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The Travel Buddy That Keeps My Child Healthy and Safe - Bisleri!
My husband works in a leading MNC, so his lifestyle is busy and exhausting to say the least. We would mostly never have family holidays, and I missed seeing newer places. So when my son Shiv turned two, I decided to start travelling again - only now, I wasn’t alone. Shiv and I would pack our bags every three months to visit an unexplored place. I was responsible for Shiv during and after the holiday - no matter what the terrain, his safety was the most important thing for me.
The only constant worry for me was if I was providing him the right food, and most importantly, the right kind of water. While I could carry powders and packaged food, water was something we had to obtain at the location we were travelling to. It wasn’t possible to boil water while on the trip, and I did not trust the hotel staff to boil it properly (I feel that water can only be purified properly if boiled for 5-10 minutes).
As for the local brands selling water, I had always believed that they were not selling pure mineral water as the distillation process was questionable, as was the environment in which it would have been processed - and that wasn’t the best option for my child. Hence, I was never convinced to buy local brands.
Because I was the one with wanderlust, every trip I would worry about the choices I made for Shiv. A mother’s guilt is something that haunts us moms the most - in every phase of life, we end up blaming ourselves!
In my 2 years of travelling with Shiv, I had vested my faith in the water my mother had trusted when I was growing up - Bisleri. And when the opportunity to visit the Bisleri plant came up, I was excited! Not only did I have a chance to learn if I had been making the right choice, I also had the opportunity to see how clean and hygienic the environment in which this water was being purified was. My faith only grew stronger.
Our tour through the 10-step quality process made me understand how every bottle in each pack is safe to consume. Each bottle of water undergoes 114 sub-tests that ensure that the water we consume is safe, pure, and full of important minerals that our bodies need. Among the important steps that ensure the water’s safety is ozonisation – the smallest, minutest micro-bacteria in the water are killed. The water is then re-infused with minerals like magnesium and potassium, which makes it a little sweet to taste.
The safety norms to enter the state-of-the-art factory were vigil - we wore gloves, shoe covers and hair masks just to enter the premises! In our interactions with the on-spot inspectors, we were assured that any automated error would be sorted out manually. The most impressive part about this was how open and transparent everything at the plant was.
While having a casual session with the mothers at the venue, the conversation of washing water bottles came up. I was guilty - how many times had I just washed it with soapy water and not applied an elaborate process of cleansing it with a brush and hot water! I don’t claim to be the ‘perfect’ mom, but I am an informed mother who learns from her mistakes. I like to make decisions that are in the best interests of my child.
So, post this visit, I have moved to incorporating Bisleri in Shiv’s everyday life. Instead of worrying about whether the domestic help has scrubbed his bottle clean, I give him a small bottle of Bisleri whenever he goes out and I’m assured that he is safe from any water-borne diseases.
Every mother is unique just as her child, so many of us may not agree on the different aspects of bringing up a child. But I urge all mothers on this platform to make informed decisions. Book a site visit and go to the Bisleri plant - see the process for yourself and get your queries answered by qualified professionals, and then make the best choice for your child and your family.
I, for one, can safely say - har maa maanti hai ki #HarPaniKiBottleBisleriNahi! To know more, visit bisleri.com
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.
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List of Vaccines for a 15-Month-Old Baby
Vaccination is the most effective and the safest way of protecting your children from all kinds of contagious diseases. Thanks to the many vaccination awareness campaigns that many diseases have been eradicated from our country. But there are many diseases that a baby can get through children or adults. The mother may also pass some other infections at birth.
Important Vaccinations Required for a 15-month-old Baby
Giving vaccination to a baby right from the start is very important to prevent him from any diseases. If your baby has turned 15 months, you would want to know what all vaccinations he will need at this age. As a parent, you must make sure that none of the vaccinations is missed and the child remains protected throughout.
Measles, Mumps, and Rubella (MMR2)
This vaccination is a combination administered against Measles, Mumps, and Rubella. Measles is a highly contagious respiratory disease while mumps and Rubella are contagious infections caused by a virus.
1. Prevents Your Child From
The MMR 2 vaccine protects your child from three diseases - Measles, Mumps, and Rubella.
2. Dosage
A single dose of MMR 2 is around 0.5 ml. It is administered through the intramuscular way into the thigh or upper thigh muscle.
Previous
The first dose is given to a child when the baby is nine months old.
Next
The third and final dose is administered when the baby is between 4-6 years.
3. Precautions to Take
If the 15-month vaccination schedule coincides with a moderate or severe acute illness, then it is best to defer the MMR 2 vaccination.
4. Are There Any Side Effects?
Like any other medicine, vaccines also have side effects. However, these side effects are harmless as compared to being affected by measles, mumps, and rubella. The most common side effects of MMR 2 vaccination are fever, mild rash, soreness in the arm and temporary stiffness or pain in joints.
5. Cost of Vaccination
The cost of MMR 2 vaccine varies according to the brand, manufacturer, and type (vial or injection). The cost varies from Rs 155 to Rs 600 per dose.
6. What If You Miss the Vaccination?
If your child misses a vaccination dose, he can still catch up. Talk to your doctor about it and arrange for the remaining doses at the earliest.
7. How to Take Care After the Vaccination
If your child gets rash without any symptoms, he will not need any treatment as the rash will go away. Ask your doctor if ibuprofen or any other medication can be given for pain or fever. If the injection area feels sore, put a cold cloth over it for 5-10 minutes to soothe him.
Varicella 1
This vaccination is given to children in the form of an injection to children who are 15 months and above.
1. Prevents Your Child From
The varicella vaccine helps protect children from varicella (chickenpox), which is spread through a virus. It is highly contagious.
2. Dosage
The Varicella 1 vaccine is administered as an intramuscular injection which is a 0.5 ml dose.
Previous
There is no dose of Varicella 1 given to the child before the age of 15 months. The first dose is given at 15 months.
Next
The second dose should be given between the ages of 4 and 6 years.
3. Precautions to Take
Children who have shown severe allergic reactions to gelatin or the antibiotic neomycin should not be given the vaccine. Also, if the first varicella vaccine has produced a reaction, the second one shouldn’t be repeated. If you have a family history of seizures, keep your doctor updated so he can decide if the vaccination can be given.
4. Are There Any Side Effects?
All medicines have some potential side effects, so does this vaccine, however, none of them is severe. Pain, swelling, and redness in the injected area are some of the common side effects of this vaccine. Some children may also develop a mild rash with fever.
5. Cost of Vaccination
Although the cost of vaccination can vary with different brands and manufacturers, the average cost of varicella vaccine remains Rs 1600 to Rs 2300 in India.
6. What If You Miss the Vaccination?
Though it is highly recommended to follow the vaccination schedule, it could happen that your baby could miss one in between. But there is nothing to worry about. The missed vaccine can be given to the child at earliest.
7. How to Take Care After the Vaccination
Your child may get a slight fever after the vaccination for a few days. Giving a sponge bath can help in reducing the fever but speak to your doctor if the same persists.
PCV Booster
Pneumococcal disease is an infection caused by a bacteria which affects the inner ear and sinuses. Pneumococcal 7-valent conjugate vaccine (PCV) is used to prevent infection caused by pneumococcal bacteria.
1. Prevents Your Child From
The PCV Booster prevents your baby’s lungs, blood, and brain from being infected by pneumococcal bacteria. This vaccine contains seven types of pneumococcal bacteria so that the child develops immunity against these diseases.
2. Dosage
The PCV booster vaccine is administered when the child is about 15 months of age. This is a single booster dose which is injected intramuscularly.
Previous
The first dose is given when the baby is 6 weeks old, followed by PCV 2 at 10 weeks. PCV 3 is given at week 14 and then the last one is administered at 15 months.
Next
There is no dose to be given after the PCV Booster at 15 months.
3. Precautions to Take
If your baby has a history of seizures, a weakened immune system, or is prone to easy bruising, speak to your doctor before the PCV booster is administered. The PCV booster can be deferred if the child has a severe illness with fever.
4. Are There Any Side Effects?
There are a few serious side effects of this vaccination, like breathing trouble, seizure, high fever, bleeding or high fever. Other side effects include skin rash, weakness, drowsiness, and loss of appetite.
5. Cost of Vaccination
The approximate cost of PCV Booster ranges between Rs 1400 to Rs 3800, depending on the brand and manufacturer.
6. What If You Miss the Vaccination?
You should give the next dose to your child at the earliest of having missed a dose. You could get behind schedule but there is no need to start all over again. Remember, giving the booster on time ensures that your baby is well-protected all the time.
7. How to Take Care After the Vaccination
PCV Booster vaccine could cause severe and mild side effects. Ensure to speak to your doctor if you notice either of them. In case of soreness around the injected area, apply a cold towel to calm your baby.
The above-mentioned vaccines are mandatory for your 15-month-old baby. Make sure you keep a track of the schedule so that your child doesn’t miss any of them. This will keep your little one protected all-round and you will have your peace of mind.
Also Read: Child Immunization & Vaccination Schedule Read more
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Eating Pasta During Pregnancy - Is It Safe?
Pasta is one of the most popular Italian dishes. A plate of pasta either in white sauce or red sauce is a hot favourite among people all over the world. But is it safe to eat pasta during pregnancy? Find out.
Can You Eat Pasta When Pregnant?
When made using the right ingredients, pasta can be rich in vitamin A, vitamin B, fibre-rich complex carbohydrates, and folic acid. However, it is important to remember that pasta also contains lectins and phytates, which cause a nutritional deficiency of zinc and magnesium in the baby. Moreover, most pasta dishes are usually made of refined flour which is not considered to be very healthy. Pasta made with whole-grain wheat can be eaten during pregnancy, but only in moderation.
Which Type of Pasta Is Considered Good?
Pasta is tasty, cheap, and easy to cook. However, it is not considered to be very nutritious. Does this mean we should stop eating pasta? No. Today, there are a ton of healthier alternatives available that can up the nutritional value of this dish. A few of them are listed below.
1. Whole Wheat Pasta
Whole wheat pasta is a healthy alternative to the pasta made from refined flour as it contains a lot of fibre and protein. This reduces the risk of obesity, heart disease, type II diabetes, and a few types of cancer. However, people who are sensitive to gluten or have celiac disease should still avoid it.
2. Quinoa Pasta
Quinoa pasta is made from flour that is produced by grinding quinoa seeds. Quinoa pasta is protein-rich, contains a good amount of iron and magnesium, and is gluten-free, which makes it the best and healthiest among all types of pasta. It is also said to reduce blood sugar, insulin, and triglyceride levels.
3. Spelt Pasta
Spelt is a grain that is closely related to (but is not) wheat. Spelt pasta is high in fibre and rich in protein. It contains a moderate amount of gluten. Therefore, people with gluten sensitivity should avoid it. However, people with mild gluten intolerance can eat it.
4. Brown Rice Pasta
Brown rice pasta is ideal for people suffering from Irritable Bowel Syndrome (IBS). It is gluten-free and free of FODMAP (fermentable oligosaccharides, disaccharides, monosaccharides and polyols) – i.e molecules that cannot be absorbed by people suffering from IBS.
Are There Any Health Benefits of Having Pasta for Pregnant Women?
Pasta is filling and nutritious if made the right way and with the right contents. Listed below are 8 benefits of the much-loved dish.
1. Rich in Fibre
Multigrain pasta made with a whole lot of vegetables and leafy greens like spinach and kale can be a good source of fibre and minerals.
2. Free of Gluten
If you have been advised to go gluten-free, you can eat brown rice pasta and quinoa pasta. As discussed above, these kinds of pasta are gluten-free and thus safe for people with IBS or other gastro problems.
3. Keeps Blood Pressure and Blood Sugar in Check
Whole wheat pasta, quinoa pasta, and sprouted-grain pasta are said to keep blood sugar levels and blood pressure levels in check. Quinoa pasta, in particular, reduces the chances of obesity, thus cutting down the risk of heart disease and gestational diabetes in pregnant women.
4. Rich in Folic Acid and Iron
Whole wheat pasta is rich in folic acid and iron, which are some of the most essential nutrients for the baby’s overall development in the mother’s womb.
5. Improves Bowel Movement
Pasta made from whole wheat grain flour and quinoa flour contain ample fibre. Adding green leafy vegetables to the dish aids in improved bowel movements, thereby preventing common pregnancy problems like constipation and haemorrhoids.
6. Increases Energy Level
The carbohydrate content in pasta helps elevate the energy levels in pregnant women and keeps them active.
7. Prevents Infections
The vitamin A content in pasta prevents several types of infections during pregnancy.
Risks of Eating Pasta While Pregnant
Here are some risks attached to eating pasta during pregnancy.
1. Contains Phytates and Lectins
Pasta contains phytates and lectins. Phytates block the body from absorbing magnesium and zinc, two of the much-needed nutrients required during pregnancy. Lectins encourage the passage of toxins from unhealthy food into the blood.
2. Presence of Gluten
Gluten is present in most types of pasta. Therefore, people who are gluten sensitive or suffer from IBS or Celiac disease should avoid eating pasta. Eating too much gluten can also cause problems in women who only show signs of allergies as it can aggravate the symptoms and cause problems.
3. Weight Gain
Gaining too much weight during pregnancy could lead to complications during labour. Therefore, pregnant women should refrain from eating foods that can cause weight gain, one of which is pasta.
4. Presence of Iron
Iron intake prevents anaemia, but on the flip side, too much iron can cause constipation which can cause haemorrhoids.
5. Increase in Blood Sugar
Pasta made from refined wheat flour can cause a spike in your blood sugar levels if one suffers from diabetes. Therefore, eating pasta made from whole wheat grain flour or quinoa flour is advisable.
How to Handle Pasta Cravings While Pregnant
Cravings are a part and parcel of pregnancy. However, pasta is a dish that has high carbohydrate and (often) gluten content and should be avoided in most situations. If you absolutely cannot control your cravings, here are a few ways to handle them:
Try putting more veggies and less pasta while cooking. This way, you will be able to satiate your cravings and also eat healthily.
Take small helpings. Do not eat a lot in one go.
Instead of going for the white sauce pasta, go for a healthier red sauce pasta or a simple olive oil pasta.
Use whole-wheat pasta or quinoa pasta in your dish instead of refined white flour pasta.
Healthy Pasta Recipes for Pregnant Women
Here are two pasta recipes to help you eat healthily and manage your cravings.
1. Spicy Shrimp Tomato Pasta
This is a simple and tasty pasta recipe for non-vegetarian food lovers. It is easy to cook and the ingredients are easily available.
What You Will Need
Whole-wheat/quinoa/brown rice pasta – 200 g
Olive oil – 2 tbsp
Garlic – 4-5 cloves
Shrimp/prawns (deveined and cleaned) – 100 g
Fresh tomatoes (diced) – 3-4
Red pepper flakes (optional)
Cracked pepper
Fresh coriander leaves (chopped roughly)
Butter – 2 tbsp
Salt to taste
Instructions to Follow
Cook the pasta in a large bowl of boiling water according to the package instructions.
Drain the pasta in a colander and set aside.
Heat a pan and add in the olive oil and butter. Crush the garlic and fry it in the pan. Once the garlic is fried, add in the shrimp.
Sauté the shrimp for a few minutes and take them out of the pan. Keep aside.
Pour in the diced tomatoes, red pepper flakes, and add in the cracked pepper.
When the tomatoes get cooked and form a sauce-like consistency, add in the cooked pasta and fried shrimp.
Cook the pasta in the sauce well and add in salt. Stir well.
Turn off the heat and add coriander leaves. Serve hot.
2. Veggie Pasta
This simple and light pasta dish is exactly what you need during your pregnancy.
What Will You Need
Quinoa pasta/whole-wheat pasta/brown rice pasta – 4 cups
Broccoli florets – 4-5
Carrots (diced) – 1/4 cup
Red bell pepper (thinly sliced) – 1/4 cup
Onion (thinly sliced) – 1/4 cup
Garlic (finely diced) – 3-4 cloves
Zucchini (thinly sliced) – 1/4 cup
Cherry tomatoes – ½ cup
Green peas – ½ cup
Parmesan cheese (grated) – ½ cup
Olive oil – 4 -5 tbsp
Salt to taste
Instructions to Follow
In a large vessel, bring the water to boil and cook the pasta. After the pasta turns tender, put it in cold water.
Then, in a large pan, put the oil. Once the oil is heated, put the crushed garlic. Fry it till the raw smell goes away.
Add the onions and fry till they turn brown. Then add the broccoli (semi-cooked), carrot, red bell peppers, peas, and zucchini. Sauté for a few minutes till the veggies turn soft. Add in the cherry tomatoes.
Add the pasta and salt.
Mix all the ingredients together. Add the grated cheese in the end, and serve hot.
Just like other food, pasta should be consumed with caution during pregnancy. Too much of it could result in obesity, high blood pressure, or rise in blood sugar levels which may further cause problems during labour or pose a risk on the baby in your womb. Remember that taking care of your eating habits during pregnancy goes a long way in giving birth to a healthy baby.
Resources and References: The Bump
Also Read: Eating Pizza during Pregnancy Read more
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Sticky Eyes in Newborn Babies
When you have a baby in your arms, your panic button always remains in an alert mode. And when the baby is in the newborn phase, the magnitude of it just increases. Even a tiny aberration may become a reason for concern. So, when you see a squish of yellowish fluid forming, near your new born's eyes, you need not panic. Read on to find out what it is and the steps you would take to treat it.
Causes of Sticky Eyes in Infants
The most common causes of sticky eyes in babies are:
Babies have narrow tear duct which makes tear accumulation frequent, leading to sticky eyes.
Your baby may have picked up a bacterial infection during birth.
Baby Sticky Eye Signs
Some of the tell-tale signs of sticky eyes include:
It is characterized by a yellow or white fluid at the corner of the eyes.
The discharge may appear flaky or crusty, especially after sleep.
There may also be mild redness and inflammation around or below the eyes.
The baby’s eyes may become watery, which could be a result of heavy tearing of the tear ducts.
The colour of the discharge can also turn green.
Are Sticky Eyes in Infants Harmful?
Sticky eyes clear after a few days with regular cleaning and will not require further thought. However, in some cases, if it does not cure naturally or the condition aggravates, you may seek further evaluation.
How Can You Tell That Your Baby Has an Eye Infection?
While an eye infection can often be confused with a rash or a bruise, some of the signs include:
Excessive rubbing of eyes and discomfort.
Soreness developing around the eyes or the eyes turns red.
Discharge gets more frequent and more severe.
If There is a Yellow Substance Around Baby’s Eyes, Can it Be Eye Infection?
The yellowish discharge is due to the blocked tear ducts and as the ducts open, the discharge stops. However, in some cases, it may also be a sign of infection and conjunctivitis.
Treatment for Infant Sticky Eye
Suggested are some home-based treatments for sticky eyes.
1. Sterilized Water
This is the most commonly practised method to clean the eyes.
Step 1 - Wash your hands thoroughly. Keep sterilized water – water that has been boiled and cooled and sterilized cotton balls handy.
Step 2 - Wipe the gluey substance with sterilized cotton gently. Start dabbing the cotton ball in the inner corner of the eyes. Do this and gradually move towards the outer corner of the eyes.
Step 3 - Tilt the baby’s head towards the eye being cleaned. This will ensure that the water does not trickle down or to the side and prevent cross-contamination.
Step 4 - Repeat the process until eyes are cleaned and use a new cotton bud each time the process is repeated.
2. Saline Solution
The steps mentioned above can be done using a saline solution as well. It minimizes the build-up of any further bacterial infection.
3. Cold Compress
It provides moisture to the eyes and makes it easier to dissolve the flakiness caused by the discharge, and the baby can open their eyes after sleep.
4. Antibiotic Solution
The paediatrician will be able to suggest eye drops or antibiotic solution for cleaning the discharge.
5. Massaging
Gently massaging the areas near the eyes and nose may help in opening the blocked ducts.
6. Breast Milk
Though there is no supporting data on this, a lot of experienced mums use breast milk to wipe off the sticky discharge from the eyes.
7. External Instrument
The sticky discharge forms because of the narrow or blocked tear ducts. If the ducts do not open naturally within a year or so, it may be required to open it through an external wire. This needs to be done by the doctor.
Preventive Measures
Below are some proactive steps you could take to keep your child safe:
Minimize the exposure to direct sunlight or cold. Remember, the baby is still adapting to the change the environment.
The doctor may prescribe some preventive medicines to reduce the build-up of infection.
When Should You Call the Doctor
Newborn sticky eyes are the result of blocked tear ducts. In most cases, it is not serious and can be treated at home. However, if the baby has sticky eyes for a long time that does not get better with baby sticky eye natural remedies, you should call the doctor. As mentioned above, do keep a check on the signs of developing an infection.
Sticky eyes aren’t a problem in itself. In fact, it is a natural process while growing up and in most cases, it gets better with the home remedies. But, it is always good to be aware and has a careful eye, so that it does not lead to any infection. So, stay aware and stay safe!
Also Read: Baby Rubbing Eyes: Causes and Symptoms Read more
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Wood Apple During Pregnancy - Health Benefits and Side Effects
Wood apple or bael fruit is known for its health benefits in many places in the country. In fact, since 2000 BC, it has been used in India as a remedy for several health problems, as well as for rituals. But whether it is safe during pregnancy is definitely something that needs to be known before consuming it.
What is Wood Apple or Bael Fruit?
Scientifically known as Aegle marmelos, the wood apple is a fruit with a hard-brown shell and a rough exterior. Its pulp is brown in colour, strongly pungent and usually mealy in texture. The pulp has numerous crunchy, white, and small edible seeds. It has several other names, such as Bengal quince, bilwa, monkey fruit, elephant apple, golden apple, stone apple and bili.
Nutritional Facts of Wood Apple
The wood apple is very rich in a number of nutrients. The nutritional content in 100 grams of wood apple is listed in the table below.
Nutrients
Amount (100 grams)
Carbohydrate
31.8 gms
Protein
1.8 gms
Fibres
2.9 gms
Pottasium
600 mg
Vitamin C
8 mg
Calcium
85 mg
Iron
0.7 mg
Phosphorus
50 mg
Source: http://theindianvegan.blogspot.com/2012/10/all-about-bael.html
Health Benefits of Bael Fruit for Pregnant Women
Is wood apple good for pregnancy? To answer this, we must look into its health benefits before judging whether or not it is safe to have them while being pregnant.
1. Balances the Level of Fluids in the Body
Wood apple contains potassium which is essential for balancing the level of fluids in the body. During pregnancy, it is essential to keep the level of fluids and electrolytes in the mother’s body under control. Since the blood volume expands during this time, electrolytes become essential for the body. Potassium also helps send nerve impulses, and in the event of muscle contraction, potassium also prevents cramps in the body.
2. Aids in Digestion
Another common problem that crops up during pregnancy is indigestion. As the foetus grows up in size, it gradually begins to exert pressure on the digestive system, leading to a number of problems with digestion on a regular basis. Intake of wood apple can help in the process of digestion as the fibre content of the fruit is especially effective in the regard.
3. Fights Constipation
Constipation is also a very common symptom observed during pregnancy. The laxative property of bael fruit or wood apple essentially helps the pregnant mother by curing constipation to a large extent.
4. Fights infections
The extracts of wood apple are highly antimicrobial. Its strong antifungal and antibacterial properties help fight against infections in the body. During pregnancy, the mother often suffers from a lack of immunity which leads to several infections that are harmful to both the baby as well as the mother. Therefore, intake of bael juice in pregnancy helps the mother fight with several infections.
Side Effects of Having Wood Apple in Pregnancy
Pregnancy is a very crucial period of one's life, and surprisingly foods that are beneficial during normal time are often considered to be risky during pregnancy, as it might pose a threat to the mother as well as the baby. Some of the risks associated with the intake of wood apple during pregnancy are as follows:
The wood apple fruit contains tannins which have a carcinogenic effect when used for a long period of time and may lead to miscarriages in pregnant women.
Consuming large amounts of this fruit can affect the digestive system leading to the formation of gas, bloating, and gastrointestinal discomfort.
There is a lot of debate over whether it is safe to consume wood apple during pregnancy. In spite of its many benefits, some evidence has also shown how it can be risky to consume it while carrying a baby. It is, therefore, safer to consult a doctor before consumption of bael juice in pregnancy.
Also Read: Eating Apple During Pregnancy Read more
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DVT (Deep Vein Thrombosis) in Pregnancy
Along with many physiological changes in the body during pregnancy, an increase in the susceptibility to Deep Vein Thrombosis(DVT) is also found in many women. Veins are tubes that transport blood in the body, and blockage in these veins is termed as venous thrombosis. During pregnancy, a woman has a six times higher chance of developing such a clot in the vein, compared to a non-pregnant woman. Learn about the various aspects of DVT, its causes, symptoms, treatment and prevention.
What is Deep Vein Thrombosis (DVT)?
In deep vein thrombosis, clotting of blood occurs in the veins found in the leg and pelvic region. Clotting of blood is a normal physiological process in the body and occurs when there are any cuts or openings in the blood vessel. In the case of DVT, this occurs inside the vein, constricting the flow of blood resulting in serious implications, if left unidentified. Thrombosis in pregnancy is caused by an increase in the blood clotting capacity of the body during pregnancy, as a means of preventing excessive blood loss during delivery. This can sometimes result in a blood clot in the leg during pregnancy.
How Common is DVT During Pregnancy?
DVT during pregnancy is not very common and occurs in only one in thousand pregnant women. The risk of developing DVT is six times more in a pregnant woman, with an increased chance of occurrence in the first trimester of pregnancy and six weeks post-partum.
Why is It More Common When Pregnant?
The body experiences numerous physiological changes during pregnancy. These changes are mostly driven by variations in the hormonal levels. One reason is one of the safety precautions that a woman's body takes during pregnancy, which is an increase in the clotting proteins and a decrease in the anti-clotting proteins, to minimize blood loss during delivery. Another factor that can contribute to this condition is pressure exerted by the enlarged uterus on the veins which carry blood to the heart from the lower body.
Causes of DVT
DVT during pregnancy is primarily caused by the hormonal changes the body undergoes during this period.
1. Oestrogen
During pregnancy, the circulating levels of oestrogen hormone are high in the blood, which in turn increases the chances of a blood clot.
2. Uterine Growth
The expansion of uterus that occurs with the development of the foetus, puts a lot of strain on the veins carrying blood back from the lower body to the heart. This also results in clotting of blood inside the veins returning from the extremities.
3. Increase in Body Weight
Excessive weight gain puts a lot of pressure on the veins of the legs and pelvis, leading to increasing the chances of having a DVT.
4. Multiple Pregnancy
Mothers carrying more than one foetus in their womb have a higher risk of developing DVT.
5. Age and Genetics
Women who have a family history of DVT or are expecting a baby at 35 years of age or more are at risk of experiencing venous thrombosis during pregnancy.
DVT Sign and Symptoms
Women who develop DVT during their pregnancy have one or more of the following symptoms:
Pain in one leg accompanied by swelling
Visibly enlarged veins
Pain while walking
The feeling of tenderness in the thighs and calf muscle
Diagnosis
Based on the symptoms and previous family history of DVT, the medical practitioner usually performs a Doppler ultrasound examination to check for any venous blocks. The Doppler ultrasound estimates the speed of blood flow in the veins and flags the areas that have reduced flow. The diagnosis of DVT can be very tricky, and in some cases, the doctor may prescribe a D-dimer test. This test works by identifying the presence of any blood clots in the blood vessels.
To quantify and characterize the block, doctors also carry out a venogram, in which a dye is injected into the veins to help in clearly visualizing the blockages.
Who is Most At the Risk of Getting DVT?
Pregnant women who have one of the following risk factors have an increased susceptibility to developing DVT.
A family history of DVT
Previous history of DVT
Age above 35 years
Obesity or weight gain
Women who travel long distances during pregnancy
Smoking
Inactive lifestyle
Multiple pregnancies
C-section delivery
Clotting or inflammation due to infection in pregnancy
Treatment of DVT in Pregnancy
Once a diagnosis of DVT during pregnancy is made, the doctor usually prescribes medications to thin the blood. This medication is continued after delivery up to at least six weeks post-partum, as there are chances of block formation even after the birth of the baby.
Does Deep Vein Thrombosis Affect the Baby?
Typically, DVT causes discomfort to the mother but does not affect the baby's growth and development. Rare situations where the block moves up till the lungs, affecting its function, it can hamper the oxygen supply to the foetus. Also, during delivery, when the mother loses excessive blood because of the blood thinners, it can affect the baby.
Management
Management of DVT during pregnancy is possible with heparin injections. Heparin is an anticoagulant that inhibits the clotting of blood. Apart from the medication, some lifestyle changes like adopting an active routine, reducing body weight and quitting smoking can also largely prevent the further clotting of blood.
A special kind of compression stockings can be worn to improve the blood circulation in the leg. Apart from that, drinking lot of water and exercising also helps in managing DVT.
How to Reduce the Risk of DVT While Travelling?
The chances of the symptoms of DVT flaring up is high during travel. To reduce the risk while travelling, take precautions like increasing your water intake, ensuring constant movement of the lower body either in the sitting position itself or by walking within the vehicle, and completely avoiding the intake of alcohol.
Can Deep Vein Thrombosis Affect Labour?
If you have been identified to have a tendency to develop DVT, then the doctor would advise you to take some precautions before the delivery. To reduce the risk of developing thrombosis during labour, you can wear the compression stockings while constantly moving around and drink lots of fluids before going to deliver the baby.
If you have already been diagnosed and are on heparin medications, the doctor may ask you to discontinue it as it can interfere with the clotting of blood after delivery.
Can Caesarean Delivery Increase Risk of Getting Blood Clots?
Yes, a C-Section delivery is shown to increase the risk of post-partum blood clots, as compared to a vaginal birth. This is because the body takes necessary precautions and mobilizes its healing mechanisms for an invasive procedure, one of which is an increase in the propensity of the blood to clot.
Prevention
Some of the ways by which you can prevent the occurrence of DVT during pregnancy are,
1. Drinking Lots of Water
Fluid intake is very important in the prevention of DVT as dilutes the blood and prevents it from becoming very thick. This has to be followed throughout pregnancy and even after the delivery to prevent the formation of blood clots.
2. Exercising
If you are at the risk of developing thrombosis during pregnancy, then practising light and safe exercises regularly can immensely help in improving the blood circulation to the body. Exercises that particularly benefit the circulation of the lower body can be helpful in preventing DVT.
3. Move on the Go
If you are having DVT and have to travel long distances on a regular basis, then try to move around inside the bus, flight or train every few minutes to break the resting period. This keeps the circulation alive. If getting up and moving around is not a possibility, then try to do simple twisting and moving exercises in sitting position itself.
4. Wear Stockings
Compression stockings that activate the blood circulation in the leg can be worn during pregnancy and even during labour to avoid clot formation.
DVT is a common condition in pregnancy that many women lack awareness about. It is easily treatable with medications and identifying it at the right time is the key to have a safe and healthy pregnancy.
Also Read: High & Low Haemoglobin Levels in Pregnancy Read more
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