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HCG Levels – Know Twin Pregnancy Better
It is natural for expecting mothers to be full of questions. Since twin or multiple pregnancies are slightly different from single pregnancies, you may be filled with more questions than usual. How does a twin pregnancy differ from a single pregnancy? This, and the particulars of how hCG plays a role in it are discussed in the article below.
Connection Between HCG and Twins
HCG or Human Chorionic Gonadotropin is a hormone that helps in detecting pregnancy. For a single baby, the hCG level varies from 70 to 750 mIU/ml (i.e., milli international units per milliliter, which is a unit to measure hormones). High hCG levels can be found for twins during the early stages for pregnancy. The normal hCG levels for twins is 30% to 50% higher than in single pregnancy- somewhere around 200 to 1750 mIU/ml.
The level of hCG may double every 2-3 days in early pregnancy. Blood tests give best results when taken 7-8 days after ovulation. Most home tests can detect pregnancy 4 to 5 days before the next expected period.
Role of HCG Level in Twin Pregnancy
The body does not produce hCG; rather, it comes purely from the developing baby. Each developing baby secretes some amount of hCG, which doubles in the case of twins.. These hormones work collectively to thicken the lining of the uterus, which supports the baby during pregnancy.
Progesterone is a hormone that stimulates the uterus to prepare for pregnancy. It is produced by the corpus luteum (an endocrine gland within the ovary). The purpose of hCG is to keep progesterone levels in balance until the placenta is developed enough to produce its own progesterone.
When expecting twins, the hCG level increases dramatically, making it faster to detect HCG via blood and urine tests. It doubles every 48 to 72 hours.
The negative result of high hCG levels from the conception twins is that it can lead to more morning sickness during early pregnancy, which means more nausea and vomiting.
When Is HCG Produced?
HCG is produced in the placenta right after implantation. It can be detected in the blood or urine of the woman during early stages of pregnancy through hCG tests. Since the hormone level may fluctuate before periods, it is best to test after one misses their periods.
Sometimes, high levels of hCG along with the symptoms can also indicate a molar pregnancy where the placenta grows abnormally when the sperm and egg meet during fertilisation. In this phenomenon, the sperm fertilises with an empty egg, leading to growth in placental parts, but no baby. This is known as complete molar pregnancy. The other type is partial molar pregnancy, where the mass of the foetus contains both the embryo and abnormal cells that can carry severe birth defects. The healthy embryo, in this case, will end up being consumed by the abnormal mass.
Elevated levels of hCG can also occur due to gestational trophoblastic tumor, a rare form of cancer. If treated early, it is highly curable. Another reason for high levels of hCG can be the beginning of an ectopic pregnancy where the embryo grows outside the uterus, i.e., in the fallopian tube. It must be treated immediately since the fallopian tubes are not designed to hold a growing embryo.
HCG is often injected in the system for women struggling with infertility to increase their levels of progesterone and increase their chances of pregnancy.
Why Is the HCG Level Test Performed?
HCG level test is performed for multiple reasons:
Most commonly performed to confirm pregnancy.
To identify and later diagnose any abnormality such as ectopic pregnancy, where the uterus develops in the fallopian tube.
To diagnose a potential miscarriage.
To identify the levels of the protein PAPP-A in the blood which, when low, increases the chances of the foetus having Down Syndrome.
Does Taking an HCG Level Test Cause Pain?
There are two ways to identify hCG levels in the system – a urine test and a blood test. Except for the pinching sensation of the needle during the blood test, there is no other pain involved. In cases where the individual cannot determine the date of ovulation, it is best to perform either of these tests 10 days after a missed menstrual period.
A urine test or home tests are 97% accurate, provided they are performed correctly. Here, a test sensitive to hCG levels is exposed to the woman’s urine either directly or through a cup containing urine. If the strip changes color, it means the test result is positive.
Here is how you can prepare to take a home urine test for hCG levels:
Read the instructions of your test kit thoroughly to understand how it works.
Check the expiration date of the kit. That can also affect your test results.
Do not drink large amounts of water before taking the urine test, as that may dilute the hCG levels in your urine.
The most accurate results will be achieved with your first urine of the day.
Make sure to take the test at least 7-14 days after your missed period for more accurate results.
A qualitative blood test is the most reliable way to identify the presence of hCG in the blood. Apart from this, quantitative blood tests can be conducted to determine the amount of hCG present in the blood. This test can also identify progesterone levels, monitor pregnancies, or correctly diagnose ectopic pregnancies, cancer, and chances of miscarriage.
People having bleeding disorders can experience problems after the blood tests have been performed. There can be swelling in the veins after the blood samples have been taken. However, these are rare cases, and there are very few chances of having problems due to blood tests.
HCG Levels in Single and Twin Pregnancies
HCG levels differ significantly in case of twin or multiple pregnancies when compared to a single pregnancy. Below is a chart that lists the range of hCG levels in different pregnancies.
HCG Level Chart for Twins and Single Pregnancy
Days from LMP*
hCG Range for Singleton Pregnancy
hCG Range for Multiple Pregnancy
28
9.4-120
9.5-120
33
300-600
200-1,800
36
1,200-1,800
2,400-36,000
40
2,400-4,800
8,700-108,000
45
12,000-60,000
72,000-180,000
70
96,000-144,000
348,000-480,000
*LMP = Last Menstrual Period
How Often Does HCG Multiply?
As the embryo keeps growing and developing into a foetus inside the uterus, the amount of HCG released increases rapidly. It doubles approximately after every 2-3 days.
Your first hCG level that comes out in your test is considered the baseline level. This level is important to doctors because they will use this to determine how your pregnancy is coming along, based on the concept of ‘doubling time’ - the process of the hCG levels increasing during early pregnancy.
As the pregnancy develops, the release of HCG slows down significantly. HCG takes 72 – 96 hours to develop if it is valued at 1200 – 6000 mIU/ml . HCG values above 6000 mIU/ml take four or more days to double. Once the HCG level reaches 1000 – 2000 mIU/ml, a transvaginal ultrasound can be done to see the gestational sac. The growth becomes slower once the HCG level goes above 6000 mIU/ml.
The rise in hCG becomes slower after two to three months, and eventually the hCG level declines and remains consistent for the rest of the pregnancy. Doctors can carefully monitor the development of a pregnancy by way of quantitative blood tests.
A sonogram can be done after hCG levels reach above 6000 mIU/ml as that provides a clearer depiction of pregnancy.
It is also common to have ultrasound screenings when there is a doubt over hCG levels. This can help in assessing and ascertaining the foetal age and growth since blood hCG levels are prone to variations. A transvaginal scan is very common as it is more accurate than an abdominal scan.
Note: Caution must be exercised if hCG levels are low as it can be a sign of a miscarriage, a blighted ovum or an ectopic pregnancy. Hence, regular monitoring must be done to diagnose it.
It is possible to have a healthy baby in spite of low levels of hCG. In such scenarios, the results from an ultrasound after 5 – 6 weeks of gestation are more reliable compared to numbers derived from quantitative hCG test results.
What Can Affect HCG levels?
HCG levels can be affected by the following reasons:
1. Multiple Pregnancies
Each baby inside the mother’s womb releases a normal amount of hCG, which increases the overall hCG level in the body. In cases of twins, triplets or more (commonly experienced by older women), the hCG levels can be double or triple compared to the normal level during single pregnancy.
2. Genetic Defect
Extremely high hCG levels can be caused due to genetic complications during fertilisation. This could indicate that the baby may have Down syndrome. A molar pregnancy can also occur where the placenta overdevelops into an abnormal mass of cells, leading to a mole. This can lead to the death of the baby in the mother’s womb which may or may not get detected.
3. Genetic Complications
Low levels of hCG can be experienced due to genetic complications which could lead to an ectopic pregnancy or a miscarriage. Pregnancy can be complicated or terminated as a result.
4. Cancer
Cancer in the uterus, stomach, liver, lungs, pancreas and large intestine can also raise hCG levels.
5. Influencing Factors
Pregnancy tests performed either too early in the pregnancy or during the later half of the day you plan on taking the test can produce false negative pregnancy results. You can get the most accurate results by testing the first urine of the day.
6. Infertility Treatments
Often, hCG is injected to treat infertile women, which again increases the levels of the hormone in the body.
Do High Levels of HCG Mean That You Will Have Twins?
The presence of higher quantities of hCG in urine can be a sign of twins or multiple pregnancies, but this may not always be the case. The level of this hormone may vary from woman to woman or across pregnancies.
HCG levels see a lot of variation in pregnancies and can be an important determinant in recognising a twin pregnancy. However, it is not the sole determinant to indicate that you will be having twins, as an increased hCG level can be the result of several other conditions as well.
Also Read:
IVF and Twins: What Are My Chances?
Signs and Symptoms of Twin Pregnancy
Twin Pregnancy Diet: What to Eat when Pregnant with Twins
How to Stay Healthy During a Twin Pregnancy Read more
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पम्मी को हमेशा चाहिए पापा मम्मी दोनों का ही प्यार
पम्मी सुबह से ही रो रही थी, सीमा उसे चुप कराने के लिए सारे प्रयास कर रही थी । पम्मी को केवल मम्मी ही नहीं पापा भी चाहिए थे । राजेश और सीमा में काफी दिनों से अनबन सी चल रही थी, तो वे साथ में नहीं रह रहे थे । पम्मी बेचारी नासमझ, चार साल की तो थी, उसे क्या समझ में आने वाला था ।
सीमा और राजेश दोनों एक ही कंपनी में काम करते थे, मुंबई में । दोनों में ना जाने कब प्यार हो गया और बस दोनों के घरवालों की रजामंदी से और साथ ही पसंद से झट मग्नि पट ब्याह भी हो गया ।
कंपनी में दोनों को ही काम का बहुत तनाव रहता सो घर आने में देर हो जाती । फिर इसलिए राजेश की माताजी बड़े बेटे राकेश के पास ही रहती । कभी कभी आ जाया करती । सीमा अपने माता-पिता की इकलौती बेटी थी और माता-पिता एक हादसे में स्वर्ग सिधार चुके थे । दूर की चचेरी बहन थी सीमा की, ब्याह होने के बाद व्यस्त वो भी अपनी गृहस्थी में ।
कुछ दिन अच्छे से बीते, सीमा राजेश से बोल रही थी, कि वह अभी बच्चा नहीं चाहती, अपनी गृहस्थी व्यवस्थित हों जाने दो, फिर सोचेंगे बच्चे के बारे में । लेकिन राजेश ने नहीं सुनी, उसके मन में कुछ और योजना थी । राजेश कुछ सोच कर सीमा से बोला, अपनी आयु के अनुसार पहला बच्चा जितना जल्दी हो उतना ही पालन करना आसान होता है । बस सीमा राजी हो गई ।
सीमा ने जल्दी ही गुड न्यूज सुनाई । राजेश ने अपनी माँ से कहा सीमा की डिलीवरी होने तक यहीं रहो । सीमा ने डॉक्टर की सलाह लेते हुए अपना ध्यान भी रख रही थी और ड्यूटी पर भी जा रही थी । आखिर वो दिन भी आ ही गया, सीमा ने फूल जैसी बेटी को जन्म दिया, राजेश के मन की मुराद पूरी हो गई । दोनों ने बेटी का नाम पम्मी रखा ।
धीरे - धीरे सब कुछ सामान्य हो चला था कि राजेश की माँ को इनके साथ रहना नहीं था सो उन्होंने अपनी तैयारी कर ली बड़े बेटे के साथ जाने की । जबकि राजेश ने माँ को रोकने की कोशिश भी की और कहा कि सीमा अब ड्यूटी जाएगी माँ और पम्मी की देखभाल आपकी देखरेख में आया करेगी और बाकी काम के लिए भी बाई लगा लेंगे । पर माँ ने नहीं सुनी बोली मैं बंध कर नहीं रह सकती "तुम लोगों ने क्या मेरे से पूछ कर बच्चा पैदा किया था"। नौकरी अपने दम पर करते हो बच्चे भी खुद ही पालो । और बोली बहु को बोल नौकरी छोड़ दें, घर संभाले ।
इसी उधेड़बुन में राजेश ने कुछ भी विचार नहीं करते हुए सीमा को फैसला सुना दिया कि पम्मी कुछ परवरिश के लिए वह नौकरी छोड़ दें। पम्मी को भी गुस्सा आया और बोली राजेश मैं आपसे पहले ही कह रही थी बच्चे की अभी जल्दबाजी मत करो, पर आपने सुनी नहीं। आजकल की महंगाई में गुजारा कहां होता है, हमने मिलकर क्या क्या सपने देखे थे और दोनों कुछ अनबन में बात तलाक तक पहुंचीं । अक्सर यही होता है इन सभी के बीच उस नन्ही सी पम्मी का क्या कसूर ???
सीमा और राजेश दोनों के ही द्वारा बिना सोचे समझे तलाक़ के लिए अर्जी दी जाती है । कोर्ट एक फरमान जारी करता है कि आप दोनों को 6 माह की अवधि दी जाती है, आप बच्चे के भविष्य को संवारने की दृष्टि से सोच लें, नहीं तो बाद में पछताना पड़ेगा ।
लेकिन इस अफरातफरी में ये क्या हो गया पम्मी को तेज बुखार आ गया । सीमा ने लाख कोशिश की उसे दवाई दे कर, कुछ खिलाकर सुलाने की "पर सब कोशिश बेकार " । उस बेचारी नासमझ मासुम सी पम्मी को क्या पता उसके माता-पिता अलग-अलग रह रहे हैं । वो तो बेचारी पापा की रट लगा रही थी । फिर डॉक्टर की सलाह पर पम्मी को वह पापा के पास ले गई और पम्मी ने अपने माता-पिता के गले लगकर रोते हुए कहा आप लोग मत लड़ो न..... साथ में रहो न.... सीमा और राजेश एक दूसरे को निहार रहे थे और अपने प्यारे दिनों की याद में खो से गए और आखिरकार पम्मी की जीत हुई ।
अधिकतर परिवार में कुछ ऐसे ही होता है, हम अपने अहम् में छोटे बच्चों की तरफ ध्यान ही नहीं देते हैं और फूल सा परिवार बिखर जाता है ।
समस्त सम्माननीय पाठकों से निवेदन है कि आप बताइएगा जरूर आपको यह कहानी कैसी लगी ।
धन्यवाद आपका ।
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Fertility Blood Tests for Men and Women
Blood tests are essential to determine fertility in both men and women, and thus for consecutive treatment. There are numerous blood tests for fertility, however, your doctor will decide which blood test you need based on your pre-pregnancy situation.
Common Blood Tests for Fertility
Blood tests to determine male fertility and female fertility may not always be the same. Let’s look at a few common fertility blood tests for men and women, which are necessary during the first few months of pregnancy.
1. Blood Type and Rh
This test checks your blood group and Rh which is done as part of infectious disease screening.
When and Why is The Test Done?
This fertility test should be done during the first trimester of pregnancy. Rh incompatibilities between a man and woman’s blood may lead to complications in the baby.
Who Should Take The Test?
Both the man and woman should get this test done to identify incompatibilities.
What Do The Test Results Mean?
There are 4 blood types – A, B, O and AB along with two Rh types (positive and negative). This test will determine which blood group and Rh factor you carry.
What Next?
If you are Rh positive and your partner is Rh negative, the doctor will give you medicines that will prevent the formation of antibodies during pregnancy.
2. Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH)
The FSH is a hormone which is made by the pituitary gland. In women, this hormone stimulates follicle production in the ovary while in men, it stimulates the testicles to produce sperm.
When and Why is The Test Done?
This test is usually done in women on the 2nd, 3rd or 4th day of their menstrual cycle to check their ovary function while in men, it is done to check their testicular function.
Who Should Take The Test?
People above the age of 35 should take this test. Also, women who show symptoms of ovarian failure and men who show signs of testicular failure.
What Do The Test Results Mean?
High levels of FSH in women may mean ovarian failure. The reason is that if the function of the ovary decreases, the pituitary gland is forced to make more FSH in order to stimulate follicle production. In men, high FSH levels may indicate testicular dysfunction.
What Next?
Your doctor will study your test results and recommend the best treatment option available for you to increase pregnancy chances.
3. Anticardiolipin Antibodies
Cardiolipin is responsible for regulating the clotting of blood in your body. In some cases, your body can recognize this molecule as foreign and attack it with anticardiolipin antibodies. They are of three types – IgG, IgA, and IgM.
When and Why is The Test Done?
If you have had a miscarriage, then your doctor will advise you to get this blood test done. It can be done anytime during your cycle but not in the middle of a miscarriage.
Who Should Take The Test?
People who are infertile, have AIDS or Lupus need to take this test.
What Do The Test Results Mean?
If your results are abnormal, they may indicate higher levels of these antibodies in your blood. This may cause the formation of small blood clots in the placenta, lessening blood flow from mother to foetus.
What Next?
Your doctor will first tell you to do the test twice to get accurate results. If the results are abnormal, then he will prescribe medication to prevent any possible blood clots.
4. Estradiol
Estradiol is a type of oestrogen produced by the ovaries and does the function of thickening the uterine lining and stimulating ovulation.
When and Why is The Test Done?
This test can be done at different times during the menstrual cycle. It measures the level of estradiol in your blood and is done in women over 35 years of age along with a 3rd Day FSH test to determine ovarian function. The estradiol levels are also measured regularly during stimulation of gonadotropin to optimize the dosage.
Who Should Take The Test?
A high level of estradiol on Day 3 can indicate poor ovarian function. Patients who are taking fertility medication need to have their estradiol levels checked so that the medication effectiveness can be evaluated and adjusted if need be.
What Do The Test Results Mean?
The test results how well you are responding to ovarian stimulation and/or the correct dosage of gonadotropin that has to be given to increase the development of follicles.
What Next?
Your doctor will review results and recommend treatment options to improve a successful pregnancy.
5. Infectious Disease Screening
If a patient is undergoing in-vitro fertilization (IVF) or intra-uterine insemination (IUI) then they are required to go through an infectious disease screening.
When and Why is The Test Done?
The tests need to be done every 12 months and are done to check for any communicable diseases. The various tests are done to check for: Blood type and Rh factor, HIV 1 and 2, Hepatitis C Antibody, Hepatitis B Surface Antigen, Hepatitis B Core Antibody, RPR (Syphilis), Varicella (chicken pox), and Rubella (German measles).
Who Should Take The Test?
Both men and women should take this test if they are undergoing IUI and IVF cycles.
What Do The Test Results Mean?
It indicates whether or not you carry any of the above infectious diseases and/or Rh incompatibilities.
What Next?
For patients who are undergoing third-party reproduction, there are few more additional tests are needed.
6. Cystic Fibrosis
Cystic fibrosis is a genetic disorder caused by different mutations in the gene in chromosome 7. It regulates the production of a protein called cystic fibrosis transmembrane regulator.
When and Why is The Test Done?
This test can be done anytime in life to check for this abnormality in your gene.
Who Should Take The Test?
Every couple trying to get pregnant should take this test. Men with no sperm in their semen analysis may test positive for this disease.
What Do The Test Results Mean?
This test will tell you whether you and/or your partner carry the mutation which causes cystic fibrosis and can be passed on to the child.
What Next?
If you or your partner test positive, then genetic screening can be done before IVF implantation which allows transfer of normal embryos or those that are just carriers.
7. Luteinizing Hormone (LH)
LH is a hormone which stimulates ovulation and production of progesterone in women. In men, it stimulates the testes to secrete testosterone.
When and Why is The Test Done?
This test is done before attempting pregnancy to check for ovulation in women so that the timing of sexual intercourse or IUI can be set. It can also be done to check for PCOS and ovarian failure. In men, it is done to check the testicular function.
Who Should Take The Test?
Every couple should take this test, as abnormal levels of LH hint infertility.
What Do The Test Results Mean?
Low levels of LH may mean your ovulation is not happening.
What Next?
If an LH surge is not detected, then your doctor can inject you with medication so that your process of ovulation can begin.
8. Progesterone
Progesterone is necessary for ovulation and subsequent pregnancy. It prepares the uterine lining so that implantation can occur.
When and Why is The Test Done?
This test is done 7 days before your expected period or 7 days after ovulation to determine if normal ovulation has occurred.
Who Should Take The Test?
Women who have a history of miscarriages, ovarian dysfunction or who have bleeding or spotting during early pregnancy should take this test.
What Do The Test Results Mean?
Progesterone levels will rise during ovulation and peak 7 days after. They will fall post that, reaching a low after 13-14 days. If you are not pregnant, then you will start your period once progesterone levels fall to 2-3ng/ml. If you are pregnant, then the levels will rise 10-12 days after ovulation.
What Next?
If your progesterone levels show that ovulation is not happening, then your doctor can prescribe medication to induce ovulation.
9. Prolactin
Prolactin regulates the production of breast milk.
When and Why is The Test Done?
This test is done on fasting after abstaining from breast stimulation or sexual intercourse for 24 hours prior. It has to be done to check for ovulatory dysfunction as too much prolactin can affect ovulation.
Who Should Take The Test?
Women who have irregular menstrual cycles or milky discharge from the breast are advised to take this test.
What Do The Test Results Mean?
A high level of prolactin may indicate a tumour in the pituitary gland.
What Next?
You will need oral medication if you have high prolactin levels.
10. Lupus Anticoagulant
Lupus anticoagulant is a protein that causes your blood to clot abnormally.
When and Why is The Test Done?
This test can be done in women anytime during their cycle, except when in middle of a miscarriage, to check for these antibodies as they may prevent a successful pregnancy due to blood clots.
Who Should Take The Test?
Anyone can have these antibodies in their bloodstream, but people who are infertile or have AIDS or Lupus are prone to have higher levels which is why they need to take the test.
What Do The Test Results Mean?
The test involves two tests called Modified Russell Viper Venom Time and Activated Partial Thromboplastin Time which see how long it takes your blood to clot. If it is a longer clotting time, then that can mean you have lupus anticoagulant in your blood.
What Next?
Your doctor will first tell you to take the test twice to get accurate results. If the results are abnormal, then he will prescribe medication to prevent any possible blood clots.
11. Quantitative hCG
This is a pregnancy test called beta hCG.
When and Why is The Test Done?
HCG levels are indicative of pregnancy and done 7-10 days after a missed period. When pregnancy is failing, the levels are again monitored. If pregnancy is healthy, hCG levels will rise till 10-12 weeks after conception and then fall.
Who Should Take The Test?
Women who want to confirm their pregnancy.
What Do The Test Results Mean?
A test result of more than 5 indicates positive pregnancy. Men and non-pregnant women should have no hCG detected.
What Next?
Women with positive results will be monitored by the doctor for a few weeks to make sure that the pregnancy is healthy.
12. Thyroid Stimulating Hormone (TSH)
TSH secrete T3 and T4 thyroid hormones after simulating the thyroid gland.
When and Why is The Test Done?
This test can be done anytime during your cycle when you are on fasting to check for thyroid disease.
Who Should Take The Test?
If you have irregular periods or if your doctor suspects something wrong with your thyroid gland, then you will have to take this test.
What Do The Test Results Mean?
High levels of TSH show that thyroid hormones are not produced (hypothyroidism) and cause weight gain, tiredness, and a cold feeling while low levels show hyperthyroidism causing weight loss, anxiety and feeling of being warm. Both can disrupt ovulation.
What Next?
Doctors will prescribe medication to regulate the thyroid levels in case of an underactive or overactive thyroid.
These tests are extremely useful if you find that you are taking a long time to get pregnant and can in many cases be a godsend to find out the root of the problem.
Also Read: Types of Female Fertility Tests Read more
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Rolling In The New Year During Pregnancy
Being pregnant during the holiday season can put a dampener on festive celebrations, especially when everyone else is getting ready to usher in the New Year. So given that you can’t partake in all the merrymaking, here’s how to celebrate New Year’s Eve when you are expecting.
When you’re pregnant there are so many things you can’t do and partying the night away is one of them. With a bloated belly, swollen feet and other problems that plague one during pregnancy it’s completely out of the question. But that doesn't mean you should shut yourself away when the bell tolls to ring in the New Year! These alternative ways of celebrating New Year’s Eve can be as much fun, if not more, than the crazy parties of your college days!
4 Tips to Celebrate New Year’s Eve for Pregnant Women
1. Have a Gathering at Home
Host a party at your home and bring in the New Year with close family and friends, and kick back a glass of orange juice on your cushy rocking chair. You can host a pre-party with your club-going friends early in the night, and then have a quite New Year's countdown with your partner. If you’ve got friends who like you are expecting or already have kids, you can also host a baby party at home. It’s one of the best ways to spend New Year’s Eve during pregnancy especially since you all are sailing in the same boat. So let the kids enjoy themselves while you grownups have fun too.
2. Enjoy a Romantic Evening With Hubby
Indulge in a romantic evening with your husband on New Year’s Eve. After all, when the baby arrives, moments like these will be hard to come by. So enjoy every moment as you cuddle up on the sofa watching a classic Black and White movie, or devour a gourmet meal in a fancy restaurant together.
3. Go on a Short Vacation
If you feel up to it and you’ve got your doctor’s permission, there’s nothing like going on a romantic holiday with your significant other to welcome in the New Year. It can be a short weekend holiday vacation in a peaceful location somewhere close by - like a secluded beach or a czy cabin in the woods!
4. Spend Time In Prayer
There’s plenty to be thankful for on New Year’s Eve and plenty more to pray for as the New Year makes its way in. Spending time in prayer allows you to look back on the past year on all the many blessings showered upon you and your family, your journey into motherhood being the biggest blessing of them all. Giving the parties a miss and attending a Church service or any other religious function is a fulfilling way of spending your New Year’s Eve.
Whatever option you choose, play along and create new traditions of celebrating the holidays. Once you enter motherhood, your life will be vastly different from the one you used to lead. So embrace the change and take delight in your new traditions! Read more
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Lupus during pregnancy
All pregnancies are not smooth and many pregnant women may experience complications during pregnancy and lupus during pregnancy is one such condition. Any kind of complication may scare you in pregnancy, and it is very normal to be concerned about your unborn baby’s health. Are you worried whether you will have a healthy pregnancy and childbirth if you have lupus in pregnancy? You should browse through the following article because we will discuss everything you need to know about lupus and how you can effectively manage your pregnancy with lupus.
What Is Lupus?
Lupus is a chronic condition, which occurs due to the malfunctioning of the immune system. This condition usually affects the women who are in their child-bearing or reproductive age. However, if you are developing lupus during pregnancy, this does not mean that you will not be able to have a healthy pregnancy and childbirth.
What Are the Causes of Lupus?
There is not much scientific evidence available on what causes lupus. But it is believed that lupus is usually caused due to genetic, hormonal, or environmental causes.
Getting Pregnant with Lupus
If you have this immune malfunctioning disorder, it becomes very important for you to get it in control before you get pregnant because lupus pregnancy could lead to fatal consequences. It is important that you exhibit no symptoms for at least five to six months before you start planning your baby because lupus and pregnancy is a lethal combination and it may lead to miscarriage or other pregnancy-related complications.
What Are the Symptoms of Lupus in Pregnancy?
What if lupus flare during pregnancy? Here are some commonly observed lupus symptoms that you help you take an informed action:
You may notice painless ulcers in your mouth and nose.
You may develop a rash after being in the sun for a longer duration; it is also called photosensitive rash.
You may have a discoid rash, which is itchy and flaky and mostly appears on the ears and scalp. This may even make you lose some hair.
You may develop a butterfly rash that is visible on your cheekbones and on the bridge of your nose.
You may experience difficulty in breathing and chest pain.
Your fingers may turn blue or pale due to low blood circulation.
You may experience joint pains and swelling.
How Common Is Lupus in Pregnant Women?
If you are Asian, African, or Native American, then you are more likely to suffer from lupus than people from other ethnicities. Lupus not only affects women but it affects males too, but the percentage of the males getting affected with lupus is fairly low. It is seen that 1 out of every 250 women, who are in their reproductive prime (14-45 years), is likely to be get affected by lupus.
How Is the Diagnosis Done?
The symptoms of lupus are very similar to various other diseases. Therefore, in order to reach the correct diagnosis, your doctor may do lupus anticoagulant test in pregnancy, and other tests may include the following:
Blood tests
Urine tests
A biopsy
Physical examination
On the basis of above-mentioned tests, your doctor will be able to diagnose lupus.
Treatment and Medication
If lupus remains in remission during your entire pregnancy, you may not need any medication for all nine months of pregnancy. However, if your symptoms resurface, then your doctor will administer you the medicines which are safe in pregnancy. There is prescribed course for the treatment of lupus as the symptoms and severity may vary in every case.
You will be closely monitored by your doctor throughout your pregnancy, and you may even have to go through various tests (urine and blood) on each visit. Your doctor will check your baby’s heartbeat, and you may be asked about your symptoms, to decide upon the further course of medication. Here are some commonly used medicines to treat lupus during pregnancy:
Hydroxychloroquine/Plaquenil
Methotrexate and cyclophosphamide/Cytoxan
However, it is recommended not to take any medicines on your own and always talk to your doctor if you experience any lupus symptoms.
How Lupus Affects Pregnancy?
It is observed that women who conceive during the time when lupus is in remission, do better in their pregnancy as compared to women who get pregnant during the flared-up state. There are many risks associated with lupus that may cause complication in pregnancy.
Complications of Pregnancy
Here are some pregnancy complications that may get caused due to lupus:
Miscarriage
Stillbirth
Higher risks of premature or preterm delivery
HELLP Syndrome - a rare liver disorder that causes severe blood-clotting
Preeclampsia - high pressure and lupus put you at a higher risk of getting affected by it
Effects of Lupus on Unborn Baby
Most mothers with lupus usually deliver healthy babies, but there is no denying that there are risks involved in its pregnancy. However, it is very unlikely that if you have lupus, then your baby will have it too. Though the best that you can do to minimize the risks for you and your baby is by conceiving during the quiet period (when the disease is in remission). It is suggested to talk to your doctor before you start planning your baby to avoid any complications.
How Can Pregnancy Affect Lupus?
Where some women may experience no lupus symptoms during their entire pregnancy, others may experience mild to moderate symptoms. In some cases, women may experience a complete change in their symptoms or experience reduced symptoms. Every woman may experience different effects of lupus on their pregnancy. However, it is seen women who become pregnant during the quiet period of the disease are less likely to experience any flare-ups during their pregnancy. It is also seen that sometimes women may get confused with lupus and pregnancy symptoms such as pains and aches. It is very important that your report even the mildest symptoms to your doctor to avoid complications.
Can You Prevent Lupus?
Sadly, lupus cannot be prevented, but you can take various measures to control your symptoms.
Tips for Safe Pregnancy and Healthy Baby
If you have lupus, it does not mean that you cannot conceive and have a healthy pregnancy. Though women with lupus have high-risk pregnancies, with proper treatment and other measures, they can become pregnant and have a hassle-free pregnancy too.
Before Pregnancy
Here are few things that you should do before your plan to get pregnant:
Get in touch with the various set of doctors such as rheumatologist, phrenologist, lupus specialist, paediatric cardiologists, and various other doctors and talk about your risks associated with getting pregnant.
Your set of doctors will determine various possible complications that you may face during your pregnancy.
Your medication may be changed, or you may get switched over to milder medicines to prepare your body for the upcoming pregnancy.
Plan your pregnancy during the period of remission to reduce any further complications and risks.
During Pregnancy
Here are some tips that may come handy during your pregnancy:
Go for regular check-ups and visit your doctor regularly.
Do not ignore any signs or symptoms that you may suspect and seek your doctor’s advice at the earliest.
It is very important to have adequate rest if you have lupus during pregnancy. Pregnancy exerts pressure on your body and lupus can drain you further.
Prepare yourself mentally for various complications that may arise such as, premature delivery.
How Can You Care for Yourself during Pregnancy?
Lupus may strain you; therefore it is very important that you take good care of yourself during pregnancy to feel energized and active. Get ample rest and plan to have a couple of naps during the day and a peaceful night’s sleep.
Refrain from consuming alcohol and quit smoking.
Make sure you eat a healthy balanced diet to provide your body with adequate nutrition.
As soon as you notice any abnormal symptoms that are not pregnancy related, talk to your doctor about the same.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about lupus pregnancy risk:
1. Can Lupus Patients Have a Successful Pregnancy?
Yes, it is possible for you to have a successful pregnancy. However, it is very important that you learn about when you should get pregnant and also what probable risks you may face during your pregnancy.
2. Can a Mother with Lupus Breastfeed her Baby?
Yes, you can feed your baby comfortably, even if you have lupus. It may take you a few days to get comfortable with the correct feeding technique. You may ask your nurse or midwife to help you learn about the correct breastfeeding technique.
While lupus cannot be prevented, there are methods such as lifestyle changes in your lifestyle that can keep it under control.
Also Read: Common Pregnancy Problems Read more
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Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. @ the time of birth baby weight 2.475kg but after completed 6weeks baby weight approx 3kg, why baby weight gain very slow, till breast-feeding milk and urinate 6-7 times and potty 2-3 times. can u please suggest why slow in progress in weight gain???
Read moreDr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. the average birth weight of neonates is about 3 kg.
during the first few days after birth, the newborn loses
extracellular fluid equivalent to about 10% of the body
weight.
most infants regain their birth weight by the age of 10 days. subsequently, they gain weight at a rate of
approximately 25 to 30 g per day for the first 3 months of life.
thereafter they gain about 400 g weight every month,
for the remaining part of the first year. x
an infant usually doubles his birth weight (taken as 3 kg) by the age of 5 months. the birth weight triples at 1 year and is four times at 2 years of age.
the weight of ca child at the age of three years is usually
five times that of the birth weight.
Manisha Singh has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
2 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert mera baby 3 month ka h use gas bhuat banti h is karan wo bhuat rota hai
Manisha Singh
Expecting Mom due in 1 month
2 hours ago
A. it's very common for babies having gas problem ...you should recommend your doctor for this
Sai Prasanthi R L has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
2 hours ago
Q. Hi
what to give 6 months old baby to eat
Sai Prasanthi R L
Mom of a 10 yr 2 m old boy
2 hours ago
A. Hello dear! Once your baby completes 6 months you can start giving small quantities of semi solids like homemade cerelac, mashed bananas, apple puree, ragi and so on. Continue with breastfeeding. Keep Babyhug tummy roll on handy
Dr Muhsina has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
1 hour ago
Q. now I am in 30 weeks of pregnancy I have vomiting.I couldn't control what the reasons for this vomiting
Dr Muhsina
Expecting Mom due in 3 months
1 hour ago
A. Some women may have vomiting throughout their pregnancy. The most common reason for vomiting during the third trimester may be gastritis. Make sure you eat small frequent meals, preferably every 2 hours. If your baby's weight during checkups are adequate..u needn't worry much about this. You can also consult your doctor and take anti emetics and PPIs if the vomiting is bothering you or interfering with your daily activities.
POOJA KOTHARI has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 mins ago
Q. Is it okay is the baby does not pass stool for one day?
POOJA KOTHARI
Mom of a 7 yr 1 m old boy
2 mins ago
A. For breastfed infants it depends on age. During the first month of life, stooling less than once a day might mean your newborn isn't eating enough. However, breastfed infants may go several days or even a week between bowel movements, using every drop they eat to make more baby, not poop.
POOJA KOTHARI has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
New Question
Q. Is it okay if my baby does not pass stool for one day?
POOJA KOTHARI
Mom of a 7 yr 1 m old boy
New Answer
A. Yes it is ok dont worry.
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