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Pelvic Exam During Pregnancy - Procedure and Risks Associated
Pregnancy is that crucial time that requires you to take care of yourself more than ever. And it is this time that involves an ample number of visits to your doctor. The doctor would, in turn, conduct prenatal check-ups, one of them being a pelvic exam.
This prenatal checkup helps in monitoring the well being of you as well as your baby. If you have any confusion when it comes to a pelvic exam, the following section could help save the day.
What is Pelvic Exam in Pregnancy
A pelvic exam is a procedure followed by your physician to examine the vaginal area and the adjoining regions of the pelvis. General anaesthesia is usually given prior to the pelvic exam. Also, the vaginal fluids may be collected during a pelvic exam to check for any infections. The vulva, uterus, cervix, ovaries, bladder or even rectum is checked when a pregnant woman undergoes a pelvic exam.
When and Why is a Prenatal Pelvic Exam Performed
In most cases, the pelvic exam is undergone during the first or the third trimester of pregnancy. In some rare cases though, when a woman would be going through certain complications; a pelvic exam could be conducted. Read on to know in detail:
First Trimester: A pelvic exam during early pregnancy is conducted in order to scrutinize whether the cervix has been properly covered up by the mucus plug.
Third Trimester: A pelvic exam in pregnancy’s third trimester is a normal prenatal test. This is done more frequently or even on your every visit to the doctor. The reason for the pelvic exam is to check the effacement and dilation of the cervix in order to know the left time for delivery.
Complications: In case you are going through complications such as spotting, you are prone to preterm labour, a noticeable growth in the pelvic area is observed or are suffering from any vaginal infection; a pelvic exam could be conducted during any time of your pregnancy.
Things to Keep in Mind Before Conducting the Exam
If you agree to move on with the pelvic exam, the following considerations should be kept in mind:
You should empty your bladder completely before a pelvic exam.
You should keep yourself warm and covered.
Privacy is a major concern, and for the same reason, you need to make clear beforehand whether you want hospital or clinic staff around or not.
You need to relax and take deep breaths so that your pelvic floor muscles relax too.
How is Pelvic Assessment during Pregnancy Done
When a pelvic exam is undergone usually the shape, the dimension and, the positioning of the pelvis is examined. One should also know that a pelvic exam involves mainly two components, i.e. manual and visual.
The manual evaluation involves checking of the vulva or more aptly the external genitalia, and the internal evaluation of the vaginal walls. On the other hand, the visual examination involves scrutinizing of all the pelvic organs with the help of a device known as the speculum.
The procedure of a pelvic exam is explained as follows:
The first step involves baring your lower part of the body and laying down on your back on a table.
Next, you need to lift your knees up and spread both of the legs wide apart.
The doctor with the gloved hands would then put his index and the middle finger into the vagina in order to examine the cervix.
A speculum test is undergone next. In this test, a speculum or a hollow cylinder that has a rounded end is inserted in the vagina. Once the speculum enters the vagina, it opens up so as to make it easy for the doctor to conduct the examination.
A Pap smear test may also be undergone during the pelvic exam in order to check for any cancerous elements in the cervix.
Bladder and rectal tests are also conducted sometimes in order to check for UTI and haemorrhoids.
Are There Any Risks Involved
The following risks may be involved in a pelvic exam:
Infections may spread due to a pelvic exam. This is due to bacteria that may be present in the vagina being pushed up the cervix.
Severe damage could also occur, i.e. the cervix may get stimulated which, in turn, could lead to labour. And, in case your baby is not yet developed to come out, the probability of a preterm baby would increase.
The pelvic exam could also lead to a condition known as PROM, i.e. premature rupture of membrane.
The result of a pelvic exam indicates the time when a woman would go into the labour. And, in case that time doesn’t match in reality, a woman may get anxious. This, in turn, can lead to her requesting for labour induction.
Can Pelvic Exam Indicate when You will Go into Labour
Though a pelvic exam can determine an approximate date when you would go into labour, the exact time and date are not at all feasible to know. There is a study that indicates that when a baby gets fully developed, a substance gets secreted from his lungs. This secreted substance, in turn, triggers labour. Therefore, the study rules out the fact that the cervix examination would indicate when labour would occur.
When your physician tells you that your cervix has dilated that nowhere means that you are nearing labour. It is known that a woman’s cervix dilates for about 1-2 cm, even for about a couple of weeks.
Hope that all the mentioned information has settled your curiosities well. Note that the pelvic exam can only be conducted based on your consent. No matter what the situation you should agree to go through the test.
Moreover, your doctor should explain in detail prior to the exam why it is important for your condition. Do not panic if there is spotting after a pelvic exam during pregnancy. A light bleeding after pelvis exam during pregnancy is pretty normal. But if heavy bleeding occurs post a pelvic exam that could pose an issue. Consult your doctor immediately if in case bleeding continues for over 24 hours.
Also Read:
Internal Check-up during Pregnancy
Pelvic Exam During Pregnancy – Procedure and Risks Associated Read more
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Birth to 4 Months Old Baby Food Ideas & Feeding Tips
Most paediatricians suggest that it is best to feed your baby breastmilk exclusively for the first six months after birth. However, for some, it might become necessary to supplement with formula. In the first year of birth, babies will gain thrice their birth weight. Thus, it becomes essential that they get all the necessary nutrients right from birth.
Which Nutrients are Important for the Child at this Stage?
Your baby needs the following nutrients to grow and develop well:
Folate – this is essential to help the cells in baby’s body to divide.
Calcium – helps in ensuring your baby has strong teeth and bones.
Iron – besides boosting blood cells, it helps in brain development. Your doctor might suggest iron supplements if your baby is exclusively breastfed.
Fat – ensures healthy hair and skin while providing protection against infections. It is also useful in brain development and provides energy.
Zinc – encourages cell repair and growth.
Carbohydrates and proteins – these are necessary to ensure your baby gets the required energy and growth stays on track.
Vitamins – different types of vitamins such as A, B1, B2, B3, B6, B12, C, D, E, and K are also essential to facilitate and enhance the normal functioning of the brain, immune system, nervous system, and blood clotting.
Infant formulas are usually fortified to ensure that they are as similar to breast milk as possible. Apart from the above nutrients, some formulas might also have essential fatty acids like DHA and ARA, nucleotides, prebiotics, and probiotics.
Feeding your Baby: Birth to 4 Months
It is important to encourage healthy eating habits in your baby right from the start. Baby feeding plans can usually be broadly categorized into three – baby-led schedules, parent-led feeding patterns, and combination feeding schedules. As the term indicates, baby-led schedules are determined by your infant and tend to be unstructured. Parent-led routines are where there are specific times for eating, playing, and sleeping. Combination feeding schedules tend to be flexible and though fixed by parents, can accommodate the child’s wishes to a certain extent. You have to determine which of these works best for your family based on baby’s needs and your daily lives.
How much and how Often should you Breastfeed?
As your infant grows older, the number of feedings will decline. Your baby is likely to sleep longer and have fewer bowel movements. On an average, your baby will feed about six to eight times each day. If your baby is alert, happy, active, gaining weight, developing well, wetting and soiling an adequate number of diapers each day, then it is likely that your baby is getting enough food. But if your infant seems unhappy after every feed and wants to continue feeding or is cranky and cries a lot, then it might be due to inadequate feeds.
How much and how Often should you Formula-Feed?
Breastmilk is easier to digest than formula. Thus, babies on formula are likely to feed less frequently than those who are breastfed. As they grow older, the number of feeds will decline further. It is important to take care not to overfeed your baby because it is easier for babies to drink from a bottle than the breast.
Feeding Tips to Feed a Newborn to 4-Month-Old Infant
The nutritional requirements of babies will vary as no two babies are alike.
Cues That Your Infant is Hungry
Your baby starts opens his mouth and turns his head towards the breast or the bottle.
The infant starts sucking on his fingers or hands.
Baby is extremely fussy and cries with clenched fists.
Signs of a Satisfied Baby
Baby is no longer interested in the breast or the bottle.
Falls asleep immediately after feeding.
Hands are relaxed and suck very slowly.
Other Things to Remember
Babies tend to have growth spurts, and for some, it can be at the start of the second week and again between three and six weeks.
Spit ups are common in young babies because the muscular valve connecting the oesophagus and the stomach is immature. This allows some of the stomach contents to come back up.
Bowel movements may be as frequent as one after every feed or even once a day or once in three days. This will vary from baby to baby, and so long as your baby is keeping to his schedule, everything should be fine.
For a 1-month baby, food will be all liquids. Avoid giving babies solid foods until they are at least six months old.
When breastfeeding, be sure to switch breasts midway. This way, you will ensure constant milk supply and also avoid engorgement. It can take your baby anywhere between five to 15 minutes to empty one breast. Changing breasts too quickly can deprive your child of the rich hindmilk which is extremely nutritious and filling.
Be sure to burp your baby every time you switch breasts. Babies who spit up a lot may have to be burped more often.
For a 2-months baby, food choices are limited. This is also true when it comes to a 3-months baby. Food is ideally breast milk or formula for infants up to six months. If for some reason, you need to start solids early, you can come up with a 4-month baby food schedule in consultation with your doctor.
Since babies have small tummies, they need to be fed frequently to meet their growth and developmental milestones. Since babies survive solely on milk, either breast milk or formula, for the first four months of their life, it is important to ensure that these are nutritional. Breastfeeding mothers need to eat a healthy diet as this is what gets passed on to the baby. When picking a formula, choose a reputed brand which is adequately fortified.
Disclaimer: This information is just a guide and not a substitute for medical advice from a qualified professional.
Also Read:
Common Digestive Problems in Babies
Introducing Water to Babies
Food Ideas for 4 to 6 Months Old Babies Read more
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How to Take Care of Yourself After Becoming a Mother
When was the last time when you took a day off to spend some time alone or to meet all your friends? When was the last time you read that book lying on the shelf? When was the last time when you stepped out of the home for work without feeling guilty?
I am a mother, and I totally understand that it feels too selfish to leave your baby and have some me time. But 'me time' is important as not taking care of yourself can actually lead to several major issues like frustration, low self-esteem, and sadness.
So before these issues get to you, start showing love to yourself.
Here are Some Ideas For Moms to Have a Great Time
1. Pamper Yourself at Home
Buy some quality facial and massage kits. Once in two weeks, let someone else take care of your baby, lock your room, and enjoy your massage and facial session. Taking care of your skin, your hair, and your health on your own is far more therapeutic than going to a salon for these things.
2. Exercise
If you are someone like me, the idea of working out can scare you, but If I can start doing it, you can too! All you need to do is to sit down on a yoga mat (whether in the morning or evening) in a corner and do breathing exercises. Continue this for 21 days and you will not even realize when you actually started working out and how your time increased from 10 minutes to an hour.
3. Find Your Passion
I know there is a phase in our life where we don’t know what we want. But, it's never too late to find out. Try cooking, singing, painting, etc. Experiment and you will find it gradually. If you already know, start practising it daily. For example start writing for free if you enjoy blogging, start singing with karaoke, or sing and record your voice if you like to sing.
4. Dress Well
You don’t need to wait to lose weight to look great. Looking great is all about being well groomed and presentable. Don’t give up on yourself just because you have put on some kilos. Love yourself for who you are and take small steps to lose your weight. Dress perfectly and you will look beautiful.
5. Go Out and Get Some Fresh Air
Staying indoors and just being a mom, all day long can be tiring and that is not going to make you a great mom. Step out of your house and meet people; go to a coffee house, and just enjoy doing what you like. Remain the person who you have always been.
You can have it all and still enjoy motherhood. Happy motherhood!
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
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Tips to Help You Prioritise YOUR Well-being This Year
The fact that this article caught your attention means that you probably find yourself looking at the mirror every morning looking all disheveled and exhausted because you spent all morning running behind your child just so they could finish their milk.
Parenting is hard, but it’s time to stop being hard on yourself. Yes, you still have to think what you should pack for lunch for your kid the next morning, but that doesn’t mean that you can’t think of how you could be fitter this coming year, or how you could wear some actual makeup and not those dark circles once in a while. We are at the brink of this year and you’ve probably spent all of it questioning yourself, “Am I doing the right thing by letting my little one have chocolate, what if he gets cavities?” You too were a kid and you too had lollipops every once in a while, but you grew up just fine. In 2019, put yourself in your child’s teeny tiny shoes and bring out the child in you. Be a little selfish this year, be your own best friend and invest time in creating a better version of yourself. In the end, taking care of yourself is a part of taking care of your kids.
Just as you read Benjamin Spock’s Baby and Child Care so that you could be the best version of a parent for your child, consider these pointers as guidelines to be the best version of yourself so that you can find yourself this new year.
To feel better on the outside, you need to first feel better on the inside. Kickstart your mornings by having a glass of lemon water with honey or by having a handful of almonds. Get rid of those built-up toxins so that you can take on your day with a more positive outlook.
Were you a fitness fanatic when you were a twenty something and going for a run was your 'thing'. Well, it doesn’t have to change. When your kid is fast asleep or has already left for school, slip into those joggers and trainers, plug in your earphones blasting with your favourite song and run, ‘ run for your life’!
Invest 30 minutes of your day on yourself, get a fancy yoga mat with vibrant, happy colours and meditate. Remember, that half an hour is just yours. Don’t think about how your kid is still playing outside and needs to do his homework. Rather, think about happy things, about how you look great in that new dress that you bought last week.
Quick tip : Get a wind chime and concentrate on the tinkling sound while you meditate.
Cook your favourite dish once or twice a week. After all, a happy heart and a happy stomach is all it takes.
Indulge yourself occasionally by buying a bag or dress that you loved online. Once a month, ask your partner to stay at home instead and go for a spa day. Self- pampering is necessary and you deserve to give yourself a treat once in a while.
Enroll yourself to a Zumba or Aerobics session and dance your heart out. This way you’ll learn something new, make some new friends and also burn some calories. Win- win!
Fun- fact: Your brain releases a chemical called serotonin which are also known as ‘ happy hormones’ when you dance.
Go out on a movie or dinner date once a month. Don’t forget that you still need some couple time even though you are parents. A evening of laughing together and reliving your old times will not only make you happy but also help you in being better parents. You can’t pour from an empty cup. Take care of yourself first.
As you step into the New Year, make a promise to yourself, a promise to bring out the child in you while you care for your own. When your kid watches Tom and Jerry, sit and watch with them, laugh a little, paint with them, relive your own childhood with them. In the end, you owe yourself the love that you so generously shower on your kids every minute of their lives.Happy Parenting!
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Top 10 New Year's Resolution Ideas for Parents
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MINNU - THE LIMITLESS OF SKY-JOURNEY OF PREGNACY FOR A DOCTOR
It was a miracle journey,,covid was a boon for us.we both are doctors busy with our duties and job constraints we a apart eachother due to pandemic situation.. luckily during post duty off for 14days in a month gave us chances for planning pregnancy.by god's grace my wife Dr sneha neonatologist suprised me with UPT postive followed by USG..we both and our families were blessed and unforgettable moments.At the same time we had other good news that is my own brother and brother in law also shared the news that their wife also UPT positive..It was a coincidence
During these nine months journey we faced many things due to migraine, covid,lockdown,journey issues consultation problems,exams my wife wrote fellowship exam durning 1st trimester which caused oligo..low normal AFI..which tensed us..later during 5th fetal medicine doctor says can't find gastric bubble..as we look different cases we were nervous later exclusive to show again for TIFFA we traveled 150km to show radiologist who is close friend..where she confirmed every thing was normal and perfect..these were two situations panicked us a lot.. throughout pregnancy my wife used DHA, ARGUMUST SATCHETS as general my wife doesn't consume water during these days she drank daily 5litres..repeated checkups,scans as we are doctors we have many gynec n radio friends who did very good in their busy hours..what ever the end result was good.. Finally we planned for c section..myself my father in law both were anesthesiologist and we called neonatolgist senior pediatrician in town,main obstetrician 2 and stand by 3othrs who are family friends with all their blessings.. February 13 morning 10:31am blessed with baby boy.. who is our incarnation..,,❤️we used to call him MINNU throughout pregnancy his nickname..and we named him as SIDDHIK AAYANSH ❤️😘 Read more
Santu has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
12 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert
1) till how many days after delivery baby needs to keep on uterus temperatures/warm temperature?
2) Can baby & mother both take bath after 24 hours of delivery?
Santu
Mom of 2 children
11 hours ago
A. It depends on moms and babys health I feel and suggest It's better to check with your doctor and follow their advise. That would be one of the best and safest option for your baby as of now. Take care.
shilpi Bhandari has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
11 hours ago
Q. dual marker test is for what purpose??
shilpi Bhandari
Mom of 2 children
11 hours ago
A. The double marker test helps determine whether the unborn baby has any risk of developing neurological abnormalities or mental disorders
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Mom of a 7 m old child
6 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts
How to cure constipation in Babies
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
6 hours ago
A. Constipation in Babies less than 1 year is very common and more in formula fed babies and also when initially the semi solid food has been started after 6 months .
you can give bonnisan drops and some enzyme preparations in proper dose suggested by doctor angyd cow's milk should be avoided before 1 year of age . Medications are required but it shobuld be given only in medical supervision .
Rashmi has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
6 hours ago
Q. Hello, I'm a hypothyroidism patients consumes 25mg tab,
can I take apple cider vinegar?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
5 hours ago
A. I don’t think so ACv is going to be a problem but it would be better that you check with your doctor because Apple cider vinegar has couple of side-effects also also which a lot of people are not aware about so do not take it without your doctors advice and consent
Anitha S has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts can i go for long trips with my 7 months old baby
Anitha S
Mom of a 7 m old boy
4 hours ago
A. if you want you may go by taking all the necessary things for baby but see through that your baby doesn't feel any discomfort
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
2 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts plz suggest me medicine for toothache
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. A proper assessment is required here so regarding this it is vmore favourable to contact your local doctor and accordingly he will guide in a proper manner.
If any more queries you can tgake online consultation on the platform for a detailed discussion .
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