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Triple Marker Test During Pregnancy
A pregnant woman has to undergo a series of test to ensure that her pregnancy is progressing well and that her baby is developing just fine. If you are pregnant, your doctor might recommend several tests, including the triple marker test. This test will help her check for any genetic disorders in your baby. The triple marker test is known as the multiple marker test or multiple screening test. Read on to know more about this test and why is it important during pregnancy.
What Is a Triple Marker Test?
The triple marker screen test (also known as triple marker test) is a simple non-invasive blood test that is carried out between the 15th and 18th week of pregnancy. In this test, a sample of blood is taken and the levels of AFP, hCG, and estriol in the blood are measured to determine any abnormalities in the foetus.
Alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) - AFP is a protein produced by the developing foetus. High levels of this protein can indicate possible defects such as neural tube defects in the baby.
Human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) - hCG is a hormone produced by the placenta. High levels of this hormone can indicate a molar pregnancy or multiple pregnancies, whereas low levels of this hormone can indicate possible complications in the pregnancy like a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy.
Estriol - Estriol is an oestrogen produced by both the foetus and the placenta. Low levels of this hormone can indicate the risk of having a baby with Down syndrome.
The test is carried out to find out if the developing foetus is at the risk of having certain birth defects.
Why Is It Called a Screening Test?
It is imperative to understand what a screening test is in order to get comfortable while getting one done. A screening test is not a diagnosing tool. It compares a number of parameters like age, ethnicity, results from blood tests, etc., before providing an indication of a risk factor for certain abnormalities to be present. A screening test is not conclusive in terms of pinpointing at a specific problem, however, it simply helps obtain a directive if further tests need to be performed to ascertain a particular condition or a problem.
Reasons to Have a Triple Marker Test During Pregnancy
The triple test can provide important information on your pregnancy to your doctor. Here a few ways it helps:
By conducting this test early on in pregnancy, neural tube defects and other birth defects can be detected.
This test can help identify if the baby is at the risk of developing Down syndrome.
The triple test helps identify Trisomy 18 (Edward's Syndrome) during pregnancy.
The Trisomy test helps identify whether the woman is expecting two or more babies.
The test also detects other abnormalities that could help the doctor proceed further with a diagnosis.
When Should You Get the Triple Test?
As mentioned above, the triple test can be conducted between week 15 and week 20 of pregnancy. However, the most accurate result can be obtained between week 16 and week 18. The results of the test are usually available within two to four days.
How Should You Prepare for the Triple Marker Screen Test?
There is no preparation required for this test. You won't have any eating restrictions too before you go for this test. The side effects of this test are also negligible as it is a non-invasive test carried out by drawing a blood sample. It has minimal risk for the mother as well as the baby.
How Is the Test Performed?
The triple test procedure is the same as the procedures involved in any other blood test. Here is how your doctor or technician will perform this test.
Step 1: First, the technician will ask you to extend your arm and make a fist. This will help him find your vein.
Step 2: Then the doctor will place a strap around the arm and secure this point firmly.
Step 3: Next, the technician will clean the area with an antibacterial and antiseptic wipe.
Step 4: Then a needle will be inserted attached to a vial used for blood storage.
Step 5: Once the vial is full, the technician will pull out the vial, clean the area with another antiseptic and antibacterial swab.
Step 6: The blood sample will then be sent for evaluation to a lab where the biochemist will evaluate the sample.
Step 7: The results will then be put in software which will then be sent to the doctor. The doctor will then share the result with you.
During your subsequent appointment with the doctor, she will discuss the results and provide relevant information based on the results.
Note: The test does not have any side effects. Please discuss any concerns you have about the test, results, and action required based on the results with your primary healthcare physician.
What Triple Screen Test Looks For
The triple screen test is an indicative test that provides the doctors with an insight on what course to take if an abnormality is detected. This test measures the levels of hCG and determines whether or not the hCG and estriol levels are normal. This result is then supplemented with the mother’s age, weight, the gestation period of pregnancy and ethnicity to come to a diagnosis.
Precautions to Take During the Test
When undergoing this test, it is important that you share relevant information with your doctor. A change in information can alter the results of the test. Doctors take the required precautions while drawing blood to ensure that the foetus is not affected by any blood-borne pathogens by using new needles, antiseptic and antibacterial wipes, and if required putting you on the necessary antibiotics.
Benefits of the Triple Marker Screen Test
A triple marker test can indicate potential complications in pregnancy and the presence of multiple foetuses. Getting a triple marker screen test done is particularly beneficial for a woman who is above 35 years of age. The major benefit of this test is that it helps identify birth defects in the baby and helps a pregnant woman prepare for the same in advance. Some of these genetic disorders and abnormalities include:
Trisomy 18 or Edward's syndrome which is a chromosome abnormality.
Down syndrome, a condition in which extra genetic material from chromosome 21 is present in the cell.
Neural tube defects, which are basically birth defects of the brain, spine, and the spinal cord.
Side Effects and Risks to the Mother and the Baby
There are no known side effects of this test. As the amount of the blood drawn is very little; even the loss of blood is not significant enough to affect the mother’s health.
Interpretation of the Test Results
The results of the triple marker tests show the likelihood of a baby having a genetic disorder. The results, however, depend on the following factors:
Age of the pregnant woman
Ethnicity
Pregnant woman's weight
Whether she is expecting a single child or multiple babies
How far along she is in her pregnancy
Once you undergo this test, your OB/GYN will analyze your triple marker test report and let you know whether the results are negative or positive. Your doctor may also suggest more tests if the results of this test are false positive or she does not see a normal value for the triple marker test.
What Does a Negative Screen Mean?
A negative screen result probably means that your foetus is at the low risk of developing birth defects such as neural tube defects, Down syndrome, and Trisomy 18. However, getting a negative screen does not guarantee a normal birth or a perfectly healthy baby.
What Should You Do If the Test Results Are Abnormal?
If the test results are abnormal, consult your doctor. She will most likely suggest a few more tests to determine the exact nature of the abnormality in the foetus. The first of these tests will most likely be an ultrasound where the age of the foetus will be determined. Along with this, the doctor will also check if the foetus’s brain, spinal cord, kidneys and heart to detect any problems.
The low-risk nature of the triple marker test ensures that even if the results are abnormal, the doctors will be able to either prepare you for the conditions to come or help cure it.
What Are the Reasons That Call for Further Testing?
Getting a triple marker test done can help identify or diagnose possible birth defects and genetic conditions but more importantly, it can help a parent prepare for them. One of the biggest reasons to get a test done is to help potential parents prepare for a life with a child who has special needs. This is done by:
Educating parents about the needs of a specially-abled child.
Connecting parents to support groups and therapist.
Raising awareness about a possible condition.
Giving parents an opportunity to consider all their options including surgery, medication and alternative therapy.
Alternative Screening Tests
Some parents may opt for alternative screening tests to further understand the diagnosis or get a second opinion. Getting tests like a prenatal ultrasound done can help parents confirm a diagnosis. Talk to your primary healthcare physician for a list of alternative tests to help you make the right choice about which test to opt for according to your needs.
Being prepared is the best way to tackle possible challenges. Knowing whether your baby is healthy or not is the first step to being prepared for your life ahead together. The triple marker test will help you prepare as well as rule out possible problems concerning your child’s health and welfare. So schedule for this test and other necessary tests and have a healthy pregnancy!
Also Read: Blood Tests During Pregnancy Read more
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Top 7 Baba Ramdev Yoga Asanas for Pregnant Women
It is imperative for pregnant women to stay active during the 9 months of pregnancy. But when you are pregnant, it is suggested to abstain from doing any rigorous exercise, so what do you do then? Light yoga asanas can help you! Here are 7 Baba Ramdev yoga asanas for pregnant women. Practice these asanas daily and stay healthy.
Yoga Asanas for Pregnant Women
Yoga is a pure form of exercise which can be performed by people of all ages. Yoga is a spiritual and physical discipline which finds its root in the ancient Indian culture. ‘Yoga’ has gained immense popularity across the globe because of International Yoga Day, which is celebrated on June 21, but even prior to that, people have made yoga a part of their lives and regard it as one of the main reasons for their good health. Yoga has also become a popular choice of exercise among pregnant women because of its umpteen benefits and no possible side effects.
Pregnancy is a time of extreme emotions—one moment you will be jumping (not literally though) with joy and the other moment you may be crying for no particular reason. This is due to hormonal changes; you will experience morning sickness, nausea, fatigue, mood swings and overall this phase can be physically exhausting.
As you enter into the second trimester of pregnancy, your baby will grow rapidly and this will exert pressure on your uterus, back, and spine. So be prepared to deal with back pain, cramps, and swollen ankles during this trimester. Although Yoga cannot completely take away this pain, it can help you alleviate it to an extent.
Performing yoga during pregnancy helps a woman deal with emotional and physical changes. Doctors generally suggest Yoga for pregnancy as it is gentle on the body and helps relieve pain and keeps the body supple. There are claims that the practice of certain asanas also eases labour and delivery.
Here are 7 best ‘Baba Ramdev’ Yoga asanas that you should perform during pregnancy.
Baba Ramdev Yoga Asana for Pregnant Women
Baba Ramdev, who is a popular yoga guru, has altered the way we look at Yoga. He has simplified Yoga for us in a way that is more doable for a layperson. Many times he has even stressed on the fact that yoga is safe for pregnant women, but, it is obvious for an expectant woman to have her doubts about the same. But don’t be in doubt any more pregnant ladies, as here are 7 best Yoga asanas that can safely be performed with ease during pregnancy.
1. Tadasana (Mountain Pose)
Tadasana is the basic yoga asana which can be performed by anyone. This asana should be generally performed in the morning hours. As such, there is no strict rule to do this asana on an empty stomach, but if it is followed by other asanas, then you need to perform it on an empty stomach.
How to do:
Stand tall with your feet hip-width apart.
While standing, your spine should be erect, hands close to your body, and palms facing your thighs.
Now join your hands in the ‘Namaskar Mudra’.
Inhale deeply, elongate your spine and raise your hands above your head.
Stretch your back and tilt your head back so that you can look at your fingertips.
Hold this position for 10-15 seconds, then exhale slowly, and return to normal position.
Benefits:
Tadasana is a great Yoga pose for pregnant women. This asana improves blood circulation, posture, and strengthens thighs and legs. This asana also provides relief from back pain.
2. Trikonasana (Triangle Pose)
Trikonasana again is a wonderful pregnancy yoga asana. This asana helps throughout the pregnancy.
How to do:
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PjI8kQd7eEg
KEY TAKEAWAY: Trikonasana is a great pregnancy yoga pose that you can perform in the second trimester of pregnancy, it opens the hips which ultimately helps you during labour:
Spread your feet wide enough.
Now, inhale and bring your arms up to the height of your shoulders.
Then exhale and turn your right foot out to 90 degrees and turn your left foot in, to about 45 degrees.
As you inhale, stand tall and when you exhale, try to reach the right side with your left hand and your top hip should go back.
Lower your right hand towards the shin and raise your left arm towards the ceiling.
Breathe in and hold this position for 30 seconds.
Return to normal position using your strong leg, thigh and with top arm. And repeat the same with your left leg.
Benefits:
Trikonasana strengthens thighs, knees, ankles, arms, and chest. It also helps improve digestion during pregnancy. This asana also stretches and opens the hips, hamstrings, and groins. Trikonasana can even be performed post-pregnancy.
3. Virbhadrasana (Warrior Pose)
Virbhadrasana is one good asana for strengthening your lower body.
How to do:
Stand straight with your feet together and place your hands on either side of the body, palms facing the thighs.
Now spread your feet hip-width apart.
Bend your right knee in a way that your knee and ankle are in straight line.
Slowly lift your hands above your head; your palms should be now in ‘Namaskar Mudra’.
Hold this warrior pose for some time, breathe normally, and return to normal position.
Repeat this pose with left leg.
Benefits:
Virbhadrasana helps in strengthening back, shoulders, calves, ankles, and thighs. It improves the balance of the body and increases stamina.
4. Sukhasana (Easy Pose)
Sukhasana is a pose of meditation and should be performed in the morning hours. This yoga asana is best for beginners.
How to do:
Sit straight on a yoga mat with your feet stretched out in front.
Cross your legs in a way that your knees are bent and each foot is under the knee.
Now place your palms on the knees.
Sit erect, your spine should be straight.
Breathe normally and let your body relax.
Maintain this position for 10-15 minutes.
Benefits:
Sukhasana is an easier alternative to Padmasana, which is an advanced Yoga asana. This asana relaxes your mind and body, stretches knees and ankles, and strengthens the back.
5. Marjaryasana (Cat-cow pose)
Marjaryasana or the cat-cow yoga pose for pregnancy should be performed only in the first six months and not beyond that. This asana strengthens shoulders and wrists and improves blood circulation levels.
How to do:
On a yoga mat, get down on your knees and arms; your back should be in a table-top position.
Your knees should be hip-width apart, arms should be perpendicular to the floor and palms touching the mat.
Slowly inhale while raising your chin up and tilt your head backwards. Also, lower your spine in a way that your back is in a concave position.
Hold this pose for a few breaths; exhale and drop your head and chin down while arching your back.
Again, stay in this position for a few seconds and come back to normal position.
Benefits:
Marjaryasana tones the abdomen and helps the body deal with additional weight during pregnancy.
6. Uttanasana (Forward Bend)
In pregnancy, doing the normal Uttanasana is hard, but you can make slight changes in this asana and perform it in a way you feel comfortable.
How to do:
Stand straight with your feet apart.
Place your arms at your sides, palms facing the thighs.
Slowly breathe in and raise your arms above your head.
Exhale and bend forward.
Your hands should be behind your back and palms touching each other, in the form of ‘Namaskar Mudra’.
Stay in this position for 15-30 seconds, then take a deep breath and come back to the starting position.
Do 4-5 reps. of this asana.
Benefits:
Uttanasana provides relief from back pain. Uttanasana is generally not recommended during pregnancy. And if you feel uncomfortable or have a problem in balance, then avoid doing it.
7. Shavasana (Corpse Pose)
Shavasana should be performed at the end of a yoga session. After a strenuous pregnancy yoga workout, relax your mind and body with ‘Shavasana’.
How to do:
On a yoga mat, lie down on your back and keep your legs apart in a relaxing position. After the first trimester, this asana can be performed by lying on one side of your back.
Close your eyes and place your arms along your body and palms facing up.
Breathe in and out slowly but deeply and allow your body to calm.
Stay in this position for 10 -12 minutes and you will feel refreshed.
Now come to a sitting position on the mat, keep your eyes closed.
Cover your face with your palms and gently massage your entire face with your palms.
Benefits:
Shavasana helps your mind and body to relax. As anxiety and stress are a common problem in pregnancy, this asana can help you tackle it easily.
FAQs
1. Can I try Yoga for the First Time when Pregnant?
Yes, yoga is safe and won’t harm your health. Even if you have never tried it before, you can start with yoga during pregnancy. Although if you are doing it for the first time, start with simple exercises and don’t stress yourself out. It is better to consult a doctor to know which asanas are good. In any case, the above mentioned are safe first-trimester pregnancy exercises for you.
2. When should I start Prenatal Yoga?
Even though it is safe to perform Yoga for the first time during pregnancy, but when it is your first time, practice it from the second trimester. Your body will experience a lot of changes in the second trimester and Yoga can help you cope with them.
3. What do I wear for Pregnancy Yoga Practice?
When performing yoga during pregnancy, wear loose and comfortable clothes. Remember, your clothes should not obstruct the flow of your exercise. Wear clothes in which you can stretch easily.
4. How far into my Pregnancy can I practice Yoga?
Yoga can be practised right up to the last trimester of pregnancy.
5. When can I start Postnatal Yoga?
If you have had a normal (vaginal) delivery, you should wait until you stop bleeding; start after 2 - 4 weeks of childbirth. And in case it is a cesarean delivery, you will have to wait longer till your body heals completely. Usually, you should wait for about 6 weeks before you start with postnatal yoga. And it is safe to consult a doctor before you start exercising.
6. Can I do Baba Ramdev Yoga for Weight Loss during Pregnancy?
No, you should not do these yoga poses for weight loss during pregnancy. As when pregnant, your focus should be on staying fit and NOT on losing weight. A healthy weight GAIN is required during pregnancy so that your baby is adequately supplied nutrients essential for development.
Yoga is safe for all, whether pregnant or not. But, if you are pregnant and want to get your body moving, start doing yoga. Don’t be in confusion, consult and confirm if you want, but rest assured, yoga for pregnant ladies is safe.
Pregnancy yoga poses will help you stay active throughout the nine months of your pregnancy. Baba Ramdev yoga poses for pregnancy will assist you in gaining healthy weight and reduce the chances of a cesarean delivery. So, try Baba Ramdev yoga for normal delivery. And if you are doing some other yoga asanas in pregnancy, share with us in the comments below. Read more
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PlayDoh Maximises Fun & Learning for My Child
https://youtu.be/De7ipfNDmIw
Play-Doh is great for children, I remember playing with it when we were kids! It helps children explore with their imagination while developing both gross & fine motor skills. As a mother I am always on a lookout for toys that are safe , fun and educational. Play-Doh ticks all the boxes. It is non-toxic, recyclable, colorful, educational all in one! The fact that it is primarily made up of water, flour and salt is just great!
Play-Doh has these amazing product lines like Numbers & Counting, Colors & Shapes, Letters & Language, etc. that help the child learn while they play . The one we have is Colors and Shapes, it helps my son learn and play with shapes while learning their names and identifying colors. Best thing is they come with a together time guide, which helps you understand how you as a parent can get the best out of the product and have the maximum fun possible. Sometimes as parents we get stuck on what to play next, by having this together time guide it is easy to play a new game every time!
Disclaimer: The opinions expressed in this post are the personal views of the Blogger. The Blogger is a Mom of a 3 and-a-half Yr old & is an active user of FirstCry Parenting. Read more
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Apricot smoothie
Apricots are a sweet and tart fruit. They contain antioxidant vitamins A and C and the amino acid, tryptophan. Carotenoids in apricots may help prevent heart disease, reduce cholesterol and protect against certain cancers. Apricots may help protect vision and prevent constipation. Lycopene present may protect against prostate cancer.
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
2 People
5 Minutes
1 Minutes
Ingredients
10 apricots, cut in half and seed removed
1/4 cup plain yogurt
1/2 cup milk
2 tbsps (tablespoons) honey
1 tsp (teaspoon) vanilla
Method
Step 1
Blend all ingredients in blender until smooth.
Step 2
Pour into two chilled glasses and serve!
Nutritional Information
Servings: 1 cup
Calories
131
Sodium
55 mg
Total Fat
2 g
Potassium
0 mg
Saturated
1 g
Total Carbs
22 g
Polyunsaturated
0 g
Dietary Fiber
0 g
Monounsaturated
0 g
Sugars
21 g
Trans
0 g
Protein
5 g
Cholesterol
0 mg
Vitamin A
0%
Calcium
0%
Vitamin C
0%
Iron
0%
*Percent Daily Values are based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Your daily values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
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Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. ninth month mein kab tak delivery ho sakti hai
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
5 hours ago
A. anytime after full term 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
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. my last period date Dec 26 pregnancy test date January 31 check panen apom 37 days ipom enaku evlo weeks and days what ?..
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
5 hours ago
A. I don’t understand your language can you please post your question once again in English or Hindi whatever language you are more comfortable with because anybody on this only we can give you response on that
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. which good formula milk or baby food for 4 months old baby
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
5 hours ago
A. no complementary foods below 4 months can use any branded formula milk. 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
Expecting Mom due this month
5 hours ago
Q. Iam 9month pregnant and having very painful condition due to constipation and gastric issues
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
5 hours ago
A. during pregnancy better not to take medicines for constipation take lot of water green leafy vegetables seasonal fruits you can try suppository if the problem is more o k o k
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 7 months
3 hours ago
Q. hi Doc,
eating raw mango, chapathi or any heat producing foods cause miscarriage during first trimester?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
3 hours ago
A. no relation ok c. 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 Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 7 months
3 hours ago
Q. Hi Doc,
I'm getting cramps on my right side of lower stomach. is this normal or do I have to visit doc?
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. without examination it is difficult to tell proper treatment as well as advice so you should visit the doctor5 for health assessment as well as examination.
whether any investigations is required or not will be told by the doctor5
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