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9 Ways to Avoid Stress During Pregnancy
Excess levels of stress at any point in your life isn’t a very healthy thing - more so when you’re pregnant! But being a somewhat turbulent experience, it’s not easy to always avoid stress during your pregnancy. With a number of things to take care of, right from your unborn baby’s health to unexpected expenses to possible health complications, it’s possible that you’ll find your stress levels peaking at some point or the other. And these little bursts of stress can cause you and your baby more harm than you can think of!
How Does Excess Stress Affect a Pregnancy?
Stress can rear its head during pregnancy in many forms, from headaches to overeating to having trouble sleeping. But that’s just the beginning – excessive levels of stress can lead to serious complications, such as increased risks for preterm delivery, miscarriage, and/or low birth weight of the baby. And while the matter is still debatable, some studies have also found a link between behavioural problems in children to chronic stress experienced by their mothers while pregnant. There’s no dearth of triggers that can set you off - anxiety about the birth, about your body and health, about your baby, about the rising expenses (some of which may take you by surprise), and tons of other stuff! Of course, short bouts of stress that result from these triggers, as well as arguments or severe mood swings, won’t have you rushing to the hospital all the time. But if left unchecked, these little bouts can cause bigger problems in the future.
How to Ensure a Stress-Free Pregnancy
Now that you know the few main things that can keep you from having a restful pregnancy, here are a couple of measures you can try to tackle them head-on!
1. Eat and sleep well
There’s nothing like the benefits of good food and sound sleep, is there? Make sure that you follow a well-balanced diet, supplemented by a healthy amount of water daily (2 – 2.5 litres of water a day is recommended during pregnancy, as you’ll be drinking for two). Having your meals at regular times can help prevent your blood sugar levels from dropping, which in turn will keep you from feeling moody and tired all day long. As for sleep, we’re sure you know that feeling tired and sleep-deprived doesn’t put you in your best mood, and it certainly does it bit in increasing stress levels too. So catch those forty winks and 8 hours of sleep every night without fail!
2. Talk to someone you trust
Feeling as though you’re on edge the whole time? Or worried about yours or your baby’s health? If you feel like there’s a problem that needs to be addressed, speak to someone who you know you can rely on. This can be anyone, from your spouse to your parents to your best friends – anyone you think can help you out. Even if they aren’t able to do so directly, they may be able to direct you to someone who can. But keeping mum about something that’s troubling you is never the solution!
3. Get financial concerns out of the way
Pregnancy is a beautiful experience, no doubt, but it can be super challenging physically, emotionally, and let’s not forget, financially! From diagnostic tests to examinations to ultrasound scans to hospitalisation to tons of other expenses (most of which aren’t usually covered under health insurance plans), you’ll find yourself shelling out a considerable amount of money constantly, and that can definitely add to your stress. Instead of working up a major hole in your savings, opt for Lifecare Finance from Bajaj Finserv to avail the best of maternity care on easy EMIs. Available in 400+ cities, this payment system offers a loan of up to Rs. 4 lakhs, which can be conveniently repaid over a period spanning up to 18 months. You can avail on-spot financing simply by submitting certain basic documents or with your Health EMI Network Card. Right from conception through IVF treatment to consultations with a nutritionist to regular health check-ups and for the process of delivery, Lifecare Finance can easily be your one-stop solution to financing your maternity care needs. This way, you can concentrate more on yourself and your baby without constantly stressing over money matters!
4. Exercise regularly
We don’t mean strenuous workouts, of course – gentle exercise should do the trick just fine. There are several types of exercises that are perfectly safe to do during pregnancy, be it swimming, walking, stationary cycling, low-impact aerobics and so on. Not only will exercising regularly help you stay fit, but it also lowers the level of cortisol (also known as the stress hormone) in your body, thereby reducing stress levels too.
5. Don’t skip appointments with your doctor
Make sure you regularly visit your doctor, so that you’re well aware of how you’re progressing in your pregnancy, and if there are any problems you need to be aware of, regarding you or your baby. Regular appointments can help screen any complications right from the beginning, so that appropriate measures can be taken.
6. Meditate
From promoting better sleep to relieving stress and anxiety (especially if you start practising meditation or yoga in early pregnancy) to reducing the possibility of postpartum depression, practising meditation has numerous benefits that can help you during pregnancy. You can try guided meditation or follow videos online to understand the right techniques.
7. Prepare for the birth
A lot of times, stress can stem from the very thought of having to go through the birthing procedure - after all, you would have heard plenty of stories that can make you anxious for what’s ahead. But you can always be prepared by asking the right people about your doubts, be it your doctor or someone you trust. Making a flexible birth plan, treating any suspicious symptoms early on, or even going for therapy (if you’re extremely anxious) can be helpful in combating stress levels.
8. Prioritise ‘me time’!
If not now, then when! Carving out a few minutes of your day to do something you like is super important. Whether it’s simply to listen to soothing music, journal your thoughts, meditate, watch TV or to do nothing at all, make sure that you prioritise your comfort and your time. Try it for yourself; taking a break can do major wonders for your mental health!
9. Don’t forget the post-delivery part!
You may be well aware that stress is not something you need to take care of only during pregnancy - after all, what comes after those trying 9 months is the actual difficult part. From expenses shooting up post the baby’s arrival, any possible health complications you face after the delivery, or even arranging funds for post-natal treatments, there could be plenty of triggers to crank up your stress levels. The same measures mentioned above apply still - prioritise your well-being and take care of your health; after all, you can only care for your little one if you’re feeling your best! Also, opt for a safe financial measure that will help keep your reserve funds and the money saved away for your baby intact, such as the Lifecare Finance,which can cover all your maternity care needs - sessions with nutritionists, health check-ups, IVF treatment, delivery, and even stem cell preservation once the baby is born. Identify triggers that make you anxious, be prepared for the things you know are headed your way and ask for help whenever you need it. You can know more about Lifecare Finance by watching our video. You can also check your pre-approved offer by filling in the form below. Remember, it’s not the little bouts of stress that can harm you or your unborn baby but chronic stress that goes unchecked. While these measures may seem small now, your mind, body, and your baby will thank you for taking them in the future!
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Common Troubles During Breastfeeding That No One Talks About
Being a mom to a 2-month-old angel, I was on cloud 9 on the day of my delivery. All my pain and crying stopped when I saw my little one. Mine was a vaginal term delivery, and she weighed 3.34 kg at birth. Things were pretty good and smooth till then.
Then came the session of breastfeeding. Being a doctor, I knew very well the importance of breastfeeding my baby soon after delivery. Like any other mom, my mind was prepared for feeding until the horrors struck.
Horror 1:
Being a first-time mom, my breasts had not yet started producing milk. It was a hassle from then, as she started feeling hungry soon after delivery and I couldn’t feed her.
Solution:
It took 4-5 days for my breasts to start producing colostrum and until then, she would keep sucking and turning more irritable. As advised by my obstetrician and her paediatrician, we resorted to formula feeding in the beginning.
Horror 2:
One of my nipples was retracted, but that would pull off slowly with the help of a massage. But the real horror didn't end there - even though I was vigilant of massaging and oiling my nipples during the antenatal period, nothing actually seemed to be effective as I developed severe nipple cracks and fissures. To accompany that, I had unimaginable pain when the baby latched and sucked, along with soreness and bleeding. I literally cried through each feeding session, and within a day, breastfeeding became a nightmare.
Solution:
As advised by my obstetrician, I used silicone nipple shields bilaterally and applied nipple cream after each feeding session. It took almost 30 days for the pain to reduce, and to be frank, it hasn't completely healed yet.
Horror 3:
As I started finally started producing milk 3-4 days after my delivery, my baby stopped sucking! I believe that it was because she either felt that it was useless to suck on something empty, or because she had sucked blood a few times accidentally. This lead to engorgement of both my breasts, causing another pain sequence.
Solution:
Self-expressing milk worked for a bit, but the real cure was pumping milk. I used a manual vacuum pump to express the milk and I fed her that.
Horror 4:
Due to extreme pain while breastfeeding, I was reluctant to feed her on demand and I would resort to formula feeding more frequently, which led to a decrease in milk production.
Solution:
Home remedies such as garlic, ghee, sprouts, milk, lots of water, eggs, and many other foods rich in protein and fat were added in my diet which, to some extent, did help me out. Above all that, I decided to breastfeed her on demand regardless of the pain I suffered.
Horror 5:
The nipple shield - the saviour I needed - was now my biggest headache. As she got used to latching and feeding while on nipple shields, when I gradually decided to feed her without it, she would turn incredibly fussy. She would never latch on or suck.
Solution:
As there were many sterility issues with using nipple shields, I had to train her to feed without them. It took several days for her and me to successfully start our journey of proper breastfeeding.
Some pieces of advice to all the new moms out there:
It is okay if you don't produce milk soon after delivery; a majority of moms don’t. So calm down and keep feeding your baby. Let her learn to latch properly while you find the best position to feed her.
It is okay to put your baby on formula feeding, provided you follow the procedure to the T and only give the amount advised by the paediatrician. But remember that breast milk is always best for the baby. Never be reluctant to feed.
Nipple soreness is a common issue in almost all first-time moms, and it will heal by itself. Apply breast milk to your nipples after each feed. Unsalted butter also helps. Train your baby to latch properly because a wrong latch can cause sore nipples.
Nipple cracks take time to heal as there is no rest to the damaged skin. The more you feed, the more time it takes to heal. Talk to your obstetrician about such issues during the antenatal period so as to prevent these problems at the early stage itself.
There is nothing wrong in pumping breast milk and feeding your baby in case of nipple cracks and engorgement, provided you follow the complete sterility procedure.
Use of nipple shields should be done very carefully. Boil them after each feed for about 5 minutes and store them in clean, sterile containers. Do not over depend on nipple shields as they can cause nipple confusion and potential latching issues.
It is important that your baby gets the initial colostrum from you as it takes care of all her health, growth, and immunity. The amount of breast milk you produce will gradually increase with time. It is important for moms to eat healthy, frequent meals and drink lots of water to ensure proper milk production. You can also take medication for the same under the supervision of your obstetrician.
Every mom is different, so never stand for any comparisons or taunts. Also never resort to any wrong practices and medicines that a non-professional would advise to increase breast milk because what you eat ultimately reaches your baby. She may fall ill.
Lastly, not all moms produce enough milk to satisfy their baby's hunger. Keep a check on weight gain, the number of stools passed, and frequency of urination. Ideally, a newborn uses 10% of their birth weight in the initial days post birth, and they gain back the weight within 10 days. From there on, they gain about 30 g per day. Passing stools 5-6 times and urinating about 12 times is expected in newborns. A total of 1 to 1.2 kg weight gain is ideal for a baby by the time they turn 1 month old.
It is okay to feed formula if you do not have enough breast milk. There is nothing to be embarrassed about it. Not everyone is perfect. Do not give ears to myths and old moms who scrutinise and judge you for the same.
Last but not least - keep calm, be happy, take care of yourself and rest when your baby sleeps because you need to take care of your body. Things don't end with childbirth; they go into a whole new phase. Talk to your better half or your mom about your worries. It is okay to feel sad sometimes because it is part of the job. Believe me, the pain is worth it in the end!
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
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A Trip to Goa with your Children
Water parks, planetariums, go karting, serene beaches, sun and the sand and a drink in your hand - where can you get all these and more? In Goa, naturally! Bond with your children and enjoy time away from home with a few amusing activities for kids in Goa. This tourist hotspot is one place that you must definitely visit once!
Spending time together as a family away from home can be refreshing. It not only helps strengthen bonds, but also provides a positive outlet for the teeming kiddie energy. If you've been wanting to take a trip with the kids, head to Goa - the famed tourist spot that offers so much to see and do.
Goa is always viewed as a romantic or a honeymoon destination. However, we beg to differ by saying that Goa has something to offer to everyone. It is not always about cheap alcohol and secluded beaches, it is also about the para-sailing, boat rides, scuba-diving and other water sports. Besides, Goa has a huge platter of seafood to offer its visitors. So, break the convention and head to Goa with your kids this vacation-time. Leaf through to note the fun things your children can do, when in Goa.
Activities for Kids in Goa
1. Try Go Karting
A must-try for older children, go karting is one activity that even you'll enjoy. Driving down the track with your little one beaming by your side is an experience that's not to be missed. You could even challenge your son or daughter to a few laps! When equipped with proper safety gear, go karting is quite safe and totally thrilling. You can find a go karting track along the Anjuna-Calangute road in Arpora, which is in north Goa. If your children already have a go karting experience, why not plan your trip around upcoming competitions? Nuvem in Salcette, which is along National Highway 17, has a track that's more complex with higher speeds and difficult turns. Teenage kids will love putting their skills to the test and you'll be excited to see how your little one has grown up enough to be able to race cars.
2. Splash Around in Water Parks
If your children love playing in water, you definitely need to take them to one of the water parks. You can visit Splashdown, which incidentally, is situated in Arpora, the same area that has a go karting track. Your children will have a ball trying out the water slides, pools, flumes and even a dance floor that's perfect for parties. If your little one has a birthday coming up, plan a surprise bash in this locale. She'll cherish the day and will thank you for making it so memorable. The second water park you can visit is the Blue Whale Water Park that's right near the Royal Goan Beach Club. Blaster boats, pools and slides dominate the scene in the Blue Whale. If your young child is a little nervous trying a slide, get on with him and lead the way. He'll soon discover the joys of splashing about in water and may not even want to leave!
3. Visit The Planetarium
Rounding off our list of attractions for kids in Goa is a place that promises to inspire awe. Introduce your children to the marvelous world of cosmos through the Goa Science Center and Planetarium. Take them to see beautiful, moving images of space. Let them be awestruck by the vastness of the space. Share their wonder as you catch a 3D show that takes you through simulated space conditions. The science park, meanwhile, sits on four acres of land and features many installations to stimulate curiosity and learning. This is a lovely place for the family to spend time together, so make sure to include it in your itinerary.
The places mentioned above will not only keep the kids entertained, but they are also as adult-approved as they can be. And who knows, by visiting these places, you may unknowingly sow the seeds of aspiration of becoming a car racer, a swimmer or a scientist, in your kids. In short, there are many things to do in Goa for kids and these are just a few. Grownups have an equal number of fun places to see and things to do too. Enjoy everything this tourist hotspot has to offer and take back beautiful memories of the trip. Read more
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New Study Shows 5 Surprising Reasons Moms Are Always More Tired Than Dads!
Parenting is a team job. It is something that moms and dads must play equal part in. Increasingly today, more and more dads are actually pitching in to help their wives in looking after the baby and bringing up the children. That said, at the end of the day, it is usually the mom who looks haggard, sleep-deprived and has dark circles under the eyes. Friends and family look on and nod in understanding – after all, she’s a mom and this is bound to happen. Well, we agree. It is now a scientifically proven fact that moms are more tired with parenting than dads are. A new study that explores the differences between moms and dads has proved this without doubt…
The study was performed by a team of researchers at the University of Minnesota in the US. Their findings are based on the time diary data submitted by from more than 12,000 parents. This data has been linked to their feelings and levels of fatigue. And we must say, most of the findings seem straight on point!
Why Moms Get Way More Tired Than Dads!
Here is the list of reasons parenting is more tiring for a mom than it is for a dad. Go through the list and we have a feeling you’ll definitely agree!
Reason #1: Moms Take More Part in the ‘Work’ Than in the ‘Fun
When it comes to fun time, moms find themselves going without any ever so often! Since they have so many chores to finish and errands to complete, they forego many of the fun activities that are proven to reduce stress in the body. Most of their time per day goes in completing work rather than in cementing relationships and relieving stress. This involves work done to meet their child's needs, keeping the house clean, looking after their husband's interests, etc.
Reason #2: Moms Need to be Available Around the Clock
It is almost considered a given that mothers can be called on by kids 'around the clock'. In India too, many moms today are stay-at-home-moms while the Dads have a job to go to in the morning. This is why it is considered necessary for the fathers to get their sleep and for the mother to attend to interruption by the kids and night-time chores such as diaper changing, feeding, playing, calming baby down to sleep, etc.
Reason #3: Moms Have to Handle Many Things On Their Own
The study also pointed out that when mothers are with their kids, they are usually by themselves. However, when fathers are with their kids, it is likely that the mother or other adults will be around. These grownups provide some back-up to the fathers and reduces their stress of being around a new baby or doing something completely on their own.
Reason #4: Moms Get to Sleep Way Less Than Dads Do
Ah, the familiar pain point! Sleep is a big question for moms – both at night and during the day. Moms have to be up intermittently every night to look after the baby. At daytime too, she cannot always ‘nap when the baby does’, as is often suggested. She has household chores, personal tasks, and professional commitments, if working, to complete. The study has established that sleep also has an effect on differing levels of happiness in parents.
Reason #5: Moms Don’t Have Time For Family Leisure Activities
Finally, not participating in leisure activities with your husband, kids and in-laws is yet another reason you are more tired. When the rest of the family is having dinner, playing a board-game, or out for a walk, many moms stay back to finish pending chores. While this clears her time for other things, it has a slow-building but long-term effect on her mind and body. The study showed that leisure time with the family plays a big part in promoting happiness and warding off stress. When talking together, family members also express stress and conflict, understand each other better, and come closer.
Well, if nothing else, take this lesson from this new study: take GOOD CARE of yourself! Moms are prone to exhaustion, illness and emotional breakdowns and imagine what will happen to the household if this happens to you! Also, if your husband doesn’t help out much with the baby, try and at least enrol his help for the other one hundred things that need to be done around the house. Bringing up kids is something both parents need to share in. Only then can you truly experience the joy that having kids of your own brings!
So moms, how has the parenting journey been for you so far? Is your husband a hands-on-Dad who helps out with the baby or do you have to handle most of the work on your own? Do share your experiences with us in the comments. Read more
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Swati Kar Samanta has added a new answer
Mom of a 9 m old child
10 hours ago
Q. hi everyone good morning,
sorghum can I give to my 10 month baby is it safe or not please revert I waiting for your reply
Swati Kar Samanta
Mom of a 2 m old girl
9 hours ago
A. Yes but first give in very small quantity to judge the reaction of your baby.
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
8 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts is it okay that the baby is kicking less than usual?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
8 hours ago
A. Yes it is the what part is that your child is kicking if you feel that there is a movement of your child whether it is a cake or slight movement also you know that your child is doing fine so there is no problem in that if the movement is less it’s completely alright
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
7 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts what to do if the baby’s nose is blovked
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
7 hours ago
A. Nasal blockage is very common, specially in small children because of the narrow nasal cavity. Any kind of saline drops like nasal clear will be helpful in dissolving the stuffy secretions, which can be taken out by vnasal aspirator gently also steam inhalation will be helpful also, try to avoid keeping the child directly under the fan.
Ankita Mehta has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
5 hours ago
Q. 22 week pregnant,baby konse month me or din me kitni baar move kartaa he ,pls bataye abhi sirf 2, 3 baar hi hota he
Ankita Mehta
Mom of a 8 yr 7 m old girl
3 hours ago
A. hi
yes it's enough
and the frequency and timing may vary as we all are different
but yes, the frequency of feeling baby movements will increase now
please go for regular check-up to your gynecologist
and follow his or her suggestions
Rashmi has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
4 hours ago
Q. hi
need help and advice
my RT 18x16mm and LT 10x16mm ET 6.59
and did ovulation rest also showing fertility test C as if now , pls advice if we intercourse tomorrow then when will be my ovulation start.
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
4 hours ago
A. You can check with an ovulation kit if it is positive then you can certainly go ahead with the conception because ovulation kit is going to give you 100% clarity whether you are ovulating or not with that you can try practising if you can conceive the same time
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
24 mins ago
Q. Bread feeding mother can have green tea
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
12 mins ago
A. Yes but do not exceed the limit of 2 cups per day as that is going to be more than enough for you to take further more I would just advise you not to have anything else for weight loss because when your breastfeeding it actually totally affects your breastfeeding as well of habit and moderation
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