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The Complete Guide to Lose FUPA (Fat Upper Pubic Area)
Excess fat is never welcome, no matter which area of the body it appears on or accumulates in. One such type of excess fat is FUPA. Let’s understand FUPA – what is it, what causes it, and how to get rid of it.
Excess fat is never welcome, no matter which area of the body it appears on or accumulates in. One of the common areas that are a cause of worry for many women – especially post-pregnancy – is the fat that accumulates in the upper pubic area, also known as FUPA. It is especially stubborn and can give the strongest of women nightmares! Let’s understand FUPA – what is it, what causes it, and how to get rid of it.
What is FUPA and How Does it Develop?
FUPA is an acronym for Fat Upper Pubic Area. It refers to the fat deposition that is observed in the area below the belly button and above your pubic hairline. While FUPA may not bother all people, it becomes a painful reality of post-pregnancy life for many women.
The human female body collect fat in the trunk area during pregnancy to cushion the foetus developing within. It also strengthens and nourishes the muscles in that region, preparing for childbirth. However, post-pregnancy, many women find it difficult to shed off this weight (and the overall weight they have gained in the nine months.)
If you think you're the only one who hasn't heard of this term before, don't worry! FUPA is a relatively uncommon term, although the phenomenon certainly isn't. In fact, Beyonce popularised the term in an interview with Vogue magazine where she mentioned the following about having gained weight after giving birth to her twins:
"To this day my arms, shoulders, breasts, and thighs are fuller. I have a little mommy pouch, and I’m in no rush to get rid of it. I think it’s real. Whenever I’m ready to get a six-pack, I will go into beast zone and work my ass off until I have it. But right now, my little FUPA and I feel like we are meant to be."
The comment drew lots of praise for Beyonce, and rightfully so! The pressure to fit into pre-pregnancy clothes in a rush sure leaves a lot of new moms disheartened and discouraged, especially when they see the weight they've gained in unexpected places. But as Queen B has proclaimed, the weight gain is real for most women; even the ones who literally live at the gym and eat, sleep, and breathe healthy! So chin up, ladies! Embrace the changes that your body has gone through while working to produce a little miracle - and jump into committed action when you're ready to lose your FUPA!
Possible Causes of FUPA
Apart from pregnancy, FUPA can accumulate for the following reasons in both women and men:
1. Genetics
The distribution of fat-cells (known as adipose tissue) in the body varies from person to person, so that more fat cells in a particular area may lead to more fat accumulation there. This distribution often runs in families, contributing to a genetic factor of accumulation of FUPA.
2. Stress
Imagine you are at the start-line of a race... but are not running the race. Imagine being stuck at ‘get-set’ and never hearing the ‘go’ so you can release all the energy you have gathered. That is how stress acts on the body: the constant state of ‘get-set’ makes the body gather resources (food, in the form of calories, which are best stored as ‘fat’) for the anticipated race... but not actually use or spend them, leading to their accumulation. On a physiological level, stress causes a spike in the hormone cortisol, which promotes fat accumulation.
3. Rapid Weight Gain OR Loss
Sudden weight gain leads to fat being deposited and distributed unevenly, often leading to accumulation of FUPA. On the other hand, drastic weight loss leads to developing a pooch in your trunk area.
4. Weak Core
While we use our hands and legs everyday, we hardly ever use our trunk muscles to perform any kind of activity. Hence fat accumulation in this area is easy. Weak core muscles cannot use the energy that is being stored around. They need to be worked in order to use the fat being stored around them.
5. Dehydration and Bloating
The human body is designed in such a way that it holds more of what it doesn’t get enough of. So, dehydration or drinking less water leads to the body holding onto water... i.e. bloating. Another reason for bloating is a high-sodium diet. More the salt you consume, more the water your body will try to hold onto (in order to maintain the electrolyte balance of the body).
6. Poor Diet
The wrong kinds of food can cause a host of problems in the body, FUPA being one of them. Processed foods, refined foods, foods high in sugar, are the biggest contributors to FUPA. Apart from these, a diet rich in simple carbs and very few complex carbs and fibre will also lead to accumulation of FUPA.
Health Risks Associated with FUPA
A lot of women resign to having a belly pooch as an inevitable side-effect of pregnancy. However, letting FUPA accumulate and not doing anything to get rid of it can lead to further complications in the future. Here are some of the health risks of FUPA.
1. Cardiovascular Risk
The most significant risk that FUPA gives rise to is that of cardiovascular diseases. It has been shown that abdominal obesity (such as FUPA and excess trunk fat) is a more likely cause of cardiovascular diseases than overall obesity. This means people who are fat overall have a lesser chance of developing a heart condition than people who are fat in the abdominal area.
2. Diabetes
FUPA – a kind of ‘central obesity’ – predisposes you to type-2 diabetes. This is because the abdominal adipose tissue is hormonally more active than adipose tissue found in any other region of the body. It releases hormones that affect glucose tolerance negatively, increasing your chances of developing type-2 diabetes.
3. Dyslipidemia
Dyslipidemia refers to an abnormal lipid profile. Typically, most dyslipidemia cases are those of hyperlipidemia (too many lipids in the blood) rather than hypolipidemia (fewer lipids in the blood). An elevated level of blood lipids, in turn, can increase your risk of atherosclerosis – a condition in which the inner walls of arteries get deposited with excess fat, thereby restricting blood flow. If not treated in a timely manner, it can further increase your chances of a stroke.
4. Sleep Apnea
Sleep apnea refers to the condition where, in a supine position (i.e. when you are lying down on your back), a person is unable to breathe freely, in an unrestricted manner. While sleep apnea sounds like the person maybe snoring, there is no constant set rhythm to the perceived ‘snoring’, with people not breathing for a couple to a few seconds, and then jump-starting breathing with a loud sound. FUPA greatly increases your chances of sleep apnea.
5. High Blood Pressure
Of several things that can lead to high blood pressure, FUPA is perhaps the most common in today’s day and age, thanks to our largely sedentary lives that contribute to FUPA (whether in men or women). Pregnancy only adds to the likelihood of developing FUPA (and thereby high blood pressure) for women.
6. Decreased Libido
Obesity is linked to a decrease in a person’s libido. This is partly due to the physical aspect of FUPA (wherein the hanging belly-fat prevents or greatly inhibits a pleasurable sexual experience), but also due to the mental or emotional aspect (where one may be severely negatively affected by one’s physical form, thereby losing interest in sex).
How to Lose FUPA with the Right Foods
The right kinds of food can help you mobilise fat from stubborn areas of the body. Here are some fats that help you mobilise and lose FUPA.
The Right Carbs
While refined and white carbohydrates – like refined flour, bread, pasta, rice, etc. – are bad for FUPA, complex brown carbs are good. So you don’t have to completely give up carbohydrates, just pick the right ones, like:
Oatmeal
Quinoa
Sweet potatoes
Barley
Amaranth
The Right Fats
Believe it or not, fats mobilise fats! So you need to eat the good fats in order to make stubborn fat like FUPA go from your body. Consider including the following foods that are rich in polyunsaturated fatty acids (PUFA) and omega-3 fatty acids:
Almonds
Walnuts
Pistachios
Flaxseeds
Fish and seafood
Vitamin C-Rich Foods
Vitamin C is a great stress-reliever... which is why orange extracts find their way into most of our beauty products! Your top 5 sources of vitamin C include:
Oranges
Bell-peppers
Lemons
Strawberries
Papaya
Yoghurt is Yo’ Best Friend
Yoghurt – especially non-sweetened Greek Yoghurt – is great to kill FUPA for three reasons:
It is rich in calcium, which is known to aid in the breakdown of fat.
It is rich in arginine, an amino acid that helps strengthen and tone core muscles.
It has a good amount of protein, which helps build muscle and keep you satiated longer.
Spice it Up!
Spices are known to help burn fat. Two spices that you can consider adding to your diet (either while cooking food, or as a topping for cooked food, salads, beverages, etc.) are:
Cinnamon: it can go great as a drizzle in your morning cup of coffee, or on smoothies, or even to give your salad a dash of sweetness. Cinnamon regulates blood sugar and helps flatten out FUPA.
Chilli: be it red chilli powder or green chillis, both contain an ingredient called capsaicin, which acts of getting rid of FUPA by giving your metabolism a boost.
What’s Your Poison?
Everybody likes to enjoy their drink once in a while, and a lot of ladies love their cocktails! But cocktails come with a lot of unwanted calories which you can significantly cut down on by choosing simpler mixers. The good news is – red wine is good! Resveratrol, found in red wine, actually helps burn FUPA.
3 Best Exercises to Lose FUPA
Any kind of exercise will bring about two definite and positive changes in your body: it will kill your stress and will boost your energy levels! As mentioned earlier, stress is a big contributor to FUPA, so exercise will definitely help you combat stress and get rid of FUPA.
However, the following 3 targetted exercises will especially help move FUPA fast!
1. HIIT – High-Intensity Interval Training
HIIT refers to a common pattern of workout where you perform exercises in bursts: 1 high-intensity exercise of short duration, followed by a short rest period, or 1 low-intensity exercise of longer duration. The idea is to give your body bursts of activity, in order to kick-start your metabolism, and speed up weight loss. The best HIIT Workout for FUPA is the treadmill routine: 4 minutes jog, and 1-minute fast run. You can do 4 rounds of this.
2. Core Strengthening Exercises
Core strengthening exercises are nothing but those exercises which work your abs. Planks, crunches, push-ups, leg-raises, mountain climbers, are all included in this category. It would be best to start with just 5 or 10 repetitions (reps) of each exercise, and then increase the count by 3-5 every day (or every alternate day). The challenge is to do this continuously for a month, without missing a single day, and to increase your reps in a steady pattern!
3. Yoga
Yoga will not only improve muscle tone and cut down the stress, it will also act to keep FUPA away once you have lost it! Some of the best yoga poses for FUPA include:
Boat pose (Paripurna Naavasana)
Bridge pose (Setu Bandha Sarvangasana)
Crane Pose (Bakasana)
Extended Puppy pose (Uttana Shishosana)
Get Rid of FUPA With Surgery After Pregnancy, Weight Loss or C-Section
In some cases, you might be tempted to consider surgery as an option to get rid of FUPA. We strongly advise you consult your gynaecologist, doctor, and a good specialist before you take this decision. It is important to evaluate your specific case (not just the general considerations of the procedure) before you decide to go in for this.
Once you make up your mind, here are some options you have:
Liposuction
Liposuction is the least invasive option you have for surgically removing FUPA. However, it is important to remember that it works best to remove fat from ‘pockets’ of the body, and not for overall fat reduction. Also remember that liposuction will get rid of only fat, and not loose skin.
Monsplasty
Mosplasty not only removes FUPA but also tightens the underlying muscles of the region. This is like getting a ‘facelift’ but for your pubic area, hence also called ‘pubic lift’. However, more often than not, you might have to combine this with another surgical procedure like getting a tummy tuck or a labiaplasty for best results.
Abdominoplasty
Abdominoplasty is more popular by its common name – the tummy tuck. Undergoing abdominoplasty to get rid of FUPA is the most invasive and lengthy way to get rid of FUPA – and also most expensive.
FUPA can either be treated as ‘just another permanent side-effect of pregnancy’, or it can be treated the right way – through proper diet, exercise, and conscious health and lifestyle choices. One approach makes it a permanent problem, the other will lead you to a permanent solution... the choice is yours! Read more
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Consumption of Fenugreek (Methi) Seeds During Pregnancy
Fenugreek is a herb that is native to Asia and the Mediterranean region. Fenugreek seeds are used for cooking and medicinal purposes. Fenugreek seeds have a strong flavour and when consumed in raw form they taste bitter. Fenugreek seeds offer various health benefits. They are consumed to treat digestive and respiratory issues and to strengthen the digestive system. These seeds are also known to treat menstrual problems and induce labour. But is it really beneficial to consume these seeds during pregnancy?
Benefits of Consuming Fenugreek Seeds During Pregnancy
Fenugreek is rich in anti-inflammatory properties and it offers essential minerals and vitamins that are required during pregnancy. Here are some of the benefits of consuming fenugreek seeds during pregnancy.
Consuming fenugreek seeds during pregnancy acts as a natural combatant for gestational diabetes.
Breast enlargement is a common occurrence during pregnancy that causes breast tenderness and can be painful. However, consuming fenugreek seeds can help alleviate pain. Soak a few seeds overnight in water, strain the liquid in the morning and drink.
Fenugreek has been shown to relieve the pain associated with labour and it also helps lessen the duration of the contractions.
Consuming fenugreek during pregnancy can also help stabilise sugar levels.
Fenugreek is a natural fortifier for the immune system as well as a system cleanser. Eating fenugreek can help combat heart disease, lung disorder, influenza, and various allergies.
How Much Fenugreek Seeds Should You Eat During Pregnancy?
There are numerous ways in which fenugreek can help your body when you are pregnant, but you must include them in your diet in small to medium quantities. Fenugreek seeds, when consumed in moderation can greatly boost your immune system. It can help prevent allergies and keep you healthy. It is also a great ingredient to help boost your metabolic rate. Here is how you can them in your diet.
You can soak a teaspoon of the seeds in a glass of water overnight, strain and drink the water in the morning. Alternatively, you can incorporate the same amount in your meals. Another option is to swallow the seeds with water as is. The effect of the seeds will be slower in this case. You must also remember that you can use fenugreek leaves in your diet. A fistful of clean leaves a day is the daily recommended amount you can consume.
Tips to Include Fenugreek in Your Pregnancy Diet
Here are some ways in which you can include fenugreek or fenugreek seeds in your pregnancy diet.
While preparing food, particularly Indian food, be sure to add half a teaspoon of this spice in the tadka. This way your food becomes more flavourful while also giving you the benefits.
You can make curry with fenugreek leaves or methi. However, don’t make the food spicy. You can add some jaggery to tone down the bitterness.
Use the leaves along with spinach or lettuce to make a serving of salad every day. This will keep your stomach light and refreshed.
Soak a handful of fenugreek seeds in some water overnight, swallow the seeds, and drink the water for a hydrating and nutritionally rich start to the day.
Blend a handful of strawberries, chia seeds, honey, yoghurt, and fenugreek seeds for a power smoothie to help keep you energized throughout the day.
Soak the seeds in water overnight and use the water as a base for a soup the next day. Powder the soaked seeds and the powder to the broth, add veggies, meat, and seasoning and let it simmer. This can be a light dinner with an extremely high nutritional value.
Powder some fenugreek seeds and add the powder to a glass of watermelon juice. Squeeze some lime into it to make a mocktail that tasty and energizing.
Mix flax seeds, fenugreek seeds, coriander powder, and turmeric in a glass of warm milk and drink. This can provide relief from a sore throat and cold.
Grate some ginger and garlic, mix it with a couple of teaspoons of water, put it on a simmer and mix till it reaches a paste-like consistency, add fenugreek seeds, chives, rosemary and thyme to create a unique barbeque marinade for meat or fish.
Side Effects of Consuming Fenugreek Seeds During Pregnancy
While consuming fenugreek can be beneficial for your health during pregnancy, it can pose certain risks to your health too. Some of the side effects that may arise on the consumption of fenugreek during pregnancy are stated below.
Fenugreek seeds are known to induce contractions, hence it is advised to consume the during labour. So it is best that you avoid eating them before the 37th week as it could lead to premature labour.
Sometimes, consuming fenugreek seeds can also cause bloating, gas, diarrhoea, and nausea.
Some people are naturally allergic to fenugreek. If you are one of them then you might experience reactions like swelling, nasal congestion, and wheezing.
Consumption of fenugreek seeds in excess amounts can lead to birth defects in the baby.
Consuming fenugreek seeds just before labour may cause the baby to have unusual body odour. However, this odour does not have any long-term effects on the baby’s health.
Eating fenugreek seeds during pregnancy can be beneficial for your health but it can even lead to certain complications, especially if you eat them before the 37th week of your pregnancy. Consuming the seeds or leaves in small quantities can strengthen your immune system and help prevent allergies, but you should consult your doctor before adding fenugreek seeds or leaves to your diet. If your doctor gives a go-ahead, you can add it to your diet but you must watch out for any signs of allergy. In case of an allergic reaction, contact your doctor right away. Consult a dietician for a better idea of how much fenugreek you may require on a regular basis and what nutritional requirements your body has in particular.
Also Read: Sesame Seeds In Pregnancy: Nutrition Facts, Health Benefits & More Read more
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Rhinitis During Pregnancy - Causes, Symptoms, and Home Remedies
Pregnancy is a joyful and miraculous experience for most people, but it does come with a few discomforts and a need to make some lifestyle changes. It is important to keep good health during this time, as a woman’s changing body can become prone to certain ailments.
If you have a stuffy nose during pregnancy, chances are you may have pregnancy rhinitis. While some pregnancy-related conditions are well known to most people, pregnancy rhinitis is not one of them.
Here we will discuss this less-known pregnancy condition, what causes it, its symptoms, and what home remedies have been known to bring relief.
What Is Pregnancy Rhinitis?
During pregnancy, the blocked nose that makes it hard to sleep sometimes could be Pregnancy Rhinitis, though it may appear to be the common cold or the flu. There are times when it is even mistaken for conditions related to the sinus, as well as an allergic reaction.
However, upon further inspection, the condition does not seem to be linked to any virus or medical condition. The condition is linked instead to the changing hormones that take place during pregnancy. This is what Pregnancy Rhinitis essentially is.
Though quite a few women suffer from this condition during pregnancy, it is hardly ever a serious medical problem other than to cause a lot of discomfort and sleepless nights. Many women manage to find relief through the use of home remedies.
Causes of Rhinitis in Pregnancy
A woman's body undergoes many changes during pregnancy to make room for and prepare to grow a baby. This includes changes in hormones, something that can cause unwanted side effects. Pregnancy Rhinitis is believed to be primarily caused due to changes in the hormones of an expecting mother. However, there may be other factors that may contribute to its occurrence. Here are some of the believed causes for pregnancy rhinitis:
1. Allergies
Allergic reactions tend to have the same symptoms as rhinitis during pregnancy. For pregnant women, their rhinitis may be triggered for similar reasons, such as seasonal allergies or allergies to something in particular.
2. Blood Volume
Along with a change in hormones, the volume of blood in pregnant women may increase. These changes in the body during pregnancy may trigger a bout of pregnancy rhinitis.
3. Smoking
Smoking is another potential cause for triggering pregnancy rhinitis. This is not only possible if a pregnant woman smokes, but being exposed to secondhand smoke or coming into regular contact with someone who smokes may also be contributing factors.
Symptoms of Pregnancy Rhinitis
Our bodies work in unique ways. Not every woman will experience pregnancy rhinitis the same way, nor will everyone suffer from the same symptoms. One early sign of pregnancy rhinitis is a “stuffy” feeling that could start congestion. Despite this, there are some symptoms that most women with pregnancy rhinitis experience. They are as follows:
Stuffy or congested nose
Runny or itchy nose
Sneezing and coughing
Post-nasal drip, where excess amounts of mucus drip down the back of the throat
An increased feeling of pressure in the ears and may sometimes cause ear infections
Disturbed sleep
A compromised sense of smell
Worsening of the symptoms of asthma
Triggered sinusitis and headaches
Eyes that are swollen, watery or itchy
How to Diagnose Rhinitis When Pregnant?
Before your doctor can inform you on whether or not you are suffering from pregnancy rhinitis, you will need to be checked for other potential causes of the symptoms. Only once every other possible cause is ruled out may your doctor be able to diagnose you with pregnancy rhinitis safely. Your doctor will have a few questions and consent to have a few tests run, required to rule out anything like a viral or bacterial infection, sinusitis, and even allergies.
If you have never been tested for allergies before, your doctor may refer you to someone specializing in allergies. This will ensure a proper result and aid in ruling out, or identifying, allergies as the cause of your symptoms. Once your doctor can diagnose your condition, you will move forward to safe ways of getting treatment.
Treatment for Pregnancy Rhinitis
Pregnancy Rhinitis generally goes away on its own after running its course. However, if the symptoms are proving to be too difficult to manage, some treatments may be available to help in relieving the symptoms of pregnancy rhinitis. Here are some of the treatments that may be used to treat pregnancy rhinitis after consulting with your doctor:
1. Nasal Strips
Some nasal strips work very well in keeping the nasal passage open, making breathing a bit easier. This proves especially helpful if breathing is difficult at night, preventing you from getting a good night’s sleep.
2. Saline Irrigation
Using saline irrigation does not have any known side effects and can clean out the nasal passage. Just put the solution into one nostril, and it will drain out the other one.
3. Medical Treatment
The doctor may prescribe certain types of medication based on the severity of your condition. One of the safe options that doctors may prescribe is the use of antihistamines. This may help in drying up the mucus in the nasal passageways.
Home Remedies for Rhinitis While Pregnant
Some safe ways will help you find more comfort, and these can be done right at home. Consult the doctor about any home remedy that you are not sure of. Some home remedies that will help treat some of the symptoms of pregnancy rhinitis:
1. Ginger Tea
Have a cup of hot ginger tea to help fight the symptoms of pregnancy rhinitis. Ginger is good for bringing relief as it contains anti-inflammatory properties. A cup made with fresh ginger and honey first thing in the morning can work wonders.
2. Consume More Vitamins
Consuming vitamin C will help with lessening nose bleeds.
3. Steam Inhalation
Steam inhalation is well known for being able to help relieve congestion in the nasal passage. Just remember to cover your head with a towel to allow the steam to travel to you and prevent it from spreading out across the room. This will help to improve the effectiveness of the treatment.
4. Blow Your Nose
Place a finger on one of your and hold it closed. Then, blow gently out of the other one. This will help clear the nostril passages one at a time by forcing all the air out only through one side. Do the same for the other nostril.
5. Exercise
Making it a habit to do a few light exercises every day can help clear out the passages. Cardiovascular exercises are great if you want to improve the flow of air and get better sleep. Exercising outside may cause more irritation if the air is not clean or allergic to something like pollen.
6. Elevate Your Head
Instead of sleeping flat, raise your pillows to raise the upper torso and head halfway to a seated position. This will help you to breathe better and help you to get better sleep.
7. DIY Nasal Lavage
You can safely make your nasal lavage at home. All you need is a tablespoon each of baking soda and salt, as well as one pint of sterile water. Once you have mixed everything well together, you need to pour a little onto the palm of your hand and then sniff it into each of your nostrils in turn. Do this until you feel a sense of relief. You can repeat this three times a day, but make sure that you make a fresh batch each time you do it. Throw out any remaining product after each use.
8. Keep Hydrated
Keep yourself hydrated well, either by drinking water or by consuming enough citric juice per day. This also means giving up caffeine as it can dehydrate the body. By keeping yourself well hydrated, you will help your body reduce any congestion you may have.
9. Use a Humidifier
Humidifiers and vaporizers may help increase the moisture level in your room. Just use them at night while sleeping, and you may find yourself sleeping better. Just make sure to keep your humidifier clean and change the water every day. This helps to prevent unwanted bacterial growth that could worsen your problems.
10. Acupressure
By applying the right amount of pressure at certain points, you may be able to reduce congestion and mucus. Gently press the bridge of your nose and around your eye sockets for about five minutes. It is best to use your thumbs for this.
11. Consume Horseradish Concoction
You can make your concoction using the healing horseradish. Horseradish is believed to be able to improve your immunity and help to fight against bacteria. Finely chop some apples and horseradish, and then mix the two with a bit of sugar. Two tablespoons a day of this will be able to provide relief from congested or stuffed noses.
12. Avoid Irritants
Things such as strong-smelling agents, paints, alcohol, and smoke can irritate the respiratory system, causing your condition to worsen. Avoid them, and the healing process will be improved.
How Long Does Pregnancy Rhinitis Last?
Pregnancy rhinitis does not have a fixed time limit. Everyone experiences it differently, and while some may experience it throughout pregnancy, others may find that it comes and goes throughout. Generally, it is said to last for about six weeks or more.
When it comes to the condition, pregnancy rhinitis third trimester may be the most uncomfortable time as some expecting mothers may experience a worsening of their condition as their pregnancy progresses. Pregnancy rhinitis will always clear up around two weeks after you have given birth.
When to Contact a Doctor and What to Expect?
If you experience aggravated symptoms or cannot find relief with any of your home remedies, it may be time to seek help from your doctor. Your doctor will help you find a way to get relief from the symptoms you are experiencing based on your condition.
Those who find that their symptoms continue even after two weeks post-delivery should also contact their doctor. As the symptoms compromise the respiratory system, you may find yourself developing other problems, such as snoring or the inability to sleep due to a stuffy nose. In such instances, it is best to seek help from your doctor.
At the hospital, you may be required to run some tests to help your doctor assess your condition much better. If you have already taken medication to help with your condition, it is best to let your doctor know. However, it is best to avoid taking any medication without consulting your doctor, as not all medications are safe for your unborn child.
Your doctor will also give you a thorough examination, where you will have your airways, ears, nose, and throat examined. Some of the tests you may find yourself required to take to rule out any underlying conditions are cultures of the throat and sputum, skin and blood tests to check for any allergies, and an X-Ray of the chest and sinuses.
Depending on what your doctor finds about your condition, you will be prescribed the appropriate medication.
Though having a stuffed nose is something that we have all experienced many times in our lives, it is best to consult with your doctor before taking any medication. This includes medication that you may have taken to help with your condition before. Not all medication is safe for pregnant women as it can harm your baby, especially when experiencing rhinitis in early pregnancy.
A good way to avoid triggering pregnancy rhinitis and help heal faster is to make sure to eat well, stay hydrated, and set aside some time every day to do a little exercising. If you have never exercised before or are not sure what you can do while pregnant, you can always ask your doctor to help you come up with an exercise routine or find an expert to help.
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Postnatal Infections - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment
While a certain amount of bleeding and fatigue is to be expected after delivery, there are some conditions that require more intense medical attention. No matter how much care you may try to take, sometimes catching an infection is inevitable. There are many open wounds in the uterus and also open lacerations around the vaginal area and the cervix after delivery. This makes the body weaker and more prone to catching infections.
What are Postpartum Infections?
Infections that are caused by delivery, vaginal or caesarean, and even during breastfeeding are called postpartum infections. This happens when bacteria infect the uterus and surrounding areas after a woman gives birth. Postpartum infections are also called puerperal infections.
How Common are They?
Today, about two percent of women who undergo normal vaginal deliveries develop postpartum infections. This rate increases to about ten percent in the case of difficult deliveries and to fifty percent in the case of caesarean delivery if preventative antibiotics are not given.
Who is Most at Risk of Getting Postpartum Infections?
Women who have had caesarean deliveries, premature membrane ruptures, prolonged use of internal foetal monitoring and those suffering from anaemia are prone to getting these infections.
Causes of Post Delivery Infections?
The small cut made at the vaginal opening in order to make it easier for the baby’s head to come out is called an episiotomy. If this wound gets infected, it can lead to a postpartum infection.
When labour is prolonged, and repeated vaginal inspections take place in unsanitary conditions, postpartum infections may occur.
If the placenta is not expelled and remains in the uterus even up to thirty minutes after delivery, the placenta will have to be removed manually. This manual removal of the placenta can cause postpartum infections.
Infections of other pelvic organs like the ovaries can cause postpartum infections.
Sometimes infections can occur from infected vaginal sanitary pads.
Symptoms of Puerperal Infection
Postpartum infection symptoms do not always appear when the mother is in the hospital. They may start to show up anytime within ten days after delivery. Some of the signs of postpartum infection are as follows:
Fever
Foul smelling discharge
Tenderness and pain in the infected area
Excessive bleeding
Problems in passing urine or stool
Most Common Types of Infections after Delivery
Some of the most common postpartum infections are as follows:
Postpartum Haemorrhage: This happens when the uterus is unable to contract the way it should after the placenta has been delivered or if there are any lacerations in the uterus, vagina or cervix.
Uterine Infection: Any infection that may be present in the amniotic sac at the time of delivery can lead to uterine infection. Uterine infection can also be caused when pieces of the placenta are stuck inside the uterus.
Caesarean Wound Infection: Infections in the caesarean wound can develop a few days after delivery. If you experience any redness, swollen skin or discharge, get yourself checked as soon as possible.
Perineal Pain: The area between the rectum and vagina is known as the perineum. It is not uncommon to experience pain in this area, but if the tissues tore or stretched during delivery, then you will experience a feeling of swelling or soreness in this area.
Heavy Vaginal Discharge: Women experience heavy vaginal discharge for the first few weeks after delivery. This discharge consists of all the blood and placenta remains. At first, it will be bloody with clots in it, but it will start to turn pink and then eventually white until it stops altogether. If after two weeks the discharge is still bloody and foul smelling, alert your doctor.
Diagnosis
Proper diagnosis is based on the results of some physical examinations. Sometimes a diagnosis can be made when women have a fever and no other symptom. Usually, urine samples are taken to be cultured and then checked for bacteria that may be causing the problem.
Why You Should Be Concerned About Infection after Childbirth
If infections go undetected or untreated they can lead to blood clots, infections in the kidneys, which cause kidney problems and infections in the bloodstream can sometimes cause sepsis. Most often though, the infections can be treated, and the biggest problem lies with it taking time away from bonding and caring for your baby. Seek medical help if you have even the slightest feeling that something is not right.
Management and Treatment for Post-Natal Infections
The treatments for postpartum infections are:
General Treatment:
Bed rest, drinking a lot of fluids, maintaining a balanced diet, and medicines. If in the case of breast infections that are serious, the mother may pass it along to the newborn and so it is better that she does not breastfeed her baby. A breast pump can be utilised to express the milk to prevent breast engorgement or breast abscess.
2. Local Treatment:
In the case of episiotomies, the stitches will need to be removed so that the puss can be drained.
Sometimes there are some tissues that have been retained in the uterus causing a uterus infection after birth. These should be removed very gently. If the uterus is too fragile, the mother should be put on antibiotics for a couple of days before removal is attempted.
Clean vaginal pads must be used and changed regularly.
Educate yourself on the proper care of wounds after delivery as taking care of this will reduce the chances of developing any kind of infection. Make sure to wash your hands before handling your wounds and always wipe from front to back when needed. In order to manage your postpartum bleeding, do not use tampons as these are meant to be inserted into the vagina and if they are contaminated, they will carry infections directly inside. Always remember to see your doctor at the first sign of fever and keep them informed of any discomfort you may be feeling. This way you can be sure of whether you are experiencing normal postpartum pains, or if the case is more serious. Read more
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Imperfect Perfections : Parenthood is the only job which does not require any formal training and I must say that it should not be equated to a job either. There is no such term as Perfect Parenting . Every parenting is unique.
As a new mom I am used to reading a lot of stuff for myself , my kid and perfect parenting required for our baby. Parenthood is the only job which doesnt require any formal training and I must say that it should not be equated to a job either. Any parent should be aware that kids are not completely developed in their relationship skills and hence one needs to be very careful and true to develop an unique and special bond with the kid.Going to be a working mother , I was usually being told that it is a nightmare to raise a kid with working and i wont say that its not hectic , it is , it surely is ! But i want to say that raising a kid should not seem like a burden to parents. It is a journey that should be enjoyed by both the mother and father of the child. It completely depends on our midset on how to manage the household and working hours. And trust me folks , if you plan little things accordingly you will get to balance both your tasks beautifully .Also one should be careful on how we react in front of our kids. They are attached in a very unique way with us.So if we act nervous or sad they will gie a similar response in return and if you act joyfully they are ound to give a happy reaction in return.I would like to share a recent example with you guys regarding it. Unfortunately, my grandpa expired few days ago(in my homwtown) and i got a call from home informing me the same. Within seconds a was in tears and i was shocked when my playing and giggling baby stopped and was looking at me without a smile on his face. My husband gathered me and asked to stay strong and i had to put on a smiling face for our baby. This incident has taught me that there is indeed an attachment between us and our kid which we should respect a lot .They are the strength which my mum used to tell me that help us in our tough time.I hope that whoever reads this just be inspired, learning and keep growing as a parent. Read more
Sunita Mahato has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 m old child
6 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts How to increase quantity of milk production?
Sunita Mahato
Mom of 3 children
6 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
6 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
5 hours ago
A. at present weight no exercise is other than moderate walking. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. I am in my 8th month of pregnancy (last week), and for some reason I am continously facing lot of fatigue. I am feeling deprived of energy and I don't have any energy to do anything. resting isn't Helping in any way and taking small walks isn't too. what can be the possible reason and how to overcome this.
Read moreDr Ghouse
Paediatrician
5 hours ago
A. yes that can be both physical and psychological problems during pregnancy ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Sai Prasanthi R L has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
3 hours ago
Q. hi,
pls advice , after hcg tigger injection can we do intercourse to conceive and till when we can do ...trying to conceive
Sai Prasanthi R L
Mom of a 10 yr 2 m old boy
3 hours ago
A. Hello dear! We understand your eagerness and concern. It is advisable to check with your consulting doctor regarding this matter. Clarify your concerns and follow your doctor’s advice. Maintain a good personal hygiene routine and a healthy lifestyle
Charul Verma has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 yr 7 m old child
1 hour ago
Q. Hello my baby is 20 months old he swallowed a earpod bur he is normal he eat as well as drink please suggest???
Charul Verma
Nutritionist
46 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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