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Gestational Diabetes in Pregnancy
When a woman is pregnant, her body changes in a lot of ways. Besides the sudden change in hormone levels, there are also other biological factors that change, such as the blood sugar levels. Put simply, gestational diabetes is not uncommon.
Video: Gestational Diabetes
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What Is Gestational Diabetes?
As the name indicates, this is the type of diabetes that occurs in women at the time of gestation that is during pregnancy. Pregnancy causes the blood sugar levels to surge in some women which leads to gestational diabetes. In some women, the insulin levels might drop during pregnancy causing the blood sugar levels to increase. Blood sugar levels in the body are normally kept under control by the body’s natural insulin levels.
Gestational diabetes can occur in women who have normally never had diabetes, and it might get resolved after delivery. Women in their second and third trimesters are more prone to gestational diabetes
Causes of Gestational Diabetes
Fluctuation in insulin levels in the body is the main cause of gestational diabetes. During the process of digestion, , carbohydrates from the foods consumed are broken down to glucose (sugars) in order release energy. This energy is used by the human body to carry out daily activities. Under normal conditions insulin produced in the pancreas helps move this sugar to the cells and prevents rise in sugar levels in the body.
During pregnancy, a membrane called placenta is formed that is responsible for supplying oxygen and nutrients from mother to the delveloping baby. However, along with its normal function, placenta also releases several hormones that tend to interfere with the natural hormonal mechanisms of the mother's body. It is known to disrupt and interfere with the production of insulin as a result of which there is rise in blood sugar levels devoid of enough insulin to break it down. This is the scenario where a mother may develop gestational diabetes.
Another factor associated with gestational diabetes is weight. It is observed that obesity is closely linked to the body being insulin resistant. If the mother is overweight before conception, she may be a high risk candidate for gestational diabetes. Alternatively, keeping a check on weight gain during pregnancy is equally important.
Are You at Risk of Developing Gestational Diabetes?
One in seven women in India are at a risk of developing diabetes during pregnancy. But some women are more at risk than the others. Here are some factors that increase the risk of gestational diabetes:
High BMI: Those who were overweight before pregnancy are more at risk. Women gain extra weight during pregnancy, and already being overweight only makes it difficult for the body to regulate the blood sugar levels.
Rapid Weight Gain During Pregnancy: While the exact relationship between weight gain and gestational diabetes is not clear, experts opine that it is caused by an increase in insulin resistance by affecting the beta cells in the pancreas which are responsible for insulin production. The capacity of the beta cells to secrete insulin reduces, leading to gestational diabetes.
Family Medical History : A family history of diabetes type II, especially if a sibling or the mother had it makes the mother a promising candidate for acquring gestational diabetes in her pregnancy.
Previous Pregnancy History: If you've had diabetes in your past pregnancies, doctors keep you under strict vigilance and monitor you blood sugar levels regularly as the chances of it resurfacing is quite likely.
Age: People who are 25 years or older are at a higher risk of gestational diabetes. Infact, higher the age higher are the chances of susceptibility to gestational diabetes.
Other Medical Conditions: Women with PCOS or a history of PCOS (polycystic ovary syndrome) are susceptible to gestational diabetes as one of the symptomps of this disorder includes increased probability of insulin resistance.
Can I Lower My Chances of Getting Gestational Diabetes?
Whether you belong to the category of women who are at higher risk for gestational diabetes or not, you can definitely lower the risk of acquiring it. Working on your diet and exercise routines can help. Here are some steps to take:
Include more dietary fibre in your meals: This can be done by increasing the intake of whole grains, fresh vegetables and fruits. Increasing the daily fibre intake by 10 gm can reduce the risk of gestational diabetes by around 26%.
Say no to unhealthy food : Cut down the intake of sweet foods and those that are carb-laden. Stay away from unhealthy nibbling to tackle hunger pangs.
Eating frequency: Eating frequent small meals would be a healthier choice than eating large portions in one meal.
Choose wisely: Include a variety of foods so that you get a fair share of all the required daily nutrients in your diet.
Include physical activity in your routine: Staying active can help reduce the risk of diabetes during pregnancy. Swimming and walking are the two most recommended choices for pregnant women. Mild exercises can be chosen based on your health and on how far along you are in your pregnancy. Always consult your doctor before finalising your exercise routine.
Keep a weight check: Maintaining a healthy weight before and after pregnancy is crucial in maintaining healthy blood glucose levels.
Common Signs and Symptoms
There are not many pronounced symptoms that can indicate gestational diabetes,and hence your doctor would suggest a complete health check up at around 24-28th week of your pregnancy as this is the period where women are most likely to be diagnosed with high blood sugar levels. In case you are already at risk owing to factors listed above, this screening is suggested much earlier. However, here are some signs that might come as a warning and if you encounter them, do seek a medical intervention immediately:
Feeling thirsty too often even after adequate consumption of water and other fluids.
Frequent urination.
Feeling excessively exhausted (pregnancy, the third trimester in general, can leave women tired, but unexplained tiredness even when your activity levels are less throughout the day might indicate a possibility of gestational diabetes.)
Dryness of the mouth.
Blurriness in the vision.
Frequent infections .
Several conditions that are common during pregnancy might be signs of gestational diabetes. Pregnancy and diabetes together can leave the pregnant
mother exhausted. Usually, screening for gestational diabetes is done during the second trimester. However, if any of the above-mentioned symptoms are more pronounced, you might want to discuss them with your gynaecologist to decide if you need to be screened for diabetes.
How Does Gestational Diabetes Affect Pregnancy?
Mother's blood sugar level usually restores to normal after their delivery. However , there are certain risks that are prevalant during pregnancy that you must be cautious about.
Preeclampsia: Gestational diabetes impacts are experienced by both the mother and the baby if the condition is not treated. One of the commonly associated side effect of untreated gestational diabetes is preeclampsia. This is a condition which is said to occur mostly in the final trimester. The two main characteristics of preeclampsia include elevated protein levels in the urine which can be found in a routine test and the rise in blood pressure. The condition worsens if not treated on time. The harmful effects include preterm labor and also miscarriage in some rare cases.
Stillbirth: The risk increases when the pregnant mother diagnosed with gestational diabetes carries the baby for more than 40 weeks. In this case the risk of stillbirth increases.
Developing type II diabetes: These are the mothers who are very likely to develop type II diabetes as they grow old.
All the above mentioned complications only indicate the risks that are associated with the untreated cases. Gestational diabetes simply increases the vulnerability to several conditions. But a proper diet and exercise routine can help in most cases.
How Gestational Diabetes Affects the Baby
Sometimes, the effects of gestational diabetes on the baby might be slightly more severe than on the mother. When the placenta interferes with the insulin levels, it in turn, gets affected by the elevated blood sugar levels. In most cases, women with gestational diabetes who receive treatment on time have healthy babies, but leaving the condition untreated might have some impact on the baby:
Macrosomia: Elevated sugar levels in the mother’s blood are passed on to the baby. higher sugar levels in baby’s blood causes baby’s pancreas to react by secreting higher levels of insulin. This sometimes leads to macrosomia, a condition where the foetus weighs 9 pounds or more. Such cases might call for a C-section. If delivered normally, the baby might suffer from minor injuries, birth trauma or shoulder dystocia.
Hypoglycemic baby: Babies might be born with low blood sugar, also called hypoglycaemia, due to the surge in insulin levels.
Breathing problems: Some babies born to a mother with gestational diabetes experience slight difficulties in breathing. Some even acquire respiratory distress syndrome where additional oxygen supply may have to be provided to the baby after birth.
Nutrient deficiency: The baby might carry low levels of magnesium and calcium which may cause spasms, cramps, jitters. These can be tackled with suitable supplements.
Risk of jaundice: These babies are at a higher risk of developing jaundice after birth. This can easily be treated but might make the baby feel weak. The baby may need immediate medical attention.
Type II diabetes: The babies might be at a higher risk of developing type II diabetes when they grow up.
Remember that these are only the extreme effects of the condition. In many cases, babies stay unaffected by mother’s diabetes. A safe option would be to identify the problem at the earliest and keep the blood sugar levels within normal levels not only to ensure your health, but that of your baby too.
Screening Guidelines for Gestational Diabetes
In most cases, gestational diabetes test is performed between weeks 24 and 28 of pregnancy. . Here are the two main tests that help find if the mother has high or low blood sugar during pregnancy. Follow-up tests and additional screening might be added as required based on the results.
Screening glucose challenge test (GCT)- non-fasting test
The patient who appears for this test is given an oral glucose solution. One hour later, a blood sample is drawn to evaluate the blood glucose levels. Higher levels indicate an inability to process the glucose consumed and the patient would be advised to take the OGTT.
Oral Glucose Tolerance Testing (OGTT)- fasting test
The patient needs to appear empty stomach for this test. A blood sample is drawn, and the patient is given an oral glucose solution. A second blood sample is drawn one hour later and the third one, after another hour. The test takes 2 hours to perform, and the patient is advised not to eat or drink anything in the interval. This helps ensure accurate results. If the blood glucose levels fall in the gestational diabetes range, the patient might be prescribed medications or put be put on a diet.
Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes
Right at the beginning of pregnancy, the doctor asks the mother-to-be a few questions regarding medical and family history to rule out the risks of gestational diabetes. Throughout the pregnancy, any warning signs are monitored and evaluated. If nothing appears abnormal, the routine GCT is prescribed at the right time. The test results help diagnose gestational diabetes.
Treatment of Gestational Diabetes
Gestational diabetes can be easily managed by making simple lifestyle changes. . A fibre-rich, low-carb diet consumed as frequent small portions might help alleviate the blood glucose levels. Based on the results of the OGTT, the doctor might also suggest mild exercises. The blood sugar levels will be tested again after a gap to check for any difference. If the levels fall back to normal, you will simply be advised to continue your diet and exercises. The doctor might keep a check on your f the baby's health periodically. If the blood sugar levels don’t drop to normal, you might be prescribed medications or insulin shots to bring it down.
How to Control Sugar Level During Pregnancy
The simple way to control your sugar level is to work on your diet. Tweaks to what you eat and when you eat go a long way in improving your general health during pregnancy.
Gestational diabetes diet plan-
here is a sample of how your diet plan should ideally be like:
Breakfast
· 2 to 3 carbohydrate choices (30 to 45 grammes)
· protein (meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheese, peanut butter)
· vegetable or fat, freely
Lunch
· 3 to 4 carbohydrate choices (45 to 60 grammes)
· protein (meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheese, peanut butter)
· vegetable or fat, freely
Dinner
· 3 to 4 carbohydrate choices (45 to 60 grammes)
· protein (meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheese, peanut butter)
· vegetable or fat, freely
Morning Snack:
· 1 to 2 carbohydrate choices (15 to 30 grammes)
· protein (meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheese, peanut butter)
· vegetable or fat, freely
Afternoon Snack:
· 1 to 2 carbohydrate choices (15 to 30 grammes)
· protein (meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheese, peanut butter)
· vegetable or fat, freely
Evening Snack:
· 1 to 2 carbohydrate choices (15 to 30 grammes)
· protein (meat, poultry, fish, eggs, cheese, peanut butter)
· vegetable or fat, freely
Source: https://www.allinahealth.org/health-conditions-and-treatments/health-library/patient-education/gestational-diabetes/healthy-eating-physical-activity-stress-management/basic-meal-planning/
Your dietician might however prescribe a personalised diet chart based on your test results.
Blood Glucose Levels for Pregnant Women
Ideal blood glucose levels differ for pregnant women who had diabetes before they got pregnant and for women with gestational diabetes. Here is a general guideline on blood sugar levels during pregnancy. Do remember that every pregnancy is different and your doctor is the best person to take a call on your health.
Source: http://www.webmd.com/diabetes/gestational-diabetes-guide/normal-blood-sugar-levels-chart-pregnant-women.
How Can One Prevent Gestational Diabetes?
.Being aware and equipped with all pre-requisite information is the first step towards prevention. Not only will it help you understand all the risk factors involved but alsoprepare you for what lies ahead. Talk to your doctor about your medical history to rule out any risks, and screen for diabetes at early stages, if required. Be stringent about the diet and exercise plan prescribed for you to maintain normal sugar level during pregnancy. Sweet cravings are common in some women but unhealthy snacks and a high-sugar diet will do more harm than good.
What Happens to Mom and Baby After Delivery?
In most cases, nothing! The mother gets back to her usual healthy self, and the blood sugar levels drop back to normal, and the baby is healthy and happy. But in the worst cases where the damage is severe due to very high blood sugar levels, late diagnosis, or if the mother’s body did not respond well to the medication, the effects might be seen on the mother and the baby. Subsequent tests might be scheduled for both to rule out the occurrence of type II diabetes in the mother and hypoglycaemia in the baby.
It is important to strive to maintain a healthy weight and to continue healthy diet and exercise habits after delivery too. This helps reduce the risk of developing diabetes in later stages of life and during the next pregnancy. Do not skip the follow-up sessions for yourself as well as for the baby after delivery. Continue breastfeeding while also ensuring that you consume a nutrient-rich diet. This will help achieve optimum weight and ensure the best health of the mother and the baby. Read more
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Is Peppermint Oil Safe for Babies?
Parents have the challenging task of keeping their children safe and healthy. Therefore, the use of essential oils like peppermint oil to help children may pose a certain degree of concern, with regards to its safety. Parents should exercise extreme caution and care when using peppermint oil for babies as its concentrated form can be life-threatening. Preferably, it should be used only in a much more diluted form than what is recommended for adults.
What is Peppermint Oil?
The oil of peppermint is the result of steam-distilling the flower buds, leaves and stems of the peppermint plant. It is considered an effective cure for digestive issues, respiratory problems, and sinusitis. It also supports the health of the nervous system, muscles and joints. It has a cooling, tingling effect on the skin when applied. People commonly use peppermint oil for flavouring foods and beverages.
Should You Use Peppermint Oil for Babies' Needs?
Even though peppermint oil may offer many health benefits, it could be dangerous for babies. Accidental ingestion of the oil can be toxic for an infant. Direct and undiluted application of the oil can cause inflammation, itchiness or possible skin reactions. Most parents may wonder if peppermint oil is safe for babies to inhale. The answer is that it is not recommended to expose babies to the oil directly. Too much of it can be disastrous, as it may lead to health complications. Therefore, avoid using it for babies under the age of one. In case you still intend on using it, know all the likely risks and use it wisely. It's sensible to consult a doctor before attempting its use.
5 Benefits of Peppermint Oil for Infants
Benefits of peppermint oil, when used in small and diluted quantities, for infants can be:
1. Relief from Colic
Babies are every so often prone to gas and other digestive problems owing to their developing digestive system. Applying diluted peppermint oil on the belly of a colicky baby may prove beneficial in relieving his discomfort partly.
2. Helps Teething Babies
Peppermint oil may help in easing teething pain in babies. Add coconut oil to it in equal parts to dilute it. Rubbing the mixture on the gums of teething babies may bring instant relief. It may also assist in preventing cavities.
3. A Remedy for Cold and Cough
You may use peppermint oil for your baby's colds as it is believed to be an expectorant. Inhaling diffused peppermint oil mixed with eucalyptus oil and clove oil may prove useful in unclogging a baby’s blocked nose and providing comfort to his scratchy throat. It may also diminish the effects of chest congestion.
4. Fights Dandruff
Adding a couple of drops of peppermint oil to your baby’s shampoo can work well for removing dandruff and nourishing his hair. The antiseptic properties of the essential oil may effectively cure any lice issues as well.
5. Soothes Skin Rash
Applying some peppermint oil diluted with lavender oil can effectively treat skin rashes. The cooling quality of the mixture helps in reducing inflammation. A blend of peppermint oil and coconut oil can aid in bringing down a baby’s fever naturally.
Precautions to Take While Using Peppermint Oil for Your Baby
Some precautions to bear in mind while using peppermint oil for babies can include the following:
Remember not to directly apply peppermint oil to a baby’s nasal or chest area as it can trigger respiratory distress and bronchial spasms.
It is not advisable to apply an undiluted form of the oil to the baby’s feet because of its potential toxic nature.
Take care while exposing your baby to the oil as its inhalation in large amounts can result in dizziness, muscle weakness, nausea, disorientation, and double vision.
Always dilute peppermint oil with a carrier oil when using for babies. Be careful that your baby doesn't ingest it as it can prove harmful.
Peppermint oil can be deadly when consumed in excess. Thus, it may be better to avoid giving it to babies unless specifically recommended by a doctor. The likely risks associated with the essential oil may outweigh its benefits when a baby’s well-being is in question.
Also Read: Is It Safe to Use Mineral Oil for Infants? Read more
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Uterine Inversion – All You Need To Know
Uterine inversion is a potentially fatal maternal condition where the uterus either partially or completely falls outside cervix or even vagina. In simple terms it can be called “Uterus turning inside out”.
What is Uterine Inversion?
Uterine inversion is a life-threatening obstetric emergency which is very rare but can lead to serious ill effects like hypovolemic shock, severe haemorrhage and even death in extreme conditions. The fundus of the uterus is found to pass out of cervix and even vagina causing inversion of the uterus.
How Common is Uterine Inversion?
The Incidence of uterine inversion usually varies and can range from 1 case in 2000 to 1 case in every 50,000 births. In a much broader range, it can occur in about 1 in 3,000 births. The mother’s survival rate is only about 85% and can lead to death.
What are the Grades of inversion?
Uterine inversion has 4 degrees or grades based on its severity. This includes:
1st - Incomplete inversion- the top of the uterus (fundus) has collapsed and is still inside the cavity, but if it comes out it does only till cervix and does not exceed cervical external.
2nd - Complete inversion- the uterus protrudes inside-out and comes out through the cervix.
3rd - Prolapsed inversion- the fundus of the uterus comes out of the vagina.
4th - Total inversion- both the uterine fundus and vagina protrude inside-out beyond vaginal introitus (this is mainly seen in cases of cancer rather than childbirth).
What are the Causes of Uterine Inversion?
Major etiological factors leading to uterine inversion include:
Excessive cord traction in the third stage of labour
Improper discharge of placenta after child birth
Forceful expulsion of placenta by doctors using medical aid
Tension on the umbilical cord
Prior deliveries.
Long labour (more than 24 hours).
Use of the muscle relaxants (like magnesium sulphate) during labour
Short umbilical cord
Fetal macrosomia
Excessive fundal pressure due to fundal implantation of placenta
Placenta accrete – Invasion of placenta deeply into the uterine walls
Ligament laxity
Congenital abnormalities of the uterus
Are There Any Symptoms of Uterine Inversion?
Some of the possible symptoms that can be noticed during Uterine inversion are:
Protrusion of uterus from the vagina
Displacement of uterus from its original place
Excess loss of blood i.e severe haemorrhage or a rapid fall in blood pressure
Symptoms of hypovolemic shock (lightheadedness, dizziness, coldness, tiredness, shortness of breath)
Tachycardia – Rapid increase in heart rate.
How is Uterine Inversion Diagnosed?
Quick and reliable diagnosis is important and can prevent maternal death. Signs of uterine inversion are as follows:
Protrusion of vagina
Displaced fundus from its place (abdominal area) during abdominal palpitation
Severe haemorrhage
Rapid fall in blood pressure (hypotension)
Signs of shock (blood loss)
Scans (such as ultrasound or MRI) that may be used in some cases to confirm the diagnosis
Uterine fundus beyond vaginal introitus
3rd degree inversion of uterus
The Echogenicity of the endometrium shows the shape of the letter C and the echogenicity of the uterus shows the shape of the letter H during ultrasound
Factors that can Increase the Risk of Uterine Inversion
Risk factors that can worsen a maternal condition that are noticed in uterine inversion include:
Severe bleeding
Shock
Trauma
Treatment for Uterine Inversion
Uterine inversion management options include:
Reposition of maternal fundus back through cervix
Relaxation of uterus using relaxants that can further help in re-positioning the uterus
After complete placement of uterus, continuous Intravenous infusion of oxytocin is provided to make the uterus firm and keep it in position, which further controls the bleeding.
Until uterus is at its place, the doctor may keep applying pressure by using one hand inside the vagina and other over the abdominal area (superficially) to compress the uterus and stop the bleeding.
The major surgical techniques for uterine inversion management are described below:
Huntington - Clamps are placed on the round ligament, near its insertion in the uterus, and traction is applied while the doctor exerts traction on the contralateral way through the vagina. It is the simplest technique and has a lower risk of complications.
Haultaim – Preferred when the first technique is a failure. Here in this method, an incision is made in the posterior portion of the ring formed by the cervix in order to increase the size of the ring and thus reposition the uterus.
Another surgical technique was given by Spinelli. In this method, the surgeon performs a dissection of the vesicouterine space and makes an incision on the cervix, allowing the uterus to return to its original position.
Hydrostatic pressure technique is an alternative method where balloons are generally placed intravaginally and filled by a saline solution to increase the pressure on the uterine fundus resulting in pushing the uterus to its initial position.
In extreme conditions where there are higher chances of maternal death, the uterus is completely removed by surgery.
Monitoring of vaginal bleeding and for other symptoms will be done continuously.
Blood transfusion is made for proper replacement, also supplemented by antibiotics to prevent further complications like infection.
Until the condition is stabilized the mother is kept under close observation for any other signs of degradation in her condition..
Post-discharge dietary changes and lifestyle modification plays an essential role which could also be called as part of treatment.
Will You Suffer From Uterine Inversion In Your Next Pregnancy?
Yes, there are higher chances of Uterine inversion in next pregnancy of you have already suffered one. As with any pregnancy complication or other medical problem, the complete medical history has to be provided to the doctor for proper care and management. This will help the practitioner in further reducing the complications associated with the condition.
Things to remember
It is always advisable to keep a track of medical history provide the same to the doctor, and talk to them for proper medical advice and to prevent further risk of uterine inversion in the future.
Conclusion
Uterine inversion is a fatal condition which requires diagnosis in advance and also proper management as quickly as it occurs. Irrespective of the approach, vaginal or surgical, prompt treatment is the best way to deal with uterine inversion to prevent maternal death. Read more
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Taking Antidepressants during Pregnancy - Is It Safe?
Pregnancy and medication don’t go hand-in-hand. But if you’re taking medication for depression, stopping its intake can be quite a difficult decision to take. On the other hand, depression might set in during pregnancy as well. In all these scenarios, one may wonder if it is safe to take antidepressants during pregnancy, and what alternatives exist to it.
Can You Take Antidepressants While Pregnant?
Choosing to take an antidepressant while you are pregnant is a call that needs to be taken by weighing the risks and the benefits. In terms of risks, antidepressants pose a very low-level risk of harm to the baby. At the same time, there are very specific medicines that have been deemed safe for consumption during pregnancy. The lowest possible amount of a consistent medication might be necessary at this stage.
How Can Pregnancy Effect Depression?
Pregnancy causes the body of the mother to undergo a lot of hormonal changes, which also results in affecting the emotions. Initially, this was believed to be a positive effect that raises the mood and vitality of the mother. However, this is not always the case. The fluctuating emotions can cause a form of depression to set in, as well as make it difficult to handle existing case of depression. This combined with the challenges of pregnancy can result in a taxing time for everyone involved.
Is Treatment for Depression Essential in Pregnancy?
The answer to this would be yes. Depression manifests itself in various behavioural tendencies. Poor eating habits could result in not having good prenatal care or an imbalanced diet missing the nutrients both the mother and the baby need. Major depression cases have usually resulted in the premature birth of the child, the baby has less than ideal weight, improper or reduced growth in the foetus, and so on. If the depression continues unabated, it could further escalate after delivery. This can then cause reduced production of breastmilk, an absence of a baby-mother bonding, and affect the child intensely.
Which Antidepressants Are Considered Safe During Pregnancy?
Here is a list of antidepressants which are considered safe during pregnancy.
1. Specific SSRI Medications
SSRIs are termed as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. These are usually considered to be safe during pregnancy although they have their own share of complications. These include postpartum haemorrhage where there is heavy bleeding after birth, premature delivery or even reduced weight of the baby. Most SSRIs do not cause any birth defects in the child, except for paroxetine, which has a small risk of heart defect. Other medications that are considered safe are the ones that have citalopram, fluoxetine or sertraline.
2. Specific SNRI Medications
SNRIs are termed as serotonin and norepinephrine reuptake inhibitors. Most of these medicines are safe to be consumed through pregnancy. Towards the later stages of the pregnancy, there are chances of a higher risk of experiencing heavy bleeding after delivery. Medications containing duloxetine, venlafaxine are considered safe for pregnant women.
3. Bupropion Based Medication
Certain women might be aware of this medicine in the form of Wellbutrin, which is also used to stop smoking. When it comes to depression, this isn’t the medicine usually recommended but is opted for when other medication fails to work properly. Certain research has pointed out that bupropion could be linked to foetal heart defects.
4. Tricyclic Medication
These antidepressants usually contain nortriptyline. These, too, are used only when none of the usual medications has had any effect on depression. Such medicines might be safe during pregnancy, however, they do result in heavy bleeding during delivery, if consumed in the 2nd or 3rd trimester of the pregnancy. Clomipramine also falls under this type of medication, although it has been linked with heart-related defects.
Antidepressants to Avoid When Pregnant
Antidepressants and pregnancy do not always go together very well. There are some of these which should definitely be avoided.
Paroxetine, a selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor, is strongly advised against consumption during pregnancy. There have been links that associate this medication with an increased risk for the foetus to have heart-related defects.
Another class of medication is MAOIs or monoamine oxidase inhibitors. These also include phenelzine and tranylcypromine, both of which should be strongly avoided in pregnancy. These medicines are known to restrict the growth of the foetus.
Alternatives to Medications
Medication may not always be recommended to you if your depression is not severe. In many cases of mild depression, if there exists no history of relapsing into depression again, doctors usually suggest experience psychology based therapy techniques. These include cognitive behavioural therapy and interpersonal therapy, along with exercises. These usually are pretty consistent at keeping depression in control and work on a longer term as well.
Do not opt for any random herbal or exotic remedies as a way to treat your depression. These can cause more harm than the aforementioned medications, many of which could be irreversible.
Risk of Taking Antidepressant for Baby
There are certain effects of antidepressants during pregnancy, especially in the last trimester or so. Consumption of antidepressants in that stage can result in the baby experiencing some respiratory distress, irritation, refraining from feeding and certain jitters, for up to 4 weeks after pregnancy. This, however, should not cause you to stop taking medication or reducing the dosage since that can increase depression to set in after delivery.
What Happens When You Stop Taking Antidepressants in Pregnancy?
Medication is absolutely essential to keep the depression under control. If you skip any doses, it can risk the depression setting in heavily. This may result in a bad emotional state, improper care during pregnancy, as well as psychosis after delivery.
Can You Switch Medication?
Medication for depression during pregnancy is usually suggested to be consistent and in the minimally required doses. Switching is mostly avoided since there are risks with the substituted drug failing to treat depression appropriately. In case switching is required, getting a doctor’s recommendation is absolutely necessary.
Pregnancy is where a mother needs to take care of two lives, the baby and herself. Depression can strongly affect the emotional health which can affect the baby’s growth directly or indirectly. Medications, although avoided during pregnancy, might be necessary for certain situations in the long run. It is important to note that any risks that the mother faces, the baby may face too. Even when it comes to avoiding medication altogether, having a strong emotional support and staying confident can fight that depression.
Also Read: Anxiety during Pregnancy Read more
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Dry Fruits Laddoo
Presenting an easy-speedy recipe for making healthy and delicious dry fruits laddoo. The best part of this laddoo? While being a festive dish, these can be had while fasting too. In addition, these wholesome laddoos are best for growing up kids. Serve a laddoo or two with a glass of milk for breakfast to your kid and watch him take on the day with a pumped up spirit.
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
6 People
20-25 Minutes
0 Minutes
Ingredients
1/2 cup coconut, grated
1 cup sesame seeds
1/2 cup almonds
1/2 cup cashew nuts
2 tbsp dried ginger powder
1 tbsp poppy seeds
10-12 cardamom, powdered
6-8 dry dates, finely grated
3 tbsp ghee
Method
Step 1
Heat a pan, and roast coconut and sesame seeds separately, i.e. one after the other.
Step 2
Combine the coconut and sesame seeds and blend in a mixer till smooth.
Step 3
Combine almonds, cashew nuts and dry dates and blend in a mixer to a coarse powder.
Step 4
Combine the coconut-sesame powder and the almond-cashew nut-dry date powder and mix well.
Step 5
Next, add dried ginger powder, poppy seeds, cardamom powder and mix well.
Step 6
Now add ghee and powdered sugar and mix well again.
Step 7
Shape them into small balls and serve.
Nutritional Information
Calories
1765 Kcal
Proteins
39.9 g
Fat
150.9 g
Carbohydrates
89.5 g
Cholesterol
98 mg
Sodium
28 mg
Potassium
1555 mg
Read more
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Q. #asktheexperts How to increase quantity of milk production?
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Q. hi doctor from two days i am eating milk cream with sugar and i want to burn it in my stomach I am 5 month pregnant plzz help ??
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
5 hours ago
A. at present weight no exercise is other than moderate walking. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. I am in my 8th month of pregnancy (last week), and for some reason I am continously facing lot of fatigue. I am feeling deprived of energy and I don't have any energy to do anything. resting isn't Helping in any way and taking small walks isn't too. what can be the possible reason and how to overcome this.
Read moreDr Ghouse
Paediatrician
5 hours ago
A. yes that can be both physical and psychological problems during pregnancy ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Sai Prasanthi R L has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
4 hours ago
Q. hi,
pls advice , after hcg tigger injection can we do intercourse to conceive and till when we can do ...trying to conceive
Sai Prasanthi R L
Mom of a 10 yr 2 m old boy
4 hours ago
A. Hello dear! We understand your eagerness and concern. It is advisable to check with your consulting doctor regarding this matter. Clarify your concerns and follow your doctor’s advice. Maintain a good personal hygiene routine and a healthy lifestyle
Charul Verma has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 yr 7 m old child
1 hour ago
Q. Hello my baby is 20 months old he swallowed a earpod bur he is normal he eat as well as drink please suggest???
Charul Verma
Nutritionist
55 mins ago
A. hi mom
mostly it will be out once he passes stool
but better to show to doctor
it can be checked in x ray if required
Rashmi has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 yr 7 m old child
1 hour ago
Q. Hello my baby is 20 months old by mistake he swallowed a earpod but he is normal is eat drink plz suggest??
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
1 hour ago
A. It’s fine it should come out into the poop of your child within 24 to 48 hours a lot of mishaps happened with kids these days but these things since they are not edible they do not get digested which is why they come out into the motion
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