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IVF (In Vitro Fertilization) Failure: Causes, Symptoms & Tips to Cope
In-vitro fertilisation is an advanced and powerful technique that has helped couples having trouble conceiving, to get pregnant and have a baby. Therefore, you might wonder why IVF fails, when it is considered to be effective. Not every process comes with a guarantee and IVF itself depends on numerous factors for its own success.
IVF Procedure
Knowing how IVF works will give you a better understanding of everything required for a successful IVF cycle. Here is what the IVF procedure typically looks like.
1. Hormone Injections
Usually, one egg is released from an ovary each month. However, IVF requires multiple eggs to be retrieved from the body. Hence, follicle stimulating hormones are injected, so multiple eggs can be released at once, and then retrieved.
2. Retrieval of Eggs
When the eggs have just been released from the follicles, the right time to remove the eggs is determined. The retrieval procedure takes under 30 minutes, during which the doctor locates the follicles in the ovary through an ultrasound, and removes them using a hollow needle.
3. Fertilisation
Immediately upon retrieval, the eggs are placed in the same dish as your partner’s sperm or a donor’s sperm, to be fertilised.
4. Observation
The embryos (fertilised eggs) are then placed under observation to grow and develop properly. This observation period is usually five days, until the embryos reach the blastocyst (advanced) stage.
5. Embryo Transfer
The good quality embryos with the highest chance of being implanted are picked out and transferred to your uterus in a simple procedure. This is a quick procedure, where the doctor inserts a catheter into the uterus and deposits the embryos.
6. Implantation and Pregnancy
The embryos are left to implant or attach to the uterus walls for a successful pregnancy. In cases where this does not occur, it is considered a failed IVF cycle.
IVF Failure Reasons
Knowing that the IVF procedure has failed barely gives any idea about the reasons that led up to it. The causes can vary, depending on numerous factors.
1. Embryo Transplantation
At times, the embryo that has been fertilised successfully might not latch onto the uterus successfully, and fail to implant.
2. Absence of a Conducive Embryo
During the IVF procedure, the doctors might not find any embryo that is healthy and can successfully lead to a pregnancy. This makes it necessary to terminate the process.
3. Failure of Eggs to Fertilize
Even before an embryo formation, the eggs may fail to be fertilised by the sperm. This could be because of issues in either of them or even both.
4. An Absence of Quality Eggs
For an embryo to be formed properly, the eggs need to be of a high quality. If those are not obtained in a good amount, the chances of embryo formation are close to none.
5. Inadequate Number of Follicles
This is an early stage termination of IVF, even before the eggs are obtained from the female partner. If the stimulation fails to create enough follicles for egg generation, IVF cannot proceed.
Symptoms of IVF Failure
The IVF implantation failure symptoms are quite evident by the absence of any changes. Implantation generally causes changes in the tendency to smell, increased sensitivity of breasts, vaginal discharge, and slight abdominal cramping. If these don’t exist even after a couple of weeks , post IVF, it might be indicative of a failure.
What Happens When IVF Fails?
In case you meet with an IVF failure, it would be necessary to meet your doctor to understand what happened and how can you proceed ahead from there.
1. Counselling Sessions
More than the medical aspect of things, the news of IVF failure can be emotionally distressing for both you and your partner. This can even result in depression or anxiety about trying it out again. Undertaking counselling sessions can help you channel your emotions and find a semblance of peace again.
2. Changes in Your Lifestyle
By indulging in conversations with your doctor, there will be some clarity around any specific factors surrounding your lifestyle that might have contributed to an unsuccessful IVF procedure. Certain changes might be prescribed in order to keep your weight in an optimal range, as well as other exercises that can help boost hormones conducive to pregnancy.
3. Carrying Out Genetic Testing Before Implantation
This is generally recommended if many other fertility options have failed to bear fruit. The costs associated with genetic testing are substantial. However, it helps diagnose any problems that might cause a problem with implantation of the embryo, and correct them or mitigate them by choosing an appropriate embryo.
How to Cope With IVF Failure?
Understanding the IVF failure causes is one aspect of coming to terms with the incident. But what’s more important is for you to cope with the incident itself and help yourself in returning to normalcy in the best way possible.
1. Focus on Doing Things You Enjoy
Make a list of all the things you enjoy doing and start ticking them off. Take a mini-trip with your friends, gorge on tasty foods, and anything that you call a fun time. Give yourself the enjoyment you deserve to take your mind off the disheartment.
2. Engage in Conversations With Similar People
IVF failures are observed in many women. Connecting with them either via an online forum or an in-person meeting could help you voice your emotions and concerns, and find a friend who understands your experience and can support you through this. Letting out your feelings can make you feel lighter.
3. Carry Out Self-Healing
The body undergoes a massive change during IVF, and now it has to make its way back to its usual state. Your first period can take some time to occur since your menstrual cycle requires a few days to reset itself. When the bleeding does occur, try to celebrate it, since it is a good sign that your body is doing alright. Indulge in acupressure or alternative healing methods that relax your mind and body together.
4. Put Together a Future Plan
Taking a look at various fertility websites and articles, as well as checking out different discussions in forums can start giving you a better idea of the options that you can choose from. It also helps you look forward to the future by creating a plan of action if the other option were to fail as well.
5. Trust the Process
In certain cases, IVF might proceed to a successful pregnancy, only to meet with a miscarriage or requiring termination of the foetus due to certain medical conditions. Talk to your doctor to understand the reasons for failure in a better manner. These can help you cope with it and accept your experience.
6. Choose Who You Tell About it
The excitement of being a mother via IVF would have you talking to all your friends and family members about it. However, when the procedure fails, it can be awkward and painful to answer their questions over and over again. Look at this as a learning lesson and keep a shorter circle of people who know about any later attempts. Once you have a successful result, you can happily announce your pregnancy.
7. Stop Blaming Yourself For the Results
The IVF procedure is pretty complex and depends on numerous factors to be present in the optimal state for it to be successful. You don’t need to take all the blame of having an unhealthy body or being careless in any way.
How Many Times Can You Try IVF?
Ideally, a couple should be ready to try around six cycles of IVF to get a good result. Since that can be quite costly for many, fertility clinics might have certain plans that can reduce costs or share the risks of failure.
When to Try Again
You may not know why IVF fails with good embryos, but that should not keep you from trying again. If you have faced failure in the first IVF, give yourself time to recover and get a checkup done with your doctor. Once your parameters are normal and you are emotionally, mentally, and physically in a good place, you can try again.
Factors Your Second IVF Success Will Depend On
Even if you have faced a failure in your first IVF cycle, you can try again to achieve a successful result. The dependency of an IVF procedure bearing fruit in the second attempt lies on a variety of factors.
The capabilities of the embryo in terms of chromosomes and genetics
The quality of the embryo itself
Any existing issues in the uterus
The number of eggs retrieved
The professional expertise of the doctor in transferring the embryo, as well as obtaining the eggs
The upkeep and quality of the laboratory where the IVF procedure is being conducted
An intended result of conducting a stimulation of the ovaries during IVF
The amount of sperm that is obtained, as well as its quality
The number of eggs that are obtained, as well as their quality
The age of the female partner undergoing IVF.
Figuring out what next when IVF fails can be troubling for many couples. The key is to focus on the end result and not blame yourself for things that go wrong. So, take a deep breath, and look foward to a good future.
Also Read: Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT) – A Fertility Treatment Read more
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Epilepsy in Children
Epilepsy affects over 50 million people worldwide and is characterised by spontaneous seizures that may range from brief, almost undetectable movement to vigorous trembling that continues for a long duration. These seizures may also cause the individual to lose consciousness or experience muscle spasms.
What Is Epilepsy?
Epilepsy is a chronic neurological disorder that causes unprecedented seizures, along with frequent and sudden instances of sensory disruption. It is known to affect people of all ages and is the fourth most prevalent neurological condition.
What Are Epilepsy Seizures In Children And Its Types?
In children, epilepsy seizures can occur in various forms and can also affect any part of the body. Based on which area of the brain is affected, seizures can be of two types– generalised and focal.
Generalised seizures
These seizures affect the neurons on both sides of the brain causing convulsions that can range from mild to severe and can occasionally result in loss of consciousness.
Generalised seizures include:
Atonic seizures– Here the muscles go limp making the person plummet to the ground.
Absence seizures – These rare seizures cause the person to remain unusually still and stare blankly ahead.
Myoclonic fits– These fits cause the body to experience muscle spasms or sudden jerks in a specific part of the body.
Clonic seizures– These cause sudden jerks and spasms in the child’s body that may be visible as regular and repeated, flexing and releasing of the arms, elbows, and legs.
Tonic seizures– Tonic seizures can make the body arch back and cause difficulty in breathing and also makes the person lose consciousness.
Tonic-clonic seizures– These seizures are also called Grand Mal seizures and are the toughest of the lot. They begin with loss of consciousness and further lead to the tonic and the clonic phases.
Focal seizures
These seizures, also called partial seizures, affect the brain cells on only one side of the brain and as a result, affect only a part of the body. Focal epilepsy in children can be classified into four categories
Focal aware seizures: These are also called simple partial seizures and children stay conscious and aware during these seizures.
Focal motor seizures: These can cause the child to experience repetitive twitching, spasms or may even cause movements like clapping or rubbing hands.
Focal impaired aware seizures: These complex partial seizures cause confusion and loss of memory. The children will likely not remember the episode.
Focal non-motor seizures: These seizures are characterised by intense emotions, goosebumps, a feeling that the heart is racing or abrupt waves of cold or heat.
What Happens During a Seizure?
There are millions of neurons present in the brain that send out electric signals to control the various functions of the human body. An epileptic episode is caused due to disruption in the transmission of these electric signals to and from the brain. A severe burst of electrical signals in the brain hamper their flow causing seizures on the part of the brain affected.
What is Childhood Epilepsy Syndrome?
If a child’s seizures are defined or identified by a specific set of features that take place simultaneously, then it is called a childhood epilepsy syndrome. These particular signs may include their age, the type of seizure, possible learning disabilities and the patterns on the EEG (electroencephalogram).
What Are the Different Types of Childhood Epilepsy Syndromes?
Childhood epilepsy syndromes are of various kinds and vary as per the symptoms prevalent.
1. Childhood and Juvenile Absence Epilepsies
This epilepsy syndrome has an onset age that is between four to ten years and is characterised by sudden stillness and staring spells. Also called as ‘petit mal’ epilepsy, it is usually outgrown.
2. Benign Rolandic Epilepsy
This epilepsy causes focal seizures in the mouth, face and cause speech impairment or drooling. The seizures usually happen while the child is asleep or when he wakes up in the morning. The onset age of this epilepsy is five to ten years and in most cases, it is outgrown.
3. Infantile Spasms
Also called West’s syndrome, these occur within the first year after the baby is born. This epilepsy causes severe jerks in the baby’s body and may cause the baby to fall forward. This kind of epilepsy is considered dangerous as it associated with other epilepsy and cause developmental delays.
4. Temporal Lobe Epilepsy
This kind of epilepsy can occur at any age. These are focal seizures that can include both simple partial seizures and complex partial seizures characterised by staring and confusion or loss of memory.
Research has indicated that these seizures, when prevalent over a long period of time, can cause damage to the hippocampus area of the brain, which is associated with memory and learning. Hence, it is best treated immediately.
5. Juvenile Myoclonic Epilepsy
This form of epilepsy is known to start in the teenage years and give rise to generalised seizures. The seizures may include myoclonic jerks, tonic-clonic seizures or even absence seizures in some cases. These seizures can be controlled with medication and become less severe with age.
6. Frontal Lobe Epilepsy
These seizures happen while the child is asleep and may include short, recurring seizures with severe body movements. They seizures can begin at any age.
7. Lennox-Gastaut Syndrome
This difficult to treat epilepsy has an onset age of one to eight years. The seizures are known to be resistant to epileptic drugs and often require alternate treatments and surgery. These are generalised seizures that are characterised by a combination of different seizures and often cause development delays and behavioural issues.
What Are the Causes of Epilepsy in Kids?
The causes of epilepsy may be different in different children and tend to differ by age. While some forms of epilepsy are genetic, there are many idiopathic epilepsies that have unknown causes.
Certain children develop epilepsy due to genetic reasons by the transfer of genes. However, the exact cause of seizures due to genes is not known as yet.
Head injuries may result in seizures.
Conditions that may cause damage to the brain, like some fevers, brain tumours and infection may also result in epilepsy.
Some developmental disorders like Angelman’s syndrome, neurofibromatosis, Down’s syndrome, and tuberous sclerosis may also raise the possibility of epilepsy.
Changes in the brain structure are the cause of epilepsy in about three to ten percent of the cases. Children born with such structural changes may develop epilepsy.
Children with autism may also experience epilepsy seizures in three to ten percent of the cases.
Congenital disorders and chemical imbalances in the body may also cause seizures in infants.
Epilepsy Symptoms and Signs
Symptoms of epilepsy depend on the area of the brain that is affected. Epilepsy triggers in children may vary and can cause symptoms that can be characterised by motor and non-motor symptoms
Motor symptoms
These include:
Sudden jerks
Abrupt twitching of the muscles
Numbness or weakness in the muscles
Spasms
Stiffening of muscles
Loss of bladder and bowel control
Issues with breathing
Speech impairment
Repeated actions like clapping or rubbing hands
Loss of consciousness
Non-motor or absence symptoms
These include:
Sudden and intense emotional changes
Loss of awareness
Blank stares and rapid eye blinks
Lack of response
Sudden confusion
How is Epilepsy Diagnosed?
The diagnosis Epilepsy diagnosis includes complete medical evaluation paired with a diagnostic testing regimen. The doctors may also take information on the medical history of the family and details of when the seizure occurred.
Diagnostic tests include
Electroencephalogram (EEG): This is a procedure where the electrical activity in the brain is recorded with the help of electrodes that are attached to the child’s scalp. This test provides a wave pattern that can indicate the presence of epilepsy.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): This test is done if there is suspicion of lesions in the brain to get a detailed image of the brain.
Blood tests: Blood tests can point to any infections that may be present in the brain that may possibly cause seizures
Neurological tests: The doctor may conduct a neurological test to map the cognitive functions, motor abilities and the behavioural patterns of the child to verify the type of epilepsy.
Computerised Tomography (CT or CAT): These scans provide a cross-sectional image of the brain and point out to any tumours, bleeding or cysts in the brain that may be the cause of seizures.
Lumbar Puncture or Spinal Tap: This test is used to extract a small amount of the cerebral spinal fluid, which is then tested for infections.
Functional MRI: This test identifies the changes in the flow of blood to various parts of the brain and can indicate the area of the brain that is affected.
Epilepsy Treatment
Epileptic treatment for the child will be determined keeping in mind the age, type of seizures, medical history, overall health and extent of the condition. Some of the usual courses of treatments used as a cure for epilepsy in children include:
Anti-epileptic Medicines
Anti-epileptic drugs are used to control and minimise the frequency of the seizures. Very often these medications are effective in controlling seizures and are usually recommended to be continued for at least two years after the seizures stop.
These drugs are prescribed by the doctors bearing in mind the age of the child, the type, and severity of the condition, apart from other factors. Anti-epileptic drugs have been successful in 80 percent of the cases in helping the patients become free of seizures.
Ketogenic Diet
Children who are resistant to medications may be placed on a ketogenic diet. This is a high fat-low carb diet that breaks down fat instead of carbs, inducing a state of ketosis. This is found to reduce the occurrence of seizures.
Surgery
When the child does not respond to medications or diet changes, surgery may be recommended. Immediate surgery can also be conducted if the child has seizure causing lesions in the brain.
Vagus Nerve Stimulation or VNS Therapy
Children who do not respond to the above courses of treatment and are not cleared for surgery may be suggested the VNS therapy. This therapy is usually used for children over 12 years.
In this procedure, an electronic pulse generator is surgically placed in the chest wall. This device sends electric impulses through the vagus nerve to the brain every few minutes to control seizures. The impulses can be activated during a seizure episode by holding a magnet over the device.
Effects of Childhood Epilepsy on Your Kid’s Life
Children with epilepsy can and should be encouraged to take an active part in activities. In instances where certain Epilepsy triggers in children like stress or excitement may pose a challenge, general precautions can be taken. It is important to understand that,
A child with epilepsy has the same abilities and intelligence as other children unless epilepsy has caused learning disabilities.
Behavioural issues in the child can be caused due to epilepsy and it is recommended to seek the help of an epilepsy counsellor to overcome these. Here are some tips.
While a child with epilepsy can enjoy most sports and games, it is best to take necessary precautions based on the seizures of the child and ensure adult supervision at all times.
How May Your Child Feel Due to Epilepsy?
A child whose seizures are difficult to control may experience loss of energy, fatigue and develop attention and behavioural issues. The social skills and learning abilities of the child may also get hampered causing him to have low self-esteem. Children with controlled seizures are also often prone to emotional difficulties and have issues with behaviour and learning. It is important for the family to provide ample support to their children in these aspects and to help them overcome these challenges.
Changes in Epileptic Seizures as a Child gets Older
Some children experience what is called a ‘spontaneous remission’ as they get older where their seizures cease and they outgrow epilepsy. Others may see a change in the frequency and type of their seizures. Children who have been taking anti-epileptic drugs may also turn seizure-free and be recommended to discontinue the medication.
Dos And Don’ts When Your Child Has an Epileptic Seizure
Epilepsy can be challenging to take care of and control and hence it is essential to prepare yourself to manage your child when he has a seizure. These are the dos and don’ts that can help you get through the episode:
Dos:
Lay your child on the floor carefully and remove any objects around him to prevent injury.
Turn the child on his side to prevent choking due to vomit or saliva.
Loosen any collar or tie around the neck to help with the breathing.
Track the duration of the seizure
Call the doctor after the seizure or if the seizure lasts longer than three minutes.
Stay with the child throughout the duration of the seizure.
Don’ts:
Do not panic.
Don’t try to stop the shaking or restrict the movement of the child’s body while he’s having a seizure, it may result in injuries or make him uncomfortable.
Don’t put anything in the child’s mouth as he may choke on it.
Don’t give the child food, medicine or fluids when he’s having a seizure to prevent choking.
Don’t force open the mouth during a tonic seizure as it may cause injury to your child or block his airways.
What is Ketogenic Diet and What it Includes?
A ketogenic diet is a high fat-low carb diet where about 90% of the calories come from fat. This fat is burned to make ketones, which is used as an alternate source of energy from the brain and heart functioning. It is important to limit carbohydrates in the diet very strictly, as it may hamper the progress of the diet.
Keto diet includes high-fat food items like butter, cheese, bacon, among others. You can also include the ground vegetables, meat, nuts and seeds, avocados, in addition to other high-fat foods.
How Long Can the Ketogenic Diet be Followed?
A ketogenic diet is usually prescribed for two years after which the child can be slowly transitioned back to a normal diet with the help of a dietician.
How to Prevent Epileptic Seizures in Your Child?
It is essential that you recognise triggers of seizures in your child and exercise caution to avoid these triggers.
Ensure that your child is rested well as sleep deprivation can be a cause of seizures.
Prevent injuries to the head with protective gears such as helmets when riding or using a skateboard.
Remind your child to walk and step with caution to prevent falls.
Avoid bright lights and loud noises as they may trigger seizures.
Do not miss giving anti-seizure medication to your child at the same time every day.
As stress may trigger seizures, teach your child some techniques to manage stress.
When to Consult the Doctor?
Consult your doctor immediately if,
The child has a seizure that lasts over three minutes. This is because the child may have entered a prolonged life-threatening seizure called status epilepticus.
The child is not breathing for more than 30 seconds
If a head injury resulted in a seizure because there may be damage to the brain during the process.
There is no response from the child for over an hour and if your child is confused, nauseous or has fever and vomiting.
Things to Remember
It is essential to keep these things in mind if your child is diagnosed with epilepsy:
Epilepsy can be confused with other conditions. Hence it is important to get an accurate diagnosis.
The extent and type of epilepsy seizures are different for different children. Always keep in mind the specifics of your child’s condition
Most seizures can be controlled with anti-epileptic drugs and the children can live a normal and healthy life.
Epilepsy in children differs from child to child and it is crucial to understand the specifications of your child’s condition thoroughly before administering treatment.
Also Read: Febrile Seizures in Kids Read more
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Nose Picking in Kids - How to Get Your Kid to Stop It?
As a child grows up, many parents start noticing weird habits or behavioural tendencies in their children. Some of them are pretty usual for kids of all ages, such as biting their nails, or sticking their fingers in the ear and smelling the wax and so on. But picking the nose seems to be the grossest of them all. A toddler picking nose is not a new thing but some kids do end up tasting their fingers after doing so. It could be simple curiosity or maybe a habit too difficult to throw off.
Is Nose Picking Normal In Children?
Picking the nose is absolutely normal. It is a tendency that every kid ends up doing and some adults do it as well. Our nose is extremely sensitive and any irritation that is felt in it needs to be rid of immediately. The quickest way is by using our fingers. Yes, our society deems it impolite to do this in public in front of others, but some children do end up crossing the line by eating the mucus that comes out of the nose. This is where things go from normal to absolutely gross.
Why Do Children Pick their Nose?
Many parents wonder why do kids pick their nose and eat it in the first place if the entire activity is so gross. Well, the definition of what’s acceptable and what’s gross might be established for adults, but kids are just kids. Many kids indulge in nose picking out of necessity as well as out of habit too.
Most kids pick their nose when there is an irritating element or too much mucus has started tickling them.
The nose does tend to feel dry at times and itch from within, causing the need to stick your finger in and cure the itch.
Parents might enforce the habit to clean the nose while bathing, which might end up kids doing it all the time.
At times, kids can get nervous and while some kids bite their nails, others might pick their nose.
The child could be simply bored and be picking your nose and playing with the mucus is quite interesting for them.
Involuntary. The act of picking the nose is so reflexive that your kid might not even be aware of it.
How Can You Stop Kids From Picking their Nose?
If the act of your kid picking his nose is getting to you, here are a few ways you can handle the situation.
1. Let It Go
He’s just a kid. Most kids tend to pick their nose and you don’t need to scold them every single time. Try telling him a couple of times and then just ignore it, making sure his fingers are clean at all times.
2. Get A Checkup
If the nose picking seems chronic and your child seems to be in pain or get immense relief after picking the nose, it could be a sign of an infection or some condition that is making your child uncomfortable. Get a doctor’s opinion when you can.
3. Keep Hands Occupied
Kids at this age are full of energy and feel the need to be occupied with some activity, even when they have nothing to do. Understanding when your child picks his nose can let you know if this is the case. In such a scenario, you can instill another habit in your child to keep the hands occupied. Giving him some chores or even teaching him the Rubik’s cube could help reduce the chances of him picking his nose.
4. Proactive Measures
Scolding your child is never the right way to stop his habit since he might be doing it unconsciously or at times, there truly might be some irritation in his nose. If it has turned into a habit, you can take corrective action by using tapes on his fingers so that they don’t enter the nose properly. Keep these acts restricted to home so that he isn’t embarrassed when he’s outside.
5. Accept the Act
When you catch your child picking his nose, sit in front of him and pick your own nose as well. When he starts laughing about it, let him understand how funny and weird it feels to see someone do it. Help him understand the need to do it and teach him ways to go to a private place and pick his nose without anybody seeing it.
6. Use a Handkerchief
If your child’s nose has a lot of mucus, picking the nose and having the mucus on the fingers can be very disgusting. Teach him to use a handkerchief to clean his nose and keep his hands clean.
7. Maintain Hydration
The presence of a dry nose can get quite irritating, resulting in the need to itch the inside of the nose. Let your child drink enough water throughout the day and keep well-hydrated levels in the body.
When To Worry?
If you spot your kid picking his nose and eating it, teach him to stop doing that as soon as you can. But if the picking of nose results in nosebleeds or your child seems to be in discomfort, it might be that he might have put an external object inside and is having trouble breathing. Contact your kid’s physician as soon as possible in case of serious situations.
Nose picking in preschoolers is quite rampant is not a cause to worry. Gradually, over the years, by observing others, your kid will get rid of the habit by himself and learn to clean his nose while bathing or in private. Don’t shame your kid for doing so and let him be a kid while he still can.
Also Read:
Know About Behavior Problems in 5 Year Old Kids
How to Deal with Bad Habits in Children?
List of Good Manners to Teach to Your Kid Read more
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Massage During Pregnancy - Important Precautions & Right Techniques
Pregnancy, without a doubt, can be one of the most stressful times of your life. Whether it is your first time or not, the stress levels endured by mothers-to-be do not reduce by much. In these trying times, care must be taken to ensure that you remain as stress-free as possible, in the circumstances. After all, stressful experiences are not good for the growing child.
One of the most common methods to alleviate stress-related problems is a good, long massage. Although massages can be done for any individual, it works great to help mothers too.
What is a Prenatal Massage?
A prenatal massage is not different in many ways to a regular massage. The aim of the action is to help the mother become relaxed, work out tension from muscles, reduce soreness and improve the flow of blood in the body. The actual body parts covered may range from foot massages in pregnancy, to head massages when pregnant. Prenatal massages are tailored to the common areas of soreness in mothers-to-be and customised towards the needs of pregnant women.
Prenatal massages must only be carried out by trainers certified in such massages, as there are some differences in the massage techniques and areas to focus on in the case of pregnancy massages. For example, pregnancy tends to weaken ligaments, which make them rather unstable, especially under the application of force. Also, certified trainers know the right spots most affected by the travails of pregnancy, and also have an idea of which areas to avoid.
When Can You Have a Massage?
Although it sounds harmless and it really is, there is a misconception that a prenatal massage at the start of the pregnancy is harmful to the formation of the foetus. As a result, many massage centres do not allow pregnancy massages for women in the first trimester of their pregnancy. However, it has been found that the massages do not affect the child, in any way. Most experts recommend getting these massages throughout the period of pregnancy, as they are beneficial. The usual schedule is to get one every two weeks up to the third trimester, and then, a massage every week.
Benefits of Massage During Pregnancy
Among the many benefits of a prenatal massage, a few are listed below.
Helps alleviate stress on the joints, which are always bearing the weight
Reduces stress in the muscles of the body, and the associated tendons and ligaments
Reduces many common discomforts which affect pregnant women, including back pain, foot pain, headaches, leg cramps and stiffness in the joints
Alleviates the risk of heartburn, fatigue, acid reflux, nasal congestion and hip joint pain in mothers
Improves blood circulation, which helps increase the strength of immunity and removal of toxins
Reduces the chances of depression, stress, and anxiety by restoring the hormonal balance in the body
Facilitates the release of endorphins in the body, which helps the mother sleep easily and feel more relaxed
Increases muscle tone and flexibility, which helps the mother carry the extra weight easily
Helps keep the blood pressure in the normal range and reduces the load on the heart
Improves the health of the skin, and the underlying tissues
Increases the blood flow to the uterus and placenta, to help the baby
Imparts a sedating effect on the nervous system, and facilitates easier delivery of the baby
Things to Do Before a Massage
The massage has to be done carefully since it has a direct effect on the health of the mother and baby. There are many things to note, depending upon whether the massage is done at home or in the clinic.
Massaging at Home:
While getting a massage in the comfort of your own home, you only need to remember to stay as relaxed as possible. Talk to your masseuse, and elaborate on the sore areas and the areas which do not need much care.
Massaging at the Clinic:
If you plan to get a massage from a certified practitioner at his clinic, you first need to get comfortable with the surroundings of the room. You need to have a talk with your practitioner too, and may even be asked to shed all clothing for the massage to happen smoothly.
How to Lie on the Massage Table When Pregnant?
Especially at the later stages of your pregnancy, you should never be lying on your back to get the massage. This can compress any of the blood vessels running through your back, and consequently, lower blood pressure. Usually, prenatal massages are done with the mother lying sideways, even if it is an oil massage during pregnancy. However, some tables have deep cut-outs in the belly area, which enable the mother to lie face down comfortably.
Are There Any Areas to be Avoided During a Massage?
There are not many areas to be avoided during the prenatal massage, except for a few spots in the ankles or palms, as they tend to cause contractions in the uterus. Therefore, it is best to get the opinion of a certified masseuse before proceeding with the prenatal massage.
Precautions for Prenatal Massage
The most important precaution to take is to clear the possibility of a massage with your doctor. Discuss any existing medical conditions, and ask your OB/GYN if you are in the right condition to be receiving the massage.
If you are getting the massage from your husband or friends, not an expert, make sure that they understand how an oil massage during pregnancy is different from a massage during normal times. Educational articles and Youtube videos will help greatly. As much as possible, try to have it done by an experienced practitioner itself.
Also, remember not to use any substances that you are allergic or averse to in the massage. This is supposed to be a relaxing affair, and more stress or discomfort will not help the mother in any way.
Pregnancy Massage at Home
The best place to get a massage, prenatal or not, is the comfort of your own home. However, there are a few things to note before carrying out the prenatal massage.
Right Techniques for the Massage
Back: The massage for the aching back must begin from the nape of the neck, and proceed down up to the hips, in a firm manner. Any pressure on the spine, however, must be avoided to prevent problems.
Buttocks: The bone at the base of the spine needs to be massaged softly, with fist and knuckles, while the tailbone area needs to be avoided.
Legs: Reducing the strain on the legs can be done by stroking the legs in a circular or sideways motion, starting from the foot and moving up to the buttocks.
Hands and Feet: Muscle soreness is usually not the problem here; fluid retention, which causes swelling, is the main cause of discomfort. The massage should increase blood circulation and should be done with the thumbs working towards the centre of the body.
Neck: The stress in the neck muscles can be eased by massaging the shoulders from a wide position using the thumbs
Tips for the Partner While Giving the Massage
The atmosphere plays a huge part in helping your wife relax, so make sure to dim the lighting and put on some scented candles!
Make sure that your wife is lying in a comfortable position, and use pillows to make her more comfortable.
If you plan to use any aromatherapy oil, ensure that it is safe to use during pregnancy, and diluted properly.
Use only gentle stroking movements on the body, since deep movements can cause pressure, especially in the abdomen area.
Finally, feedback from the mother is the most important aspects. Understand what makes her comfortable, while taking care not to stretch or pressure any uttering ligaments.
Alternatives to Prenatal Massage
There are not many alternatives to a proper prenatal massage, as it can have wonderful effects when it is carried out in the right way. However, some common massage-like practices. which can be practised as alternatives. include shiatsu techniques or the practice of acupuncture. Acupressure and foot reflexology are other alternatives, which have similar effects on the mother.
Is It Safe to Get Prenatal Massages Throughout the Entire Pregnancy?
While there have been a few reports of massage clinics not performing pregnancy massages on mothers in their first trimester out of the fear of miscarriage, it has been found that these fears do not have any scientific standing whatsoever. A pregnancy massage can be received throughout the duration of the pregnancy, with the ideal schedule being one every two weeks until the third trimester, and one every week from there on.
Can a Pregnant Woman Give a Massage to Herself?
Pregnant women may not always have people nearby, so they might have to rely on themselves for that massage they crave. However, there are many limitations associated with self-massaging, as there are many parts which are hard to reach on your own. While the feet and arms can be massaged well, it is difficult to reach the neck and back satisfactorily.
For a relaxing belly massage, sit against a couple of pillows on your bed, in such a way that your body is at a 45-degree angle, and stroke your belly in motions towards the heart (upwards). Apply lotion/oil as needed. You can also try a head massage with your favourite, calming essential oil. Simply rub your temples in a gentle, circular motion, trace along your eyebrows, and return to your temples. This head massage even works as a pre-bedtime ritual.
When to Avoid Massages?
Massages need to be avoided when you are experiencing nausea, morning sickness or bouts of vomiting.
Pregnant women with a high risk of miscarriage also need to avoid prenatal massages.
High-risk pregnant women, afflicted with placental abruption or preterm labour, also need to avoid pregnancy massages.
What to Expect After the Massage?
After the massage, women experience deep sleep and an overall relaxed feel. The improved blood circulation and reduction of muscle soreness also help them cope up with the increased weight better and makes them feel rejuvenated and refreshed for extended periods of time.
The pregnancy massage or prenatal massage can work wonders in making you feel more at ease, and comfortable. However, like with every action, massages too have to be done with care in the right way. Make sure you get a massage from a trained individual so that both you and your baby are able to benefit from it.
Also Read: A Quick Guide to Postnatal Massage Read more
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Mixed Vegetable Pakora
Enjoy these easy to make fritters on a rainy day and beat the dreary monsoon blahs. Sit on your window ledge with a plate of these yummy treats with a piping hot cup of tea and watch the monsoon; it is bye bye to Merryland! Your fussy kids would love these too!
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
4 People
10 - 15 Minutes
15 - 20 Minutes
Ingredients
1 big carrot
8 french beans
1 medium size potato
A quarter of a cabbage
1.5 cups besan
1/2 cup rice powder
1/2 tsp chilli powder
2 green chillies
Salt to taste
1 tsp ginger-garlic paste
Method
Step 1
Chop the vegetables into thick pieces and the beans into 1 inch pieces.
Step 2
In a bowl, mix besan with chopped green chillies, chilli powder, rice powder, ginger-garlic into a thick paste with little oil and water.
Step 3
The besan should merely coat the veggies and should not be runny.
Step 4
Heat oil in a deep pan on medium flame.
Step 5
Check if the oil is hot enough by dropping a little ball of the batter. If the batter bubbles and comes up to the top, the oil is ready.
Step 6
Now, drop the besan coated veggies into the pan slowly and fry on medium flame till the batter turns golden brown.
Step 7
Transfer to absorbent paper and later serve hot with chutneys of your choice.
Nutritional Information
Calories
260 K cal
Proteins
22.7 g
Fats
2.9 g
Carbohydrates
145.6 g
Cholesterol
3 mg
Sodium
89 mg
Potassium
657 mg
*For deep frying, add approximately 10 grams of fat per serving, at 9 K cal/gram of fat. Read more
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A. For weight loss diet is good in intermittent fasting a good and but if your body is loose or you feel you really do tighten up your body then gymming or yoga both the things are going to be very good both the things are going to be helpful in tightening up your body and muscles at the same time but it is time consuming we just have to have patience
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