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Common Breast Changes after Delivery
One of the significant advantages that women experience during pregnancy and after childbirth is the increase in the size of breasts. While this is highly welcomed by the ones who have had smaller breasts, some women might experience high engorgement and wonder how to reduce breast size after delivery to a normal one. Exercises might work in some cases, but not all breast changes are related to size.
How Do Breasts Change After Childbirth?
While pregnancy already starts affecting the size of the breasts and their appearance in a multitude of ways, childbirth seems to kickstart a different phase of growth altogether. Some of the changes in breasts are structural, while others might need to be corrected or treated as soon as possible.
1. Increase In Breast Size
While breast size undergoes an increase during pregnancy to help the child with breastfeeding after its birth, they tend to keep getting slightly bigger after the delivery, too.
Why This Happens
On the one hand, the diet of the mother could be responsible for weight gain, which begins to reflect in the size of the breasts, too. Similarly, the hormones are yet to settle down and may continue to affect the body in various ways.
What You Can Do
Do your best to stick to food items that are nutritious and help you keep your weight under control. Invest in a bra that is comfortable and can support your large breasts without any trouble.
2. Bumpy Nipples
Once the pregnancy sets in, the areolas of the breasts start darkening over time. At the same time, the nipple also begins to jut out prominently. This is further accompanied by the appearance of tiny spots on and around the region.
Why This Happens
These numerous changes that take place on the breast and the nipple are all meant to help the baby spot the nipple easily after birth, and latch on to it. These elements help the little one breastfeed easily with poor eyesight and developing sensory perception.
What You Can Do
Time is the only factor that can reduce these changes. Following childbirth, your nipples would return to their original state after a few months or so, followed by other areas of the breasts, too.
3. Stretch Marks On Breasts
The body and the belly do increase quite a bit during pregnancy. Most mothers are aware of the stretch marks that appear on the tummy. But seeing the same on their breasts can be quite unnerving.
Why This Happens
Not all mothers have stretch marks on their breasts, and this can be termed to a hereditary reason. You might have an elastic skin that stretches and relaxes more frequently than others, causing stretch marks to be more apparent with weight gain.
What You Can Do
The best tactic in such a scenario is to keep the weight gain in check and maintain a healthy nature of food consumption. Most stretch marks fade away and lighten up in the first year itself. You might opt for skin treatments later on if you wish to.
4. Asymmetrical Breasts
Breasts are not always perfect. You might have observed your own to be slightly lopsided, but not quite apparent immediately. However, after pregnancy, that skewed nature might be strongly evident.
Why This Happens
The lopsided nature of breasts occurs due to an unequal proportion of breast tissue on either side. This also is a factor for hormones to act on the breasts accordingly. Therefore, the larger breast seems to get even larger than before, making the difference apparent.
What You Can Do
The growth of the breasts that happens during pregnancy is normal, and there is nothing that can be done to control the rate of growth for each breast. Using the right bra can help improve their visual appearance in the initial weeks. Your breasts might return to their usual state in the following months.
5. Sagging Breasts
One of the biggest post-pregnancy breast changes is the sagginess that the breasts seem to get after pregnancy. The increasing size of the breasts during pregnancy is euphoric for many women. But the aftermath of saggy breasts can affect the body image and self-worth quite a bit.
Why This Happens
Numerous factors right from an increase in weight, to development of breast tissue, to the elasticity of skin play a role in the sagginess of breasts. Women who have had larger breasts to start with, do have a higher chance of experiencing saggy ones later on. Hereditary reasons cannot be excluded, too.
What You Can Do
Quite frankly, the only way to counter the sagginess in breasts is to make use of a bra that can make them look great, as well as maintain a controlled diet that doesn’t worsen the situation. A few creams or techniques can help tighten the skin to give them a perkiness, but that is just temporary.
6. Engorged And Achy Breasts
Increase in the size of breasts during pregnancy is one thing. However, after delivery, many mothers tend to have breasts that truly seem engorged and might start hurting after a certain point as well.
Why This Happens
Lactation is proceeding at a rapid pace after childbirth and, at times, it can cause the breasts to be overfilled with milk. This puts a stress on them and causes them to ache with the overflow. Leakage can be observed at times as well.
What You Can Do
Pumping out milk and storing it can quickly relieve the engorgement and reduce the aches as well. If not possible, using an ice pack or frozen cabbage leaves in the bra can help numb the sensation and reduce the pain.
7. Blocked Milk Ducts
The production of milk is quite an interesting process. Which is why some women wonder why their milk ducts seem to be blocked, even when they are lactating properly.
Why This Happens
The culprit in such a case is an improper bra. Women who continue to use bras with underwires after delivery, risk obstructing the milk ducts that lie under the breasts. This hinders the flow and generation of milk.
What You Can Do
Go for bras that have cotton bustiers that don’t dig into your skin. Breastfeeding bras with enhanced support are also available in the market.
8. Sore and Cracked Nipples
Nipples face the biggest brunt during pregnancy and even after childbirth. Amongst other changes that they undergo, there are instances when the nipples might get sore or even crack, resulting in pain.
Why This Happens
A mild degree of soreness is normal since your breasts have undergone a massive change. However, severe soreness or cracking is a sign of your little one failing to breastfeed properly or latch on to your nipple with ease.
What You Can Do
To reduce the repetitive irritation on the nipples, make sure your baby latches correctly while feeding him. There are certain creams or ointments you can use to soothe the nipples, which are safe for the baby, too.
9. Mastitis
The nipples jut out, the areola gets darker, and numerous tiny spots occur on the breast after childbirth. Amongst these changes, you might notice a bright red spot appear on your breast that gets painful and inflamed quickly.
Why This Happens
Your breast is being exposed to milk and saliva constantly. If incorrect feeding leads to cracked nipples, the entire area becomes a thriving ground for bacteria, which can cause an infection termed as mastitis.
What You Can Do
Blocked ducts are the major culprits for the occurrence of mastitis. Make sure your breasts are pumped regularly to avoid collection of milk in any specific area.
10. Abscess
Usually observed after mastitis, there might be instances where the initial red spot may turn yellow and sore, with a lump that is filled with pus.
Why This Happens
If a mother tends to ignore the mastitis and treat it right away, the infection can get worse. This becomes painful for the mother and unhygienic for the child, since his mouth can interact with the pus-filled area, too.
What You Can Do
Doctors might need to remove the swollen area to treat the infection entirely surgically. At times, a needle can also be used to remove the pus with minimal invasion.
Are These Postnatal Breast Changes Permanent?
Mothers might start opting for exercise to reduce breast size after delivery, which is a good thing. Most breast changes tend to fade away in a few months, while a bunch of them might be lifelong. Thankfully, there are always measures to make sure your breasts look their best as much as possible.
How To Maintain Breast Size After Pregnancy?
Taking care of your breasts and making sure they look just as attractive as before after pregnancy can be achieved with ease by making use of a few tips.
Start exercising and focus on those areas that are responsible for strengthening your breast muscles and holding them up. These play a vital role in giving that firm and perky look.
While you may want to lose your pregnancy weight soon, don’t opt for an extreme diet to make it happen. The sudden weight loss could also affect your breasts. Opt for healthy meals instead.
Improving blood circulation in the area of your breast can help rejuvenate them easily. Alternate hot and cold water during your baths to stimulate the flow of blood through your body.
At times, breasts can also get hard and achy. These scenarios can be easily corrected by opting for simple breast massages that help bring back their firm nature.
Wearing a bra with a hardwire inside it may not be the best choice. Keep wearing breastfeeding bras or ones with a cotton bustier instead, to help maintain a good breast size.
Despite undertaking different exercises and corrective measures, women often wonder will breast size decrease after delivery, especially if they have had smaller breasts earlier. It is important to note that the body has changed in various ways, and a healthy and fit body is highly necessary than anything else now.
Also Read: Breast Pain after Stopping Breastfeeding Read more
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Breast Milk Vs. Formula - Make an Informed Decision
Since time immemorial, new mothers have been at the receiving end of advice from well-wishers and other experienced mothers. One of the topics that come up is the concept of breastfeeding versus formula feeding. An ongoing debate, there are plenty of opposing views on this matter. Making an informed decision is necessary for the health and happiness of both, mother and baby.
Breast Milk or Formula Milk - What Should I Go For?
A recent study conducted suggests that while comparing young children who were breastfed to those who were not nursed as babies, there are not many differences between the two. However, the following positive developments were observed in children who were breastfed, against those who weren’t:
Kids who were nursed as babies showed fewer problems with hyperactivity, by the age of three.
These kids also scored higher on tests of vocabulary and problem-solving.
Remember this, moms: breastfeeding is undoubtedly the best source of nutrition for your baby, although there are certain 'dos and don'ts' you need to follow when it comes to the same. However, there could be a situation when you have to choose to formula-feed your infant. Knowledge about the nutritional value, as well as the growth differences presented by either option can help you make a more informed decision about the question of breastfeeding vs formula.
Growth Difference Between Breastfed and Formula-fed Babies
Here are the differences between the growth patterns of babies who are breastfed and their non-nursing counterparts.
1. A Few Days after Birth
Babies lose some weight immediately after birth. Studies have shown that when it comes to breastfeeding vs. formula feeding, infants who are fed on breast milk lose more weight than those who are fed formula in the initial weeks of birth. Though breast milk is more nutritious, supply can be low right after birth. On the other hand, there’s no dearth of formulated milk which is why babies who are formula-fed weigh more than breastfed children.
2. First 3-months
Health experts believe that once the supply of breast milk normalizes, there’s no difference between the growth of formula-fed babies and breastfed babies. Both can enjoy a good supply of nutritious milk and gain weight in a consistent manner.
3. 6 to 12 months
Doctors recommend that babies be introduced to solid food along with continuing breast milk or formula milk once they complete the 6-month milestone. This is when many mothers begin weaning their babies off milk and adding solid food to their daily diet. However, since many infants don’t finish the food given them, the growth of breastfed babies can be slower. But what about that of formula-fed babies?
For infants to grow at a consistent rate, they require a fair amount of energy and proteins. Once a mom tries to wean her baby by introducing him or her to solid food, breastfeeding gradually decreases. However, babies may not get all the required nutrition from solid food especially if they don’t eat too much or reject it completely. This means lower consumption of energy and protein-rich food. Yet babies who continue to be formula-fed get the required nutrients from formula milk. This is why a formula-fed baby growth chart shows 'better results' than that for breastfed babies.
Nutrients in Breast Milk Versus Formula
While formula contains necessary vitamins and minerals, the nutritional content of breast milk is unbeatable. Here is a summary of the nutrients in either option.
1. Formula
Seeing that there is a range of formulas on the market (eg: soy formulas, hypoallergenic formulas etc.), the following list gives just the general ingredients and content of what can typically be found in formula.
Water.
Carbohydrates (sources of energy) like lactose and corn maltodextrin.
Protein content (which help to build bones and muscles) from partially hydrolyzed reduced minerals whey protein concentrate.
Fats from palm olein, soybean oil, coconut oil, etc.
Minerals such as potassium citrate, calcium chloride, sodium citrate, etc.
Vitamins such as Vitamin D3, Vitamin B12, folic acid, riboflavin, etc.
Enzyme - Trypsin.
Amino acids (the building blocks of proteins) like taurine and L-Carnitine.
Nucleotides which are chemical compounds that are the structural units of RNA and DNA.
Soy Lecithin-An emulsifier.
2. Breast Milk
The nutritional content in breast milk is a long list that contains nutrients such as vitamins, carbohydrates, proteins, amino acids and so on, which are in formula milk - and then some more! The list extends to over 200 individual components of breast milk. Here’s a summarized list of the same.
Water.
Carbohydrates such as lactose and oligosaccharides.
Carboxylic acid like alpha hydroxy acid and lactic acid.
Proteins such as whey protein, alpha-lactalbumin, casein etc.
Non-protein nitrogens such as creatine, creatinine, urea etc.
Amino acids like alanine, arginine, valine, and so on.
Nucleotides like uridine diphosphate, guanosine diphosphate, etc.
Fats such as triglycerides, long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids, linoleic acids, etc.
Monounsaturated fatty acids, saturated fatty acids, phospholipids, sphingolipids etc.
Sterols like squalene, lanosterol, vitamin D metabolites, steroid hormones, etc.
Vitamins A, B6, B8, B12, C, D, E, K and numerous others.
Hormones which are chemical messengers that carry signals to one or a group of cells to another via the blood.
Enzymes such as amylase, catalase, lipase and so on, which support chemical reactions in the body.
Antimicrobial factors, which are used by the immune system to identify and neutralize foreign objects, such as neutrophils, lymphocytes, phagocytes and so on.
Breast milk contains plenty of antibodies that equip babies with a better immune system. In the long run, this proves to be more beneficial for their steady growth and development. There is no comparison to the goodness of mother's milk for the baby. Also, some of the constituents in formula may be hard to digest and can result in diarrhoea. Fats in formula milk are hard to break down too and could lead to excessive weight gain. Though the growth chart for breastfed babies may not seem to be as impressive as that of formula-fed infants, studies show that breastfeeding is more nutritious.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NuS2lnOkBWE
KEY TAKEAWAY:
In this video, Dyan Hes, a paediatrician, compares breastfeeding and formula feeding for babies, and how mothers have to make a choice based on what they are comfortable with.
Breast milk offers protection for the baby’s immune system like no other source. Babies who are breastfed are less likely to be affected by common childhood infections such as diarrhoea, ear infections, and even asthma.
If you are starting your baby off with formula, choose a cow’s milk formula. The nutrients in formula that is available on the market are comparable to that of breast milk as well.
If your baby is being exclusively breastfed, he will require Vitamin D drops, around 400 units a day, starting when he turns two weeks of age. Babies on formula don’t require the same.
Switching Between Breast Milk and Formula
Even if you make the decision to breastfeed your baby and stick to that decision itself, there may be trying situations that may require you to switch between breast milk and formula. It could be that your body is not producing adequate milk for your child; or that you are unable to feed or pump due to time or place constraints (such as, at the workplace); or that your sleep is getting interrupted due to night-time feedings. In such scenarios, you’ll probably have to depend on incorporating formula in your baby’s nursing schedules.
If inadequate breast milk supply requires you to switch to formula at intervals, keep in mind that the baby may consume a quantity more than while he is breastfed. This may mean that his hunger will be satiated for longer, and the intervals between his feeding may increase. At the next feeding though, offer your breast first. By alternating between breast milk and bottle feeding, you can work out a regularity in your schedule eventually.
Figure out as early as possible what you prefer to feed the baby with at nighttime. If you are in dire need of shut-eye, formula-feed the baby right before he goes to sleep. Since he will take in more, it will help him sleep longer through the night as well. Ensure that you burp him properly as alternating between breastfeeding and bottle feeding can cause gas in your baby.
While introducing the baby to formula, some claim that mixing formula and breast milk can help the baby adjust to the taste of formula. However, it is best to stay clear of this idea due to two main reasons - the components of breast milk and formula milk are different and also, the shelf life differs for both options as well. Following this method can cause problems for your little one.
After you've dealt with labour and birth, your biggest concern is your newborn's health and development. You want to ensure that your bundle of joy gets all the nourishment he or she needs for proper growth. Breast milk can provide your little one all the nourishment he needs in his early stages. However, if you are unable to or not interested in breastfeeding for any reason, please discuss this with your doctor and take a call accordingly. Read more
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How to Deal with Sleep Regression in Babies
Did you know that your baby's brain development can affect his behaviour? Sleep is one of the many bodily functions where this is most apparent. While newborn babies tend to drift into a deep slumber instantly, adults have a distinct sleeping pattern of going through light sleep and then deep sleep. This transition of sleep patterns does not exist in babies. However, just like their physical growth, you will find their brain development in full swing within months. Sadly, babies tend to become fussy and clingy during this time as it wreaks havoc on their sleeping patterns.
What is Sleep Regression?
The disturbance in sleep caused by the developmental changes in a baby is called sleep regressions. This occurs at different ages - when a baby is of four months, eight months, eleven months, eighteen months, and at two years of age. 6-month sleep regression is also quite common in children. Not every child will go through a sleep regression during the months mentioned here, but it is common for babies to experience sleep regressions.
When Does Sleep Regression Happen?
Here are some of the months where sleep regression happens and how to deal with it.
1. 4-Month Sleep Regression
The first time you will notice a change in your baby’s sleeping pattern is when he is around 4-months-old, but sleep regression happens even in babies who are 3 to 5-months-old.
What Happens in 4-Month Sleep Regression?
While your baby may have slept in longer stretches before, now you will notice that he wakes up frequently at night and takes shorter naps. During this time, he will be more prone to waking up about every two hours.
Why Does It Happen?
These changes in sleep are caused because of your baby’s developing brain. As his brain starts to develop, his sleep pattern undergoes changes, and it begins to become just like that of adults. He will start to experience the two stages of sleep, light and deep, which is probably going to be your baby’s first experience with sleep regression.
How to Deal With It
Here are some solutions for four-months-old baby's sleep regression:
Help him to fall asleep the way you normally do, but at certain scheduled times. Maybe you usually nurse your child to put him to sleep. Keep doing that for a while until he is used to the new routine. You can slowly wean him off this habit later.
Try using a pacifier to soothe your baby while putting him to sleep. Swaddling is another helpful way to calm your baby down when it’s time for his naps or bedtime.
Create a comfortable and safe environment for him. This will often mean you should be at home and not on the move. It is difficult for a baby to have a sound sleep if you are out and about.
There is something known as a “dream feed,” which works for many parents, especially if the baby is less than six months. In this technique, you feed your child around his bedtime, and then you carefully give him a nightcap during his sleep before you go to bed.
2. 8-Month Sleep Regression
Yet another time to be on the lookout for sleep changes in your baby’s usual routine. Some babies even experience sleep regression when they are 7-months-old.
What Happens in 8-Month Sleep Regression?
Cognitive development during this time can affect a baby’s sleep at this age. By this time, the baby will start refusing naps and will probably start trying to fight it. Most of the time, these regressions seem to take place during nap transitions.
Why Does This Happen?
Your baby will be going through many baby milestones and some physical changes. He will begin to crawl, cruise, and may even start his attempts at communication. Some babies also start teething at this age. All these changes are bound to affect your baby’s sleep.
Nap transitions are another thing that may trigger sleep regression in babies. Usually, this is the age where the third nap of the day should be eliminated, especially if your baby is fighting it most of the time anyway. When a nap transition is not handled correctly, it could cause a regression.
An 8-months-old baby sleep regression could also be a result of your baby developing separation anxiety at this age, and he can become very clingy.
How to Deal With It
The best ways to deal with sleep regression in your 8-month-old are as follows:
Stick to the regular sleep routine as changing anything may result in more problems. This period of regression is only a temporary one, after all.
Allow your baby to have a lot of time during the day to practice all the new skills he has been learning, such as how to stand or cruise. This will help in reducing the chances of him trying to practice them in his crib.
Make a couple of nap schedules, one which is a three nap schedule and the other a two nap schedule. You may have to alternate between the two, but try making sure to give your baby an early bedtime if you are following the two nap schedule.
Make your baby’s sleeping area as dull as possible, so there is no stimulation to keep him awake. Make sure it is cosy, safe, and dark.
3. 11-Month Sleep Regression
This is somewhat rare, as many babies seem to skip this regression stage altogether.
What Happens in 11-Month Sleep Regression?
Your baby may start trying to refuse his second nap and try to make do with only one nap. This should not be encouraged as babies need two naps at least until the age of 15 months.
Why Does It Happen?
This particular sleep regression most often happens when parents try to transition their baby to one nap before he is ready. Although most babies these days do end up transitioning at this age and are fine, some do not, and in those cases, sleep regression will occur.
How to Deal With It
This may seem obvious, but keeping your baby on a two nap schedule is very important in dealing with the sleep regression at this age. While it may seem that your baby is naturally leaning towards a one nap cycle, you must keep in mind that very soon, he is going to start walking and trying other things, which will drain him of a lot of energy. This is why maintaining a two nap schedule will be a lifesaver and could prevent more sleep regressions in the future.
4. 18-Month Sleep Regression
Sleep regression taking place when a baby is 18-months-old is said to be the worst of all sleep regressions.
What Happens in 18-Month Sleep Regression?
One moment your baby is sleeping just fine, and all of a sudden, he isn’t. Toddler sleep regression is a time for more bedtime drama, more erratic naps, and constantly waking up at night. Around this time, the level of crankiness in babies only rises, he will want to be cuddled more often, and you will also notice a change in your baby’s appetite.
Why Does It Happen?
At this age, your baby is learning to be a bit more independent. And while this is something that will involve him learning how to feed himself with a spoon or put on his pants, he will also start defying you. This defiance can most often be seen even during bedtime, as he will want to either resist going to sleep or may decide to cry out for you and not go back to sleep until you soothe him. Teething is still taking place at this age, and this is when the canine teeth and the first molar tooth start appearing. It causes discomfort, and he can become restless. Babies at this age also experience separation anxiety. He may lie awake at night and eventually become upset if you are not there or may even resist sleep simply because he does not want to be away from you.
How to Deal With It
Here are a few things that you can try to help you and your baby get through this challenging phase:
Make sure to establish a steady bedtime routine that has a consistent and proper end. For example, spend some quality time with your baby before bedtime as this will comfort him. You can end your bedtime routine with a night prayer every single night that your baby will soon learn is a signal for when it is time to sleep.
Try introducing your toddler to a comfort item such as a teddy bear or a blanket of his choice. When children have something cosy and comfortable with them when they are in bed, they may not want to call out to you often.
Offer a bedtime snack rich in protein to ward off those late-night hunger pangs. This also turns out to be very useful for cases when growth spurts and sleep regressions coincide.
Your baby may not be able to understand if you try to complicate things, but telling your baby firmly why he needs to go to sleep in the simplest way possible will help a great deal in avoiding all the bedtime drama.
Some children begin to develop nighttime fears at this age, so putting a nightlight in your baby’s room may help to soothe him as he falls asleep.
Your toddler may not get over his sleep regression for a couple of weeks. Sometimes things take a little longer. In cases like this, you need to prepare yourself to retrain your baby on bedtime.
Remain consistent with your rules of what you will and will not allow. For example, if your child is not allowed in your bed, do not make an exception just because he is going through a sleep regression. Another thing you need to be firm about is how soon you will go to see your baby if he wakes up calling for you in the middle of the night. Waiting is usually encouraged to help babies learn to put themselves back to sleep. So, if you have given yourself a time of five minutes before going in to check on him, remain consistent and do not go in sooner than that.
5. 2-Year Sleep Regression
This may be the toughest one to handle. However, rest assured this is the last and final of the sleep regressions your child is most likely to go through.
What Happens in 2-Year Sleep Regression?
As in the cases of all the other regressions, your baby will put up a struggle during nap time or bedtime, sometimes staying up for an entire hour laughing and playing, or in worse cases, he will scream for most of it. Sometimes he may settle down but then will start up a fuss when you leave him alone.
Why Does It Happen?
At this age, children will go through separation anxiety, and sometimes, they may not want to miss out on the fun they think you are going to have without them. At two years of age, your baby will be going through a few notable life changes. Most children are potty trained at this age, and some may even be going from sleeping in a crib to sleeping on a kid’s bed. Some children will also have to deal with welcoming a new sibling at this time, something that disturbs most children as they feel they will not get much attention.
At this stage, you will notice your baby will start becoming self-aware, and this will cause him to resist taking naps. Your baby will also develop a vivid imagination, and while this is great in play, it can cause him to develop irrational fears at night as he will now be aware that there are bad things out there in the world that could hurt him.
How to Deal With It
Here are some ways to help your 2-year-old through her regression:
If your toddler seems to be developing sleep regression due to any lifestyle changes, such as potty training or shifting beds, stop and wait for a few months until you feel your baby is truly ready to deal with the lifestyle changes.
Sometimes you may need to change your baby’s nap schedule to allow for more awake time. You can do this by either scheduling his afternoon nap earlier or by pushing bedtime a little later than usual.
If your baby is resisting his naps, then make sure to give him “rest time” where you put him in his crib with some books and some toys. He needs to know that he can stay awake but that he needs to stay in bed. This is also beneficial for you because if he does end up feeling sleepy, he is already well-positioned for a nice nap.
If he experiences night terrors, the best thing you can do for him is to stay calm and not overreact as he will take most of her cues from you. Be gentle as you help your child back to sleep, but never encourage bad habits such as allowing your child into your bed or getting into bed with him.
Always remember that these sleep regressions that your baby will go through are not permanent, except for the sleep regression during the fourth month. If you have weaned your baby off of some sleep associations, do not go back to those habits to comfort your child. You can soothe your baby by doing other things that will help to comfort him.
Also Read: Bedtime Routine for Babies Read more
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 9 months
4 hours ago
Q. i missed my periods on 5 but when I checked in the morning urine that is not showing positive but when I check now I can see faint line ... why this is happening
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
3 hours ago
A. please wait they can be simple delayed period. 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
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Pregnancy Supplements - Why You Need It, What's Safe and Unsafe
With advice on the right kind of nutrition and balanced diet spread everywhere, a pregnant mother can have a lot of confusion in understanding what the right decision to be taken is. Most of the things to avoid are well-known, such as seafood, or wine, and smoking and so on. But, there are certain options which can seem healthy at first but should definitely be avoided to be consumed. These are mostly related to the intake of iron supplement in pregnancy and other supplements. What is safe and what isn’t? Find out below.
Why You Need to Take Supplements in Pregnancy?
Here’s why supplements may be essential during pregnancy.
Every woman has a unique dietary requirement and needs for nutritional elements that are specific to her. With all the variation that is possible, getting a good amount of vitamins and minerals on a daily basis is an absolute necessity for a pregnant woman.
Proteins are extremely necessary throughout the entire duration of pregnancy since it’s a complete period of growth of another life form and that requires lots of protein. Most of it can be acquired from meat, eggs, and other sources. But if that consumption is not up to the mark, or if you are a vegetarian, then you may need to supplement your intake of protein with something else.
Vegetables, on the other hand, have a lot of minerals in them. Green leafy vegetables, especially, come with tons of nutrients associated with them such as folate and iron that are integral to a healthy growth of the foetus. However, their percentage in the vegetables may not be as much as required for you and that might need an additional source of vitamins and minerals, too.
Fat is not bad and moreover, pregnant mothers are advised to intake good amounts of healthy fats, not trans fats. Fats are the key to providing growth of organs in the baby, developing its brain, and breast milk production for the mother. Fats can be consumed from a bunch of sources, but if you are facing issues of milk production or your doctor doesn’t seem to be happy with the baby’s growth, you might be lacking in fat consumption.
Safe Pregnancy Supplements
If you are considering supplements during pregnancy, here are some safe options.
1. Folate
Folic acid supplementation in pregnancy is highly recommended, especially in the very early stages of pregnancy. In the initial weeks, your baby’s growth consists of the formation of the spinal cord. Folic acid has been known to be instrumental in the formation of the cord in a proper manner. This supplement could be a part of a multi-vitamin, too. It’s good to note that a consumption of max 1200 micrograms of folate is considered safe for pregnancy.
2. Prenatal Multivitamins
These supplements are generally recommended to all mothers by most doctors everywhere. It’s good to take prenatal multivitamins since they ensure the consumption of all the crucial nutrients required for both the pregnant mother and the foetus to grow healthily. These are supplements to an originally balanced and nutritious diet and cannot be the sole source of nutrition ever.
3. Omega 3
Omega 3 is one of the essential fatty acids that are vital in the journey of pregnancy. There are a number of supplement sources that can provide you with omega-3 nutrition, but the most popular and safe is cod liver oil. It has been observed scientifically that cod liver oil assists in brain development and growth right in the foetal stage and is known to make the baby smart in the life to come. The acids in the oil such as DHA and EPA are known to maintain low levels of mental stress in the mother and cope with post-pregnancy depression, too.
4. Vitamin D3
With the current indoor-oriented lifestyle, most of us are deficient in vitamin D3 due to reduced exposure to the morning sun and a diet that does not focus on vitamin D at all. Vitamin D3 is extremely important in having a good and healthy bone structure, which is formed only by absorbing calcium and phosphorous in the body. Beyond bones, it further improves immunity, cell growth, muscles, and a lot more. In pregnancy, vitamin D3 helps in avoiding premature labour, gestational diabetes and other infections. The child, too, gains a good bone mass making him healthier ahead in life. Consuming Vitamin D3 in the right quantities is essential too, without overdoing it.
5. Calcium
Synonymous with bone growth and teeth strength, calcium is also responsible for improving blood clotting mechanisms and prevention of high blood pressure. The foetus requires a lot of calcium to develop the baby’s bones. In case the requirement falls short, it will start absorbing it from the mother’s bones causing further complications later on, such as leg cramps during pregnancy. It’s best to take a calcium supplement in pregnancy on an empty stomach since it absorbs into the body easily and quickly.
6. Magnesium
Magnesium is synonymous with one of the most important requirements during pregnancy Sleep. The right dose of magnesium helps reduce cramping of legs and provides a good amount of sleep, which is directly related to the production of breastmilk in the mother. Certain calcium supplements may or may not have magnesium present in them already.
7. Coconut Oil
Combining good saturated fat with lauric acid, this is a double whopper that provides nutrients to both the mother and the baby simultaneously. On one hand, it helps develop the fat stores in your body necessary for pregnancy and breastfeeding, while maintaining good energy levels. On the other hand, it also builds antiviral and antibacterial properties in the mother’s milk that are extremely crucial in building immunity in the baby.
8. Probiotics
Not all bacteria is bad. There are some good bacteria that need to be present in your gut in the right amount. These bacteria are essential in fighting off illnesses and keeping the digestive process going well. Babies do not have any bacteria when they are born and their first exposure to it is while they are emerging from the birth canal. Therefore, it is essential to have these good bacteria present in the right quantity, in the gut as well as in the breastmilk. As with all supplements, choose probiotics carefully by reading their genus and strains.
Which Supplements to Avoid When Pregnant?
Apart from the list of supplements that are beneficial for pregnancy, there are certain that should definitely be avoided. Many unsafe herbal supplements during pregnancy need to be avoided completely since they may cause complications further.
1. Vitamin A
Yes, vitamin A is one of the vital nutrients that are necessary during pregnancy. The development of the baby’s eyes and their immunity function relies heavily on it. However, vitamin A consumed in excess can be more harmful than useful. The solubility of vitamin A in the fat results in the liver storing large amounts of it within itself. This storage starts getting toxic and can damage the liver. It could also be the reason for various birth defects in the baby. Most multivitamins and healthy diets have a good quantity of vitamin A in them. Therefore, using supplements for it is generally not advised.
2. Vitamin E
This vitamin too is extremely important in ensuring that many bodily processes function smoothly. Moreover, some crucial ones such as the functioning of the immunity and gene expression rely on it, too. But supplementing it additionally with external sources is ill-advised. Such supplementation barely has any positive effects on the mother or her baby but is known to aggravate pain in the abdomen as well as rupture the amniotic sack inside the mother prematurely.
3. Black Cohosh
Many people advise using the black cohosh plant for a large variety of reasons. Most of them revolve around control of hot flashes as well as relief from menstrual cramps. But, black cohosh is a known factor in causing liver damage in people. Moreover, in case of pregnant women, there is a possibility of black cohosh resulting in contractions of the uterus that could trigger premature labour.
4. Goldenseal
This plant is rather well known to be a part of people’s diets as a supplement that takes care of infections in the respiratory tract, as well as relief from diarrhoea. However, there are doubts about its side effects on pregnancy. The goldenseal plant is known to have a substance called berberine. This has been single-handedly responsible for causing extreme cases of jaundice in babies, as well as causing a rare brain-damaging condition termed kernicterus which is known to be fatal.
5. Dong Quai
Dong Quai is one of those exotic roots that has been used by people since a thousand years ago. It is quite popular in China with their traditional medicinal treatments. This, too, has been known to bring relief from menstrual cramps as well as control high blood pressure to a great degree, although conclusive proof for the same has not been obtained. However, taking this herbal supplement during pregnancy may cause stimulation in the uterus resulting in contractions, that could lead to an unfortunate miscarriage.
6. Yohimbe
This supplement hails from the far away land of Africa. It is said to be derived from the bark of a tree that is native to the continent. A popular constituent in a number of herbal remedies of the area, it is rumoured to treat conditions of erectile dysfunction as well as reduce obesity in people. However, for pregnant women, this is absolutely a strict no-no since this herb is highly known to have adverse effects on the body such as increasing blood pressure, triggering heart attacks and even seizures.
7. Multiple Others
Apart from the ones mentioned above, there are many other herbal supplements that are termed as being extremely helpful during pregnancy but are not completely safe for consumption. Some of them are - saw palmetto, tansy, red clover, angelica, yarrow, wormwood, blue cohosh, pennyroyal, ephedra, mugwort, and many more.
A healthy life and a nutritional diet have to be at the apex of all factors during pregnancy without a doubt. Certain supplements are absolutely necessary and beneficial for good growth, but every supplement is not. These are meant as a support system to the existing diet and should not be completely relied on. A good lifestyle, exercise, meditation, relaxation, deep sleep, and healthy food cannot be beaten by consumption of a few supplements. As with anything out of the ordinary, it is good to run them by your doctor and get their professional opinion specific to your case so that you always stay safe and healthy no matter what.
Also read: Guide To Prenatal Vitamins During Pregnancy Read more
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Pregnant lady’s body shows whether it’s boy or girl: Fact or myth
Like new generation’s conceiving mom, I wanted a healthy baby irrespective of its gender. But was alsocurious to know , what I was nurturingin my womb. Since we live in India, neither sex determination is allowed nor we can have sexrevealingparties.
So like all reading my article ,out of inquisitiveness, I also googled the old wives’ tales to know whether it is a boy or girl. And here I will share what old tales andmy body signalled me about the sex of my child.
1. Morning sickness : I started having nauseaand vomitings right from the secondmonth of conceiving . I had so much problem that myweight decreased from 64 to 61 Kg which signalled that I was going to have a princess .
2. Active or Clumpsy : I was active throughtout my pregnancy . Never felt tired and was always in happy mood . This again means it’s agirl.
3. Craving: I ate too much jalebis in my whole pregnancy. Almost every third day , I used to crave for sweets. My mother-in - law also predictedthat I am going to have a daughter after seeing my taste.
4. Heartburn : I used to have so much heartburn during my third trimister that I used to lie down with two pillows under my head.So nowI was expecting a rupenzel with longblack hair like me.
5. Beauty : It is said that babygirl steals mother’s beauty and same happened , pimples, mask of pregnancy on my face.
6. Carrying high or low: My tummy buldge was not near the rib cage , it was somewhat down which indicates towards baby boy.The only sign of having a boy.
7. Lineof nigra:I had a darkbrown line from my belly button to pubic area and not extended towards the ribs. By this time , I was sure and started shopping pink dresses.
By this time , most of you also might have made out about the gender of your baby after reading these . But I want to share that these signs didn’t tuned out true for me.I had a first glimpse of my baby boy in pink clothes and pink blanket.So
I will request all of you to read all this just for theenjoyment purpose and not toshop pink like me.
Happy and healthy pregnancy to all the mothers!!! Read more
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Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 9 months
6 hours ago
Q. i missed my periods 3 days ago today I checked then this result come. but when I checked yesterday afternoon the result is the second attachment . why this is happening I am confused 😕
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
6 hours ago
A. you had to wait few days this can be delayed periods. 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 in 9 months
6 hours ago
Q. i missed my periods on 5 my result is attached but when I checked in the yesterday afternoon it was little bit dark why this is happening and what to do
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
6 hours ago
A. at present it is negative please wait few more days. 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
3 hours ago
Q. Hi, I am 35 weeks pregnant, and have AFI-24.3 and 2cm cervix length. What should I do to reduce AFI?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. AFI little bit more needs intervention medically. 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 Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
33 mins ago
Q. Hey everyone! I hope you're all staying safe under the sun. ☀️ I've been struggling to find a sunscreen that doesn't leave me feeling like a came out after bath by midday. Any recommendations for a sweat-resistant sunscreen that actually works?
Read moreDr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
22 mins ago
A. For the query asked needs consultation with doctor for proper guidance so it is better that the doctor will guihde you the correct way .
Online consultation can also be taken and the expert will give you the proper answeur .
Dr Disha Patel has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
23 mins ago
Q. I am 35 weeks pregnant. Can water breaks start now also? How do I know that my water is breaking?
Dr Disha Patel
Ayurvedic Physician
2 mins ago
A. dear mom.
yes can happens, in few circumstances.
for further i firmation n detsils it is good to talk to your treating gynec ..heor she will guide you.
t. c
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