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10 Signs and Symptoms of Water Breaking during Pregnancy
You are pregnant and nearing your labour, and apart from many other concerns, the thought that your water may break anytime soon might be freaking you out. You must have heard about it from many moms but you don't really know how it will happen and what you should be doing. Therefore, it’s better to gear yourself up in such a situation. If you are looking for the information that may help you know about water breaking during pregnancy, then browse through the following article.
Water Breaking Signs That You Should Know
You may have heard about 'water breaking' during pregnancy, but in reality, only 15 percent women may actually experience their water breaking before they go into labour and out of those women, only 1 in 10 women may feel a liquid gushing out. But you may not know which category you may fall in. So, here are some signs of water breaking that you should know about:
1. The Bloody Show
The name may scare you, but as your delivery nears, you may lose your mucus plug that seals your cervix by making you ready for the upcoming labour. Sometimes losing a mucus plug and the breaking of water may happen side by side, while sometimes, you may lose mucus plug, but your water may not break immediately or it may not happen at all. Whatever be the case, once you lose your mucus plug, you should get the hint that your water can break anytime.
2. Infections
Sometimes infections in your vagina, cervix, kidney or bladder may make your water break. However, this is harmful to you and your baby. In case you feel any signs of fever, flu-like symptoms, back pain or other such symptoms, seek your doctor’s help because you may have an infection down there and it may cause water breaking too.
3. Frequent Toilet Visits
As you near your labour, your body releases prostaglandins, which help in labour. But this hormone-like substance may excessively stimulate your bowels, making your bathroom visits frequent. This is an indication that you are in early labour and that your water may break anytime, so be prepared.
4. Hind-water Breaking
It may sound weird, but before your actual water or fore water breaks, you may leak some hind water, which leaks from a hole in the sac behind your baby’s head. Hind water breakage may be felt as a dribble, and this may stop on its own when the membranes reseal it. Therefore, if you experience a little water show before you actually experience a waterfall, understand that this is a sign of water breaking.
5. You May Experience Cramping
Your tummy may feel all tight and churned up, the same way when your periods are near. Though these may not be the actual contractions, however, this cramping may be an indication that your water may break anytime soon. So, grab a plastic sheet or a towel and prepare yourself.
6. You May Hear a Popping Sound
When the sac of fluid around your baby ruptures, you will hear a popping sound. It may feel more like the crackling of bones or popping of a balloon wrapped up in a towel, but you will hear that popping sound. After that, there may be a sudden gush of warm water between your legs.
7. You May Think You May Have Leaked Urine
Towards the end of the pregnancy, there is too much pressure building on your bladder that you may find yourself leaking urine occasionally. This may happen while coughing, laughing, or due to other such activities that may put pressure on your bladder. However, the smell of urine and amniotic water are different. Amniotic water is pale or light yellowish in colour with no odour contrary to urine, which has a distinctive smell. If you are leaking odourless liquid, it is your amniotic water.
8. The Litmus Test
The litmus paper test is also helpful in establishing whether what you are leaking is amniotic fluid or something else. In case, the litmus changes colour, it is a clear indication that you are leaking amniotic fluid and you should get in touch with your doctor immediately.
9. Trickling Sensation
You may sometimes feel a trickling sensation when liquid leaks out from your vagina. You may mistake it for urine and think that amniotic fluid usually comes gushing. But that is not true, amniotic fluid may sometimes come slowly, and in case you are confused about the liquid that you may be leaking, you should seek your doctor’s advice on the same.
10. Excessive Vaginal Discharge
Vaginal discharge increases during pregnancy, which is very normal. However, if you have excessive vaginal discharge that is stringy and clear, this may be your cervical mucus. In case you find too much vaginal discharge, this may be one of the signs that your water has broken.
The above-mentioned are some of the signs and symptoms that may help you know when your water may break. However, our body signals us enough when it is ready to go into labour. You may rely on your gut and recognise the symptoms that your body may exhibit to you. If you think that what you may be leaking is amniotic fluid, it is advised that you get immediate medical assistance.
Also Read: How to Increase and Decrease Amniotic Fluid during Pregnancy Naturally Read more
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Castor Oil during Pregnancy for Labour Induction
In some cases, labour induction may become necessary, notably, if the pregnant woman has exceeded her full pregnancy term of 40 weeks and the contractions haven’t begun. One of the popular tricks often propagated for inducing labour is the use of castor oil.
But there is no complete and decisive research available which shows that the use of castor oil during pregnancy for labour induction is entirely safe. Most of what we know about the role of castor oil in labour induction is here say and subjective.
However, the known common side effect of castor oil which is nausea is not something a pregnant woman would desire during the time of her delivery. Besides, it is always advisable to consult a doctor before experimenting with any such method of labour induction to avoid possible pregnancy risks. The following article may help you make an informed decision regarding taking castor oil during pregnancy.
What is Castor Oil?
Castor oil is a bright, thick vegetable oil extracted from the seeds of castor beans or Ricinus communis. It primarily includes a fatty acid called Ricinoleic acid which is believed to be chiefly responsible for its medicinal properties. Despite the fact that conclusive scientific evidence in this regard is scanty, still for many years now, castor oil has been used for treating numerous disorders like constipation, certain skin issues, easing pain and soreness.
Nonetheless, castor oil has some non-medicinal uses like it is used as a preservative and flavouring agent. It is a common ingredient in skin care items and cosmetics like soaps, shampoos, and lipsticks. It is also used in the manufacturing of dyes, paints, plastics, and fibres.
Castor oil is commonly found in India. The consistency of castor oil is similar to that of the cooking oil and is nearly tasteless. But it is known to have some nasty side-effects like diarrhoea, nausea and even acute dehydration.
Is it Safe to Use Castor Oil during Pregnancy?
Medical research conducted on the subject of castor oil uses for pregnancy shows wide-ranging conclusions. The various studies which have been conducted to analyse the use of castor oil for labour induction do not reveal any noteworthy difference in the kind of birth, vaginal or caesarean or the duration of labour. Neither has any scientific studies found any conclusive evidence indicating enhanced complications during delivery. The primary concern was individuals displaying varying tolerance levels to the discomfort caused by the use of castor oil at the time of birth. In some cases, women experienced nausea while some experienced diarrhoea that lead to dehydration.
Thus, some may endorse castor oil benefits for pregnancy especially in cases where a pregnant woman has crossed the 40 weeks mark while others look at it with concern and forcefully caution against its use.
Besides, doctors have started using other reliable and effective methods of labour-induction which guarantee success. Moreover, if you have a difficult pregnancy, you may want to refrain from using castor oil and seek medical advice instead.
Castor Oil For Inducing Labour
The use of castor oil for inducing labour is based on the notion that castor oil has laxative properties and when consumed it stimulates the bowels and causes the uterus to contract. Furthermore, the ricinoleic acid which is the main constituent of castor oil attacks the prostaglandin receptors in the womb and intestines, causing them to contract. It is also believed that castor oil affects the fluid and electrolytes absorption in the gut leading to diarrhoea which in turn may induce contractions.
How much Castor Oil is Required for Labour Induction?
Some people suggest ingesting nearly half a cup of castor oil while many recommend taking not more than 1 or 2 tablespoons at a given time. It is always wise to start with less and gradually increases the dose if required. This is because overdose may lead to acute diarrhoea and likely dehydration.
How to Consume Castor Oil for Labour Induction?
Castor oil can be consumed in many ways. It depends on the individual’s preference. Some of the ways are mentioned below:
It can be taken mixed with some orange juice or any other juice of your choice to conceal its somewhat unpleasant taste.
You can drink it over in one go and follow it up with a flavoured drink of your liking to neutralise the taste.
Keep in mind to drink plenty of water after consuming castor oil as it is a laxative and may cause dehydration.
How fast does Castor Oil Work to Induce Labour?
Definite results on the use of castor oil for inducing labour are quite diverse. In some cases, expectant mothers reported experiencing its effects and getting into labour within a couple of hours of taking castor oil while in some cases no effects were reported. In such cases, induction may happen over a period of few days, if at all it does.
However, the side effects may start to manifest within a few hours of consuming castor oil and can last up to 1-6 hours. But more detailed research is required to ascertain its effects and results.
Precautions to take before taking Castor Oil to Induce Labour
Certain precautions that may be kept in mind before consuming castor oil to induce labour are:
Keep yourself suitably hydrated by drinking lots of water.
It is better to be near a toilet in case of loose motions.
Follow the principle “less is safe”. It is desirable to take 1 or 2 tablespoons of castor oil in 24 hours.
Avoid inducing too early. It is wise to wait until after 40 weeks because if your body is not prepared for labour, castor oil may not have the desired effect.
It is not advisable to use castor oil as a means to accelerate the labour as this can heighten the pain and discomfort.
You may also like to consider other natural methods with less unpleasant side-effects for inducing labour.
Prepare your hospital bag and keep it handy.
Seek medical consultation in case of any doubt.
Side-effects of Consuming Castor Oil for Inducing Labour
Doctors have mixed opinion on the possible side-effects of consuming castor oil for inducing labour. Some of the likely side-effects are listed below:
Some experts are of the view that, along with the mother, castor oil may cast its laxative effect on the unborn baby as well. And this can cause the baby to pass its first stool (meconium) during labour leading to possible complications. But there is no documented evidence to support this view.
Use of castor oil for inducing labour can result in diarrhoea and likely dehydration.
Ingesting castor oil may cause nausea. It may be with or without vomiting.
Some women can experience severe cramping.
There have been cases where women have experienced no side-effects.
Therefore, it is suggested that you should consult your doctor before consuming castor oil.
Why is it suggested that Castor Oil be avoided during Pregnancy?
Some medical practitioners strongly recommend avoiding the use of castor oil during pregnancy. This may be because of some of the following reasons:
Taking castor oil during pregnancy may lead to abortion.
Castor oil can result in painful contractions in some cases causing increased foetal distress.
It may increase the risk of meconium (baby’s first stool) being passed in the womb.
Owing to the laxative properties of castor oil, it can cause acute diarrhoea which may lead to unnecessary pregnancy complications.
In case you have a tough pregnancy, it is better to avoid the use of castor oil to prevent additional discomfort and problems.
Can Castor Oil be used as a Laxative during Pregnancy?
Experts are divided on this issue, and more extensive research needs to be done. Some experts believe that castor oil can be used as a laxative during pregnancy while some are of the view that the laxative properties of castor oil not only affects the mother but equally effects the baby also. Therefore, using castor oil when pregnant may heighten the probability of meconium or baby’s earliest faeces being passed in the womb. If the meconium is inhaled entirely or even partially by the baby, it can block the airways of the baby and cause serious complications.
Alternatives for Castor Oil for Labour Induction
Depending on how your pregnancy is progressing, castor oil during early pregnancy can be an option. Nevertheless, some of the following alternatives to castor oil can also be considered:
Use of Pitocin through an IV.
Rupturing the water bag artificially.
Stimulation of the nipples manually or with the help of breast pumps.
Prostaglandins.
Use of Foley balloon catheter mechanically.
You can use any one or a combination of the above options after discussing your condition with your doctor.
Preferably, if there are no medical compulsions, the sensible thing to do is to wait for labour to ensue naturally. But if you still wish to use castor oil for inducing labour, it is always wise to consult your doctor first. It is best not to worry unnecessarily and focus more on preparing yourself for the arrival of your bundle of joy.
Also Read:
List of Essential Oils in Pregnancy
Consuming Fish Oil while Pregnant Read more
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Precipitate Labour - Causes, Symptoms and Management
Labour and birth are very difficult and painful times for women... a time that is looked at with the most dread by mothers to be. When labour starts, there is usually a waiting gap between each stage of labour, but when it comes to women going through precipitate labour, everything happens very quickly. Though in some cases it comes as a blessed relief, in others it can be a bit more complicated than that.
What is Precipitate Labour
Precipitate labour, also called fast or rapid labour, is the term given to the case when a woman goes into labour and has her baby within three hours. Only around two in a hundred women will end up having precipitate labour.
There are some women who do not even know they are in labour as there is no pain and remain oblivious until they find themselves in the second stage of labour, which is when your baby’s head will begin to descend, and you will feel the urge to start pushing. The contractions of the uterus in these cases happen so painlessly that it is not detected by the mother at all.
Contractions are the first stage of labour and usually build up in intensity as labour progresses. So, women who are going through precipitate labour can sometimes experience very intense cramps right from the start.
Causes of Fast Labour
Certain factors can work together to make it possible for you to go into precipitous labour. Individually, these factors will not necessarily mean that it will occur, but they put you at a higher risk for it.
Those who have very strong uteri and that contract with all its might when in labour
A very smooth birth canal
History of precipitate labour
A baby who is smaller than the average size
When prostaglandin is used to induce labour
If you have conceived using fertility treatments
Signs of Rapid Labour
There are some signs of precipitate labour complications that are expecting mothers should look out for so they can be aware if they are going into precipitate labour. Here are some:
Contractions that are very close together and that do not leave you with much recovery time between them
An intense pain throughout, that feels like it is one long contraction.
An urge to push that emerges very suddenly; it is similar to the feeling during a bowel movement
Risks and Complications of Fast Labour
Any birthing plan that you made can be thrown out the window since you will most likely not be able to recover enough to implement them. It is especially risky because there is not enough time to get to the hospital and it is likely that the baby may be born in an unsterile environment. The risks to mother and child are not the same; here are some of the risks and complications:
1. For the Mother
Damage to the vagina and cervix in the form of tearing and lacerations
Haemorrhage in the uterus or vagina
A state of shock after the sudden and quick birth leading to increased delivery time
Having your baby in an unwanted and unhygienic environment
Retained placenta, which is when some or the entire placenta is still inside the mother and does not get expelled.
2. For the Baby
There is a risk of infection to your little one if he or she is born in an unsanitary place.
The baby could accidentally inhale the amniotic fluid.
How to Cope With Precipitate Labour
Nobody can really do anything to control the speed at which your baby is born if you have precipitate labour, but there are ways to manage it. Precipitate labour management include:
Either calls your doctor, midwife or the emergency number but you need to get a professional’s help as soon as possible. If you have a doula, she will need to be contacted as well.
Lie down either on your back or side.
Remain in a clean space
Take deep breaths and think about calming things
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions related to precipitate labour:
1. Does Rapid Labour Have Any Emotional Effect on the Mother?
Precipitate labour can cause emotional changes to the mother because of everything that the mother goes through during labour and can be hard to manage as the mother often feels like things are out of control due to everything happening so fast and with no time to even recover. This time can be very emotional and stressful.
2. If You Had Precipitate Labour Last Time,What are the Odds of Having It Again?
If you have had precipitate labour before, then the chances of it happening are higher, but that does not mean it will happen. Perhaps the pregnancy takes a different turn altogether from last time.
3. Can Labour Induction Prevent Another Precipitous Labour?
No, it is more likely that labour induction causes the precipitous labour to occur rather than prevent it as is true when using something like prostaglandin. Your doctor is very unlikely to suggest that you induce labour as it can also increase the risk of other inventions, like assisted birth.
4. How Should I Plan for Another Fast Labour?
If you have been known to have previously had precipitate labour, then your doctor is more likely to suggest that you give birth in a labour ward. This will prevent your baby from being born in an unwanted place like at home or in the car and will reduce the likelihood of any infections being contracted due to unsanitary situations. If you still feel unsure as to whether or not you will be able to get to the hospital on time, you can always have a midwife or ambulance sent over to the house. If you feel like you may be out a lot, it is best that you pack some things that you may need and keep it with you, so you have them in case you go into labour outside. Pack absorbent mats so that you have somewhere clean to give birth on, clean towel and blanket for baby, clean clothes for yourself, plastic bag for the placenta and maternity pads.
Not all women end up with the average labour that takes some time to build up and so it can be quite unpredictable. Being prepared for any given situation is the best and walk into it with your eyes wide open to the different possibilities.
Also Read:
Tips for Easy Labor and Delivery
When and How to Push during Labour & Delivery?
Best Positions To Try during Labour and Delivery Read more
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Teach Your Kids The Power of Non Violence
Mahatma Gandhi's best known teaching is that of non-violence or “ahinsa”. In fact, his birthday or Gandhi Jayanti on October 2 is internationally celebrated as the International Day of Non Violence. As a mom, it is important to teach your kids peace and nonviolence so that they grow up as amiable, happy adults!
The reasons to teach kids about non violence are plenty – especially in this age of turmoil, crime and hatred! Children are highly responsive to external stimuli and everything from an encounter with a neighborhood bully to a violent video game can trigger confusing emotions in them. It is up to you to impart non violence education for kids as a responsible mom.
4 Innovative Ideas for Raising a Non Violent Child
1. You Grow Up When You Forgive
Kids always want to grow up fast and do what Mummy and Daddy do – watch TV, stay up late, et al. Tell them that forgiveness is the mature thing to do when someone says sorry. The school kid who stole his tiffin-box says “I am sorry”? Teach your child to say “It's okay” instead of picking up a fight. Forgiving and moving on is the adult thing to do1!
2. Violence is Noisy and Ugly
To raise non-violent children, it is crucial to maintain a peaceful environment at home. Try to avoid these fighting or having loud arguments in front of the children. When kids are exposed to violent television programming or news stories, use them as an opportunity to showcase just how ugly violence is. The point is not to keep your kids oblivious to the reality of life but teach them that they have the power to live peacefully. Avoid violence-inducing toys such as guns at all costs!
3. Peace Can Win You Brownie Points
No, we don't suggest material rewards! What you must do is expose your kids to situations and conversations where they need to decide between two courses of action – violence vs. non-violence. It could be dealing with the classmate who falsely complained to the class teacher, or the street dog who made a mess in the courtyard. Compliment them when they choose interesting, peaceful solutions such as discussion, conversation and innovation.
4. Smart Kids Use Only Non-Violent Solutions for Problems
Children love feeling responsible and grown-up. Reinforce the point that they must find non-violent resolutions to everyday situations. Slapping, kicking and shouting is what everyone can do! If they are smart, they must find clever workarounds to problems. And this applies to requesting Mamma to stay up late as well. Throwing a violent tantrum is not what smart kids should do!
Finally, remember that you have to lead by example. You are your child's role model; you are the super mom and you can't do anything wrong! Try to maintain peace at home – from your family interactions to workplace stress to disciplining kids – and your little ones will learn from you every day! Read more
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Baking Is So Much Fun With Kids
We spend the first five days of the week working – taking care of the house and the family, and then come the two most beloved days of the week – Saturday and Sunday! Days to relax, sleep and enjoy.
My plan was all set in the mind, but then I realised I had to keep my daughter busy throughout the day too and believe me, it’s not easy; one has come up with lot many ideas. This weekend I thought to try something new. With Father’s Day around the corner, I planned to bake with her.
My daughter was excited that we will be baking and that too for her dad. She said she wanted to wear the chef hat, maybe she has seen chefs wearing it in restaurants or on TV. She was feeling so responsible because we were trusting her with this important task. This gave her a great chance to get her hands dirty and experience a wide variety of textures. I tried to just embrace the mess and let her enjoy it. It was kind of fun for her to doodle in the flour all over the kitchen platform. Just seeing kids discover their own potential to work out problems, the struggle to stay patient, and finally, enjoy the cake that they bake, is magical. Let them squish and squeeze the dough and really get into the recipe.
Do not let the words ‘baking with kids’ fill you with terror. Are you scared that they will get hurt or they will get flour everywhere? Well, the answer is yes! It is going to be a messy job and you do have to be extra cautious with kids in the kitchen but the joy of seeing them enjoy will make up for it. The time spent together is really rewarding for all of you. You should invite kids into the kitchen for tremendous fun and delightful treats. It is a brilliant way to bond and make new memories. Lil ones love measuring and mixing things. It is also an important lesson for kids to understand that not only girls should cook, but boys can do so too. These little things when taught from an early stage can help them be a generation we all wanted to be ourselves.
The experience is much more enjoyable when we are focusing on the activity, more than the final product. It not only helps in developing their fine motor skills through all that scooping and stirring but also helps them identify healthy food from unhealthy food. Use the opportunity to inculcate healthy choices in your kids’ minds as they grow up. But beware: baking with kids is messy.
Happy Baking!!
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her.
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Dr Disha Patel has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
14 hours ago
Q. can I take medicine pcm n citrazene in pregnancy fir sore throats n fever
Dr Disha Patel
Ayurvedic Physician
9 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
7 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
6 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
5 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
5 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
4 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts what to do if the baby’s nose is blovked
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
4 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
2 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
17 mins 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
1 hour 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
1 hour 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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