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Vaccines for New Parents - How to Keep up With Your Own Shots After You Have a Baby
Baby clothes, nappies, crib, formula milk - these are the essentials listed on every newborn parent’s list. But what about vaccines? They might have been forgotten in the anticipation and the joy of the newborn baby. Vaccines form an integral part of the hygiene routine that every parent, grandparent and caregiver should take before they tend to the baby. It is essential for new parents to get vaccinated to maintain a certain immunity level around the newborn baby as he is too young to get started on his vaccination doses. It would be wise to talk to your doctor and get a list of vaccinations that you and your partner would need. Most of these vaccinations are available with any doctor at their clinics and can be administered by registered nurses. Check with the clinics in advance to know if they stock the vaccines that you would like to take.
Why Do New Parents Need to Be Vaccinated?
A newborn baby is too young to be vaccinated against certain diseases. As a mother, you are the first line of defence for your unborn baby, so your immunity plays a vital role in safeguarding his health. The vaccines that you take during your pregnancy and postpartum play a crucial role in safeguarding the health of your baby. All the primary caregivers should get themselves vaccinated with the annual influenza shots at least two weeks in advance before they are ready to spend time with the baby. Flu vaccine and pertussis are the most common vaccinations that are suggested for new parents. Pregnant women should take the flu shot as early in their pregnancy as possible to avoid any complications later. The antibodies that the flu vaccine generates in your body get circulated in your newborn baby's body as well, thus giving him protection in his early life. This is very effective as there is no flu vaccine available for newborn babies before they hit 6 months.
Is Getting Vaccinated While Breastfeeding Safe?
It is suggested by many doctors to keep your immunisations up-to-date as pregnant women and women who have just delivered a baby are at a higher risk of health complications. This is because the immune system, heart and all the other organs undergo a lot of change to accommodate and support a pregnancy. It is absolutely safe to get yourself vaccinated while you are breastfeeding your baby. Majority of the live viruses found in vaccines do not get transferred to human milk. Thus, you can breastfeed your baby and get vaccinated simultaneously without any problems. In fact, there is enough evidence that points out that babies who are breastfed have a better response to immunisations than babies who are formula-fed.
Vaccine Shots for Parents of a Newborn
Let us look at what vaccines new parents should get to keep them and their baby healthy.
1. TDAP
Protects Against
Whooping cough and tetanus.
Why You Need It
Tetanus, commonly known as lockjaw, is caused by bacterial infections. Diphtheria is an infection that affects the respiratory part of our body, while pertussis is known as whooping cough. The protection that you receive against these viruses through vaccination at one time fades away over time. The bacteria that causes the symptoms of lockjaw is a toxin that can cause acute muscle spasm. Newborn babies are incredibly vulnerable to these illnesses within their first six weeks as they are too young to be vaccinated. Therefore, TDAP vaccines for new parents are very important as they are the primary caregivers of the baby. The Td booster dose is supposed to be repeated after every 10 years, while the TDAP is taken only once. Also, most babies catch whooping cough mostly from someone at home. Pertussis vaccine for new parents is, therefore, necessary to provide short term immunity to the infant after his birth.
Skip If
You should consider skipping this vaccine if you are less than 20 weeks into your pregnancy. TDAP or Td can be taken when your pregnancy is in an advanced stage, or even after your baby is born.
If you have epilepsy or you are known to have Guillain-Barr syndrome. Avoid this vaccine if you suffer from any nervous disorder.
2. Hepatitis B
Protects Against
This vaccine protects you and your child against the deadly Hepatitis B disease.
Why You Need It
It is interesting to note that most people infected with Hepatitis B may not know that they suffer from it. Hepatitis B virus is life-threatening and can cause cancer and liver diseases among infants at their birth. An infected mother of a newborn baby can risk passing on the infection to the infant.
Skip If
You should avoid getting yourself vaccinated for Hepatitis B if you are extremely allergic to yeast.
3. MMR vaccine
Protects Against
As the name suggests, this vaccine will protect you against mumps, measles and rubella viruses.
Why You Need It
Measles are a highly contagious virus that spreads rapidly among those who are not vaccinated against it. Babies are at a higher risk of getting measles as they cannot be vaccinated. All these three viruses can cause congenital disabilities among babies.
Skip If
Avoid the vaccine if you are pregnant as the vaccine does carry live virus, though in a weakened form.
You are planning to conceive.
Those who are born before 1957 have already been exposed to the virus and can avoid the vaccination. A blood test can confirm your immunity.
Avoid this vaccine if you are allergic to gelatin or the antibiotic neomycin.
If you have cancer or suffer from HIV/AIDS.
You can avoid this vaccine if you have already taken 2 shots of MMR. It can also be skipped if you have taken one dose each of MMR and measles vaccine.
4. Influenza
Protects Against
Protects you and your child against flu.
Why You Need It
A number of people die every year from flu. Infants are particularly vulnerable to this dangerous virus as they can only be vaccinated against it once they are six months old.
Skip If
Avoid your flu shot if you suffer from egg allergies.
If you are pregnant, you should avoid this vaccine as it contains the live virus in a weakened form.
Those who suffer from Guillain-Barr syndrome should avoid the flu vaccine.
5. Varicella Vaccine
Protects Against
This vaccine protects you and your infant against chicken pox.
Why You Need It
Chicken pox can cause several complications like pneumonia and severe infections of the bone, blood, brain and skin. Anyone who has never had chickenpox can get infected with this virus. This is highly contagious and can pass on to your baby from you.
Skip If
Avoid the vaccine if you are pregnant as the vaccine carries live virus, though in a weakened form.
You are planning to conceive.
Skip this vaccine if you are allergic to gelatin or the antibiotic neomycin.
If your immune system is compromised due to cancer, or if you have HIV/AIDS.
6. PPSV or Pneumococcal Polysaccharide
Protects Against
It is effective against pneumonia.
Why You Need It
The pneumococcus bacteria are known to cause pneumonia, meningitis, and other blood infections. Infants, due to their low immunity are highly vulnerable to this bacterial infection.
Skip If
You can skip this vaccine if you are less than 64 years old and maintain good health.
FAQs
We will address all your queries in this section.
1. Do You Need to Ask for Vaccines in Advance?
Yes, you should ideally ask for vaccines in advance as different doctors would stock different vaccines.
2. Where Can the New Moms and Dads Get the Vaccines They Need?
Usually, your primary caregiver, OB/GYN or even your family doctor can administer the shots with the help of registered nurses. But the availability of the shots depends on the doctor’s office. Nowadays, flu vaccine is available at almost every clinic. For other vaccines like the TDAP or MMR shots, talk to your primary caregiver or your family physician. Since they track your health closely, they would also know if you need the vaccine or you have already taken it.
3. Does Insurance Cover Vaccine Shots?
Yes. Most of the vaccines are covered under insurance if they are in line with the guidelines set by the government and prescribed by your doctor.
Maintain a vaccination schedule and get yourself vaccinated as per your doctor’s recommendations. Provide your baby with the cocoon of immunity that would help him stay healthy and keep you stress-free.
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Insomnia After Childbirth
Postpartum Anaemia
Depression After Baby Delivery Read more
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8 Medical Tests You Should Do in Your 20s and 30s
Our 20s & 30s can be tricky! It is a phase when we have our hands full; looking for a new job, a better house, a decent pay are all that we have in mind, and double all that if you’re a parent! It’s an age where there are so many responsibilities piled up, that visiting a doctor for the minutest of reasons can easily skip the mind. Amidst all these responsibilities, you might think that 'chai' is well-suited for your headache instead of a fifteen-minute drive to the doctor’s clinic!
Well, think again! You never know, something that small or seemingly harmless can be an early symptom of something far worse! Early diagnosis is the key to saving time and money in the future, not to mention your health! If you’re in your 20s or 30s, you’re at the right age to get these medical tests to ensure that there is nothing unusual cooking in your body! Note that this article is not to induce fear, but to generate awareness about various health issues that men and women encounter and the importance of their early diagnosis.
Medical Tests For Men And Women in Their 20s & 30s
Here is a list of medical tests that you should definitely be scheduling in your 20s & 30s!
1. Pap Smear Test
Also known as ‘Pap Test’, this is a screening procedure for cervical cancer. The cervix is the opening of the uterus, and this test is to examine the presence of precancerous or cancer cells on the cervix. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends that sexually active women should start getting regular pap smears from the age of 21. Cervical cancer is an increasing cause of concern, especially in India, which is why women must get this test at least once every three years.
2. Mammogram
Mammography or mammogram is crucial for the early diagnosis of breast cancer. It is a screening tool used to detect and diagnose breast cancer through low-energy X-rays of the breasts. According to the National Cancer Institute, breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women, second only to skin cancer. Women in their late 20s and early 30s should make it a point to get this test done at least once every two years. Get mammography done even if your body displays no signs or symptoms of breast cancer. That’s the whole idea of early diagnosis.
3. Lipid Profile Test
A lipid profile test is a combination of experiments conducted to determine the health of the heart. It is performed to check for risks of coronary heart diseases, or as a preventive measure to assess the risks depending on factors like eating habits, diet, stress, exercise and lifestyle. Lipids are fatty substances stored in the blood and tissues of the body. Even though they help keep the body functioning normally, lipid disorders like high cholesterol might cause life-threatening conditions like strokes and heart attacks. Adults who smoke, follow an unhealthy diet, are overweight or avoid working out should get their lipid profile tested.
4. Blood Sugar Test
As the name suggests, a blood sugar test is done to examine the amount of sugar (glucose) in the blood. This test is essential to monitor and manage diabetes. Blood sugar testing must be done regularly, because there is a limited range of blood sugar level in which the brain can function normally. Also, when addressed at the right time, controlling the amount of sugar in your blood can help you avoid serious health complications like eye diseases, kidney problems, nerve problems, cerebrovascular diseases such as strokes, and cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks, heart failure and high blood pressure. You can use a glucometer to test blood sugar at home.
5. Urinalysis
Urinalysis is a standard test of your urine to detect and manage a wide range of disorders, including kidney diseases, urinary tract infections and diabetes. Doctors examine the appearance, concentration and content of the urine, as abnormal results can point towards a particular illness. In order to check your overall health, urinalysis is recommended as part of your routine medical checkup. Your 20s and 30s are ideal for getting this test. Apart from pointing (or ruling) out health complications, a sample of your urine can help in pregnancy testing and drug screening.
6. Skin Cancer Screening
Skin cancer is ever-increasing, and statistics state that it is one of the most common types of cancer across the world. To be on the safe side, it is best to keep your dermatologist on speed-dial. Frequent screenings can help detect parts of the skin that are precancerous or might develop cancer someday. Early diagnosis is the key to saving yourself from this wide-spreading disease, so, make skin cancer screening an essential part of your to-do list! It may be the most common kind of cancer, but it becomes a lot easier to treat when diagnosed early.
7. Eye Examination
You might not realise this, but your average screen time has likely increased in the past few years. It is the little things, really - continually scrolling through the apps on your phone, staying glued to your system at work, or endlessly staring at the television. All these factors can take a severe toll on your eyes and can potentially affect your vision in the future, which is why this is the right time to get your eyes tested. An eye examination is a series of tests assessing vision and the ability to focus on and discern objects. Unless you want to spend your late life behind a pair of round, thick pair of glasses, it is best to get an early diagnosis and maintain your eye health. And it’s not just about glasses; routine eye screenings can detect serious health conditions like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, and ever cancer!
8. Dental Examination
Oral hygiene is the most neglected, yet, an essential part of our health. As we grow older, our teeth and gums start acting out. Tooth decay, bad breath, stained teeth and gum diseases start taking root, and if not addressed at the right time, your dentist might have to start pulling out these teeth in the near future. So if you’re not looking at spending the last years of your life with a pair of artificial retainers, it’s crucial that you prioritise your dental health and set up routine appointments with your child dentist in your 20s! To keep your gums and teeth healthy, you can also ask your dentist for additional tips on maintaining your oral hygiene.
So there you have it - a list of appointments that you should be scheduling in the coming months! Irrespective of whether you’re a man or a woman, if you’re in your 20s or 30s, make it a point to get your body medically examined on a regular basis. It’s never too late! If you’re gifted with good health, treasure it and do everything in your power to maintain that state. Eat clean, sweat it out, and follow a balanced lifestyle!
Also Read:
Health Problems Women in Their 30’s Should Be Aware Of
Essential Health Screenings for Women
Effective Health Benefits of Panchakarma Read more
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7 Appliances Your Home Needs in 2019
A few decades ago, the idea of controlling the equipment in your house with your voice or without any remote controls would’ve seemed like quite a bizarre one - something that could happen only in a science-fiction movie. Not even in your wildest imagination would you’ve thought (although, you may have silently hoped for it!) that something as cool as a home assistant would recognize your voice and be at your constant service, or there would be gesture-control enabled devices that might soon be the next big thing after touchscreens. But, as they say, change is inevitable and for the better.
With time, we’ve upgraded ourselves. Our way of living, our dress sense – everything has changed for the better. But are these changes also reflecting in your home, where you come back to at the end of every day? Just the way you desire brand new clothes, accessories, and colourful footwear, your home desires a touch of modernity too – perhaps some new appliances that could jazz up its environment!
7 Appliances Your Home Needs This Year
This year, give your home and family the love they deserve with these smart products.
1. Air Fryers
Air fryers are not a present-day innovation; however, they are fast gaining popularity now. An air fryer is a convection oven which circulates hot air around food. Using little to no oil, you can make French fries, chicken nuggets, mozzarella sticks – just about a whole bunch of different foods - in an air fryer. With health consciousness rising among the masses today, more and more people are investing in air fryers. And it’s all worth it, if you’d like to indulge in your cravings every now and then without feeling guilty.
Price Range – Rs. 4000 and above
2. Air Purifiers
The trend of using air purifiers is not so common in India because we seldom give a thought to the quality of air inside our house. Poor air quality in homes is often the root cause of breathing problems. When you return home after work, you also bring in (invisible) allergens and contaminants with you, which may make it difficult for you to breathe in your own house. However, a good quality air purifier will take care of these allergens, letting you breathe, and relax in your home. It is a must-have if you or any member of your family has allergies or face breathing difficulties. Bringing an air purifier into your home will alter the quality of air in your house, improving your breathing and blood circulation, and strengthening your immune system.
Price Range – Rs. 7000 and above
3. Humidifiers
A humidifier is a device that adds moisture to the air to prevent dryness. If you live in the humid regions of India, you’d probably give this a miss - which is quite alright! But, if you live in the northern parts of India where the climate is dry and winters are harsh, your home could do with a humidifier. We won’t say that it is absolutely necessary, but it can make your life a lot more comfortable, particularly in the cold winter months. If there is static in your hair or sparks that fly when you touch someone or something - it’s a clear sign that the air in your house is dry, which can be a potential cause for breathing problems. For improved indoor air quality, invest in a humidifier.
Acting as a moisturising agent, a humidifier also can provide relief from experiencing dryness of the skin, throat, and lips. Furthermore, it can also ease the symptoms of cold and flu. However, do not overuse it, otherwise, it might worsen your respiratory problems.
Price Range – Rs 6000 and above
4. Electric Rice Cooker
Electric rice cookers have been in the market for a long time now, and yet, they haven’t gained the popularity they deserve. With an electric cooker, the rice is cooked perfectly - neither overcooked nor undercooked. The grains are separated too. But that’s not the only job of a rice cooker, if that’s what is stopping you from buying it. In a rice cooker, you can steam vegetables, make oatmeal or cereals, slow-cook beans, make soups, etc. While you may want to remain loyal to your precious aluminium cooker, it’s time that you give this appliance a try! It’s sure to simplify a lot of your tasks.
Price Range – Rs 3000 and above
5. Home Assistant
Automated home assistants, like Google Home, have been talk of the town for over a year now, and it’s something that every tech-savvy person is eyeing with interest. It is one invention that is actually making homes smarter. Nearly everything in your house – from the air conditioners and the television to the lights of your house can be connected to the internet and operated with a voice-activated home assistant. From reading stories to kids to giving you the news of a different country, home assistants are being touted as the smartest invention of this decade. For a smarter home, well, you do need a home assistant. And if you’re tired of your kids not listening to you, well, at least you will finally have someone to obey your commands (we’re kidding, of course)!
Price Range – Rs 4000 and above
6. Electric Grill
No, we are not misleading you by including another kitchen appliance in this list. While you may not deem it as a home appliance, you need it in your kitchen and your home. Don’t you spend the better part of your day (and make the best memories) in your kitchen? We all do, repeating the everyday question, “aaj khane me kya banana hai?”
This year, cook up some healthy kitchen stories with an electric grill. An electric grill heats up pretty quickly; you can make breakfast, grilled sandwiches, and burgers in no time. An electric grill is also cost-effective and convenient to use.
Price Range – Rs 2000 and above
7. Robotic Vacuum Cleaner
A robotic vacuum cleaner is what the world has been waiting for! We know you keep your house spick and span, but a robotic vacuum cleaner will also help you achieve just that without you having to spend hours cleaning it. A good quality robotic vacuum cleaner comes with a 3-stage cleaning system which agitates, brushes, and suctions the dirt off the floors. They also adjust to different floor types. You can clean any part of your house by sitting anywhere.
Price Range – It starts at Rs 1000 (however, a good quality robotic vacuum cleaner may cost you more)
These are some appliances that you need to bring into your home this year, depending on how useful it can be for you, of course. In this fast-paced environment, you need to give yourself a break, and for that, sometimes, you need help – even from modern inventions. No doubt, you’ll be sceptical before and after you buy them (at least for a couple of days), but do give them some time. You’ll realise that some inventions are here to help you and simplify your life!
Also Read:
How to Clean a Washing Machine at Home
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Yogic Love: Unique Yoga Styles you'll Have a Blast Trying
Yoga is an ancient form of exercise but that doesn't mean you need to keep to ancient ways of practising it. If you're bored of the repetitive yoga poses, you are in for a pleasant surprise. There are many different types of yoga poses you can adopt to guarantee a happening yoga session!
Wouldn't it be grand if yoga let you fly like a bird, fluttering your wings like there's no tomorrow? Or maybe drown your worries in the water? These unique yoga poses are every bit as powerful and yet so much cooler that we bet you'll be longing for your yoga session every day.
Totally Fun Yoga Asanas
Flying Bird Yoga
This yoga pose makes it possible to achieve what we have often longed for: to be as light as a bird! Flying bird yoga is said to free you of lifestyle disorders such as anxiety, sleeplessness and accumulation of toxins. As you keep your arms straight and streamline your body like a bird, your base (a partner who supports) will keep your balance. You'll need a trained instructor to practise this pose so your local yoga class is your best bet.
Anti-Gravity Yoga
Ever thought of belying gravity? It can be a great way to resolve your back pain issues. This form of yoga requires you to be upside down for better blood circulation, stronger muscles and guess what, a flatter tummy! However, if you're afraid of heights, suffering from a health condition or pregnant, this one is not for you.
Aqua Yoga
Everything gets instantly better when you're doing it in nice, buoyant water! Aqua yoga enthusiasts perform regular yoga poses in water for the extra lift which also keeps you fresh longer. The best part about this form of yoga is how it lets you practice without feeling any pain as the water soothes your aches, frayed muscles and fatigue.
Mommy and Baby Yoga
Imagine practicing yoga with your little bundle of joy! This form of yoga can be your ultimate spiritual connection with your baby. It also starts your kiddo off on a journey to good health and lessons learnt at this age are never forgotten. Your instructor will help the two of you adapt to poses you can do together and ones that will develop motor skills in your child. Chances are he (and in turn you) will also sleep much better.
Restorative Yoga
Sometimes, nothing at all seems to lift your spirits. Mommying can be hard on you physically and mentally and leave you craving for some cheer. This is where restorative yoga can help add fun to your daily routine. This style of yoga is said to focus your breathing and body by letting you periodically practice gentle movement. All you need to do is relax, unwind and be still – a welcome change from the constant flurry of activities your life can be.
Allow these fun yoga poses to enthrall you and take your daily session from mundane to magnificent. While unique yoga styles are now in vogue, it's a good idea to master deep breathing, meditation and muscle flexibility before taking them up. After all, there's no ditching the basics, right? Read more
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Akifa Tahreem has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 7 months
9 hours ago
Q. hello doctor, I'm 3 weeks pregnant. can we sleep on our belly or which side We can sleep on during pregnancy...
Akifa Tahreem
Mom of a 7 m old boy
7 hours ago
A. no you can't sleep in your tummy
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
6 hours ago
Q. @ask_the_expert
#ask the expert
I am having pcod problem.
when should I check pregnancy test at home?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
5 hours ago
A. If you have missed your periods you can wait for one week more and then do a urine pregnancy test to know about the pregnancy result and consult with your doctor according to the result for medication
Dr Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
6 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
At which day should I take pregnancy test
Dr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
4 hours ago
A. after 2 weeks. do ultrasound n necessary tests after consulting a specialist. without proper check up we can't advise or help you.. Avoid shirt cuts when it comes to health if mother n baby. ok.
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
6 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
when should I take pregnancy test?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
4 hours ago
A. after missed your periods you can wait for one week more ,then you can do a urine pregnancy test to know about the pregnancy result and consult with your doctor according to the result for medication
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
6 hours ago
Q. I am having pcod problem.
but having regular cycles below 35 days. some time it will extended upto 40 days.
so when should I take pregnancy test at home?
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
5 hours ago
A. If you have missed your periods you can wait for one week more or else you can do a urine pregnancy test to know about the pregnancy result and consult with your doctor according to the result for medication.
The best treatment to have Regular periods is by having a healthy lifestyle with regular daily walking or jogging along with mild exercise and meditation whenever possible. as medications will only act till you are taking them
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
3 hours ago
Q. Done my first routine blood test ..it shows thyroid border line.its my 6 week running as per USG.
but prior to that my thyroid level was always normal I did check up every year and got it normal .this time it shows borderline high in 6 week pregnancy.
is it something to worry.plz guide
Read moreDr Ghouse
Paediatrician
2 hours ago
A. it is better to follow your doctors advice for treating the thyroid deficiency. 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
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