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Foot Massage during Pregnancy
Pregnancy not only causes an increase in the size of your tummy, but your legs and feet may undergo swelling as well. Every pregnant woman knows the ache that accompanies the swelling, which can get quite intense at times. Pressing down on pressure points might bring some relief, but a gentle massage will sound so relaxing that getting one might be too good to resist. But does it have any benefits? Or are there more risks? Let’s find out.
Is a Foot Massage Safe During Pregnancy?
Many women wish to opt for a pedicure foot massage while pregnant and get relief from the pain, especially after knowing that there are specific massages meant for pregnant women. However, these have not been approved by any medical authority, so their benefits cannot be fully determined. Many spas do not accept pregnant women, and many doctors avoid recommending a massage therapist as well.
But a well-experienced professional performing the right kind of pregnancy massage will be safe for the mother as well as bring the necessary benefits along with it. These professionals undertake special training and certification and have the right knowledge of where to massage and which areas to avoid.
What Are the Benefits of a Pregnancy Foot Massage?
There are many benefits of a foot massage during pregnancy. Some of those are:
The fluid retention in a pregnant woman is higher than usual. This is further accompanied by vein compression since the growth of the uterus applies pressure on them. By undergoing a foot massage, these swellings can be relieved, and the circulation can be aided to bring about a relaxing feeling.
It has been observed that a foot massage done properly on a daily basis can help reduce the swelling of the leg by a considerable amount.
The process of the massage induces a calm and peaceful feeling and helps in restoring mental balance. This is essential for first-time mothers as the stress and anxiety of the pregnancy can get in the way of having a healthy delivery.
For mothers who show signs of depression and are on medication, undertaking regular massages can help boost their mood. It may also help in the delivery of a healthy baby.
The foot massage is felt by the foetus, too, and the baby tends to respond to it by moving inside the womb. This helps in strengthening the bond between the mother and child and bring about non-verbal communication.
Proper Way to Perform a Foot Massage While Pregnant
Undergoing a foot massage during the third trimester of your pregnancy can bring the right benefits when done correctly. Using the right massage oil and massage technique is just as necessary. Here are a few steps your partner or caretaker can follow to perform a foot massage properly.
The first step is to apply a good amount of oil to the pregnant woman’s feet and the partner’s hands. This will make it easier to massage the feet.
Beginning from the feet, start massaging from the toes to the ankle while applying pressure. Make sure the partner’s grip isn’t too firm. Keep massaging the feet for about 5-8 minutes.
Once that is done, move upwards from the ankle. Focus on the section from the ankle to the knee and begin massaging it. Make sure to use both hands to cover as much area of the legs and the calves as possible. Keep the pressure steady for both hands and maintain a pace of broad strokes, right from the ankle up to the knee in a single, non-stop motion. Continue doing this for about 10 minutes or so.
Once that is done, move on to the final stage. Now, focus on the region from the knee up to the thigh. Rub a little more oil if needed to keep the area lubricated. Be a little careful in this region but maintain a firm, steady pressure. The thigh has a larger surface area, so it is best to use two hands and alternately massage the lateral sections and then the vertical ones. This ensures you cover the entire leg and bring total relief. Continue doing this for 5-8 minutes. Then take a break before moving to the other leg.
What Are the Risks of Getting a Foot Massage During Pregnancy?
The relief from a foot massage is immense, but there are certain risks associated with foot massages that include but are not limited to inducing labour during pregnancy. Some major points that need to kept in mind are:
1. Risk of Pre-eclampsia
In certain cases, your legs might suddenly swell a lot more than before and lead to a rise in blood pressure as well. This condition is termed as preeclampsia, and it can have severe repercussions. Women who face this condition generally experience it in the last stages of pregnancy, primarily when the weight gain has become tremendous. Many bouts of headache begin to occur, blood pressure shoots through the roof, oedema starts happening, and vision begins to be disturbed.
In cases of vomiting, nausea, or where there is a risk of placental abruption (leading to separation of placenta and uterus), a foot massage should be undertaken only if your doctor agrees or it should be avoided altogether.
2. DVT
Also known as deep vein thrombosis, this is generally a result of a clot formation. Mostly observed in legs, this blood clot occurs in one of the veins located deep within the leg, or even several of them. This causes the legs to swell up quite a lot, accompanied by intense pain. Many women face this only in one leg, making it easy to diagnose it.
In such a case, a foot massage can be life-threatening. This is because any pressure on the veins could cause the blood clot to loosen from the vein walls and begin to travel through the circulatory system. On reaching the lungs, this clot could block the flow of blood and lead to various complications, including an embolism.
3. Pitting Oedema
Swelling that occurs during pregnancy is also known as oedema. This swelling is not out of the ordinary since it is usually a result of an increase in the size of the uterus as well as hormonal changes. Both of these begin to affect the veins and obstruct normal blood circulation. This is why a massage brings relief since it aids the circulation by reducing the swelling.
But, if the swelling tends to disappear temporarily when pressure is applied, this is usually a sign of pitting oedema. This needs to be examined by the doctor immediately as it could signify the presence of DVT or preeclampsia.
Areas That Should Be Avoided While Performing the Massage
There are three major areas of the foot that need to be avoided while giving a foot massage to a pregnant woman.
SP6 Acupressure Point: Located on the inner ankle area above the inner ankle bone, this pressure point stimulates the lower abdomen, which may not be beneficial for a pregnant woman.
Urinary Bladder 60: Located behind the ankle bone on the outside, between the Achilles tendon and the main bone, this point is used primarily during labour to provide relief from pain. Therefore, take extra precaution to stay away from it.
Urinary Bladder 67: Located on the baby toe’s corner near the toenail, it is a popular acupressure point to stimulate contractions and get the baby in the position for delivery.
Foot massage is quite a wonderful way to get the necessary relaxation you need during pregnancy. Opting for a reflexology foot massage while pregnant can also be done, ensuring the areas of risk are avoided and light pressure is used. A regular foot massage can help maintain a good mental and physical balance and relieve the stress of pregnancy, keeping you and your baby happy.
Also Read: Perineal Massage during Pregnancy Read more
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6 Must Knows About Formula Feeding Your Baby
Doctors recommend exclusive breastfeeding for babies till the minimum age of 6 months. Breast milk provides the right nutrients and antibodies to strengthen your baby's immune system as well. However, due to various reasons, mothers may sometimes need to opt out of breastfeeding their little ones. In such cases, the ideal alternative is infant formula. Let's understand more about infant formula and formula feeding with these must-know guidelines below. This formula feeding guide will help ensure that your baby gets complete nutrition to grow and develop normally.
Although it is highly recommended that a baby be exclusively breastfed for the initial few months of his life, there are instances where a mother may need to feed formula milk. She may be suffering from poor milk supply, have personal problems, or need to get back to work. She may even be advised by a professional health expert to introduce or supplement with formula feeds in the infant's diet. This can happen if the baby is not gaining enough weight or when there are problems with bowel movements.
Here are 6 extremely crucial points one should keep in mind while feeding formula to babies.
Easy-to-Follow Formula Feeding Guide
Note: Always make sure you consult a paediatrician and weigh the formula feeding pros and cons carefully before starting with it. Having said that, here are few easy tips to remember that will ensure the little one is well-fed and healthy.
1. Always Toss Away The Leftover Formula In The Bottle
Your baby may drink half of the formula in the bottle and you might save the remaining formula for his next feeding trying to ensure no wastage. However, you shouldn't do so. Bacteria that entered from your baby’s saliva into the remaining formula may multiply, so its better to toss away the leftover formula.
Tip: It’s preferable to give smaller or less quantity feedings to avoid wastage. You can feed more frequently if need be, going by your baby's hunger cues such as licking lips, opening his mouth, being restless, or crying. You can read about hunger cues in babies in detail here.
2. Baby’s Poop Turns Darker & Smellier Due To Formula - It's Normal
Formula fed baby’s poop is usually darker in colour and firmer than breast fed baby’s poop. Also, poop of formula fed infant smells stronger than that of a breast fed infant. There is nothing to worry about; this is totally normal and happens due to the difference in composition between breastmilk and formula milk. However, if the baby's poop is either very runny or too hard, it indicates a problem. He may be suffering from dehydration, constipation or diarrhoea. See the paediatrician to diagnose the problem.
3. Formula-Fed Baby May Eat Less
Formula milk stays in the tummy of your baby for a long time, and it is more difficult to digest than breast milk. Also, it makes your infant feel full for several hours. So, your baby may eat lesser than breast fed baby. Also, your infant requires longer breaks between feedings. Plan his schedule accordingly.
4. It Is Not Mandatory To Warm Up Formula Before Feeding
Even if you feel like you must warm the formula milk and then provide the warmed milk to your baby, it is not necessary. Heating the formula milk does not increase nutrients or health benefits. Only the taste matters. Some babies like to have warm formula while some infants like cold formula or formula at room temperature. So, it is advisable to start giving room temperature warm formula to your little one and if he doesn’t like it then warm it up and feed it. However, make sure you do not heat it in a microwave. Doing this can affect the composition of the formula.
Another strict rule is to never reheat formula. Most formula milk brands forbid reheating formula as doing this can affect its composition and make it difficult to absorb for the baby. The standard shelf life of formula is 1.5 - 3 hours. If you have formula older than the given shelf life, do not use it.
5. Use Formula Feeding as a Method to Promote Family Bonding
Any family member, say father, grandparents, and siblings of the baby, can feed formula milk to your baby and share the pleasure of feeding the new member of your family. Thus, formula feeding promotes family bonding. Encourage loved ones to formula feed your baby when they are free. Only remember to choose the right bottle that matches your baby's age and needs. Instruct your family members to feed the baby in a suitable bottle-feeding position so the milk can go down properly. Holding the bottle with one hand at a 45-degree angle while supporting your baby in the other arm is a good option. Raise your baby's head slightly to prevent choking and ear infections.
There are multiple benefits of doing this. Your family members would love to cuddle your baby and feed him formula milk. Providing your baby such warmth and love also promotes his optimum brain development and bonding with the family.
6. Your Infant May Develop Allergic Reaction To Formula - Watch Out
Even though most infants digest formula easily, some babies may develop an allergic reaction to the cow’s milk protein content present in the formula. Baby’s bowel movements can tell you about the digestion of formula and whether your little one suffers from any allergic reaction due to formula.
If you find mucus or blood in bowels then it is a sign of allergy. Also, vomiting, skin rash, diarrhoea, and irritability are signs of allergy. Consult your doctor if you observe any such kind of allergic reaction, and your doctor may recommend an extra-hydrolyzed formula or formula prepared using soy. Read more
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Self Regulation of Emotions in Toddlers
Parents are often disappointed by the lack of control of their toddler on his or her emotions. However, studies prove that in a 3-year-old emotional development can take its own course of time. With a little support from parents, toddlers can achieve this in a better way.
Have you seen your toddler vent his anger on a child younger than him or on a pet? This generally happens because the child finds certain emotions extremely overwhelming and has no idea how to vent them. Giving a helping hand would help your tot learn self-regulation of emotions.
What is Emotional Regulation- The Underlying Meaning
This refers to one's ability to control his emotions in any given situation. The emotion could be anything from happiness to grief, excitement to fear. The way a child copes with these emotions in a circumstance without letting them overpower his thoughts is known as emotional regulation.
What are the Signs of Emotional Regulation in Toddlers?
Too many tantrums
Fighting with children of his age for no apparent reason
Not following instructions
Hitting and spitting at others to show disagreement
Worrying too much for inconsequential things
Becomes easily upset
Anxious
Socially withdrawn
Does not confide in you
How to Teach a Child to Control their Emotions
1. Setting the Right Example
Child psychologists believe that most of the toddlers who lack self-regulation, generally have parents who lack these skills too. So, before you start teaching self-regulation to your toddler, make sure that you know how to control your emotions also. If you yell at your child often or meltdown for no reason, there is no way you can teach controlling emotions to your tot. After all, what he sees is what he follows.
2. Lending your Ears
Most toddlers find it hard to regulate their feelings because they feel if they put them in words, their parents might not pay attention. So, one of the best emotional regulation strategies for children is to ensure you are all ears. Once your tot realises you pay attention to his feelings, he will find it easier to control his emotions.
3. Be More Accepting
When handling emotional regulation in toddlers, it's not possible that you would agree with all your child's feelings and emotions. However, blowing your top would just not help. Instead, try to be as patient as you can and explain to your child the outcome of his behaviour. Tell him that it's okay to feel that way at times and teach him the right way to cope with these emotions.
4. Keeping your Cool
It's important that you keep your cool when your toddler is undergoing an emotional meltdown. As long as he doesn't hurt himself or anyone else, just try to be patient and comfort him. This will make your tot feel safer and encourage him to confide in you. This is a great way of helping children learn to regulate their emotions.
Punishing your toddler for emotional breakdowns is not going to help. So, be compassionate and extend your support at all times. After all, if not you who else will your child expect comfort from? Read more
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5 Perfect Family Weekend Getaways Near Mumbai!
The drudgery of work can be tiring. Little wonder then that a short retreat from the bustle of Mumbai city can't be skipped. This break will revive your spirit and prepare you to tackle the week ahead. Go over the list of places near Mumbai for a weekend trip and get packing!
The proverbial city of dreams, Mumbai, has a heart that races faster than Usain Bolt's. You need to take a breather once in a while, and smell the roses along the way. A short weekend getaway close to Mumbai should be a quick fix to heal a tired body and mind. Get your husband and children to help you plan and set off!
5 Weekend Destinations Near Mumbai
1. Harihareshwar
If you're a sea person, you must visit Harihareshwar. This pristine and relatively secluded beach is around 110 kms from the main city. The beach provides a spectacular view of the Sahyadri hills, and the kids can play around in peace. If you're planning to visit this place around mid-February, do visit Velas – the host to the annual turtle festival. This offbeat place is for sure among the best weekend getaways near Mumbai.
2. Lonar Crater
This nondescript spot is situated in Maharashtra’s Buldana district. The lake was formed over 50,000 years ago as a result of a meteor impact. The depression is around 150 meters deep! You could always go trekking or visit the Daitya Sudan temple and Kamalija temple. History says the lake produces elements that make the production of soap and glass possible. Wow!
3. Malshej Ghat
If your children like adventure activities like hiking and trekking, this place is perfect for you. The beautiful landscape and picturesque beauty of the place is worth being in awe of. If you are lucky, you will be able to spot a few pink flamingos during a monsoon visit. The hills are home to Buddhist caves that reportedly date back to the 3rd century. Apart from its rich history, the ghat has several waterfalls. De-stress takes on a whole new meaning here!
4. Jawhar
This quaint hill station is located at an altitude of 518m. It is a tourist delight with a number of wonderful attractions. Sunset point, Dabhosa waterfalls, Kalmandvi waterfalls, and the famous Hanuman point are just some of the go-to places here - especially for some romantic, quiet time with your man. If you are a buff, you can also set your sights on famous Warli paintings.
5. Khodala
The wild camp resort at Khodala is perfect for nature lovers. The lush green mountains, the monsoon rain, and the spectacular waterfalls all make for a great vacation spot. There are quite a few hotels in the areas that offer clean rooms. The local food will not be very different from what you are used to eating. This is definitely among the best places to visit around Mumbai if you're looking for a chilled out option.
For these weekend getaways from Mumbai, all you need is a plan, a place to stay and a minimal budget. The change and relaxation will refresh you and your family for the week ahead. Read more
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5 Fashion Tips for Moms for the Festive Season
Festivals make our mundane routine exciting, but if you are a mother, your excited routine also includes extra work and stress. And only after joining the mom brigade did I realise how often we mommies put ourselves on the backseat and try to find our source of happiness in the smiles of our near and dear ones.
This time for once, I am going to put a stop to it. I am going to dress up. Not for the world but for myself. And to help you all do the same here are my top 5 do's - try these for a fashionable look.
1. Invest in a Punjabi Jutti
Brands usually launch new collection during the festive season and even offer a major discount on their old collection of footwear. Do we mums need any other reason to indulge in shopping? Punjabi juttis are chic, festive, and flat. So even if you are running around carrying your child, this pair of footwear will add oomph to your style. So, this is a must-buy!
2. Anarkali
Not all new mums get back their pre-pregnancy look after giving birth to their child, some women like me don't shed all those extra kilos even after years of becoming a mom. So the best thing to do is camouflage. Hide all the cellulite under that flowy garment. An Anarkali dress looks festive in itself no matter which fabric or accessories you choose. So, go ahead and buy an Anarkali for a festive occasion.
3. Jewellery
Dig that treasure trove out. Vintage is the new black, if you have all those heavy pieces lying in your dresser, now is the time to show them the light of the day. From big jhumkas to elaborate neck pieces, don't shy away to flaunt them on a festive occasion.
4. Make Up
If you believe in minimalistic makeup, then so be it. Invest in a good Kohl/kajal and highlight those sensuous eyes. Also if you are not a regular when it comes to makeup here is a tip for you. Apply a tinge of your lipstick to your cheeks and rub it well. This way your lipstick acts as a blush.
5. Twinning
Twinning for this special occasion will make you feel in sync with the family and the festivities. Twin with your spouse or your child. But make sure you put in as much effort for yourself as you do for others in your family.
Festivals give us a chance to enjoy with our family, so spend time with your near and dear ones and stay happy. Don't stress yourself. A smile is the best accessory you can wear every day and it comes for free. So smile often, dress up, look the best of you and enjoy!
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
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert
Can we have sex during pregnancy and is it safe?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. okay no problem if you don't have any risk factors ko. 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
Trying To Conceive
4 hours ago
Q. Dr meri baby 12 month running hai uska weight 6 kg hai uska growth nahi ho pa Raha hai to kya kare or over active hai
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. ok see c. if the baby is not having proper height and weight it means that baby is having failure to thrive baby needs investigations like TSH and other related test to find out the reason
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. mere twins baby hai boy nd girl one month 8 days when I check eye and ear which month
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. For the query asked needs consultation with doctor for proper guidance so it is better that the doctor will guide you the correct way .
Online consultation can also be taken jjand the expert will give you the proper answer .
Ankita Mehta has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. is white discharge in 8th month normal?
Ankita Mehta
Mom of a 8 yr 7 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. hi
yes
but if it is too thick or clear like water,if there other symptoms like itching, irritation, redness,foul smell from vagina, please visit your gynecologist
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. My son is 5 months old is suffering from cough..what to do?
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. give nasal saline drops every few hourly to the child in the nasal cavity.
try to prevent temperature variations around the child
you can go for indirect steam inhalation which will again help in decreasing both cough and cold
continue the regular diet of the child
if there is no improvement in few days then meet your doctoru
for fever and pain give paracetamol.u
anti-cold medicines at this age have got side effects so can be given only after medical consultation.
POOJA KOTHARI has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
2 hours ago
Q. hi. in Feb my period was last and I did pregnancy test in March its positive results but my belly is not being bigger
POOJA KOTHARI
Mom of a 7 yr 1 m old boy
1 hour ago
A. Typically, your bump becomes noticeable during your second trimester. Between 16-20 weeks, your body will start showing your baby's growth. For some women, their bump may not be noticeable until the end of the second trimester and even into the third trimester. The second trimester starts in the fourth month.
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