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Basal Body Temperature (BBT): Tracking, Charting & More
Tracking and interpreting basal body temperature is one of the methods employed by women who want to use natural contraception methods. It is also an indicator of the most fertile period for women who are aiming to conceive. This article helps you understand the ‘why’ and ‘how’ of the process, and guide you in creating a basal body temperature chart for yourself.
What Is Basal Body Temperature (BBT)?
Basal body temperature (BBT) is the lowest body temperature that is attained in a 24-hour period. This would obviously be when you are at rest. A thorough pattern obtained by a few months reading of your BBT will give you a better picture of your ovulation period and timings.
You should measure your BBT before you do any physical activity that might alleviate your body temperature. Ovulation may slightly raise your BBT levels,so noting down your BBT over time may reveal the corresponding variations. That is what makes the BBT a natural method to keep track of your menstrual cycle, especially if you are trying to get pregnant. If you measure your temperature after performing some physical activity, the false and somewhat higher value of BBT can result in wrongly identifying the phase of the menstrual cycle.
BBT levels are known to hike slightly during ovulation. Therefore, recording your temperature over a period of time will show you a pattern and variations whenever they occur. This way, you will be able to keep track of your menstruation cycle which is very helpful if you are trying to get pregnant.
How to Track BBT?
So, how do you measure basal body temperature? Let’s start with the basics first, by learning about the device used to measure it, which is a BBT thermometer.
Basal thermometers or BBT thermometers are recommended over digital thermometers to measure BBT as they are sensitive enough to record the most minute changes that occur in your body as compared to a regular thermometer. Use it to take your temperature the moment you wake up, even before placing your foot on the floor. Since BBT is usually recorded for a 24 hour period, try to wake up at approximately the same time every day for an accurate recording. This could also help regularise your sleep as an added advantage!
The usual value of BBT ranges from 97.2 to 97.7 degrees Fahrenheit,and ovulation could cause an increment in your normal recording by 0.5 to 1 degree. This would last until your period starts and is what will really help you confirm your ovulation. Your BBT could show some spiking on other days apart from your days of ovulation. However, this would only be for a day or two. Once you ovulate, your BBT tends to be at a higher observed value for all readings from that day until you menstruate.
In case you get pregnant after ovulation, BBT would remain high throughout your pregnancy, thus satisfying the condition that it would remain high until your uterus sheds again.
How Does a BBT Chart Help?
Maintaining a chart can make an otherwise seemingly tedious task interesting. It gives you a graph on joining the dots to see the spikes clearly. This kind of a chart can even help your obstetrician diagnose any fertility or other issues related to your menstrual cycle. Moreover, you can boost your chances of conceiving if you keep a track of certain factors related to your cycle on a daily basis.
What Is Cervical Mucus (CM)?
Cervical mucus is the vaginal discharge which is secreted by the cervix and its production is stimulated by the hormone oestrogen. The appearance and quantity of cervical mucus keeps changing depending on your menstrual cycle and on your moods or sexual activity. Most importantly, it protects against infection and irritation.
The consistency, colour and odour of vaginal discharge vary from person to person. However, generally, the colour varies from clear to white to slightly off-white, and the odour from mild to non-existent. There are also patterns observed based on the stage of the menstrual cycle:
Soon after your period, there is very little to no vaginal discharge (known as the ‘dry days’) because of severely reduced oestrogen activity
After this, you may have a thick discharge (also described as cloudy)
As you progress towards ovulation, the discharge becomes softer and more liquid in form, allowing for optimum sperm travel (also called the ‘egg white’ stage)
After ovulation, the discharge becomes thicker but lesser under the influence of progesterone
This will be followed by your period, and the cycle continues
Predicting Ovulation Using BBT and CM
BBT combined with CM can be an effective and natural way for you to track ovulation and plan sexual activity accordingly. It could help know the right time to try insemination or avoid it if you are looking at natural methods to prevent pregnancy.
The signal for knowing when you are at your peak (fertility wise) is a soft, liquid egg-white discharge suggesting optimum conditions for sperm travel right before your ovulation, followed by an increase in your BBT, indicating ovulation.
Noting your CM with your BBT would be a good idea to take charge of things. Note that it will take time for you to develop the habit and notice the patterns.
How to Chart BBT and Cervical Mucus?
If you have a relatively regular cycle, you should be able to plan sexual activity from when you notice the CM becoming egg white and stretchy. You must start trying before the increase in BBT if you want to conceive.
It is better to note the quality of your discharge in the morning. Sometimes you might have to insert a finger up your vagina to clearly examine the nature of your discharge.
Chart your CM and BBT recordings from the first day of your period as soon as you wake up.
Recording Your BBT Chart
There are several templates available on the internet to chart your BBT and CM. We have included a few towards the end of this article. Use the following steps to record your BBT and CM:
Begin recording from the first day of your period
Plan to wake up at the same time every day
As soon as you wake up, even before sitting up, take your BBT reading and mark a point against the day’s temperature reading. (Place your thermometer at an arm’s distance.)
Make a note of the date and time
Move to the washroom to examine your mucus quality. You could do this before you use the washroom in the morning. If you are checking after, be sure not to wash it all off. You could even observe the CM on the toilet paper after you wipe
Make a note of the CM based on the key provided in your chart. For example, the chart from White Lotus Clinic (see below) has CM types as P= period; D= dry; S= sticky rice; E= egg whites
As you make recordings, notice that the rise in BBT is usually preceded by the CM turning egg white. The CM turning egg white is when you are most fertile, and a higher BBT will help confirm ovulation.
Phases in BBT Chart
In case you were wondering how to measure basal body temperature, the whole process is explained in a clear manner below. Read through the different phases and know how to mark the chart accordingly.
Women with fairly regular menstrual cycles have two distinct phases in their BBT charts:
Follicular Phase – You are in this phase from the first day of your period until ovulation. Higher oestrogen activity leads to low temperatures in the range of 97.2 to 97.7 degrees Fahrenheit. As you approach mid-cycle, there might be a sudden noticeable drop which signifies ovulation.
Luteal Phase – After the sudden drop in temperature, BBT shows a sudden spike and remains high for the rest of the cycle due to progesterone activity. This is why the spike in BBT confirms ovulation. BBT ranges from 97.7 to 98.3 degrees Fahrenheit during the luteal phase.
For a lot of women, on impregnation, the graph would show a third phase, a second rise in body temperature of about 0.7 degrees Fahrenheit more than in the luteal phase; 7-10 days after ovulation. Check this completed BBT pregnancy chart to see the third phase.
Sample BBT Chart for Reference
Here are a few ovulation chart examples of completed BBT-CM, so you get an idea of what they look like after filling:
Source: White Lotus Clinic
Source: Fertilityfriend.com
How to Read a Basal Body Temperature (BBT) Chart
The answer to the question of how to read a BBT chart is fairly simple and can be explained in a few simple steps. This chart is also called BMT chart (This is for a regular 28 days menstrual cycle).
The temperature remains at low values from day 1 to day 13
On day 14, when ovulation occurs for most women there is a sudden dip (marking the end of the follicular phase)
There is a marked spike on day 15 (beginning of luteal phase)
The days from 16 to the next day 1 show fairly higher temperatures than usual. So, you get a BBT graph at the end of each cycle.
The sample BBT chart showing pregnancy shows a second rise in temperature from Day 25:
Source: Verywell.com
Blank BBT Chart for Printing
Here is a sample template that you can take print out of to make your own BBT-CM chart:
Source: Freeprintablemedicalforms
There are fixed spaces to note every little detail, from the dates covered to the cycle number and specifics for each day of the period. You can note the date, day of the week and the time at which you note the BBT. Mark a dot against the temperature observed. Examine CM type according to the key provided and enter the corresponding letter. Tick or cross the days that you had sex on.
Women tend to lose track of their period and often fumble even when asked about the typical lengths of their periods by the gynaecologist.
A lot of symptoms including susceptibility to cold and digestive sensitivities can often be explained based on your menstrual cycle. Also, natural methods are better than any external intervention to plan your pregnancy.
Understanding your BBT chart will help you take things into your own hands and understand the signals your reproductive system gives you. Tracking your BBT and CM helps you plan better at your own end. Whether or not you are planning to start a family, these indicators will surely be of huge importance to make that call. Read more
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Your 49 Week Old Baby - Development, Milestones & Care
Your baby is at the one-year-old mark! At this stage you might be wondering - does she ever stop moving? It’s like all she does now is crawl or cruise or take her steps without a pause. This is why your baby might be sleeping a little more at night or taking longer naps - she is recovering from burning all that energy. This is a good thing, because sleeping better greatly helps your baby’s physical coordination. Organizing your own schedule to suit her routine might be a good idea, since you don’t want her missing her naps.
49 Week Old Baby’s Development
Around your 49-week-old baby's first birthday, a question frequently asked will be - is she walking yet? Well, your baby may be walking at this stage, or she may not be. The typical age for babies to start walking is between 9-18 months, so if she isn’t yet, it's no big deal. Let her take her time. If she does start walking, she will still be learning how to coordinate her tiny legs to the movement of walking and may not look graceful at first. She will stumble around, holding her arms out for balance. Gradually as she practices, her arms will come down to her sides, and she will depend on her core to give her balance while she walks. Do introduce push toys like baby shopping carts or baby strollers at this time. She will have something to grab onto, and it will give her more incentive to keep walking.
[Also Read: 11 Months Old Baby Development]
49 Week Old Baby's Developmental Milestones
You should watch out for the following 49-week-old baby milestones this week:
Your baby will be able to babble fluently, with all the tones an intonations of a conversation, even though what she is saying is gibberish.
Your baby will be able to bend and pick up things from the floor without losing balance.
Your baby will be able to crawl and cruise confidently and may take her first steps.
Your baby will start to understand ‘yes’ and ‘no’ and may answer with either if you ask her something.
Your baby will be able to say a handful of distinct words along with ‘mama’ and ‘papa.’
Your baby will be able to move at a faster speed when she is crawling or even walking.
Your baby will be more expressive, and you will be able to read the emotions on her face.
[Also Read: 11 Months Old Baby Milestones]
Feeding
You will now be moving towards weaning your baby away from bottles and formula. Ideally, your baby should have a bottle only during sleep time or before a nap. On waking, she should be given milk to drink from a cup, and solid food plays a more prominent role compared to milk feeding at this stage. The hardest part of weaning is to reduce the connection between the bottle and sleep. To make it easier on you, begin with daytime feeds. Gradually reduce the amount of milk you give and aim to end the feed before you settle your baby in his bed. If you are giving her milk from a cup, keep in mind that a baby needs 4-6 serves of dairy per day, so you can replace milk with other dairy products as well. To withdraw the bottle from your baby at night, try and introduce other distractions like songs and cuddles before bedtime, along with reducing the amount of milk. Soon, your baby will turn to these distractions and pay less attention to the bottle. Weaning is gradual, so you need to give your baby time to adjust to these new changes. The goal is to stop bottles around 12 months and move to cow’s milk in place of formula.
[Also Read: 11 Months Old Baby Food]
Sleeping
For breastfed and formula-fed babies, the weaning process is the same. The goal is always to transition from breastfeeding to sleep to falling asleep with a different form of comfort. This will be easier if some other adult other than the mother takes the role of putting the baby to sleep. This is because if it is the breastfeeding mother, then the baby will instinctively seek out for her breast. If it is another adult, like the father or a trusted grandparent, they can use techniques like cuddling, rocking, patting and singing lullabies to put the baby to sleep. If it is hard for you as a mother to hear your baby call for you, make sure to be elsewhere during this process. Avoid giving a bottle at the 12-month mark. As your baby gets familiar with the new bedtime routine of cuddling and singing, she will gradually accept these changes and no longer need the bottle or breastfeeding to sleep. If the transition is too hard on your baby due to things like illness or teething, wait for a few weeks and try again.
[Also Read: 11 Months Old Baby Sleep]
Care Tips for Your 49-week-old Baby
Below are a few ways you can care for your 49-week old baby:
Use a fluoridated toothpaste to clean your baby’s teeth once her first tooth breaks through. Use only a small amount. This can help prevent your child from having tooth decay.
Interact with your baby as much as possible, talk to her constantly, point out things and read to her. This will help her pick up new words and use them more in her babbling.
Transition from bottles to sippy cups when your child approaches her first birthday.
Avoid using any baby talk. Make sure to always use correct words while talking to your baby so she can learn correctly as well.
Include more protein in your baby’s diet, like poultry (without skin), eggs (only yolk), beans, and vegetables like peas. These are good as they are also low in fat and cholesterol.
Tests and Vaccinations
It is recommended to have a doctor’s medical checkup when your child becomes 1-year-old.
1. Tests
The doctor will measure your baby’s height, weight, and head circumference so that he can evaluate your baby’s growth progress. He will also ask you a series of questions about your baby so that he can evaluate your baby’s sleep habits, sight, physical and behavioural development. He may also take a blood test to check if there are any signs of lead poisoning in your baby’s blood.
2. Vaccinations
At the 49-week mark, your baby will need the first dose of the chickenpox vaccine, a final dose of the Hib vaccine, the first dose of the Hepatitis A vaccine, the first dose of the Measles Mumps Rubella vaccine, and the final dose of the Pneumococcal (PCV) vaccine. She should also be administered the final dose of the Hepatitis B vaccine and the third dose of the Polio (IPV) vaccine if not given already.
Games and Activities
You can play the following games and activities with your baby:
Encourage her to walk by gently taking her hands and pulling her to a standing position. This is an activity to make her comfortable with standing.
Play with different toys, like coloured rings moving along a tube or a picture book which has buttons that make noise. This is all to help your baby learn words and sounds and dexterity skills.
Demonstrate activities you know your baby will copy, like talking on a phone or picking up toys and putting them back in the box. She will mimic you and learn the activities.
Join a playgroup and expose your baby to other babies her age. She will learn to socialize and play with them.
[Also Read: 11 Months Old Baby Activities]
When to Consult a Doctor
Consult your doctor on your 49-week-old infant development when you see the following:
If your baby doesn’t respond to her name by 12 months, take her to the doctor for a hearing evaluation.
If your baby is itchy or uncomfortable due to some rash on the skin, consult your doctor as it may be signs of an allergy.
If your baby squints, tilts her head to see better, rubs her eyes often and has difficulty seeing things, consult a doctor to see if your baby has sight problems. Redness, pain, excessive tears and crust in her eyes can also mean pinkeye.
Your baby’s known vocabulary is greater than her spoken one. So, don’t worry, even if she speaks only two words at 12 months, she will understand 25.
Previous Week: 48 Weeks Old Baby
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Interesting Indian Independence Day Information for Kids
India celebrates its independence day on August 15 every year. Independence day is celebrated with much fervour and enthusiasm across the country. People of different ethnicities, religion, caste and gender unite in celebration. But kids of this generation don't know how India achieved independence - there is so much that your kids can learn about India's struggle for independence. Read this article to know some interesting facts about Indian Independence day that your kids can learn.
Video: Interesting Indian Independence Day Information for Kids
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=IaB95wmkemo
When and Why Do We Celebrate Independence Day?
Indian people were done with the British rule and so they decided in 1929 to demand full independence from the British on 26th January 1930. However, the British did not agree to this and went on to rule India until 15th August 1947.
On July 18, 1947, the British had passed a law that stated that on 15th August 1947, India would become an independent country and would cease to be a part of the British Empire. Thus, India gained its freedom on the latter date, and since then, every 15th August is celebrated as India’s Independence Day. It must be noted that the date of 26th January was still remembered and later became the date when India became a republic nation in 1950.
Independence Day is celebrated in remembrance of the sacrifices that our leaders made so that we could live as free citizens and as the masters of our own destiny.
History of Independence Day of India
The British came as traders to India in the 1600’s and were allowed trading rights by the powerful Indian Emperor Jehangir. India was then ruled by the Mughals who were too powerful for the British. It is only later when the Mughal empire disintegrated that the British began to conquer small parts of India. Starting with the battle of Plassey in 1757, the British began expanding rapidly throughout India till 1857.
In 1857, the Indians were fed up of the British, and there was a massive uprising throughout Northern India where Indian leaders of different backgrounds fought against the British. It is famously known as the first battle of Independence, and the British stopped expanding to other territories within India after this.
The British went on to rule India despite the freedom movement. The struggle for freedom brought the nation together. Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation, started many movements to force the British to leave India. By 1945, the British economy was destroyed because of World War 2, and they knew it was only a matter of time before they leave. However, on this happy day, there was also the tragedy of partition where India was divided into India and Pakistan.
How Is 15th August Celebrated in India by Children?
Independence Day is celebrated with great pomp throughout the country. Independence Day is a national holiday in India. But in schools, celebrations usually take place for an hour or two. In schools, children celebrate India's Independence Day by singing patriotic songs, reciting speeches, and dancing on patriotic songs. Songs such as Hum Sab Bhartiya Hain, Vande Mataram, Hum Honge Kamiyab are sung on this Day. The Indian flag is unfurled, kids sing the national anthem. Sweets are distributed in the end. On the 15th of August, the Indian flag is seen in the hand of every child. Kids even ride their cycle around the neighbourhood with the Indian flag majestically fluttering as the cycle picks up speed.
Interesting Facts About Indian Independence Day
Here are some interesting facts about India's Independence Day that you can tell your kids.
When India became independent, it had no national anthem. 'Jana Gana Mana' by Rabindranath Tagore, which was first sung in 1911 was declared the national anthem of India in the year 1950.
When India became independent, it did not have a prime minister, president or even a government. All of this happened only much later when India became a republic nation. During the time of independence, the Governor General was the most important and powerful person in India.
Many parts of India were in fact, different kingdoms during independence. It has been recorded that when India became independent, there were as many as 565 princely states or kingdoms. All of that changed quickly as Sardar Vallabhai Patel, and other leaders used different strategies to incorporate these kingdoms into India. Jammu and Kashmir, Hyderabad, Mysore and Travancore were just some of the big kingdoms that became a part of India after Independence.
India is not the only country that celebrates Independence Day on 15th August. There are others that share the same day as their Independence Day. However, these countries became independent in different years. These countries are Bahrain, North Korea, Congo, Liechtenstein and South Korea.
Goa was a Portuguese colony even after Independence and only became a part of India in 1961.
Officially, the celebration of Independence Day by the Government of India takes place at the Red Fort in New Delhi. Here, the Prime Minister gives a speech to the nation.
The Independence of India also brought about the partition of the country on religious lines. Many people from the Hindu and Muslim community were killed due to the communal tension and hatred, which became prominent during this time. Many have gone on to say that it resulted in the largest human migration in history. However, it must also be remembered that during these tough times, many people risked their lives to save their neighbours from the opposite community.
Mahatma Gandhi, the father of the nation, did not take part in the first Independence Day celebration. He went on a hunger strike so that people stop killing each other due to partition.
The job of carving out the borders of Independent India was given to a man called Cyril John Radcliffe. The irony is that he had never been to India and had been given the challenging task of its division. He was so hurt by the destruction it caused that he refused his salary of 40,000 INR which was a big amount in those days.
Not many people know these facts about Indian Independence Day. Tell these to your child so that he can learn about his country's struggle for independence and respect the nation. If we have missed out on some lesser-known facts about Independence Day, do let us know in the comments!
Also Read:
Independence Day Craft Ideas for Kids
Indian National Flag Facts & Information for Kids
Independence Day Speech for Kids
Independence Day Activities for Kids Read more
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Chorionic Villus Sampling (CVS) Test During Pregnancy
Scientific development has made it possible to detect adverse health conditions in a baby even before birth. There are a range of tests which are carried out at the time of pregnancy in order to determine if the baby is suffering from any diseases or medical condition. Early detection of an adverse medical condition in the baby can allow the doctors to take necessary corrective measures in order to ensure that the baby is born healthy and free of life-threatening conditions.
What is Chorionic Villus Sampling Test?
Chorionic villus sampling test is an antenatal test which is performed to diagnose if the baby has a particular genetic disorder such as the Down’s syndrome or inherited conditions such as thalassaemia and sickle cell anaemia. Chorionic villi are tiny, finger-shaped growths found in placenta, which have the same genetic material as the baby’s cells. The CVS pregnancy test is performed during early pregnancy, usually between the 10th and 13th weeks.
Is CVS Test Applicable to All Pregnant Women?
CVS prenatal test is not a routine test and is offered to be performed under the following conditions:
Abnormal results from a prenatal screening test: If the first-trimester screening result is positive or abnormal, the doctor might recommend getting a CVS done in order to ensure the length of a medical problem in the baby.
A chromosomal abnormality in a past pregnancy: If you have experienced chromosomal abnormality in a past pregnancy, or have a child with Down’s syndrome, you will be offered this test.
Family medical history point towards increased health risk: CVS testing might be recommended if there is a family history of a genetic disorder.
CVS is not recommended to women who have an active sexually transmitted infection, are carrying twins or have experienced vaginal bleeding during pregnancy.
How to Prepare for the Test
Your health care provider will explain the entire procedure of the test in details and ask you to sign a consent form before initiating the procedure. The health care provider will use ultrasound to determine the position of the baby and that of the placenta. Drink lots of water leading to the test as the ultrasound will require a full bladder.
How is the CVS Test Performed
The CVS early pregnancy test is performed by taking a sample of cells, called ‘chorionic villi cells’ from the pregnant woman’s placenta. The sample of cells might be taken from the abdomen or from the cervix.
Sample Taken From Your Abdomen
A long, thin needle is inserted through the abdominal wall into the uterus and a tissue sample will be withdrawn from the placenta into a syringe. The needle does not enter the amniotic sac or go near the baby and the procedure is performed under local anaesthesia.
Sample Taken Through the Cervix
A thin, hollow tube is inserted into the cervix through the vagina. When the catheter reaches the placenta, gentle suction will be used to remove a tissue sample.
After the Procedure
The procedure takes around 10 minutes to perform. Once the test is complete, you will be monitored for an hour in case any side effects, such as heavy bleeding, surface and need immediate attention. Once the formalities are complete, you can go home and rest.
Is the CVS Test Painful?
CVS test is usually described as uncomfortable rather than painful. You might experience stinging sensation and cramps during and after the test has been performed and may have a sore tummy afterwards. Usually, local anaesthesia will be administered before performing the test in the area where the needle is inserted.
What is the Right Time for Performing Chorionic Villus Sampling(CVS) Test?
CVS testing is to be performed between 10th and 13th week of pregnancy. In some circumstances, the testing might be carried out at a later stage of pregnancy. However, the test should not be carried out prior to the 10th week as the risk of CVS causing complications, such as birth defects or miscarriages is higher during this period.
When Do You Get the CVS Test Result
Post CVS testing, two types of laboratory tests are performed on the samples taken from the placenta. The first result is available within a few days, and tells if there is any major chromosome problem. The full results, highlighting the smaller, rarer conditions can take two to three weeks. If the test has been performed to identify a specific disorder, then the results might take up to a month.
Problems That Can Be Faced After the Test
CVS testing involves the use of needles and suction tubes entering the body and this might lead to side effects post the procedure is completed. Following are some of the problems that can surface after the test:
Persistent and severe pain
High temperature
Shivering or chills
Heavy vaginal bleeding
Contractions and cramps
Discharge of clear fluid from vagina
Infection and spotting
Possible Risks Involved with CVS
CVS testing is an invasive procedure which comes with several risks. It is important to weigh the risks vis-à-vis the benefits before agreeing to get the CVS procedure done. Following are some of the common risks of getting the test done:
Bleeding and cramping:
The test procedure can cause heavy vaginal bleeding or spotting and cramps which are similar to menstrual cramps.
Infection:
You may experience uterine infection after the test. Although the situation is rare.
Rh Sensitization:
CVS testing can cause a small amount of your baby’s blood to enter your bloodstream which may cause complications such as Rh sensitization, especially if you are Rh – negative.
Accidental Abortion or Miscarriage:
CVS testing can also lead to the risk of an accidental abortion or miscarriage. The risk of miscarriage on performing CVS is in addition to the miscarriage risk which all women face in early pregnancy due to natural causes. One or two in every hundred women that opt for CVS testing experience miscarriage.
Foetal Limb Deformities:
CVS test may also cause your baby to have missing toes or fingers. However, this risk usually exists in cases where the testing is done before the 10th week of pregnancy.
What Does CVS Pregnancy Test Result Mean?
The CVS test results are estimated to be 99% accurate with very less margin for errors. While CVS can be used to test specific genetic disorders, it cannot test for every birth defect. The CVS pregnancy will either be normal (i.e. negative) or abnormal (i.e. positive).
Normal Results:
When the test results do not show any defect or deficiency, the report is a normal or a negative report. Although the report might not show any defects, it is possible that the child might be born with the condition that was tested for or with another genetic condition.
Abnormal Results:
If the report shows ‘positive’ results, your baby has a condition which was being tested for. There is no cure for most chromosomal conditions and hence, the implications for such disorder will be fully discussed with you.
What to do if the CVS Test Shows an Abnormality?
The implications of an abnormal result will be discussed with you and the possible remedial options will be shared. Since most genetic conditions cannot be treated, you may have the following options:
To continue with the pregnancy and be prepared for taking necessary care of your baby post birth
To terminate your pregnancy, in which case you will have to discuss with the doctor about the advisability of doing so
What are the Alternatives for CVS Test?
Amniocentesis is an alternative for CVS test wherein a sample of mother’s amniotic fluid is taken for testing. Amniocentesis is carried out between 15th to 20th weeks of pregnancy. The advantage of CVS testing is that it is performed at an early stage of pregnancy unlike amniocentesis which is done at the advanced stage of pregnancy.
Things to Consider
Before deciding to get the test done, it is important to consider the risks associated with the test and the outcome which is expected. An individual or a couple should assess and discuss the benefits of the testing thoroughly with your doctor and understand the possible risks clearly.
Taking a well-considered decision about whether a CVS test is required for the successful continuation of the pregnancy will help you take all the necessary precautions.
Also Read: Blood Tests During Pregnancy Read more
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Get the Right Balance of Good and Bad Fats in your Baby’s Diet
Fat is an important energy-producing nutrient in the body. Every baby needs to consume fats as they stimulate growth but the knowledge of good and bad fats is essential for a balanced and healthy diet.
Fats are nutrients present in food which are required by the body to build nerves, hormones and also provide energy. However, if fats are not used up as energy, they get stored in the body inside the fat cells for use in the future.
Even though they give a rich texture and flavor to food, they are high in calories and can cause health problems if consumed in excess. This is why parents must be aware of the difference between the good fats and bad fats.
What are Good Fats?
Good fats are unsaturated fats that may be monounsaturated or polyunsaturated. Our body cannot make polyunsaturated fats, so we need to derive them from food. Good fats produce good cholesterol and reduce bad cholesterol, reducing the risk of heart diseases. Good fats are available in the following foods:
Olive
Avocado
Leafy vegetables
Soy food,Nuts and seeds
Homemade clarified butter (ghee)
Paneer or cottage cheese
Legumes
Breast milk for babies
Good fat helps better development of the brain and eyes in a baby and strengthens their immune system.
What are Bad Fats?
Bad fats are saturated and are known to produce bad cholesterol and increase the risk of heart diseases.
Bad fats can be found in various foods:
Animal meat
Palm oil in fried food like chips and biscuits
Butter
Cakes
Chocolate energy bars
Tips for a Balanced Diet
Breast milk provides babies with the right amount of unsaturated fats.
For better growth, babies should be given full fat food when they are introduced to solids. Avoid skim milk and dairy products .
If the baby is formula fed, consult the doctor to make sure he gets all the good fat in the right proportion.
Feed your child a variety of foods to include a wide range of fats.
Once babies are weaned off breast milk, they should be given vegetable oils in their diet for fatty acids.
Review the child’s daily diet. How much of good and bad fat he consumes daily should be kept track of. The consumption of saturated fats should be very limited.
Carefully read the nutrition content panel mentioned on packaged food before buying
Try to avoid giving any food with bad fats to the baby like butter, meat, etc.
When buying packaged food, choose ones that have a tick mark by the heart foundation implying that they have low trans-fat content.
Try to have a lot of variations in the diet to make it healthier.
Restrict the use of processed food for your baby and make them consume fresh and healthy food containing unsaturated fats
Eating food like ice creams and chocolates should be limited to special occasions.
The word ‘fat’ has a negative connotation, but it helps to know the truth behind different kinds of fats. Include more of the good variety and try to cut down on the bad kind to keep your family fit and healthy! Read more
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4 Tips on Fitness Clothing To Help You Pick Ideal Clothes For Workout
These days, everyone is on the 'train insane' band wagon and that’s amazing! Staying fit and healthy is absolutely necessary and isn't something for just the young ones or the fitness enthusiasts...it's for everybody. However, picking the right workout clothes can be a difficult task and more people than you think get it wrong.
We all want to look and feel great while working out but we also have to be able to stretch and be comfortable, which makes it a tough feat to pick the right workout gear. But there's good news, you can be stylish and have functional clothing at the same time; yes it's possible!
What To Wear To The Gym
There are a few basic things to keep in mind while finding the workout gear that works best for you. So come on, you've got the right mindset already, just take note of a few things before you start:
1. Old, Worn-out Clothes are NOT Okay
A lot of people tend to make this mistake while choosing workout clothes. Baggy, torn, loose clothing can not only kill your workout buzz but make you feel really unsexy and hence lead to demotivation. Plus, baggy clothes can actually be a dangerous option as they could get caught on machines or weights at the gym!
2. Choose The Right Fabric
Choosing breathable fabrics is the way to go while picking workout clothes. There are tons of synthetic fabrics that offer moisture wicking these days. This helps the sweat evaporate quickly and keeps your body feeling cooler. Cotton clothing may be great for summers but is not the best workout option. Cotton absorbs sweat and sticks to the skin. This is why women’s workout clothes in cotton can make you feel heavy and uncomfortably wet. Avoid.
3. Get The ‘Fit’ on Point
Making sure you are wearing properly fitting clothes is a big deal. Loose clothes are okay if it is just mild exercise like walking. But if you are running or cycling it is best to avoid flared pants that could make you trip or could get caught in the pedals. If you are doing yoga, floor exercises or Pilates then pick tighter workout clothes for women. Your clothes need to be stretchy and wick away moisture.
4. Be Careful of Seasonal Changes
Workout clothes change with changing seasons, especially if you work out outdoors. In warmer weather, like we mentioned, moisture wicking fabrics are best. Women’s fitness clothing that is constricting must be avoided as it can get sweaty and hot in there.
In colder weather, remember that you are going to be exercising and raising your body temperature so you will feel warmer in a little while. Wear layers if it is too cold and remove them as your body heats up.
If it is wet or windy, wear a windcheater if you are out for a walk or run. Or, stick to an indoor form of workout on days where you'd rather not get wet. Even windcheaters can get you a wee bit wet.
Also remember that no matter what the weather is like, you are most likely to be sweating so keep tips 1-3 in mind all year round.
The clothes you pick serve more than an aesthetic purpose. They can actually help your workout be more effective and also make you feel lovely! Luckily for all of us, we live in a time where the best fabrics, styles and prints are available to cater to any tastes, sizes or shapes, so we really don't have an excuse for wearing the wrong clothes. They also cater to all budgets! Read more
Sai Prasanthi R L has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
4 hours ago
Q. Hi
what to give 6 months old baby to eat
Sai Prasanthi R L
Mom of a 10 yr 2 m old boy
3 hours ago
A. Hello dear! Once your baby completes 6 months you can start giving small quantities of semi solids like homemade cerelac, mashed bananas, apple puree, ragi and so on. Continue with breastfeeding. Keep Babyhug tummy roll on handy
Dr Muhsina has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
3 hours ago
Q. now I am in 30 weeks of pregnancy I have vomiting.I couldn't control what the reasons for this vomiting
Dr Muhsina
Expecting Mom due in 3 months
3 hours ago
A. Some women may have vomiting throughout their pregnancy. The most common reason for vomiting during the third trimester may be gastritis. Make sure you eat small frequent meals, preferably every 2 hours. If your baby's weight during checkups are adequate..u needn't worry much about this. You can also consult your doctor and take anti emetics and PPIs if the vomiting is bothering you or interfering with your daily activities.
Mohammad amin has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. Is it okay is the baby does not pass stool for one day?
Mohammad amin
Guardian of a 2 yr 11 m old boy
16 mins ago
A. yes it's ok
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. Is it okay if my baby does not pass stool for one day?
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
41 mins ago
A. no need to worry about the frequency and colour of the stool if the consistency of the stool is semi solid to solid.
also there is no need to worry about the smell of the stool if the consistency is normal.
you have to meet the doctor if it is watery inconsistency or hard consistency otherwise semi solid to solid stool is normal.
also passing stool after taking food is normal. r
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
1 hour ago
Q. Q.Asktheexperta# I m an expecting mother of 29 yrs. LMP 10 Feb 2024 . my husband's HPLC report shows thalassemia minor trait while mine is hb d Punjab trait . can we continue with this pregnancy ??
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
1 hour ago
A. Well you should check with your gynaecologist for that she has to go through all the reports and the issues that you are facing you and your husband and accordingly she can tell you what is the situation how your child is going because lot of things depend upon how the child is growing
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 1 month
5 mins ago
Q. Hi doctor, I had scan on 33 weeks 2 day, it stated that AC and HC Is <2.3% which is corresponding to 31 weeks. So overall growth of baby avg is 31 week and 2 days.
will there be any issue with the baby.I have attached my report
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
3 mins ago
A. Doesn’t seem like it I think it’s going fine and pleasant -1 or two weeks is completely fine during the time of pregnancy further more whatever doubts you have you can take it up with your gynaecologist is they would be able to give you proper clarity and whatever doubt doubts you have explain it to you in a better
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