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Breast and Nipple Care During Pregnancy
Pregnancy is the time when your body goes through a number of changes to accommodate and provide for the new baby. Changes in the breasts and the areolas, or the area around the nipples, are a definitive part of pregnancy. However, if proper care is not taken, these changes may cause discomfort or significantly alter the shape of your breasts after pregnancy.
Though you may have a busy time during pregnancy, preparing to welcome your baby home, a few short tips and routines will help you take care of your body, prevent any discomfort caused due to the changes in your body, and enjoy pregnancy at the same time.
Common Breast Changes During Pregnancy
Pregnancy tends to change the appearance and feel of your breasts in a number of ways, many of which can even cause discomfort. Here are some common breast changes you may notice during pregnancy.
1. Growth and Tenderness
Your breasts can grow as much as 1.5 sizes bigger during pregnancy and feel tender, sore, and more sensitive than usual.
2. Darkening of Nipples and Areolas
The hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause the nipples and areolas, which is the skin around your nipples, to become dark.
3. Colostrum Leakage
You may experience leakage of colostrum, which is a thick, yellowish substance, from the breasts.
4. Darkening of Veins
The veins along your breasts may darken and become prominent due to increased blood supply to the breasts.
5. Enlargement of Nipples
The nipples and areolas will become larger and stick out more during pregnancy.
Tips for Breast and Nipple Care in Pregnancy
Most women tend to ignore breast care during pregnancy, which can make it tough to de Here are a few tips for proper breast care during pregnancy that you can incorporate into your everyday regimen.
1. Get the Right Bra
Since your breasts continue to increase in size starting from the first trimester, you may have to change your bra size a few times. Always remember to wear the right sized bra to avoid suffocation and discomfort. Avoid tight bras and bras with underwire. Instead, opt for softly padded cotton bras. Underwired bras tend to hamper milk production by blocking the milk ducts. You can also look for bras that offer you the right back support, which is essential for your growing breasts.
2. Massage
Your nipples may get dry, and crack during pregnancy. Hence, it is important to retain moisture around the nipple area. You can do this by using olive oil or coconut oil and gently massaging the nipples before bath. Massaging the breasts with coconut oil can also aid in blood circulation, lift them up, keep them firm, and prevent sagging of the breasts that is common during pregnancy.
3.Maintain Hygiene
Nipples tend to leak colostrum, a yellow milk substance, especially during the last trimester. This can happen often and it is important that you change your bra to avoid the nipples being too wet, as this may lead to cracks and infections. You can also use breast pads to keep your nipples dry. Also, remember to wash your nipples regularly to prevent the liquid from forming a crust around it.
4. No Soap on the Nipple
Always ensure to not use any soap on the nipple during your daily baths. Soap tends to dry out the nipples and it can lead to cracking of the nipple area.
5. Moisturising Creams
After you step out of the shower, it is a good idea to apply some moisturising cream on the nipples if they feel too dry.
6. Nipple Protectors
Some women may suffer from sore nipples that can be hard to bear. You can get some nipple protectors, which can be used as a pad between the clothing and the nipples to prevent the soreness from being aggravated.
Precautions You Should Take
While some of the changes in the breasts come as a part and parcel of pregnancy, there are others that can be avoided with proper care and precautions. Taking the following precautionary measures can help you in your breast care routine during pregnancy.
Always use warm water to wash your breasts. However, ensure to use water that is below 45 degree Celsius to avoid harm to your baby.
Change your bra on a regular basis, at least once in a day. This prevents discomfort due to sweat and leakage from the nipples.
Check your breasts every day for any changes. If you notice any irregular changes that cause you to worry, do not hesitate to contact your doctor.
Make simple exercises, like arm rotations, a part of your everyday work out to prevent the breasts from sagging during pregnancy.
Pregnancy can be a stressful time for new mothers and many women seldom find time to care for their bodies. However, ignoring parts of your body, such as the breasts, during this time can make them sag and look out of shape. Allotting a little time every day to take care of your breasts and nipples can go a long way during pregnancy and keep your post-pregnancy body in a good shape for many years to come.
References and Resources: MedicalNewsToday
Also Read: How to Deal With Cracked or Bleeding Nipples Read more
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Top Christmas Gift Ideas for Everyone in 2019
Why do we give presents on Christmas? Traditionally, the custom of giving and receiving gifts during Christmas originates from the presents given to Jesus by the Wise Men. Ever since, this has been a glorious occasion to share and spread joy. But, what should you gift your loved ones that will surprise and please them at the same time?
Spend some time picking the best Christmas presents for everyone around you, which are within your budget as well. After all, there's nothing like unwrapping presents and seeing your loved one's faces light up on Xmas morning, is there? We give you top Christmas gift ideas for everyone in your life - your children, spouse, parents, friends or relatives. Let's go shopping and make Christmas morning a merry one for everyone!
Christmas Gift Ideas for Kids
1. A Big, Cuddly Teddy Bear
Let's be honest, a lot of us are still in love with our teddy bears from childhood! Your little one is going to love a furry friend of his own. Choose a cute teddy bear, and he's going to be loved and taken along everywhere; trust us on that!
2. A Train Set
Get a toy train set that gets your kids' imagination rolling. You'll have many quiet afternoons when little dolls and stuffed animals will ride in the train's carriages, with your child occupied for hours on end.
3. Musical Instrument
This is one of the best Christmas gift ideas for kids. Music has healing powers, calms kids, and most importantly, keeps them busy. Invest in a keyboard, a drumset or even a guitar. Your child is surely going to love making music!
Christmas Gift Ideas for Husband
1. A Fancy Camera
Nothing like preserving memories forever, right? Gift your better half a camera he will love clicking pictures with. This also gives you the excuse to take more family vacations, right?
2. Grooming Set
Get your husband a fancy grooming set, and he will be all set to feel like a king! One of the best Christmas gifts for men, a grooming set is a much-loved gift for all occasions and gives him the perfect opportunity to use it to spruce up for the holidays too.
3. Mobile Phone
This season is overflowing with new gadget releases, so why not upgrade your husbands's phone? Get your husband a new mobile phone with the latest features such as increased RAM, longer battery life, a high resolution front camera, and much more.
Christmas Gift Ideas for Parents
1. Box Set of Books
Is your Dad a book-aholic? There are some exquisite book sets available in the market, which will add oodles of charm to his library. Pick a non-fiction historical set, a sports series, or a classic cartoon strip collection as a Christmas gift for your dad.
2. Make Up Set
Gift your mom a makeup set with essentials. This is one smart gift idea – not only because your mum's going to feel like a queen, but also because she is sure to share her loot with you.
3. Stylish Heels
Have you been meaning to go shopping for your mum but never got around to it? Get her a set of stylish heels or other footwear she likes, and ask her to wear this to Christmas dinner. This Christmas gift for moms will definitely make your Mom feel special!
Want to make it extra special for Mom and Dad but are running on a shoe-string budget? Check out some cool DIY gift ideas.
1. Handmade Soap
Melt down a plain soap and simply add colours and scents, and you've got a lovely handmade soap. Play around with ingredients such as rosewater, peppermint and essential oils, and be as creative as possible.
2. Handmade Photo Frame
Collect pictures of your parents and you to make a collage. Then, use easily available materials like popsicle sticks, pista shells, etc., and paint it to make a creative photoframe to place the pictures in. This is a memorable and thoughtful gift that your parents are sure to appreciate.
Christmas Gift Ideas for Relatives
1. Evergreen Potted Plant
A bit of nature always gets people smiling! Brighten up your relatives' home with a dash of colour. Pick an evergreen variety such as pothos or aloe vera plants.
2. A Box of Cookies
What's that aroma? A big box of homemade gingerbread cookies that smell oh-so-festive! You can get some simple Christmas cookies from your nearby bakery or easily make a few batches yourself.
3. Comfy Cushions
You can never get enough of lazing by the fireplace on Christmas – or sunbathing in the balcony, as the case may be. A pair of cozy cushions can make winter infinitely better!
Christmas Gift Ideas for Friends
1. Pretty Earrings
Who minds another set of earrings to add to their collection? No one! If your friend is fond of accessories, go ahead and get her a christmassy set of jewellery.
2. Santa Coffee Mug and Tea Light
'Tis the season of snow! Whether or not you live in a cold place, coffee and Christmas go along beautifully. Get your friend a cute Santa mug paired with a pretty tea light she can decorate her study table with.
3. A Box of Chocolates
Dry fruits, caramel or liquor, chocolates just rule the roost when it comes to being classic gifts. This is one one of the best Christmas gifts for friends. Pick a nicely wrapped box and add a personalised message.
Christmas is the season of gifting and with these gift ideas you can give your loved ones thoughtful gifts that they'll appreciate and cherish for a long time to come. Merry Christmas! Read more
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Oedema Swelling during Pregnancy - Causes and Relief
Pregnancy is a boon to women. God has blessed us with immense strength and courage to carry a human life inside us. Motherhood is surely the best experience a woman can have. Dealing with all unwanted symptoms and body changes, a woman forgets everything she went through when she holds her baby in her arms. A famous saying goes, "No pain, no gain" which is very true. All women suffer a lot during pregnancy but for their ultimate joy, their baby. Pregnancy can make you super excited at times as well as very disappointed or frustrated due to unwanted hormonal changes and mood swings. If you were very light on your feet before being pregnant, pregnancy can make you feel heavier. This is because of extra body fluids sinking to your feet especially if you spend a lot of time on your feet.
What Causes Oedema?
All women suffer from Oedema during the 5th month which increases in the 3rd trimester. Swelling in the feet and ankles is caused due to extra fluids in the body and pressure from the growing uterus. This could be very bothersome for women but you get used to it as your pregnancy progresses.
What to Do for Relief?
For some relief, prop up your feet while sitting and avoid crossing your legs. Avoid standing for too long. A swollen foot is not harmful for you but it can make you very uncomfortable. Usually, swelling in the feet and ankles goes away by time as you deliver your baby.
In nutshell, pregnancy body changes take time to go away after delivery. I guess that is why in India when you get pregnant, it is said: "Paon bhari hai" which means "You have heavy feet." Stay happy and enjoy every bit of being a mother.
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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5 Fitness Divas - Get Inspired!
As moms, you need to endeavour to stay fit. You and your family both need it! Draw some inspiration from sportswomen of India. These fascinating players have carved out niches for themselves and continue to amaze with their degree of fitness and dedication!
India has a rich tradition in sports and our sportswomen continue to do us proud! They work hard, strive towards their goal, keep fit, and earn accolades for themselves and their country. Some even have kids and have successfully juggled their dreams and family life. Get inspired, get encouraged and get active!
5 Famous Sportswomen in India
1. Sania Mirza
Her name is synonymous with success and global popularity. She’s been celebrated as one of the most famous faces of Indian sportswomen. Sania Mirza is easily the most successful Indian female tennis player, and has recently achieved greater success by winning her first Wimbledon title in the doubles category.
2. Saina Nehwal
Saina Nehwal has fast become a household name. She created history when she became the first Indian player to win a bronze medal in badminton at the 2012 London Olympics. She is the first Indian female sports player to be ranked world no. 1 in badminton and continues to shine.
3. Mary Kom
Mary Kom, or ‘magnificent Mary’ as she’s often known, needs no introduction. She is the five-time World Boxing Champion, and the only woman boxer to have won a medal in each of the six world championships. She is the only Indian woman to have qualified for the 2012 summer Olympics and also won the bronze medal. Mary Kom has many firsts to her name; she is also the first Indian woman boxer to get a Gold Medal in the 2014 Asian Games!
4. Jwala Gutta
An accomplished badminton player, Jwala Gutta received the Arjuna Award in 2011. She has an unforgiving style on the court, and is an aggressive player. She is one of the best female doubles badminton player in India, and has won the National Championship 14 times till 2013. She’s also noted for her social activism.
5. Sonika Kaliraman
Sonika Kaliraman is the daughter of former wrestler Chandgi Ram. This 6-foot tall wrestler exudes elegance and has made a name for herself in a field that is traditionally dominated by men. She is the only Indian female wrestler who has had the honour of representing the country at the Asian games and as a member of the Indian squad in the Doha Asian Games. In her wrestling career, she has clinched a whopping 16 national level titles.
All these wonderful sportswomen of India have faced great odds in their careers and have overcome them to emerge victorious. They have persevered in their chosen fields to receive great accolades. They’re successful wives, mothers, daughters, homemakers, as well as extremely successful sportswomen. Take some time out to appreciate sportswomen, not just for the fame they’ve brought to our country, but for encouraging us to push our limits and test our boundaries. Cheers to fitness! Read more
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Rashmi has added a new answer
Mom of a 9 m old child
13 hours ago
Q. My daughter (9months old) is not at all willing to drink aptamil and breast milk I am getting only 100 ml per day now. I have tried adding jaggery powder in aptamil but still she is not at all willing to drink.I tried to feed her with aptamil midnight when she was in deep sleep but still she woke up and started crying. I am not able to find any solution for this.Its been 2 days that I have started trying aptamil.So I will continue to try for another week and if she still doesn't drink can you suggest what can be done
Read moreRashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
12 hours ago
A. For yourself I would recommend you Shatavari powder three times in the day to increase your lactation other than that since your child is six months complete you can give Amul Taaza milk to your child that is easier for the childhood digest and flavour is also good even if you want you can add some dry fruit powder saffron or turmeric for flavour change that’s also a good option to try these alternative
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Mom of a 1 yr 5 m old child
10 hours ago
Q. after delivey back pain is normal???
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
8 hours ago
A. If there is back pain you have to maintain a proper posture take a healthy diet and also do some regular exercise specially back extension exercises to strengthen muscles also you can take calcium and iron supplements suggested by yohur doctor imf still you are having weakness and other symptoms it needs a proper assessment
Abhaya Rajput has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
10 hours ago
Q. Its been 7 days my 8 month old hasn’t pooped. He looks good not at all cranky. Eating normally. What to do?
Abhaya Rajput
Mom of a 14 yr 4 m old boy
7 hours ago
A. Hello there ma’am please do not worry about it too much. Sometimes baby does not poop for 7-10 days. Please massage baby stomach clockwise and anti-clockwise. You can also apply hing water on baby stomach. Also do some cycling leg exercises of the baby to relieve from constipation and gas. Please make the baby burp after every feed. Mother should chew saunf and ajwain after every meal.
Thanks and take care
Mohammad amin has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
6 hours ago
Q. how do i claim the vochure
Mohammad amin
Guardian of a 3 yr old boy
2 hours ago
A. proper question plzz
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
2 hours ago
Q. I m 18 weeks pregnant this is my 2nd pregnancy i had first miscarriage at 35 weeks my question is when do i feel my baby’s movement
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
1 hour ago
A. The baby movements are sent after completing the time of 20 weeks somewhere between the time of 20 weeks to 25 weeks you can start feeling movements of your child any time if you feel that there is a problem or you’re not feeling sufficient movements then please feel free to consult your gynaecologist regarding that
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
1 hour ago
Q. #asktheexperts what should I listen to in 5 weeks
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
23 mins ago
A. five weeks only first trimester 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
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