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Fourth Month Pregnancy Diet (13-16 Weeks)
The fourth month of pregnancy is a time when the unpleasant side-effects of pregnancy, such as headaches, morning sickness, and mood swings, disappear. You may not feel strong food aversions after the first trimester, and you may have food cravings. The second trimester is regarded as the most comfortable of the three trimesters. This is also the period when your baby grows the most and your blood volume increases, so that the baby can get nourishment from the nutrients absorbed by your blood. Hence, your diet during the fourth month of pregnancy should include all the nutrients that are required for the baby’s healthy growth and development.
What to Include in Your Fourth-Month Pregnancy Diet?
It is important to plan what to eat during the second trimester of pregnancy. Your fourth month pregnancy diet chart should include the following:
1. Iron-rich Foods
As your blood volume increases in the fourth month, you should include iron-rich foods to meet the higher level of iron requirement. Examples of iron-rich foods are meat, fish, tofu, liver, soybeans, whole grains like brown rice, nuts and seeds, dark green leafy vegetables like kale and spinach, dried fruits, and eggs.
2. Fibre-rich Foods
In the fourth month of pregnancy, the hormone progesterone slows down digestion. Your uterus starts to grow in size to accommodate your growing baby. This causes constipation. To prevent constipation and stimulate regular bowel movements, you should eat foods rich in fibre. Examples include whole grains like oatmeal, bran, and barley, seeds like flaxseeds and chia, nuts like almonds, pecans, and pistachios, vegetables like Brussels sprouts, broccoli, sweet corn, artichokes, and green peas, and fruits like raspberries, strawberries, figs, apples, bananas, and pears.
3. Calcium-rich Foods
Calcium is very important for the development of strong bones in your baby. Foods rich in calcium are kale, milk, yoghurt, cheese, sardines, watercress, broccoli, okra, and almonds.
4. Foods Rich in Zinc and Vitamin C
Zinc is a trace element essential for building proteins, and the development of a healthy nervous system and immune system. Foods rich in zinc include oysters, lamb, beef, spinach, wheat germ, mushrooms, pumpkin and squash seeds, nuts, chicken, and beans. Vitamin C is essential for the absorption of iron in the body. Foods rich in Vitamin C are green and red peppers, tomatoes, sweet potatoes, broccoli, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, cabbage, and leafy greens.
5. Foods Rich in Omega Fatty Acids
Omega-3 fatty acids are essential for eye and brain development in the foetus. Omega-6 fatty acids are important for heart health, proper functioning of the reproductive system, and skin, hair, and bone growth. Foods rich in omega fatty acids include vegetable oils, salmon, sardines, soybeans, nuts like walnuts and almonds, and seeds like chia and flax.
6. Fruits and Vegetables
It is important to include at least five portions of fruits and vegetables per day. Fresh produce has the highest level of nutrients, followed by frozen produce. You should also include some raw vegetables in the form of a salad. Fresh fruit is healthier than fruit juices.
7. Proteins and Carbohydrates
Proteins are the building blocks of muscles, tissues, and DNA. Carbohydrates are the energy source for our body. Include adequate amounts of proteins and starchy carbohydrates in your diet. Examples of proteins are legumes, lentils, nuts, seeds, nut butter, meat, chicken, quinoa, and soybeans. Examples of starchy carbohydrates are potatoes, rice, pasta and bread. An Indian diet during the pregnancy’s fourth month should, therefore, include dal, whole wheat roti, porridge made from ragi, oats or dalia, dosa, chana (chickpeas) and rajma (kidney beans).
8. Foods Rich in Folic Acid
Your body needs extra blood during pregnancy, and folic acid helps with just that. Research has shown that almost 70% of neural tube defects can be prevented by consuming folic acid. Most prenatal vitamins contain folic acid, but you can also get your daily requirement through food. Some foods rich in this essential nutrient are lentils, green leafy vegetables, beans, and nuts.
9. Vitamin D- rich foods
Vitamin D is necessary for calcium absorption in the bones, which is needed for the baby to develop strong bones and teeth. It also helps maintain healthy skin and eyesight. Milk and fatty fish like salmon are good sources of Vitamin D, along with sunlight, of course.
Fourth Month of Pregnancy - What to Avoid?
There are some foods which may harm the baby if eaten during pregnancy. Here is a list of foods to avoid during the fourth month of pregnancy:
1. Liquorice
Consuming excessive amounts of black liquorice during pregnancy has been linked to lower IQ in babies. Liquorice also contains chemicals that can trigger uterine contractions, causing preterm labour. Hence, it is best to avoid foods containing liquorice.
2. Refined Flour
Refined flour, known as maida in India, is difficult to digest and can cause constipation and even lead to haemorrhoids post-delivery. It also spikes up blood sugar levels, as it has a high glycaemic index. This can lead to gestational diabetes, which is harmful to both the mother and baby. Stick to whole-wheat foods and avoid refined flour.
3. Ocean Fish
Ocean fish like white tuna, king mackerel, and swordfish contain high levels of mercury. Mercury can cause brain damage in the foetus and has been linked to mental retardation in babies. So, avoid ocean fish and stick to freshwater fish like salmon or trout.
4. Blue Cheese
Blue cheese like Camembert and soft cheeses like Brie may contain microorganisms like bacteria or listeria that can cause food poisoning in the mother. This will affect the baby’s health and development. So, avoid blue cheese and soft cheeses, and eat only hard cheeses like Parmesan or Cheddar.
5. Raw Eggs and Undercooked Meat
Raw eggs may contain salmonella bacteria that can cause salmonellosis, a kind of food poisoning. This can harm the baby. So, eat only cooked eggs. Undercooked meat can also cause salmonella poisoning, so make sure all the meat you consume is thoroughly cooked.
6. Pâté
Pâté is a mixture of cooked ground meat and fat in the form of a spreadable paste. Any type of pâté has a risk of listeria infection. Hence, it is better to avoid pâté during pregnancy.
7. Caffeine
Excess consumption of caffeine increases your heart rate and also causes nervousness, irritability and sleeplessness. It can be harmful to the baby and has also been linked to miscarriages. Hence, it is better to limit caffeine intake to 200 milligrams per day.
8. Artificial Sweeteners
Artificial sweetners are not harmful when consumed within a limit. However, try and substitute natural sweetners such as honey, dates, or maple syrup wherever possible.
9. Salt
Salt retains water in the body and causes bloating, along with increasing blood pressure. Hence, consume salt in moderation. Try and use low-sodium salt, which is much healthier.
Diet Tips for the Fourth Month
Here are some diet tips to follow during the fourth month of pregnancy:
Drink enough water. A pregnant woman, on average, requires around 2.3 litres of water per day.
Avoid eating excessive quantities of fried food, spicy food or food containing high amounts of salt or sugar.
Ground flax seeds can be sprinkled over your salads or in oatmeal, yoghurt, etc. They are a great source of dietary fibre and omega-3 fatty acids.
Do not eat too many sweets, as it will lead to gestational diabetes and unnecessary weight gain.
Avoid having tea or coffee with meals and iron supplements, as the tannins present in them can prevent iron from being absorbed by the body.
Make sure fruits and vegetables are thoroughly washed to remove germs, soil and pesticide residues.
The fourth month of pregnancy is a comfortable time for the mother-to-be. Regular exercise, healthy food, and remaining stress-free and calm at this time will ensure that your baby is healthy. Make sure you consult your doctor for advice before making any changes in your diet. Read more
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9 Home Remedies for Constipation in Toddlers
Constipation is a common problem in children. If you have just introduced solid food to your child, then it will take his tummy some time to adjust to that food. Your little tot may not poop for days and if he does, his poop might be too hard. He may even lose his appetite. All these signs indicate constipation. If your child is constipated, you will obviously try to figure out what you can do to make him feel better. If you are considering giving over-the-counter medicines then don't, because doctors don't recommend over-the-counter medicines to toddlers. You can always opt for home remedies - home remedies are safe and will provide your child with immediate relief.
9 Natural Remedies for Constipation in Toddlers
Using natural remedies as a first-line treatment is often recommended. So try these home remedies to relieve constipation in toddlers.
1. Give him lemon juice.
Lemon juice works as a great remedy for constipation in babies and toddlers. Lemons are high in Vitamin C, which helps pull water into the gut. When the water content increases in the gut, it helps soften the stools and stimulate bowel movements. Mix the juice of half a lemon in a glass of warm water, add honey to it and give it to your child. Ideally, it should be consumed early in the morning on an empty stomach. Drinking it in the morning will stimulate your child's bowel movement and help ease constipation. Apart from lemon juice, you can also give prune juice and apple juice to your toddler if he is suffering from constipation.
2. Try triphala.
Triphala, as the name suggests, is a combination of three medicinal herbs. These are amalaki, bibhitaki, and haritaki. Triphala has multiple benefits and it is usually consumed with milk. Add a spoonful of triphala to warm milk and give it to your child before bedtime. It is the best herbal remedy for constipation. This is one of the most popular Indian home remedies for constipation in toddlers.
3. Water is always the best choice!
This may seem like a no-brainer but sometimes parents fail to track whether their children are drinking enough water or not. Water is extremely important for ensuring proper digestion and passage of food through the intestinal tract. Drinking adequate water also prevents stool from being dry. So make sure that your child stays hydrated.
4. How about some honey and flax seeds?
Honey helps strengthen the immune system and aids the digestive system as well. Add 1-2 spoonfuls of honey to a glass of milk and give it to your child on an empty stomach. Flax seeds too can help treat constipation. Boil some flax seeds in water for some time, then strain and give this water to your child. This will prevent constipation.
5. Let him exercise and take a warm bath.
An absence of physical activity results in digestion problem and reduced metabolism, which furthers the symptoms of constipation. Keeping your toddler busy in some kind of physical activity every day will stimulate his bowel movements. Make sure your child plays outdoors for at least an hour every day. To provide him relief from constipation, you can also give him a warm bath. Add a few spoons of baking soda in his bathwater and let your child relax in it for ten to fifteen minutes.
6. Include fibrous foods in his diet.
Consuming fruits and vegetables that have a substantial amount of fibre in them aids bowel movements. If rice cereal is a part of your child’s diet, replace it with barley cereal. Along with barley cereal, you can also give a fruit juice to your tot, this will provide him relief from constipation. You should also include vegetables like beans, spinach, sweet potato, and broccoli, and fruits like oranges and apricots in your child’s diet to keep constipation at bay. You can also give corn syrup to your child as it contains sugar-based proteins. These proteins also play a key role in stimulating the bowel movements in a child.
7. Give him blackberries.
Blackberry is highly useful in the stimulation of peristaltic movement. These are involuntary movements in the digestive tract that occur in waves and help in pushing the food forward. This helps reset the bowel movement to a regular routine and aid in the passing of poop. Consuming blackberry by diluting it with water on an empty stomach helps in getting the desired result.
8. Give a mixture of banana and hot water.
This is quite a popular remedy for constipation. Combining banana with hot water, and consuming it first thing in the morning, is known to aid digestion, which in turn, helps relieve the problem of constipation.
9. Milk of magnesia works too!
Many people also use milk of magnesia to treat constipation as it a form of laxative. It primarily functions by pushing water into the intestines, which triggers the bowel movements. But this is used for a short duration only. You can mix a spoonful of the powder with milk and feed it to your child. But try this remedy only after consulting with your child's paediatrician.
When to Consult a Doctor
If you try a natural remedy for a day or two and it does not show desired results then consult your doctor immediately. Furthermore, if your child is constipated for more than two weeks, seek medical help.
FAQs
1. How Will You Know That Your Toddler is Constipated?
If your child has a bowel movement fewer than three times a week, then it is a sign of constipation. Some other symptoms of constipation include stomach ache, nausea, loss of appetite, and bloating. If your child cries or screams while pooping, then he might be having a hard time pooping, and no doubt, it is a sign that he is constipated.
2. Should You Administer Enema for Constipation?
If your child has failed to have bowel movements for many days, he must be in pain. In such a situation, you might want to resort to artificial medicines to stimulate his bowel movements. You can administer enema but only after consulting with a doctor. The enema should be administered at night so that it ends up lubricating the area around the rectum and makes the process of passing stools easier. Ideally, coconut oil should be used for enema as it triggers the intestines and stimulates the bowel movement. But enema should be used as a last resort and only after consulting with a doctor. Do NOT try to administer enema to your child on your own and without supervision.
Natural remedies provide relief from constipation and aid digestion. So try these remedies for your child – he will be fine in a couple of days. However, if these remedies fail to work, do consult a doctor. But prevention is always better than cure. So try to prevent constipation by including healthy and fibrous foods in your child's diet. Also, make sure that he indulges in some kind of physical activity daily and stays hydrated! Take preventive measures and your little one won't complain of constipation at all!
Also Read:
Dealing with Gas Problems in Toddlers
Loose Motions (Diarrhoea) in Toddlers Read more
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Surprising Benefits of Milk With Honey
Milk and honey are both a source of many essential nutrients for the body. When combined together, they have numerous health benefits, from improving the health of your skin and hair to helping in digestion, sleep disorders, stamina and bone health. Continue reading for all you need to know about the advantages of milk with honey.
Amazing Health Benefits of Milk and Honey
Here are 11 reasons why you should drink honey and milk.
1. Helps in Digestion
Honey being prebiotic promotes the growth of useful or ‘good’ bacteria in the digestive system. When milk is consumed every day with a few drops of honey, it helps restore the healthy bacterial flora needed for a good digestive system. Therefore, regular consumption helps maintain the gastrointestinal tract healthy by eliminating bloating, constipation and cramps.
2. Stamina Booster
Among the known cold milk and honey benefits is its ability to improve stamina. When a glass of the drink is consumed in the morning you receive carbohydrates, proteins and other essential nutrients needed for a fresh start for the day. Honey is also known to improve the metabolic rate and hence speeding up the bodily process to give you all the energy you need to operate throughout the day.
3. Eases Insomnia
The consumption of milk and honey has long been used as a remedy for insomnia and difficulty in sleeping. Although they are both good at promoting sleep, taken together their effect is compounded. Consuming honey makes the brain release insulin along with the release of a compound called tryptophan. Tryptophan is eventually converted to serotonin, a neurotransmitter which increases the feelings of wellness. Serotonin is eventually converted into melatonin which is responsible for helping us sleep.
4. Promotes Bone Health
Milk is rich in calcium necessary for the bones. However, the intake of calcium by itself isn’t enough to help it assimilate into the bones. Honey and its enzymes have been found to be effective in transporting nutrients in the body. It improves the uptake of calcium by the body which makes drinking milk so much more effective. Healthy levels of calcium are good for the bones and teeth. It is especially useful for people as they age and their bones start losing density and strength.
5. Antibacterial Properties
Both milk and honey are known to have antibacterial properties on organisms such as staphylococcus. However, when taken together, their effect is stronger. Drinking warm milk mixed with honey is known to cure constipation, flatulence and intestinal disorders. They are also effective against infections of the upper respiratory tract and ease colds and cough.
6. Heals Respiratory Ailments
Drinking honey with warm milk is effective in killing and flushing out bacteria in the throat to ease respiratory tract infections. It has been used in traditional medicine to treat colds and ease cough. Therefore, honey and milk are good at preventing and treating respiratory tract infections.
7. Stress Buster
Drinking milk and honey has a soothing effect on the body as it releases serotonin in the brain which helps in relaxation. It is also known to lower cortisol levels in the body which is a stress hormone. Subsequently, it reduces the damage of the hormone on the internal organs. Honey’s natural enzymes also act as a mood lifter. Therefore the next time you’re feeling stressed, have a glass of milk.
8. Fights Stomach Infections
The drink’s antibacterial and antioxidant properties destroy harmful bacteria in the stomach to fight off infections. It restores the gut bacterial flora to normal levels and speeds up recovery.
9. Improves Concentration
The refreshing effect of a drink of cold milk and honey helps improve focus and concentration in all activities. The serotonin release helps you focus while the simple sugars in honey provide all the necessary calories for mental or physical activity.
10. Aids in Athletic Performance
Being an ergogenic acid, honey increases stamina by releasing energy slowly over a long period of time to boost athletic performance. Drinking honey and milk before and after a workout as it provides the necessary protein and carbohydrates to maintain optimal sugar levels and glycogen restoration subsequently.
11. Eases Constipation
Drinking milk and honey while experiencing constipation can help ease the symptoms naturally. One of the hot milk with honey benefits is that warm milk helps in bowel movement which helps with easing excretory movement. Honey is also loaded with enzymes that stabilise the gut to improve movement. Together they kill bacteria such as staphylococcus which can cause intestinal disorders.
Benefits of Milk with Honey for Skin & Hair
While being good for health in general, there are special benefits of honey and milk on face and hair.
1. Gives Healthy, Glowing Skin
Honey and milk in combination have several vital nutrients that are necessary to make the skin smooth and glowing. The proteins, amino acids, vitamins and minerals present to promote the growth of healthy tissue from the inside. Face packs made out of the mixture are very effective in moisturising the skin and cleansing it naturally. Milk and honey scrub made with oatmeal is excellent for skin exfoliation and rejuvenation.
2. Anti-ageing Properties
Using honey and milk on the skin regularly slows down the ageing process and reduces wrinkles on the skin. Face packs such as milk and honey works wonderfully from the outside to keep the skin healthy. Their antioxidant properties stop the free radical attack on the skin which usually causes wrinkles, blotches and degradation in general.
3. Moisturises the Skin
Moisturising is vital to maintain the softness of the skin. Without proper moisturisation, the skin becomes wrinkly and susceptible to pollutants from the outside. In the long run, it protects the skin from infections, acne, and pollution damage to keep it healthy.
4. Repairs Damaged Hair
A hair pack made out of honey and milk restores the vitality of damaged and wrinkly hair to make it smooth and shiny. The pack’s moisturising effect strengthens the hair fibres to give it a smooth texture while keeping it strong. The effect is similar to applying a conditioner, but all natural without the chemicals.
How to Make a Hair Pack Using Honey and Milk?
For smooth and shiny hair, try this hair pack:
Ingredients
Full-fat milk, 1 cup
2 tablespoons of Honey
Method
Mix the milk with honey in a cup thoroughly to make a thick paste.
Apply the mixture to your hair gently and allow it to stay for 30 minutes.
Rinse it with warm water and a mild shampoo.
How to Prepare a Honey & Milk Face Wash?
For healthy glowing skin, use this milk and honey face wash.
Ingredients
2 tablespoons of milk
1 teaspoon of honey
1 tablespoon rose water
Method
Add the ingredients into a bowl and mix until it forms a thick paste.
Apply the mixture all over the face, excluding the eyes.
Allow it to stay for 2 or 3 minutes and rinse with lukewarm water.
Apply a light moisturiser while the face is still damp.
Honey Milk Recipe
To make a healthy and tasty drink with honey and milk, follow these instructions:
Ingredients
Pasteurised milk
Honey
Method
Heat one cup of milk in a saucepan until it is warm but not boiling.
Pour it into your cup and allow it to cool until your preferred temperature.
Stir one teaspoon of honey into the milk.
Add a little more if more taste is needed.
Are There Any Side Effects of Drinking Milk With Honey?
Just like every other remedy milk and honey also have their own side effects, here are some of them:
Honey is rich in simple sugars such as fructose, glucose and sucrose along with many other types of carbohydrates. It basically is loaded with calories, therefore, can lead to weight gain. It is not recommended if you’re on a weight loss diet.
Some types of honey can also contain infectious microbes that can affect young children and those with a weak immune system.
People who have bleeding disorders should steer clear of honey. As honey can lead to elevated risks of bleeding, it’s best not to drink it with milk.
Regular consumption of milk and honey leads to the body absorbing the fats present in the drink. The fat content in both milk and honey contribute to it.
Milk and honey drink isn't suitable for people with lactose intolerance. Yoghurt is a good substitute for milk as it contains very little to no lactose.
Excess consumption of honey can lead to nerve damage due to the presence of ‘grayanotoxins; a type of nervous system poison.
Some people are allergic to the compounds present in either honey or milk or both. This can cause anywhere from mild to serious allergic reactions.
Warnings & Considerations
It’s important to not give honey to children under the age of two years due to the risk of infant botulism. Although it is a rare condition, it can be deadly to babies and the risk is not worth it. To get the best benefits out of milk and honey, it’s important to consider how much of honey it is that you’re adding to the drink. Too much of anything can have side effects, therefore stick to small amounts where you can get most of the benefits and least of the side effects.
FAQs
Is It Safe to Use Honey in Warm Milk?
Yes, it is safe to add honey to warm milk for consumption. However, honey should never be exposed to temperatures exceeding 140 degrees Celsius. In one Ayurvedic study, it was shown that heating honey produced a toxic compound called hydroxymethyl furfuraldehyde (HMF). Therefore avoid adding honey to boiling milk. It’s safe to add honey into the milk when it cools down to consumption temperature.
Milk and honey are a great source of nutrition for the body with numerous health benefits. While it’s healthy to consume the drink every day, moderation in the amount of honey added to the mix is the key to the full benefits.
Also Read:
Benefits of Drinking Honey and Lemon Water
Is It Good to Have Milk and Egg Together?
Cold Milk vs Hot Milk - Which is Better? Read more
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Getting Pregnant with One Ovary - Is it Possible?
In many instances, getting pregnant with one ovary is as easy as getting pregnant with two ovaries. Due to medical reasons, some women may have an ovary surgically removed, while others may be born with a single ovary.
If the ovary removal procedure damages a woman's fallopian tubes or leads to the removal of one or both the fallopian tubes, a woman may have difficulty in getting pregnant. In this case, you should talk to your doctor. But if the fallopian tubes are fine, then a woman with a single ovary may respond well to fertility treatments and will not have any fertility issues.
What Are the Reasons for Ovary Removal?
Unilateral oophorectomy is a surgical procedure for the removal of one ovary. Fallopian tubes are also removed in many cases. Most of the time, oophorectomy and hysterectomy are done together. The removal of both the ovaries is not necessary if at least one of the ovaries is functioning correctly. But in the following conditions, your one ovary might be removed.
1. Ovarian Cysts
Fluid-filled sacs on the surface or in an ovary is called an ovarian cyst. Many women having ovarian cysts show no symptoms, but women with large cysts or polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) might show signs other than pain. In such a case you ovary might be removed.
2. Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer begins in the ovary when the cells are mutated and multiply in an uncontrolled manner. Women with a family history of breast cancer or ovarian cancer are more susceptible to ovarian cancer. Thus ovarian cancer may make a woman consider removing her ovaries.
3. Endometriosis
During the menstrual cycle, the lining inside the uterus sheds and emerges out of the vagina, which is termed as periods, however, this does not happen if a woman has endometriosis. In endometriosis, the uterine lining or the uterus tissues grow out of the uterus. If the uterine tissue reaches the ovaries, women experience pain and thus may lead to the removal of the ovaries.
4. Abscess
In many cases, due to infection, a pocket of pus gets formed in the ovary - this is called an abscess. In such a case, a woman's ovary might have to be removed.
Effects on Fertility with One Ovary
Can a woman with one ovary get pregnant? Yes, the chances of getting pregnant with one ovary are equal to the chances of getting pregnant with two ovaries. What plays an important role in fertility is the reason for the removal of the ovary. If the ovary had to be removed due to serious conditions, then it lowers the chances of fertility.
The most significant aspect of getting pregnant with one ovary is that it should be next to a healthy fallopian tube. Fallopian tubes hang near the ovaries and are not attached to them. Their primary role is to catch the egg when it is released from the ovaries. If the egg can reach the uterus through the tube, then there is no fertility problem.
Every month the ovaries release the egg alternatively. If only one ovary is present, an egg is still normally released every month. If the ovary is not adjacent to the fallopian tube, as long as it is healthy, the egg can reach the tube. Through this tube, the egg reaches the uterus. However, this increases the chances of an ectopic pregnancy.
How to Get Pregnant with One Ovary
Ovulation takes place normally in most women with a single ovary, and these women have no other problems in getting pregnant, although some women might have some fertility issues because they ovulate less frequently. When a woman with one ovary who wishes to conceive a child has concerns about her conditions, she should talk to a doctor. Follow these steps to get pregnant.
Step 1
Visiting your doctor is the first step. Your doctor may suggest an ultrasound to check whether the single ovary is functioning properly. With the help of an ultrasound, your doctor will confirm if the ovary is releasing eggs at the right time or not. Other tests will also be done to make sure that you don’t face any other complications which might impair fertility.
Step 2
Keep a calendar handy while trying to get pregnant. Mark in your days of ovulation. Women usually ovulate between days 11 and 21 of their menstrual cycle, counting from the first day of their last menstrual cycle.
Step 3
Look for the signs of ovulation. You will experience a change in cervical mucus. During ovulation, your basal body temperature may increase. So, do not miss these signs.
Step 4
The sperm can survive in a woman’s body for several days while the eggs can survive only less than 24 hours after ovulation. So, have sexual intercourse when you are ovulating or even before that, this will increase the chances of getting pregnant.
Step 5
Yes, it will be hard for you to wait to see those blue lines on a pregnancy stick but wait a little more. Take pregnancy tests two weeks after ovulation. If the result is negative, repeat the process in the next menstrual cycle. It may take you several months to conceive, but don't get disheartened, keep trying. However, if you are unable to get pregnant within 6 to 12 months, visit a doctor again.
Tips
If you are not ovulating properly, your doctor may give you fertility drugs. Take those on time. You can also go for assisted reproductive technology in such cases.
See your OBGYN or fertility specialist about possible treatments if you have been trying to get pregnant without success for more than 6 months. Your doctor may suggest that you go for fertility treatments, but the good news is that you will get pregnant. So, don't lose hope and keep trying!
Also Read:
Do Ovary Size Matter To Get Pregnant?
Chances of Pregnancy Before, During and After Periods Read more
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Snoring In Children
Sleep is possibly the most crucial element to a child’s development. It plays a huge role in ensuring they grow up healthy and fit. In fact, according to doctors, sleep is so crucial that a lack of sleep can result in
anxiety disorders
depression
a decreased rate of learning
immune system issues
a deteriorated heartrate
Anger problems
Lack of impulse control
Frequent irritation
ADHD(Attention deficit hyperactivity disorder)
Information processing disorders
Mood instability
A weak metabolic rate
All these symptoms are discussed in detail here. A child’s sleep cycle should be maintained under any circumstance, but it is important to remember that it differs according to age. For instance, a new born may need anywhere between 12-16 hours of sleep where as a teenager may require just 7 hours of sleep. There are a number of things that can impact the quantity of sleep like increased screen time before bed or stress, some of these issues could be medical like insomnia.
A key point to remember is that the quantity of sleep alone is not a deciding factor; sleep quality is also extremely crucial. If your child sleeps for the required time but still isn’t rested this could be a sign of sleep disorders, the quality of sleep is measured by how well your child sleeps and how deep that sleep is, on average a normal adult hits a REM cycle at least 6 times in one night but a child should reach the peak of their sleep at 8 REM cycles at the minimum.
One of the most common and ignored sleep disorders is snoring, while it may sound cute on your child, snoring could be a sign of a much deeper problem.
Video: Snoring in Children - Causes and Remedies
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ow3JwoF5jBE
What Is Snoring?
Snoring is a condition that occurs when the structures of your respiratory system begin to vibrate, this condition is due to the obstructions caused to your body’s airways, the vibration leads to audible sounds reverberating through the air passages of the body, these sounds can be soft, but is often quite loud and can be heard by a person close by. Snoring is one of the leading causes of sleep deprivation and is considered a symptom of another condition called obstructive sleep apnea which is explained later in this article.
There are two kinds of snoring, habitual and symptomatic. Habitual snoring is when it is sustained over periods of time and is not due to external effects, while symptomatic snoring is due to changing external conditions such as weather, and can come and go. Although symptomatic snoring is harmless from time to time, habitual snoring is harmful. Over sustained periods of time, the condition can affect the overall health of your child and lead to serious problems. Consistent snoring should not be ignored in either adults or children.
How Common Is Snoring In Children?
Symptomatic snoring is extremely common in children, their immune systems and organs aren’t fully developed yet which can cause symptomatic snoring, usually when the weather changes or they have a cold. Habitual snoring, according to research, affects roughly 12% of people and could be a sign of anything from asthma to sleep apnea.
What Causes Snoring In Kids?
There can be numerous causes for snoring in children, some of them are:
Asthma – A condition that hampers the ability to breathe, asthma can be one of the main reasons for your child’s snoring. If your child is snoring, wheezing and has a cough it may be a sign of asthma. Please visit your doctor at the earliest as asthma, if left untreated can become fatal.
Influenza – Some types of flu cause obstructions along the airway, leading to symptomatic snoring. This will cure itself as the body begins to heal.
Deviated Septum – A deviated or damaged septum could hinder the flow of air through your child’s nose and hinder breathing. This could cause snoring.
Weight – If your weight of your child is disproportionate, it can cause sleeping disorders like snoring because the fat could obstruct airways.
Tonsillitis – Enlarged tonsils could swell up and block airways, this is possibly the most common cause of snoring in children.
Allergies – Most allergies can block the nasal airways and inflame the inside of the nostrils. Severe allergies can even cause swelling in the throat. Allergies are one of the most common causes of snoring in children.
Neuromuscular Disease – Due to the organs slowing down during sleep, nerves that control respiratory muscles can go haywire and this can cause snoring. Most neuromuscular diseases are not life threatening but some of them may become fatal.
Genetic Disorder – Some genetic disorders can be the cause of snoring, and could be passed down from generation to generation. Some of these disorders are even known to skip generations. Keeping a family history of illnesses can help narrow down the cause of snoring due to genetic disorders.
Passive Inhaling of Smoke – Smoking around your child could lead to numerous risks. Second-hand smoke can be extremely dangerous especially for children. One of the known side effects is snoring and breathing difficulties caused due to snoring.
Sleep Apnea In Children – A condition mentioned quite often here, sleep apnea is when airways block your child’s breathing which may require them to wake up and force themselves to breathe during the nights. Often, if the sleep apnea is minor, your child may subconsciously be forcing themselves to breathe and as such expending more energy, this could cause them to snore and it is also a reason for your child waking up tired. Sleep apnea is also known to cause numerous problems like depression, anxiety and if serious enough could even lead to ADHD.
Symptoms
The symptoms of snoring in children can vary greatly and depends on the age and physical development of the child, talking to a doctor is recommended if you notice your child waking up tired or fatigued as that is one of the most common symptoms for sleep apnea in children, here are a few of the symptoms for snoring that parents should look out for at different age groups.
In Young Children
Some of the most common symptoms for snoring in young children are:
Feeding Problems – The failure to feed sufficiently among breastfeeding or bottle-feeding children could be due to snoring or even sleep apnea. It is recommended that you consult a specialist for an accurate diagnosis as feeding issues could also indicate a number of other problems.
Delay or Failure in Development – One of the most common indicators of snoring is the delay or failure for a baby to hit their developmental milestones. This is because the quantity and quality of sleep plays an extremely important role in the development of the child in both a physical and mental sense. The delay in meeting these milestones due to snoring could also be a symptom of a larger underlying problem – sleep apnea.
Weight Gain – A symptom of snoring in young children, irregular weight gain could possibly be the most harmful sign. If your child puts on too much weight too fast or struggles to gain any weight, they may be caused due to unhealthy snoring and sleep apnea.
Note: The symptoms of snoring and sleep apnea in young children can vary on a case by case basis, to better understand if your child is suffering from either of these, and to get an accurate diagnosis done for your child, please visit your doctor and if recommended, have a sleep study done.
In Older Children
The following are some common symptoms of snoring in slightly older children:
Attention Issues – Due to the lack of enough sleep or the deteriorated quality of sleep, your child could have trouble focusing or paying attention. This is a common sign of sleep apnoea and snoring.
Hyperactivity – A child who has inferior quality of sleep or lack of enough sleep can try to keep themselves present and awake by forcing themselves to become hyperactive. The lack of sleep also releases a chemical imbalance that works in cohesion with adrenaline to keep your child too active and then burn them out. This could be a sign of snoring.
Aggression – The lack of sleep can exhaust your child, and fatigue is commonly a reason for aggression. If your child is aggressive or easily irritated, this could be a sign of sleep deprivation and the root cause could be snoring.
Personality Changes – Sleep deprivation can cause personality changes, if your child’s personality begins to change overnight, this could be due to overlooked sleep issues like snoring and sleep apnea.
Diagnosis of Snoring in Kids
Doctors can diagnose most sleep-based disabilities and disorders by performing a sleep test, this test involves placing ECG like nodes on your child’s body while they sleep and connecting them to a computer, this will record their sleep patterns, REM cycles and how often they wake up during the night and how this impacts their sleep cycle.
Another test done to evaluate your child’s lungs and airways is known as a pulmonary function test, this involves your child placing a pipe in their mouth, breathing in through their nose and out through their mouth, this test measures the overall pulmonary strength or lung strength and evaluates if there is any congestion in their airway.
Risks and Complications of Childhood Snoring
There are various possibly dangerous issues that could affect your child due to their snoring. Some of these risks could lead to the need for long and protracted medical care. Here are a few risks of snoring:
Sleep Apnea – Sleep apnea could be a cause for snoring but it could also be caused because of it, this condition can make breathing very difficult at night and force your child to wake up numerous times at night in gasps, if the snoring is very heavy and your child wakes up in the night on a consistent basis it may mean that your child is developing sleep apnea.
Nightmares – Snoring decreases your child’s oxygen saturation which could cause a portion of their brain to experience a chemical imbalance that leads to nightmares. Nightmares for extended periods of time could hurt your child psychologically for years to come.
Fatigue – Snoring indicates your child needing to use excess energy to breathe, this energy loss during their sleep could exhaust them long term and throughout the day.
Impaired Recovery – If your child’s snoring is bad, the body doesn’t get the rest it needs to recuperate, this could result in extended time spans for recovery from illnesses and injuries.
Developmental Disorders – The lack of oxygen during sleep is extremely dangerous as sleep is a key portion of the developmental cycle for your child, this means they cannot develop normally due to the lack of oxygen which could then harm their overall life both short and long term, developmental disorders could both be physical and mental.
Cardiovascular Health – The heart slows down when you sleep, combine that with good oxygen saturation during sleep and this ensures that it recovers and rectifies any issues the organ may have accumulated throughout the day, sleep is crucial for your heart’s health, snoring impairs sleep and can lead to cardiovascular abnormalities long term.
Organ Health – Much like the heart all your organs except your liver and kidneys recover when you sleep, snoring hinders that recovery due to the extra energy spent on breathing, when you snore you activate all your organs in order to force a breath, this delays the recovery time for each organ, the oxygen saturation being lower when snoring also plays a key role in organ deterioration.
Other risks could be case specific for your child, talk to a paediatric specialist for further information on how your child’s lack of sleep due to snoring could be causing conditions and illnesses specific to them.
Is Your Child's Snoring Normal or Sleeping Disorder?
It is important to distinguish that not all snoring is considered dangerous or a sleep disorder, the systematic snoring of a child is considered normal due to the weakened immune system and under-developed organs, this kind of snoring only occurs when there is an external change such as the weather or your child having an illness, this should dissipate quickly, soft snoring is also not considered too dangerous for your child though it is still recommended that you see a doctor.
To diagnose your child’s snoring as a sleep disorder, the snoring must be loud, progressively louder or sustained over a continuous period of time. It should be un-impacted by external sources or other illnesses that are known to block airways.
The best way to diagnose your child’s snoring is to see a specialist and have them do a physical and run some tests. It is recommended that your child has a sleep test done by the time they turn 10.
Signs your Child's Snoring is a Problem
If your child encounters any of the risks mentioned above or any of the following, it could indicate that their snoring is a problem.
They wake up tired
They cannot wake up
Their energy levels are down when they are awake and throughout the day
They are scared to go to sleep
They wet the bed
They cannot perform chores they used to before
They cannot pay attention to events around them
They have bags under their eyes despite sleeping for a sufficient amount of time
They have rapid mood swings
It is recommended that you talk to your child’s specialist for more information on identifying if your child has a problem due to their snoring.
Treatments For Kids Snoring
Snoring isn’t always treatable as a condition, there are, however, things you can do to help alleviate or treat snoring under controlled situations:
Sleep Mask – Commonly used to treat sleep apnoea, this mask allows your child to breathe as it regulates the oxygen and eases ventilation trouble.
Balms – Using balms like Vicks can help ease nasal congestion for children who have colds and fevers, this can ease snoring.
Septum Surgery – This is a procedure to correct a deviated septum to clear the nasal airway passages, during the surgery they may clear your child’s sinuses if they are infected, this should help cure snoring if caused by a deviated septum.
Inhalers – If there is an issue with your lungs like asthma, bronchitis or other breathing disorders, your doctors may prescribe inhalers, these could be a combination of salbutamol and anabolic steroids to clear the lung congestions. Inhalers are the most common way to treat bronchial and pulmonary disorders, this can help manage snoring if caused by the mentioned conditions.
It is important to remember that most child snoring solutions can be case specific, talking to a doctor and getting an accurate diagnosis and treatment plan is recommended, do not medicate or diagnose your child yourself.
Home Remedies
Some conditions that cause snoring can be treated at home without medication. Here are a few ways to treat your child’s snoring while avoiding medication:
Steam – By either boiling hot water or using a steam machine, have your child take nasal steams before bed and after waking up, this can help clear their nasal passages. Adding essential oils like eucalyptus in the water can also have a soothing effect.
Drinking Hot Water – Throat congestions can cause snoring; consuming hot water regularly can help dissolve the mucus in your child’s body which can help the snoring.
Heat Packs – During winter, ensure your children are dressed well and tucked in to their beds, adding a heat pack on their chest and back can also help dissolve some congestive mucus and sooth their body. This is also believed to help relax their chest muscles which can combat the snoring to some extent.
Although there are numerous home remedies, it is recommended that you consult a physician before implementing any of them. Your doctor can examine your child and give you home remedies that may work better for your child specifically.
Tips For Preventing Snoring
Here are a few tips that may help you prevent your child’s snoring:
Let them sleep on their side, sleeping on the back is known to aggravate snoring, if they already snore, sleeping on their side may help them breathe in a more efficient manner.
Ensure they maintain their recommended body weight.
Regulate their diet
Ensure they hydrate sufficiently
Take all prescribed medication to its full term
Ensure they maintain positive airway pressure
Ensure they exercise or play a sport
Encourage them to swim. Swimming helps improve and regulate the pulmonary functions
Dress according to the weather
Maintain good hygiene
For more tips on how to prevent snoring, talk to your primary healthcare practitioner.
Sleep plays a part in regulating the metabolism and immune system, this also controls the health of your organs. Ensuring your child gets good quality sleep for a good amount of time is essential for their well-being, it is recommended that you talk to a sleep specialist and a pediatrician for an accurate diagnosis and an effective treatment plan.
If your child has sleep apnea, it is advised that you talk to your doctor before using any products that may play a part in their recovery, do not use sleep apnea masks or humidifiers without talking to your physician first.
Do not self-medicate or share your or your child’s medicines with anyone else. Treating sleeping disorders early is essential to ensure a healthy and high-quality life for your child, if the quality of sleep is bad it could lead to numerous issues like anxiety, depression, organ failure or even heart attacks later in life.
Although the issues may seem extreme, sleep deprivation can become extremely dangerous if left untreated for extended periods of time or if the wrong type of treatment is administered, this is why we recommend a specialist take the lead on treatment plans and procedures.
Be sure to ask the doctors questions and clear any doubts you may have, it is extremely important that you understand the cause and the treatment before implementing any changes in your child’s or your life.
Sleep apnea can manifest in anyone, child or adult. If you suspect this condition, talk to a doctor and have a sleep study done to ensure an accurate diagnosis.
Also read: Night Terrors In Toddlers & Children
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