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Fast Heartbeat During Pregnancy
Be it physical, mental or emotional, your body goes through a lot of changes during pregnancy. One such change that might worry you is a change or rather increase in your heart rate. Heart palpitations (when you feel that your heart is racing or pounding) are usually harmless and happen because of cardiovascular changes. However, in many instances this seemingly common change can indicate a problem in the heart or other parts of the body, more so if it is sudden. A sudden increase in the heart rate during pregnancy should not be taken lightly. Read on to know more about it.
Is It Normal to Have a High Heart Rate During Pregnancy?
The normal heart rate of a healthy person is between 60 and 80 per minute. However, during pregnancy, it is quite common for this rate to go up to 100. An increased heart rate is called tachycardia and is a common occurrence during pregnancy.
During pregnancy, your body constantly works hard to provide nourishment to your growing baby. As your pregnancy progresses, the amount of blood required by your baby increases and to suffice this requirement, your heart also beats faster to pump more blood into the system.
Causes of High Pulse Rate During Pregnancy
There are lot of factors that can lead to heart palpitations during pregnancy. These are as follows:
Anxiety: It is normal for a pregnant woman to worry about her baby’s health. But if you tend to worry a lot or get anxious, it will affect your health. Stress and anxiety during pregnancy can increase your heart rate.
A change in the size of the uterus: As your pregnancy progresses, the uterus will increase in size to accommodate the growing baby. As a result your heart will pump more blood to support the uterus. In fact, towards the end of your pregnancy, about 20% of your blood gets supplied to the uterus. This means extra work for your heart which will only adds pressure on it.
Changes in the breasts: During and after pregnancy, your mammary glands will prepare the body for breastfeeding. When the breast tissues enlarge and breasts increase in size, the blood flow to the mammary glands will increase. This means, your heart will pump more blood than usual, which might make it pound even more.
Changes in the nutrient levels: Complications of the thyroid or a drop in iron levels can also increase the heart rate.
Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes and weight gain can cause tachycardia in early pregnancy.
Medication: If you take cold or allergy medicines containing pseudoephedrine during pregnancy, your heart rate might increase. This increase is a sign of your body reacting negatively to medicines.
Lifestyle factors: Smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol, or consuming foods or drinks high in caffeine can increase your heart rate too.
Some Other Serious Causes of Heart Palpitations
Coronary heart disease
Preeclampsia
Underlying heart damage
Heart damage from previous pregnancy
Symptoms of Heart Palpitations During Pregnancy
You may experience the following symptoms if you have an increased heart rate during pregnnacy.
Shortness of breath even when you are sitting or lying down
Palpitations and skipped heart beats
Light-headedness with dizzy spells and even fainting spells
A persistent cough
If you experience any of these symptoms, it is best that you bring it to your doctor’s notice so that she can check whether these symptoms are normal or not.
Diagnosing Increased Heart Rate During Pregnancy
Your doctor will conduct a series of tests to ensure that both you and your baby are in the prime of health. He will also review your medical history. If you have experienced this problem before, you should inform your doctor about it. The doctor will determine the cause of increased heart rate through an EKG or ECG that measures changes in the blood flow and heart rate.
Basis the results, the doctor will most likely suggest you to follow a healthy diet and perform exercises. This will keep your weight in check and will also prevent additional pressure on the heart.
Elevated Heart Rate Trimester Wise
Cardiovascular functions serve a number of purposes during pregnancy. Apart from aiding the development of the foetus, they also impact on the mother’s physiological and metabolic functions. However, depending on the stage of pregnancy, your heart’s way of functioning also varies.
1. First Trimester
During the first trimester, your heart rate can increase by 15 to 20 beats per minute. The increase in heart rate during this trimester is usually caused by an increase in hormone levels, specifically an increase in progesterone and oestrogen. This is to signal your heart that it must provide more blood for the developing foetus.
2. Second Trimester
In this phase, your body will see a general relaxation of the smooth muscles along with dilation of the arteries to accommodate the increase in blood volume. These changes will ensure that your blood pressure stays normal while increasing your heart rate. During the fourth month, your heart will pump 30% to 50% more blood than usual.
3. Third Trimester
During the last trimester, your heart will not be at its peak of pumping blood. It will pump 40% to 90% more blood than it did in your pre-pregnancy days. This is to ensure that the rapidly growing foetus receives the oxygen and all the nutrients it requires. It also prepares your body for labour during which your heart rate will spike due to the contractions and pain.
Can an Increase in the Heart Rate Affect Your Pregnancy?
Heart palpitations or an increase in heart rate during pregnancy is usually a sign of a healthy pregnancy. This means that your body is working hard to ensure that your baby gets the oxygen and essential nutrients to develop healthily.
If your heart beats faster but it not accompanied with other serious symptoms, there is nothing to worry about. You must remember that this is a normal physiological response of your body.
How to Deal With an Increased Heart Rate While Pregnant
Although increased heart is usually normal, it is suggested that you make certain changes in your lifestyle for your and your baby’s good health. If an increase in your heart rate is because of some serious problem, your doctor will prescribe the course of treatment and suggest you to take precautions.
1. Treatment
While there are many drugs that help with tachycardia, it is best not to use them while pregnant as some of these medicines could hamper with your baby’s development. Before taking any medicines, you should consult a doctor.
2. Remedies You Can Try at Home
Staying calm is one of the best things you can do if you are experiencing heart palpitations during pregnancy. Drinking moderate amounts of chamomile tea or aromatherapy with lavender can also calm you down.
Make sure that you get enough sleep every day and that your sleep patterns remain undisturbed. Practising yoga and meditation can also calm you down but be sure to clarify with your doctor before trying anything.
Warning Signs
If you experience a sudden increase in heart rate during pregnancy which is also accompanied by some other symptoms mentioned above, it could be a sign of a serious problem, perhaps a heart condition that you were unaware of previously. Make sure that you seek immediate medical help if you experience one or more symptoms along with heart palpitations.
An increase in heart rate during pregnancy is common and happens because of the physiological changes your body goes through. Ensure that you get enough rest and do not stress during this time. Also, have an honest and open conversation with your doctor if you have any fear about your pregnancy.
Also Read: Listening to Foetal Heartbeat during Pregnancy Read more
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When You're Bed Shopping For Your Toddler
Now that your baby is set to leave the crib behind, you have to get your nursery toddler-ready! From safety notes to recommendations for higher comfort, these tips will add more value to your investment toward the perfect bed.
Congratulations! Your teeny-tiny baby is now big and active enough to transition to a bigger bed. These options will guide you forward in your quest for the right bed, both in terms of safety and aesthetic value.
How to Buy a Toddler Bed without Getting Confused!
Pick a Bed the Size of the Crib Mattress
While buying a bed for toddlers, it's important to be vigilant about the size of the bed and make sure it meets certain safety metrics too. Choose a bed that is both cosy and snug, and suits the size of the existing crib mattress. That way, you need not invest in a larger mattress or a new twin-sized one yet. This is one of the top tips to buy a bed for your baby as it combines cost-cutting with functionality!
Ensure that the Bed Has Safety Rails
When it comes to toddler bed safety, it's essential to buy a frame that has built-in rails or high sides for keeping your child from rolling out or falling while asleep. These days, there are many attractive beds that have a striking appeal and are custom designed for additional safety. You'll be spoilt for choice.
Consider Choosing a Custom-shaped Bed
From beds that are designed to look like princess castles to those that appear like speed-demon cars and sleek space ships, there is no dearth of innovative pieces in nursery furniture stores. Get ready to be smitten, you'll love them all. As for the toddler mattress recommendation for your chosen bed, just make sure it is soft, cozy and bright!
Do You Have a Convertible Crib?
There are many cribs that are capable of converting themselves into a toddler bed whenever required. If you have one already, then you have just saved yourself some money. Dig out the conversion kit that you had purchased earlier on from the crib's manufacturer, use the bed rail and hardware, and you're good to go!
You May Choose to Avoid a Toddler Bed
Want to avoid toddler beds completely? Install rails around a regular bed frame or put inflatable pillow-style bolsters on the sides to ensure 100 percent safety for your toddler. You may also like to place a mattress on the floor, directly. Once the art of sleeping without a crib is mastered, the mattress can be moved onto a frame.
The bed you choose should take care of the factors of sturdy construction, a snug fit, weight limit, smooth edges, and a colourful appeal. Depending on the bells and whistles and quality of materials used, the price will obviously vary. So, be prepared to choose the best toddler bed in your budget. Read more
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Pregnancy Abortion Pills - How Does It Work, Side Effects & Risks
The world is constantly evolving; it wouldn't be wrong to say that the approach to women’s rights is at the forefront of change. This includes the right to choose whether to have a child or not, in other words, being pro-choice. Regardless of where you stand on the issue of abortion, it is extremely important to understand how they work, in specific, it is important to understand if abortion pills are safe, under what circumstances you use the pills and what your other options are.
What is an Abortion Pill?
One of the most common and quick ways is to successfully terminate a developing pregnancy is through prescription pills used for abortions like misoprostol and mifepristone. These pills are commonly confused with a form of contraception called the morning after pill, abortion pills are not a form of contraception and are different from the morning after pill which works to stop a pregnancy whereas the abortion pill is used to end the pregnancy after an ovary has successfully been fertilized.
When You Can Take Abortion Pill?
Pregnancy termination by a pill can only be done provided the embryo is not developed enough, this means that the latest you can wait when using the pill is between 60-70 days, it is, however, recommended that you use this pill as early as possible. The earliest you can take a pill safely to abort the pregnancy is the during the initial ten weeks of pregnancy and a week after your last menstrual cycle.
To terminate a pregnancy after 70 days, it is recommended that you consider a surgical abortion, this is because a pill may not be safe as the embryo is further along and this may complicate the abortion. To learn about the surgical option for abortion and what kind of abortion is right for you, please consult your personal medical specialist.
How Much Does the Pill Cost in India?
The costs of different types of abortion pills can vary extremely heavily; this depends on the brand of the pharmaceutical association. In India, an approximate range of these pills can range between 3000 to 5000 INR. The surgical procedure can cost a minimum of 30,000 INR and can go beyond 50,000 INR.
Ensure you get your prescription, however, as pregnancy pills are not considered over the counter meds, for a clearer picture for an abortion pill price, please consult your medical professional.
How to Take Abortion Pills?
The system for taking abortion pills is extremely strict; first doctors will ask you to sign waivers claiming that you are making this decision solely on your terms and the responsibility of the abortion is on you. Once this is done, the doctor will give you two pills that can take over the span of 3 days; both pills must be taken with the doctor present. Unlike most medications both these pills should not just be swallowed right away, insert the pill under your tongue and wait for it to naturally dissolve, this can take up to 30 minutes. Consult your doctor on the proper manner in which to consume this pill under their care.
In some cases, doctors may give you a vaginal pill; this is a pill that the doctor will insert into the vagina for the abortion, this works similarly to a rectal pill given to aid in curing constipation. During this time, you may face cramping and some bleeding, if this becomes excessive or lasts more than a day or two at most, consult your doctor immediately.
How does the Abortion Pill Work?
A step-by-step guide of the abortion pill procedure is listed below:
Sign the liability waiver.
The first pill – Mifepristone: This pill is responsible for the blocking of progesterone, this is a critical pregnancy hormone. This pill ensures the uterus doesn’t recognize the presence of this hormone and that causes the uterus lining to break down, this halts the progress of the pregnancy by causing the embryo to break down. This pill must be taken in the presence of a doctor
The second pill – Misoprostol: This pill causes the uterus to contract and push out the developing embryo, embryonic sac and the uterus lining, this means it pushes out the embryo of the developing baby that is terminated by mifepristone. This process can cause severe cramping and heavy bleeding for a day or two. If it continues after, then please visit your closest ER.
Visit the clinic: Once the pills have been consumed and a couple of weeks have passed visit your doctor, this is to ensure that the abortion was successful and that embryo is out of your system, if the embryo stays in your system post-abortion, it can cause infections that can result in permanent damage.
How Effective is the Medical Abortion Pill?
There is always a chance that the pill doesn’t work and you may have to opt for the surgical method, this, however, is not highly probable as the chances of the pill failing to terminate the developing embryo is a mere 4-6%.
How Long Does it Take for an Abortion to Complete?
Although the pills can be taken over a couple of days, the entire process of the abortion that culminates in a visit to the clinic where the doctor confirms the abortion can take up to 3 weeks. The first pill and second pill need to be taken a day or two apart, the abortion of the embryo from your system can take a few days, but doctors consider the process still incomplete as the exam required to confirm the abortion needs anywhere between 2-3 weeks after the second pill. Once the doctors clear you, the abortion is finally completed, and your body is safe from infection and other forms of danger.
What are the Side-Effects of the Pill?
Although there are numerous short-term side effects, the abortion pill side effects in the long term are rare, here are some side-effects you may experience.
Excessive bleeding
Dizziness
Fever
Infection
Intense Cramping
Mild Fever
Chills
What are Risks of the Pill?
When taking the abortion pill, like any type of medication there are a few risks involved, these are:
Allergic reactions to the medication
Heavy bleeding
Blood clots in the urine stream
Infection
A failed abortion
What Precautions do you Need to Take Before Taking the Abortion Pill?
Like a lot of medical procedures, there are some precautions to take before taking the abortion pill, these are:
Avoid alcohol 72 hours before taking the pill and for 3 weeks after taking the pill.
Avoid use of any unprescribed narcotics or drugs; these include medications that the doctors don’t clear.
Consult your doctor and have an emergency plan ready if needed.
Ensure you get all your tests done.
Ensure the pregnancy is in the window for the pill to work.
Make sure you understand all the risks involved with the abortion by talking to the doctors in detail.
Do not eat or drink anything when taking the pill and for 30 minutes after taking it.
Where can you Get the Abortion Pill?
You cannot get an abortion pill over the counter, this is because it is considered a prescription drug and can only be given to a consumer with a doctor’s prescription, furthermore, when considering how to get abortion pill, it is important to remember that legally you cannot take the pill unless a doctor is present, as such, in most cases the doctor may dispense the drug themselves to ensure control over the allocation of the drug so it may not be abused.
What about Getting Pregnant in the Future?
The risks of an abortion pill affecting future pregnancies are minimal but existent; it is recommended that you talk to a doctor to understand the complete risks of future pregnancies being affected by the pill.
Can the effects of the Pill be Reversed after it has been Taken?
Unfortunately, once the pill has been taken it is impossible to reverse its effects. Learn about all your available options before choosing abortion. Understand the risks and finality of abortion and consult your partner before choosing to terminate your child, after the abortion, it is highly recommended that you follow your doctor’s guidelines for post-abortion care. Do not miss your appointments for follow-ups and ensure you discuss your fears and address them before taking the pill. Remember, the decision to have an abortion is not a light one, it can cause trauma psychologically as well, please consult a therapist after the abortion to fight off depression.
Having an abortion should never be forced on a woman, remember, this is your body and your choice, always enforce your rights to either have or abort the child. Forcing an abortion or forcing a woman to keep the child against her will is illegal and a criminal offence, it is also extremely dangerous for their body.
Also Read:
Pregnancy After Abortion
Easy Ways of Natural Abortion
How To Terminate Pregnancy After 1 Month Read more
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5 Lessons From Your Parents To Pass On To Kids
We’re lucky and blessed to have been gifted with parents who taught us how to differentiate the right from wrong, taught good manners, and instilled in us a sense of self-respect. But it’s only when we ourselves become parents that we realise just how much the lessons learned from parents are worth. Just like how they’ve played a huge role in shaping our future, we try to do the same for our children.
Golden Nuggets of Common-Life-Lessons Taught by Parents
1. Be Respectful Towards Others
You can’t be a self-respecting woman if you don’t respect others. And you can’t expect your children to follow suit if you don’t show them how it’s done. Respect both for yourself and for others is perhaps one of the best life lessons your mother taught you. When you teach your children the same concept of respect, what else follows are qualities like obedience, kindness and self-control. Traits that help your children grow up into being well-rounded individuals. The best part? They’ll pass it on to their own children.
2. Good Manners Are Important
Manners are another good life lesson taught by parents. Not only do they raise the social IQ of an individual, but they also teach you to think about the welfare of others. Children learn from their parents and when they see you and your hubby putting the needs of others first and making an effort to maintain decorum, they’re a lot more likely to do the same. You can start by teaching your little ones to say ‘please’, ‘thank you’ and ‘sorry’. As they grow, you can introduce more complex concepts like to offer something to someone first, lending a hand, and empathising.
3. Be Patient and Make Decisions Wisely
One of the important things you may have learned from your dad is patience. Patience to understand situations and people, and make decisions wisely after careful thought. It’s a trait that’s extremely valuable and one you may want to pass on to your children. Teaching them not to make decisions out of anger and frustration and teaching them to evaluate their emotions and actions, will help them not just now but when they grow up into adults.
4. Losing and Winning is Part of Life
Growing up, it’s easy to take life’s losses badly and want to win at everything. But an important thing that you probably learned from your mother is that life’s a journey, filled with ups and downs. As a parent, it’s your turn to pass on this valuable lesson to your kid. This will teach your kid to take failure constructively, and success gracefully. When you lead by example, they’ll apply what you’ve taught them in their own lives.
5. Remain Truthful Always
An honest person doesn’t cheat, lie or defame others. As a parent, you want your children to grow up into people with integrity and dignity. Just as how your parents taught you that dishonesty doesn’t get you anywhere, you can do the same for your children. Lead by example so that they know that no matter how tough it can be to stick to the truth, it can bring them peace of mind.
There are many other common life lessons taught by parents and these are just a few. Remember when your mom and dad insisted that you offer that last cookie to your sister? Or when they insisted that you always greet someone with ‘good morning’? They were the first steps toward inculcating good life lessons in you. Now it’s time for you to do the same with your little darlings. Read more
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8 Magical Ways to Spend Time With Nature
Of the many options for outdoor activities for kids, nature offers the best answers. The same goes for moms! While swimming, running and skipping are highly physical activities, there are some simple things you can do that need no toil but leave you feeling fitter. And when you are fit and at peace, happiness comes to visit you on its own!
If there's one therapeutic thing that needs very little but rewards you in bulk, its is spending more time in nature with kids. Nature connects you to inner happiness, energizes you, lifts your spirits, keeps you healthy, and also helps you form a stronger bond with your children.
This year, indulge in outdoor activities for kids and spend lots of time with the beautiful world outside. We give you 8 splendid ways to spend time in and with the natural world.
Nature Activity Ideas for You
1. Sprout green fingers this year and make your garden your personal slice of heaven.
2. Get home a houseplant or two to purify the air and add a dash of green to your living area.
3. Go to the park with your kids more often and get your knees dirty playing in the sand and on the swings.
4. Build a bird-house in your yard, garden, balcony or alley-way and watch the little birdies snuggle up for warmth.
5. Eat lots of fruits and veggies that are farm-fresh and loaded with nutrition – even better if they are consumed out of a picnic basket!
6. Start practicing yoga every morning or early evening and feel the freshness seep into your soul.
7. Drink up! Make fresh fruit juices, smoothies and mock-tails and let the healthy, natural fruit sugars revitalize you.
8. Go out on a family vacation to the beach and let the sun and sand help you create glorious memories for a lifetime.
How do you plan to spend time with nature this year? Read more
Sarika gupta has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
15 hours ago
Q. Am craving to have a burger at McDonald’s. Am 15 week pregnant.
Is it safe to have
Sarika gupta
Mom of 2 children
3 hours ago
A. Hello there ma’am please do not worry about it too much and it is better to avoid this at this time and also if you want to eat burger then it is better to make it a home . Thanks and take care
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
14 hours ago
Q. It's my 12th week of pregnancy but last night I noticed some bleeding. So, my doctor prescribed Duphaston for 2 weeks. Is there anything to worry about? Please guide me.
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
14 hours ago
A. at present take rest and use medicines as advised by the doctor. 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 Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 3 months
8 hours ago
Q. I am 7 month pregnant with second baby I have severe abscess pain in armpit and buttocks pls tell me remedy for this ...Dr recommend antibiotics and ultracet pain tablet I have taken some doses of it but worried about the foetal development..does it hurt my baby
Read moreDr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
6 hours ago
A. You should have proper consultation with your treating doctor , as some examination or investigations may be needful, so that proper medications can be given And the treatment can be done very properly.
continue antibiotics regularly
Sai Prasanthi R L has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
2 hours ago
Q. Hello dr meri beti 6 days ki hai or use feed karwane ke bad nose or muh se milk bhar aa raha hai to aesa kyu kr rahi hai….me kya Dr ko dikhau kya???
Sai Prasanthi R L
Mom of a 10 yr 2 m old boy
2 hours ago
A. Hello dear parent! Keep your baby’s heart in a little elevated position while you’re breastfeeding. Burp your baby after every feed. Keep Babyhug tummy roll on handy. Consult your doctor for further assistance
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts how to reduce belly fat after pregnancy and skin was loose .two year passes but problem is persist.How can reduce it
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. For weight loss diet is good in intermittent fasting a good and but if your body is loose or you feel you really do tighten up your body then gymming or yoga both the things are going to be very good both the things are going to be helpful in tightening up your body and muscles at the same time but it is time consuming we just have to have patience
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. my baby is one month old and have cold symptoms. can I consume buttermilk?
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
22 mins ago
A. yes u can further you can contact with your doctor and you can get thhje the solution for this by discussing with him he will guide you for more details if required .
Its always better to take the guidance by the concernged person with the geniune advice ...
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