Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Videos you might be interested in
Suggested for you
Can You Consume Maca During Pregnancy?
Maca root is popularly known for improving fertility when consumed as a supplement while trying to conceive. Maca has adaptogenic properties, which affect the key hormones in both women and men. Its unique properties boost fertility and balance hormones, apart from providing other health benefits. According to the opinion of some health professionals, it is completely safe to be consumed by pregnant women.
What is Maca?
Maca is a plant that has gained tremendous popularity in recent times. Maca root, which is edible, exists in several colours. The root is dried and consumed in powder form. It is also available in liquid and capsule form. It can be consumed by adding in oatmeal, smoothies, or sweet treats. Maca is nutritious and rich in carbs, fibre, and protein, along with being a good source of Vitamin C, iron, and copper.
Is Consuming Maca During Pregnancy Safe?
Whether the consumption of maca root during pregnancy is safe or not is still unclear to many. People are in doubt if it is beneficial during pregnancy or not. The prenatal vitamins present in it are important for expectant mothers. It helps in balancing hormones in the initial period of pregnancy. Consumption of maca also improves both stamina and energy and provides iodine and iron to the body. However, one must always consult a doctor before consuming this supplement, to have a safe pregnancy.
Health Benefits of Consuming Maca during Pregnancy
Maca has acquired a well-deserved status of superfood. It contains a host of micronutrients and is jam-packed with antioxidants which in turn prove beneficial. Some of the benefits are given below:
1. Enhances mood, energy, and memory
Maca positively impacts stamina and energy. It helps the body cope better with stress and maintain high energy levels. The high antioxidant content in maca also improves memory and focus.
2. Helps Balance Estrogen Levels
Maca root balances the hormone level and keeps control over the oestrogen level in the body. It is the primary female sex hormone which regulates the reproductive system.
Are There Any Risks of Consuming Maca in Pregnancy?
Every edible item has its share of benefits and risks. Problems like insomnia, heartburn, skin problems, headaches and an increase in heart rate are some risks involved in consuming maca. However, maca can be consumed in case of PCOS pregnancy. Maca powder during pregnancy can help treat PCOS.
Maca is surely an excellent superfood to add to your diet as a supplement during pregnancy. It naturally boosts fertility and balances hormones. However, keep its side effects in view and consult a doctor before making a decision on whether to consume it during pregnancy or not.
Also Read: Usage of Olive Oil during Pregnancy Read more
Suggested for you
How to Keep Your Baby Cool and Hydrated in Summers
I get a lot of new mothers who keep on asking me how to keep their babies cool and hydrated during the harsh summers especially when they can't give water to their babies who are below 6 months of age. So I have made a list of things you can do to keep your babies happy and hydrated this summer.
Kids Below 6 Months of Age
Please avoid taking your below 6 months baby out in the sun as much as possible. Also if it is not possible to avoid travelling with your baby then please choose the time of early morning or evening.
If you need to travel with your baby then please choose a good brand sunscreen and applied very lightly on the baby.
If you are taking your baby out then please make sure to cover your baby with full clothes but please choose a very breathable material to avoid excessive sweating and always make sure that your baby wears wide brimmed hat.
Breastfeed baby on demand as during summers baby will require more of breastfeed to compensate for the loss of water. Similarly for the bottle feed don't be alarmed if your baby will require more of feed.
Even in summers don't use cold water for bathing your baby, room temperature water is fine. Also if possible try giving your baby a sponge bath at least two times a day specially at night apart from the regular bath of morning.
No matter how convenient disposable diaper please try to use cloth diapers as much as possible during summers and even if you are using disposable ones don't forget to give your baby some breathing time in between diaper change to prevent any rashes.
Place the baby's crib or bassinet in the cool part of the house to ensure that baby doesn't get heat stroke from summer heat.
Since before 6 months of age most of the babies are purely dependent on breastfeed mothers should remember to drink plenty of water to ensure that mum as well as baby keep well hydrated.
Kids Above 6 Months of Age
Do keep your babies inside from the peak time of summer heat that is from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. and if you baby has to go out at that time please make sure to carry an umbrella.
While your baby's out in summers don't forget to cover him properly in sunscreen to prevent sunburn. Even if your baby is going out for swimming or waterplay please apply a waterproof sunscreen.
For babies above 6 months old apart from water try giving them fruit juices coconut water homemade frozen lollies and lots of fruits and salad to keep the hydration level up.
Get an inflatable pool for babies to enjoy in water during summers but never leave your baby unattended in water anytime.
Try including food items like ragi, barley, bajra, coriander, fennel and turmeric as they have cooling nature which helps baby to maintain our body temperature during summers.
General Ideas and Tips
Keep your child's room very well ventilated and cool using fans or AC but make sure that your baby is never in the direct flow of air.
Use very simple and breathable material nightwear for babies but if your baby is sleeping in AC then please make sure to use a full sleeve night suit.
You can definitely give your baby a massage during summers. In fact a proper baby massage is very necessary no matter the season but please be careful in choosing light oils like olive and coconut during summers. Also make sure to wash off the oil properly so as to to prevent clogging of pores.
Try using cotton or other breathable materials and bedsheets and avoid using synthetic material as they give off heat which make sleeping uncomfortable.
Never ever leave your baby in a car as car tends to heat up easily and can cause your baby to fall sick. Even with the AC on never leave your baby in cars alone.
If you are going for outing try taking your baby to well ventilated and cool places which are less crowded.
Buy a cover for your car seat and prams as their plastic and metal parts can get heat up with the sun heat and can cause burns.
Even for babywearing choose the slings which are made of light and breathable material.
For applying powder just put some powder on your hand and then apply it on your babies skin folds to prevent rashes and over applying of powder which can cause clogging of pores.
Summer brings with it problem of mosquitoes and bugs never forget to cover your babies with good mosquito repellent before going out. Also dress babies in full sleeve clothes to prevent mosquito bites.
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
Suggested for you
Does Birth Control Affect Your Fertility Later in Life?
Considering that you've spent years trying to ensure that you didn't get pregnant, it's natural to be a little concerned regarding your chances of conception when it's time to start a family, and you may be apprehensive of the result of using birth control for years. There are a lot of half-baked truths floating around - you may receive contradictory answers to how contraceptives like the IUD, the pill, and Depo-Provera influence fertility. But the writing on the wall reveals that right after you stop birth control methods, your fertility will return to the state it was in before, as if you were never on birth control. However, there are a few exceptions.
Can Birth Control Cause Infertility?
Research shows that birth control does not cause infertility. However, some myths around birth control causing infertility do exist. Some women can experience certain postponement in restarting ovulation and periods following continued birth control use. It can take a few months for the menses to resume after discontinuing birth control. When a woman is using the pill for some time, the added hormones can cover ovulatory issues while affectedly providing her menstrual cycle. Alterations in the body owing to increased weight or stress which can impact a woman’s menstrual cycle often get masked by pill use.
Furthermore, the level of fertility usually depends on several factors which may not be related to using birth control. For instance, you are not the same age you were when you started the birth control pill - if you were 20 then and are 30 now, the likelihood of getting pregnant may have reduced owing to your age.
It is true that many hormonal contraceptive methods can have risks. However, infertility may not feature as one of them. Several studies suggest that your chances of conception after stopping birth control are as high or low as that of a woman who never used any. There can be a small wait period between the time you discontinue birth control and the return of fertility, which is generally short.
Having said that, new evidence in the form of smaller studies has emerged that raise alarms regarding longstanding risks to contraceptives for some women. However, you may want to take this research with a pinch of salt.
1. Hormonal Birth Control
Some of the common hormonal birth control methods include:
Birth Control Pills
The oral contraceptives depend on hormones oestrogen and progesterone (some have both, while others contain only progesterone) to stop pregnancy.
How Does it Affect Fertility
The pill is a popular method of birth control. Research indicates that both short-term as well as long-term users of the pill can experience a brief delay in fertility as compared to users who discontinue barrier contraceptives like diaphragms or condoms. But after the temporary wait spell, the monthly fertility odds are similar to those of females ending other means of birth control. About 20 per cent users achieved pregnancy in their initial cycle after stopping the pill, and 80 per cent within a year or so.
Interestingly, research reveals that the long-term use of the pill can enhance the possibility of pregnancy. Women who used the pill for about five to six years were found to be more fertile as compared to those who used them for merely two years. But there is a contrasting theory which states that hormonal contraceptive like the pill can mess up fertility when used for a very long time (10 years or more). Such an extended use can thin a woman’s endometrium lining of the uterus which may impact implantation. In other words, she can conceive but may not be able to maintain the pregnancy.
IUD
Intrauterine Device or IUD is a tiny piece of T-shaped plastic. It releases a small quantity of hormone progestin into the body which is very much like the hormone progesterone that a woman’s body naturally produces. Progestin blocks the sperm cells from reaching the eggs by thickening the mucus on the cervix. Also, it prevents eggs from leaving the ovaries thus deterring pregnancy.
How Does it Affect Fertility
Studies reveal that non-IUD users and IUD users have comparable pregnancy rates. In most cases, normal fertility is re-established within a few months after removal of IUD with maximum women conceiving in a year. The International Journal Of Women’s Health arrived at a parallel conclusion in 2009. Its report stated the contraceptive effects of IUD reversed soon after elimination of the device.
Vaginal Ring
The vaginal ring (NuvaRing) is a transparent, soft ring implanted into the vagina which delivers a measured release of hormones progesterone and oestrogen in the body for about three weeks. It stops the release of eggs every month, thickens cervical mucus, thins the womb lining to prevent pregnancy.
How Does it Affect Fertility
Not much is known about the influence of NuvaRing on fertility. The few studies conducted in this regard point to a woman’s capability to instantly ovulate though not necessarily conceive after doing away with the NuvaRing. The most investigation is based on statistics obtained from studies done a long time back.
2. Non-Hormonal Birth Control
Following are the hormone-free means of birth control:
Tubal Ligation
Tubectomy or tubal ligation is a surgical procedure wherein the fallopian tubes of a woman are sealed, cut or clipped which hinders eggs from travelling to the uterus for embedding. It is a one-time, permanent method of birth control. Another technique of prohibiting conception is tubal implant which involves insertion of a tiny, spring-like coil into the fallopian tubes to block them.
How Does it Affect Fertility
Both the methods are irreversible, which means a woman is not likely to conceive again.
Fertility Awareness Methods
Such methods comprise natural techniques of birth control such as tracking the menstrual cycle, taking the body temperature, observing the cervical mucus to predict ovulation. A couple may abstain from having intercourse on days when a woman is most fertile or ovulating.
How Does it Affect Fertility
Fertility awareness methods do not encompass medical interventions or variables like a foreign object or added hormones. They solely rely on natural practices. Therefore it is highly unlikely that they bear any risk to fertility.
Copper IUD
The copper IUD or ParaGard is a T-shaped device formed of copper and plastic inserted into the uterus. It releases copper ions that are toxic for the sperm prohibiting them from reaching the eggs.
How Does it Affect Fertility
Copper IUD can be removed any time, thus giving you a quicker return to normal fertility. Studies disclose copper IUD users who discontinue its use as they desired pregnancy and non-IUD users, both displayed comparable pregnancy rates. Also, there was no noticeable variation in the total time taken by women from both the groups to get pregnant.
Barrier Methods
Barrier methods include the use of diaphragms, sponges, cervical caps, condoms which physically stop the sperm from fertilising with the egg.
How Does it Affect Fertility
In the case of barrier methods, you can regain your fertility the moment you don’t use them. They work merely for the time they are in the body. Condoms can help the cause of fertility by protecting a couple against STDs (Sexually Transmitted Diseases) like gonorrhoea, chlamydia which may cause infertility. Although your doctor may advise you to go in for a complete check-up like basic blood tests, start vitamin supplements, discuss lifestyle changes like lose weight, quit smoking if required to increase the odds of conception.
Spermicide
People generally use spermicide along with one of the barrier methods to intensify the effectiveness against pregnancy. Spermicide contains Nonoxynol-9, a chemical that not only blocks sperm but also slows or kills them before they can reach the egg. It commonly comes as a foam, cream or gel.
How Does it Affect Fertility
Nonoxynol-9 can erode the cell membranes which can enhance the risk of sexually transmitted infections and genital lesions. It can also cause changes in the vaginal bacterial flora which may result in the occurrence of vaginosis or other microbiome imbalances. It can have an adverse effect on sperm health as well as irreversible and permanent damage thereby affecting fertility. But doctors continue to be confused about this issue. It is yet to be established by substantial medical research. However, medical professionals do agree on the potentially harmful effect of lubricants on sperm health which can jeopardise a couple’s fertility.
Every woman’s body is different. It may respond differently to birth control and can work diversely to regain health after birth control to become pregnant naturally. The truth of the matter remains that several mechanisms in medicine still need to be explored to identify how exactly birth control can impact a woman’s fertility. A lot of dedicated and detailed research is required to recognise the full scope and degree by which different means of birth control are likely to affect fertility.
Also Read:
Birth Control Pills Intake before IVF Treatment
Is It Normal to Have Brown Discharge while on Birth Control Pills? Read more
Suggested for you
First Meeting With My Bundle Of Joy In This Tough Situation
Its saturday 8th of august and we have an appointment with our gynaecologist for regular checkup, I am in my 38th week of pregnancy.
Doctor checked the heart beats of the baby and told me everything is normal and come back after 7 days for regular checkup. That day I was not feeling well, my stomach and back is paining a lot still we travelled 10km for the checkup. When I came back to home we had luch and I fall asleep when I woke up its already 7pm. I got fresh and we all had dinner, while doing dinner I trigger pain after taking a walk I walked to bed and around 12am my labour pain has started, due to coronavirus situation there is shortage of beds in hospital. We wait till morning 6am and then rushed to hospital withing 2 hours I delivered a cute little baby boy. But hospital allowed only one person with the patient there I felt discomfort as only my mother is with me, my father and my husband is standing outside the hospital in the rain. After very next day doctor has gave us discharge from the hospital. But I was facing problem in breastfeeding, its rainy season and due to coronavirus situation hospitals are not allowing only limited patients, still we went to the doctor when my baby wad only 15 days old. And its really very tough situation to take your baby to the hospital because I am not giving formula milk to the baby so we have to take him with me. The best thing was my husband is with in every situation. After all the problems when my husband and I saw our bundle of joy we forgot all the problems and thought that whatever we have gone through in this situation everything is worth. Read more
Suggested for you
Antenatal Classes: Preparing for Labour, Birth & Early Parenthood
'What are antenatal classes and do I really need them?' is a question that many pregnant women ask. The time from conceiving leading up to delivery and the first few weeks afterwards are filled with new experiences and challenges. Parents have many doubts and fears ranging from 'will a spinal epidural be painful' to 'how do I position my hands to pick my baby up from his/her bed'. Antenatal classes help parents-to-be prepare for this time with answers, checklists, exercise programs and frequently, a support system that makes parenthood a time of joy and accomplishment.
What are Antenatal-Classes?
Antenatal or prenatal classes help you prepare for childbirth and teach you how to look after and feed your baby. These classes help you to stay healthy, confident and well informed during your pregnancy and the period following that as well. You are walked through each step that can be expected for the next few months. You learn about the available labour and birth options and formulate a birth plan for yourself. These classes also teach exercises and breathing techniques to help you through labour. Not only does a prenatal class help partners learn how to deal with changes and brief them about coping mechanisms but also help make new friends with other moms and dads who are also expecting the arrival of their bub soon. This helps parents not feel isolated and have experiences to share with someone who is also perhaps going through the same situations.
Prenatal classes cover the physical and emotional preparation for labour and childbirth. Pregnant women and their labour partners attend sessions that focus on ways to make their pregnancy happier and less chaotic. These classes generally cover
Exercise, yoga, and breathing techniques to maintain flexibility and build up stamina.
Formulating a diet and an eating plan which optimises weight gain and good nutrition.
Information about eating do's and don’ts during pregnancy.
Using music and relaxation techniques to deal with the fears of childbirth and parenthood.
Bonding with your baby with music and reading.
Learning tried and tested simple home remedies for common problems like acid reflux, back pain and mood swings.
Partners are coached on how they can support their spouse by talking through issues, staying calm and staying organised.
Labour classes focus on calming both parents-to-be. This is achieved by talking through their fears and counselling them towards birth plans which accommodate these concerns and stress management is also emphasised upon. These classes also include group and practical sessions that help mothers-to-be feel less isolated, while their labour partner learns to be supportive and calm. These group sessions are usually informal and fun to help mothers-to-be bond with their partners and other parents. These bonds often help parents through the highs and lows of the first few months with a baby. The sessions step them through the following:
Recognising the stages of labour, and the requirements at each stage
Pain management options during labour and delivery, and the pros and cons of each system
Breathing techniques to manage pain during labour
arenting classes (post childbirth) are conducted by professionals who give information and answer questions on topics like nutrition, lactation, breastfeeding, infant care and parenting. First-time parents can find the sleep deficit, health emergencies and partial confinement to a home post childbirth difficult and challenging. These sessions try to de-stress parents regarding these situations with practical information on the basics of baby care and building team work between spouses. The topics covered are:
Breast feeding basics, its importance, how to breast feed properly and handling common breastfeeding issues.
Practicals on changing nappies, carrying, swaddling the baby.
Bathing and massaging a newborn.
Open discussions where parents-to-be air their fears. Professionals talk people through all these concerns and encourage them to discuss their concerns to prepare themselves mentally.
Do I Need Prenatal or Antenatal Classes?
You may opt to give these classes a try if you feel that the time and resources involved will contribute to your happiness and peace of mind in the near future. Any parent-to-be who faces the thought of giving birth or taking home a new family member with trepidation should go to pre and antenatal classes. The classes allay the fears and flood of misleading information that can contribute to stress, panic and bad decision making during the crucial months following childbirth and also during pregnancy.
Why are Antenatal Classes Needed?
Many first time parents, busy professionals and people from nuclear families have apprehensions about childbirth and childrearing. Antenatal classes for couples are needed because they address such fears and help with correct information, planning and a support system.
Who can Go to Antenatal Classes?
Women in their 28th to 30th week of pregnancy, partners interested in accompanying them and capable of playing an important role, experienced parents who feel the need for a 'refresher' course, pregnant women in their early trimesters who feel the need to be better informed- can all benefit by attending these classes.
Benefits of Antenatal Classes
Being calm and patient during pregnancy is very important for your and your little one's health. Antenatal classes benefit moms-to-be by helping them achieve this state of calmness through coaching and counselling regarding every stage they will be going through. Apart from addressing their fears and preparing for the new journey ahead, these classes also emphasize on physical and social well being.
As discussed, antenatal classes range from dealing with prenatal stress to coping with post child birth situations. They prepare moms and their partners for all the new anticipating changes that come along with a baby. However, broadly speaking these issues can be segregated into categories. Samples of commonly covered subjects in these are:
Pregnancy woes of the 2nd & 3rd Trimester
What can you expect: physical changes, changes in lifestyle and circumstances.
Sexual changes (sexual drive) during late childbearing and parenting. Your relationship and hormonal changes.
Old wives tales or truth: coping with the flood of myths and realities associated with this time.
Packing a labour bag: what goes into it.
Food, health and weight gain during pregnancy and afterwards
Foods to be taken and avoided during pregnancy
Creating a pregnancy diet for yourself: healthy eating during pregnancy
Foods that help while breastfeeding
Exercise and relaxation
Benefits of Prenatal Fitness, warm-up session to stretch your spine, arms and legs
Breathing techniques, basic exercises and massage techniques during labour
Core and pelvic floor exercises
Relaxation techniques
Childbirth and after
Recognising the signs and stages of labour.
The partner's role - tips and techniques for them to help out and be a positive influence.
Introduction to breast feeding from birth to the first few weeks.
Types of Antenatal Classes
Antenatal classes cater to various categories of people - antenatal classes for couples, antenatal classes for pregnant women only, classes for those in their first trimester, Labour classes, breastfeeding classes, natural childbirth methodologies, classes emphasising phychological aspects of childbirth and parenting. Some classes cover all these topics, while others focus on specific areas. It is good to make a checklist of your primary motivation for taking the class, and narrow down on the one correct and suitable for you.
Best Time to Start Antenatal Classes
When should you start taking antenatal classes is a question that confounds many. The best time to begin antenatal-classes is 8 – 10 weeks before the baby's due date, when you are 30 to 32 weeks pregnant, so that the information remains fresh in your mind as you approach your D-Day.
Sign up for an antenatal class by yourself or with your partner or close friend, and be well-prepared to welcome your baby into the world. Read more
Suggested for you
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
11 hours ago
Q. #AskTheExpert hello dr.
baby planning kar rhi kuch tips btayiye conceive ho jaye
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
11 hours ago
A. it's a natural process ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
9 hours ago
Q. when baby is kick? I'm 13 weeks pregnant
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
9 hours ago
A. during first pregnancy you may feel the baby movements after 24 to 25 weeks of pregnancy and till then only mild flatters may be felt but which you may not be feeling if you are doing some work
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
9 hours ago
Q. I’m in my 31 week 1 day of pregnancy. What will be my delivery date??
As I have low lying placenta with grade 1 maturity.
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
8 hours ago
A. you had to correlate is ultrasound examination. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
9 hours ago
Q. My hemoglobin is 6.4 from 28 weeks of pregnancy. Now I’m 31 weeks pregnant. What should I do?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
8 hours ago
A. Haven’t when you having some kind of iron supplement because they’re very good during the time of pregnancy if you are not having one you need to start with and whatever tabs you take you should just take it with any good juice specially pomegranate juice that’s going to help in doubling the impact of the medicine that you’re taking secondly try and include more of Iron which diet like spinach broccoli beetroot pomegranate black rice sweet potato these things are exceptionally healthy for you to consume
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
8 hours ago
Q. This is my cbc report
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
8 hours ago
A. No there is nothing visible on my wall so I can really really cannot help you can you please repose the question once again providing all the necessary details as once I’m certain what are you talking about what’s mentioned in the report according to that I can provide you proper help on your question
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
6 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert
now I'm 24 weeks. Sometimes I'm feeling pain in my thigh.
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
6 hours ago
A. For thegh query asked needs consultation with doctor for proper guidance so it is better that the doctor will guide you the correct way .
Onlfine consultation can also be taken and the expert will give you the proper answer .
Check out this new Memory
Valerine Lianna Stiffle
Mom of a 1 yr 11 m old girl
55 mins ago
Party attraction my baby.., 😙😙😻
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Haseeba
Guardian of a 4 m old girl
1 hour ago
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
sabyasachi pradhan
Guardian of a 2 m old girl
1 hour ago
#Happy 2 months @shrinika
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
sonali
Mom of a 5 m old boy
1 hour ago
#babyphotochallenge
0 Likes
0 Comment
Check out this new Memory
Rachana Nahata
Guardian of a Newborn girl
1 hour ago
#stylishbaby
0 Likes
0 Comment
Tell us more about yourself get More Personalised
- Infant0 to 6 Months
- Baby6 Months to 2 Yrs
- Toddler2 to 4 yrs
- Kids4-6 yrs
- Big Kids6+ yrs
- Expecting
- Trying to Conceive