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Enemas During Pregnancy - Types, Benefits & Alternatives
An enema is a procedure used to stimulate bowel movement by inserting liquid or gas through the rectum. An enema may be given to administer medication, to stimulate bowel movements, or to treat constipation. An enema can even be given to pregnant women to ease constipation, which is a common problem during pregnancy. It is given just before delivery to clear the bowels. But giving enemas to pregnant ladies is no longer common. There are several benefits of administering enemas but many people prefer alternatives. Read on to know about the different types of enemas and whether or not they are safe for a pregnant woman.
Are Enemas Safe During Pregnancy?
Administering an enema during pregnancy, especially in the first and third trimesters of pregnancy is not safe. Giving an enema during the first trimester could trigger a miscarriage and in the third trimester, it could lead to premature labour by causing contractions. Pregnancy is a delicate time and certainly not a time to experiment or try something new. Hence, it is best not to give an enema to a pregnant lady. However, if a doctor thinks it is necessary, it can be administered under the guidance of a professional.
What Are the Types of Enemas Used in Pregnancy?
Enemas during pregnancy are not really safe. However, there are some types of enemas which could be administered to expectant mothers, only if they are prescribed by a doctor.
Mineral Oil Enema: Mineral oil is a laxative and a lubricant, which makes it an essential component of enemas used for treating constipation. Administering a mineral oil enema can make the bowels absorb water slowly. The oil attaches to the faeces and retains the water content in it, thus softening it. As a result, the stool passes easily. But sometimes inserting oil can also introduce harmful bacteria in the anus so a pregnant woman should consult a doctor before using any type of enema.
Coffee Enema: Coffee enemas are usually administered to detoxify the liver and to cleanse the colon. But doctors generally don't recommend this as coffee enemas can be potentially dangerous if administered incorrectly or too often.
Soap Suds Enema: A soap suds enema is often used to treat constipation. For a thorough colon cleansing, a mild soap is added to the enema. It is a combination of distilled water and a small amount of mild soap. The soap can irritate your bowel but it will stimulate bowel movement.
Probiotic Enema: A healthy balance between the bad bacteria and good bacteria helps maintain a healthy digestive system. It also reduces the risk of serious infections and disease. A probiotic enema is used to insert probiotics through the rectum. A probiotic enema helps eliminate the harmful bacteria in the colon and increase the number of good bacteria, thus keeping a healthy balance.
Sodium Phosphate Enema: This enema is a medication prescribed by the doctor to treat constipation. It works by drawing water in the large intestine and causes a bowel movement within 5 minutes of administering it.
Tap Water Enema: It is an injection of tap water into the rectum. The enema makes the colon to expand and initiate a bowel movement. A second enema may be required in case of serious constipation. However, this is not safe and a doctor must be consulted before you plan to administer it.
Lemon Juice Enema: Made by mixing lemon juice and water, this enema helps provide relief from colitis, which is inflammation of the colon.
Benefits of Enemas
Mentioned below are some of the benefits of using enemas. Administering enemas to a pregnant woman can be beneficial for her, however, the potentials risks of enemas outweigh the benefits, hence they should be avoided.
Help Treat Constipation: Enemas provide relief from constipation. Administering enemas can also cure constipation in people who don’t respond to laxatives.
May Help Detect Growth of Cancerous Cells: Enemas are used before a colonoscopy procedure which helps detect any cancerous growth or polyps.
May Assist in Weight Loss: Administering enemas can help in weight loss and therefore kick start the weight loss process.
May Cleanse the Colon: The enema loosens up the hardened stool thereby helping it to pass easily. As a result, it flushes out built-up waste and cleanses the colon.
Refreshes the mind: Removing all the toxins and old matter from within your body can relax you. As a result, it will make you feel lighter.
Alternate Ways to Treat Constipation in Pregnancy
As administering enemas during pregnancy is not safe and can affect the health of a pregnant woman, it is suggested that you try certain home remedies for constipation. If you also suffer from the problem of constipation during pregnancy, here are some home remedial measures that you can try.
Eat Yoghurt: Yoghurt is rich in probiotics and therefore can help in getting rid of the bad bacteria from the body. The calcium present discourages the growth of cells in the lining of the colon.
Eat High-Fibre Food: Eat high-fibre food items such as legumes, veggies, and whole grains to keep your gut health in check. Fibrous foods help in moving the food easily through the food canal and can ease the problem of constipation.
Drink Water: Drinking 8-10 glasses of water a day can help flush out toxins from your body. It may also help reduce water retention and keep your body hydrated.
Exercise: Being active during pregnancy can help assist in the smooth flow of bowel movement. You can indulge in light exercises. You can walk for 10-20 minutes or practice yoga for about half an hour.
Take Psyllium Seeds: Taking psyllium seeds can help cure constipation. However, it is suggested that you consult your doctor before taking these seeds as these seeds can react against some medicines.
Try Acupressure: You can also resort to acupressure instead of an enema or any medicine.
Aromatherapy: Relaxing your body and mind can help in bowel movement. Therefore having a soothing bath with aroma oil could help.
Do You Need to Take an Enema During Labour and Delivery?
Administering an enema during labour and delivery is not common now in various countries. However, in India, many doctors consider it if the need arises. Many doctors believe that administering an enema during labour or delivery can make the whole process of labour and delivery an easier experience for a pregnant woman or else she might defecate while pushing out the baby. Administering an enema also lowers the chances of the mother and the newborn contracting any infection. Moreover, passing stools after the delivery may be uncomfortable for a mother because of the fresh stitches and sore body. However, nowadays, it is said that all these claims are mere assumptions. Thus, it can be said that giving enemas during labour and delivery is a matter of choice rather than a necessity.
When to Visit a Doctor
Constipation during pregnancy can be very uncomfortable. It causes faeces to harden causing bleeding from the rectum and lower abdominal pain. If you have constipation in pregnancy, you should consult a doctor if you have tried every possible harmless home remedy for constipation.
You might be tempted to take mineral oil or coffee enema at home but you shouldn't. Administering enemas during pregnancy is not safe and should be taken only if it is suggested by your doctor. Administering an enema in the first trimester of pregnancy can lead to a miscarriage. And in the third trimester, it could result in premature labour. You must consult your doctor before taking an enema at home.
Enemas can prove to be a boon for some and bane for others, especially for pregnant women. If you are uncomfortable taking an enema before childbirth, all you need to do is mention it in your 'birth plan' or to your doctor. The best way to stay clear of constipation and enema during pregnancy is to eat fibrous foods and fruits and drink 8-10 glasses of water a day. This will not only help you improve your bowel movements but also enrich your body with essential nutrients and keep your body hydrated.
Reference: Healthline.com
Also Read: Rectal Bleeding During Pregnancy Read more
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Baby Farts - Causes and Remedies
Farting is a very normal and natural occurrence. There can be several causes for it, from the simplest to the most complex. However, farting in babies does not mean that the baby is sick. It only means that your baby is gassy and is passing out the gas that was trapped inside.
Why Do Babies Fart?
Parents are often worried when their baby farts a lot. They fear that their baby is farting as a result of some illness. However, it is said that passing out gas is a good thing since gas lodged inside could result in the baby having a stomach ache or suffering from colic. Some of the reasons why babies fart are listed below.
1. Aerophagia
Swallowing of air or aerophagia is a common cause of gas in the system. The air that babies swallow during eating, drinking, laughing and crying causes gas.
2. Breaking Down of Undigested Food
When undigested food is broken down, gas gets accumulated. It also happens when mothers who breastfeed do not watch their diet and eat anything that encourages gas formation.
3. Hyperlactation Syndrome
A mother may produce a large amount of foremilk if she has an abundant supply of milk. Since foremilk is high in water content and lactose, and it causes stomach cramps in babies. Moreover, the baby takes in a lot of air while taking the quick flowing milk making the baby gassier. The baby also tends to feed more when she does not get enough of the rich hindmilk. This causes more weight gain for the baby and results in flatulence.
4. Over-Stimulation
When sensitive babies get stressed due to loud noise, lights, touch, strangers or visitors etc., it results in over-stimulation. This makes them gassy, cranky and they have difficulty in sleeping later in the day or night. Some children who have an intense brain-intestine connection are more prone to an upset stomach.
5. Introduction of Solid Food
Babies need time to transition from breast milk to solid food. This is because the different probiotics and enzymes that aid in digestion and absorbing nutrients take time to build up.
6. Overeating
When babies overeat, it affects their body’s gastrocolic reflex more. This disturbs the digestive system and upsets the baby’s stomach regardless of what she eats. Overeating can also disturb the body’s supply of essential digestive enzymes which help in breaking down a large amount of food, undigested proteins, starch and fat. This stops the body from processing nutrients and eliminating waste. As a result, there is a formation of gas.
7. Lactose Intolerance/Transient Lactose Deficiency
Lactose intolerance in a baby may also cause gas. It develops when the baby’s body is unable to produce enough lactase to break down sugars like galactose and glucose. Thus, unbroken lactose travels to the large intestine and ferments. This is converted into gas.
8. Incorrect Breastfeeding Postures
When the baby is unable to latch properly, it may cause her to swallow a lot of air. This air forms bubbles in the intestines causing excessive gas. To help the baby come out of this condition, the mother can switch between breasts while feeding or place the baby in a vertical position while feeding.
What are the Repercussions of Infant Farting?
There is nothing abnormal about a gassy baby. The baby’s underdeveloped digestive system is unable to tackle the digestion process which results in gas formation. This is not the sign of an underlying medical problem. However, if the baby has an inflated stomach and cries incessantly, it could be due to the resultant pain. If this is accompanied by fever, fussiness, and problems in urination, it can be a sign of some health issue. Apart from these signs, if your baby, along with being gassy, is constipated, has blood in his stools, is continuously vomiting, and has a fever or rectal temperature of 101 degree or above, you should consult a paediatrician.
Tips to Ease Your Baby’s Farts
If your baby farts all the time, it could mean that she is gassy. It affects all babies at some time or the other. However, there are some simple tips which every mother could follow.
1. Rubbing The Baby’s Belly
Massage your baby’s tummy gently in clockwise circular movements from the right side under the ribs to the left side. This will allow the gas bubbles to move along the digestive tract.
2. Burping
Throughout the feed, make your baby burp by patting her back gently. Again beore switching breasts or at the middle of a bottle feed, gently rub her back and pat her back to make her back. Making a baby burp will help her to eliminate gas.
3. Pedalling
This technique, known as the bicycle legs, does wonders in eliminating gas. First, place your baby on a firm surface. Then hold the baby’s feet and slowly make them go back and forth in a pedalling motion. Then bend your baby’s legs towards her chest. Repeat the actions few more times throughout the day but remember never to do it just after a feed.
4. Frog Kick
Place your baby on the floor. Then holding her lower legs, move them in clockwise rotation from the chest, to the right hips, to the knees, to the left hips, to the chest. Then slightly stretch the legs upright and lift her bottom off the floor. Lastly, finish off by bending her knees and bringing them towards her chest.
5. Other Exercises
If 'pedalling' and 'frog kick' does not help, then you can try few more exercises to do the trick –
Toe to Nose Stretch
Hold your baby’s ankles and stretch her legs. Then holding the ankle, lift up her legs to her nose.
Toe to Shoulder
Hold the ankles and stretch her legs straight. Then lifting them up, try and touch her shoulder. You can also try out the criss-cross version by touching the left side toe to the right side shoulder and the right side toe to the left side shoulder.
Toe to Hip
Stretch the legs first and then bring both the legs to one side of the hips and then take them to the other side.
However, remember to be always gentle with your baby while performing any exercise.
Babywearing
Pain due to gas gets more severe when the baby lies on her back. In order to avoid that, try babywearing. It is a great way to get the gas down and out and also allows the baby to sleep in an upright position.
Warm Bath
A warm bath helps in relaxing and soothing the gas pain. Keep few towels handy as it may also relax constipation in children.
Tummy Time
Tummy time is not only important in strengthening a baby’s upper body but also helps in passing out gas that is lodged in her stomach. All you need to do is place a soft mat on the floor and put your baby on her tummy for at least 20 minutes.
Rocking and Bouncing
Rocking and bouncing may help your baby in eliminating gas. However, remember any movement should be done gently.
Probiotics
In case of older babies, you could consider giving probiotics. It can cure colic which may aid in relieving gas, by helping to maintain good bacteria in the baby’s digestive system.
Every baby is different. While one tip may prove to be beneficial for one baby, some other tip may be a boon for the other.
Also Read: Baby Not Eating - Reasons and Feeding Tips Read more
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Conjunctivitis (Pink Eye) during Pregnancy
Conjunctivitis or pink eye is an inflammation that causes redness and discomfort in the eyes. It is transmitted when you come in close contact with someone who has the infection. Thus, anyone can contract conjunctivitis; however, getting a pink eye during pregnancy might worry you a bit more because of the added discomfort and concerns about foetal health. Therefore, it is always better to know what you could do to avoid contracting the infection during pregnancy or how you could treat it. Read on to know about conjunctivitis or pink eye during pregnancy.
What Is Conjunctivitis?
Conjunctivitis is inflammation caused by virus/bacteria that affects the conjunctiva, which is a thin membrane located on the inside of the eyelids and on the surface of the eye. The causes of the infection are quite a few (described below); however, the infection is common and can be transmitted easily by touch or, as mentioned earlier, by coming in close contact with someone who has the infection. (Marked for expert review)
What If I Contract Conjunctivitis During Pregnancy?
There is no cause for concern since it is a common infection in pregnant women also, and it does not cause any long-term or eye damage. The inflammation stays for roughly a week, and goes away by itself; however, the discomfort might be too irritating for pregnant women. There are medicines available that provide some respite from the burning sensation or itching in the eyes.
What Causes Conjunctivitis During Pregnancy?
Conjunctivitis may be linked to one of the following causes.
1. Bacteria
Conjunctivitis due to bacterial infections is one of the most common ways of contracting it. It causes redness in the eyes, along with itching, swelling, and yellow discharge. In some cases, bacterial conjunctivitis is accompanied by a cold, a sore throat, and at times, a respiratory infection. The most common cause of bacterial infection is wearing infected contact lenses.
2. Virus
A viral conjunctivitis is also a common form of pink eye. It can affect both the eyes at once and usually causes redness and itching, sometimes with a slight discharge from the eyes. This form is the most easily transmitted form of conjunctivitis and can also be accompanied by other symptoms like a cold and a sore throat.
3. Seasonal Allergy
Seasonal allergens are common and are responsible for causing conjunctivitis during pregnancy. It usually happens during springtime; you’ll notice that your eyes tear up, become red and turn itchy. A pollen allergy is the most common kind of allergy that causes conjunctivitis. The inflammation is also accompanied by sneezing.
4. Foreign Body
Our eyes generally start tearing up when a foreign particle like sand, dirt, dust enters them. Sometimes, a foreign particle can also cause conjunctivitis. In that case, you would also experience slight pain in the eye, redness, and some sort of discharge from the eyes. Conjunctivitis due to a foreign body that carries the virus/ bacteria can affect both the eyes also.
5. Rubbing the Eyes
Usually, rubbing your own eyes a bit too much could lead to redness and tearing, making them susceptible to contract conjunctivitis if you come in contact with someone who already has the infection. Also, bacteria or viruses that cause a pink eye can be transmitted from your own hands to your eyes if you do not maintain enough hygiene.
6. Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI)
Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI) transmit conjunctivitis between persons. Chlamydia trachomatis is one of the most common STIs that causes conjunctivitis when the bacteria spreads to the eyes of the infected person.
7. Physical Contact
Physical contact with a person with conjunctivitis can lead to you contracting the virus or the bacteria, as conjunctivitis spreads easily and has an incubation period of just 24 to 72 hours.
Common Symptoms of Pink Eye
Common symptoms of a pink eye during pregnancy are -
Redness accompanied by watery or yellow discharge
Redness and swelling in the eyes
Increased sensitivity to bright lights
Crusts around the eyelids
Grittiness in the eye
Itching and discomfort
Painful eyes
How to Treat Conjunctivitis When Pregnant
Here are some treatment options for conjunctivitis during pregnancy.
1. Antibiotics
Your doctor will examine your eyes to determine the type of conjunctivitis and prescribe appropriate antibiotics. Prescription antibiotics should be recommended by the physician, since some antibiotics may harm the foetus.Hence, you must let your doctor know that you are pregnant. This also applies if you’re trying to conceive.
2. Eye Drops
These are used for treating bacterial conjunctivitis; however, they are not very effective against chlamydial conjunctivitis. For other types of conjunctivitis, they provide respite from inflammation and also soothe your eyes.
3. Ocular Treatment
Ocular medications are used to treat conjunctivitis during pregnancy. For more information on this, ask your doctor or physician, as ocular treatments are provided on a case-by-case basis.
Natural/ Home Remedies for Pink Eye During Pregnancy
Natural/ home remedies could help treat conjunctivitis during pregnancy. Read on to know some of them.
1. Warm Compress
A warm compress relieves dry eye symptoms and improves blood circulation. It also reduces inflammation and can be effective in decreasing the discomfort in the eyes. Having said that, you need to maintain hygiene and ensure nobody touches the used compress; else, they will contract the infection.
2. Rosewater
You can use rosewater in the form of remedial eye drops to cleanse your eyes and eliminate any particles or irritants. Rosewater also soothes and cools the eyes. Use good quality rosewater though to treat your eyes if you have the inflammation.
3. Green Tea Bags
Tea bags are a great home remedy to care for your eyes and are especially useful to reduce the appearance of dark circles and soothe tired eyes. They are, therefore, also recommended for conjunctivitis. Dip some green tea bags in boiling water, let them cool, squeeze the water and keep them on the eyes for a few minutes every day. Do not transfer the tea bags from one eye to the other and dispose of them immediately after use.
4. Proper Hygiene
Hygiene plays an important role in preventing and treating conjunctivitis. Keep your hands clean at all times and avoid touching your eyes too often. Also, use a clean, soft towel to wipe the discharge.
5. Honey
Honey has anti-bacterial properties; thus, it can be a home remedy for bacterial conjunctivitis. It can also stop the infection from spreading and reduce redness in the eyes. (Marked for expert review)
6. Homoeopathic Remedy
Homoeopathic remedies can also be an alternative to allopathic medicines available to treat pink eye. However, we do recommend you to consult a trustworthy homoeopathic doctor instead of buying over-the-counter medicines.
7. Colloidal Silver
Silver solutions or colloidal silver is used for treating eye infections during pregnancy. The ointment version is preferred by most mothers and doctors. (Marked for expert review)
9. Eyebright Tea
Herbal teas like eyebright tea have anti-bacterial properties and could be effective against conjunctivitis. Eyebright capsules are available for those who wish not to consume tea. This tea is recommended in limited quantities only, as an overdose could be risky during pregnancy.
10. Rinsing With Saltwater Solution
Rinsing your eyes with salt water solution is another effective home remedy for conjunctivitis. Salt also has cleansing and anti-microbial properties which can help treat pink eye.
11. Raw Potatoes
This remedy may sound crazy, but slices of fresh, raw, and cold potatoes are effective in soothing pain caused by conjunctivitis. Ensure you wash the potatoes thoroughly to avoid any dirt entering into your eyes.
12. Cold Compress
Just like a warm compress, a cold compress can also provide quite some amount of respite from the redness and discomfort caused during conjunctivitis. Ensure you use different washcloths for each eye to prevent the infection from transmitting. You may avoid this remedy is you have a cold, a fever, or if you suffer from sinusitis.
13. Tulsi/ Holy Basil
Tulsi or holy basil is known for its healing properties and fights against fungal, bacterial, and viral conjunctivitis. Soak the leaves in boiled water for 10 minutes and use as an eyewash, or soak some clean cotton pads in this water, squeeze the excess, and keep them on the eyes.
14. Aloe Vera Gel
Aloe vera helps reduce inflammation. Apply some aloe vera gel on your eyelids and keep them for a few minutes. The gel helps cool the eyes and reduces itching and swelling around the eyes.
15. Turmeric
Turmeric can also be a good home remedy to treat conjunctivitis. Take two tablespoons of turmeric powder and mix it in a cup of boiling water. Using a washcloth or cotton pads, apply the mixture over your eyelids.
How to Prevent Pink Eye During Pregnancy
You can prevent pink eye during pregnancy by taking the following measures -
Avoid sharing eye drops, eye wipes, and cosmetics with others.
Avoid physical contact with people with inflammation.
Avoid sexual contact with people with sexually transmitted infections.
Protect your eyes with glasses; prevent dust particles and dirt from entering the eyes.
Wash your hands and maintain hygiene.
Rinse your eyes with clean water regularly and dry them properly with a clean, soft towel.
Can Conjunctivitis Affect Pregnancy?
Non-pharmacological treatments are preferred for treating conjunctivitis, since they prevent complications and risks, especially during pregnancy. So yes, if you’re using antibiotics or prescription drugs for treatment, it may affect your pregnancy, depending on what chemicals enter the foetus.
Conjunctivitis goes away naturally in a matter of weeks. If you notice it persisting for over a week, contact your doctor and seek immediate treatment.
Also Read:
Shortness of Breath during Pregnancy
Cough and Cold during Pregnancy
Acidity during Pregnancy
Resources and References
MomJunction
Pharmaceutical Journal
Read more
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Aam Panna
Aam panna is an easy-to-make tangy summer cooler made from raw mangoes. It is also known to be an immediate remedy for heat stroke. So, let your kids enjoy sipping this chilled Aam panna over the aerated drinks during this summer season. The best part? The concentrate can be bottled and used for at least a month.
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
4 People
10-15 Minutes
15-20 Minutes
Ingredients
250 gm raw mangoes
150 gm jaggery
1 tbsp cumin powder
1 tsp black pepper powder
2 tbsp cardamom powder
Saffron Strands (Optional)
Method
Step 1
Take 4 raw mangoes. Wash them thoroughly under running water.
Step 2
Pressure cook them until they become soft. The cover comes off easily after pressure cooking them.
Step 3
Remove the pulp and transfer it into a blender.
Step 4
The ratio of jaggery and raw mango depends on the pulp you get from mangoes. The ideal ratio is 2:1, i.e. 2 parts jaggery and 1 part mango pulp.
Step 5
In a blender, add the mango pulp, cumin powder, black pepper powder and cardamom powder and blend it well.
Step 6
Remove the pulp in a bottle. You can store pulp in refrigerator for up to a month.
Step 7
Whenever you want a glass of aam panna, take a tall glass and place 4 ice cubes at the bottom. Pour the pulp, add water and give it a nice stir it well.
Step 8
Your summer cooler is ready to serve.
Nutritional Information
Calories
208 K cal
Proteins
1.0 gm
Fats
0.7 gm
Carbohydrates
50.7 gm
Cholesterol
0 mg
Sodium
1832 mg
Potassium
1694 mg
Tip: You can use sugar instead of jaggery. Read more
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World Toilet Day 2021 - History, Significance, and Facts
Do you know that 40% of the world’s population, i.e. 4.2 billion people, do not have access to proper sanitation facilities? Yes, you read it right! Even though we humans have achieved a significant milestone in technology, agriculture, space research, and bioscience, we still haven’t crossed one hurdle of hygiene and sanitization. Poor sanitation increases the risk of diseases and malnutrition, primarily in women and children. To shed light on the great importance of toilets and hygiene, the United Nations had established World Toilet Day in 2013.
What Is World Toilet Day?
World Toilet Day is dedicated to raising awareness of sanitation and health crisis across the globe. The United Nations Water, along with the governments across the world, focus on building sustainable initiatives that will tackle climate change and global sanitation plight. Global communities, big and small, profit and non-profit, have come up with thousands of innovations that have the potential of wiping out this crisis in the coming years.
By 2030 Sustainable Development goals, the United Nations hopes that it will ensure the availability and management of proper sanitation facilities and water in all countries.
When It Is Observed
The United Nations General Assembly has declared November 19 as World Toilet Day. World Toilet Day date is a reminder about the people who live in severe poverty and poor sanitation circumstances.
History of World Toilet Day
A dedicated philanthropist from Singapore, Jack Sim, established the World Sanitation Organization on November 19, 2001, to stress sanitation systems, processes and public awareness. Later, this day was renamed World Toilet Day by the United Nations to ease public understanding since toilets are considered the first and foremost subject of sanitation.
Soon after, the WTO started to raise awareness globally and established World Toilet Day as a global health crisis. Following active support for this day by many institutions, the United Nations declared the right to sanitation and water a human right.
In 2013, the Government of Singapore and the World Toilet Organisation participated in a joint initiative, and the UN’s first resolution was passed - Sanitation for All, to diminish the sanitation crisis around the world. The resolution was adopted by around 122 countries at the UN General Assembly held in New York.
Another resolution passed by the United Nations Secretary Ban Ki-Moon, named Call to Action on Sanitation, aims to end open defecation by 2025.
The Importance of World Toilet Day
Did you know that Diarrhea is the second leading disease causing the death of children below the age of five? The fact that this disease is entirely preventable with access to clean water and basic sanitation facilities is a reminder of the milestone we still haven’t achieved. India, the second-largest populated country, tops the chart of having the worst sanitation facilities in the world.
Why do we need the World Toilet Day celebration? Here are the following reasons:
1. Raise Awareness
World Toilet Day needs to be celebrated in every country as it is a subject many people consider inappropriate to discuss. With a massive leap in technological advancements, we need to broaden our mindsets and welcome this day. Posting awareness on social media platforms, at public places, and educational and work institutions is necessary.
2. Climate Crisis
Since climate crisis is another emergency we are facing today, it is imperative that we focus on innovations that are not just solutions, but sustainable solutions. Sanitation and water go hand in hand. We have to create such solutions that reduce the sanitation problem and sustainably manage procurement and wastage management of water for all.
3. Urgency
The sanitation crisis is increasing at an alarming rate, which cannot be ignored anymore. Every year around 3 million children die of poor sanitation facilities and exposed water. This leads to a decline in the GDPs of poorer countries, due to which poor countries remain in a vicious circle of poverty and hygiene.
How One Can Observe World Toilet Day
The official convener of World Toilet Day, UN-Water, choose a new theme every year for this day. ‘Leaving no one behind’ was the official theme of World Toilet Day for 2019. Prior to 2019, other themes included ‘toilets and nutrition’, ‘wastewater’, ‘nature-based solutions’, etc. This year’s theme is ‘valuing toilets’.
There are many ways you can observe International Toilet Day with friends, classmates, and teachers. Several educational institutions and companies, and public places also celebrate this day.
1. Gain knowledge
The first and foremost thing to do is gather knowledge of the crisis, historical circumstances, and current statistics. You can start by learning about the history of toilets, from ancient Greeks and Romans to brilliant Indus valley civilizations. Then, you can do some research on the current sanitation situation in your home country and compare it with global richer and poorer countries. This comparison will give a clear picture of your country’s improved sanitation situation.
2. Visit museums and institutions dedicated to the subject of awareness
Do you know that there is a museum in the capital city of India, Delhi, dedicated entirely to toilets? The Sulabh International Museum of Delhi by an India-based NGO Sulabh International displays various kinds of toilets from 2500 BC to the modern date. The museum is constructed to promote the awareness of proper sanitation across the country and shed light on the global history of toilets and sanitation.
3. Improvise it
As it is rightly said that the change starts from within. To perfectly understand the crisis at hand, we need to start the change with ourselves first. You can start by posting a picture of your clean toilet to raise awareness of sanitation and World Toilet Day. Benefit from the power of hashtags and spread your message on social media platforms.
4. Time to take action
Educational institutions, including schools, colleges, and universities, participate in every way to raise awareness. As a responsible citizen, you can take part in events and competitions like slogan making, poster making, wall art, etc. Several theatre groups create plays that boost public awareness. Suppose you want to collaborate and make changes globally. In that case, you can visit the official website of World Toilet Day, partake in international events, and connect to people globally who are fighting for the same cause.
How to Toilet Train Your Child
Toilet training is an essential part of parenting during the development of kids. Some kids learn to use toilets early, while some take time, which can be frustrating for parents.
We have some simple guidelines that can make potty training stress-free.
Plan a routine
Start the training when your child is old enough to sit. You don’t have to rush things. You can set them on the toilet after their meal and play with them until they do their business.
Look out for physical and facial signs
Children tend to show signs and make facial gestures that indicate that they are going to do their business.
The right equipment
Buying the right equipment, like a potty or a toilet training seat for your child is important. They should neither be small or big, but a right fit.
Communication
As your child starts to talk, you need to teach them the words associated with the toilet. Use hand gestures, bright facial expressions, and praises to teach them. Ask them now and then whether they want to visit the washroom or not.
Advanced skills
Now that your toddler can sit, walk, and talk, teach them some actions like how to pull down and pull up their underwear when they want to visit the toilet. Also, teach them about the regular use of flush and hand wash every time after using the bathroom.
Good Toilet Habits for Kids
Children are at a learning stage when toilet training. Since they are only learning new words and things, don’t hurry. They will learn at their pace.
Teach them the rules of toilet training when they are playing.
Practice hand-washing with them after very toilet use. Children learn by copying their parents. So, if you follow hygiene habits, they too will follow the same.
Teach them how to sit properly.
Clean the toilet facilities after every use.
World Toilet Day Facts
Around 297,000 children (more than 800 every day) under the age of five die yearly from diarrhoeal diseases because of poor hygiene, unsafe drinking water, and poor sanitation.
40% of the global population lives without basic hand-washing facilities like soap and water available at home.
Globally, 80% of the wastewater generated by human consumption flows back into the natural ecosystem without being treated or reused.
By 2050, there will be a crisis of water that up to 5.7 billion people could be residing in areas where water is scarce for at least one month a year.
For every dollar spent on water and sanitation, there is a $4.30 return in the form of lessened health care costs around the world.
People across the globe have access to more mobile phones than toilets.
Toilets have added up to twenty years to the human lifespan over the past 200 years.
Strong Quotes for World Toilet Day
“May your life be like toilet paper, long and useful.” - Anonymous
“You don’t know what you have until it’s gone. For example, toilet paper.” - Anonymous
“Don’t hurry, don’t worry. Do your best. An flush the rest. In the toilet!” - Anonymous
“This day reminds us of the fact of how important sanitation and hygiene is in our lives.” - Anonymous
“The lack of a proper supply of water, proper sanitation systems, and sewage systems are causing infections to an uncountable number of people and are creating a very unhealthy lifestyle for them.” - Anonymous
Sustainable sanitation is a concerning problem across the world. It is essential to employ safe sanitation practices in every household as it sheds light on the development of the country as a whole; because toilets are the way to avert several public health crises. As World Toilet Day approaches, we should make sure to communicate with people among us about the best practices of healthy hygiene.
Also Read:
Diarrhoea in Children
Potty Training for Girls Read more
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Dr Ghouse
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