Fertilization of an egg is the event that marks the beginning of a pregnancy. Normally, the fertilized egg sticks to the uterine lining (lining of the uterus). When a fertilized egg implants and grows outside the main cavity of the uterus, it is called an ectopic pregnancy. When a fertilized egg implants in a part of the body (other than the uterus) that can’t support its growth, this is what happens. The fallopian tube is frequently the site of an ectopic pregnancy (a pair of structures that connect the ovaries and uterus). Ectopic pregnancy can even occur on the ovary or in the abdominal cavity in rare situations.
When the fertilized egg implants in the fallopian tube, it is called a tubal pregnancy. Tubal pregnancies are the most frequent type of ectopic pregnancy, accounting for the majority of ectopic pregnancies. The type of tubal pregnancy can be further differentiated based on where the pregnancy develops inside the fallopian tube.
Nearly 2% of all ectopic pregnancies develop in other parts of the body, such as the ovary, cervix or intra-abdominal region.
In some rare circumstances, one fertilised egg implants inside the uterus while the other implants outside. Because of the painful nature of ectopic pregnancy, it is frequently identified before intrauterine pregnancy. The pregnancy inside the womb may still be viable if human chorionic gonadotropin levels continue to rise after the ectopic embryo has been removed.
The fertilized egg was unable to migrate down the fallopian tube rapidly enough, resulting in an ectopic pregnancy. A tube might become partially or totally blocked as a result of an infection or inflammation. Inflammation of the pelvis is a common cause of ectopic pregnancy.
Endometriosis is another common cause of tube blockage. This occurs when cells like those in the uterine lining develop outside the uterus also. The cells have the potential to develop inside the fallopian tube and restrict the normal passage of the fertilized eggs. The tube can potentially be blocked by scar tissue from earlier abdominal surgery or fallopian tube surgery.
Some more causes of ectopic pregnancy are:
At first, you may not notice any ectopic pregnancy symptoms. Some women with an ectopic pregnancy, on the other hand, experience the typical early signs and symptoms of pregnancy, such as missed periods, breast soreness and nausea. The following signs of ectopic pregnancy become more clear as the fetus keeps growing in the wrong place in the body.
Ectopic pregnancy treatment may vary depending on the location of the ectopic pregnancy. This should be considered an emergency and a gynaecologist should be consulted immediately.
Your doctor may prescribe various medications that could prevent the ectopic mass from bursting. A common medication for this is a medicine that stops the growth of rapidly developing cells. When effective, this medication causes similar symptoms to those of a miscarriage, such as cramping, bleeding and passing of tissue.
The embryo should be removed and any internal damage repaired, according to many surgeons. A laparotomy is a medical term for this surgery. To ensure that they can view their job, your doctor will insert a small camera through a small incision. The embryo is then removed and any damage to the fallopian tube is repaired.
If the fertilized egg continues to grow in the fallopian tube, it can cause the tube to rupture. There is a risk of heavy bleeding. Symptoms of this life-threatening event include severe pain in the abdominal region, extreme lightheadedness, fainting and shock.
The majority of women who experience ectopic pregnancies can have healthy pregnancies in future. The egg can be fertilized normally if both fallopian tubes or even just one, are still intact. If you have a pre-existing reproductive condition, however, it may damage your future fertility and raise your risk of ectopic pregnancy. This is especially true if the preexisting reproductive issue has resulted in ectopic pregnancy in the past. The best you can do is to consult a gynaecologist and clear all your doubts.
Also Read: How To Wash Out Sperm To Prevent Pregnancy: A Comprehensive Contraception Guide
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.
Postpartum depression is a type of depression that occurs in some women who have given birth recently and affects them physically, emotionally and behaviourally. Typically, this kind of depression begins within 2- 4 weeks after giving birth.
Postpartum depression symptoms include a broad spectrum of changes that a mother endures. It is important to note that the condition doesn’t happen to all women after pregnancy.
After giving birth, about 1 in 10 women experience some form of depressive psychological change. In extreme cases, postpartum psychosis may also occur in 1 out of every 1000 women.
The most common signs of postpartum depression are easily missed. These are associated with giving birth and may initially not indicate any serious mental health issues:
Along with the above general postpartum symptoms, major clinical depression after giving birth may also be associated with the following:
Note that, as per most psychological/psychiatric institutions, postpartum depression is a real, serious medical condition. Although it may not affect everyone, it is still common enough that it should be talked about often.
Panic disorder, obsessive-compulsive disorder and other conditions may also occur simultaneously.
There aren’t any confirmed causes of postpartum depression. We do know that it is most probably related to the extreme hormonal changes in the woman’s body during this time. For example, oestrogen, the female hormone associated with reproduction, is ten times higher during pregnancy. But within 3 days of giving birth, this number drops to pre-pregnancy levels.
This is a rapid hormonal change and it is linked to this postpartum depression, but the exact processes are not understood. Other factors that contribute to this condition include lack of sleep, anxiety over the newborn baby and its care as well as psychological factors like loss of self-image, self-identity, a sense of not being in control or even a perceived loss of attractiveness.
Apart from these potential symptoms, certain risk factors play a role in postpartum depression:
Postpartum care will vary depending on how serious your symptoms are. There are several options available to help you, your baby and your family get through this time. Medications can be one part of your treatment. Additional help will be in the form of psychotherapy/counselling as well as participation in support groups.
Even if you are breastfeeding, you may still be able to take your depression medication prescribed by your doctor. Speak with your doctor and decide with them.
Also Read: Pregnancy Fatigue: Unraveling Causes and Research-Backed Solutions
Giving birth can be one of the most joyous occasions in your life. But it is important to be prepared for the good and the bad. Postpartum depression isn’t likely to affect many women, but the ‘baby blues’ as it’s called can affect as many as 70% of women. In the days following your pregnancy, be sure to monitor your mental health and get as much sleep as you need. Speak with your partner, family members, social support and doctor in case you feel you may be experiencing signs of postpartum depression. Consult a psychiatrist without delay if you notice any symptoms of postpartum depression.
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.
A majority of women experience vaginal yeast infections some time in their lives. It is caused by Candida Albicans, a fungus that resides naturally in the vagina. When an overgrowth of this fungus happens, most women experience inflammation, irritation, itching and painful discharge. If you would rather depend on the natural ways of treating the vaginal yeast infection and not prescription drugs, look at the home remedies that we have lined up for you.
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.
Humans, like most mammals, are able to reproduce when the male gamete (sperm) and the female gamete (ova or eggs) combine to create new life. This is sexual reproduction and in humans, the time when the egg is available to be fertilised is called ovulation.
Ovulation plays an important role for those wishing to start a family and get pregnant. For women trying to conceive, there is a vital need to know when the ovulation time has started. Let’s learn more about how the menstrual cycle works and how it affects reproduction.
For those attempting to get pregnant, it is critical to understand that the female’s egg can only be fertilised during a certain period ‘window’ of time. This is called the fertile window and it is part of the menstrual cycle that all human females undergo till menopause.
The menstrual cycle works like this:
Also Read: Sperm Cramp: Causes, Symptoms, And Being Informed About Men’s Health
It is generally accepted that the fertile window is only the five days preceding ovulation or the day of ovulation itself. In most cases, this may be closer to the 3 days prior to ovulation and the day of ovulation. Sexual intercourse during these ovulation days (or fertile window) is the only way to get pregnant naturally.
Also Read: Uncovering 5 Myths About Menstruation!
Your cervical mucus – you may notice wetter, clearer and more slippery mucus around the time of ovulation. your body temperature – there’s a small rise in body temperature after ovulation takes place, which you may be able to detect with a thermometer.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Now that you understand the importance of ovulation with regards to pregnancy, how can you know when you are ovulating. There are several methods you can use.
Some women may experience a slight increase in basal body temperature, tender breasts, cramping and bloating so watch for these as well.
Also Read: 10 Effective Home Remedies For Irregular Periods
Many people try to track ovulation days and use a calendar method for not getting pregnant. But this method alone is not at all reliable, therefore it is best to talk to your doctor about the right ways- (use of condoms, contraceptive pills and devices) if you do not want to conceive. Figuring out your ovulation cycle and trying to get pregnant isn’t impossible, but it’s not precise either. Using the above methods can help you narrow down your fertile window and plan your conception days better. If you experience any trouble despite trying for a while, speak with your doctor or a fertility specialist.
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.
New mothers often get so busy caring for their kids that they ignore their health and well-being. With being a new mother, the body goes through a lot of changes. Lactation is one of those things. The breasts are extremely gentle and sensitive areas in the body that tend to be even more delicate during breastfeeding. Mastitis can occur to anyone but is seen more commonly in breastfeeding mothers (lactation mastitis).
Mastitis is a condition that causes inflammation of breast tissue that sometimes may involve an infection. The inflammation results in breast pain, swelling, warmth and redness. Fevers and chills are also some of the symptoms of Mastitis.
Mastitis can occur in women who aren’t breastfeeding. Even men may get Mastitis. Lactation mastitis can cause you to feel low, weary and drained, making it difficult to care for your baby. Doctors will prescribe antibiotics which have to be taken regularly. These medications will keep you going and help you get your strength as you feed your baby.
It is safe to continue breastfeeding if you have mastitis. The milk supply in the affected breast may be reduced for several weeks after mastitis but will return to normal with stimulation from the baby. Breast pain and redness often peak on the 2nd or the 3rd day and return to normal by the 5th day.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D
Signs and symptoms of Mastitis can appear suddenly. They may include:
Worldwide, lactational mastitis occurs in 2%-30% of breastfeeding women. The incidence is the highest in the first three weeks postpartum. The initial management of lactational mastitis is symptomatic treatment. Continuing to fully empty the breasts has shown to decrease the duration of symptoms in patients treated both with and without antibiotics.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
If you notice any symptoms of mastitis, it is best to consult with your doctor without delay and follow the full course of mastitis treatment that is prescribed to you.
The main cause of Mastitis is when milk gets trapped in the breasts. Other causes of Mastitis include:
Risk factors for mastitis include:
To avoid complications such as mastitis and having a healthy breastfeeding relationship with your baby, meeting with a lactation consultant at the beginning of your breastfeeding is beneficial. A lactation consultant can give you tips and provide invaluable advice when it comes to having proper breastfeeding techniques.
Some of the preventive measures that can be taken to prevent Mastitis are as follows:
Although Mastitis is a common condition that may occur in lactating women, it may be prevented by following your doctor’s advice. If conditions worsen, visit your doctor and ask for medications that will give you relief.
Also Read: Can Men Lactate? Unveiling the Surprising Biological Possibilities
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.
PCOD stands for Poly Cystic Ovary Disease. The condition affects the ovaries in women by causing cysts. This leads to a hormonal imbalance with the body producing more male hormones than needed. The hormonal imbalance leads to problems in menstruation and fertility apart from other issues. Women with PCOS may have irregular or prolonged menstrual cycles, as well as high levels of the male hormone androgen. The ovaries may produce a large number of tiny collections of fluid (follicles) and fail to release eggs on a regular basis. If left untreated, PCOD can cause more serious problems like heart disease and diabetes. Read on to find all you need to know about PCOD Problems.
In PCOD, many small sacs fill up with fluid inside the ovaries. Each of these contains an immature egg that never triggers ovulation. The absence of ovulation leads to a hormonal imbalance with a high release of male hormones. Research hasn’t pointed out the exact reasons why PCOD problems happen. However, certain factors contribute to it. They are:
Did You Know
PCOS signs and symptoms usually appear around the time of puberty’s first menstrual period. PCOS can develop later in life, for example, as a result of significant weight gain. Many women do not realize that they are suffering from PCOD. There are certain common symptoms of PCOD problems:
Unwanted hair on face, neck and other body parts is a symptom of hormonal derrangemts as in PCOD. People often opt for hair removal sessions but do not reach out to doctors. Plz, consult your endocrinologist and gynecologist if you notice signs of unwanted excessive facial and body hair
Dr. Arpit Verma, MBBS, MD
PCOD causes infertility as it reduces the frequency of ovulation in the body.
PCOD causes insulin resistance in the body leading to diabetes.
PCOD increases the blood pressure in the body leading to vulnerability towards heart problems.
Because there is delayed ovulation, the body experiences a thickening of the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus. This increases the odds of getting endometrial cancer.
Many women suffer from depression due to hormonal imbalance in the body.
evidence is accumulated on women with PCOS potentially being at high risk for CNS and cardiovascular disease. Many of these women have extremely high levels of serum lipoprotein, blood glucose, and cholesterol, which also increase the risk of insulin resistance. Women with PCOS may also be at high risk for endometrial cancer.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
PCOD has yet to be identified as a disease with a cure. You may, however, manage the illness with correct treatment and lifestyle changes. Ultrasound and blood tests help to diagnose PCOD.
PCOD can be treated with the correct lifestyle and medications. Consult your gynaecologist if you feel you may have PCOD.
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.
Just like every woman has a fixed maid, a vegetable and fruit vendor, a grocer, a butcher, and a tailor who help make her life smooth, just so she also needs a team of doctors who help maintain her health.
From a little babe to a confused teen, from a beautiful young lady to an overstressed bride, from a to-be mom to a menopausal grandma, a woman’s body is forever changing – on the inside and out. To help your body cope with these intrinsic nuances of womanhood, every woman should make it a point to consult the following seven doctors at various stages in her life:
A general physician is a family doctor. He/She is usually the primary care provider and the first point of contact in case of a health-related upheaval. He knows your medical history and can immediately figure out if something doesn’t quite seem right.
A gynaecologist specialises in treating problems arising in the female reproductive organs and is the first doctor to be approached if you face premenstrual, menstrual or other issues, which are mostly related to hormonal changes. Gynaecologists are also the go-to doctors during the menopausal age and if there’s something askew with your organs. This is one specialist who will be your constant healthcare companion once you hit puberty till forever after.
Most gynaecologists are also obstetricians and can assist you during pregnancy. However, if your gynaecologist is not an obstetrician, then you will need one to guide you through the stages of pregnancy. An obstetrician, a pregnancy and childbirth specialist, monitors both fetal growth and progress in pregnancy and assists during labour and delivery.
The abundance of readily available cosmetics along with the favoured trial-and-error method of skincare turns out to have hazardous effects on your skin. You now need a real specialist (not the shopping mall sales personnel) to tell you what suits your skin and what doesn’t. A dermatologist is a skin specialist who can also treat hair and nail problems. Everything from acne to dark spots and melanoma to age-related wrinkles is under their domain, making them the most critical asset in your make-up kit.
An ophthalmologist is an eye specialist who deals with eye issues ranging from regular vision care to complex eye surgeries and everything in between. Whether it be for an annual eye check-up, prescription lens or corrective eye surgeries, a visit to an ophthalmologist at least once a year is a must!
Your smile is the first thing people notice about you, and a dentist is a prerequisite to having a good one! Besides, recent studies have shown a connection between oral and overall health. Consulting a dentist for a dental cleaning and oral checks at least once every six months will ensure that your radiant smile exudes charm forever.
Often, women have faced flailing bone density issues. Beyond menopause, osteoporosis becomes a serious threat. Meeting with a bone specialist (orthopedist) helps bridge these gaps making old age more enjoyable than a painful chore.
While you may not need a specialist during your younger years, as you get older the likelihood of needing one increases. Breast care specialists are doctors who have undergone a fellowship or training in breast care, including cancerous and non-cancerous tumours. Although your general physician or family doctor may discover any lumps or issues in your breasts during a routine check, you may also detect the same yourself. In the latter case, you’ll want to meet with a medical oncologist, a breast surgeon, a gynaecologist or a surgical oncologist. While the type of doctor isn’t fixed, it is still good for women to have a breast specialist at the ready when they need one.
No matter how fit you feel, every woman should make and keep these appointments. This will lead to the early detection of any health issue, thus helping you deal with it better.
In the journey of womanhood, a dedicated team of doctors plays a vital role. From the general physician to the gynaecologist, dermatologist and more, each specialist contributes to maintaining optimal health at every stage. Regular check-ups with these experts ensure early detection and effective management of any health issues. Prioritizing these appointments empowers women to navigate life with vitality and confidence, safeguarding their well-being for the future.
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.
PCOD vs PCOS – Are they the same? Many women use both, PCOD (Poly Cystic Ovarian Disease) and PCOS (Poly Cystic Ovarian Syndrome) interchangeably when both are very different conditions. While both the conditions are related to the ovaries and both cause hormonal disturbances, there are many significant differences.
All women have two ovaries that release an egg alternately every month. These ovaries also produce female hormones that are responsible for many things like fertility, period schedule, facial hair, etc. apart from these they also produce androgens or male hormones but in very minute quantities.
PCOD is a condition in which the ovaries contain many immature or partially mature eggs. They, eventually, turn into cysts. Junk food, being overweight, stress and hormonal disturbances give birth to this condition. Common symptoms of PCOD are irregular periods, abdominal weight gain, infertility and male pattern hair loss. The ovaries usually become enlarged in this problem and secrete large amounts of androgens that cause havoc with the woman’s fertility and her body.
PCOS is a metabolic disorder that is more severe than PCOD. In this condition, the ovaries produce a higher quantity of the male hormone and this leads to the formation of more than ten follicular cysts in the ovary every month. This stops the release of the egg leading to anovulation. Symptoms include hair loss, obesity and infertility.
While neither PCOD nor PCOS can be directly caused due to a particular food, a healthy diet goes a long way to preventing or easing the symptoms of both. PCOS has been highly linked to obesity and being overweight, additionally, it is harder to lose weight with these conditions.
Since PCOS is closely tied to insulin resistance, you should avoid a diet rich in starch and sugar and cut highly refined carbs from your diet. Add high-fibre foods and veggies as well as nuts and olive oil, this can help you feel full while reducing weight.
Try limiting your intake of processed flour bread, sugary desserts and drinks and avoid corn syrup sweetened goods too. You may not experience any improvement in symptoms unless you also pair your diet changes with increased daily exercise and use stress-reduction techniques.
The PCOD vs PCOS symptoms may be similar and harder to distinguish unless you stop and think about it. The dietary changes required are also similar. PCOD and PCOS both will require dietary and lifestyle changes to help you with your recovery.
In both cases, i.e., PCOD vs PCOS, losing weight, eating a healthy diet that is free of processed and junk food and following regular exercise, the schedule has shown tremendous improvements. It is imperative to catch the disease as soon as possible to control the damage with proper lifestyle changes and medications. If you have irregular periods, acne or excessive facial hair growth, you need to get yourself checked.
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.
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.
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.
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.
