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Preterm Labour and Birth - Reasons, Signs & Treatment
Throughout the entire cycle of pregnancy, a baby proceeds through multiple stages of growths, right up to the very final weeks of the due date. However, there might be scenarios that labour is induced and the baby is born before it has had a chance to grow fully.
What is Premature Birth?
If a baby is born before it completes the requisite 37 weeks of pregnancy, such a birth is generally termed as a premature birth.
If a baby is born around the 35th week of pregnancy, he generally does not have any serious issues. A small percentage of such babies may develop some respiratory related difficulties.
If a baby is born earlier than the 35th week but has completed 28 weeks of pregnancy, he still has its internal organs struggling to cope with the demands of a real life. He is generally very weak and find extreme difficulty in suckling milk or breathing properly.
But if a baby is born before 28 weeks of pregnancy are completed, the chances of it surviving are very low. Even the ones that do manage to survive develop complications and disabilities that can be debilitating ahead in life.
How Common is it?
Out of 100 babies that are born in India, nearly 13 babies are born prematurely. The number of premature births here constitutes for about a quarter of premature births taking place in the entire world.
What Causes Premature Childbirth?
The reasons for premature birth range from medical factors to social and lifestyle choices and cannot be conclusively pinpointed on a specific factor as such.
The presence of twins in the uterus can slightly raise chances of a premature birth.
A weak cervix is also known to cause preterm labour.
If there is a bacterial infection inside the mother’s vagina, it could be a trigger to induce premature birth.
If the mother bleeds heavily during pregnancy, the body could react to it by inducing premature birth.
Certain abnormalities of the uterus could be a possible reason as well.
A history of previous abortions is a known reason for having a premature birth later.
If the mother has had miscarriages previously in early stages of pregnancy, they could be indicative of a premature birth for the current one.
The early breaking of the water is a strong sign as well.
If the mother has grown up in a violent family or has faced domestic violence, the chances of premature birth are slightly higher.
Any woman with a history of smoking and drug abuse is known to face preterm labour.
If the mother’s job involves long and arduous physical work, even during pregnancy, then the risk of premature delivery increase threefold.
Being underweight or overweight can further increase the risk of complications, including preterm labour.
Signs and Symptoms Premature Delivery
Preterm delivery symptoms can be recognised by observing the baby closely for specific signs.
The baby has a small sized body, but the head is extremely large and out of proportion.
The features of the baby can be instantly recognized. This is because of a lack of fat for the baby’s growth, leading to the development of sharp facial features.
The baby’s body is covered with a lot of fine hair.
Since the baby’s body lacks the necessary amount of fat of a full growth cycle, its body temperature would be comparatively lower, especially right after the birth.
The baby would struggle to breathe or seem to perpetually be in distress withdrawing in required amounts of air.
The reflexes that a baby requires being able to suck for food and swallow it would be weak or missing. This further leads to difficulties in feeding the baby.
Diagnosis of Premature Birth
In most cases, doctors prefer to know the entire history of your current pregnancy as well as any previous ones. Certain tests such as urine tests, vaginal swabs, blood tests, amniotic tests, might be conducted to check various biological factors of the pregnancy.
The cervix might be examined by the doctor to check if it has reduced and started opening. Once labour has begun, it cannot be stopped either by medical professionals or by forcing yourself to rest. In case you have not completed 34 weeks of your pregnancy, a drug to delay your delivery temporarily might be administered.
A dose of steroids would have to be given to allow the baby’s lungs to mature properly. Since the lungs are not fully developed until 36 weeks of the pregnancy are complete, premature delivery is bound to cause breathing problems for the infant. Steroids help them grow in a shorter duration of time.
Preterm Delivery Complications
Some complications that may arise during preterm delivery are,
1. Short-Term Complications
The weak respiratory system of the baby will result in breathing issues. If the lungs are missing the essential substance for expansion and contraction, termed as a surfactant, the baby might experience extreme respiratory distress. They may also develop lung disorders or have long pauses between their breaths, which is termed as apnea.
Premature babies may also have a heart defect when they are born. Certain defects such as PDA, where an opening that exists between the aorta and the pulmonary artery, does not close off on its own, other untreated defects can lead to heart failure in certain cases. Babies may have low blood pressure leading to injection of IV fluids, medicines, or carrying out blood transfusions.
If a baby is born very prematurely, he carries an extremely high risk of internal brain haemorrhage. Most of them are mild and do not have a large impact but the ones with a lot of internal bleeding might suffer from permanent brain injuries.
Premature babies lack the fat that is necessary to generate energy and maintain the body heat. Hence, they have trouble maintaining the right body temperature which can sometimes dip too low and cause hypothermia. This further leads to breathing problems and a drop in blood sugar levels. Sometimes, the infants use up all energy just to maintain the body temperature and fail to leave anything for other aspects of their growth. In such cases, an incubator is used for these babies to help them maintain proper body heat levels.
With immature gastric systems, premature babies face the risks of injuring cell linings in the bowels which can be a problem when they start feeding. Breastmilk is known to reduce chances of it.
Most premature newborns suffer from anaemia or jaundice since they lack a good amount of red blood cells. Also, the skin and eyes of the baby might be yellow coloured due to excess bilirubin in the blood.
Premature babies may suffer from hypoglycaemia due to improper metabolism. As compared to fully grown babies, premature babies do not have large enough stores of glucose within them. They also struggle with converting stored glucose to active glucose that is necessary for metabolic activities.
A major risk for premature babies is a heightened risk of infection, given that they have weak immunity. Any infection can instantly spread throughout the body through their bloodstream.
2. Long-Term Complications
When the blood flow to the infant’s brain is not enough, the brain fails to develop as needed which results in a disorder called as cerebral palsy. This affects the bodily movements, muscle mass, and the general posture. It could also be a result of an infection or an injury to the brain.
Most premature babies suffer from learning impairments causing them to not proceed at the pace of kids their age.
Certain premature kids are known to have a visual disease called as retinopathy. This is where blood vessels grow in the light-sensitive area behind the retina in humongous quantities. These, over time, may scar the retina and detach it. If left untreated, this can cause full vision impairment, leading to blindness.
Nearly all premature babies undergo a hearing test to check for hearing loss since that is one of the most common problems premature births have to face.
Late tooth emergence, discolouration of teeth, and misaligned teeth are issues that premature babies are at a higher risk of.
Beyond physical, premature babies can have certain psychological problems that can manifest later during their growth.
Most children who were born prematurely, constantly fall ill with infections, suffer from asthma, primarily due to weak immunity. Certain infants may also have a risk of SIDS, termed as sudden infant death syndrome, requiring immediate hospital care.
Treatment for Premature Birth
Some treatment options for premature birth are,
1. Supportive Care
An incubator will ensure that your baby is able to maintain a healthy body temperature throughout.
Vital signs of your baby would be monitored using various sensors attached to it. In case of breathing issues, a ventilator would be used for your baby.
Fluids and feeding might be conducted via an intravenous tube. Breastmilk would also be supplied externally through the tube until it is strong enough to start sucking it naturally.
Bodily fluid balance and minerals will be maintained and monitored by replenishing them intravenously.
If your baby is suffering from jaundice, he would be placed under special bilirubin lights. This helps break down the excess bilirubin in your baby’s blood. Your baby might wear an eye mask to sleep under those lights.
If multiple blood tests are being conducted or your baby has circulation issues, blood transfusions might be undertaken.
2. Medications
Surfactant might be administered to allow the lungs to function normally.
Aerosolized mist and IV medications would be used to strengthen the baby’s heart rate.
If ill and infected, antibiotics will be administered to the infant.
Diuretics might be utilized as well to maintain a good urine output.
The eye might be injected with medication to prevent retinopathy from occurring.
Certain medications to help heart defects from healing might be administered, too.
3. Surgery
Doctors might advise you to undertake surgery for your baby to treat certain complications. It is necessary to understand the risks associated with each and the necessity of each procedure as well.
4. How to Take Care of Your Baby at Home
Once your baby is breathing fine, has a good and stable body temperature, can breastfeed, has shown weight gain, and is healthy, doctors might allow you to take your child home. Certain precautions related to the living arrangements at home, the baby’s siblings if any, other relatives and additional pediatric care might be suggested by the nursing professionals.
How Can You Reduce Risk of Premature Childbirth?
As to how to prevent premature birth from taking place, even though the exact causes are unknown, certain precautions can help reduce those chances.
The presence of a short cervix or a history of premature delivery might require the use of progesterone supplements to reduce the risk of them happening again.
A surgical procedure, termed as a cervical cerclage, might be undertaken, where the cervix is closed to provide extra support to the uterus.
Premature Baby at Different Gestational Ages
For Boys
Gestational age
Weight
Length
Head circumference
40 weeks
7 lbs., 15 oz.
(3.6 kg)
20 in. (51 cm)
13.8 in. (35 cm)
35 weeks
5 lbs., 8 oz.
(2.5 kg)
18.1 in. (46 cm)
12.6 in. (32 cm)
32 weeks
3 lbs., 15.5 oz.
(1.8 kg)
16.5 in. (42 cm)
11.6 in. (29.5 cm)
28 weeks
2 lbs., 6.8 oz.
(1.1 kg)
14.4 in. (36.5 cm)
10.2 in. (26 cm)
24 weeks
1 lb., 6.9 oz.
(0.65 kg)
12.2 in. (31 cm)
8.7 in. (22 cm)
For Girls
Gestational age
Weight
Length
Head circumference
40 weeks
7 lbs., 7.9 oz.
(3.4 kg)
20 in. (51 cm)
13.8 in. (35 cm)
35 weeks
5 lbs., 4.7 oz.
(2.4 kg)
17.7 in. (45 cm)
12.4 in. (31.5 cm)
32 weeks
3 lbs., 12 oz.
(1.7 kg)
16.5 in. (42 cm)
11.4 in. (29 cm)
28 weeks
2 lbs., 3.3 oz.
(1.0 kg)
14.1 in. (36 cm)
9.8 in. (25 cm)
24 weeks
1 lb., 5.2 oz.
(0.60 kg)
12.6 in. (32 cm)
8.3 in. (21 cm)
Source: https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/premature-birth/symptoms-causes/syc-20376730Source
Premature birth is unavoidable if it is bound to happen. However, with certain precautionary measures, and being prepared to handle any unforeseen consequences, one can ensure a healthy delivery of the baby and help the child lead a normal life no matter what.
Also read: Helping Your Premature Baby Gain Weight Read more
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Postpartum Perineal Pain – Cause and Relief
You might think that labour and delivery are the most painful part of childbirth. But you may experience considerable pain even after the birthing experience. A baby can weigh around 6 to 8 pounds (2.5 - 3.5kgs) and might find it difficult in passing through a narrow opening, leading to vaginal tears or some form of discomfort in the perineal area.
What Is Postpartum Perineal Pain?
The perineum lies between the vagina and the anus, and it undergoes a lot of stretching and immense pressure during delivery. The intensity of pain coupled with the recovery time varies on the method of delivery. If you had a vaginal birth without any tears (episiotomy), discomfort in your perineal region might last for about 3-5 weeks. The pain could last for as long as 6 weeks if you underwent an episiotomy. Some perineal discomfort may be felt even after a C-section delivery, depending on how long you pushed.
To relive vaginal pain after birth, you can resort to the following measures.
Ensure the area is clean: You can spray warm water with the help of a squirt bottle over the painful area.
Apply a cold pack: Crushed ice with an inbuilt cold pack can be applied on the area to reduce the amount of swelling. It should be applied for a couple of hours, after 24 hours of the delivery.
Why Does The Perineum Become So Sore After Delivery?
In a vaginal birth, compression on the perineum is immense because it needs to be stretched for the head of the baby to be accommodated. During the process of birth, the perineum is prone to wear or tear, or your doctor may suggest an incision, creating a wider opening for your baby’s head. This procedure is termed as an episiotomy, and you will encounter immense soreness after birth if you are required to go through one.
As discussed earlier, if the birth is accomplished without a tear or episiotomy, chances are there that the perineum could be tender or swollen afterwards. It may heal in a week, or it could take a couple of more days to get back to normal. The healing period is longer if you went through an episiotomy.
How Long Does it Take to Heal Perineal Pain?
The process of healing varies from one woman to another. The deeper the cut, the longer the recovery procedure is expected to be. A tear of first-degree means more skin is involved than muscles, and you may not even need stitches. First-degree tears are known to cause a minimum amount of discomfort, as they tend to heal quickly.
When it is a second-degree tear, then both muscle and skin are involved. This requires stitches, and would need a couple of weeks to heal. During this time, the stitches dry out, and some women experience pain for a few days, whereas for others it may stretch to months as well.
If it’s a third or fourth-degree laceration, deeper sutures are required, and the pain could stretch to more than a month. Any individual could experience these tears, but chances will increase if you have had an episiotomy. After a few days of birth, you are likely to experience difficulty in bowel movements or urinating. There could be chances of an increase in passing motion and gas, which could prevail for several months.
How to Deal With The Pain And Heal The Area?
Your doctor or healthcare service provider is going to provide you with detailed inputs on how to take care of yourself. The onus of treatment mechanisms is centered around postpartum perineal pain relief.
Immediately after the birth of the baby, an ice pack needs to be applied with a smooth covering over the perineum. That is a primary requirement, and your nurse will provide you with one. This is going to reduce the discomfort along with swelling. Over a period of the next 12 days, apply a single ice pack each day.
Acetaminophen or Ibuprofen can reduce the pain. If you are breastfeeding, it is better to avoid aspirin. When you experience an unexpected tear, a pain medication prescription may be advocated.
Change the sanitary pad frequently during the day.
Do not sit for long hours at a single place till the perineum is sore.
A squirt bottle is generally provided by your hospital whereby you can spray warm-hot water on your perineum. This water has a soothing impact, and it does not burn much once contact is established with your skin.
The wound should be exposed to air as much as possible.
You can plan for warm soaks in the bathtub or a sit-in bath after 24 hours have passed since delivery. In this form of bath, a shallow basin is filled with hot water and put over your toilet seat. The utility of it is that you can soak your perineal area several times a day without having to get into a tub full of water and undress each time. Most hospitals have this form of bath in their repertoire, and if you desire, you can take it home as well. It is also available at most drug stores.
Try to take things easy and do not indulge in unnecessary chores. All your energy should be directed on taking care of the baby and speeding up your recovery.
If the tear happens to be of higher magnitude, ensure that your fluid intake is on the higher side and enough roughage is part of your diet so that you do not suffer from constipation.
Avoid any of rectal treatments along with enemas (fluid injected for bowel cleansing or to relieve constipation).
If you feel that the pain is not reducing within a few weeks, then it is better to seek professional help.
When to Seek Doctor’s Help?
Perineal pain after delivery is an inevitable part of the childbirth process, and as your hormone levels will be fluctuating, you might feel highly emotional during this time. An emotional counselor would be of immense help now. As a golden rule, if you feel that things are not on the right track as far as you and the baby are concerned, immediately seek the expert advice of a doctor.
Seek the doctor’s help if you encounter the following symptoms:
Any form of vaginal discharge with a strong odour
Dizziness or fainting
Difficulty in urinating or pain during the process
Vomiting at regular intervals
Breasts become sore and are too soft or red to touch
Any form of pain in your legs with swelling or redness
Your doctor is the right person to figure out the underlying causes of the above-mentioned symptoms. It is possible that you could have an infection.
Conclusion:
Childbirth can be a painful process. There might be chances of developing anal fissures and haemorrhoids while pushing the baby out. This can be highly uncomfortable and at times extremely painful. But with good care, hygiene and time, perineal pain can heal quickly. Read more
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Your Baby This Week : 2 Month Week 3 Old
Now is a great time to introduce your baby to sitters or other people who may be looking after him later on. Have a potential caregiver to come over and spend some time with you and your baby. Later on, he may be consumed by stranger anxiety, making a simple introduction seem impossible. You’ll notice that the jerky arm and leg movements of newborn days have given way to smoother more circular motions especially when he’s watching the world go by. Put a blanket on the floor and let him stretch as he pleases. These movements can help your baby strengthen and tone her developing muscles
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70 Cute Nicknames for Penelope
It is essential not to fall prey to trendy options or feel pressured while living up to the choice of family naming tradition while choosing a name for your little one. You may end up regretting your decision. You can easily mold a flexible and beautiful name like Penelope into smaller nicknames to fit the feel. This old-school gem is very much in fashion even to this day to make her presence known in the popularity charts. Common nicknames for Penelope can be creatively conceived to invite praise and flatter your little angel’s personality.
Meaning and Origin of Penelope
Penelope is a feminine name that dates back to the 16th century originating in Homer’s epic poem “The Odyssey.” Considering the fame of this Greek mythology, Penelope has been used in many countries worldwide. Either derived from the Greek pÄ“nÄ,” meaning “thread of a bobbin,” or penelops, a type of duck, Penelope has two possible origins that give two meanings to the name. As per the mythological story, Penelope was the wife of Odysseus in Homer’s Odyssey, who was taken care of by a duck when she was an infant. Later, she made countless suitors wait by pretending to weave a garment while her husband, King of Ithaca, wandered at sea after completing the Trojan War. Penelope vows not to remarry by cleverly weaving a burial shroud for Odysseus’ dying father. She never intends on completing this task to keep her commitment to her husband. Thus Penelope translates to ‘weaver’ and ‘worker of the loom’ in Greek. Her name has thus become synonymous with loyalty, making it a perfect choice for any resilient little girl.
Nicknames for Penelope
Cheesy or crazy, nicknames can highlight the unique personality traits of your child that only a parent knows best. Cute nicknames for Penelope that sound hilarious are intended for unadulterated fun, not for bullying, name-calling, or targeting a child’s target’s self-esteem, sense of self-worth, and self-confidence. Here are some adorable nicknames for the name Penelope that might help to strengthen the relationship and positively shape a child’s character.
Penny
Nellie
Pen
PJ
Nel
Penelapie
P-pie
Pippa
Perper
Nellopie
Pip
Pilliopino
PenPen
Elle
Ellie
Lopi
LollyPoppy
Elope
Nell
Nelle
Nels
Pena
Penn
Penney
Penay
Penae
Pipsy
Pipa
Peanut
Pippy
Poppy
Popi
Popaki
P.Lopes
Lola
Polly
Posy
Pixie
Persephone
Phoebe
Calliope
Posey
Ploppy
Ella
Lolly
Loopie
Pee-Pee
P-Bean
Oppy
Penge
Nellpipi
Pennylope
Lady P
Peeps
Lollipop
Perpy
PercyPhone
Pelly
Peppa
Pepsi
Pandora
Peone
Punky
Napoli Pizza
Pe
Pie
Lollie
Lope
Poe
Pen-Lo
Popularity of the Name Penelope
Penelope broke into the top 1,000 names in the United States in 1920. After gracing the 941st spot in 2001, it slowly made its way into the top 200 names in 2011, eventually making a giant leap in 2013 when its popularity index reached number 56. Since then, Penelope has made considerable progress by climbing up to the charts to occupy the 26th spot among the most popular girls’ names in 2018. According to Social Security Administration data, the most popular year for Penelope was in 2019, when it stood at No. 22, followed by the rank at No.25 as of 2020. This sudden boost in the popularity of this classic name starting with P can be linked to the birth of Penelope Disick in 2012, daughter of reality star Kourtney Kardashian or daughters of actresses Tina Fey and Anna Chlumsky, and musician Taylor Hanson of the band Hanson. The glamorous image of the Spanish actress Penelope Cruz may have even boosted the popularity of this name in recent years. This name has also been used in the Harry Potter series.
Famous Celebrities With the Name Penelope
The world’s highest-paid celebrities who reach dizzying heights of success are hopeful contenders for everlasting fame. Many iconic Penelopes have worked hard to remain in the limelight for years together and bask in the glory of their stardom. Here are some notable celebrities with the name Penelope who may cast a spell of wonder on the minds of parents looking for a name that’ll make their child turn heads wherever they go:
Name
Who She Is
Penelope Cruz
Spanish Actress
Penelope Ann Miller
American Film Actress
Penelope Spheeris
American Director
Penelope Wilton
English Actress
Penelope Fitzgerald
English Novelist
Penelope Margaret Lively
Egyptian British Novelist
Penelope Anne Constance
English Actress
Penelope Houston
American Singer
Penelope Jane Leech
English Child Psychologist
Penelope Mitchell
Australian Actress
Variations of Penelope
Variations of Penelope have gained recognition in other languages and cultures around the globe. Parents who appreciate the unusual alternative forms of the name might consider new choices from ever-more-diverse origins entering the global lexicon every day.
Name
Origin of Variation
Pelcia
Polish
Penelopa
Polish
Penelope
Spanish
Pinelopi
Greek
Pipitsa
Greek
Popi
Greek
Lopa
Polish
A name like Penelope can convey the cultural background, set expectations of a person’s socioeconomic status, honor a relative or prestigious figure, recall traditional values, or emphasize individuality and modernity. Unique nicknames for Penelope can be minimalistic, sweet, or trendy that indicate the defining aspects of a child’s identity and uphold the profound meaning of the name. So, choose a nickname for Penelope that suits her personality with the help of the suggestions provided here! Read more
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Spermicide For Birth Control
You must have heard about various birth control methods. Let’s explore one of the options, which is considered to be effective in preventing unwanted pregnancies. Although there are many options for birth control, a spermicide is the easiest of all. It is a birth control method that does not involve continuous usage.
What Is Spermicide?
A spermicide is a birth control method that reduces the sperm movement during intercourse, thus reducing the chances of conceiving. It usually comes in the form of gel, suppositories, foam or films.It is sold over the counter and can be used along with other birth control pills. A spermicide is an effective form of birth control that has helped many couples.
Types of Spermicide
Spermicides come in various forms, such as:
Spermicidal foam
Contraceptive film
Spermicidal jelly
Contraceptive gels, foams or jelly
Spermicidal creams and gels
Contraceptive sponge
How Does it Work?
Spermicide is a chemical that is used to kill sperms before their reach the cervix. It is used before having sex to prevent pregnancies. It works in two ways:
Blocks the opening of the uterus (cervix), thereby preventing any sperm from fertilizing the egg.
Makes the sperm immobile (kills it), so that it doesn’t reach the egg.
Effectiveness of Spermicide
Spermicide is like most of the other contraceptive methods. It is safe and proven, but it does not provide 100 percent protection against pregnancy. They have to be used correctly, and they are active for a given period. Even if all the steps are followed with care, there are 28 in every 100 women who have conceived. Spermicide effectiveness rate is 75% when used without any other contraception. Nevertheless, it is better than taking no birth control at all, moreover, women can use spermicides instead of OCP (Oral contraceptive pills) which have side effects.
How to Make Spermicide More Effective?
It is effective to use a spermicide along with other contraceptive methods such as pills or condoms. If you are using a spermicide, it is best that it is used just 10 minutes before the intercourse. Sometimes, it may take longer to be effective. Also, it is advised not to rely on its effectiveness after an hour of insertion as it might lose its effectiveness after an hour. To be 100% sure of any preventive method, it is better than the male partner pulls out before he can ejaculate. This ensures that the sperm does not enter the vagina at all.
Can Spermicide Prevent STDs?
Spermicide is like any other birth control method. It is not sure shot protection when it comes to STDs. In fact, it can increase your chances of contracting an infection or STD when used very frequently. The chemical in the spermicide can irritate your vagina or your partner’s penis, making it more vulnerable to germs to enter your body. If it is used along with condoms, then it is very effective in preventing STDs.
How to Use It?
Using a spermicide is fairly easy. The spermicide you buy will have a small instruction leaflet on it. Follow those instructions carefully.
Find a comfortable position or a place to stand or lie down. Insert the film or gel or sponge or suppositories into your vagina slowly. It is similar to using a tampon. Read the instruction to find out how long it will be effective for and also how long does it take to become effective. Some spermicides take 10-5 minutes to get into action and most of them last only for 1 hour. If you need to have sex for more than an hour or multiple times, then you need to use extra spermicides, but this will cause irritation and expose you to possible STDs. Hence, check the package instructions before buying or using any spermicides.
Are Spermicides a Reversible Method of Birth Control?
Spermicides are not a permanent solution for birth control. It is just a quick and convenient method. The effect of a spermicide is very limited (a few hours). Hence, it is completely reversible.
Can You Use it With Condoms?
Yes, it is very effective when you use it with condoms. Using both spermicide and condoms can help prevent STDs, too.
Where Can You Buy Spermicide and How Much Does it Cost?
Spermicide is sold over the counter, online and at pharmacies. They are also sold at grocery stores, clinics, supermarkets and some health centres. You do not need a prescription, and there is no age restriction for purchasing a spermicide.
The cost of a spermicide varies based on its brand and type. They are also available for free in some health centres.
Benefits of Spermicide
Following are some benefits of spermicides:
It Does Not Have Any Hormones
A spermicide is a good option for people who cannot take hormonal medicines as some oral contraceptive pills have hormonal medicines. They are also used when one does not want to take internal medications.
It is Cost Effective And Convenient
Spermicides are very cheap, and some are available for free. It is also convenient as they do not need a doctor’s prescription. They also come in easy-to-carry packages and are sold in grocery stores in your neighbourhood.
Spermicides Do Not Interrupt The Sexual Activity
It can be used 15 minutes before you start your sexual activity so there is no need for you to pause before intercourse to use birth control. They also last close to an hour, so, you can enjoy your moments without interruptions.
Does Not Interfere With Other Medications
As spermicides are non-hormonal, they do not interfere with any other medicines you take.
Disadvantages of Spermicides
The disadvantages are as follows;
Spermicides Can Be Messy
Some forms of spermicides are very messy like the gels, foams and suppositories as they ooze out of the vagina. The film is better as it is not too messy.
Spermicide Does Not Protect From STDs
Spermicides are not preventive options when it comes to STDs. In fact, they are prone to cause STDs when overused. Overuse of spermicides causes damage to the soft genital tissues, making them more vulnerable to STDs and infections.
You Have to Use It Wisely
Spermicides have a time frame for working. If you have had intercourse before it is active or after it is inactive then you might be in trouble. Even multiple or frequent usage cause problems. You need to use it every time you have sex, and it cannot be reused. Hence, you need to be wise to use it appropriately.
Spermicides Have Side Effects
Nonoxynol-9, an ingredient in spermicides irritates and increase the risk of HIV and STDs. Spermicide side effects in some people can be in the form of irritation when using it. If you feel sore or irritation in your vagina or your partner’s penis then you are allergic to that spermicide. You can try other brands or forms in that case.
Can You Use Spermicide While Breastfeeding?
It is quite safe to use spermicides while breastfeeding as they do not contain any hormonal components.
What If You Forgot Using Spermicide or You Misused it?
It might be a cause for concern if you use it wrongly. It is better if you have birth control pills handy, using these pills as early as possible help prevent unwanted pregnancies.
Who Should Avoid Spermicides?
Avoid spermicides if you have the following:
You or your partner shows an allergic reaction to the spermicides, which might be in the form of gels, creams or spermicide pill form.
If you have any vaginal abnormalities such as double cervix or vaginal septum, it might be difficult to fix the spermicide.
If you are not able to fix it comfortably
If you are prone to HIV or STDs, it might increase the risk of these infections.
Using spermicides is one of the easiest contraceptive methods. If it is used correctly and timely, it can be very effective, but you should have a full understanding of the risk and benefits involved in choosing to use a spermicide.
Also Read: The Morning After the Pill - All Your Questions Answered Read more
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RICER: First-Aid Technique for Toddler Injuries
Sprains, strains and fractures are common injuries that most active toddlers face, once in a while. They usually happen when young kids fall or bump into something, or while playing and doing other physical activities. That is why parents should be aware of the first aid technique called RICER (Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation, Referral) to offer immediate aid to the child.
When a toddler gets injured, there are chances of internal bleeding or swelling in the affected area. If the injury swells up too much, it can prove to be harmful. In such situations, RICER needs to be used within 48 hours of the mishap, whether it is a sprain, strain or a fracture. It can limit the swelling and make the kid recover quickly.
Overcoming The Fear of Injuries in Toddlers
Parents must understand that the fear of sprains, strains and fractures should not make them stop their children from playing. These injuries are a normal part of the growing up process. Trying to prevent your child from being active, would simply make him lethargic and would hinder his holistic growth and development.
As parents, you must provide your child with the basic needs of exercise and physical activities. However, as a precautionary measure, you must learn the basic steps of first-aid to lessen the toddler’s pain, in case of an emergency. RICER is one such technique, that can help reduce the pain and associated suffering immediately after an injury.
What is RICER?
RICER stands for Rest, Ice, Compression, Elevation, and Referral and is an effective first-aid practice to manage pain in toddlers after an injury. Here is how it works:
1. Rest
If a toddler gets injured, the first step is to stop him from taking part in any further painful activities. If the affected body part is stressed, moved or used excessively, it can increase the bleeding or swelling. It can also slow down the healing process, or make the condition worse. Let the kid take adequate rest for at least 24 to 72 hours. If you suspect a fracture, support the arm in a sling or use crutches for foot injury.
2. Ice
After your child is laid down in the resting position, bring an ice-pack and apply it gently on the affected area. This will slowly reduce the swelling, and it will also soothe the pain. Apply the ice-pack for 15 minutes at every 2 hours throughout the day. The following day, apply ice every 15 minutes at an interval of 4 hours. Do not apply the ice directly on the affected body part, make sure to cover it in a cloth.
3. Compression
Bandage the injured area firmly, but not so tight that it will obstruct the flow of blood. Start from the area just below the injured part and then slowly move upwards. Each of the layers should be half overlapped. Finish the bandage at about one hand distance from the injured area. Keep checking after a few hours.
4. Elevation
The injured area needs to be kept straight up or elevated above the hip level. This would limit the blood flow and reduce the swelling. Keep the child’s legs elevated on a chair, stool or a pillow.
5. Referral
Get the injury checked up by a doctor as he will be able to assume the seriousness of the wound and recommend what is to be done next. He could ask to get some x-rays, CT scans or ultrasounds done, and then plan the treatment according to the result.
Sprains, Strains and Fracture
Sometimes, you need to consult a doctor immediately after an injury, such as a fracture. The signs of a broken bone include a cracking sound at the time of injury, extreme pain while moving the affected limb, numbness in the affected area, swelling and fever. RICER treatment would be of no use in case of a fracture. Only a doctor’s intervention, following by plastering of the affected area would aid in the healing and rejoining of the bone.
On the other hand, sprains can be treated with RICER easily. They usually occur because of over stretching, and affect areas like ligaments, joints and soft tissues. The signs of sprain include swelling, pain in movement, and stiffness of the affected part.
One more aspect that needs to be kept in mind is that for the first 48 hours after the injury, don’t use any sort of heat compression or give the child hot rubs for treatment. Avoid intense or even moderate activities for that matter, to prevent the condition from getting worse. If his condition doesn’t improve, consulting a doctor should be your priority. Read more
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
9 hours ago
Q. #AskTheExpert hello dr.
baby planning kar rhi kuch tips btayiye conceive ho jaye
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
9 hours ago
A. it's a natural process 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 Laxmi Chavan-Sawant has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
8 hours ago
Q. when baby is kick? I'm 13 weeks pregnant
Dr Laxmi Chavan-Sawant
Ayurvedic Gynaecologist
7 hours ago
A. during first pregnancy you may feel the baby movements after 24 to 25 weeks of pregnancy and till then only mild flatters may be felt but which you may not be feeling if you are doing some work
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
7 hours ago
Q. I’m in my 31 week 1 day of pregnancy. What will be my delivery date??
As I have low lying placenta with grade 1 maturity.
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
7 hours ago
A. you had to correlate is ultrasound examination. 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
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
7 hours ago
Q. My hemoglobin is 6.4 from 28 weeks of pregnancy. Now I’m 31 weeks pregnant. What should I do?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
7 hours ago
A. Haven’t when you having some kind of iron supplement because they’re very good during the time of pregnancy if you are not having one you need to start with and whatever tabs you take you should just take it with any good juice specially pomegranate juice that’s going to help in doubling the impact of the medicine that you’re taking secondly try and include more of Iron which diet like spinach broccoli beetroot pomegranate black rice sweet potato these things are exceptionally healthy for you to consume
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
6 hours ago
Q. This is my cbc report
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
6 hours ago
A. No there is nothing visible on my wall so I can really really cannot help you can you please repose the question once again providing all the necessary details as once I’m certain what are you talking about what’s mentioned in the report according to that I can provide you proper help on your question
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. #asktheexpert
now I'm 24 weeks. Sometimes I'm feeling pain in my thigh.
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. For thegh query asked needs consultation with doctor for proper guidance so it is better that the doctor will guide you the correct way .
Onlfine consultation can also be taken and the expert will give you the proper answer .
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