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16 Simple & Reliable Homemade (DIY) Pregnancy Tests
Home methods to check pregnancy were used before the modern pregnancy test kits were invented. People living in medieval times had no access to commercially available pregnancy testing kits and were forced to rely on primitive methods.
A lot of these natural pregnancy tests are still very useful, as they are easy to do with the help of several things readily available at home. Read on to learn the various home remedies for pregnancy test.
Benefits of Natural Pregnancy Tests
There are some obvious and not-so-obvious benefits to a natural pregnancy test. Below are some of the benefits of natural ways to test pregnancy:
A natural pregnancy test is useful in the event of an unplanned pregnancy as it is quick.
Natural pregnancy tests save you the embarrassment of asking for pregnancy test kits on a store counter.
These tests allow you to keep your possible pregnancy a secret.
These tests can be done using things readily available at home.
Natural pregnancy tests are cheaper as compared to
You do not need to worry about the shelf life ofnatural pregnancy tests.
How To Check Pregnancy at Home?
Visiting a doctor is the most reliable way to check for pregnancy. If that option is not accessible, there are various ways to check for pregnancy via a DIY pregnancy test.
Most DIY pregnancy tests analyse your urine. Make sure you collect the urine as soon as you wake up in the morning, as it is most concentrated then and will give accurate results. Drink plenty of water and wait till your bladder feels full before collecting.
Note that the collected sample should be of sufficient quantity if you feel the need to repeat the test.
16 Best Pregnancy Test You Can Perform at Home
Given below are 15 DIY natural pregnancy tests that can be easily done at home with readily available ingredients.
1. Sugar Pregnancy Test
Sugar has been used to test for pregnancy from time immemorial and is the most common natural pregnancy testamong women.
What You Need:
A clean bowl
One tablespoon of sugar
A sample of urine collected as soon as you wake up in the morning
Method:
Take one tablespoon of sugar in the bowl and pour the collected urine sample on the sugar. Now wait and watch.
Positive Sign:
The urine of a pregnant women contains the hormone hCG (Human chorionic gonadotropin). This hormone prevents sugar from dissolving.If you notice that the sugar does not readily dissolve but form clumps instead, it is a clear sign of pregnancy.
Negative Sign :
If the sugar readily dissolves in the urine, it means that the urine does not contain hCG and therefore, you’re not pregnant.
Caution :
This test is relatively harmless, and no special safety measures and protocols need to be followed.
2. Toothpaste Pregnancy Test
Toothpaste is a relatively modern ingredient for natural pregnancy tests as it wasn’t around centuries ago. Only white toothpaste is preferred as additional ingredients in coloured toothpaste may interfere with the results.
What You Need:
A clean bowl
Two tablespoons of toothpaste
A sample of urine collected as soon as you wake up in the morning
Method:
Take two tablespoons of toothpaste in the bowl, add a tablespoon of the collected urine sample. Wait and observe.
Positive Sign:
In case of pregnancy, the toothpaste will react with the urine to become blue in colour. It may also turn frothy.
Negative Sign:
In case of negative pregnancy, the toothpaste would not react with the urine at all.
Caution:
While this test is useful and can be easily done at home, there are certain drawbacks. For one, there are no prescribed guidelines on how much urine needs to be added to the toothpaste. Secondly, the time it takes for the reaction to happen can vary.
3. Soap Pregnancy Test
This is a very useful test and can be easily done at home. Almost any soap can be used for this test regardless of make, colour or addition of fragrance.
What You Need:
A clean bowl
A bar of soap
A sample of urine collected as soon as you wake up in the morning
Method:
Place the soap in the bowl, pour two tablespoons of urine on the soap and observe.
Positive Sign:
If the soap froths and bubbles appear, then it is likely that you are pregnant.
Negative Sign:
If there is no pregnancy, there would be no reaction between the soap and urine sample.
Caution:
None
4. Mustard Powder Pregnancy Test
In the event that you have missed your periods and suspect that pregnancy could be the case, then you should consider the mustard powder test for pregnancy. Mustard powder is known to induce periods.
What You Need:
A bathtub full of warm water
½ – ¾ cup of mustard powder
Method:
Add mustard powder to the warm water in the bathtub, and immerse yourself in it for twenty to twenty-five minutes. Wash yourself and wait for two to three days.
Positive Sign:
Since mustard assists in inducing periods, you should have your periods in two to three days. If the periods don’t kick in, then it’s likely that you’re pregnant.
Negative Sign:
The onset of periods within three days of this test would indicate that your periods were delayed for reasons other than pregnancy.
Caution:
None
5. Shampoo Pregnancy Test
This test is just as convenient as the toothpaste and soap pregnancy test. It requires no specialised tools and the results can be observed instantly.
What You Need:
A clean bowl
Two drops of shampoo
Water
A sample of urine collected as soon as you wake up in the morning
Method:
Put two drops of shampoo in a clean bowl, add some water to form a soapy solution, and whisk gently to avoid foaming. Now add a few drops of the collected urine and observe.
Positive Sign:
If the shampoo solution begins to froth or forms bubbles, it is a sign that you may be pregnant.
Negative Sign:
If there is no reaction, you can safely assume that you are not pregnant.
Caution:
Mixing shampoo and water to form a soapy solution without frothing is tricky as the presence of froth can interfere with the results.
[Also Read: Pregnancy Test with Shampoo]
6. Dettol Pregnancy Test
Dettol is a commercially available mild antiseptic for treating minor cuts and bruises at home. This product may also be used to conduct a natural pregnancy test. Here’s how.
What You Need:
A clean glass
One tablespoon of Dettol
A sample of urine collected as soon as you wake up in the morning
Method:
Pour one tablespoon of Dettol into the glass, add 3 tablespoons of urine such that Dettol and urine are in the ratio of 1:3.. Sit back and observe for five to seven minutes.
Positive Sign:
If the urine separates from the Dettol to form a separate layer on top, it means you are pregnant.
Negative Sign:
If the solution mixes and does not separate, then the result is negative i.e. there is no pregnancy.
Caution:
None
7. Salt Pregnancy Test
Table salt is also a very effective substance for a natural pregnancy test. Its main advantage lies in the fact that it is one of the cheapest and reliable tests.
What You Need:
A clean glass
A pinch or two of salt
A sample of urine collected as soon as you wake up in the morning
Method:
Pour some urine sample into the glass, add a pinch or two of salt, and observe for at least three minutes.
Positive Sign:
If the salt reacts with the urine, you will observe creamy white clumps being formed; this is a definite sign of pregnancy.
Negative Sign:
If there is no reaction whatsoever, the result is negative.
Caution:
None
[Also Read: Pregnancy Test with Salt]
8. Vinegar Pregnancy Test
Vinegar is a form of acid that is dilute and an important ingredient used in Chinese cuisine. Vinegar can also be used to test for pregnancy naturally. You can use plain white vinegar which is low priced and readily available in any grocery store.
What You Need:
A clean glass
White vinegar
A sample of urine collected as soon as you wake up in the morning
Method:
Pour some vinegar into the glass and add the urine sample to it. Let the solution sit for 5 minutes and observe the results.
Positive Sign:
Any change in the colour of vinegar is an indication of pregnancy.
Negative Sign:
If there is no visible change in the colour, it means there’s no pregnancy.
Caution:
Add the urine sample slowly to the vinegar to avoid frothing. Bubbles and frothing would affect the accuracy of the test.
[Also Read: Vinegar Pregnancy Test]
9. Pine-Sol Pregnancy Test
Pine-sol is a common household antimicrobial agent. It is made from needle-like leaves and other parts of the pine tree and is golden brown in colour. A pine-sol pregnancy test is considered very accurate and therefore, popular.
What You Need:
A clean glass
Pine-sol
A sample of urine collected as soon as you wake up in the morning
Method:
Pour some pine-sol into the glass, add the urine sample and observe.
Positive Sign:
In the event of a pregnancy, the pine-sol will change to a bluish -green colour.
Negative Sign:
No change in colour means that you are not pregnant.
Caution:
Pine-sol is available with fragrance. For this test, unscented, regular golden-brown pine-sol should be used.
10. Wheat & Barley Pregnancy Test
An ancient recipe holds that wheat and barley seeds germinate three times fasterina pregnant woman’s urine than water.
What You Need:
A bowl
Wheat and barley seeds
A sample of urine collected as soon as you wake up in the morning
Method:
Put some wheat and barley seeds in a bowl, add the urine sample and wait for a couple of days.
Positive Sign:
If the seeds germinate in a couple of days, you could be pregnant.
Negative Sign:
No germination of seeds means no pregnancy.
Caution:
None
11. Dandelion Leaves Pregnancy Test
If you have a dandelion plant in your backyard, you can use its leaves to test for pregnancy. Pregnancy tests using dandelion leaves are considered extremely accurate and have been popular throughout the ages.
What You Need:
A plastic sheet
Dandelion leaves
A sample of urine collected as soon as you wake up in the morning
Method:
Place the dandelion leaves on the plastic sheet such that it is away from direct sunlight. Now pour the urine sample on the leaves so that they are completely soaked. Observe the mix for ten minutes.
Positive Sign:
If the dandelion leaves turn reddish brown or form bubbles, then it is a sign of pregnancy.
Negative Sign:
If there are no visible changes to the leaves, then you may not be pregnant.
Caution:
Only use freshly plucked leaves as older leaves may affect the accuracy of this test.
12. Bleaching Powder Pregnancy Test
Bleaching powder is also an effective substance you can use to test for pregnancy. The advantage of bleaching powder is that the results can be observed quickly.
What You Need:
A clean glass
Bleaching powder
A sample of urine collected as soon as you wake up in the morning
Method:
Add bleaching powder to the glass, pour the urine sample intoit and observe.
Positive Sign:
If there is an immediate reaction with a fizzing sound and lots of bubbles and frothing, it is a strong indication of pregnancy.
Negative Sign:
If the solution settles down with no bubbles then there is no pregnancy.
Caution:
Fumes produced by the reaction of urine and bleaching powder are toxic, so keep your distance to avoid inhalation.
[Also Read: Bleach Pregnancy Test]
13. Baking Soda Pregnancy Test
Baking soda or sodium bicarbonate is an ingredient that is particularly useful for making leavened bread. As incredible as it is for baking, baking soda can also be used to test for pregnancy at home.
What You Need:
A clean bowl
Baking soda
A sample of urine collected as soon as you wake up in the morning
Method:
Put some baking soda in a bowl, pour the urine sample over it and observe.
Positive Sign:
If there is a reaction with bubbles and fizz, then you are pregnant.
Negative Sign:
If there are very few bubbles, then there is no pregnancy.
Caution:
This test is relatively safe and the reaction of baking soda with urine will not produce any fumes or harmful gases.
[Also Read: Pregnancy Test with Baking Soda]
14. Storing Urine Pregnancy Test
The urine in a jar test is the most commonly used test throughout history. You can predict whether you’re pregnant by just storing and observing your urine.
What You Need:
A clean glass jar
A sample of urine collected as soon as you wake up in the morning
Method:
Collect a sample of urine in a glass jar and let it stand for a day.
Positive Sign:
If you observe a thin film or layer on the surface of the sample after a period of twenty-four hours, then there is a strong likelihood of pregnancy.
Negative Sign:
If there is no such layer, then you are not pregnant.
Caution:
It is a safe test and does not require any safety protocols to be followed.
15. Tuna Juice & Vinegar Pregnancy Test
Considered to be one of the most accurate do-it-yourself tests at home, the tuna and vinegar pregnancy test has the highest probability of yielding accurate results.
What You Need:
A clean glass jar
White vinegar
Canned tuna
A sample of urine collected as soon as you wake up in the morning
Method:
Strain some juice out of the canned tuna into a glass jar, and add an equal amount of white vinegar. Mix and let it sit for a day at room temperature. On the next day, add the urinesample to it.
Positive Sign:
If the mix turns dark green, it indicates that you are pregnant.
Negative Sign:
Yellow colour would indicate that you are not pregnant.
Caution:
None
16. Wine Pregnancy Test
Did you know that you can also use wine to test for conception?
What You Need:
Wine
A sample of urine collected as soon as you wake up in the morning
Method:
Take half a cup of each of wine and urine and mix them. Wait and observe.
Positive Sign:
If the colour of the wine changes, it is a sign of pregnancy.
Negative Sign:
If there’s no change in colour, you may not be carrying a baby.
Caution:
None
Tips To Increase The Accuracy Of Homemade Pregnancy Test
In general, DIY pregnancy tests are a good way to determine the presence of hCG in the urine. To enhance the accuracy of the tests, certain precautions need to be kept in mind.
All bowls, jars, cups or any other utensils used for these tests should be clean and free from germs.
The sample of urine collected for the test should be the first urine that you pass in the morning. That’s because the first urine has a greater concentration of the hormone hCG which is crucial for accuracy.
Ideally, the test should be done in the morning, as soon as you wake up.
Drink enough water the previous night to ensure that you have sufficient urine to conduct multiple tests, if necessary.
Some tests may take longer to show a reaction.
Use a plastic container and spatula to maintain hygeine during the test. Avoid metal containers as they may interact with chemical ingredients to reduce accuracy of the result. Use disposable containers for tests that require the use of bleach and pine sol.
Don’t shake or disturb the sample while you wait for a reaction to happen.
Are These Tests 100% Accurate?
The simple answer is no! DIY pregnancy tests are never 100% accurate. Though these tests are similar to commercially available pregnancy testing kits, the results could be inaccurate for various reasons.
Some of the reasons are that there are no clear guidelines for these tests. Some tests don’t mention in the ratio in which the ingredients should be added. Furthermore, the quantity and quality of ingredients could delay the time taken for a reaction.
DIY pregnancy tests should always be followed by a visit to the doctor, regardless of the results.
When Should You Take a Homemade Pregnancy Test?
If you’re wondering when you should take a DIY pregnancy test, we have the answer! As missed periods are a reliable sign of conception, you can use these tests a day or two after your missed period date. Some signs you can also look out for before taking the above-mentioned tests are nausea, vomiting, tender and sore breasts, frequent urination, fatigue and bloating.
These tests are very useful if you want to keep your pregnancy a secret. Natural pregnancy tests conducted at home, however, can be very useful to deal with the anxiety that an unplanned pregnancy can cause. The ease of conducting these tests and the ready availability of ingredients makes them very convenient for women who wish to know whether there’s good news.
Also Read:
When to Take a Pregnancy Test?
How to Confirm Pregnancy at Home
Digital Pregnancy Test: How it Works?
Easy Ways to Confirm Pregnancy Without Doing a Test Read more
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How to Handle your Baby Crying at Night
Having a baby is a life-altering event; we’re sure you’re aware that raising your little one is no piece of cake. Apart from feeding schedules, nap requirements, and vaccination schedules, one thing you will have to deal with a lot is your baby crying. It is through crying that babies communicate their needs and initially, it can be tricky to interpret what your little one is trying to tell you. But don’t worry - there are different ways to deal with the situation, depending on what works best for your baby.
Why Do Babies Cry at Night?
It is expected of a newborn baby to be crying all night, and frequently. But these episodes should become less frequent as the baby gets older. Here are some common reasons why babies cry at night:
1. Feeling Hungry
Babies have tiny stomachs and need to feed quite frequently during the first few months. Most babies will have to be fed every two to three hours. Watch out for signs of hunger, such as the baby putting his hands into his mouth, fussing, and smacking his lips. Starting the feed before your baby begins crying will help you have a peaceful night.
2. Experiencing Discomfort Due to Gas Troubles
Babies are prone to having gas troubles and may need to be burped or pass gas to feel relieved. Your baby might swallow air when breastfeeding or sucking from a bottle, and burping soon after a feed can provide him with relief. Placing your baby down on his tummy and gently massaging his back can also prove helpful.
3. Having a Dirty or Wet Diaper
Some babies can tolerate a wet or dirty diaper for a short time while others may need a change immediately. Putting on a fresh diaper will help the baby go back to sleep again quickly. However, ensure that you change the diaper quickly and don't interact much with your baby while doing so, so he can be soothed back to sleep.
4. Needing Reassurance
Being alone in the dark can be a scary thing for your baby. He might cry out loud for attention, and to be reassured that you’re right there beside him.
5. Feeling Cold
Your baby is likely to cry if he’s feeling too cold. Swaddling him in light layers can help him keep warm and provide him comfort. However, ensure that you’re not wrapping him in heavy layers, as this poses the risk of SIDS.
6. Experiencing Teething Troubles
If your baby seems to be crying at night for no reason, check to see if teething could be the culprit. Teething pains can start from as early as four months and can cause babies to drool excessively and chew on everything they get their hands on. If your little one is about to or has already started teething, massaging the gums gently or offering baby teethers, especially ones that have been refrigerated, can reduce his irritation.
7. Being Too Stimulated
Taking your baby to a social event or out on a shopping trip can sometimes prove to be too exciting for him. The sensory overload can prove to be too much, especially if you’re putting him to sleep immediately after the experience is over (eg: reaching home right before your baby’s bedtime or if he falls asleep on the way home), and this can result in him crying into the night. Placing the baby in a familiar setting and then easing him into his bedtime routine can help tackle this problem.
8. Feeling Ill
Feeling sick, tired, and fatigued can make even adults want to cry! If your baby is crying more than usual or sounds different, then it might be due to some illness. Check to see whether your baby has any other symptoms like a fever, cough, vomiting, or a loss of appetite, to name a few. Consult your doctor if this appears to be the reason.
How Long Does the Crying Last?
Early intervention can nip the problem in the bud and ensure you and your baby have peaceful nights. By resorting to appropriate methods of dealing with the crying, you can bring about changes in your baby’s behaviour in as little as two weeks. But this task gets more difficult as your baby grows older. Children aged one year or older are likely to fight off going to bed, even when they are sleepy and exhausted. They can cry for hours, protesting at the changes brought about in their schedule. If you do not take remedial measures when your child is an infant, the crying can last up until three or four years of age.
When Should Your Baby Be Able to Sleep Through the Night?
Babies under the age of two months are likely to awaken at least two times every night to be fed. After two months and up to four months of age, this comes down to one feed per night. After four months, formula-fed babies can sleep through the night for about seven hours straight. Breastfed babies should be able to get through seven hours without waking up for feeds by at least five months of age. This holds true for all normal babies of this age group; they should be able to fall asleep and stay that way without being held or rocked during the night.
Can You Comfort Your Baby if He Cries at Night?
There are two schools of thought on this topic. One belief is that babies will stop crying at night for no reason once they realize that no one responds. The other school of thought is that every time a baby cries, he should be held and comforted; that a baby should not be left alone for any reason. It is up to you to decide which way you want to go after weighing the pros and cons of each.
Would it Hurt Your Baby if You Leave Him Crying?
It is believed that letting a baby cry on his own can prove harmful to his physical and mental growth in the long term. But there is no evidence to support this claim. However, most of the sleep-training methods suggest that parents should stop responding instantaneously to every little cry of their child. But this also involves severing a connection between the parent and child. Some researchers opine that a sleep training method which involves letting a child cry for any period of time is likely to adversely impact the child’s physical, emotional, social, and behavioural growth due to interruptions in the natural biological cycle of the infant.
How to Calm Your Crying Baby at Night
If your baby wakes up crying at night despite all his needs being met, it is likely that he has made it a habit. Here are some ways in which you can help your child (over four months of age) calm down and sleep through the night:
Put your baby in the crib or on the bed when he’s drowsy but still awake. Be certain to place your child in the crib at this point even if his bedtime ritual has not been completed. The baby’s last waking memory has to be of the bed or crib, and not of you. This will encourage him to go back to sleep on his own when he wakes up in the middle of the night.
If your baby refuses to stop crying at bedtime, keep visiting him at intervals of five to fifteen minutes. You can keep increasing the duration between visits. However, do not let the baby get too upset; if he seems extremely fussy or afraid, hold him till he calms down. You can sit in the room for a few moments till he calms down, but try to leave before he falls asleep.
Don’t take your child out of the crib or bed once you have tucked him in for the night. Rocking your baby until he falls asleep or bringing him into your bed for a while will defeat the purpose of this exercise.
Introduce your baby to a security object such as a soft toy or a blanket if your baby is six months or older. This will be of comfort to your baby when he wakes up at night and he will soon be happy cuddling this object instead of you at night.
Some other things that you can try to ensure a regular sleep schedule for your child are:
Restricting the baby’s naps to two hours or less and limiting it to only two naps a day.
Avoiding changing wet diapers at night as much as possible; if you must, then keep the lights dim to prevent stimulating your baby.
Sleep Training for Your Baby
Sleep training refers to the method used to teach your baby to fall asleep on his own. Once this aim is achieved, your baby is more likely to sleep through the night. While some babies easily pick up this art of sleeping, others may take time. There are two ways of sleep training – the controlled crying approach and the no-tears method. The choice is up to both partners after looking at the advantages and disadvantages of each. That said, it is important to remember that for some parents, a single training method might not do the trick. There is no particular age specified at which sleep training should be started. A large number of parents choose the sleep training route because they cannot deal with sleep deprivation any longer. Experts opine that babies are fully able to drift off to sleep by themselves after three months of age.
What Is the Cry it Out/Crying Down/Ferber Method?
Devised by a physician called Dr Richard Ferber, this method recommends letting your baby cry for a short while before you offer him comfort. Dr Ferber has also penned a book on this topic and it can be ideally applied to babies six months and older. The method suggested is as follows:
Gently place your baby in his crib or cot when he is extremely drowsy but not fast asleep.
Give your baby a goodnight kiss and step out of the room.
If your baby cries soon after, wait for a few moments before going inside.
Comfort your baby in a low voice and let the light be on low or switched off. Do not pick him up or feed him.
Leave the room even if your baby is still crying.
You have to repeat these steps until your baby goes off to sleep. It is likely that this will take quite a few attempts before you fully succeed.
Be sure to extend the time between each visit, giving your child greater time to calm down and attempt to sleep.
If the baby wakes up again at night, repeat the same process.
According to Dr Ferber, babies should be able to put themselves to sleep in about a week’s time. It is believed that this technique works because a lot of older babies smartly make the most of the situation when they realize that crying will result in them being held or fed. So, this technique conveys the message that their crying game no longer has any takers. On realizing this, they are likely to stop crying without reason.
However, this method has had plenty of criticism come its way as well. The process of letting a helpless baby cry seems almost traumatising to parents, which is why they tend to give up on the method on the second or third night, which is when the baby’s crying gets truly worse. Referred to as the extinction burst, it is at this point that there can be some improvement expected (after around 3 or 4 days), provided parents do not tend to their baby’s cries.
Gradual Distance Technique for Your Crying Baby
The gradual distancing technique is one of the methods suggested to help stop a baby from crying at night for no reason. Instead of severing your role in the baby’s get-back-to-sleep routine in one go, this method advocates doing it in a phased manner. Here is how you can go about this:
For the first couple of days, you can wait in the baby’s room till he’s asleep, before stepping out.
Then, gradually start leaving the room before he is fully asleep.
If he cries out on seeing you leave, come back and reassure him in a gentle voice without picking him up. Leave when he’s calm.
This can happen quite a few times in the first few days and you may have to keep leaving and coming back till he falls asleep.
Then, start putting him in the crib or cot at bedtime while he is awake and sit nearby till he starts drifting off.
Every day, increase the distance between you and your baby till you reach the doorway.
Go out of the doorway but remain close so you know if baby calls out or cries.
With this method, in about a few weeks, you should be able to put down your baby in the crib at bedtime and walk out while he falls asleep on his own. Also, remember the following tips to make the most of this technique:
It is best to try this only when you feel your baby can handle it. Four months is the suggested age.
Try not to take a step back when using this method as it can undo all that has been achieved.
When Should You Consult a Doctor?
In most cases, your crying baby can be calmed once his needs are met or through your comforting physical presence. But at times, excessive crying in babies at night can be indicative of a more serious cause, such as an illness. You should contact the paediatrician if your baby won’t stop crying at night and one of the following is evident:
Physical discomfort or signs of illness, such as high fever, rashes and the like
Signs of fear or stress in your baby
Remedial measures do not bring about even the slightest change in your child’s behaviour in two weeks
Each baby has his own timeline for meeting milestones of physical and emotional growth. It is no different when it comes to sleep schedules. Also, sleep routines can go off track when the baby is sick or if he is on the verge of achieving some milestone. Thus, it is important to remember that when it comes to babies - time, patience, and a lot of effort are required to get the needed results.
Also Read:
Your Baby’s First Cry – What Does It Signify?
How to Stop Your Baby From Crying?
Baby Crying While Breastfeeding Read more
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Your 28 Week Old Baby - Development, Milestones & Care
Your baby is now a bundle of energy that is always moving. By this age, your child's brain development has occurred in a significant manner. It will be a great idea to follow up on the developmental milestones that the child is supposed to be passing, but worry not if these have not occurred. Milestones are not rules but simply guidelines to give you a better idea of the baby's progress.
A 28 Week-Old Baby's Development
A 28 week-old baby's weight is much more than what it was when he was born, because of the muscles strengthening greatly in the child. Your child will already have learnt to crawl by now, so make sure to keep any choking hazards away from the floor. Rolling around is also common, and your child might be choosing to roll around everywhere, too.
This chosen method of movement varies greatly in children, so it should not be focused upon too much. Some babies might still be struggling to crawl, but some others might already be starting to pull themselves up to stand. In terms of brain development, the child is also improving well. The brain controls the practising of muscles, and powers towards learning to stand up and walk.
By this time, your child will also be hungrier than ever. Appetite increases are common, as the child need energy more than ever in order to power his rapid movements and brain development. Learning new skills also require a lot of energy at this time, and there will be very less resting periods for the body of the baby. In any way, this period involves rapid development on all fronts.
[Also Read: 7 Months Old Baby Development]
A Twenty-Eight Week-Old Baby's Milestones
While the child is bound to have passed a few milestones by this time, it is perfectly okay for children to be slow in progress. These milestones are not rules, but rather guidelines which help parents get an idea of how the growth is progressing.
Crawling will be the norm now, with your child moving rapidly to wherever he pleases. If he is already pulling himself up using furniture and other supports, your child is ahead of the curve already.
Cruising is also something that your baby will be doing, and it involves him standing up using supports to strengthen the muscles of his feet and calves to support walking.
It is common for your baby to walk around in this manner a lot, particularly if you have some furniture arranged in a close manner.
[Also Read: 7 Months Old Baby Milestones]
Feeding
By this age, you will most likely have introduced solid food to your child apart from breast milk. However, some babies might still not be too inclined towards solid food. It is important to remember that the regular inclusion of solid food in the diet of the child will most likely occur only by the age of one, so you must not force solid food onto the child in any manner. You can encourage her subtly by making solid food available to him by including him during the family dinners, but remember to remove whatever is left with her by the end of the meal. If you try to force him to move onto solid food, this might create negative associations and result in the baby not accepting solid food at all. By twelve months of age, the child will likely have moved onto solid foods which the family consumes. A couple of baby teeth may also have sprouted in his mouth by this time.
A common problem with children at this age is tongue tie. This means that the tongue of the child is unable to move as required, which makes him unable to move the food from the front of the mouth to the middle and back in order to swallow it. Chewing also becomes a problem, with the child being unable to move the food sideways as necessary for the teeth to chew it properly. Some symptoms of this problem occurring include gagging, choking, coughing or vomiting while solid food is given to the child. If you suspect this is the case, it is best to pay a paediatric dentist a visit. He will assess whether the functioning of the tongue and check whether it was an issue back during the breastfeeding days.
[Also Read: 7 Months Old Baby Food]
Sleeping
For the 28-week old baby, sleep will be disruptive. You will find the child waking up during odd hours of the night, and crying out for your attention. This occurs as a result of muscle practising, which is the phenomenon where the muscles of the child strengthen during the time he sleeps.
Co-sleeping is most preferred by parents at this time so that they can cater to the needs of the child in a better manner. Co-sleeping involves the child sleeping with the parents, in the same bed. You need to ensure that the guidelines for safe bed-sharing with your infant are met so that there is no difficulty for the parents as well as the baby. By this time, your baby will be able to latch and detach by himself during breastfeeding. Therefore, mothers can sleep or take a nap while they breastfeed the child, making sleeping that much easier.
[Also Read: 7 Months Old Baby Sleep]
A 28 Week-Old Baby's Care Tips
Teething toys will be comforting to the child, as the eruption of teeth will be occurring in his mouth at this time. You can give your baby cold or chilled items occasionally so that the discomfort of teething is numbed when they bite into the item.
Bed sharing is easier to manage, but ensure that your child gets a safe sleeping space during the night.
If the baby is showing difficulty in consuming even pureed or mashed food items, checking the possibility of tongue tie is necessary.
Do not force solid food unto him, as it can create bad associations in the long run.
Tests and Vaccinations
During the period of four to seven months of age, the child will be given a host of vaccinations. The third shot of a number of vaccines is given at this time, including DTaP, polio vaccine, Hep B, Hib, PCV and rotavirus vaccines. These ensure that the child does not contract diseases like diphtheria, polio, tetanus, hepatitis B, flu and some other ones as well. If the doctor thinks that your child is at risk of being infected by meningitis, meningococcal vaccines will also be prescribed for your child.
Games and Activities
The muscles of the baby’s legs and feet will have strengthened adequately enough to support his weight by now, so you might find your baby jumping around or walking with support at this time. If she is bouncing on your lap, it is fine to support him with your hands under his arms so that his legs develop quicker.
As grabbing and throwing is the norm now, you will best help him develop if you allow him to throw his toys as much as he likes. Also, you should avoid retrieving the thrown toys as much as possible- this means that the child has to move for it himself, thus helping the muscles of his legs get a great workout. Floor play must be given a lot of preference, as it helps the child stand up and walk that much sooner.
Your child will also be a keen listener by this age. He might also start contributing babble to the conversations around him, setting the tone for the second year when most of the speech development takes place. He will most likely have understood the ‘speak and pause’ process of conversation, which means that he will enjoy it a lot when his parents speak to him. In order to stimulate his brain further, you can repeat the sounds he makes back to him and then waiting for him so that he speaks during his turn.
[Also Read: 7 Months Old Baby Games and Activities]
When to Consult a Doctor
After vaccinations, it is common for your child to have fever or rashes at the site of vaccination. However, if these symptoms persist for some time, it is best to give the doctor a visit. If you notice something off with your child with your motherly instincts, it is better to take him to the doctor anyway- better safe than sorry, always.
Seven months might have passed in a jiffy but in terms of development, your baby has gone through a lot. He is already sitting and even standing up, and moving onto solid food. Enjoy this time with your child to the fullest.
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Can I Get Pregnant With Hypothyroidism?
Getting pregnant is not easy, not at least for all women out there. There are many complications that a woman may face while trying to conceive. One of the most common problems that can make it harder for a woman to conceive is hypothyroidism. Hypothyroidism or underactive thyroid hormone, especially when left undiagnosed can make it difficult for a woman to conceive. One in ten women have some form of hypothyroidism before or during pregnancy, but most of the time it remains undiagnosed. Read on to know more about hypothyroidism and how it is linked with infertility in women.
What Is Hypothyroidism?
Firstly, let us understand what exactly the condition is. We all have a thyroid gland located under our voice box, near the neck. This gland produces the thyroid hormone which regulates metabolism in the body.
Sometimes, the thyroid gland does not function correctly and as a result, this hormone is produced in low amounts. Such a condition is known as hypothyroidism. Alternatively, hyperthyroidism can occur when the thyroid gland produces thyroid hormones in excess. It is safe to say that the thyroid gland is vital for major functions in your body to carry on seamlessly.
Causes of Hypothyroidism
The main cause of hypothyroidism is the improper functioning of the thyroid gland. However, few other causes may also be at play:
Iodine is an essential mineral that keeps the thyroid gland in check to produce the right quantity of thyroid hormones. When there is too little iodine in the body, hypothyroidism can occur. Vice versa, too much iodine can also cause the same.
If the thyroid gland gets infected or inflamed (thyroiditis), it can leak its hormones into the bloodstream. This causes hyperthyroidism, which can turn into hypothyroidism after a few months.
When you are too stressed, your adrenal glands get activated and produce a hormone called cortisol in excess. Cortisol interferes with the normal production of the thyroid hormone and may be a cause of hypothyroidism.
Exposure to heavy metals like mercury can also trigger hypothyroidism.
Hashimoto's disease, an autoimmune disease that inflames the thyroid gland and affects thyroid hormone production. It is one of the most common causes of hypothyroidism.
Surgical removal of the thyroid gland during treatment of diseases like goitre, thyroid cancer etc., can affect the functioning of the thyroid gland and cause hypothyroidism.
How Does It Affect Conception and Pregnancy?
If a woman has an abnormally low (or high) level of thyroid hormone in her body, it can cause fluctuations in her menstrual cycle. This can also affect her ability to ovulate which may make it difficult to get pregnant or in worse cases, may result in infertility. On the other hand, if you are considering pregnancy with hypothyroidism, do remember that miscarriage is a risk. It could also lead to congenital disabilities in the child. We know it sounds daunting, but don't worry, there are many ways to treat the condition and have a baby as normally as possible.
When Do I Go for a Thyroid Function Test?
If you are thinking of having a baby, first, you will have to schedule a thyroid function test. Your doctor will advise you to undergo a few tests before you start trying to get pregnant. Here are the two times when you can consider going for a thyroid function test.
1. Thyroid Profile Test Before Trying to Conceive
You should go to your doctor, if:
Your family has a history of thyroid disorders.
You've been trying to get pregnant for six months, but still, are unsuccessful.
You experience symptoms like joint pain, muscle pain, hair loss, constipation, fatigue and lethargy, decreased libido, reduced heart rate and development of a goitre.
You are intolerant to cold.
Your menstrual cycles are irregular, and you experience severe period pain.
You have already had more than two miscarriages.
You gain weight rapidly and find it hard to shed the extra kilos even after exercising and following a healthy diet.
The doctor will take your blood test to determine the levels of two thyroid hormones - thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) and thyroxine (T4) in your body. If your T4 levels are low and TSH levels are high, then you might have hypothyroidism. If the vice versa occurs, then that might mean irregular or no ovulation.
2. Thyroid Profile Test After Conceiving
You should take the thyroid function test during the initial stages of your pregnancy, if:
If you have any of the above symptoms.
Your family has a history of thyroid disease.
You have an autoimmune disease like type 1 diabetes or lupus.
If you have had radiation to any part of your neck.
If you are above 30 years of age (as the chance to get hypothyroidism increases with age).
How Can Hypothyroidism Affect the Mother and the Baby?
If you have hypothyroidism during pregnancy and you fail to get it treated, then complications like preeclampsia (rapid rise in blood pressure in later stages of pregnancy), miscarriage, premature birth, heart failure, anaemia, and post-birth depression can occur.
Likewise, your baby could be born with birth defects. He may have problems like low birth weight, thyroid conditions, mental retardation, etc. Chances of premature birth and stillbirth will also be high.
Measures to Take Before Conception
If you have hypothyroidism and you want to get pregnant soon, it is imperative that you seek medical help immediately. You should get the condition treated or in control before you conceive. The reason being that your unborn baby's thyroid gland will start to function only after the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Till then, the baby will depend on you for thyroid hormone. So it is essential to have your thyroid functioning properly and thyroid hormone levels stable before attempting to conceive.
The most common treatment for hypothyroidism is given in the form of a pill which your doctor will prescribe. The tablet contains synthetic thyroxine (identical to T4 produced by the thyroid gland) and is meant to substitute its deficiency in your body. Your doctor will advise you how often to take it and check your thyroid hormone levels every four weeks during the first three months, gradually adjusting the dosage till your thyroid function is back to normal again.
The treatment is safe, however, it may have minimal side effects. But you can try to get pregnant as soon as you are free of the condition. However, if your thyroid hormone levels remain low, plan a visit to a specialist.
What Is Subclinical Hypothyroidism?
This is a mild form of hypothyroidism which may go unnoticed due to its apparent lack of symptoms. A TSH test can detect it, but in case it is found during pregnancy, undergoing hypothyroidism treatment is still the best option.
Measures to Take During Pregnancy
If you get pregnant while you are still being treated for hypothyroidism, go to your doctor immediately. He will suggest the following measures:
Increasing the dosage of the pill (synthetic thyroxine) as you will be already under the treatment.
Checking the thyroid function every six to eight weeks during pregnancy.
Monitoring the levels of the thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) to maintain steady hormone levels in the blood. Your doctor may also adjust medication according to these levels during each check.
Here's what you can do on your part:
Don't be alarmed if your doctor increases medication up to 50% in the dosage of the pill. During pregnancy, your body needs double the amount of thyroid hormone as you are providing it to your unborn baby as well.
Never switch suddenly from generic medicine to a brand or vice versa during your pregnancy. Stick to what you had been taking before getting pregnant and continue with it until your doctor says otherwise.
Make sure to take the exact dose prescribed by your doctor—not more, not less. Each little action you take may have a huge consequence on your baby, so be very careful.
Lastly, don't worry. The medication is entirely safe, and it won't harm you or your baby.
Hypothyroidism is a condition that can develop in a woman any time. If you are trying to get pregnant and have hypothyroidism, it is best to get the condition treated or controlled. Talk to your doctor and follow her instructions, and you will be fine! Do what your doctor suggests you and you will deliver a healthy and happy baby!
Also Read: Thyroid Disease In Pregnancy – A Quick Guide Read more
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Amazing Thanksgiving Stories for Kids
A time to be thankful and extend gratitude for all the blessings bestowed upon you, Thanksgiving Day is celebrated with great zeal and enthusiasm every year in the United States, Canada, parts of the Caribbean Islands and in many other parts of the world. Apart from sharing a Thanksgiving Day meal together with your family and friends, this festival is a reflection of all the things and experiences one is thankful for.
This is the time of the year when you can imbibe the virtue of gratitude in your kids. If your kids love listening to stories or reading stories then the best way to educate them on the value of this festival is by engaging them in some amazing thanksgiving stories. In this post, we shall be sharing some interesting stories that you can share with your little ones and get them in the holiday spirit!
Delightful Thanksgiving Stories for Children
Here are some thanksgiving stories that can help your kid to learn more about kindness and gratitude:
1. Pumpkin Pie
This is one of the short funny thanksgiving stories that you can narrate to your kids that will not only amuse them but also teach them about thanksgiving values.
The story revolves around an eight-year-old girl named Sally who lived in the countryside with her family. Being away from the city, the family seldom had guests over from the city. One day Sally’s father announced that he would be bringing two guests for Thanksgiving supper on his way back from work. The mother was busy the entire day to prepare the festive meal, while Sally helped in cleaning the house. The guests arrived in the evening, and everyone settled to enjoy the festive feast. After relishing the turkey cooked by Sally’s mother, it was time to enjoy the delicious pumpkin pie! Sally carved out the first slice and served it to her dad, which the dad passed on to one of the guests. Sally was amazed at her father’s gesture and cut out another piece and again served it to her father. This time again the father passed on the slice to another guest. This time Sally snapped at her father and said, “Don’t worry father, I will not serve a smaller slice to the guests as I have carved all the slices in the same size’’. Everyone had a big smile on their faces.
2. The Other Side
This is the story of thanksgiving for preschoolers that can be narrated to older kids also to teach them about helping others.
A blind boy was sitting on the stairs of a building holding a sign that read “Please help me, I am blind”. Next to him lay an inverted hat with few coins in it. The people kept going up and down the building stairs, some put coins in the hat others simply crossed him without noticing. After some time a man walked up to the boy, put a coin in the hat and took the sign from the boy. The boy could hear the man scribble something on the sign. The man handed back the sign to the boy. After the man left, there was more clinking of coins in the hat. To the boy’s surprise, people were putting more coins than before. The next day again, the boy came and sat down on the building stairs. As some time passed, he could hear familiar footsteps that approached him. The boy asked the man, “Hello sir, are you the same gentleman who wrote something on my signboard yesterday?”The man said that indeed it was he who did that. The boy wanted to know what changed everyone’s perception and why everyone started giving him more money than before. The man said that he simple strike out the old message and wrote, “It is a beautiful day and l cannot enjoy like all of you!” The man patted the boy’s back as he left a coin in his hat. The boy thanked him for his help and kindness.
3. The Thanksgiving Story
This can be a first thanksgiving story for kindergarten kids that can help them know about the importance and significance of this festival of gratitude and kindness.
A long time ago in the year 1620, a whole bunch of people embarked on a journey to find a place where they could live in peace and harmony and worship whoever they wished to. These people were known as pilgrims. As they sailed on the boat called Mayflower for days, they finally landed in America at Plymouth. They soon started settling down by building homes and also began searching food sources. As winter set in, many pilgrims died because of harsh weather conditions. Squanto, an Indian came to their rescue and taught them how to sow corn plants and other such kinds of crops. The harvest was bountiful and they not only had enough to eat but they stocked up for the coming winters. The people were elated and decided to celebrate. A day was declared for offering prayers and thanksgiving by Governor Bradford. Indians were also invited in the merrymaking as everyone indulged in a three-day long festival of fun and frolic.
4. Cold Turkey
A funny thanksgiving story for toddlers and older kids that also gives away a meaningful message in the end.
One fine morning, a few days before Thanksgiving, Bobby went to a nearby supermarket store. As he was venturing between the aisles and browsing different products, he suddenly collapsed. The fellow shoppers quickly gathered around him to help him as he was lying there unconscious. His condition started deteriorating when the blood started oozing from his ears and his face started turning white. The medical team arrived soon at the scene and examined the young boy. The team removed his hat, and to everyone’s surprise, there was a frozen turkey hidden inside his hat. It didn’t take much time for everyone to guess that the boy was trying to steal the frozen turkey under his hat, which numbed and chilled his brains and caused this condition. The manager was present at the scene too. Looking at the innocent and scared face of the boy, the manager decided not to take any action and he also handed over the thawed turkey to the boy. After a couple of days, the manager received a letter from Bobby that contained his apology, and he also expressed his gratitude towards the manager’s generosity. The manager had a grin on his face as he also found 15 dollars in envelop, which was the cost of the turkey that Bobby tried to steal.
5. The Story of The Ears of Wheat
This ancient German folklore talks about giving importance and value to food.
Once there lived an older woman with her granddaughter in a quaint village in Germany. She once told her granddaughter how long time ago, the wheat ears were not as scanty as they were in the present times. Rather they had more than 40 to 50 ears and the entire plant used to be flooded with wheat ears. It was a kind of blessing from God, but humans could not value it. The granddaughter asked the reason for the same. The grandmother said it happened because it was believed that once a woman and her daughter were walking along the wheat field and the daughter slipped and fell down in a puddle that spoiled her clothes. The panicked mother snatched some of the wheat ears and started cleaning her daughter’s dress with it. As the woman was cleaning her daughter, an angel happened to pass through the field and saw the entire scene. The angel was shocked to see how humans were valuing their blessings. The angel cursed and said that the wheat crops would no longer bear any ears as humans are not worthy of such blessings and riches. On learning this, all the peasants came down on their knees to ask for forgiveness, but the efforts went into vain. The peasants then urged that not for them but for the sake of innocent birds, the curse should be revoked. The angel took pity but revoked only partial curse, and thus the wheat ears became scantier than before.
Share these fun and exciting thanksgiving stories with your kids that will inspire and educate them about the festival of gratitude!
Also Read:
Interesting Thanksgiving Facts for Kids
Thanksgiving Treats and Desserts for Kids Read more
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
15 hours ago
Q. I am currently 32 week pregnant.I recently had growth scan.mu baby is in cephalic presentation. Does this change as I approach my due date. Also my EDD is July 25 and EDC is July 2. what is my expected due date. Also what is EDC?
Dr Vandan H Kumar
Paediatrician
14 hours ago
A. edc is expected date of delivery only.
that is 40 weeks
You will get more information for your query with your family doctor. You may meet your dr in person for proper guidance .
It is important to remain in contact with your doctor.
Swati Kar Samanta has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 7 months
14 hours ago
Q. why I am getting dizziness in my pregnancy
I am going with 3rd month of my pregnancy it's a very strong dizziness I feel at times means every day .....no other symptoms of pregnancy .Please help with elaboration .All okay means isn't part of this journey.
Read moreSwati Kar Samanta
Mom of a 2 m old girl
4 hours ago
A. Do consult your doctor as soon as you can. It's important to find the real reason because without that, proper medication is not possible.
Dr Priyanka Kalra has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
14 hours ago
Q. I am currently 32 week pregnant and had growth scan recently.My baby is in cephalic presentation.does this change after 36 week or does this remain the same?
Dr Priyanka Kalra
Obstetrician and Gynaecologist
7 hours ago
A. usually fixed. better to show to specialist always as they get the correct diagnosis. try to avoid self and extra medication that will only complicate this and create more damage to the child
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
5 hours ago
Q. it's my 5 month n I still didn't went for check up yet not even once is it okay if I go now or?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
5 hours ago
A. You should have started going from the very beginning itself once you get to know you’re pregnant but since you haven’t reached that now if you’re pregnancy has been healthy last five months please get it checked with your doctor also if you need to start with any supplements or diet the doctor would advise you after a ultrasound so please visit your gynaecologist
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
2 hours ago
Q. size chart is not correct for age of the baby
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
1 hour ago
A. generally it is available from Indian academy growth chart download from Google. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Nikitha has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
51 mins ago
Q. Mera 8 month start hu white distance hora mere ko
Nikitha
Mom of a 9 yr 5 m old boy
51 mins ago
A. hello since u are a expecting mom this would require a proper medical attention and it is better to check with your doctor and your doctor will be able to guide you better on examination of the same and advise you accordingly
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