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Is It Safe to Take Steroids during Pregnancy?
Steroids during pregnancy may sound too scary. However, they’re absolutely safe. Expecting mothers can take steroids (only on prescription) for numerous pre-existing health conditions like asthma, lupus and skin problems. They are mostly prescribed when the doctor feels that the pregnant woman may go into pre-term labour. The use of steroids in such a case helps the baby’s lungs, brain and intestine to mature quickly.
Why Do Steroids Become Necessary During Pregnancy?
In early pregnancy, steroids are given for treating recurring miscarriages or foetal abnormalities. Doctors often prescribe steroid drugs known as corticosteroids for preterm labour. Babies born before the full term (i.e. 37th week) are at a risk of respiratory distress and death due to underdeveloped lungs. The use of steroids expedites the development of the lungs of preterm babies and increases their chances of survival.
Steroids also lower the risk of brain haemorrhage and a serious bowel disorder called necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) in premature babies.
What Do Steroids Do?
Steroids are believed to have numerous benefits. Some of them are:
They can delay a preterm delivery, thus reducing the risk of respiratory morbidity.
Steroids help to develop the various organs and body parts of preemies faster.
They can do wonders for women who have a history of miscarriage.
They are beneficial for pregnant women with health problems like asthma, lupus and skin disorders.
Consuming steroids also lowers the risk of brain damage and Neonatal Respiratory Distress Syndrome (NRDS) in premature babies.
The intestines of a preterm newborn are underdeveloped and weak. Therefore, steroids help in protecting the baby from intestinal infections and bowel issues.
What Is the Recommended Dosage?
Steroids during pregnancy are safe if prescribed by a gynaecologist. The dosage is:
In case of unexpected preterm labour, a minimum of two doses are given, 12 or 24 hours apart.
If necessary, the dose may be repeated after it has been taken more than a week before.
As per doctor’s advice, the steroid can also be taken weekly for a long duration.
Who Can Take Steroids?
Steroids can be taken:
From the 24th to the 36th week of pregnancy
If preterm labour is imminent.
By women having asthma or bronchial infections
For recurrent miscarriages or foetal abnormalities.
Who Shouldn’t Take Steroids?
Women who suffer from diabetes or chorioamnionitis shouldn’t take steroids.
Side Effects of Taking Steroids During Pregnancy
There are two sides to a coin. Here are some side effects of taking steroids:
Steroids aggravate blood pressure.
A condition called pulmonary oedema (water retention in the lungs) occurs if the person is taking steroids with medication to prevent preterm labour.
A person with diabetes or gestational diabetes should not take steroids since it could increase the blood sugar level.
In some cases babies born of mothers who took steroids during pregnancy, weigh less when born.
The risk of cleft lip is 6 times more in newborns when the mother takes steroids in the first trimester.
It is also said that multiple doses of steroids during pregnancy can have a negative effect on fetal intrauterine growth.
It can also result in a decrease of the foetal heart rate variation.
Multiple doses of corticosteroid can cause an increase in infections like endometritis.
Antenatal steroids (ANS) like corticosteroids have a lot many benefits; they have been successful in saving many preterm babies from the jaws of death. However, the use of steroids during pregnancy can also have serious and long-lasting effects on the baby and the mother. So, never take this medication without a prescription.
Also Read: How to Prevent Preterm Labour Read more
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Pregnancy Stages - Conception to Labour
Counting from the first day of your last period, pregnancy lasts for about 40 weeks. Most women aren’t aware of it until the second month when they miss their period. Pregnancy stages, week by week are grouped into three trimesters when hormonal and bodily changes can be anticipated. Continue reading to understand how your body changes while your baby grows through stages of pregnancy month by month.
What are the Stages of Pregnancy
There are several stages during pregnancy. Know what they are:
Conception
This first stage of pregnancy begins with a sperm cell fertilizing the egg. To understand the process better, it can be divided into following steps:
Every month a bunch of eggs called oocytes get ready for ovulation, which is the release of an egg from the ovary. Each egg develops inside a fluid-filled cyst called a follicle and only one of those follicles reaches maturation. The rest degenerate.
During ovulation, the follicle breaks to release an egg from the ovary. The ruptured follicle develops into what’s called a corpus luteum which secretes the hormones progesterone and estrogen. Progesterone prompts the endometrial lining of the uterus to develop for a possible pregnancy.
If the released egg meets a sperm and is fertilized by it, your baby’s genetic makeup reaches completion, including its sex. This fertilized egg within 24 hours of fertilization divides rapidly into many cells and moves slowly along the fallopian tube for about three days on its way to the uterus. It is now called a blastocyte.
Its next task is to attach itself to the uterine wall, a process called implantation. The blastocyte sheds its protective covering and it makes contact with the uterine wall. Exchange of hormone helps it to attach itself. Some women at this point notice a slight bleeding called spotting for one or two days during the time of the implantation and it is one of the early stages of pregnancy symptoms. If successful, the uterine wall becomes thicker and the cervix gets sealed by a mucus plug marking the beginning of your pregnancy. If the blastocyte fails to implant, it naturally passes out of the body.
In about three weeks, the blastocyte is in the form of a tiny ball and is now called an embryo with the baby’s first nerve cells forming. Skipping of your next period indicates pregnancy if it is confirmed by the urine test. The test looks for the pregnancy hormone human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG).
First Trimester
Conception is part of the first-trimester pregnancy stages. The first trimester spans from week one to twelve and brings many changes.
Changes in Mother’s Body
The first trimester brings about a lot of changes in your body with hormones affecting every organ and system. The changes trigger plenty of unpleasant symptoms with your periods stopping being a clear sign of pregnancy. The other symptoms include:
Swollen and tender breasts and protruded nipples
Exhaustion
Morning sickness and upset stomach with or without vomiting
Distaste for certain foods and craving for other foods
Mood swings
Frequent urination
Constipation
A headache
Heartburn
Weight gain or weight loss
As the body changes you might have to make changes to your routine to cope with it such as going to bed earlier or eating small and frequent meals. Symptoms usually disappear in time and some women may not feel them at all.
Changes in the Foetus
Month 1:
In the first week, the blastocyte implants into the uterine wall and begins to multiply. The placenta begins forming to nourish the baby.
Heartbeat starts around the 21st day and the nervous system with spinal cord and nerves and muscles begin developing by week four.
Month 2:
At this point, it is an embryo and a fraction of an inch long.
The circulatory system begins to form with the heart in place.
Stomach, liver, and pancreas begin to form.
The limb buds can be seen.
Facial features begin to develop by the end of the month.
Month 3:
Bones, muscles, fingers, toes, and teeth buds begin to develop. Post 8 weeks, it is called a foetus.
The skin is transparent, eyelids are closed.
Muscles and nerves continue to develop.
By the end of the third month, the foetus is close to 10cm long and weighs around 28 grams.
Second Trimester
The second trimester is what most women find to be the easiest as their morning sickness and fatigue is past them and they start feeling good. Though, the changes to your body continue with the abdomen beginning to expand from week 13 to week 27.
Changes in Mother’s Body
As your body prepares to make room for your baby, you may experience symptoms such as:
Body ache involving back, abdomen, thigh and groin pain
Darkening of the skin around nipples
Stretch marks on the skin of your breasts, abdomen, buttocks and thighs
A visible line of skin starting from the belly button to pubic hairline
Numbness or tingling hands; carpal tunnel syndrome
Patches of dark skin on the forehead, cheeks, upper lip, and nose. Sometimes called the mask of pregnancy, they can appear on both sides of the face
Swelling of face, fingers, and ankles
Itching on the palms, abdomen, and feet
Changes in the Foetus
Month 4:
Suckling action in the mouth
Fingernails, eyebrows, and eyelashes are formed
Skin appears to be wrinkled and fingerprints are evident
The kidneys start functioning and produce urine
It’s possible to identify the sex of the baby by an ultrasound scan
Bowel movements commence and meconium is produced in the intestines
Month 5:
The foetus is about 15 cms in length and weighs close to 250 grams
Movements become more frequent
A fine hair called lanugo appears on the skin along with a waxy coating called vernix to protect the fragile skin
Month 6:
Baby responds to sound by moving or increasing the pulse. You may also notice jerks if they hiccup
Bone marrow starts forming red blood cells by now
The eyes begin to open and hair starts growing
Genitals develop faster
By the end of 6 months, the baby is close to 30 cm long and weighs nearly 900 grams
Third Trimester
Some of the discomforts of the second trimester may continue to the third. Added to that, the uterus applies pressure on the organs. Breathing might seem a little difficult and you’ll have the urge to go to the bathroom often.
Changes in Mother’s Body
Shortness of breath and heartburn
Tender breasts which might leak a watery fluid called colostrum
Belly button sticks out
Swelling of the face, fingers, and ankles
Trouble sleeping
Constipation and haemorrhoids
Baby moving lower into the abdomen or “dropping”
False contractions which might feel like labour
Changes in the Foetus
Month 7:
A baby’s eyes open and close and respond to light from the outside. He/she can also hear and recognize voices
Breathing motions begin although the lungs are still developing
Skeleton is fully formed and starts stretching the limbs
Kicks become forceful
Baby grows about 35 cms long and weighs between 900 grams to 1.8Kg
Month 8:
Gains weight quickly
Bones become harder but the skull stays soft
Reduced movements
Measures 40 to 45 cm long and weighs close to 2.7Kg
Month 9:
The organs are fully developed
Measures 48 to 53 cm long and weighs close to 4 kilos
Baby starts to move into an optimal position for labour
Delivery can occur anywhere between 36 to 40 weeks
Labour
Labour is the last stage of pregnancy when you’re anticipating the birth of your child. Labour occurs in three stages:
It begins with strong contractions that are periodic. Contractions become closer and longer while being felt for 60- 90 seconds, every two to three minutes. Your amniotic sac ruptures spilling the fluid and the cervix begins to dilate.
Contractions become stronger and the cervix dilates to about 10 cms to make way for the baby. Along with contractions, you push the baby into the birthing canal and the head comes out first.
The baby is born but the contractions continue to release the placenta. It would take about 15 – 20 minutes for the placenta to come out after the baby is born.
These labour stages apply to a normal delivery. In the case of a C section, however, an incision is made into the abdomen to remove the baby.
Pregnancy is a lifetime experience when the changes in your body are a wonderful reminder of your baby developing inside you.
Also Read: Caesarean Delivery – All About C-Section Birth Read more
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5 Ideas to Tickle your Baby's Funny Bone
Whether it is through the delightful sound of their laughter or their curious expressions, your baby can make you smile like never before. Just use these helpful tips and sounds that make babies laugh to sit back and watch your cherub rolling on the floor!
Who doesn't love a happy baby? They make life's woes and troubles disappear in a blink! Did you know that your baby can break into a riotous laughing fit if .
you know the right ways to make your baby smile head to toe? Favorite lullaby sessions, regular sleeping hours, bear hugs, cuddles and these tips for giggly fits can make your precious darling a happy baby.
5 Ways to Make your Baby Laugh
1. Tickles all the way
You may be unaware of the ‘sweet spots’ of your ticklish baby... until you hit the jackpot! The giggle spot could be anywhere under the armpits, chin, feet or on the side ribs. Tickle your baby and watch them laugh. If you have not experienced your baby’s uncontrollable giggles yet, keep trying and you just might make him go pink the next time you're changing diapers!
2. That didn’t sound like you mom, chuckle!
Be creative and start conceptualizing sounds that make babies laugh. Funny as the act may sound, you'll surely enjoy the reactions of your precious darling as you make swishing, swirling or wheezing sounds. Kids often break into long bouts of laughter if they hear a sound that’s appealing, crazy or simply too funny to even comprehend.
3. Silly gnawing acts for more crackles
Hear your baby squeal with delight by pretending to bite his cute little toes or the T-shirt he's wearing. In fact, just carry on with your childish act until you find the right place that makes him laugh out his ribs. The downside? Your baby will probably be thinking ‘how silly can my mom be?’ It's okay! You can do the most frivolous things to make a baby laugh. After all, anything for a good laugh, right?
4. Pass the bug
Laughter, like yawning, is often contagious. So, if you know how to make a baby laugh, you would know that seeing you giggle sets him off too. As an instinctive reflex, he flashes goofy grins, opens his eyes wide to see what’s making you go hysterical and follows suit. Need you ask for more?
5. Amusing pets for more laughs
If you're still wondering what makes a baby laugh, then think animals. Their furry coat, unusual movements, and unheard sounds can make babies shoot ripples of laughter and how. Try introducing a friendly pet to your baby. An aquarium or zoo is an equally good idea for showing off animals that end up amusing your baby if you have no pets at home.
Try out everything within your means to hear those blissful chuckles. When you see your baby smiling ear to ear, your efforts will have been totally worth it! Read more
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Ragi Puri
Ragi is rich in calcium, iron, fibre and is versatile. Ragi is a popular weaning food and is very nutritious for your entire family. Even the most stubborn toddlers like puri and thic be a great way to include the nutritious Ragi in their diet.Though deep fried, Ragi's health benefits make up for the excess oil. This recipe doesn’t deviate much from the usual puri recipe and is fairly simple to make.
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
2 People
10-15 Minutes
10 Minutes
Ingredients
1 cup wheat flour
1 cup ragi flour
1/2 cup water
Salt to taste
Oil for deep frying
Method
Step 1
Knead the wheat and ragi flours together to make a soft dough with water.
Step 2
Make small balls out of the dough and flatten them with a pin to make a puri.
Step 3
Heat the oil in a wok and deep fry the puris one by one.
Step 4
Remove on absorbent paper and serve with a side dish of choice.
Nutritional Information
Calories
209 K cal
Proteins
13.3 g
Fats
14.4 g
Carbohydrates
5.8 g
Cholesterol
19.3 mg
Sodium
337 mg
Potassium
105 mg
Tip: For frying, add approximately 10 grams of fat per serving which will add up the calories by around at 90 Kcal. Read more
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#TricolourRecipe Instant Appam
Appam - easy-to-make, instant version of idlis and tastes awesome!! Crispy from outside and requires very less oil. A healthy snack for everyone at anytime of the day!
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
4 People
25 Minutes
10 Minutes
Ingredients
1 cup Rava/Semolina
6 tbsp plain yoghurt
2 tbsp spinach paste for green appam
2 tbsp carrot puree for orange appam
1-1/2 tsp baking powder or 1/2 sachet of Eno
Salt (according to taste)
1/3 cup water
2-4 tbsp of oil for cooking
Method
Step 1
Beat yoghurt with 1/3 cup water for 2-3 minutes. See to it that there are no lumps remaining.
Step 2
Add rava to this mixture, mix it slowly and make a batter by adding more water if required. The batter should of medium consistency - neither too thin nor too thick. Keep it aside for 10 minutes.
Step 3
Now, add baking powder and salt to the mixture. If you don't have baking powder, you can add 1/2 sachet of eno (fruit salt).
Step 4
Divide the batter into three equal portions in three separate containers.
Step 5
In the first container, add carrot puree. Mix well.
Step 6
In the second container, add a little more yogurt. Mix well.
Step 7
In the third container, add spinach paste. Mix well.
Step 8
All the three batters should be of the same consistency.
Step 9
Lightly oil the appam pan with cooking oil or olive oil. Add mustard seeds to the oil.
Step 10
Pour the batter carefully into the pan; sprinkle some oil over it and let it cook for 5 minutes on low to medium heat.
Step 11
Flip them over and let the other side cook.
Step 12
Remove them when they are cooked and they are ready to be served.
Step 13
Enjoy them with chutney or hot sambar!
Read more
Nikitha has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
6 hours ago
Q. Mera 8 month start hu white distance hora mere ko
Nikitha
Mom of a 9 yr 5 m old boy
6 hours ago
A. hello since u are a expecting mom this would require a proper medical attention and it is better to check with your doctor and your doctor will be able to guide you better on examination of the same and advise you accordingly
Akifa Tahreem has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 7 months
6 hours ago
Q. hello doctor, I'm 3 weeks pregnant. can we sleep on our belly or which side We can sleep on during pregnancy...
Akifa Tahreem
Mom of a 7 m old boy
4 hours ago
A. no you can't sleep in your tummy
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
3 hours ago
Q. @ask_the_expert
#ask the expert
I am having pcod problem.
when should I check pregnancy test at home?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
1 hour ago
A. If you have missed your periods you can wait for one week more and then do a urine pregnancy test to know about the pregnancy result and consult with your doctor according to the result for medication
Dr Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
3 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
At which day should I take pregnancy test
Dr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
1 hour ago
A. after 2 weeks. do ultrasound n necessary tests after consulting a specialist. without proper check up we can't advise or help you.. Avoid shirt cuts when it comes to health if mother n baby. ok.
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
3 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
when should I take pregnancy test?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
1 hour ago
A. after missed your periods you can wait for one week more ,then you can do a urine pregnancy test to know about the pregnancy result and consult with your doctor according to the result for medication
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
3 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
but having regular cycles below 35 days. some time it will extended upto 40 days.
so when should I take pregnancy test at home?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
1 hour ago
A. If you have missed your periods you can wait for one week more or else you can do a urine pregnancy test to know about the pregnancy result and consult with your doctor according to the result for medication.
The best treatment to have Regular periods is by having a healthy lifestyle with regular daily walking or jogging along with mild exercise and meditation whenever possible. as medications will only act till you are taking them
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