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Leaking Amniotic Fluid during Pregnancy
Pregnancy brings about many changes in your body, and especially your uterus. The uterus prepares the right atmosphere for the growing foetus and ensures that it gets all the nutrients that it needs. An essential component of this nurturing process is the amniotic fluid.
The amniotic fluid keeps your baby cushioned and protected during the pregnancy. It ensures that the uterus doesn’t suffocate the baby by contracting tightly. The amniotic sac also keeps the germs away, protecting your baby from infections.
Leakage of the amniotic fluid is detrimental to the overall growth of your baby. Hence, it’s good to understand the complications associated with this leakage and the remedial measures that can be taken to treat and prevent it.
When Does the Amniotic Fluid Leak?
The amniotic fluid is held together by the amniotic sac which has two membranes known as chorion and amnion. Leakage of amniotic fluid happens when there is a rupture in these membranes, even when you are not in labour.
What Is the Normal Level of Amniotic Fluid?
Since the foetus continuously uses the amniotic fluid for its development, its level rises and falls. The level of amniotic fluid is at its highest during the 36th week of pregnancy. The normal levels of amniotic fluid are:
60 ml - At 12 weeks
175 ml - At 16 weeks
400 to 1200 ml - From 36th to 38th week
After the 38th week, the level of fluid begins to reduce until delivery.
Causes of Amniotic Fluid Leakage
The most common cause of amniotic fluid leakage is labour. However, the amniotic fluid can leak during the second trimester due to many reasons.
Labour causes a spontaneous rupture of membranes (SROM) which facilitates delivery.
The membrane may also rupture around the 37th or the 38th week which is known as premature rupture of membranes (PROM). This may be caused due to
A prior history of PROM
Infections in the vagina, cervix or the uterus
History of surgeries on the uterus or the cervical area
Tension in the amniotic membrane due to twin or multiple pregnancies or a large baby
Poor diet of the mother
Alcohol, drugs or smoking in the prenatal phase
Bacterial infection
Trauma to the amniotic sac due to accidents
Abnormal development of the uterus
Oligohydramnios, a condition where the level of amniotic fluid is shallow
A split in the amniotic sac, which often heals itself.
Signs and Symptoms
During pregnancy, vaginal discharge and urine leakage are quite common. You can distinguish amniotic fluid from the other types of leakage with the help of this table.
Amniotic fluid leakage
Urine Leakage
Excess Vaginal Discharge
Has no odour
Has the typical urine smell
May or may not have an odour
Very damp underwear
Not very damp underwear
Not very damp underwear
Persistent leakage
Leakage isn’t persistent
Vaginal discharge is less frequent than the amniotic fluid leakage
Leaks even after you visit the restroom
Leakage stops after you empty your bladder
May leak even after you visit the restroom
Is clear with a tinge of pink or white
Doesn’t have any tinge
Discharge is thicker than urine and amniotic fluid
Colourless or yellowish fluid
Yellowish
White or yellowish
Treatment
The treatment for amniotic fluid leakage depends on the stage of pregnancy. Your gynaecologist will check whether the leakage is indeed amniotic fluid and then suggest an appropriate method of treatment. In case the baby is fully developed, you may also be recommended to have labour induced and deliver.
1. For Premature Amniotic Fluid Leakage
If your water breaks ahead of the delivery date, it may be a premature amniotic fluid leakage. If so, you will need to consult a doctor immediately to prevent any chance of infection.
Your doctor may conduct the following tests:
Temperature, blood pressure, and pulse check
Use nitrazine paper to check the pH of the fluid and verify if it is amniotic fluid
A spectrum is used to observe the vagina, and the fluid sample is observed under a microscope.
Ultrasound may be performed to determine the cause of rupture of the amniotic sac.
The foetus will be placed under observation, and the foetal heartbeat and the contractions will be tracked. Treatment is given based on the stage of the pregnancy.
Before 24 Weeks: As it’s very early for safe delivery, and there are chances of miscarriage, you will be closely monitored at the hospital.
Between 24 and 31 Weeks: You’ll be given antibiotics to avoid an infection. Steroids may be injected to aid the development of the baby’s lungs. Delivery is usually delayed until the 33rd week.
From 32nd to 33rd Week: The baby’s lungs will be monitored and checked for maturity. Steroids may be given to develop the baby’s lungs. Antibiotic treatment is given to induce labour.
From 34th Week Until the Due Date: The baby is constantly monitored, and antibiotics are given to prevent infections. A delivery becomes likely after the 34th week.
2. For Low Amniotic Fluid Levels
In case the leakage is due to low levels of the amniotic fluid, then the following treatments are considered.
Amnio-infusion: A catheter is used to add amniotic fluid to the uterus. This procedure provides extra padding around the umbilical cord and reduces the chances of caesarean delivery.
Injecting Fluid: Amniocentesis is used to inject amniotic fluid into the amniotic sac. This is a short-term solution to buy time to identify the cause of the leak and monitor the foetal anatomy. The level of amniotic fluid tends to drop again within a week.
Hydration: You will be given IV or oral fluids to increase the level of amniotic fluid.
Complications
Amniotic fluid leakage, if untreated, can lead to severe pregnancy complications. Some of them are:
Amniotic fluid leakage during the first and second trimester can result in a miscarriage or stillbirth.
It can cause developmental issues in your baby.
You may be exposed to infection.
Amniotic fluid leakage can necessitate a premature and C-section delivery.
It can compress the umbilical cord or deprive your baby of oxygen.
Things To Consider in Case of Amniotic Fluid Leakage
In case you experience a leakage of the amniotic fluid, ensure that:
You inform your doctor immediately.
You keep a track of when the leakage began and the amount of leakage.
You don’t insert fingers or anything else into the vagina.
When You Should Call the Doctor
Reach out to your doctor as soon as possible, in the following circumstances:
You haven’t crossed 37 weeks yet, and you suspect amniotic fluid leakage.
You experience heavy amniotic fluid leakage, with or without vaginal discharge and a fever.
The fluid has a greenish tinge to it. This indicates meconium, the baby’s faeces.
You have a persistent flow of amniotic fluid.
If you notice the leaking of amniotic fluid at 38 weeks, then labour may have begun. If the leakage happens earlier, it’s best to consult your gynaecologist for a quick diagnosis.
Also Read:
Water Breaking during Pregnancy
Watery Discharge during Pregnancy
How to Increase and Decrease Amniotic Fluid during Pregnancy Naturally Read more
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How To Take Care Of Yourself After An Abortion
Whether a woman opts for a surgical procedure for abortion or takes pills, there are bound to be some complications. Many women believe that when the surgical abortion procedure is performed by a medical professional, there won't be any complications but that's not entirely true. An abortion can have severe side effects - from mental stress to physical pain - on a woman’s body. Hence, proper self-care is important to recover after abortion.
Side Effects and Complications of Abortion
An abortion can be physically and emotionally taxing for a woman. Even after it is carried out by a professional, there are side effects that could arise after the procedure.
1. Bleeding
This is probably one of the most common complications women face after an abortion. During the procedure, a lot of blood is lost from the blood vessels between the placenta and the uterus. The bleeding could persist for a long time and could become heavier too. One can experience light to heavy bleeding after an abortion. Blood clots may also pass post an abortion; however, if they pass for more than a couple of hours, it could be a sign of complication.
2. Cramps/Pain
Cramps are another side effect of abortion which could cause discomfort. If a woman has an abortion after 12 weeks of her pregnancy, she will most likely have cramps. Experiencing pain in the pelvic region, however, could be a sign of an infection in the body.
3. Vaginal Discharge
After undergoing an abortion, a woman can have foul-smelling vaginal discharge, which basically indicates an infection in the uterus, fallopian tube, or the vagina. If left untreated it could lead to pelvic inflammatory diseases, hence consulting a doctor about the same is necessary.
4. High Body Temperature
A woman who has undergone an abortion can expect her body temperature to remain higher than normal due to various changes occurring in the body. However, if the temperature rises beyond 100.4°C, consulting a doctor is a must.
5. Some Other Side Effects
A woman can also experience septic shock after the termination of her pregnancy. The symptoms of the same include chills, abdominal pain, fever, and low blood pressure. Symptoms such as abdominal pain, bleeding and fever are also indicators of uterine perforation.
Emotions After Abortion
All women react differently to abortion. Many women go through a roller-coaster of emotions after an abortion while others take it in their stride. For some, there is a sense of relief while others feel a deep regret of having undergone the procedure. In any case, it is important to acknowledge these feelings and accept that they are as real as physical side effects. If the feelings of regret are not addressed quickly, they could lead to long-term depression.
Medication
In order to prevent infections after an abortion, doctors usually recommend Azithromycin and Flagyl. Methergine and Ergotamine medication is prescribed to bring the uterus back to its original size. This tablet has to be taken every eight hours or as prescribed by the doctor. Most women experience a lot of physical pain and cramping after undergoing an abortion; to ease the pain, doctors prescribe either Norco or Ibuprofen. A single tablet must be taken every 8 hours along with a glass of milk or food.
Consult your doctor before you begin with these medicines. In case you are taking any other medications, you need to inform the doctor about the same.
Tips to Take Care of Yourself After an Abortion
If you have recently had an abortion, your body will undergo many changes. While some symptoms will remain for around two weeks, a few will subside within 72 hours of the abortion. To recover quickly, after-abortion care is necessary. Here are a few tips that will help you recover faster -
1. Make Changes in Your Diet
Since a lot of blood is lost during an abortion, quickly getting on to a nutrient-rich diet can help. After an abortion, you should also drink 8-9 glasses of water daily and up your protein and vitamin intake.
2. Use Contraceptives
You should consider using contraceptives after an abortion to avoid an unwanted pregnancy. Your fertility will be high after abortion because of the hormonal changes, so if you plan to have sex, use birth control options. Better yet, abstain from sex for at least two weeks - give your body some time to recover, then you can have sex with your partner.
3. Invest in Good Bras
After undergoing an abortion surgery, you will notice changes in your breasts. They may feel tender and heavy for about two weeks or more. So wear well-fitting bras during this time and avoid stimulating your breasts.
4. Change Pads Frequently
Post-abortion, you may experience light to heavy bleeding; bleeding is the body’s natural way of recovering from the procedure. You can use pads - and keep changing them frequently. But if the flow is quite heavy, it is suggested that you consult a doctor as heavy bleeding can be a sign of an infection.
6. Use Heating Pads
You could experience severe cramping if the abortion has taken place after 12 or more weeks of pregnancy. Your uterus will also try to return to its normal position, which again could lead to cramps. If you experience cramps or severe pain, you can use a heating pad. A heating pad will ease the pain and provide you some relief.
7. Share Your Concerns With Your Partner
Abortion can leave some emotional scars and you could experience emotional turmoil and may feel sad. Hence, it is important that you let those emotions out of your system. To get out from that emotional phase, you need to have a support system, and who better than your husband! So talk to your partner and spend quality time with him. Try to uplift your mood by going out for walks or spending some time in the company of friends.
8. Take Rest
After undergoing an abortion, you will need to take rest. You can't just go back to work as you did before. Your body will need some time to recover and for that it needs rest. So if possible, stay at home for a week or two, and rest. Get enough sleep and eat healthy foods - these will help you recover soon!
FAQs
1. When Can You Expect Your Period to Return After an Abortion?
After an abortion, your body will start preparing itself for the next menstrual cycle. So you can expect your period to return 4-8 weeks after the abortion. But do expect your menstrual cycle to be accompanied by cramping during the first one or two weeks.
Your periods will also depend on the type of birth control method you use. You should have your periods by 8 weeks if you don't use birth control pills.
2. Can You Have Sex After an Abortion?
You can have sex after an abortion, but doctors suggest couples to wait for about 2 weeks before having sex as it lowers the risk of infections.
3. Can You Get Pregnant Soon After an Abortion?
Your body will start preparing for the next menstrual cycle immediately after the abortion. So if you indulge in unprotected sex, you can become pregnant any time before your period too. If you want to avoid getting pregnant, you should discuss the birth control methods with him. Post-abortion, your periods should resume after four to eight weeks unless you are taking birth control pills.
Abortion can take a toll on your health, hence it is important that you take adequate rest to come out of that emotionally and physically taxing phase. Your body will tell you exactly when to return to normal routines, and you should take a call accordingly. Increased activity will cause cramping or bleeding, so avoid any exercise. Eat healthy foods and take good care of yourself. Also, go for a pelvic examination four weeks after the abortion to rule out any infections or other problems and to know how your body is recovering. This will ensure that your body has recovered entirely from the abortion and you are ready to lead a healthy life.
Also Read:
Side Effects After Abortion
D and C After a Miscarriage/Abortion
Chances Of Conceiving After An Abortion Read more
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Baby Circumcision: Benefits, Procedure & Care
Parents are ecstatic with the entry of a newborn in their family. Along with the several joys that parents experience, it is also a heavy responsibility that they need to carry out. Most experienced parents say that it is a 20-year project that needs proper planning, care, and effective steps right from the time a baby is born.
What Is Circumcision?
Boys are born with a hood of skin covering the tip of their penis. The skin covering the tip is known as foreskin, and the tip is known as glands. Thus, circumcision is a process that involves removing the foreskin of a baby boy. This process is done to expose the tip of a penis. The foreskin has a mucous membrane and it is a double layer of skin fold. It acts as a protection for the child's penis because it is one of the natural protection against dryness and also irritation that might be caused by pee or poo.
How Common Is Baby Circumcision?
Baby circumcision is a common practice across the globe and is in existence from Biblical times. Statistics show that it is a prevalent practice in Israel and Muslim world because of their religious requirements. However, in our times the circumcision rates have fallen in the UK compared to the other parts of the world because health experts believe that there is no need for it unless there is a medical condition. So now in most cases, it is the call of doctors on whether or not to go for a circumcision.
Circumcision is a common practice in Canada, United States, and also in the Middle East.
Making The Right Decision
Should I circumcise my baby? Did this question come up in your mind? If yes, then it is important to understand several different aspects here and then take a call on the same. You need to compare the benefits and risks and then decide whether you want to circumcise your baby. However, if there is a medical condition that requires you to get your son circumcised, it is best to take this decision now when the child will not experience as much pain as it will be after growing up.
Why Some Parents Choose To Have Their Sons Circumcised?
There are several reasons for parents to have their sons circumcised. Apart from cultural and religious beliefs, there are also several health benefits that make some parents take this decision for their children. In most cases, the circumcision is performed on adult men if there is a medical condition but this situation does not come mostly in babies.
Circumcision is a common practice in western countries regardless of the religion of parents. It is considered to be a healthy practice for the baby boy and is believed to avoid problems. There have been several studies conducted regarding this age-old practice and here are some of the benefits according to the various studies. Circumcised boys have reduced risks to health issues such as:
Penile cancer
Foreskin infections
Sexually transmitted diseases
Urinary tract infections
Phimosis ( a common condition with uncircumcised males that makes retraction of foreskin almost impossible)
With uncircumcised males it is a common problem of moisture getting trapped in between the foreskin and penis; a perfect environment for the bacteria to grow. This increases the risk of infection and also to spread it to others. There are many hygiene-related reasons as to why parents decide on their baby boy to get circumcised. However, the Muslims and Jews perform circumcision on the grounds of their religious faith and cultural beliefs. In some situations, the parents decide to have their sons circumcised because they do not want their son to be different than his brothers or father.
Why Some Parents Choose Not To Have Their Sons Circumcised?
In the recent past, the generation has progressed towards independent thinking, decisions, and so on. As a result, this thinking pattern has also affected many parents today. Most of the parents leave the decision to their sons. However, in most of the cases where circumcision is not provided, the parents are scared because of the pain involved in it. It is their little bundle of joy, and the whole idea of causing pain to him is unacceptable for several parents. The parents may also be worried about the several risks that are associated with the surgery. Some also think that the circumcision can have a huge impact on their sons and so they don’t opt for this resort.
Decided To Circumcise Your Baby Boy? - What Next?
Once you decide to circumcise your baby boy, it will also need you to take care of his penis. After the surgery, it becomes more so important because the healing of penis takes a while, and not taking care of it might result in more infection and so on. Make sure that you take in all the information about how the procedure will be carried out, the surgery date, recovery time and so on in order to prepare well. Also prepare your house so that once the baby is back, he gets a clean and hygienic house.
When Is Circumcision Normally Performed?
Normally, the circumcision is performed within 2 days of the birth. However, if you baby is premature then you will need to wait. On the other hand, even if he is born with a problem to his penis or has bleeding problems then you need to wait as well.
The doctor will clearly explain the procedure, risk and benefits of a surgery, and a good time to perform it. Once you are satisfied with the doctor’s advice, you can opt for the surgery.
Preparing Your Baby For Circumcision
Usually, there are not a lot of things that you need to do because in most cases the surgery will be performed when the newborn is still in the hospital. There are different medical practitioners needed for the surgery such as the obstetricians and pediatricians. If you decide to have this surgery performed for your newborn then you will need to fill up a consent form. It is only once you fill these will the surgery be performed.
When Should A Circumcision Procedure Not To Be Performed?
This call mainly depends upon the doctor’s advice. Your doctor may recommend delaying the procedure or may not recommend it depending upon the baby’s condition. Some of the situations would be:
The baby is medically unstable or was born prematurely
Surgical intervention is needed to correct physical abnormalities in the penis
If there are abnormalities in the penis, foreskin might be needed for reconstructive procedure
How Is Circumcision Performed?
If it has been more than few weeks after the baby was born then general anaesthesia will be given. The concept of circumcising the baby boy after few weeks still exists in Scotland. It is a surgical procedure that is carried out by the doctor. This is a minor surgical procedure and does not take much time. If everything goes right, then there is no need for the baby to stay in the hospital overnight. The surgeon will use local anaesthesia to numb the area before surgery is performed. It will either be in the form of injection that will be given at the base of your baby’s penis or it will be in the form of a cream that will be applied 60-90 minutes before the surgery. These are the procedures used when it is a newborn baby. On the other hand, if it is a Jewish family, then the circumcision is done without any anaesthesia.
Here are the most common methods of circumcision:
The Plastibell Method
This is one of the most commonly used methods for circumcision and is used for babies that weight approximately 5.5lbs. In this process, the surgeon uses a clear plastic ring and places tightly around the penis head. Then the foreskin of the baby is removed by cutting it across and then trimming the excess skin that stays beyond the ring. It takes around 10 minutes for the procedure to complete and in order to prevent bleeding; the surgeon will keep the plastic ring around the penis’s head. There is no need for parents to worry about this ring during healing process because it will fall off on its own.
The Mogen Method
This approach is used for babies who weight at least 11 lbs. A clamp firmly holds onto the foreskin without cutting it. Then the surgeon pulls the baby’s foreskin through the slit of Mogen clamp. Then the surgeon cuts the front surface of the clamp. This technique is quick because it will only take half a minute to complete this procedure. Once the bleeding has stopped, nothing will be left in the area during the healing process.
The Gomco Method
This method is recommended for baby weighing over 11 lbs. In the method Gomco, a clamp is used by the surgeon and this helps hold approximately 1mm of the foreskin firmly. Then the foreskin is cut away once separated from the glands. This clamp helps protect the penis’s head during the removal of foreskin. Once the foreskin is cut away, the surgeon leaves the clamp on the penis for few minutes until the bleeding stops, and then puts a bandage on it.
These are three of the most common practices used in the surgical world.
Pros And Cons
The reasons to circumcise a baby son are mostly health-related, and most of the reasons do not play a part until they are older. Doctors can help parents understand the reasons to do it and the risks involved in it. Here are some of the pros and cons:
Pros
Decreases risk of penile cancer
Lower risk of UTI (Urinary tract infection)
Lower risk of getting sexually transmitted diseases from female-male
Helps to easily manage the hygiene in penis
Decreases risk of cervical cancer in female partners
Cons
It causes pain to the baby buy, but there are medications to reduce this pain
This might be considered as disfigurement by some
Provides few immediate health benefits
Some of the other complications might be cutting foreskin too short or too long or chances of infection and bleeding
Considering these pros and cons will help parents come to a better conclusion depending on the situation.
What Happens After Performing Circumcision?
There may be some redness, swelling or pain after circumcision. As the penis is prone to infection, the parents will need to be extra careful during the initial stage. The care is for a short while because in time the side effects will subside. Pain management tip for you would be to point your baby’s penis in a downward direction while changing the nappies. This action will help to prevent any chaffing or rubbing of the diaper against the glands. This will give some free of nappy time to your baby and also reduce the irritation.
In a normal situation, the wound after surgery should heal in the next 10 days. It is not common to experience complications after the surgery. However, if there is a sign of infection or bleeding, do not panic. Take your newborn to the ER and get diagnostics done.
Caring For A Circumcised Baby
Caring for a circumcised baby is not as difficult as it might seem. The baby’s penis is not as fragile as it may seem. Just use warm water to gently clean the penis rather than using the wet wipes. It is advisable to use a diaper as well because this will protect your baby from any kind of injury. Putting a diaper on will protect the baby from infections because it will avoid any contact of the affected area with germs. However, make sure to change the diaper often. Listen to the surgeon for any other practical advice and ensure that the baby is looked after well.
Tips To Care For A Circumcised Penis
Keep It Clean
This is one of the most important things that you will need to take care of. In order to carry out this process properly, gently wipe away any bits of poop that you may see in that area. To prevent any irritation to the baby, allow the area to get dry by itself. Until the baby’s penis is healed, it will be better to stick to sponge baths when cleaning a circumcised baby boy. Remember to change diapers regularly and keep the area clean.
Keep It Protected And Covered
Once the surgery is performed there will be a bandage with jelly placed on the baby’s penis that will fall off when he pees next time. What do you do after it falls off? Well, the pediatricians have a mixed feeling on whether or not to put anything on the healing penis. So, it is best to take advice from the doctor if it is better to cover it or leave it open. If you do cover it with a bandage, you need to apply a bit of jelly to the tip so that it doesn’t stick to the penis. If your doctor says you shouldn’t put a bandage on, they may recommend other possibilities like dabbing a bit of jelly and some ointment and applying it after every diaper change.
Put Double Diapers
This will help your baby son manage the pain. As you put on two diapers, it provides a cushion to your baby’s penis and it helps reduce the pain as well. Another option you can try is to put ice in a zip lock bag and put it in between the layers to provide some pain relief.
Use Ice For Proper Healing
If the tip of the circumcised penis is a little red then it is perfectly alright. It is also okay if there is a yellowish fluid oozing from the penis because it only means that the body is working to heal the affected area. Even if you see a little bit of blood on the diaper it is fine. But make sure to use ice for proper healing.
Uncircumcised Baby Penis Care
The first few days and months is crucial to care for your baby’s penis. When the foreskin is still attached, you can gently clean the outside of uncircumcised penis with ordinary soap and water for babies during the bath time. It is recommended cleaning the newborn baby’s penis as a finger and just the area that is visible. So, doctors suggest that you do not try and clean the skin under the foreskin. In uncircumcised boys, the entire foreskin is intact and cannot be pulled back. Usually, it remains like that for years before it can separate or retracted naturally. Applying force to retract could only damage it or result in bleeding.
Risks & More
Circumcising a man or a baby is an age-old practice that is widely accepted around the globe. There are minimal risks of circumcision and there is no need for parents to worry about this. However, just like with any other surgery there are still risks involved which can never be overlooked.
When you decide on the right methods of circumcisions for your baby, you need to also carefully analyse the place you plan to get it done. Only a skilled professional should be handling this procedure and all of this should be done after ensuring that the infant is healthy for this surgery. Proven techniques need to be used so that the risk of infection is minimised. There are very thin risk factors and some of them are bleeding, infection, and also the failure to remove enough skin. After the surgery, there are still chances of infection and bleeding because this can be caused because of the friction between the diapers and ammonia that is present in the urine. Often times, petroleum jelly can provide the needed relief if there is any irritation.
Some more risks include mastitis which is the inflammation of penis opening and also disorders related to the urinary tract. Other major risks are partial amputation, urethral fistulas, and penis necrosis. In very rare cases, too much skin is removed from the penis and this results in painful erection in adults.
When Should You Call The Doctor?
After the surgery, call the doctor if you notice:
Urine is only trickling
Foreskin becomes itchy, swollen or red
Foreskin balloons during urination
Foreskin gets stuck in retracted position
It is crucial to provide adequate care to a child in the initial days after the circumcision. Make sure that you prepare well for this huge decision and take proper care throughout the recovery time. Looking up this information will help you make informed decisions.
Also read: Cloth Diapers Versus Disposable Diapers Read more
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Pregnancy after Menopause
Menopause refers to a stage which marks the end of menstrual cycles of a woman. It signals a drastic change in the hormones which are responsible for managing fertility in women. Read on for information on how this affects one’s ability to conceive.
What Is Menopause?
Menopause can be explained as the absence of menstrual periods for a year, when a woman’s ovaries stop functioning. The term is used to describe the changes a woman experiences prior to the end of her menstrual cycles. It also marks the end of her capacity to reproduce and conceive a baby. It is a normal condition which every woman experiences at an advanced age.
A woman’s ovaries are a storehouse for a massive amount of eggs. The menstruation and ovulation cycles are controlled by hormones like oestrogen and progesterone which are produced in the ovaries. When the ovaries are unable to release the eggs, menstruation comes to an end and menopause begins.
Difference Between Menopause And Perimenopause
The primary distinguishing factor between menopause and perimenopause is menstruation. Women in perimenopause are capable of producing oestrogen and are having periods regularly while women in menopause haven’t had a period for 12 months at least. Perimenopause is a time period the body needs to prepare for menopause than a physical condition itself while menopause is a medical diagnosis where menses are absent for a minimum of 12 months.
Perimenopause is defined at a transition time when your body produces less of oestrogen and progesterone. Your periods become irregular in terms of frequency and length while your hormone levels will fluctuate, leading to hot flashes and sweating at night. During menopause, however, LH and FSH levels are high and ovulation stop. A common question asked by women is how long does it take for menopause to end. The answer is obvious- Never. This is when postmenopause starts.
Is It Possible To Get Pregnant After Menopause?
A common and natural doubt arising amongst menopausal women is “can a woman get pregnant after menopause?” Once you have received a confirmation from the doctor that menopause has begun, there are no chances of you becoming pregnant. There are no eggs in your ovaries that can be released and hence zero possibility of pregnancy too. You can enjoy your sex life to the fullest at this time, since you and your partner do not have to worry about a surprise.
Although an unplanned pregnancy is not possible, menopause does not guard one against STDs and hence, practicing safe sex is always advised. You are also likely to hear tales about women who got pregnant even during their 60s and 70s but they are more of rumors than the truth. During menopause, pregnancy test will always yield a negative result and is a fruitless effort.
Chances Of A Woman Getting Pregnant After Menopause With IVF
IVF post menopause has been carried out quite successfully in women who wanted to get pregnant after menopause. A woman can get pregnant using IVF in two ways despite non-viability of her eggs. Her own eggs that were frozen earlier can be used or donor eggs can be used too. You would have to undergo hormonal therapy so that your body is ready for implantation and to nourish a baby for the entire term. However, your doctor will be the right person to decide if your health is good enough for IVF after menopause as postmenopausal women can experience certain complications after IVF. It is best to consult with a fertility expert in case you have decided to undergo IVF after menopause.
How To Reverse Menopause And Get Pregnant?
The answer to “can a woman get pregnant after menopause?” is presently no. However, modern science has found answers to many seemingly impossible questions and there is a lot of research work going on. Use of the mother’s platelet-rich plasma (PRP) is one line of treatment that has caught the attention of clinical researchers. PRP is rich with cytokines and hormones. Ovarian activity restoration is possible for a temporary period, but clinical trials for the same are going on.
What Are The Risks Of Getting Pregnant Post Menopause?
As age increases, the health risks in pregnancy increases correspondingly. As compared to younger women, you could face risks of certain kinds if you are above 35. The risks associated with pregnancy during menopause are as follows:
Multiple pregnancies, especially if you have chosen IVF-In Vitro Fertilization as your preferred medium. This could lead to low birth weight, pre-term birth and difficult delivery.
Stillbirth or miscarriage
Gestational diabetes, causing health issues for mother and child
Caesarean birth
High blood pressure which needs proper monitoring and medications to prevent future complications
Low birth weight or premature delivery
Placenta praevia (low-lying placenta) which causes severe bleeding and needs medications.
Tips For Conceiving After Menopause
A question that haunts most women keen on conceiving is how to get pregnant after menopause. A woman needs to be careful if she decides to conceive post menopause and should emphasize on minimizing risks to the lowest possible levels. The following tips can help you to boost fertility levels and enhance your chances of getting pregnant:
The first step involves bringing your body to the high level of wellness before becoming pregnant whether menopausal or not. Three months before trying to get pregnant, you should consume prenatal vitamins and folic acid supplements. You could also start on vitamin D and calcium to boost your wellness levels, but check with your doctor before doing so.
Ensure that your Body Mass Index or BMI is between 18.5 and 24.9 before trying to conceive. Obesity is considered to be a critical risk factor in normal pregnancies, especially so with post-menopause pregnancies. Consider a diet that is high on proteins and low on calories to ensure the right weight and BMI. Avoid foods containing, saturated fats and white sugar. Stay away from processed foods too.
Visit your doctor to carry out tests like mammogram, PAP smear, Haemoglobin, Lipid profile, tests for STD and blood tests for diabetes. These preliminary tests are useful in finding out any issues associated with your pregnancy so that necessary steps can be taken.
It is necessary for menopausal women to take the FSH test to check if they are still ovulating. Check for post menopause pregnancy symptoms to be doubly sure. Women cannot produce their own eggs if the test reports 11.4 and above and medication is rarely of help in such cases. Fertility centres can be approached to help with pregnancy in such cases.
Menopause Myths
Myth 1: Menopause begins at 50
Fact: Although the average age for menopause is 52 years, you could begin in your late 30s or even late 60s. If you haven’t had your periods for a full 12 months, then you are in menopause for sure.
Myth 2: Weight gain is mandatory during menopause
Fact: While unwanted weight gain is common in menopause, it isn’t completely unavoidable. Due to rapidly lowering oestrogen levels, there is a hormonal imbalance in your body and it tries to protect itself by storing fat, thus leading to weight gain. However, through a controlled diet and exercise regime, it is possible to balance your hormones and maintain weight.
Myth 3: Menopause leads to weakened bones
Fact: The weakening of bones in a woman’s body has no direct correlation to menopause. Women lose 10% of their bone mass during menopause, which is a normal process around that age. However when coupled with a family history of weak bones, poor diet and an unchecked lifestyle, the bone loss can be doubled. By reducing stress, undertaking bone strengthening exercises and getting enough nutrients you can make sure that your bones stay strong.
Myth 4: Menopause has a huge impact on your sex life
Fact: Women are blessed to have an active sex life at any age be it 30 or 90. However, due to hormonal imbalance, a gradual decrease in sex life is possible. Also factors like vaginal dryness, tiredness and irritability can lead to infrequent sexual activity. The physical symptoms can be addressed through various channels and sex drive during menopause can be restored to its former glory.
Myth 5: The later you start menstruating, the later will you start with menopause
Fact: As a matter of fact, it is the opposite that’s true. If you have started menstruating at a later-than-average age, you are more likely to start menopause earlier. Check for the following clues if you want to predict your menopause age:
Smoking leads to earlier menopause
Alcohol consumption and more pregnancies can mean delayed menopause
Your mother’s menopause age is one of the best indicators of knowing when you will start.
Myth 6: Hot flashes are the first signs of menopause
Fact: Menopause is usually associated with hot flashes but there are many other symptoms which can signal the beginning of your menopause. These include difficulty in sleeping, weight gain, hair loss, food cravings, irritability and anxiety among many others. Due to this wide variety of signs of menopause, it is difficult for women to pinpoint and therefore understand these are the first signs of menopause or hormonal imbalance.
Now that you understand how menopause can affect your life, you can be better prepared to manage this important phase of your life. It will be easier to face the situation as you can differentiate between myth and reality and understand the role menopause plays in your life. You will also be able to overcome its distressing symptoms confidently and look and feel your best during these trying times.
Also read: Premature Ovarian Failure Read more
Suggested for you
Homemade Soap, Shampoo and Body Wash for Baby
Every mother loves to see her baby enjoy the first moments in the water and then start playing around with enormous excitement. Taking care of your little one is your utmost priority and you would go out of your way to purchase the best baby shampoo or body wash available in the market. But no matter how safe they say it is, there is always a chance of it containing some chemicals. Having a baby shampoo made of natural substances is not difficult when you can literally make the same at home with a few ingredients.
Why is it Good to Use Homemade Baby Products for your Child?
Although you might choose to opt for baby cleansing products from well-established brands right off the bat, it is in your best interest to switch to a homemade version of the same as soon as you can.
Commercial products get expensive as they get safer and more convenient for your child.
Even the so-called “organic” products tend to make use of artificial preservatives and fragrances.
The manufacturing process could introduce certain chemicals into the solution.
Homemade products are more gentle on your baby and take care of his hair as well as his skin.
The fragrances and aromas used to remind the baby of a homely place and can be relaxing and sleep-inducing for your child, too.
How to Make and Use these Homemade Products for your Baby?
In order to get you started with making your very own homemade baby care products for your child, we have put together a few basic recipes that can are easy and convenient to proceed with.
1. Baby Soap
With this homemade baby soap recipe, you can make a nice bar of customized soap for your kid.
Ingredients Needed
Coconut oil, 90g
Jojoba oil, 30g
Olive oil, 750g
Lye, 120g
Distilled water, 300g
Essential oils, 15g
How To Make
Block the sink and fill it with cold water and ice to act as a cooling bath.
Wear rubber gloves. Take a pitcher and add distilled water to it. Follow it up by pouring in the lye very slowly. Do it outdoors since fumes will rise and it will heat up. Place this in the cooling bath until it reaches a temperature of 38 degrees.
In parallel, put together the oils in a pot and heat it to the same temperature. It is necessary for both elements to be at 38 degrees at the same time.
Then, pour the lye mixture into the oils and keep stirring until lines start forming in the mixture. This takes anywhere from 30 minutes to 2 hours. Add some more oils to this mixture and stir again.
Pour this mixture into a mould and let it cool down to form the soap.
How To Use
The soap will take some time to harden and reduce its alkaline nature. This needs to happen for around 6 weeks or so.
Once cured, the soap can be used by creating lather in your hands and then applying to the baby. The soft creamy nature of the soap is extremely comforting to the child.
2. Baby Shampoo
The various ingredients used in making the baby shampoo at home, work together in forming a solution that is great to smell, moisturizes the skin, as well as cleanses the body properly.
Ingredients Needed
Liquid castile soap, 1 cup
Vegetable glycerine, 1 teaspoon
Lavender oil, 15 drops
Coconut oil, 2 tablespoons
Water, 1 cup
How To Make
Take a plastic jar and add water to it.
Follow this up by pouring in the liquid castile soap into it gradually. Mix the entire solution together as properly as possible.
For added softness and aroma, pour in the glycerine and follow it up with the lavender oil drops. These need to be stirred into the mixture.
Store this solution in a dispenser or another container.
How To Use
Before dispensing any, make sure you shake the bottle or the dispenser properly.
Take a small amount of the solution on a sponge or a cloth used to clean the baby.
Use your hands and some water to create a nice lather before rinsing your little one. Too much solution can make his skin greasier than usual
3. Baby Body Wash
Some people prefer using a baby wash instead of a soap because it is much more convenient to use and tends to have a better texture than any other soap.
Ingredients Needed
Distilled water, 1 cup
Dispenser
Castile soap, 2 tablespoons
Organic coconut oil, 1 tablespoon
How To Make
It might be necessary to melt the coconut oil before beginning the process since organic coconut oil can solidify quite easily.
With all the ingredients in place, take a bowl and add them one by one into it. Make sure you stir the mixture after each ingredient is added to create as homogenous a mixture as possible.
Once the mixture is prepared, open the dispenser and pour the mixture into it.
Make sure you use a dispensing mouth that has a foaming installation on it.
How To Use
Prior to your baby’s bath, wet his body a little to create a nice base.
Shake the dispenser well and take a small amount of the solution on your hand.
Rub the solution in your palms to create the initial lather and then apply it to the baby.
Rinse gently so that more lather is formed and the body is cleansed properly.
Once you know how to make homemade baby shampoo and other cleaning products, you can get started on creating customised aromatic soaps and washes for your little one and give him a bath that he enjoys the most.
Also Read:
Home Remedies for Baby Skin Care
How to Wash Your Infant's Hair?
How to Trim Baby Nails Safely? Read more
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Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
4 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts advice some parenting hack.
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
3 hours ago
A. regarding what ok repeat question. 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
Father of a Newborn child
3 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts what is the best time to keep baby in the sun and for how long?
Nikitha
Mom of a 9 yr 5 m old boy
3 hours ago
A. hello in the morning around 7 to 9:00 a.m. for 10 minutes you can get your baby exposed to the sunlight which would be safe on baby so the child will also get the vitamin d naturally which should be good and nothing to worry about
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. currently I'm in 25th week of my pregnancy. I would like to when is my 7th month or red trimester is going to start?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
3 hours ago
A. you had to complete 28 weeks ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts I am having vaginal infection from last 2 months my doc have given me antibiotics meds but still I am having it …. 8 months pregnant I am ….is anything I am doing wrong that’s y I am having this infection
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
3 hours ago
A. ok cd. 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 Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
3 hours ago
Q. Hlo sir / madam
I m 36week 6 days pregnant
My baby’s head doesn’t fix into the pelvis
Lightening or baby dropping not happend
My AFI is 18 (mild polyhydroaminous)
What should I do?? Normal delivery possible?
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
3 hours ago
A. your treating doctor will advise accordingly ok. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Heenuchauhan has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
47 mins ago
Q. I got a very pinkish line in t from 2 test which I took after 7 days of missing period am I pregnant?????
Heenuchauhan
Guardian of 2 children
12 mins ago
A. yeah postive
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