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Tea Tree Oil During Pregnancy - Benefits, Precautions, and Side Effects
Pregnancy is a time of heightened awareness. It is the time, when a woman ponders over her every single decision, as it can have an impact on her baby some way or the other. During pregnancy, your body will undergo a lot of changes as a result of hormonal changes. These hormonal changes can lead to certain skin problems during pregnancy that might make you feel low. Yes, other than morning sickness, you will have skin problems to deal with too during pregnancy! We know you must be thinking about ‘pregnancy glow’, but sometimes, especially in the first trimester of your pregnancy, you may not have that bright-radiant skin that you had been hoping for. Instead, you may have pimples and acne that might make you feel low. But worry not, there are certain essential oils like tea tree oil that can help you combat skin problems!
The anti-inflammatory, anti-microbial, antibacterial properties of tea tree oil make it an effective remedy for acne and other skin complications that may arise during pregnancy. But is it completely safe to use tea tree oil while pregnant? Find out!
What Is Tea Tree Oil?
Tea tree oil or Melaleuca alternifolia is an essential oil derived from the tea tree. Tea tree oil is known for antimicrobial and antiseptic properties which makes it a common choice for treating skin ailments like acne, warts, scabies, insect bites, fungal or bacterial infections. It also offers various benefits for hair and nails.
Is It Safe to Use Tea Tree Oil While Pregnant?
Yes, it is safe to use tea tree oil during pregnancy but one must exercise utmost caution. If you want to use it, then you must read the instructions carefully on the bottle or use it as suggested by your doctor. Essential oils like tea tree oil are extremely concentrated, meaning that they are more potent when compared to products available in other forms from the same plant. Therefore, you need to know the correct usage of tea tree oil before you apply it on your skin.
Doctors usually recommend that tea tree oil should be used only in diluted form. You can apply it topically after consulting with your doctor and as suggested by her. Your doctor may also suggest some precautions, which you should follow carefully while using it. Ingestion of tea tree oil when pregnant can prove hazardous for the baby. So, never ingest it and also refrain from using it around the mouth.
Experts suggest that tea tree oil should be used with caution during pregnancy, particularly in the first trimester, as if not used properly, it can trigger uterine contractions and negatively affect the development of the growing foetus. The risk, however, somewhat reduces during the second and third trimester as the baby develops.
Benefits of Using Tea Tree Oil During Pregnancy
Some benefits of using tea tree oil during pregnancy are mentioned below.
Using tea tree oil during pregnancy can help in balancing the production of oil and in unclogging the skin’s sebaceous glands, which can help cure acne and lower the chances of its occurrence.
Tea tree oil contains phytocides which may prove beneficial in the treatment of respiratory and nasal infections during pregnancy or otherwise. For the treatment of these infections, one can mix the Himalayan salt, 6-8 drops of tea tree oil and 10 drops of rosemary oil in a neti pot and then use it. However, the FDA does not recommend the use of neti pot as it can be used improperly by people. Hence, it must be avoided. You can consult with your doctor if you have respiratory infections or nasal infections.
Tea tree oil may prove effective in fighting antibiotic-resistant bacteria including E. coli, thus protecting pregnant women from falling prey to bladder infections and cold sores. Tea tree oil is not supposed to be ingested at all, but you can use it by adding it to your bathwater. You can add around 3 drops of tea tree oil in 125 ml of bathwater, which you can use to cleanse around the urethra.
The antiseptic properties of tea tree oil can help you fight fungal infections that cause brittle or discoloured nails during pregnancy.
The topical use of tea tree oil during pregnancy can also help avert the occurrence of stretch marks.
The antiseptic and anti-inflammatory properties of tea tree oil can provide relief from the symptoms of haemorrhoids, like swelling, pain and discomfort, during pregnancy.
Ways in Which You Can Use Tea Tree Oil During Pregnancy
Mentioned below are some of the ways to use tea tree oil during pregnancy.
If you have nail fungus during pregnancy, you can apply a few drops of diluted tea tree oil on to the affected area twice daily.
You can prepare a toner by adding 1.5 ounces of apple cider vinegar, 1.5 ounces of clear water to 6 drops of tea tree oil to use it on your skin. It will give you glowing skin during pregnancy.
You can increase the effectiveness of your face wash by adding a few drops of tea tree oil to it which may help you keep pimples and acne at bay during pregnancy.
You can blend in tea tree oil in your lotion before using it to get smooth and soft skin during pregnancy.
If you have dandruff problem during pregnancy, consider using tea tree oil shampoo. Add a small measure of tea tree oil to your shampoo for best results.
You can also take aromatic baths by adding 4-5 drops of tea tree oil to your daily bathwater as it promotes healthy skin.
Harmful Effects of Using Tea Tree Oil During Pregnancy
Certain dangers of using tea tree oil during pregnancy are mentioned below.
The use of tea tree oil during pregnancy can sometimes prompt an allergy, leading to inflammation and skin irritation.
Ingestion of tea tree oil during pregnancy can produce substantial toxicity which may lead to abdominal pain, confusion, diarrhoea, and even coma. Hence, it should never be ingested.
Improper use of tea tree oil during pregnancy can be detrimental for the health of the foetus.
Sometimes the topical use of tea tree oil can result in skin dryness, rashes, and blisters.
The use of tea tree oil by a pregnant woman with a history of eczema can cause a bad reaction.
Tea tree oil can also set off a hormonal imbalance in some women.
Who Should Avoid Using Tea Tree Oil?
Pregnant women and people with the following conditions should avoid using tea tree oil at all costs:
Chronic respiratory issues like asthma
Tuberculosis
Precautions to Take While Using Tea Tree Oil During Pregnancy
Here are some precautions you can take while using tea tree oil:
To avoid the incidence of an allergic reaction always do a skin patch test first. Apply a drop of tea tree oil on to a small area of your skin and observe for any possible adverse response.
Refrain from using tea tree oil in concentrated form. The safe way to use tea tree oil is by diluting it.
Check the expiry date when buying a bottle of tea tree oil. Using expired tea tree oil can be harmful as after expiration the oil starts to hoard cancer-causing substances.
Be careful while using tea tree oil through a diffuser in a closed room as it has a pronounced smell which can trigger nausea during pregnancy.
Tea tree oil can be very beneficial for the skin and to treat the various skin problems like acne and pimples. However, one should use it with the utmost caution, especially during pregnancy. Diluting tea tree oil for use during pregnancy is desirable to reduce its potential risks. In case of uncertainty about the correct concentration, refer to a doctor before using tea tree oil who may prescribe a suitable dosage after examining your condition.
Also Read: Castor Oil in Pregnancy for Labour Induction Read more
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Apnea Monitor - Benefits, Risks and Safety Tips
The apnea monitor for infants is a non-invasive, portable device that can detect and alert patients to apnea. The monitoring system is connected to a wearable computer. It records the time since the patient last breathed and can send alerts to a medical professional in the event of apnea. It also provides additional information on the device and its use, such as the number of wake-ups during sleep. To know its benefits, risks, and safety tips, keep reading the article.
What Is an Apnea Monitor?
An apnea monitor for preemies is a wearable device that tracks your baby's heartbeat and oxygen levels. There are several apnea monitors, including ones for babies and adults. Most of these devices are connected to your baby's feet and can be used by adults and children. These wearable trackers are designed to monitor your baby's health and help prevent apnea in both types of patients.
Why There Is a Need of Sids Monitor for Your Baby?
Although expensive, physicians and scientists feel these gadgets are necessary for SIDS prevention. In addition, researchers have noticed that high-risk neonates' respiration is not always impeded. The monitoring equipment cannot distinguish high-risk kids from low-risk kids, and a different monitoring system may be wiser. Reasons to get a SIDS sleep apnea monitor for home usage for your infant include the following.
1. Your Infant Kid Was Born Prematurely
An infant born before 37 weeks has a greater risk of experiencing apnea. Apnea is often characterized as a period of shallow or no breathing. When your infant's breathing is interrupted, their heart rate may slow.
2. Your Child Had a Short Inexplicable Experience (BRUE)
A BRUE happens when your baby's respiration suddenly ceases, and they remain unresponsive.
3. Your Newborn's Sibling Passed Away Due to Sudden Infant Death Syndrome (SIDS)
SIDS is described as the untimely death of a sleeping newborn under one year; however, nobody is sure about the reason for such deaths.
Benefits of Apnea Monitor
If your kid has sleep apnea, you may want to consider purchasing a baby apnea monitor. Some of the benefits of cardiac apnea monitor are:
The Device Will Notify You: It is critical to monitor your baby's heart and breathing rates if they have apnea. The gadget will sound an alert if your baby's heart rate falls below a certain level or if your youngster has a lengthy period of respiratory stoppage. This monitor is essential since it enables you to check your baby's breathing and heart rate continuously. The alert can notify you when your newborn is experiencing apnea, which may help you avoid a problem.
Help You Identify Apneic Children: The monitoring equipment may assist you in determining whether or not your child is apneic. The monitor will warn you when your baby stops breathing, which is the most visible indicator of apnea. This monitor is also helpful for detecting variations in heart rate. It may assist you in preventing sleep apnea in your kid by providing critical information. Apnea is quite frequent in toddlers, and any newborn might develop apnea.
Detects Variations in Heart Rate and Breathing: "What does an apnea monitor detect?" Yet another benefit of employing an apnea monitor is that it can detect changes in heart rate and breathing patterns. Additionally, it aids in determining the kind of apnea your infant has. Apnea is classified into two primary types: central obstructive and mixed. Selecting the appropriate monitor for your kid will help avoid overdiagnosis and even save their life.
Assist Avoid Overdiagnosis: Apart from ensuring safety, a baby monitor may also prevent overdiagnosis. Overdiagnosis arises in the case of apnea when an exact discovery of a problem is not beneficial to the patient. A single false alert may set off a chain of events. For example, a parent may get panicked when the low pulse oximetry alert on a consumer apnea monitor sounds. Inadequate interpretation of this data may jeopardize the kid and result in excessive expenses.
Risk of Apnea Monitor
A possible consequence is skin pain caused by the electrodes linked to your baby's skin, and this is not a significant worry in light of the project's setting. Unless your apnea monitor is fitted with a backup battery, it is conceivable that it will not operate if you lose power or encounter other electrical difficulties.
Consult your home health care provider to see if your monitor has a battery backup system. If this is the case, you must understand how to maintain a constant charge on the battery.
How to Use an Apnea Monitor?
When a home health care company comes to your home to teach you how to operate a monitor, the authorities deem it an emergency. They will help you as long as you use the computer monitor. If you encounter difficulties with the monitor, you should contact the manufacturer.
Follow these procedures to make use of the SIDS prevention monitor:
To use the electrode patches (also known as stick-on patches) or the belt, you must place them on your baby's chest or stomach.
The connectors connect the cords from the electrodes to the computer display.
Turn on the computer monitor and keyboard.
Safety Tips While Using Apnea Monitor for Baby
Despite the benefits of the device, you need to exercise precaution when using it. So, keep the below things in mind:
Applying powders or lotions to your baby's skin before attaching the monitor is not recommended. These will interfere with the sensors' ability to perform their functions appropriately.
If any sticky pads are on display, they should be removed and replaced. In general, you should not change these sticky pads more often than recommended by the service provider.
Your contact may cause the skin of your baby to become irritated.
Baby's Skincare While Using SIDS Monitor
When using a SIDS monitor, you must take further care to preserve your baby's sensitive skin. When using a SIDS monitor, there are many different types of skincare.
Apply a mild moisturizer to your baby's skin before putting them to sleep.
The second kind is to abstain from using lotions or creams before bed.
To prevent suffocation, ensure that your newborn sleeps on its back on a firm mattress.
Keep pillows, blankets, and soft animals out of the crib.
Avoid applying lotions or powders to your baby's skin before connecting the monitor. These will block the sensors from functioning properly.
Remove any adhesive pads from the display and replace them as directed by the manufacturer. You should not change sticky pads more often than recommended by the service provider since you risk inflaming your baby's skin.
How Long Will Baby Stay On SIDS Monitor?
The frequency with which actual warnings are heard determines how long your kid will be on the monitor at any one moment. Real-time notifications notify you if your baby's heart rate is not steady or if they are having difficulties breathing for any reason.
It is conceivable that the alarm may activate if your baby moves throughout the night. However, it is conceivable that the baby's heart rate and breathing are within normal ranges. Because your kid is moving about, you shouldn't be anxious about alarms going off in your house.
Babies are often required to wear a home apnea monitor for 2 to 3 months before being released from the hospital. You should discuss how long your baby will need to be observed with your infant's healthcare provider.
What You Should Do If SIDS Monitor Alarm Sounds?
Taking prompt action when the alarm sounds are crucial. However, make sure to keep the below process in mind when taking any action:
Take a glance at your baby every time the monitor alarm goes off. A slack belt or sticky pad might cause a false alarm in some instances.
A low battery might potentially cause a false alarm to be sounded. Monitor your child to ensure they are securely attached and fully charged battery.
If your baby's breathing has stopped, remain calm. Keep in mind that your baby's doctor has supplied you with detailed instructions on caring for your child.
The provider may urge you to gently massage your baby's back, arms, and legs to persuade them to breathe.
Do not shake your youngster at all. There is a chance that this might cause permanent brain damage.
To restart the monitor, hit the reset button as soon as your baby starts to breathe.
Suppose your infant does not begin to breathe after you have followed all of the instructions, do CPR on them. Immediately dial 911.
When to Call a Doctor
In emergencies, it is best to call for professional help. So, if you observe any of the following situations, call for your doctor:
If a patient suspects they have sleep apnea, they should consult a doctor right once.
Even if it isn't essential, wearing a tracker before the appointment may help you provide the doctor with valuable information.
The same will detect how often apnea happens and its impact on the quality of rest.
You may get information about your breathing patterns as you sleep with the help of an apnea monitor. Monitors keep track of things like breathing rates, blood oxygen levels, and heart rates, among other things. This includes checking their body temperature and whether or not they've fallen backwards onto their tummies. In terms of pricing, these monitors come in several configurations and sizes. It's vital to choose a device suitable for the user's needs in every way, including how comfortable it is. Anyone who has any reason to believe they may be affected by sleep apnea should consult a doctor right away.
Also Read:
How to Choose a Baby Monitor
Apnea of Prematurity in Babies
Checking Your Newborn Breathing Read more
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Smart Tips For Smart Snacking In Between Meals
The old school of thought about snacking in between meals leading to weight gain is a thing of the past. Smart snacking is the latest trend as it provides multitude of health benefits. But what is the right way to do it to ensure you reap the maximum benefits?
Healthy snacks sneaked in between meals aid in providing essential nutrients to the body. This keeps you in high spirits and ready to face any kind of challenges. Healthy or smart snacking is beneficial for people of all ages. Right from school-going children to busy executives, or pregnant women and homemakers, to ailing persons. This is due to the fact that snacking in between meals helps one achieve a sense of fullness and also prevents one from over eating.
Choosing The Right Snack
Now that it is clear smart snacking helps you stay energised throughout the day, how to choose the right type of snack to eat in between meals? What constitutes a smart snack? Well, a smart snack is one which contains either fibre or protein or both with healthy carbs. Eating such smart snacks stops you from over-eating at meal times.
Does Smart Snacking Aid in Weight Loss?
Yes, according to recent researchers, smart snacking is known to aid in weight loss. However, eating the wrong kind of foods such as cookies, frozen sweets, cakes, muffins and processed grains add extra pounds and calories resulting in weight gain! Adopt sensible eating habits to up your metabolic rate and calorie burning capacity.
Healthy Snacks That Help Burn Fat
Skimmed milk
Asparagus
Green tea
Tofu
Different types of fruits such as berries, apples, avocado, etc.
Different types of vegetables which can be eaten raw such as carrots, cucumber, tomatoes, etc.
Peanuts
Whole grains
Lean protein
Legumes
Dry fruits such as walnuts and almonds
Yoghurt
Nutri bars
Relation Between Smart Snacking and Overall Health
Studies conducted over the years have revealed that people eating sensible, small and frequent meals 6 times a day tend to have a lower level of total cholesterol and LDL (bad cholesterol). This is as compared to those eating meals three times a day. Even diabetics consuming frequent, short meals are seen to have beneficial effect in their insulin production.
With the modern, hectic lifestyle, it becomes very difficult to pay attention to one’s health. By learning to snack smartly in between meals, you can achieve good health and also control your weight. Say yes to the new health trend of smart snacking! Read more
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Dr Disha Patel has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
16 hours ago
Q. can I take medicine pcm n citrazene in pregnancy fir sore throats n fever
Dr Disha Patel
Ayurvedic Physician
11 hours ago
A. dear mom.
better to take tab pcm for time being n do take steam inhakation couple of tines a day, follpw good home renedies for cold, taje more rest .
Swati Kar Samanta has added a new answer
Mom of a 9 m old child
9 hours ago
Q. hi everyone good morning,
sorghum can I give to my 10 month baby is it safe or not please revert I waiting for your reply
Swati Kar Samanta
Mom of a 2 m old girl
7 hours ago
A. Yes but first give in very small quantity to judge the reaction of your baby.
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
7 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts is it okay that the baby is kicking less than usual?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
7 hours ago
A. Yes it is the what part is that your child is kicking if you feel that there is a movement of your child whether it is a cake or slight movement also you know that your child is doing fine so there is no problem in that if the movement is less it’s completely alright
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
6 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts what to do if the baby’s nose is blovked
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
6 hours ago
A. Nasal blockage is very common, specially in small children because of the narrow nasal cavity. Any kind of saline drops like nasal clear will be helpful in dissolving the stuffy secretions, which can be taken out by vnasal aspirator gently also steam inhalation will be helpful also, try to avoid keeping the child directly under the fan.
Ankita Mehta has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
4 hours ago
Q. 22 week pregnant,baby konse month me or din me kitni baar move kartaa he ,pls bataye abhi sirf 2, 3 baar hi hota he
Ankita Mehta
Mom of a 8 yr 7 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. hi
yes it's enough
and the frequency and timing may vary as we all are different
but yes, the frequency of feeling baby movements will increase now
please go for regular check-up to your gynecologist
and follow his or her suggestions
Rashmi has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
3 hours ago
Q. hi
need help and advice
my RT 18x16mm and LT 10x16mm ET 6.59
and did ovulation rest also showing fertility test C as if now , pls advice if we intercourse tomorrow then when will be my ovulation start.
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
3 hours ago
A. You can check with an ovulation kit if it is positive then you can certainly go ahead with the conception because ovulation kit is going to give you 100% clarity whether you are ovulating or not with that you can try practising if you can conceive the same time
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