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Inducing Labour with Membrane (Cervical) Sweep
As your delivery due date is nearing, your anxiousness and excitement are increasing. You can expect your labour pain anytime. Typically, after the completion of 40 weeks, pregnant women experience labour pains. But, in some cases, contractions are not experienced even after the due date. In such scenarios, a manual procedure is done to induce contractions. A membrane sweep is the first and the most basic procedure that is done by doctors, nurses, or midwives to stimulate labour pains.
What Is A Membrane Sweep?
A membrane sweep or cervical sweep is a manual process used to stimulate the cervix. The doctor or midwife will insert a gloved finger, feel the cervix of a full-term pregnant woman, and gently but firmly move the finger around. This sweeping of the thin membranes of the amniotic sac is also called stripping the membrane. Sweeping the membrane separates the sac from the cervix and helps in releasing prostaglandins (hormones which might induce labour pains). Membrane stripping is also referred to as the 'stretch and sweep' process because if sweeping is not required, stretching of the cervix is done to manually stimulate the cervix.
How Is It Done?
The pregnant woman is asked to lie down in a position wherein the feet are together and the knees are on either side (the lithotomy position). When the woman is comfortable, the doctor inserts a finger (which is gloved) into the vagina. By feeling the cervix, the doctor gently sweeps inside the cervical region. As discussed earlier, this sweep and stretch process separates the amniotic sac from the cervix and aids in the release of the prostaglandins hormones. The release of these hormones induces pains and leads to labour and childbirth. Membrane stripping procedure is a basic and commonly used method because it does not include any medication.
Is Membrane Stripping Safe?
Studies indicate that membrane stripping does not have any major risks and is considered safe. According to a study published in the Journal of Clinical Gynecology & Obstetrics:
There were no negative side effects due to membrane stripping.
Women who have membrane stripping done are not likely to experience complications during labour.
Is Membrane Sweeping Effective?
Expert researchers find it difficult to conclude whether membrane sweeping is effective or not. Various studies have been conducted to analyse the effectiveness of membrane sweeping. One such review concluded that the effectiveness depends on the gestational period, when the procedure is done, and also whether the women have used other methods to induce labour.
For pregnant women who have overshot their due date, this procedure can be very effective. It was also found that women who have had the procedure done went on to experience labour pains and delivered soon. However, it is important to note that membrane sweeping might not be as effective as other methods or procedures where medications are used. So, membrane stripping can be considered to be an effective option in scenarios when there is no urgent medical reason to induce labour pains using medications.
When Is It Offered?
Extension of pregnancy might affect the health of the baby and the mother. After forty-two weeks, your placenta might not be in a good position to supply adequate oxygen and food to the baby, thus endangering or affecting the baby's growth. So, your doctor might suggest a membrane stripping in the following cases:
You have crossed the due date and still haven’t experienced labour pangs. Ideally, it would be after completing your 40th week in pregnancy.
Typically, for first-time mothers, if the labour doesn’t start in the 41st week, a membrane sweep becomes necessary.
For women who have already delivered earlier, doctors advise a membrane sweep if the labour pain doesn’t come up even after 42 weeks.
There is an emergency, and the baby must be delivered soon.
When Should You Avoid It?
Doctors avoid doing a membrane sweeping in the following cases:
If the pregnant woman is bleeding.
If women have a B-strep infection, membrane stripping can worsen the existing situation.
If the woman cannot go for a vaginal delivery due to a medical complication.
Membrane Stripping Risks
Membrane stripping has some risks such as rupturing the amniotic sac thereby exposing the baby to possible infections. You might also experience some cramping 24 hours after stripping which can disturb your sleep before going into labour.
Pros
Following are some of the advantages of membrane stripping:
It is a natural procedure and does not involve any medicines.
It reduces the chances of C-section by inducing labour.
The procedure is quite simple and can be done by a midwife too.
Usually, there is not much intervention required after a membrane sweep procedure.
Cons
Following are some of the disadvantages of membrane stripping:
It is not always effective and might require sweeping a couple of times to induce labour.
It should not be done if vaginal birth is not advised by the doctor.
It is uncomfortable as the cervix might be located deep inside and may not be reachable.
There are possibilities that the water bag might break during the procedure, thereby exposing the baby to infections.
Is It Painful?
Membrane sweeping is not painful, but it is definitely uncomfortable. The procedure lasts for only 5 to 10 minutes and can become easier with relaxation techniques and breathing exercises. If you are not fully convinced about the procedure, you can choose other methods to induce labour pain.
What Happens After Cervical Swab?
Cervical sweep or cervical swab is not a pleasant experience and might be uncomfortable. The cervix has a lot of blood vessels, so you might feel sore or experience some bleeding after the procedure. In case of heavy bleeding, do contact you doctor and ensure that you go to the hospital immediately.
Some Important Facts Associated with Membrane Sweep
Following are some important facts regarding membrane stripping:
Restlessness
Stripping of membrane can cause restlessness in some women. It is advised that you take a lot of rest after membrane stripping as you might be anxious about being overdue.
Discomfort
Some discomfort can be felt after membrane stripping as the cervix is difficult to reach in full-term pregnancies. It could also be painful in some cases. You can do some basic breathing exercises to relax yourself during the procedure. Some women experience mild spotting and irregular contractions after the procedure.
Going past your due date
It is quite unusual for women to go past 42 weeks of pregnancy. Normally, 41 weeks is the maximum time limit for a normal delivery, but 3 in every 100 women go past 41 weeks. In this case, the doctor will try membrane stripping to induce labour naturally.
In many cases, labour pains occur on or before the due date. However, in cases where it is delayed and doctors think that labour must be induced, then membrane sweeping is the most common procedure that is done. Although it might sound uncomfortable and can frighten you, you can always talk to your doctor and decide on what's the most suitable option for you and the baby. Remember that extending your pregnancy can be risky, so it's always best to consult an expert medical practitioner and follow his/her advice. Read more
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Talking to your Kids About Domestic Violence
Millions of kids around the world are exposed to domestic violence. As a parent, talking about domestic violence with your children is absolutely necessary, if you or they have borne witness to it. Learn how to get them to open up about an issue that's frightening them and is very real.
From time immemorial, domestic violence is an issue that has plagued and still continues to plague the society. Perhaps, the biggest victims of this kind of violence are children whose parents or guardians have criminal tendencies, have gone through an incarceration or use drugs and alcohol excessively. The innocence and sense of security of such kids, who have either seen or have been a victim of domestic violence, gets shattered after going through the ruckus. Therefore, as a parent or a guardian, it's your responsibility to discuss the issue with the kid, in case you unravel that he/she has borne witness to it. But, first let's look at how domestic violence can impact kids.
Impact On Kids Exposed to Domestic Violence
You may take the pains to protect your children from domestic violence. You may even try to shield them from seeing you suffer, if you are the victim. However, the truth remains that most children will at least hear what's going on. Not only will this be frightening for them, but it can turn their world upside down. Here's a look at the impact of domestic violence on children:
1. Physical Effects
Complaints of stomach aches, headaches and bed-wetting are common among kids who experience or witness domestic abuse. They can have poor eating habits and may exhibit unnatural or frequent tiredness. Difficulty while sleeping is also common. Children may also self-harm and harbour suicidal tendencies.
2. Emotional Effects
The emotional effects of domestic violence on children can be extreme. Anxiety and depression are common, as are aggression and low self-esteem. Kids can exhibit animosity toward the aggressor and even the victim for that matter for failing to stop the violence. They may face difficulties in concentrating on studies, which can eventually lead to poor grades. This can further exacerbate the already jarred feelings of low confidence, reduced self-esteem and frustration.
Talking About Domestic Violence
It's very important to speak to your children if they or you have been a victim of domestic violence. Understand that domestic violence can take many forms. Physical assault is just one of them. Verbal, emotional, sexual and even abuse for economic or financial reasons constitutes domestic violence.
1. Initiate The Talk
Children may not want or know how to broach the topic. You can initiate a discussion by letting them know you're ready to listen. Don't force it out of them; rather, give them time to talk about it. With time, you'll notice that the child opens up to speaking his heart out.
2. Get to The Facts
Try to find out what they've seen or heard. The more you know, the better you can talk about domestic violence. Keep in mind the age of your child at all times. The conversation you have with a teen can't be the same as that with a five year old.
3. Keep Your Emotions in Check
Children are very alert to the emotions of others. If you're not feeling put-together enough to talk about domestic violence, don't. A calm attitude is absolutely necessary as your children should be made to feel that you're in control.
4. Stop The Conversation on Time
Don't drag the talk just because you want to get everything out in the open. Children may be willing to discuss only so much, while very young kids will have a shorter attention span. You can always talk more at a later time.
Domestic violence is a tricky issue to discuss with children. However, that should never stop you from talking about it. Kids should be made to feel that they can open up and that they have a solid support system in you and in other people they trust. Read more
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Bengaluru Mom Who Went From 120kgs to 67kgs Shares Her Weight Loss Secret + Recipe
“Sleepless nights, dark circles, restricted, monitored diets - my princess is going to change me completely I bet! Being mommy is not easy…” All moms certainly agree! Life changes completely after you become a mom and so does your body! Your belly is no longer toned and there is more flab on your body than ever before. Worse still, losing this fat is a stubborn, upsetting experience as nothing you do seems to make the weighing scale budge. But away in Bengaluru, one mom is inspiring all of us and reassuring us that post-pregnancy weight loss is indeed possible. This is her true story of coming down from 120 kgs to 67 kgs – read it to believe it and see how she did it!
There was a time not long ago when Kiran Bharatesh weighed a full 120kgs. She had put on so many kilos that losing this extra weight would have daunted any woman. All moms know how difficult it is to lose weight after your pregnancy, especially the fat on your belly, hips and thighs. Many women try sporadic dieting and exercise and then eventually lose heart. Perhaps being overweight is a side effect of being a mom. Perhaps this is their new body type and nothing can be done about it.
But Kiran did not lose heart.
From 120 kgs she went to 77kgs! And then she came down to 67kgs! Her journey continues – a journey not just of weight loss but of staying fit, energetic and happy. So how did Kiran do it? Can you follow in her footsteps? Definitely! Read below, the message she shared with moms on Facebook and we bet it will be the answer to the weight loss problem you have been long fighting!
This is her story of before, after and thereafter.
“Get on to your shoes. Start running. Hold a skipping rope. Jump between your routine-work. Stop eating the leftover food from kids’ plates and whining ‘Or else food will be wasted’. (Take) absolutely no shortcuts. Sheer vegetarian diet. Workout. And madness.
Stop feeling insecure and thinking ‘People will ridicule me if I start running or working out in gym looking at my tyres juggling faster than my feet.’ Close your eyes and trust me, people. The same people, the same crowd who ridiculed, will go speechless...will just stand up and applaud.
Last but not the least…why do something for those people? Do it for yourself. It feels (like) heaven!"
[caption id="attachment_166550" align="alignnone" width="1024"] Source: https://www.facebook.com/Dr.Kiran.Bharatesh?pnref=story[/caption]
Aside from Kiran’s resolve and physical exercise, there was something else that helped her along. Kiran consumes this magical weight loss drink that actually melts away the kilos! She shares with us the recipe below – completely natural and safe – and recommends consuming it twice a day.
1 spoon tea powder
1 spoon pepper powder
The Recipe
Take equal quantity of tea and pepper powder.
Mix these powders with water and set to boil.
Add a little milk and sugar (optional).
Strain and sip along.
Turns out, many experts agree with her weight loss drink! Pepper has been proven to curb your appetite, speed up metabolism and burn calories. It’s also an inexpensive and simple drink to put together. You should, however, check with your doctor before starting any new regimen as a precautionary measure.
Thank you for inspiring us all, Kiran! Your fitness story is indeed an achievement and makes us believe that we too can do it, if we only set our heart to it. Take some time out for yourself, moms, and get started with your own weight loss journey as well. Your family will respect you more for it and even help you along. Remember - only when you are fit and happy can you help keep your household happy! Read more
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Watermelon- A Wholesome Fruit With Healthy Goodness
Watermelon is everyone's favourite fruit in the summers. It belongs to the family of pumpkin and squash. Watermelon is loaded with vitamins, minerals, fibres, and plant compounds, and is extremely beneficial for health. Here are some benefits about watermelon, you should know about.
Benefits of Watermelon
It contains 92% water, and helps us stay hydrated during summers.
One cup of Watermelon contains only 46 calories, making it a great food option for weight loss.
Watermelon is rich in vitamin C. This antioxidant property prevents free radical damage to cells and helps in cell repair.
Vitamin A present in watermelon nourishes skin and hair, and prevents skin dryness and hair fall.
Carotene, a plant compound present in it, especially beta carotene gets converted to vitamin A in the human body.
Lycopene is another plant compound present in watermelon, imparting red colour to the fruit. It has antioxidant, as well as anti-cancer properties. Lycopene improves eye health by preventing macular degeneration. It also regulates cholesterol levels and improves heart health.
Citrulline is an amino acid present in the whitish flesh, close to the rind. It helps to relieve muscle soreness.
Cucurbitacin E, a plant compound in watermelon, has anti-inflammatory properties.
Potassium, present in watermelon, balances the effects of sodium, hence regulating blood pressure.
Watermelon is rich in Magnesium, which regulates blood sugar and improves muscle performance.
The high fibre and water content in watermelon, relieves constipation and improves digestion.
Not only the fruit, watermelon seeds have health benefits too. They are rich in iron and folates. Roasted watermelon seeds are great for weight loss.
Points to Keep in Mind While Choosing Watermelon
Choose a firm and dull appearing melon that is uniform in appearance.
Look for the yellowish field spot, which indicates that the fruit was plucked in a ripe stage.
Brownish lines on it are signs of pollination and the fruit will be sweet in taste.
Enjoy watermelon in a fruit salad, smoothie, or simply diced it into pieces, and have it as a snack, any time of the day. This is definitely one of the healthiest and tastiest fruits available!
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
8 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts
38 week delivery is Safe?
Baby weight is 2.800 kg
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
7 hours ago
A. yes safe for the delivery. 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 Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
7 hours ago
Q. Is it normal to feel hiccups in stomach like heart beating at 36 weeks?
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
7 hours ago
A. ye sits common
take rest
this will require examination and check up as well as history evaluation with the gynecologist.
please meet the doctor at your convenience for proper treatment as well as investigations if required.
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. Hi,
I delivered my baby through c section on 12th March 2024. My bleeding stopped post that after 15 days. But I observed light spotting yesterday. Is that something serious and what could be the reason?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
5 hours ago
A. ok upto six weeks. 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
Nikitha has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 1 month
4 hours ago
Q. Hello..
I am 9 month pregnant.. I want to know I have to pack in hospital bag ?
please answer
Nikitha
Mom of a 9 yr 5 m old boy
4 hours ago
A. hello you can carry the basic things like baby clothes and skin care product like babyhug and also you should carry diaper for the baby to use initially which all would be of help and you can also carry quick dry which also would be of help too
Nikitha has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
2 hours ago
Q. hello good afternoon ma'am, Mera 1st trimester khtm ho gya h ,4th month chal raha hai actually mjhe kch dino se bhuk ni lgti h ,khana dkh k Mann ni krta h khane ka toh mai aap kch solution btaye
Nikitha
Mom of a 9 yr 5 m old boy
2 hours ago
A. hello it s normal during the pregnancy and it is absolutely nothing to worry and try to have small meal frequently and avoid taking a large meal at a time which can help you and any concern you can talk with you doctor she can guide you accordingly
Abhaya Rajput has added a new answer
Mom of a 8 m old child
1 hour ago
Q. mera baby 10 month ka ho gya h abi tk khada ni ho para kya jru
Abhaya Rajput
Mom of a 14 yr 4 m old boy
1 hour ago
A. Hello there ma’am please do not worry about it too much. Babies start to stand between the age of 9 months to thirteen months. Please wait for sometime before consulting a doctor. Please give semi solid food items like banana and mashed potatoes and mashed apples to the baby. Also give suji kheer and daal paani to the baby. Continue giving formula milk to the baby. You can also give mashed idli to the baby. Masaage baby legs with BabyHug coconut oil.
Thanks and take care
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