This article is written by Dr Veena H (MBBS.DGO). Dr. Veena is a gynaecologist with 10 Years Of Clinical Experience
Pregnancy and giving birth can be some of the most joyous and trying times of your life simultaneously. During pregnancy, you will experience many physical changes in your body which in turn also affect you emotionally. Expectant mothers are often curious to know about the expected changes in their bodies during pregnancy and also about the process of development of their baby.
For simplification, the 9-month term of pregnancy is divided into 3 trimesters (one trimester lasting for 3 months each). Let’s learn some interesting facts about the first trimester, the initial three months of your pregnancy.
The confirmation of pregnancy comes as surprising news to some couples. This is because the first trimester starts from the first day of your last period. It lasts up to the 12th week of pregnancy. Many physiological changes will occur during this trimester. It is often considered one of the most important phases of pregnancy.
Nausea is a well-known symptom of pregnancy, affecting at least 70% of expecting mothers. Also called morning sickness, nausea usually begins at around six weeks, peaks between weeks 8-11, and typically fades near the end of the first trimester.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Each body is different. So every individual woman will carry and experience her pregnancy differently. During the first trimester, a woman can expect the following-
Morning Sickness: Nausea and vomiting are very commonly experienced during pregnancy. Every woman experiences it differently – mild, moderate or severe. Do not fear vomiting and do not take any medication on your own. Your doctor will advise you on ways to manage this and if required appropriate medicines will be prescribed.
Spotting: Women may experience instances of light spotting, particularly in the early period of their pregnancy. Sometimes, it can be an indication of the embryo implanting itself in the uterus.
Cravings: A common sign of early pregnancy is food cravings. Your taste preferences may change during this period. Though food cravings are usually harmless, women should keep a lookout and try to eat healthy food. Eg. Choose a fresh fruit when craving sweets.
Tenderness of the breasts: Pregnancy alters the hormonal levels in the body. Soreness and tenderness of the breasts are common signs associated with pregnancy, due to this hormonal change.
Change in urination habits: As the baby continues to grow inside the uterus, it may lead to pressure on your bladder from within. This could result in the need to urinate more frequently.
Tiredness: Pregnancy can be demanding on your body because essentially one body is growing inside another. This process of developing a baby inside the womb may be exhausting leading to fatigue during the first three months.
Vaginal Discharge: Vaginal discharge is a common and natural phenomenon in pregnant women.
Constipation: Among the most common conditions experienced by women during pregnancy’s first trimester is constipation. High levels of progesterone hormone are released which tends to slow down the digestive system. Your body will host a growing baby for the coming nine months. So you can expect to feel multiple changes (both internally and in the outer appearance). Heartburn, mood changes and increased weight are a few changes you can expect as well as an upset tummy, headaches, nausea and more.
Problems in early pregnancy are most likely to be due to pregnancy not attaching or forming properly. Usually, if a pregnancy is not going to be viable it will miscarry. Caution and regular consultation with the gynecologist are always recommended.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
Also Read: Implantation Symptoms: Evidence-Based Guide to Early Pregnancy Signs
During the first trimester of pregnancy, fertilization of the eggs takes place, resulting in an embryo forming. It is the period when the foundation is laid for the growth of your baby.
In this first trimester, the organs begin to develop in the body of the fetus. You can expect the following to happen:
Bones: The bones of the baby’s legs, arms, hands and feet will begin growing by 6 weeks.
Heart: The baby’s heart will first develop as a tube initially and begin beating.
Digestive system: The baby’s intestines will begin to form by week 8.
Touching sense: It is known that touch receptors are also formed in this period.
Brain: The developing limbs in a baby’s brain will be formed during the first trimester.
Besides this, the fetus acquires various senses including taste and eyesight with hair and nails also beginning to grow.
Also read: Eating Right: Foods To Avoid During Pregnancy
Here is a list of some do’s and don’ts to having a healthy first trimester:
| Do’s | Dont’s |
| Take a healthy and nutritious diet | Stop alcohol consumption and quit smoking |
| Exercise regularly | Do not consume undercooked seafood or meat |
| Visit your gynaecologist regularly and follow their advice | Avoid junk food |
| Eat prenatal vitamins as advised | Do not engage in rough intercourse |
| Practice some relaxation techniques and breathing exercises | Do not take any medicine or herbal supplements without first speaking with your doctor |
| Sleepwell | Do not lift heavyweights |
| Maintain good hygiene | Do not miss your follow up appointments with your doctor |
| Stay hydrated | Do not take unnecessary stress |
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The first visit to the doctor must be made once you realize, suspect or expect pregnancy. Once your pregnancy is confirmed, consult regularly with your doctor as advised. Some people require follow-up visits to the hospital more frequently than others. This may differ from person to person.
Apart from regular follow-ups, consult your gynaecologist or doctor if you experience anything unusual. Note that-
1. Heavy bleeding is not normal. If a woman has major pain or bleeding, she should visit the doctor immediately.
2. Normal vaginal discharge is typically white. If you notice that your discharge is yellow or has a foul smell, you may need a gynaecologist’s advice.
3. Excessive vomiting
3. Pain in the abdomen
4. Painful urination
5. Any other illness (do not ignore any signs of illness and remember that self-medication is to be avoided strictly during pregnancy and breastfeeding)
The most important thing about the entire pregnancy journey is your happiness and well-being. Love yourself and take good care of your health. Follow your doctor’s advice and don’t wait to ask even the silliest question that may be bothering you. Being aware and informed can take away all your worries related to pregnancy.
Also Read: Constipation in Pregnancy: Causes and Research-Based Remedies
Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
Women, more often than not, are juggling numerous responsibilities in and outside the home and often put their needs last leading to an increased risk of developing health-related issues that may remain undetected too.
As we’ve learnt from the pandemic, mental health and emotional well-being are critical to maintaining overall health. There is a noted rise in reported cases of depression, anxiety and chronic stress among women which often remains unnoticed.
Health problems can arise due to various reasons but timely diagnosis and preventive care can often reduce the severity of illness and contribute to better disease management in the long run. Women often play the role of providers taking on a larger share of household responsibilities and elderly care causing them to neglect their own health issues. These may include heart diseases, diabetes, PCOD, stress, depression and anxiety which are not diagnosed in a timely manner many times.
Stress is a major contributor. Remember, you can learn to manage your stress better by doing light yoga, meditation and deep breathing exercises.
Women aged more than 40 should have the choice to start annual breast cancer screening with mammograms (x-rays of the breast) if they wish to do so as it’ll help in early diagnosis and can treat 90% of all breast cancer.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
Here are some tips to ensure optimal health for women.
Exercise regularly for at least 15-20 minutes every day. Exercising helps keep your heart health in check, is a great stress buster and promotes good quality sleep. It is also known to improve your mood as it releases endorphins, a hormone known to make you feel good.
Appropriate is very essential for women. Well-nourished women are better able to provide for themselves, their children, and their families. Well-nourished mothers are more likely to have infants with healthy birth weights, and such children are less likely to ever suffer from malnutrition.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
Breakfast gives you the energy to power through your day. After 7-8 hours of fasting while you sleep, your body needs enough nutrition to carry out your day-to-day activities. And it is ever so crucial for women as they are always on their toes!
Also Read: Foods for Vaginal Health: Science-Backed Dietary Recommendations
Caught up with social obligations and household responsibilities, women ignore the signs of fatigue due to lack of sleep.
At least 7-9 hours of good quality sleep is crucial for optimum health. While it keeps you energized and refreshed, it also helps improve your mood and prevents the risk of diabetes and heart-related problems. Therefore, establishing a good sleep routine should be a priority.
It’s important for women to include foods rich in calcium, vitamin D, B vitamins, and iron in their diet to maintain bone health and prevent anemia and other nutritional deficiencies.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.
Make sure you get your health checkup once or twice a year at a minimum. A health checkup can help with early diagnosis and put you on track for healthy disease management.
Lupin’s Shakti Program raises awareness of cardiovascular diseases in women and encourages women to get tested for cardiovascular diseases regularly to ensure early detection and disease management if required.
Osteoporosis, urinary problems, heart disease, depression, weight gain and hot flushes are just a few issues menopausal women face. Regular check-ups with your gynaecologist would go a long way in helping you prepare for what’s to come.
Also Read: Effective Home Remedies For Vaginal Dryness
Our diets define us – cutting down on sugar intake, refined carbs and junk food will go a long way in helping you maintain optimal health. Instead, opt for a diet rich in lean proteins, healthy fats and a moderate amount of carbs and fibre.
Women who are trying to conceive are recommended to include foods rich in folic acid. On the other hand, menopausal women are advised to include a Calcium and Vitamin D-rich diet to keep their bone health in check.
Also Read: Benefits of CoQ10 for Women: Insights from Scientific Research
Lifestyle-induced women’s health risks could be easily prevented or controlled through healthy choices. Implementing these healthy choices early with an element of discipline can make a big difference! Remember, you deserve just as much as you give to others!
Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
Becoming a mother is the most joyous thing in a woman’s life. But, the path leading to it is uncertain and strenuous and so is taking a pregnancy test at the beginning of this long journey. At the time of taking a pregnancy test, anxiety about the results can get you worked up. Naturally, you would want your pregnancy test to be more of a private affair than a public one in a doctor’s lab.
When you are looking for ways of doing home pregnancy tests, you will come across many pregnancy test kits available in a drugstore these days. Studies claim that they are not as accurate as they are portrayed.
So, women either go for a blood test in a doctor’s lab or natural tests at home. In the olden days, our grandmothers would check pregnancy at home using traditional medical practices and natural ingredients. It was not only efficient but also safe in many ways.
Keeping this in mind, we have listed some DIY pregnancy tests that will prove to be useful when you want to check your pregnancy status privately.
There are only a few of us who would turn to home-made tests, but those who hesitate to take up the natural route may miss out on some of the benefits like:
Did You Know?
When a woman conceives, that is, when the embryo attaches itself to the uterine wall, the placenta forms and it starts producing the hormone, human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), which enters the bloodstream and urine. The test uses antibodies to detect hCG in the urine.
You may wonder when to take a pregnancy test? Well, during the first few weeks of the pregnancy, the concentration of the hormone increases quickly and doubles every two to three days. It generally is harder to detect when you take the test at the early stages of your pregnancy. So, it is advised to take the test one day after a missed period.
If the test says that you are not pregnant, you must keep in mind that every woman menstruates at different times in a month. In case you have an irregular menstruation cycle, then there are chances that you have miscalculated the period due date. For this reason, you may get incorrect test results.
| hCG Level | Likely Outcome |
| 5 mIU/ml | Not Pregnant |
| 5-50 mIU/ml | Possibly not pregnant or 3 weeks pregnant |
| 5-426 mIU/ml | Likely 4 weeks pregnant |
| 18-7340 mIU/ml | Likely 5 weeks pregnant |
| 1080-56,500 mIU/ml | Likely 6 weeks pregnant |
| 7650-229,000 mIU/ml | Likely 7 to 8 weeks pregnant |
Anything under 5 mIU/ml is considered an indicator of a negative result for pregnancy
Anything between 6 mIU/ml and 24 mIU/ml is considered an unsure result for pregnancy
Anything over 25 mIU/ml is generally considered a positive result for pregnancy
Most of the natural home pregnancy tests do not have any scientifically tested efficacy. In many instances, some of the common home pregnancy tests may give accurate results simply by coincidence. However, some of the natural home pregnancy test methods given below have been proven to be more effective than others. While it is always recommended to get a clinically approved pregnancy test kit that you can use easily at home, you can always try these natural methods to get quick results without having to rush to the pharmacy.
You must be burning with the question – how to test pregnancy at home? Here are some easy ways how you can check pregnancy at home naturally using only a few ingredients.
Every kitchen shelf will have salt in it. All you need for a pregnancy test at home with salt is a urine sample collected in the morning, a pinch or two of salt and a clean glass to mix the ingredients.
| Method | Positive Sign | Negative Sign |
| Add urine sample to the glass and drop a pinch or two of salt. Wait for three minutes. | If you are pregnant, you will notice that creamy white clumps have formed from the reaction. | If you find no reaction happening between urine and salt, you are not pregnant. |
Sugar is something that you will always keep a stock of at home. For this reason, this method is found to be the easiest of all. All you need for this test is a urine sample collected as soon as you wake up, one bowl and a tablespoon of sugar. Here’s what you need to do.
| Method | Positive Sign | Negative Sign |
| Add sugar to the bowl and pour the urine sample over it. | hCG present in the urine does not dissolve the sugar easily. If you see sugar forming lumps in urine, you are pregnant. | In case the sugar readily dissolves in urine, it indicates that you are not pregnant. |
Wheat and barley are a part of every Indian’s food system. Did you know that they can also help you determine your pregnancy status? Yes! Both the seeds germinate twice as quick in a pregnant lady’s urine than in water. For the test, you need barley and wheat seeds, a urine sample and a clean bowl.
| Method | Positive Sign | Negative Sign |
| Take a bowl, pour a urine sample, and add some wheat and barley seeds into it. Leave it for two days to germinate. | If you see the seeds germinating in a couple of days, then you must be pregnant. | In case they have not yet sprouted, then you are not pregnant yet. |
In case you have a delayed period and suspect that you are pregnant, you can use this homemade pregnancy test in place of rushing to a pharmacy to buy a pregnancy test kit. All you need for this test is half to ¾ cup of mustard powder and a bathtub filled with warm water. Mustard powder is said to generate heat in your body and help you get rid of delayed periods.
| Method | Positive Sign | Negative Sign |
| Add the mustard powder to the warm bathtub water and keep yourself immersed in it for about 20 minutes. Wait for two to three days. | If you get periods after the wait, then you may be pregnant. | However, if you get your periods, then it will indicate that you are not yet pregnant. |
This home pregnancy test has been proved to be super accurate. So, if you have a dandelion plant in your backyard, you can take advantage of this test. All you need are some dandelion leaves, a plastic sheet and your urine sample collected early in the morning.
| Method | Positive Sign | Negative Sign |
| Place a few dandelion leaves on the sheet making sure that it is not directly under the sunlight. Pour the urine sample over the leaves and wait for 10 minutes. | If you observe the leaves turning reddish-brown or bubble formation, assume that you are pregnant. | If you see no changes in the leaves, then you are not pregnant yet. |
Another effective homemade pregnancy test is simply observing your stored urine. All you need is a glass jar and urine sample collected early in the morning.
| Method | Positive Sign | Negative Sign |
| Add the sample to the glass jar and store it away for about 24 hours. | If you notice a thin layer or film formed on the surface of the stored sample, then you are pregnant. | The absence of any layer or film indicates that you are not pregnant yet. |
Did you know that you can use wine as one of the pregnancy tests at home? All you need for this is a wine and urine sample collected in the morning.
| Method | Positive Sign | Negative Sign |
| Mix wine and urine in equal amounts in a cup. Now, observe the changes that follow. | If the wine changes in colour, then it indicates that you are pregnant. | If there is no change in wine colour, then consider that you are not pregnant yet. |
This test is considered to be one of the easiest and accurate home remedies for a pregnancy test. All you need for this test is a container, canned tuna, white vinegar and a sample of your urine collected first thing in the morning.
| Method | Positive Sign | Negative Sign |
| Extract juice from tuna and add it to the container. Mix the same amount of vinegar into it. Let it sit for a day then, add a urine sample into it. | If the mixture gives out a dark green colour, then you are pregnant. | If you see a yellow colour formation, then you can assume that you are not pregnant yet. |
When you are pregnant, your basal body temperature or the lowest temperature your body attains when you are resting is quite high when compared to normal times. So, this test proves to be helpful to check your pregnancy status at home. All you need is a basal body thermometer.
| Method | Positive Sign | Negative Sign |
| Place a basal body thermometer under your tongue for a few seconds. While you are at it, make sure to do this as soon as you wake up in the morning. | If the temperature is 37 °C or 98.6 °F, then it may indicate that you are pregnant. | A temperature lower than this may indicate you are not yet pregnant. |
Also Read: Exercise During Pregnancy – Benefits And Safety
In addition to using the natural ingredients available in your kitchen cupboard, you can do home pregnancy tests using certain chemically laden ingredients commonly available in every household. As a bonus, find the answer to your burning question – how to test pregnancy at home using homely products.
This is the latest addition to the homemade pregnancy test list as toothpaste was not available around the time our grandmothers took the test. For this method, you can only use white toothpaste for accurate results. Coloured toothpaste may contain additional chemicals that may interfere with the results. All you need for a pregnancy test at home with toothpaste is a clean bowl, two tablespoons of white toothpaste and urine collected early in the morning.
| Method | Positive Sign | Negative Sign |
| Mix two tablespoons of toothpaste and a tablespoon of urine in a bowl. | If the toothpaste turns blue and becomes frothy, you are pregnant. | When toothpaste does not react with the urine, you are not pregnant. |
Note: Although this test appears to be effective, you can never rely on it as we do not know the exact quantity of urine to be added to the toothpaste nor do we know the amount of time we have to wait for the reaction to happen.
This is an easy and quick test that you can do at home with no hassle. All you need is soap. It can be of any type, brand, or ingredient. In addition, you need a wide bowl and sample of the first urine of the day.
| Method | Positive Sign | Negative Sign |
| Place the soap in a wide bowl and pour in two tablespoons of urine over the soap. | If the soap reacts with urine to produce bubbles and froth, you are pregnant. | If you observe no reaction, you are not pregnant. |
This is just as convenient as soap and toothpaste tests. You can use any shampoo and you do not need any special tool for the test. All you need is water, a sample of first urine collected fresh in the morning, two drops of shampoo, and a clean bowl to mix all the ingredients.
| Method | Positive Sign | Negative Sign |
| Mix two drops of shampoo and water in a clean bowl. Whisk gently to avoid frothing. Add urine and wait for it to react. | If the shampoo begins to bubble and froth, you are pregnant. | If you see no reaction, you are not pregnant. |
Note: Be careful while mixing the shampoo and water. Mix it gently to avoid any froth formation. Froth would interfere with the test and ends up giving you incorrect results.
Dettol can be found in every Indian’s home. It is the antiseptic medicine we turn to when we bruise ourselves. Did you know that you can also use this for the home pregnancy test? To begin with, you need a clean glass, a tablespoon of Dettol, and a sample of the first urine of the day.
| Method | Positive Sign | Negative Sign |
| Mix one spoon of Dettol with three spoons of urine. They must be in a 1:3 ratio. Wait for five to seven minutes. | If your urine separates from Dettol and forms a different layer, then you are pregnant. | If urine and Dettol mix and there is no separation of the two, then there is no pregnancy. |
This Chinese ingredient does not only add flavours to the food dishes but also has proved to be a useful ingredient in DIY pregnancy tests. You can simply use the affordable white vinegar available in the market for this test. In addition, you will need a urine sample collected in the morning and a clean glass to mix the two.
| Method | Positive Sign | Negative Sign |
| Take vinegar in the clean glass and slowly add the urine sample to it. | In the case of pregnancy, there will be a change in the colour of the solution. | In case there is no change in the colour of the solution, you are not pregnant yet. |
If you want quick results with an easy method, then bleaching powder is your go-to option. For this test, you need bleaching powder, a urine sample collected in the morning and a clean glass to mix the two.
| Method | Positive Sign | Negative Sign |
| Drop bleaching powder into the glass and pour the collected urine sample into it. | If you notice bubble and froth formation and a lot of frizzing as soon as the urine touches the bleaching powder, you are pregnant. | If there is no bubbling and frothing, you are not pregnant. |
Note: Please avoid inhaling the fumes coming out of the above reaction as they are toxic and harmful for you. So, make sure you maintain a safe distance.
Also Read: 11 Superfoods to Eat During Pregnancy
Many women have reported that they became pregnant even though they had used contraceptives or taken the pill. Contraceptives are not always full-proof and there are many reasons why they can fail. Some of these are:
Also Read: Can You Get Pregnant Without Having Sex? Debunking Pregnancy Myths
Most women avoid going to a doctor until they are well within a few months of their pregnancy. This is not recommended at all since there can be several complications during a pregnancy that needs to be tended to by a medical professional. Therefore, it is always advisable to consult a doctor regarding your pregnancy at the earliest chance possible.
All the above tests have been used by many women who wished to know their status of pregnancy in private. But you have to bear in mind that there are times when you may not get accurate results from the above tests. In such a scenario, it is advised to take more than one of the above tests. In case nothing is working for you, you should get a blood test in the doctor’s lab, which will not only indicate whether you are pregnant or not but also how far you are in pregnancy.
Once you check positive for pregnancy with your home pregnancy test or store-bought kits here are a few things that you need to do to prevent feeling stressed or overwhelmed as you are about to embark on a new phase in your life:
Break the news to your family and partner
Fix an appointment with a healthcare provider to discuss the next steps forward
Make an appointment with prenatal care to schedule an ultrasound at the earliest and a few mandatory lab tests
Focus on yourself and start following a healthy diet, exercising regularly, taking prenatal vitamins and getting adequate rest
Take some time to adjust to the news whether it be following social media distancing or going on a short trip somewhere, you should not feel burdened and overwhelmed
Missing your period is not always a sure-shot indication of pregnancy. It can happen if you are going through hormonal imbalances if you are stressed, if you have been dieting or are engaging in over-exercising. Additionally, some other indications that you or your partner may be pregnant are:
Fatigue
Morning sickness
Breasts may undergo changes wherein they become tender, swollen and heavier
Cramping along with spotting
Feeling light-headed
Frequent urge to urinate
Becoming extremely sensitive to smells
Once you are sure that you are pregnant, you will need to implement a few dietary changes to prevent yourself from falling ill during this time. Some of these are:
Do not eat raw or uncooked meat and fish such as sushi
Do not consume any unpasteurised dairy product
Restrict your caffeine intake to one-two cup every day
Start consuming prenatal vitamins such as iron or folic acid supplements
Immediately stop consuming alcohol and quit smoking
Consider having more protein, orange juice, beans, lentils, green and leafy vegetables and fortified cereals and bread
Drinking excessive water may dilute the concentration of hCG in the urine, potentially affecting the sensitivity of the test. For best results, use the first-morning urine sample when taking a home pregnancy test.
Yes, stress, hormonal fluctuations and certain medical conditions can mimic pregnancy symptoms. It’s essential not to rely solely on symptoms alone to confirm pregnancy. Using a home pregnancy test or consulting with a healthcare provider can provide accurate results and help rule out other underlying causes of symptoms.
For the most accurate results, it’s best to take a home pregnancy test after a missed period or as indicated in the test’s instructions. Some tests may be sensitive enough to detect pregnancy a few days before the expected period. If unsure, wait a few days and retest or consult with a healthcare professional.
Early pregnancy signs can appear within the first few weeks after conception. Some women may experience symptoms like fatigue, nausea, breast tenderness and frequent urination during this time. However, individual experiences may vary, and not all women will exhibit these early signs.
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.
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Healthcare is self-care. So, in honour of World Health Day on April 7, we have answered some of the most pressing questions Indians have about health and healthcare.
The mantra for healthy living can be boiled down to 3 points:
It doesn’t cost a fortune to live healthily:
Only if you have an active lifestyle and use up a lot of calories, will high-calorie food be good for you.
Opt for low glycaemic index and low glycaemic load foods such as oats, milk, chickpeas and carrots instead.
There is both ‘good’ cholesterol (HDL) and bad cholesterol (LDL). Higher HDL levels reduce plaque build-up in the blood vessels. Stay active, quit smoking, control diabetes and avoid obesity to boost HDL.
High cholesterol levels in themselves may not show any symptoms but can lead to an increase in other medical problems such as cardiac issues, obesity and fatty liver.
The first actual sign of high BP may be a stroke or a heart attack. So it’s important to keep track of BP through regular checkups.
Also Read: What to Avoid When Taking Glutathione: Expert Recommendations for Safe Use
Systolic blood pressure higher than 180 and diastolic BP higher than 110, require immediate medical attention.
Sugar consists of empty calories and provides no health benefits whatsoever. On the other hand, too much sugar can lead to obesity, metabolic issues and cardiac issues.
Higher levels of protein (more than 1-2 gms per kg of body weight per day) can lead to health complications including higher uric acid levels, digestive problems, or even kidney and liver problems.
Content reviewed by –
Dr. Animesh Choudhary
Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
Your period date is close and you notice light bleeding in your underwear. But instead of the colour red, the blood is pinkish-brown? Congratulations, you might be pregnant. Women trying to conceive a baby might confuse this happy sign of early pregnancy for period onset but we’re here to explain to you why implantation bleeding might look similar but is completely different from menstrual periods.
In this blog, we look at understanding what implantation bleeding is, what causes it, the symptoms of implantation bleeding to help you differentiate it from a period and what should you do next.
Did You Know?
Implantation bleeding – typically defined as light spotting or a small amount of bleeding that occurs about 10 to 14 days after conceiving a baby – is a normal sign of early pregnancy.
Implantation bleeding happens after a sperm fertilizes your egg which implants itself into the lining of the uterus to become an embryo, causing a little bleeding.
Since this usually happens around the time of your menstrual cycle, you may confuse implantation bleeding for a light period and not realize you’re pregnant.
Some people may not experience any implantation bleeding, while some may have a light period, like bleeding for 2-3 days; this is usually considered normal, except when it is accompanied by persistent cramping or pain.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D. in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology
Since women have different kinds of blood flow during their menstrual period, it’s hard to point out exact differences between implantation bleeding and a period. However, there are three key differences women can use to differentiate an implantation bleeding from a period:
Implantation bleeding is never enough to fill a pad or tampon like a menstrual period. Colour: Menstrual bleeding is typically a bright to dark red and will look like what you typically experience during your monthly period. Implantation bleeding is a much lighter hue, typically a very light pink or light rust colour.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka – MBBS, MD(Pediatrics)
Some of the other early signs of pregnancy may overlap with implantation bleeding symptoms, so take a pregnancy test or consult a doctor if you notice any of the following signs:
Implantation bleeding is one of the important early pregnancy symptoms and tends to happen before the onset of morning sickness. Implantation bleeding timing isn’t as long as your period and it’s lighter inflow. Women who are expecting their first pregnancy are more likely to spot or bleed than women who are used to egg attachment.
Also Read: Sperm Cramp: Causes, Symptoms, And Being Informed About Men’s Health
All in all, implantation bleeding timing lasts for anywhere between a couple of hours to three full days and has a very light blood flow, sometimes even a light discharge. Unlike period blood that’s bright or dark red, implantation bleeding colour is something between pink and brown.
Women experiencing implantation bleeding may experience other early symptoms of pregnancy like morning sickness, lower backaches, mild or no cramps, tender breasts and others. But many of these can also be PMS symptoms or ovulation symptoms and you may not be pregnant.
If you’re not sure whether you’re having implantation bleeding or your period, it’s best to take a pregnancy test or talk to your doctor. Pregnancy tests can be taken at home using urine pregnancy test kits or you can book a blood test for pregnancy from the lab. It may be difficult to detect a pregnancy too early after conception, hence chances of false-negative results exist. There can be multiple reasons for irregular, missed periods or spotting. Consult a doctor for the best advice and understanding of the way forwards.
Also Read: Can You Get Pregnant On Your Period? Exploring Fertility Myths
Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.Resources
What you consume during pregnancy has an impact on both your health and the health of your baby. Doctors always recommend a healthy diet and lifestyle during pregnancy. Healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, nuts can help you satisfy your nutritional needs. However, you can’t just eat any fruit or vegetable, certain fruits and vegetables aren’t safe to eat during pregnancy. It is also important to know what not to eat during pregnancy.
While most fruits provide the vitamins and nutrients your body requires throughout pregnancy, especially when the fetus experiences a development spurt, some fruits may be harmful to your health. Some fruits have been documented to affect the baby’s health, while others can cause a miscarriage. Here’s a list of foods to avoid during pregnancy.
Fruits are an essential part of nutrition during pregnancy. Some people think that Tamarind and Pineapple should not be consumed during pregnancy. Experts say there is no science-backed explanation for this. However, moderation is the key. Excess citrus fruits can cause other problems related to acidity and indigestion.
Unripe papaya is said to be harmful to pregnant women and should be avoided in all trimesters. It is best to talk to a doctor or dietician about foods to avoid during pregnancy as the list may differ based on your health conditions.
Also Read: What is Anterior Placenta: A Comprehensive Insight into Maternal Health
These are some food items that are unsafe to be eaten during pregnancy. Every essential nutrient (both macro and micro) should be consumed in adequate quantities throughout the pregnancy. This will give your growing baby the proper nourishment and aid healthy development. Increase the number of fruits in your diet. If you don’t like large fruit dishes, you can eat a few with each meal. Stale, left-over, unwashed, undercooked food should be strictly avoided. Freshly prepared food and hygienic preparation methods should be incorporated into every expecting mom’s kitchen.
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.
Since the baby is completely reliant on the mother’s milk for the first six months of infancy, its benefits are said to last even beyond adulthood. Therefore, breastfeeding mothers are often cautious of the foods and liquids they take.
Since most of the dietary restrictions from pregnancy are eased for breastfeeding moms, your new diet can include foods and beverages you weren’t allowed to eat. In today’s blog, we will look at the best diet for lactating mothers, including the foods to avoid while breastfeeding and let’s find if there is a way to increase breast milk quickly.
The only way to know which foods to avoid while breastfeeding is by trial and error. Keep a food journal to see what you eat and how the baby responds to the breast milk during that time. It may take 4-6 weeks for the baby’s allergic symptoms to go away, so make sure you consult a registered dietitian experienced with food allergies to avoid any mishaps.
There is a widespread belief that the food eaten by a breastfeeding mother may affect the milk characteristics including the flavour of the milk and that chemicals in human milk might be passed on from the mother or wet nurse and have long-lasting effects on the kid. Infants may benefit from a variety of rich chemosensory experiences from human milk, which is flavoured by substances consumed such as alcohol, mint, vanilla, and garlic.
Dr. Siddharth Gupta, MD
After the first 6 months of maternity, your baby can eat foods other than breast milk, allowing you to cut back on your calorie intake. If you are searching for tips to increase breast milk quickly, remember there is no special food for that. Consuming a healthy, nutritious, balanced diet with good hydration should help- you. Check the list below:
According to a recent study, breastfeeding mothers who ingested garlic daily, had infants ingesting more milk when compared with others. This has made everyone believe that garlic potentially enhances the flavour of the milk that infants cherish.
Dr. Rajeev Singh, BAMS
Also Read: Foods to Avoid While Breastfeeding: A Comprehensive Mother’s Guide
Fenugreek seeds are a good source of fibre, omega-3 fatty acids, B vitamins, iron, calcium and antioxidants. Increase breast milk production by adding 1 tsp of soaked fenugreek three times/day in your daily diet and see an increase in breast milk.
Garden Cress Seeds / Halim/ Aliv for breast milk. One of the amazing galactagogues helps in boosting the hormone prolactin which indirectly helps in breast milk production.
Add garden cress seeds in milk or take it in water or have it as ladoo after talking to your doctor.
Shatavari, also a well-known galactagogue, is one of the popular tablets for increasing breast milk commonly used in India and China. The ayurvedic herb is known to be helpful for breastfeeding mothers. Lactating mothers should talk to their doctor before using Shatavari in the form of powder and liquids or incorporating them into smoothies.
All in all, keep the diet for lactating mothers rich in proteins, iron and zinc. Replace unhealthy snacks with fruits, dark greens and yellow vegetable foods to increase breast milk quickly. Avoid food that is very oily, spicy or difficult to digest. Do not take any over-the-counter medication, herbal supplements or even ointments without consulting your doctor. Smoking, alcohol and excessive caffeine intake are not advised during lactation. Depending on the dietary preferences of the lactating mother, vegan diets may need additional supplements like B12 to avoid certain deficiencies in the baby.
Breastfeeding requires extra calories, so if the lactating mother has lost all her baby weight, make sure the foods for lactating mother have an extra 500-600 calories per day. Lastly, many women get dehydrated after breastfeeding, so make sure to drink plenty of water and fluids to satisfy your thirst. Drink a glass of water every time before you breastfeed. Watch for an association of any unusual symptoms like excessive crying due to abdominal pain in a baby with a particular type of food. Discuss with your doctor and a registered dietician to understand the best diet plan for breastfeeding mothers.
Also Read: Can Men Lactate? Unveiling the Surprising Biological Possibilities
Disclaimer: The information included on this site is for educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional. Because of unique individual needs, the reader should consult their physician to determine the appropriateness of the information for the reader’s situation.
Just as each woman is unique, so is her pregnancy and onset of labour. Delivery symptoms (signs that delivery time is nearby) can differ from one woman to another and may change from one pregnancy to the next for the same woman. It can take hours or even days to feel the symptoms of labour pain in the 9th month.
The latent phase or the earliest signs of labour is when the cervix becomes soft and thin and starts opening (dilating) for the baby to be born. In today’s blog, we will look at the most common symptoms of labour pain in the 9th month and some effective tips for expecting moms.
Although it is difficult to precisely predict the onset of labour or how long a woman’s labour will last, there are a few common signs of labour that are initiated when the fetus produces certain hormones. Here are 5 popular signs of labour every expecting mother should know:
One of the lesser know signs of labour experienced early on by first-time pregnant mothers is what doctors refer to as “lightening”. When the baby is preparing for birth, it slowly moves into a head-down position. This can happen anywhere between a few hours to a few days before labour begins.
Lightening eases the pressure on a mother’s diaphragm and makes it easier for her to breathe, but it also puts more pressure on her pelvis and bladder. Mothers who have previously given birth, may or may not have this delivery symptom until right before labour begins. Either way, the mother’s belly may appear lower and more protruding and result in frequent bathroom visits.
Towards the end of pregnancy, these symptoms of labour pain get stronger and more frequent. Contractions help push the baby down through the birth canal and ultimately help the mother to push the baby out into the world.
If the pregnant woman is having more than six contractions every hour or every contraction is less than five minutes apart for more than an hour or two, the baby is on its way.
An unborn baby in the uterus is surrounded by a protective liquid called amniotic fluid. When this amniotic fluid sac ruptures, the mother experiences a gush of liquid or in some cases a slow trickle, we call this type of discharge before labour a water break.
For some women, water breaking signs may not happen at all, in which case an obstetrician or midwife will break it during the delivery, while for others the water may break during labour or some time before it. Once the mother experiences water breaking signs, the baby is no longer protected by the amniotic sac and is vulnerable to infections, so make sure you head to the hospital or call your doctor right away.
Inform your doctor immediately if the waters are smelly or coloured and if you’re losing blood, as this could mean you and your baby need urgent attention.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.
A pregnant woman may notice an increase in a type of discharge before labour’s onset or several days before it. The vaginal discharge which comes when the plug of mucus from your cervix (entrance to your womb or uterus) comes away, is a mix of pink, brown and slightly red in colour, indicating cervix dilation symptoms.
The onset of labour increases the pressure or cramping in her pelvic and rectal areas, causing pain in the abdominal area and lower back. In addition, some pregnant women may experience delivery symptoms like vomiting or have frequent loose stools at the beginning of labour.
Women will often self-present to obstetrical triage with concern for the onset of labor. Common chief complaints include painful contractions, vaginal bleeding/bloody show, and fluid leakage from the vagina.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
All in all, contact your doctor or maternity clinic if you experience the signs of labour mentioned above. Symptoms of labour pain in the 9th month can be painful and exhausting of all trimesters, so make sure to stock the pantry with your favourite snacks and (isotonic) healthy drinks that can help keep her energy levels up.
The birthing partner can also help relax the mother with a pregnancy self-care routine made up of warm baths, back massages and other stress-relieving activities.
If you’re experiencing any signs of labour and you’re fewer than 37 weeks pregnant, be sure to call your doctor away as they could be a sign of preterm labour (labour before 37 weeks of pregnancy
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.
Also Read: How To Wash Out Sperm To Prevent Pregnancy: A Comprehensive Contraception Guide
Lastly, if the pain is too intense at the beginning of labour, breathing exercises with your birthing partner are extremely helpful in dealing with contractions once they get more painful and frequent.
Stay positive and follow your doctor’s instructions at every step.
Pharmeasy Tips– If you are excessively anxious and worried about the birthing process and labour pain, follow these tips-
Also Read: 11 Superfoods to Eat 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.
PCOS is a very common hormonal disorder that affects women of reproductive age. Symptoms of PCOS vary greatly from one person to another. Some girls may face a tough time during periods, during puberty or while planning pregnancy while others may not. Having a baby with the partner they love is a precious dream for most women, but some women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) may have to overcome certain challenges to achieve a healthy pregnancy. According to the World Health Organization (WHO) more than 116 million women (3.4% of the population) are affected by PCOS worldwide, so if you are struggling to get pregnant with PCOS, know that you are not alone and it’s more common than you think.
Despite the difficulties, with the right treatment and lifestyle changes, you can manage your odds of getting pregnant with PCOS. In this blog, we will look at both natural and medical remedies for PCOS related pregnancy.
Insulin sensitising treatments as insulin resistance is main problem in PCOS is very important. Once the insulin resistance decreases , automatically fertility improves and many will conceive naturally. Consult your obstetrician for more information.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD
If you have tried for a baby for 12 months without success (or six months if you are aged 35 or over) you can seek medical options that aid PCOS pregnancy. The three most effective ways that your doctor may suggest for getting pregnant with PCOS quickly are:
If you have irregular or sporadic periods, it’s likely that you are not ovulating regularly. Ovulation induction (OI) is the first line of medical treatment in getting pregnant with PCOS. Your doctor may prescribe you a hormone medication (tablets or injections) to stimulate the ovaries for the egg to release and fertilize, either during intercourse or through intra-uterine insemination (IUI).
The second line of medical treatment in getting pregnant with PCOS is Artificial insemination, which is sometimes called intrauterine insemination (IUI). The medical procedure involves inserting the male partner’s (or a donor’s) sperm into the woman’s uterus at or just before the time of ovulation. If the woman has irregular menstrual cycles, IUI needs to be performed in combination with ovulation induction (OI), else it can be done during a natural menstrual cycle.
If a woman with PCOS struggles to get pregnant despite the former two medical procedures, she may need a more invasive fertility treatment called In-vitro fertilization (IVF). An IVF treatment cycle has five key stages:
1. Hormone stimulation using fertility drugs to produce multiple eggs
2. Egg retrieval in an ultrasound-guided procedure under light anaesthesia
3. Embryo development by adding sperms to the eggs in the laboratory for embryos to form
4. Embryo transfer by placing the embryo in the uterus where it may implant and grow into a baby.
5. Clinical pregnancy verified by ultrasound at approximately six to seven weeks into the pregnancy.
Miscarriage is very commonly seen in pregnancy if a person suffers from PCOS. With the right care and treatment, conception and a healthy pregnancy are completely possible.
Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.
Also Read: Benefits of Maca Root for Females: Research-Backed Insights into Its Effectiveness
According to the international evidence-based guideline for the assessment and management of PCOS, the first step toward improving a woman’s chances of pregnancy and having a healthy baby is adopting a healthy lifestyle. Here’s a list of the best lifestyle tips on how to manage PCOS naturally and get pregnant:
Regardless of whether you suffer from PCOS or not, being in the best possible health before trying for a baby is crucial for higher chances of a healthy pregnancy. Not everyone with PCOS will face a problem in getting pregnant. If you are finding it difficult to conceive, consult your gynaecologist and an endocrinologist for the right advice.
Want to boost fertility naturally? Check out Black Cohosh: Benefits, Dosage, and Side-Effects
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.
Do not want to get pregnant right now? Read on to understand the methods to avoid pregnancy.
Unwanted pregnancy can be a nightmare and may affect your life in many ways. It is best to be aware of the methods for safe sex to avoid any such instances. Condoms, contraceptive pills, depots and intrauterine devices are the recommended methods of avoiding pregnancy while maintaining fertility to help you plan pregnancy in future. There are some natural ways to avoid pregnancy that can be followed along with any of the above-mentioned methods for added safety.
If you have planned your family already and do not desire pregnancy in future, talk to your doctor about procedures like- tubectomy and vasectomy.
The most obvious symptom that you’re pregnant is if you haven’t had your period in a while. By the time you miss a period, you are about 4 weeks pregnant, as you can see from the dating information. You will, however, have conceived only around two weeks before your period was due. Take a pregnancy test when in doubt.
Prevention of pregnancy is possible only during the first five days of unprotected sex when you take morning-after pills.
Dr Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D. in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology
You may have also experienced other changes in your body, such as nausea, exhaustion or tenderness in your breasts. Some early pregnancy symptoms, such as mood swings and headaches, might be mistaken for premenstrual symptoms and you may also have bleeding or cramping. You may not even be aware that you’ve skipped a period.
It is difficult to know exactly what to do when you don’t know how to prevent pregnancy. Here are a few popular methods known to avoid pregnancy:
If you don’t know how to avoid pregnancy naturally, natural contraceptives might be of interest to you. Natural contraception methods are referred to as “natural” since they are not mechanical and do not involve any pills or devices. Instead, during the time when an egg is accessible to be fertilised by a sperm, these ways to avoid pregnancy demand that a man and a woman do not have sexual intercourse.
Fertility awareness methods (FAMs) are based on a woman’s ability to predict when she ovulates each month. To use a FAM, you must be aware of the signs and symptoms that indicate ovulation has happened or is likely to happen.
Doing a pregnancy test from the first day of your missed period, or at least 21 days after unprotected sex if you have irregular periods, can help you detect pregnancy if you suspect the chances of that. Please remember, no method of contraception is 100% successful in preventing unwanted pregnancies.
Dr Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D. in Clinical Pharmacology and Toxicology
Here are some methods-
If you already have some form of protection in place, this method adds an extra layer of security. The ovulation days, which normally occur two weeks before your menstruation, can be avoided. It’s a good idea to work with a fertility specialist to track your ovulation days and plan your intercourse properly. The first seven and last seven days of your cycle are usually considered safe but this method should never be relied on alone as there are chances of variation in ovulation and menstrual cycles.
You can start recording your basal body temperature once your menstruation is over. The temperature begins to rise when ovulation begins and peaks on the day of ovulation. If you don’t have any intercourse during this time, you can avoid getting pregnant.
In the days coming up to ovulation, a woman’s body produces a clear, jelly-like fluid. Fertilization of egg (pregnancy) can be avoided by abstaining from sex at and 5 days before this time. Because sperms from previous intercourse can stay in the body for up to 5 days.
Calendar method and using condoms together provide the best protection from pregnancy. For emergency contraception, consult your doctor before taking the pills.
Dr. M.G. Kartheeka – MBBS, MD(Pediatrics)
Natural methods for preventing undesired pregnancy are not at all as reliable and successful as condoms, contraceptive tablets or other medical contraceptive devices, as stated at the beginning of the article. The safest approach is to practise safe sex and also adopt an additional safe mode of contraception that suits you best. Consult your doctor so that you can move forward without fear or anxiety.
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.
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