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Loperamide In Pregnancy: Should You Consider Or Not?
Pregnancy is a tumultuous time of your life, your immune system is weak, and your body is almost always uncomfortable. This is also when your baby is being nourished so extreme care must be taken about what you consume. This includes medication. Some medication can be harmful to your baby. This is why you must take extreme care and be cautious about the meds you decide to consume to treat any condition you may face during pregnancy.
What Is Loperamide?
During a pregnancy, one of the most common conditions faced by a woman is problems with the stomach. On the one hand, you may face constipation, while on the other you may face a bout of diarrhoea. This is where loperamide comes in handy. Loperamide is a drug that is commonly known to combat diarrhoea and is known as an antidiarrhoeal.
Is Loperamide Safe In Pregnancy?
Loperamide during pregnancy should not be consumed unless prescribed, it acts as a last resort against an extremely bad case of diarrhoea, the consumption should also only be considered based on the period of gestation. Doctors believe there is little evidence to say loperamide and pregnancy problems are directly related to one another, it is still, however, considered a prescription priority drug, which means it should not be consumed, under any circumstances, without a physician’s approval.
How Does It Work?
Loperamide is a drug that functions by lowering your intestine’s activity. This gives the small intestine time to absorb more water and minerals resulting in firm, healthier looking stools. This is because when the intestine’s activity is lowered the bowel movements slow down, giving your small intestine the required gap it needs to create healthier stool.
When Does Gynaecologist Prescribe Loperamide For Pregnant Women?
Your OB/GYN may prescribe this medication under some circumstances even if you’re pregnant:
If you have chronic diarrhoea
If you are facing persistent gastrointestinal problems
You are diagnosed with IBS or irritable bowel syndrome
You are facing severe digestive issues
You have undergone a surgical procedure called ileostomy which is done to open up the belly
Your metabolism is impaired for any reason
How To Take It?
It is extremely important to note that medication, especially during pregnancy, should be approached with caution. Here are some tips on how to take medication during this time of your life:
Loperamide should always be taken orally, never attempt renal treatments by yourself.
Never exceed your prescribed dosage.
Consume the medication a half hour after eating.
Talk to your doctor before starting the medication and inform them about all other medication you are taking so there is no chance of one medicine reacting with the other.
Do not consume alcohol while on the medication.
Side Effects Of Taking Loperamide When Pregnant
Loperamide is a medication that can have some side effects and risks, these are because your body isn’t used to the medication yet. This should naturally correct itself once your body adapts to the medication. It is always a good idea to talk to your doctor about the pill before taking it. Some of the side effects are:
You may have dry mouth initially.
Nausea can be common with this medicine.
In some cases, you may feel dizzy.
You may experience some extra fatigue.
In case of an allergic reaction, you may see a rash on your skin.
In rare cases, your intestines may swell.
You may experience bouts of constipation.
We strongly recommend you talk to a doctor for in-depth information about side-effects and how to combat them.
What If You Were Already On Loperamide Before Pregnancy?
If you were on loperamide before you got pregnant, and still feel the need to use it, consult your doctor before doing so. It is recommended that you do not proceed with the medication without their approval. If during the medication cycle you begin to feel abnormal, consult an OB/GYN for more pregnancy-friendly drugs.
Precautions To Take While Taking Loperamide
It is important to remember to avoid any risk of danger to you, your partner or your baby, that some precautions are taken before you consume loperamide, also known as Imodium, during pregnancy.
Never take the pill beyond the prescribed dose.
Consult your doctor during the course of the medication.
Do not self-medicate.
If you feel abnormal during the consumption of the medication, talk to your physician.
Don’t compensate for the side effects of loperamide with other medicines.
If doctors prescribe the drug – do not panic; Imodium, during pregnancy, can be prescribed if doctors feel that the problem cannot be cured without the same.
FAQs
Here are some frequently asked questions about Loperamide
Can Taking Loperamide Cause Birth Defects In Baby?
It’s unsure, there is not enough scientific evidence to argue for or against birth defects in children caused by loperamide. It is commonly assumed that in limited doses and under the care of a doctor, loperamide will not harm your child.
Can Taking Imodium Cause Miscarriage
There is no direct evidence that Imodium or loperamide can cause miscarriage. This could be caused by numerous other entities and considerations. It is best to consult your doctor before beginning the course of any medicament and keeping them in the loop when you are on the medicine so they can act quickly to possibly avoid the worse-case scenario.
Preterm Birth
Although there is no direct link between the pill and preterm birth, constipation and fevers are side effects of this drug and are also known causes for premature deliveries. Do not panic, however. If a doctor prescribes this remedy, chances are they have tested, and you can be assured it won't be a risk for you or your baby.
Still Birth or Low Birth Weight?
Much like miscarriages, there is no direct evidence linking the weight of the baby or a still birth delivery and loperamide. If you fear that the treatment might cause any such harm, it is always best to communicate this to your doctor.
Can Taking Loperamide Cause Learning Or Behavioural Problems In My Child?
No, there is no link between learning or behavioural problems and loperamide, it is commonly assumed that the two are not interlinked.
Is There Any Risk To My Baby If The Father Has Taken Imodium?
The research done on this is extremely limited. The results imply that there is little to no risk to your baby if their father has taken Imodium.
It is important to not self-medicate. Please talk to your doctor and if this medication is prescribed, please follow the dosage and consumption instruction provided by the doctor. If you face any side effects of loperamide, contact your primary health care physician immediately, and stop the medication till they examine you and provide further medical assistance.
Also read: Consumption of Fenugreek (Methi) Seeds During Pregnancy
Betnesol Injection During Pregnancy Read more
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8 Medical Tests You Should Do in Your 20s and 30s
Our 20s & 30s can be tricky! It is a phase when we have our hands full; looking for a new job, a better house, a decent pay are all that we have in mind, and double all that if you’re a parent! It’s an age where there are so many responsibilities piled up, that visiting a doctor for the minutest of reasons can easily skip the mind. Amidst all these responsibilities, you might think that 'chai' is well-suited for your headache instead of a fifteen-minute drive to the doctor’s clinic!
Well, think again! You never know, something that small or seemingly harmless can be an early symptom of something far worse! Early diagnosis is the key to saving time and money in the future, not to mention your health! If you’re in your 20s or 30s, you’re at the right age to get these medical tests to ensure that there is nothing unusual cooking in your body! Note that this article is not to induce fear, but to generate awareness about various health issues that men and women encounter and the importance of their early diagnosis.
Medical Tests For Men And Women in Their 20s & 30s
Here is a list of medical tests that you should definitely be scheduling in your 20s & 30s!
1. Pap Smear Test
Also known as ‘Pap Test’, this is a screening procedure for cervical cancer. The cervix is the opening of the uterus, and this test is to examine the presence of precancerous or cancer cells on the cervix. The American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology recommends that sexually active women should start getting regular pap smears from the age of 21. Cervical cancer is an increasing cause of concern, especially in India, which is why women must get this test at least once every three years.
2. Mammogram
Mammography or mammogram is crucial for the early diagnosis of breast cancer. It is a screening tool used to detect and diagnose breast cancer through low-energy X-rays of the breasts. According to the National Cancer Institute, breast cancer is the second most common cancer in women, second only to skin cancer. Women in their late 20s and early 30s should make it a point to get this test done at least once every two years. Get mammography done even if your body displays no signs or symptoms of breast cancer. That’s the whole idea of early diagnosis.
3. Lipid Profile Test
A lipid profile test is a combination of experiments conducted to determine the health of the heart. It is performed to check for risks of coronary heart diseases, or as a preventive measure to assess the risks depending on factors like eating habits, diet, stress, exercise and lifestyle. Lipids are fatty substances stored in the blood and tissues of the body. Even though they help keep the body functioning normally, lipid disorders like high cholesterol might cause life-threatening conditions like strokes and heart attacks. Adults who smoke, follow an unhealthy diet, are overweight or avoid working out should get their lipid profile tested.
4. Blood Sugar Test
As the name suggests, a blood sugar test is done to examine the amount of sugar (glucose) in the blood. This test is essential to monitor and manage diabetes. Blood sugar testing must be done regularly, because there is a limited range of blood sugar level in which the brain can function normally. Also, when addressed at the right time, controlling the amount of sugar in your blood can help you avoid serious health complications like eye diseases, kidney problems, nerve problems, cerebrovascular diseases such as strokes, and cardiovascular diseases such as heart attacks, heart failure and high blood pressure. You can use a glucometer to test blood sugar at home.
5. Urinalysis
Urinalysis is a standard test of your urine to detect and manage a wide range of disorders, including kidney diseases, urinary tract infections and diabetes. Doctors examine the appearance, concentration and content of the urine, as abnormal results can point towards a particular illness. In order to check your overall health, urinalysis is recommended as part of your routine medical checkup. Your 20s and 30s are ideal for getting this test. Apart from pointing (or ruling) out health complications, a sample of your urine can help in pregnancy testing and drug screening.
6. Skin Cancer Screening
Skin cancer is ever-increasing, and statistics state that it is one of the most common types of cancer across the world. To be on the safe side, it is best to keep your dermatologist on speed-dial. Frequent screenings can help detect parts of the skin that are precancerous or might develop cancer someday. Early diagnosis is the key to saving yourself from this wide-spreading disease, so, make skin cancer screening an essential part of your to-do list! It may be the most common kind of cancer, but it becomes a lot easier to treat when diagnosed early.
7. Eye Examination
You might not realise this, but your average screen time has likely increased in the past few years. It is the little things, really - continually scrolling through the apps on your phone, staying glued to your system at work, or endlessly staring at the television. All these factors can take a severe toll on your eyes and can potentially affect your vision in the future, which is why this is the right time to get your eyes tested. An eye examination is a series of tests assessing vision and the ability to focus on and discern objects. Unless you want to spend your late life behind a pair of round, thick pair of glasses, it is best to get an early diagnosis and maintain your eye health. And it’s not just about glasses; routine eye screenings can detect serious health conditions like high cholesterol, high blood pressure, diabetes, and ever cancer!
8. Dental Examination
Oral hygiene is the most neglected, yet, an essential part of our health. As we grow older, our teeth and gums start acting out. Tooth decay, bad breath, stained teeth and gum diseases start taking root, and if not addressed at the right time, your dentist might have to start pulling out these teeth in the near future. So if you’re not looking at spending the last years of your life with a pair of artificial retainers, it’s crucial that you prioritise your dental health and set up routine appointments with your child dentist in your 20s! To keep your gums and teeth healthy, you can also ask your dentist for additional tips on maintaining your oral hygiene.
So there you have it - a list of appointments that you should be scheduling in the coming months! Irrespective of whether you’re a man or a woman, if you’re in your 20s or 30s, make it a point to get your body medically examined on a regular basis. It’s never too late! If you’re gifted with good health, treasure it and do everything in your power to maintain that state. Eat clean, sweat it out, and follow a balanced lifestyle!
Also Read:
Health Problems Women in Their 30’s Should Be Aware Of
Essential Health Screenings for Women
Effective Health Benefits of Panchakarma Read more
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Gazpacho with Zucchini, Garlic and Turmeric
This gazpacho is creamy and silky, without any cream. Little butter or olive oil and coconut milk do this magic. Fresh or mature zucchinis can be used for making this soup. In case, you are using a mature one, don't forget to peel the zucchini for a sweeter soup.
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
4 People
15 Minutes
10 Minutes
Ingredients
5-6 zucchini, trimmed and chopped
3 1/2 cups animal (beef, chicken or veggie) stock
1/2 cup organic coconut milk
1 cup chopped onions
1 tsp (teaspoon) minced garlic
1 tbsp (tablespoon) coconut oil
1 tsp apple cider vinegar
2 tsp curry or turmeric powder
1/2 tsp pink salt
Pinch of black pepper
Pinch of cayenne pepper
Chopped cilantro for garnishing
Method
Step 1
In a medium pot, heat olive oil over medium to high heat.
Step 2
Add the onions and garlic and saute until soft, roughly takes about 3 minutes.
Step 3
Add the curry and/or turmeric powder, salt, and cayenne pepper. Stir and cook until fragrant, about 30 seconds.
Step 4
Add the zucchini and on medium heat, cook with occasional stirring, until soft, 5 to 6 minutes.
Step 5
Add vegetable stock and allow it to boil.
Step 6
On low flame simmer until the zucchini is very tender, about 20 minutes. Turn off the flame.
Step 7
In a food processor or with a hand-held immersion blender, puree the soup. You may need to do it in batches, if using a processor.
Step 8
Return to medium heat and pour in the coconut milk; stir.
Step 9
Simmer for 3 minutes. Adjust the seasoning, to taste.
Step 10
Serve garnished with the cilantro if preferred hot.
Step 11
If serving cold, simply refrigerate for 4-6 hours, until well chilled.
Nutritional Information
Serving Size 175.2 g
Calories
44
Calories from Fat
4
Total Fat
0.4g1%
Saturated Fat
0.1g1%
Sodium
68mg3%
Potassium
421mg12%
Total Carbohydrates
9.6g3%
Dietary Fiber
2.1g8%
Sugars
4.8g
Protein
2.1g
Vitamin A
18%
Vitamin C
71%
Calcium
3%
Iron
4%
* Based on a 2000 calorie diet.
Nutritional details are an estimate and should only be used as a guide for approximation.
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Family Plays an Important Role When You Are Planning Pregnancy
I am working in a multinational organisation, and my work demands a lot of commitment during and even after working hours. I feel I am an ambitious woman and that was the primary reason for my delayed pregnancy. I was sure that I would never be able to handle home and work together.
There was constant pressure from my family, and they were trying there best giving all justifications related to age, the joy of life, my responsibility as a wife and daughter to make me understand that it is high time to plan a baby. So I decided to get my doubts cleared and met my doctor asking how important the age factor is and whether I shall plan pregnancy soon or I still have time. I am 33 and l was knowing what my doctor is going to suggest and yes she asked me to plan it as soon as possible. So here I was all scared and happy at the same time that now the time has come, I can’t delay it any further.
I got pregnant, and my pregnancy was quite stable with minimum health challenges.
I was blessed with a beautiful angel, and currently, I am on my maternity leave.
Trust me it was tough, keeping track of baby’s feed time, nap time, poop time was seriously not an easy task, but my family helped me in every step. From holding the baby to giving her a massage or bath or teaching her to say funny words, my family has done everything for me, and this tough task has become of so much joy.
I am enjoying every day of motherhood, and I have plans on how I will join office back. My mom and mom in law both are in full support, and they have assured me that they are going to take care of the baby which is such a relief as I never wanted to hand over my baby to maids.
Yes, family plays a significant role when it comes to supporting such decisions, and they help in making you successfully deliver the best results all the time.
I am so grateful to have such a supportive husband and parents, and I am sure that my little angel is going to grow and learn all good habits from there grandma and grandpa ??
Disclaimer: The views, opinions and positions (including content in any form) expressed within this post are those of the author alone. The accuracy, completeness and validity of any statements made within this article are not guaranteed. We accept no liability for any errors, omissions or representations. The responsibility for intellectual property rights of this content rests with the author and any liability with regards to infringement of intellectual property rights remains with him/her. Read more
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Dr Disha Patel has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 6 months
16 hours ago
Q. can I take medicine pcm n citrazene in pregnancy fir sore throats n fever
Dr Disha Patel
Ayurvedic Physician
11 hours ago
A. dear mom.
better to take tab pcm for time being n do take steam inhakation couple of tines a day, follpw good home renedies for cold, taje more rest .
Swati Kar Samanta has added a new answer
Mom of a 9 m old child
9 hours ago
Q. hi everyone good morning,
sorghum can I give to my 10 month baby is it safe or not please revert I waiting for your reply
Swati Kar Samanta
Mom of a 2 m old girl
8 hours ago
A. Yes but first give in very small quantity to judge the reaction of your baby.
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due this month
7 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts is it okay that the baby is kicking less than usual?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
7 hours ago
A. Yes it is the what part is that your child is kicking if you feel that there is a movement of your child whether it is a cake or slight movement also you know that your child is doing fine so there is no problem in that if the movement is less it’s completely alright
Dr Sameer awadhiya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
7 hours ago
Q. #asktheexperts what to do if the baby’s nose is blovked
Dr Sameer awadhiya
Paediatrician
7 hours ago
A. Nasal blockage is very common, specially in small children because of the narrow nasal cavity. Any kind of saline drops like nasal clear will be helpful in dissolving the stuffy secretions, which can be taken out by vnasal aspirator gently also steam inhalation will be helpful also, try to avoid keeping the child directly under the fan.
Ankita Mehta has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
4 hours ago
Q. 22 week pregnant,baby konse month me or din me kitni baar move kartaa he ,pls bataye abhi sirf 2, 3 baar hi hota he
Ankita Mehta
Mom of a 8 yr 7 m old girl
2 hours ago
A. hi
yes it's enough
and the frequency and timing may vary as we all are different
but yes, the frequency of feeling baby movements will increase now
please go for regular check-up to your gynecologist
and follow his or her suggestions
Rashmi has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
3 hours ago
Q. hi
need help and advice
my RT 18x16mm and LT 10x16mm ET 6.59
and did ovulation rest also showing fertility test C as if now , pls advice if we intercourse tomorrow then when will be my ovulation start.
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
3 hours ago
A. You can check with an ovulation kit if it is positive then you can certainly go ahead with the conception because ovulation kit is going to give you 100% clarity whether you are ovulating or not with that you can try practising if you can conceive the same time
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