required.
Some of the most common symptoms of ‘baby blues’ include-
Such symptoms usually only last 7-14 days and recede on their own without medication.
Peripartum depression is not the same as ‘baby blues’. Like any form of depression, postpartum depression too wrecks a person emotionally and debilitates a new mother physically. It may continue for many months and medical treatment is highly recommended.
Postpartum/Peripartum depression can be treated over time with counselling and medication.
A study conducted by the University of Essex in the UK found that the COVID-19 pandemic was responsible for increasing the rate of depression and anxiety in pregnant women. A peer review was carried out taking 150 women between April 2020 and January 2021 which is considered the peak time of the pandemic all around the world to come to these conclusions. Although depression as stated above is quite common in women during the prenatal stage and even after delivery, the paper highlighted the fact that the surge in depression rates was due to the fear and trauma experienced by women at the time of the lockdown during the first wave. It also mentioned that women who had a history of clinical depression or had past traumatic experiences were also at the risk of feeling detached from their newborn babies.
Dr. Rigato from the University of Essex thus came to the conclusion that a woman’s experience during pregnancy played a key role in influencing the nature of her bond with her newborn baby. It has also put forward that women who had a negative attitude or negative takeaway about the COVID-19 pandemic were at a higher propensity to feel greater anxiety, depression and mood changes.
Also Read: Pregnancy Fatigue: Unraveling Causes and Research-Backed Solutions
The tendency of women to feel more anxious during and after pregnancy and the sudden surge in the rates as revealed by the study shows us that expectant mothers are going through a vulnerable time in terms of both mental and physical health during the pandemic. In this regard, the importance of positive social support from loved ones such as family and friends is crucial. Unaddressed mental health crises in women could severely affect the health of the mother, the nature of the delivery, the relationship between the mother and the child and lastly, the development of the infant in its later stages. These mental health issues that arise during or after pregnancy are collectively termed peripartum depression and can be managed well with proper treatment and counselling given on time.
The American College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists recommends taking women for counselling at least once during their pregnancy to screen possibilities of undetected anxiety and depression. Pregnant women and new mothers need to be felt loved and supported by their loved ones to make their most special time healthy as much as possible.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
From 21st June 2021, the Indian federal government has opened up a free COVID-19 vaccination drive for everyone above 18 years of age. Even though the rules have been specified for all people, a few frequently asked questions ever since the vaccination drive began in March 2021 has been, ”Is there a COVID-19 vaccine for pregnant and lactating women?” ”Are COVID-19 vaccine pregnancy safe?”
The National Technical Advisory Group on Immunisation (NTAGI), in its notification on 28th May 2021, stated that all lactating mothers are now eligible to get vaccinated. Although the vaccination rules for COVID and lactating moms have been specified, the rules for pregnant women and the answer to ”Are COVID-19 vaccines pregnancy safe?” are still inconclusive.
Let us understand the safety and rules of the COVID-19 vaccine for pregnant and lactating women.
Some countries have already begun vaccination for pregnant women. However, due to the availability of limited data, COVID vaccination of pregnant women has not been started in India. Studies and trials to understand the safe use of these vaccines during pregnancy are going on.
None of the approved vaccines being used in the world contains a live virus, there is no chance that you may get a COVID infection due to a vaccine.
Pregnancy is a very delicate phase for a woman and during this time, ensuring the wellness of the mother and her unborn child is essential. Good care of diet and lifestyle along with all safety precautions for COVID should be followed during pregnancy. Regular follow-ups with your doctor are important.
However, expecting mothers have not been given any direction to take the COVID-19 vaccine in India due to insufficient data that proves these vaccines are safe for them. Trials to determine the efficacy and safety of COVID-19 vaccines are still underway. We can expect some guidelines on this in the coming future. As per the current guidelines, pregnant women in India should wait till childbirth for their vaccination and take a jab post-delivery after discussing it with the treating doctor.
Apart from pregnant women, another common question that most people had was, ”Can breastfeeding women take the vaccine for COVID-19?”. Concerns about breastfeeding and COVID have been addressed and after some considerations, the NTAGI advised that all women can take the vaccine anytime after their delivery.
This recommendation came after the studies showed that the vaccine does not impact breast milk flow or supply in any way. In addition, some studies are trying to find out if vaccinated lactating mothers may be able to transmit COVID-19 antibodies to their babies.
All the breastfeeding mothers can now take a Covid vaccine in India.
Pregnant women and new lactating mothers have been anxious about the safety of their baby and their health. If you are a new mother, here are some precautions that you can take while breastfeeding or taking care of your baby:
Pregnant women and lactating mothers need special attention and care during these challenging times. If you have decided to get vaccinated, discuss and consult with your healthcare provider before taking your jab. Here are some things you must remember:
Also, remember that vaccination does not guarantee 100% immunity against COVID-19. However, it prepares your body with the antibodies required to prevent any severe condition due to the virus, especially when your body is undergoing many changes due to pregnancy, childbirth and lactation.
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
All the to-be-Dad’s out there who have read or watched ”What to expect when you’re expecting”, will know that nothing can really prepare you for the joys and challenges of fatherhood. However, getting the right advice and support will surely help you embark on this new and exciting journey.
Having a baby changes your priorities. Both men and women face similar issues on becoming new parents. However, men tend to focus more on financial responsibilities. Their joy is often mixed with anxiety. Remember that you are not alone in your doubts and fears and that it’s completely normal to have mixed emotions. Talk to your partner and discuss the life changes that lie ahead.
Pregnancy can be exhausting both physically and emotionally for your partner. But your support can help ease the process. Get more involved with the house chores so that your partner can get adequate rest. Your partner would have her set of doubts as well. With the emotions running high, pregnancy, especially for first-time moms could get a little scary. She would fret about things like, Is the baby doing ok, What would the labour be like or would she have to undergo a C-section. Be the hand she can hold onto and the shoulder she can cry on.
Make sure you keep aside time to accompany your partner for the doctor’s appointments. This goes on to show that you will be with her all the way into the pregnancy. You will also know what’s going on in the pregnancy and will help you be better prepared. Lastly, it will help you connect with your unborn baby.
Falling asleep gets difficult and uncomfortable as the pregnancy proceeds. Getting her a full body pillow that will make side sleeping a bit more comfortable by helping support the back and cradling the belly is definitely a gift she would appreciate.
Pregnancy affects hormones. Your partner may feel fantastic one minute and maybe an emotional wreck the other. Try to be patient, understanding and loving.
Support her by adding or dropping habits that she has to because of the pregnancy. For example, giving up alcohol and coffee. Exercise is crucial for the mom and baby, go for a walk or hit the gym together.
Your partner will be undergoing some serious body transformation during pregnancy. Make sure to tell her that she is beautiful and that you love her.
Affecting about 75% of pregnant women, morning sickness is quite possibly the worst part of pregnancy. Its symptoms include headache, excessive sleepiness, nausea and vomiting. Morning sickness may begin from about a month after conception and go on until the twelfth or fourteenth week of pregnancy. Some women may experience it during the entire duration of pregnancy. The name ‘Morning sickness’ can be deceiving as most women experience the symptoms throughout the day. Be willing to take those trips, even at midnight to help her be at ease.
If you’re a smoker, now is the time to stop. Cigarette smoking can be dangerous for babies. If you do decide to continue, make sure you don’t do it near your partner, you don’t offer her or leave your cigarettes lying near her.
Prepare a checklist for the final weeks before the birth of your baby. The few things that could go into it will be:
Start looking for a paediatrician about 3 months before the birth of your baby. Ask for recommendations from friends, relatives, neighbours, co-workers with kids or your obstetrician. If possible, schedule a prenatal consultation about 2 months before your due date.
In conclusion, on average, a woman having her first baby can have labour lasting anywhere between 12 to 24 hours from her first contraction to delivery. Spend this time together and helping her feel at ease. The pain she is experiencing is far beyond your imagination. Stay focused on her. Finally, there’s no way to anticipate every possible scenario, but the birth of your child is a life-changing event. Cherish It!
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
A healthy pregnancy is a priority for every mother-to-be, but for women who have diabetes, including those who are diagnosed with gestational diabetes, their health care can become more complex. You have a challenging road ahead of you, but the good news is that there’s a lot you can do to increase your chances of a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
Women with diabetes who are diagnosed prior to pregnancy have a higher risk of complications, including miscarriage and birth defects. The good news is that with a plan, healthy strategies, and support, you can control your diabetes, have a healthy pregnancy, and deliver a healthy baby.
If you have diabetes and plan to conceive, you should talk to your doctor to make sure your A1C levels are normal, talk about medication if it’s necessary or ask to be referred to a nutritionist.
Get your HB A1C levels tested regularly. Book Test here.
One of the best ways to ensure you will have a healthy pregnancy is to make sure you start out at a normal weight. Eat a primarily plant-based diet, avoid excessive added sugars, preservatives, processed foods, and those high in saturated fats.
Read More About 5 Diet Tips for Diabetes Management
Women who have diabetes can have a safe pregnancy and a healthy baby, but it’s important to monitor diabetes complications that could worsen throughout pregnancy, such as high blood pressure, vision loss, and kidney disease.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Exercise will help you metabolize food better, control blood glucose and help to control your weight during and after pregnancy. The CDC recommends pregnant women get 150 minutes of moderate-intensity aerobic activity every week.
Read More About 7 Health Benefits of Regular Exercise
When planning your meals, know how many carbohydrates are in each food and limit the amount you eat because it will raise your blood sugar.
The combination of high blood glucose levels from the mother and high insulin levels in the fetus results in large deposits of fat which causes the fetus to grow excessively large, this is commonly seen in diabetic mothers with uncontrolled diabetes.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
Vegetables are filled with phytonutrients and fill-you-up fibre, plus they aid digestion and prevent excess weight gain. They also are low calorie and low in carbohydrates, so they won’t affect your blood sugar. Non-starchy vegetables like lettuce, carrots, cucumber, and broccoli are all good choices.
Make sure you eat every two to three hours during the day to keep nausea at bay. If you take insulin or pills, eat a few saltine crackers before getting out of bed in the morning and then take your medication to make sure you can keep food down. A small source of fast-acting carbohydrates such as glucose tablets, honey, or juice can help if your blood glucose levels are low. Then have breakfast that includes a healthy protein source like eggs or plain Greek yoghurt.
Try a fresh green vegetable juice, which is a good source of folate and calcium. This can control your appetite and prevent sugar cravings. Avoid juices with a lot of fruit because it can spike your blood sugar.
Also Read: Can You Get Pregnant Without Having Sex? Debunking Pregnancy Myths
It’s important to drink plenty of water to stay hydrated during pregnancy. Be sure to avoid juice, soda, sports drinks and sweeteners in coffee and tea.
It’s OK to enjoy a slice of pie or holiday cookies but take stock of the total amount of carbohydrates you’ll be eating with dessert and if you will need to compensate with medication. If you want dessert, consider having a salad instead of a sandwich as your meal, for example.
Having gestational diabetes can increase your risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy, which might be more difficult to control than in non-diabetics and might need insulin.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
Look for apps that help you log blood sugar, food or count carbs and sensors and continuous blood glucose monitors.
Studies show 35 to 60 per cent of women with gestational diabetes will develop Type 2 diabetes within 5 to 10 years. If you have gestational diabetes, it’s important to talk to your doctor about monitoring your blood glucose and making lifestyle changes after your pregnancy.
You might have misconceptions about diabetes in pregnancy, blame yourself or need advice. Seek out the help of a certified diabetes educator, a registered dietitian nutritionist who can help you create a realistic and delicious meal plan or a community of pregnant moms who have diabetes. It’s important to realize that you will need a plan, make healthy lifestyle choices for you and your baby and seek out information. But stick with it, and you can have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
Also Read About: 10 Home Remedies For Diabetes
When suffering from diabetes in pregnancy, remember it’s important to work hard at achieving excellent control, remember that occasional blood sugar that is higher than you like is not going to do long-term damage to your child. And if you feel yourself getting frustrated and burnt out, try to keep in mind some of the long-term benefits of all the hard work you’re putting into your pregnancy.
Need more information on diabetes and its related diseases? Ask Anya! Chat with Anya Bot here via Facebook and get more information on diabetes management.
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
Iron deficiency in our body means low levels of iron in our body. This deficiency will lead to a reduced number of specific cells that carry oxygen to the body’s tissues. This implies that inadequate iron would lead to insufficient oxygen for the body. Therefore, one may continuously feel tired even without physical exertion along with shortness of breath.
Initially, with mild iron deficiency one may not find significant symptoms, however, as the deficiency progresses one may note symptoms like loss of appetite, weakness, pale skin, headache, dizziness, cold hands and feet, sore tongue, easily breaking nails, craving for strange things like ice, dirt, starch. If you notice any of these symptoms without a reasonable cause, you should consult your doctor for medical advice.
You may notice pale skin and cold hands and feet. Iron-deficiency anemia can also cause you to feel dizzy or lightheaded. Occasionally, it can cause chest pain, a fast heartbeat and shortness of breath. Iron deficiency can cause you to have unusual cravings for non-food items such as ice, dirt or paper.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Read More: Signs & Symptoms of Anaemia
Iron deficiency is more common but not necessarily limited to women, premature children, vegetarians if the consumed diet does not compensate for the same and people who donate blood more frequently.
There are several reasons why iron deficiency may occur like loss of blood, pregnancy, iron-deficient diet or specific disease conditions of the digestive system which do not allow adequate absorption of iron from the food. Hence, it is essential that one seeks medical advice to obtain an appropriate diagnosis and subsequent treatment.
Iron deficiency may be prevented by consuming more iron-rich foods like dried raisins, chicken, fish, beans, green leafy vegetables and many more. Vitamin C helps in better absorption of iron from food. So include citrus fruits like oranges, muskmelon, watermelon, kiwi, broccoli, tomatoes in your diet.
Also Read: How to Increase Iron Levels Quickly: Effective Strategies Backed by Research
Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute fairly common advice given to patients, and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.
A woman’s body and mind go through a plethora of changes during pregnancy.
From your mind trying to cope up with the unmatched pleasure of carrying a living being inside the womb and your body striving hard to get by with the turbulence of your pregnancy hormones and the physiological adaptations needed to sustain your baby- pregnancy, as someone rightly quoted is not a short-term diet but a long-term lifestyle change.
Amongst the various physiological, systemic and metabolic changes occurring during pregnancy, an increase in iron demands to sustain the growing fetus especially in the second half of the pregnancy is one of the most important ones.
Due to the increased demand for iron, there is always a physiological iron deficiency during pregnancy; however, when the haemoglobin concentration is 11gm/100 ml or less from the starting of the pregnancy, the lady is regarded as anaemic.
During pregnancy, the volume of blood increases. This means more iron and vitamins are needed to make more red blood cells. If you don’t have enough iron, it can cause anemia and problems to growing baby. Consult your doctor for iron and folic acid supplements during pregnancy.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Also Read: What is Anterior Placenta: A Comprehensive Insight into Maternal Health
Iron deficiency during the first trimester, has a more negative impact on fetal growth than anemia developing later in pregnancy, caution is always advised and consultation with gynaecologist is highly recommended.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
Also Read: Implantation Symptoms: Evidence-Based Guide to Early Pregnancy Signs
Also, always keep in mind that your gynaecologist knows what the best for you and your baby is. So, it is necessary that you always consult your doctor before making any dietary changes.
Also read: Eating Right: Foods To Avoid During Pregnancy
Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
Pregnancy is a journey through which almost every woman would want to travel at least once in her lifetime. For some, this journey is a cakewalk, without any hindrance, making it an enjoyable experience. Whereas for some, challenges begin from the time they plan to have a baby like it is in the case of women suffering from type 1 diabetes. During pregnancy, various factors come into play like hormonal changes, mood swings, nausea, vomiting, cravings, etc. Hence, it becomes more difficult to have good control over your blood sugar levels.
For any woman suffering from type 1 diabetes, it is very important to control her blood sugar levels from the day she plans to conceive until the baby is delivered. Also, she should work with an experienced gynaecologist/obstetrician along with the supervision of an endocrinologist who has worked with such patients previously.
During pregnancy, a diabetic woman would face a lot of challenges because of strict sugar control. The following strategies will ensure a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby:
Keeping your HbA1C levels on target is very important because blood sugar levels that stay high during pregnancy may cause your baby to grow too large (macrosomia) or harm the early development of organs and lead to birth defects and also delay lung maturity.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
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During pregnancy, the probability of suffering from hypoglycemia increases a lot, hence be aware of its signs and symptoms and try to educate people around you, so they are well-equipped to handle an emergency. Always keep a fast-acting carbohydrate handy. Hypoglycemia limits the mother’s amount of glucose stores, which may affect the developing infant and hence, is at risk of developing various long-term conditions, such as cognitive deficits, developmental abnormalities, and hypertension.
During pregnancy, the need for insulin also increases significantly. Insulin itself does not have any side effects on the baby, but high blood sugar does. The main concern is congenital malformations in the form of neural tube defects (such as spina bifida) and congenital abnormalities of the heart.
Learn not to give in to your sugar cravings easily because this will disrupt your sugar levels. Always try opting for healthier alternatives to suffice your sweet tooth. Keep a tab of your calories so you know when you can indulge.
Read More: Foods to Avoid in Gestational Diabetes
A continuous glucose monitor could be a handy tool to keep a close watch on your blood glucose level. This device gives speedy feedback on your blood sugar levels and rates of change so that you can alter your routine immediately.
It is essential that a diabetic woman maintain tight control over her blood sugar before she plans another pregnancy. Hence, she must opt for adequate birth control post-delivery. Always discuss the family planning methods you prefer with your doctor so that they can be put in place after delivery.
Also Read: Foods That Fight Nausea During Pregnancy: Guide For Expecting Mothers
Occasional fluctuation in your glucose levels will not harm the baby if your HbA1C is under control. Having a baby has always been tough, and if you have type 1 diabetes, you must be more cautious to ensure a healthy baby.
Read More: Gestational Diabetes During Pregnancy: Its Symptoms, Causes And Risks
Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.
