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What Should You Wear for Labour and Delivery?
We all love to get all decked up and dressy for special occasions. Well, your baby’s birth is one of the most important occasions in your life. However, you are not expected to dress up in any of your fineries for that, but you may wonder what you should wear for labour and delivery? In reality, no one pays heed to what you should be wearing for the birthing process, but it surely is important to you. What all criteria you may need to consider for picking up labour and delivery clothes and more are discussed in this article.
What to Wear while in Labour?
As you approach labour, all you may be thinking about is delivering a healthy baby. But a thought may definitely strike in your mind that what to wear to the hospital for labour or what to wear during labour and delivery.
Here we have a few choices for you that you may consider:
1. You May Wear A Gown
A thought of wearing a gown may take back to your prom or first date memories but how about making some beautiful memories with your baby too. Here we are not taking about LBD or little black dress, but we are talking about a comfortable and flowy labour gown that may help in making you feel extremely easy and comfortable. There are many renowned brands that have many options in such gowns that you can choose from. We suggest a cotton knee-length gown which may have a front opening as it may assist your midwife in checking the progress of your labour.
2. You May Wear A Loose-Fitted Dress
A comfy yet pretty dress is also something that you consider for your labour. Many maternity stores have beautiful options available. You may opt for a dress that has a buttoned-down closure in the front, which may not only help you have skin-to-skin contact with your little bunny, but it may also assist you in hassle-free breastfeeding.
3. You May Wear Your Most-Comfy T-Shirt
Many of us have a favourite piece of clothing that we wear most of the time at home because we feel most comfortable with it. If you have something like this, then it may be a good idea to wear that during your difficult time too, which is labour that we are talking about here.
4. You May Wear A Bikini
If you are not afraid of your pregnancy weight or you are not conscious to bare some skin, then you may consider wearing a bikini. Also, bikini may be an ideal option for women who may be planning on having a water birth at home, as it is easy to slip it off.
5. You May Go Bare
If you can dare, you may go bare! Yes, you can be absolutely naked during your labour. Giving birth to a baby is the most beautiful experiences, and no one cares whether you are wearing something or not, because everyone must be concentrating on the birthing process. Also, if you are planning on delivering in the tub or shower, going naked may be a good option to consider.
Important Points to Consider while Dressing for Labour
Even if you are amongst those women, who are considered a fashion icon or who are always in style, being fashionable may be the last thing on your mind when you may be going into labour. So, what is that you need to pay heed to while dressing for labour? Here’s what you may like to keep in mind before rushing to the hospital:
1. Get Rid of The Blingy Things
If you are adorning any earrings, nose rings, fingerings are any such jewellery items, it will be a good idea to remove all of it before heading to the hospital. This is because you may be required to remove all of your jewellery in case you may have to go in for c-section. During such situations, it becomes difficult to take care of valuable belongings, and there is also the risk of misplacing them.
2. Wear Comfortable Clothes
As discussed in the above section, you should try and dress in up comfortable clothes for the hospital, which can be easily changed or removed. Try and wear comfortable footwear too, preferably slip-on shoes so that there is no hassle of tying up the laces or buckling up.
3. Stay Away from Painting Your Nails
Well-manicured hands surely look beautiful, but you may like to skip painting your nails. This is because your nails show a great deal about your health. In case, your oxygen levels start going down your nails will start turning blue and this may be a sign for your doctor to be alert.
4. Skip the Make-Up
If you one of those ladies who likes to stay prim and proper and love to wear makeup on a daily basis, we recommend that you should give it a skip if you are going to the hospital. This is because makeup such as foundation, compact, blusher etc. may make it difficult for your doctor to observe the oxygen level by looking at your skin. Also, you may like to stay away from moisturising your skin too, because if any surgical tape needs to be placed, it may not stick properly.
5. You May Skip Your Underpants
It may sound a bit weird, but you are going to go into labour soon and thus may be required to let go of your undergarments. So, you may remove your underpants at home only and go-commando to the hospital.
We hope that these tips may be useful in bringing a beautiful culmination to your nine months of pregnancy journey. All the best!
Also Read: How to Dress during Pregnancy? Read more
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Impetigo in Children
Skin conditions are common among children, not only because they have vulnerable skin, but also because they are exposed to bacteria and virus frequently at playgrounds and at school. Impetigo is one such skin condition symptomized by sores and patches on the skin.
Video: Impetigo in Children - Signs, Causes & Treatment
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eC80QsVuubQ
What is Impetigo/Infantigo
Impetigo or Infantigo, also known as school sores, is the most common bacterial skin infection caused by the staphylococcus aureus or streptococcus pyogenes bacteria. It can infect both children and adults. Impetigo in kids causes red sores or blisters that break open, peel the skin, ooze fluid, and develop raw patches which dry to form brownish yellow or honey-coloured crust. Such sores are more common around the nose and mouth but can occur anywhere on the body.
Is Impetigo Common in Children?
Impetigo occurs commonly in kids - infants and children. It usually appears as red sores on the face, especially around the mouth and nose. Children in the age group 2-5 years are the most likely to get affected.
Who is at the Risk of Getting Impetigo?
The disease can infect anybody; however, it is not very common in adults. A newborn baby with a weak immune system is at higher risk of contracting Infantigo. It is the most common in pre-schoolers, school going, and socially active kids as they indulge in physical games and often come in close physical contact with other kids.
Different Types of Impetigo
Impetigo can be classified into three major types - Non Bullous, Bullous and Etchyma.
1. Non Bullous Impetigo
This is contagious in nature. It starts as red sores near the nose or mouth which eventually break open, ooze fluid and form honey-coloured crust / scab. This usually heals without leaving a scar. These sores are not very painful but may cause discomfort and irritation. You may notice a swelling of lymph nodes in the affected area. Fever is uncommon in this type of Impetigo. Scratching or touching the area may spread the sores quickly to other parts of the body.
2. Bullous Impetigo
This is common in kids above 2 years of age. It starts as little liquid-filled rankles that may become big, and once they break open, leave yellow scabs. They are generally found on the arms, legs, and torso. They are red in colour and can irritate the skin.
3. Ecthyma
In this case, sores filled with pus turn into ulcers and reach the dermis – the deeper layer of skin. Once they break open, they turn into thick, hard, dark yellow scabs and leave behind scars. Lymph nodes are formed in the affected areas.
Causes
Children are more likely to become infected with Infantigo as their immune system is not fully developed. Here are some of the causes of Impetigo in children:
A cut, scrape, insect bites or lesions on the skin can allow bacteria to infect the child.
Invasion of bacteria because of existing skin infection like scabies, eczema, body lice, etc.
After they have had a cold, allergies can make the skin under the nose raw and vulnerable to bacterial invasion.
Coming in contact with an infected person or touching things that an infected person has been in contact with can transmit the disease.
Poor hygiene and unhealthy and unclean environment are predisposing factors for transmission of Impetigo.
People living in areas with warm weather and moist and humid air are more likely to get infected by Impetigo.
Scratching the infected area will spread it to other body parts.
Is Impetigo Contagious?
This disease spreads very quickly from one person to another. Though it is not airborne, it is highly contagious and spreads through close contact with the infected person. It can also spread by sharing toys, clothes, towel, bedding or any other items used by them. Scratching can spread it to other parts of the body as well.
Symptoms
If you are worried that your child may be afflicted, here are a few symptoms to watch out for:
1. Non-Bulbous Impetigo
A visible patch of red, itchy skin or rash mostly around the nose and mouth
Bruises which burst and ooze pus or fluids after a couple of days and form a yellow crust
Patches around the nose and mouth which can be spread to different parts of the body by touching or scratching
2. Bulbous Impetigo and Ecthyma
Rashes which are bothersome but not painful
Patches which may swell and itch
Bigger rankles appear on trunk or diaper areas of babies in bulbous Impetigo
In cases of ecthyma, where the infection infiltrates deep into the skin, it causes pus-filled sores that may go on to become ulcers
Swelling in lymph nodes
Diagnosing Impetigo in Children
Impetigo in kids can be diagnosed by a simple physical exam of the infected area. The doctor may inquire about health history, symptoms, recent insect bites, cuts, rashes, and contact with infected children or their belongings.
Further diagnosis may be required if symptoms are severe or recurring, or in case the child is not responding to treatment. A swab sample of liquid from the infected areas may be taken to determine the presence of any other skin infections. This is called culture and will help the doctor to determine the course of treatment required to cure the child.
How is Impetigo in Children Treated?
Impetigo may clear on its own in a few weeks. Treatment of the same will also depend on the child’s age, general health condition and severity of symptoms.
Treatment may include antibiotics or anti-microbial drugs in the form of solid dosage or topical cream application to infected areas in order to heal the disease faster. You will be required to clean the infected area with warm water and medicated soap or sanitizer. Clean the area on and around the scabs tenderly to allow the anti-microbial ointment to penetrate deeper into the skin. You may want to wear gloves while handling the infected areas. Wash your hands thoroughly before and after handling the infected areas to avoid spreading the disease to other body parts. Make sure that you complete the prescribed medicine course even if you see the results visually. This is to prevent recurrence of the disease.
It is recommended to keep your kid at home and avoid school, daycare or playtime until he or she is recovered, typically 24 to 48 hours after you start treatment. This is to ensure that other children do not get infected.
Proper hygiene and cleanliness are important to avoid spreading the infection to other parts of the body. Impetigo is contagious, so keep your kids away from infected individuals. Currently, no vaccine is available for immunisation against this disease.
Home Remedies
You will need to take care to ensure that kids do not spread the infection to others or worsen their own condition. The following home remedies can speed up recovery:
Ensure that kids do not scratch or touch the infected areas; if required, loosely wrap a clean dressing bandage around it. In case of infants, cover the hands with mittens. Ensure that kids do not touch the sores. Keep their fingernails short to prevent scratching and spreading of the infection.
Wash and disinfect clothes, bedding, toys, towels, etc., of the infected person and avoid sharing the same.
Prepare antibiotic by mixing one tablespoon of refined white vinegar and some water. Apply this mixture to affected areas for 15 minutes.
A mixture of olive oil, myrrh, and tea tree can be applied to control the spreading of bacteria.
Isolate the child from others till they are completely cured to avoid spreading the infection to other members of the family.
Complications
Children are primary victims as well as carriers of Impetigo. Some children may develop complications resulting from this infection:
The gravest possible complication of Impetigo is a severe kidney disease called ‘poststreptococcal glomerulonephritis’
Rheumatic fever that can involve the heart, joints, skin and brain
Spreading and worsening of infection to other body parts
Scarring – this is common with ecthyma type of Impetigo
Other skin related problems like eczema, body lice, fungal infection, scabies, dermatitis
How To Protect Your Child From Getting Impetigo Again
There may be several reasons for recurrent Impetigo in a child.
The most common reason is incomplete treatment or incomplete course of recommended antibiotics. It is important that your child completes the prescribed treatment even if you can see physical healing.
Disinfect all the items that have come in contact with the kid when he/she was infected with Impetigo. Hygiene and cleanliness play an important role in completely clearing the infection.
Since the disease is highly contagious and can spread among the family members and other children, isolation of the infected person is very crucial to avoid them from getting infected again.
If required, get the swab samples of entire family checked in order to find out the source of recurrence and have the entire family take appropriate treatment. Another round of checking can ensure that the infection has been cleared completely.
How to Prevent Impetigo Kids Spreading Infection to Others
Some basic discipline in terms of hygiene will ensure that kids do not spread this infection to others or make it worse for themselves
Keep them isolated from other children and family members as Impetigo can spread very easily.
Do not let anyone else share or use their belongings like clothes, toys, bedding, towels, etc., to avoid spreading the infection to others.
Disinfect everything that the child has come in contact with while having Impetigo.
Keep their nails short to avoid scratching and spreading the infection to other body parts.
Wrap the wounds in a loose and clean bandage to prevent the child from touching the infected areas often.
Can I Stop My Child From Getting Recurrent Impetigo?
If you observe recurrent impetigo in child, it is advisable that you find the source of recurrence. Here are a few tips to avoid recurrent impetigo attacks in kids:
Swab the samples of the entire family or those who come in frequent contact with the child to find the source of recurrence. Take treatment accordingly.
Ensure that your kid completes the prescribed treatment even if there are visual signs of healing of impetigo. This is to ensure that it is completely cured and will not recur.
Hygiene is very important. Disinfect everything that has been in contact with the kid during the infection.
Impetigo is an infectious condition that is common among children. Maintaining hygiene goes a long way in preventing the incidence of the disease, and in ensuring swift recovery if it is contracted. Read more
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Blood in Urine (Hematuria) in Children
Seeing red urine in children may cause you some alarm. When blood is found in the urine, it is called hematuria. It is quite a common occurrence in children. Most of the time, it is not a serious issue and will go away on its own; at others, it is a symptom of more serious conditions.
What is Hematuria?
The kidneys remove all the waste and fluids from the blood, turning it into urine, which then travels through the ureters, the tubes connecting the kidneys to the bladder, where it is stored and then removed from the body in the form of urination. If blood leaks into the urine at any point in this process, it results in hematuria.
Types of Hematuria
There are two kinds of Hematuria:
Microscopic Hematuria: This type of Hematuria is invisible to the human eye. As the colour of the urine doesn’t change, the only way to know if it is present is through a urine test. Microscopic hematuria does not cause any problems in the body and often goes away without the person realising they ever had it.
Gross Hematuria: Here there are enough red blood cells present in the blood to give it a noticeable red hue. Gross Hematuria also clears up on its own without causing any problems. However, there are chances that it could be a sign of a more serious problem.
What Causes Hematuria in Kids?
There are many different causes for hematuria in kids, some of which include trauma, vigorous exercise, menstruation and viral illness like hepatitis. Even eating a lot of pigmented food, like beetroots and foods rich in red food dye can give the urine a reddish colour in young children and can look like blood in urine of 3-year-old toddler.
Blocked or Cystic Kidneys: Kidneys that are blocked or that have fluid-filled sacs called “cysts” can cause hematuria. A way of determining whether or not this is the case is to have an ultrasound done.
Genetic Diseases: Some genetic diseases running through family lines can also be a cause. Some of these diseases include polycystic kidney disease, inherited nephritis, Alport's syndrome and sickle cell disease.
Too Much Calcium: Hematuria can also be caused by high levels of calcium in the urine. Children with this problem are at a higher risk of developing kidney stones.
Glomerulonephritis: This is a serious illness that could possibly inhibit proper kidney function. In some cases, blood tests can detect the glomerulonephritis, whereas, in others, a kidney biopsy may be needed.
Idiopathic Hematuria: There are some cases where tests have ruled out all known possible causes for hematuria and there is no family history of kidney problems, yet it occurs.
Signs and Symptoms of Hematuria in Children
Hematuria very rarely causes any symptoms on its own, except for if there is too much blood in the urine. Here blood clots can form and block the flow of urine, resulting in pain in the lower pelvic region. Hematuria itself is usually a symptom of other problems.
Glomerulonephritis: Swelling in the lower abdomen, reduced urination and high blood pressure are a few other symptoms that can occur if hematuria is caused by glomerulonephritis.
Kidney or Bladder Infection: Depending on where the infection is, symptoms could include pain on one side of mid back, shaky chills, fever, nausea and vomiting, pain above the groin or bladder region, pain or discomfort during urination, more frequent and foul smelling urine.
Bleeding Disorders: These cause abnormal bleeding throughout the body, including the urine.
Trauma: Other signs of physical trauma like cuts and bruises will be present.
How is Hematuria Diagnosed in Children?
Children with microscopic hematuria who do not have any problems with the functioning of the kidneys and who have normal blood pressure should have their urine tested over several months. If the blood in the urine still occurs, then it is advised to check the urine for protein, calcium and creatinine. A kidney ultrasound should be done.
Children who have high blood pressure, high levels of protein in their urine, a family history of kidney problems and bad blood test results may need to have a kidney biopsy.
Complications of Blood in Children’s Urine
One of the biggest complications of hematuria is that does not have any specific treatments for it. Hematuria itself is considered to be a symptom and not a disease. This means that treatment in each individual case is different as it could be caused by a number of things.
As a result, children may have to undergo many tedious tests in order to find out the root cause of the bleeding. In some cases, it has been able to help diagnose and treat ailments like bleeding disorders and urinary tract infections, but a lot of the time the results do not show any problems, and the child recovers normally, and without medical assistance.
How to Treat Your Child for Hematuria?
As there is no specific treatment for this condition, hematuria in children treatment will involve your doctor turning his attention to the underlying cause of it. Some are as follows:
Urinary Tract Infection: For this, symptoms usually subside after the medication is started. Antibiotics are the usual treatment for urinary tract infection.
Kidney Stones: If the condition is not too serious, drinking large amounts of water and staying active can usually help pass the stones out of the system. However, if the condition is more serious, then your doctor will most likely try the extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (where shock waves are used to break the stone into small pieces). Sometimes surgery is performed.
Kidney Disease: Kidney problems can be very serious and require treatment. Relieving inflammation and preventing further damage to the kidneys is vital no matter what may cause it.
Inherited Diseases: The treatment of different inherited diseases in the kidneys caries greatly. For example, familial hematuria does not require treatment whereas Alport syndrome will require intensive treatment and care.
When to Seek Specialists Help?
A child passing blood in urine as well as having protein in the urine should see a nephrologist (Kidney care specialist). For microscopic hematuria in children when to worry is when it persists for a few months or if it comes with high blood pressure and other symptoms.
Those whose hematuria is caused by kidney stones, urinary tract infection, exercise or medication have a very good chance of complete recovery. For children, hematuria resulting from glomerulonephritis that develops after a strep infection or those whose illness is mild, complete recovery is possible. Those with more serious cases will have to undergo more intensive medical care.
Also Read: All About Baby Circumcision Read more
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"विवाह एक पवित्र रिश्ता" (इस कहानी के माध्यम से बदलते वक्त के आधार पर सामाजिक बदलाव लाने का प्रयास)
शीर्षक – "विवाह एक पवित्र रिश्ता" (कहानी)
सुबह-सुबह! अरे सुनते हो अजय! तुम स्कूल में ठीक से छोड़ आए न मनिषा को? वार्षिक परीक्षा है 12वीं की।
क्यों चिंता करती हो आभा? "अब अपनी बेटी बड़ी हो गई है, उस पर भरोसा रखो। वह स्वयं भी अपना सही-गलत समझती है।"
नहीं जी। "ऐसी बात नहीं है, मुझे अपनी बेटी पर पूर्ण रूप से भरोसा है।" वर्तमान में आस-पड़ोस के माहौल को देखकर थोड़ी बेचैनी होती है।
अभी कल ही की तो बात है| मनिषा बता रही थी कि उसकी सहेली सुषमा की बड़ी बहन सुरेखा को मुंबई से एक दिनेश नामक लड़का, अपने माता-पिता के साथ विवाह के लिये देखने आया| जो अमेरिका में एक मल्टीनेशनल कंपनी में मैनेजर है। "वर और वधु पक्ष की सारी बाते निश्चित होने के बाद तय हुआ कि सुरेखा और दिनेश शादी से पूर्व 6 महिने तक लिवइन-रिलेशनशिप में रहेंगे|" और उसके बाद उनका धूमधाम से विवाह रचाया जाएगा। अब आप ही बताईए, बेचारी सुरेखा क्या जाने लिवइन रिलेशनशनशिप और दिनेश ने बाद में उसे धोखा दे दिया तो?
बदलते वक्त के साथ समाज और रिश्तों की परिभाषा भी बदल गई है। खासकर बड़े शहरों में वह भी विदेशों में चल रही इस प्रक्रिया के अनुसार यहाँ पर शुरू करने में लगे है। "विवाह में बंधने वाले दुल्हा-दुल्हन का पवित्र रिश्ता तो आजकल की युवा पीढ़ी के लिए महज एक हँसी -मजाक या गुड्डे-गुडि़यों का खेल ही रह गया है।"
"ऐसा नहीं है आभा, हम सभी को अपनी सोच सकारात्मक रखने की बहुत जरूरत है।" ठीक है युवा पीढ़ी का विवाह के संबंध में विदेशों के रिवाजों की देखा-देखी बदल गया हो| और अभी हाल ही में सुप्रीम कोर्ट ने लिव इन संबंधों को स्वीकृति दे दी हो, परंतु हाँ वर-वधु के साथ-साथ उनके माता-पिता को भी इसके निर्धारित नियमों को पहले समझना अति-आवश्यक है| ताकि हमारी भारतीय संस्कृति के अनुसार विवाह एक पवित्र रिश्ता जिंदगी भर निभाने में सरलता हो सके।
"नहीं अजय ऐसी बात नहीं है| मैं भी सकारात्मक ही सोचती हूँ पर सुरेखा की पूर्व की कहानी शायद आप जानते नहीं है| पहले भी उसके साथ कुछ ऐसा घटित हो चुका है जो नहीं होना चाहिये था।"
“आभा कुछ बताओगी भी” कि ऐसे ही विचार व्यक्त करते रहेंगे हम लोग? लेकिन रूको अभी, आज मनिषा की आखिरी परीक्षा है, मैं उसे लेकर आता हूँ। "फिर अपन सब एक साथ तुम्हारे हाथों से बने स्वादिष्ट भोजन का आनंद भी लेंगे और साथ ही सुरेखा की कहानी भी सुनेंगे ताकि मनिषा भी सुने।"
"मेरा तो मानना है आभा, कि हमारे जैसे हर माता-पिता जिनके बच्चे 12वीं कक्षा में पहुँचे हों, और चाहे वह बेटा हो या बेटी| इस विषय पर परिवार में उनके साथ खुलकर चर्चा होनी चाहिये ताकि जब वे कॉलेज की पायदान पर पहुचेंगे तब उन्हें अपना हर कदम, भला-बुरा सोच-समझकर उठाने में सहायता मिलेगी।"
फिर अजय मनिषा को लेकर आता है और सभी साथ में भोजन करते हैं। चलो मनिषा बेटी अपना भोजन भी हो गया है, अब तुम्हारी मम्मी कहानी सुनाएँगी जो तुम्हें भी शायद पता नहीं है।
हाँ, मम्मी सुनाओं न, मै भी सुनने के इच्छुक हूँ।
तो सुनो बेटी तुमने अपनी सहेली सुषमा की बड़ी बहन सुरेखा के बारे में बताया था न? वह तुमने अभी की स्थिति बताई, पहले उस बेचारी पर क्या बीती यह किसी को भी ठीक से मालूम नहीं है, "वह तो एक समाज सेवी संस्थान में जहाँ मैं बीच-बीच में जाती रहती हूँ। वहाँ पुरानी सहेली ज्योती मिल गई, सो उसने बताया।"
सुरेखा जो परिवार की बड़ी बेटी थी और घर में दादी से लेकर सभी रिश्तेदार उसकी शादी के बारे में ही हमेशा पूछापाछी करते| दिन-ब-दिन उम्र भी होती जा रही थी न उसकी, पर सुरेखा ने कला विषय के साथ एम.ए. की परीक्षा उत्तीर्ण की थी| और वह अपने पैरों पर खड़े होना चाहती थी| शादी के बारे में उसका दूर-दूर तक कोई विचार भी नहीं था। "उसके विचारों से सहमत होकर माता-पिता ने भी उसका हमेशा की तरह आगे बढ़ने में साथ दिया।" सुरेखा को कलाकृति संस्थान से जुड़ी और उसको ऐसे ही अभ्यास करते-करते छोटे-छोटे सीरियल्स एवं नाटकों में भाग लेने का अवसर मिलने लगा| और मुंबई में उसके साथियों की अच्छी-खासी मंडली बन गई। "अब तो सुरेखा के वारे ही न्यारे हो गए और सब जगह से कार्यक्रम प्रस्तुत करने के लिये बुलावा भी आने लगा।"
"ऐसे ही दिन गुजरते गए, सुषमा छोटी थी सुरेखा से जो हमारी मनिषा संग एक स्कूल में पढ़ती है| पर सुरेखा बड़ी होने के कारण माता-पिता को दिन-ब-दिन उसकी शादी की चिंता सताए जा रही थी| पिताजी का रिटायरमेंट भी पास में था।" खैर! माता-पिता के सोचने से क्या फर्क पड़ता है, होता वही है जो किस्मत में लिखा होता है।
अजय समझ में नहीं आता शादी का यह पवित्र रिश्ता जो पति-पत्नि को जिंदगी भर साथ निभाना होता है, जैसे कि हर परिस्थिति में हम दोनों निभा रहे हैं। पता नहीं आजकल इसको हँसी-खेल क्यों समझा जाता है?
अब सुरेखा का सपना सच हो चला था, उसे मनपसंद काम जो चुना था| पर घर में दादी पिताजी को सुरेखा की शादी करने हेतु बहुत उकसा रही थी। "दादी और माता-पिता को सोचना चाहिए था, शादी जैसा पवित्र बंधन जिसकी बागडोर सिर्फ विश्वास पर टिकी होती है, बिना कुछ सोचे-समझे सुरेखा का रिश्ता पक्का कर दिया।"
सुरेखा अपने काम से जब घर आई, तो उसकी माँ ने बताया कि समीप के रिश्तेदार ही हैं समधि जी। इकलौता लड़का है और उनका मुंबई में ही कपड़ों का व्यवसाय है| जो बेटा और पिता मिलकर करते हैं, अच्छा-खासा मुनाफा हो जाता है। "लड़के का नाम राजेश है बेटी, तुमको और कुछ पूछना हो तो अपने पिताजी से पूछ लेना।"
सुरेखा ने दूसरे ही दिन अपने पिता से राजेश से एक बार मिलने की इच्छा जताई तो पिता ने कहा कि अपनी रिश्तेदारी में ही है और देखने-दिखाने की क्या जरूरत? दादी ने हाँ कर दी है और मैं कुछ सुनना नहीं चाहता बेटी और "फिर उम्र भी तो निकली जा रही न तुम्हारी और हाँ उन्होंने कहा है कि तुम्हें अब काम करने की जरूरत भी नहीं है।"
"यह सुनकर सुरेखा क्या बोलती, अपने माता-पिता और दादी की आज्ञा का पालन करते हुए बिना जाने-पहचाने व्यक्ति से सिर्फ कि वे रिश्तेदारी में करके शादी के लिए हाँ कर दी और करती भी क्या बेचारी। बार-बार के शादी के तानों से तंग आ चुकी थी सो हाँ कर दी।"
फिर क्या था, चट मग्नि पट ब्याह भी संपन्न हो गया| सुषमा छोटी थी, इतनी समझ नहीं थी उसको, पर सुरेखा विदाई के समय बहुत रोई, अपने माता-पिता से मिलकर। "वे ही तो उसके जीवन के पालनहार और सर्वस्व हैं।"
सास-ससुर एवं राजेश संग आ गई ससुराल सुरेखा, उसे कुछ मालुम ही नहीं था| अपनी ससुराल के बारे में और न ही माता-पिता ने भी कुछ पूछताछ करने की जरूरत समझी। "शादी जैसा पवित्र रिश्ता रिश्तेदारी में ही है और बिल्कुल आँखे बंद करके विश्वास के साथ कर दिया।" पर सुरेखा का संघर्ष अभी यही खत्म नहीं हुआ था| ससुराल में नई-नवेली बहु की न कोई रस्म और न ही कोई रिवाज, मन ही मन सोच रही सुरेखा यह कैसा विवाह हुआ भला?
"विवाह के पहले दिन सासुमाँ बोली, राजेश किसी काम से गया है करके और रोज बेचारी राह देखे और राजेश रात को घर में रहता ही नहीं।" दिन भर अपने व्यवसाय में व्यस्त और रात में ऐसा, अब तो सुरेखा को नई ही तस्वीर देखने को मिली ससुराल में, और तो और उसका काम भी छुड़वा दिया। अब वह करे तो क्या करे, विवाह जैसे पवित्र बंधन में जो दो दिलों के पवित्र रिश्तों के साथ ही दो परिवारों के मधुर रिश्तों को बनाए रखता है| सुरेखा के दुल्हन के रूप में देखे हुए सपने एक पल में धराशाई होते नज़र आने लगे।
अब वह करे तो क्या करें? माता-पिता और दादी से भी बोल नहीं सकती थी। "फिर उसने ठान लिया कि राजेश का राज जानकर ही रहेगी, आखिर उसने फिर शादी की ही क्यों मुझसे?" इतने में क्या देखती है सुरेखा कि रात को 12 बजे राजेश शराब के नशे में धूत होकर किसी लड़की के साथ घर आया, अब तो सुरेखा के होश उड़ गए। "राजेश भी सुरेखा को कुछ गलत बातें बोलने लगा, अब तो सुरेखा रोज ही इस तरह से जुल्म बर्दाश्त करने लगी। "आखिर एक दिन सास-ससुर से हिम्मत करके पूछ ही लिया कि अपने अय्याश बेटे के साथ मेरी शादी क्यों रचाई? और इस पवित्र रिश्ते का महत्व नहीं समझा आप लोगों ने। "आप लोगों को क्या लगा, शादी जो है गुड्डे-गुडि़यों का खेल या कोई हँसी-मजाक?"
सास-ससुर बोले अरे बेटी सब्र रखो, थोड़े दिनों में सब ठीक हो जाएगा। हम थोड़े ही आए थे, यह रिश्ता लेकर, वो तो तुम्हारे पिताजी ने पूछा तो हमने हाँ कर दी और राजेश से भी नहीं पूछा इस रिश्ते के बारे में।
सुरेखा सिसक-सिसककर रोने लगी और बोली अरे माँजी ये तो सरासर धोखा है और आप लोगों ने पिताजी से जैसा चाहा वैसा ही विवाह संपन्न कराया उन्होंने, "फिर आपको राजेश से पूछ लेना चाहिए था पहले।" अभी भी आप अपने बेटे को कुछ भी समझा नहीं रहे हैं, "आखिर आपको मेरी जिंदगी बरबाद करके क्या मिला?"
"फिर राजेश से बात की, तो वह बोला कि मैं तो ऐसे ही जिंदगी बसर करुँगा, कोई ज़ोर-जबरदस्ती है क्या?" सुरेखा से कहा कि तुम्हे जो करना है वह कर लो, तुम मेरी तरफ से आज़ाद हो। वह तो अच्छा हुआ था कि सुरेखा ने अपना काम पूरी तरह से बंद नहीं किया था| "सो अपने साथियों संग पुन: काम शुरू कर दिया ताकि मन लगा रहे और माता-पिता को अभी कुछ भी नहीं बताया।" उसने सोचा कि शायद कोई राह निकल आए और थोड़ा समय भी लिया सोच-विचार करने के लिए। पर जब एक दिन सारी हदें पार कर दी राजेश ने तो "इसने अपना ससुराल छोड़कर हमारी समाज-सेवी संस्था में शरण ली, माता-पिता के पास नहीं गई, बहुत नाराज़ थी उनसे और फिर वे उसकी बात सुनते नहीं, क्योंकि पहले भी नहीं सुनी, इस तरह से विश्वास टूटता है रिश्तों में जो सबको बनाए रखना अनिवार्य है।"
समाज-सेवी संस्था ने उसको राजेश से तलाक लेने संबंधी सहायता प्रदान की और सारी औपचारिकताएँ पूर्ण करते हुए सुरेखा के माता-पिता को भी बुलाया। वस्तु-स्थिति से अवगत कराया और कहा देखिए व सोचिए, "आज आपने बेटी सुरेखा का भविष्य संवारा है या बिगाड़ा है।" उसकी शादी का फैसला बिना सोचे-समझे और "सुरेखा से बिना कुछ पुछे किये जाने का अंजाम देख लिया आप लोगों ने।"
अब आपसे विनती कर रहे हैं कि उसकी जिंदगी उसे स्वतंत्र जीने दिजीये और "शादी जैसे पवित्र रिश्तें में बांधने से पहले उसे विचार तो करने दिजीए।"
इसलिए अजय और मनिषा तुम्हें यह कहानी सुनना जरूरी थी, मैं चाहती हूं कि तुम भी अब 12वीं कक्षा में आ गई हो तो ऐसे ही जिंदगी के उतार-चढ़ावों की कहानी से तुम भी कुछ सिखोगी ही न? "आखिर मैं भी एक माँ हूँ और तुम मेरे और अजय के रिश्ते को बचपन से देख रही हो बेटी, साथ ही हमारी भारतीय संस्कृति निभाना भी नितांत आवश्यक है।"
इसलिये अजय वर्तमान में फिर से जो सुरेखा फैसला लेने जा रही है,अपनी जिंदगी का| मुझे लगता है कि युवा पीढ़ी के हिसाब से सही निर्णय हो भी सकता है| पर अपने माता-पिता और सुषमा के साथ अच्छी तरह से विचार-विमर्श कर ही लेना चाहिए| "साथ ही लिवइन रिलेशनशिप के नियमों को विस्तृत जानने के पश्चात ही कोई निर्णय ले| ताकि पूर्व की तरह बाद में पछताना न पड़ें।"
"हाँ भाई आभा तुम बिल्कुल सही फरमा रही हो , आखिर तुम समाज-सेवी संस्था से जुड़ने के पश्चात काफी जागरूक जो हों गई हो।"
यह सब सुनकर मनिषा बोली माँ तुम्हारी मिशन सक्सेसफुल रही है और मैं अब समझ गई हूँ। भविष्य में आपसे यह वादा करती हूँ कि शादी जैसे पवित्र रिश्ते के संबंध में आप दोनों की सहमति से ही राजीखुशी कोई भी निर्णय लूँगी|
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5 Perfect Dresses for Valentine's Day
A new mom? Not sure what to wear for Valentine's day? Choosing an outfit can often be difficult, especially after pregnancy and childbirth. Understanding your body and embracing the newly formed curves will revive your confidence in yourself, and you'll need this confidence to dress yourself in the most exquisite dress on Valentine's day. It is a day where perfect is used with almost everything -the perfect date (read husband), the perfect venue, the perfect gift, the perfect make-up, and, of course, the perfect outfit.
Surprise your husband by wearing something elegant and sensual this Valentine’s day. Whether you are going out for a dinner date or staying at home, pick a dress that will make him say, “Wow”.
Here are five types of dresses you can wear to look sexy for your husband this Valentine’s day.
1. Short Dresses
If you have those legs worth drooling over, it is the right time to show it off. Don’t hide those legs to create a slimmer look. Nothing says ‘fun’ than a timeless wrap dress. Try a soft knit dress wrapped around the body, secured by a knot at the waist and clinched at the bust line, enhancing your curves. It will give definition to your body. An Empirewaist dress with a V-neck will accentuate your bust and make you look more desirable. Wear dangling earrings instead of a neck piece. A V-neck Empirewaist dress will shift the attention from your belly to your beautiful neckline. Choose monotones or colour-block Empirewaist dresses.
2. Maxi Dresses
Maxi dresseswill bring out your femininity, and there is no better occasion to bring out the girl in you, than Valentine’s Day. It drapes perfectly over the stomach area. A floral print in Chiffon or Georgette looks splendid. If you are feeling a little adventurous, pick out hues of burgundy and peach. With flats and minimal accessories, you will look like a million dollars.
3. Skirts
Loose, short skirts with elastic teamed with a semi-fit top drapes perfectly to hide the problem spot. Bold floral prints teamed with a neutral shirt and the right chunky accessories will make your man go weak in the knees. While choosing a skirt, go for light fabrics. Avoid pleated and gathered skirts, as they’ll not flatter your curves.
4. Empire Waist Shirts
An Empire waist shirt is a classy alternative to dresses. Team it with neutral colour leggings. A sequenced neckline will be apt for the romantic occasion. The fitted bodice will let the rest of the material drape itself nicely over the body. It will create an illusion of length and help camouflage your heavier lower body. The icing on the cake is that it will flatter almost all body types.
5. Palazzo Pants with Loose Tops
If you have an entire day planned out with your husband, then go for comfortable clothes. Pair your palazzo with semi-fitted tops and let your dress do all the talking. Neutral tones are in this season.Besides, no one should get a seizure looking at all those colours and prints.
Valentine’s Day is all about romance. Dress to impress your man, but also remember that comfort is key. Invest in a good shapewear to give you those extra curves you so very desire. Lastly, put up your best and strut with confidence. Read more
Sunita Mahato has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 m old child
5 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts How to increase quantity of milk production?
Sunita Mahato
Mom of 3 children
5 hours ago
A. to increase milk take latction supplement as lactare...
take green papaya bottle gourd bitter gourd fennel seeds garlic oats ragi dalia sabudana ...
regular pumping increase milk use Babyhug electric breast pump...
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
5 hours ago
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
4 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
4 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
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4 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
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Q. hi,
pls advice , after hcg tigger injection can we do intercourse to conceive and till when we can do ...trying to conceive
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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
11 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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