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Cervical Length During Pregnancy
Every pregnant woman wants a healthy baby. The cervical length is one of the factors that can cause complications during pregnancy. This article will tell you everything about cervical length and how it can affect your pregnancy.
What is Cervical Length?
The cervix is a three-centimetre long canal that connects the uterus to the vagina. The cervical length is simply the length of the canal, including the cervical opening. In pregnant women, the cervix needs to be of a specific length for the growth of a healthy baby.
Why is the Cervical Length Important?
The cervix is almost inflexible until you get pregnant. Once you conceive, it becomes softer and shorter, loses muscle tone, and dilates. This is known as cervical effacement, which allows the foetus to fit inside the cervical canal while being born. However, if your cervix is too short, you may be at risk of preterm labour and all the complications that come along with premature birth.
Are Having a Short Cervix and Cervical Insufficiency Related?
No, short cervix and cervical insufficiency are totally different things. A short cervix merely refers to the length of the cervical canal. Cervical insufficiency, on the other hand, refers to the premature cervical effacement and dilation that happen when the muscles are unable to remain firm and strong. Cervical insufficiency can lead to a short cervix.
Factors That Influence the Cervical Length
Several factors influence cervical length. Some of them are:
Anatomy
Some women have a short cervix. That's how their bodies are built.
Distended Uterus
In multiple pregnancies, the uterus stretches more than its capacity. It pushes downwards on the cervix, reducing its length.
Cervical Insufficiency
Cervical insufficiency or an incompetent cervix is a condition caused due to the lack of cervical muscle strength, which can influence cervical length.
How is the Length of the Cervix Measured?
An ultrasound transvaginal scan can help to measure the cervical length. Ideally, the cervical length in the 24th week should be about 3.5 - 5 cm, whereas, at 28 weeks, it should be 3.5 - 4 cm. At 32 weeks, the cervical length is 3 - 3.5 cm. A cervix shorter than 2.5 cm increases the likelihood of preterm birth.
Is Measuring the Cervical Length a Must?
Doctors usually recommend the cervical length scan to women carrying twins or multiples or having a medical history of premature birth and miscarriage.
Tips to Deal With a Short Cervix
Here are a few things you should do if your cervix is too short:
1. Bed Rest
Bed rest shouldn't be compromised on. Lying down prevents the uterus and the foetus from bearing down on the cervix, thus preventing it from early effacement.
2. Cerclage
This is a minor surgery in which your doctor will stitch your cervix shut with a couple of sutures. The procedure is quick and performed under anaesthesia. It is done for women who have had prior preterm deliveries. Some doctors believe that cerclages can lead to infection and inflammation, but these can be controlled with the right medications.
3. Hormonal Treatment
In this treatment, your doctor will place the pregnancy hormone, progesterone, in the cervical area. Progesterone can help in relaxation of the uterus.
4. Pessary
A silicone device known as a pessary can be used to support the cervix, keeping it closed shut.
It's important to understand the changes your body goes through during pregnancy. Cervical length plays a major role during pregnancy, so it is essential to stay informed about it. If you have any concerns about the cervical length during pregnancy, consult your gynaecologist.
Also Read: A Guide To Cervix Dilation During Labour and Birth Read more
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Top 12 Potassium Rich Foods
Potassium is an essential mineral that’s required for many of the critical functions of the body, such as fluid and electrolyte balance in the body, building healthy teeth and bones, and controlling the functions of the nervous system. A deficiency of Potassium can cause irritability, fatigue, hypertension, weakness, and heart palpitations. Continue reading to know what makes Potassium an important mineral, as well as a list of potassium-rich foods.
What Makes Potassium a Vital Nutrient for Our Body?
Potassium is a critical electrolyte that’s essential for the regulation of fluids, conduction of nerve signals and regulating muscle contractions. Here's how Potassium does all of that:
Functions as an electrolyte in the body: 98% of the total Potassium in the body is found in the cells, out of which 80% exist in the muscle cells and 20% in the bones, red blood cells and liver. When dissolved in water, Potassium turns into a positively charged ion that can conduct electricity. These ions have a range of functions essential for the body’s functions. (0)
Regulation of fluid balance: Our bodies are approximately made of 60% water. About 40% of it exists in the form of intracellular fluid (ICF) and the rest is in the form of blood and spinal fluid, as extracellular fluid (ECF). The balance of water in the ECF and ICF is regulated by electrolytes such as Potassium and Sodium. Potassium being the main electrolyte within the ICF regulates the water inside the cells, while sodium being the main electrolyte in the ECF regulates water outside the cells. Together, they maintain the flow of water in and around the cells. (1)
Plays a critical role in the functioning of the nervous system: The nervous system uses electrolytes extensively to conduct nerve impulses. These electrical signals relay messages from the brain to the body and also control muscle movement, reflexes, sensory receptors and heartbeat. The nerve impulses are regulated by the Sodium and Potassium ions, and their movements in and out of cells generate the voltage needed to conduct the electrical signals.
Regulates the functioning of muscles and heart: Potassium levels in the blood and muscles have a strong effect on the heart's contractions. Too high or too low levels of potassium can affect the voltage and disturb nerve impulses. Improper potassium balance is also critical to keep the heart beating at a steady rhythm. Heart arrhythmia or irregular heartbeat caused by improper levels of potassium can sometimes be fatal.
What Foods are High in Potassium?
Here a list of Potassium-rich foods you need to include in your diet.
1. White Beans
Beans and lentils are rich sources of Potassium. White beans contain 829mg of Potassium per cup (179g), which is about 22 percent of the RDI (Recommended Daily Intake). One review involving about 250,000 people showed that increasing dietary Potassium intake by 1640 mg, which is about 45 percent of the RDI every day, cut down the risk of stroke by 21 percent. White beans are also rich in other essential nutrients such as Folate, Thiamine, Magnesium, Iron and Manganese, along with containing plenty of fibre.
2. Spinach
Spinach is one of the best among vegetables high in Potassium, with many essential nutrients present in it. One cup (180 g) of cooked spinach has about 675 mg of Potassium which is 18% of RDI making it a great choice for those looking to add it to the diet. Spinach also has 4 times the RDI of Vitamin A, 30 percent RDI of Calcium, ten times the RDI of vitamin K and 90 percent RDI of Manganese. All of these essential nutrients aid in good vision, bone health, metabolism and immunity.
3. Beets
This red root vegetable with its sweet flavour makes for a tasty addition to your salad while giving you about 518 mg of Potassium per cup ( 170 g) which is 13% of the RDI. Beets are also rich in Fibre, Manganese and Folates. The pigment which gives them their deep red colour is a powerful antioxidant which fights free-radical damage to improve immunity and overall health. Beets, while being high in nitrates along with Potassium, are good for the cardiovascular system as well.
4. Bananas
Banana is a common fruit with high amounts of Potassium. One medium sized banana contains 422 mg, which is about 14 percent of the RDI. It’s a fantastic way to restore your Potassium reserve after a heavy work out or a hot day in the sun. Green bananas are also high in starch and fibre, making them excellent sources of carbohydrates and roughages for the intestine. Bananas are ideal to bring your Potassium levels up to the RDI, along with other food sources on a daily basis.
5. Avocados
Avocados, while being tasty, are packed with nutrients making them a favourite among fitness enthusiasts. When it comes to foods with Potassium that are good for the heart, avocados rank high on the list. One medium sized avocado contains about 750 mg of Potassium or 20 percent of RDI. They are rich in monosaturated fats, fibre, Vitamin C, Vitamin B6, Vitamin K, Folates, and Antioxidants, making them excellent for heart health.
6. Salmon
People who regularly eat fish will have no problem with meeting their dietary requirement of Potassium. With half a filet of salmon (187 g) containing about 683 mg of potassium or 17% of RDI, the fish is rich in Potassium. What’s more, salmon is packed with omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins and minerals essential for the brain. It’s also seen that a diet rich in Potassium and fatty fish is linked to a decrease in risk of heart disease. (2) (3)
7. Coconut water
Coconut water has always been a favourite go-to drink during summers, and for good reason, with a high concentration of electrolytes in it. One glass (240 g) of coconut water contains 600 mg of potassium, which is about 15% of the RDI. It is excellent for rehydrating the body after going out on a hot summer day or high-intensity workout. Studies have found that it is more effective than plain water and just as effective as sports drinks at rehydrating the body.
8. Dry Fruits
Dry fruits and nuts are an excellent choice of a nutritious snack that's high in Potassium. Dried apricots are a great source of Potassium that will also satisfy your sugar craving while adding a number of other essential nutrients, along with fibre. When served dry or dehydrated, you also tend to eat more and get about 1500mg of potassium per cup, which is a little more than half the RDI. If you’re not a fan of dried apricots, try dried raisins, peaches or figs, which are also rich sources of potassium. Preferably go for unsweetened and unsalted dry fruits for the maximum benefits.
9. Dairy Products
Although fruits and vegetables are the best sources of Potassium, dairy products are surprisingly high in the mineral. One cup of whole milk contains about 300 mg of Potassium, while the same amount of skimmed milk has 400 mg, which is 11 percent of RDI. Yoghurt, which is a popular probiotic, also contains abundant amounts of Potassium. One cup (245 g) of yoghurt contains 400 mg Potassium and plenty of good bacteria that are essential for the healthy functioning of the gut. When choosing yoghurt, go for the plain variety that is not loaded with flavours or sugars.
10. Oranges
Oranges and other citrus fruits are popular for their Vitamin C content. However, they are also excellent sources of Potassium. One glass of orange juice contains about 400 mg of Potassium or 11 percent of the RDI. It is also loaded with Vitamin A, Folate, Thiamine and antioxidants. Orange juice is a refreshing drink on a hot summer day or to replenish electrolytes after a mild workout session. Its high antioxidant content fights free radicals and boosts immunity along with Vitamin C to keep you healthy.
11. Potatoes
Potatoes have long been part of our diet due to their abundance of every essential vitamin and mineral. They are also one of the densest sources of Potassium among all vegetables. One large (300 g) baked potato has 1275 mg or 34% of the RDI. Although most of the potatoes’ Potassium is in its flesh, the skin contains a third of the mineral. Therefore, eating it whole is the best way to get all of its nutrients. Sweet potatoes also have a significant amount of Potassium in them, along with healthy carbs and fibre. A 180-gram sweet potato can have up to 675 mg of Potassium, which is 18 percent of RDI.
12. Tomato Sauce
Tomato sauce is not only popular for its taste, but also the range of essential nutrients it has. When it comes to Potassium, a cup (244 g) of tomato sauce has about 638 mg or 17 percent of the RDI. It is also rich in Vitamins A, C, E, B6 and copper. The antioxidant lycopene present abundantly in tomatoes combats free radical damage, fights inflammation, and boosts immunity.
FAQS
1. How to Know If My Potassium Level Has Gone Low?
Quite often, Potassium levels are tested for in blood tests when a related illness shows up. Potassium deficiency rarely shows up as isolated symptoms. However, low Potassium can cause muscle cramps, weakness, fatigue, and constipation. The most troublesome complication of low Potassium is heart arrhythmias or irregular heartbeat in people who have heart diseases.
2. How Much Potassium Do You Need Per Day?
The recommended intake of Potassium by the ICMR is 1100 mg/day for children between 1-3 years, 1550 mg/ day for children between 4 to 6 years, 3225 mg/day for the average woman and 3750 mg/day for the average man.
The 12 mentioned foods are the best sources of Potassium. It is ideal to combine as many of them in your diet as possible to get your fill of Potassium, along with other essential nutrients.
Also Read :
Foods That Increase Your Metabolism
Foods That Will Boost Your Energy Levels
Power Foods to Boost Your Stamina
Reference:
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/high-potassium-foods
https://draxe.com/top-10-potassium-rich-foods/
https://www.myfooddata.com/articles/food-sources-of-potassium.php
https://www.everydayhealth.com/pictures/foods-high-in-potassium/
https://www.healthline.com/nutrition/what-does-potassium-do#section7
https://www.mayoclinic.org/symptoms/low-potassium/basics/when-to-see-doctor/sym-20050632
https://www.nestle.in/nhw/nutrition-basics/nutrients/minerals/sodium-potassium Read more
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Four Things I Wish I had Known as a New Mom
Pregnancy was one of the most beautiful phase of my life as a woman. I made lists upon lists of things I might require for the arrival of a new baby. I read a lot of blogs and books on what to expect during my pregnancy however reality was a bit different. There were a lot of advice coming from everywhere but I wish I had known these 4 simple things before the birth of my baby as I had to learn it the hard way.
1. Avoid Top Feed
When your baby is just born you might not produce enough milk however do not stop breastfeeding. Avoid top feed as much as you can. The best way to produce more milk is to breastfeed. Milk production works on demand and supply basis. I was not aware of this and gave top feeds to my baby from the very beginning which led to further decrease in my supply. I was eventually able to breastfeed my baby but it took a lot of hard work
2. You May Not be Able To Exclusively Breastfeed and Thats OK
Breastfeeding can be a challenge to many. I struggled a lot with it. Do the best that you can. Visit a lactation consultant if necessary but if it doesn't work, don't beat yourself up for it. Formula milk is the best supplement to mother's milk. What is important is that your child is healthy and happy. I worried a lot about not being able to exclusively breastfeed. I was afraid of being judged and felt like a bad mother. But my kid is healthy and happy and that is what matters in the end.
3. Don't Rock Your Baby To Sleep
Newborns wake up almost every 2 hrs to feed and as a tired parent we do all that we can to comfort our child. Amongst many, rocking is a very effective way to soothe a baby. However, it can also quickly turn into a strong habit or sleep association. It is a habit that will cost you sleepless nights in the coming months. I still rock my baby to sleep and its tiring to say the least. It is best to try to make him/her sleep by gently patting on the chest and humming. Ofcourse, this does not mean you should never rock and cuddle your baby but just make sure that it does not turn into a habit.
4. Position Babies Head To a Different Side Each Night
Everywhere you look on the Internet, all you see is that you need to make your baby sleep on their back to avoid SIDS (Sudden infant death syndrome). We definitely need to follow the safety guidelines, however, this can lead to baby having flat spots on the head due to pressure being constantly applied in the same area. You can avoid this by slightly turning babies head on the right one night and to the left the next night. This will prevent flat spots from forming and keep the babies head nice and round.
I hope these simple but important tips be of some help to you
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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Banana, oatmeal, flaxseed smoothie
Keep extra stock of bananas on hand and make this banana, oats, flax smoothie with almonds. It's like dessert for breakfast, and it’s definitely a smoothie you’ll want to make regularly. It’s packed with all good ingredients that your family will love, kids included. Try out this convenient and delicious smoothie with this easy recipe.
Serves
Preparation Time
Cooking Time
4 People
10 Minutes
6 Minutes
Ingredients
3/4 cup oats
2 cups milk
2 bananas
3 tsps (teaspoons) sugar(for kids)
5 tsps honey
6 almonds
1 tbsp (tablespoon) flaxseeds
Method
Step 1
Dry roast oats with flaxseeds for about 2 mins.
Step 2
Allow to cool and grind flaxseeds in a mixer.
Step 3
In a blender, add oats, ground flax, chopped banana, honey, milk, sugar(optional) and blend it until smooth.
Step 4
Add chopped almonds, spoon it into a mason jar and refrigerate.
Step 5
You can garnish with chopped almonds while serving.
Nutritional Information
Amount Per Serving Calories 300 Calories from Fat 50
Total Fat
6 g 9%
Saturated Fat
2 g 10%
Cholesterol
10 mg 3%
Sodium
90 mg 4%
Potassium
620 mg 18%
Total Carbohydrate
51 g 17%
Dietary Fiber
5 g 20%
Sugars
25 g
Protein
12 g
Vitamin A
2%
Vitamin C
10%
Calcium
25%
Iron
10%
* Percent Daily Values are based on a 2,000 calorie diet.
Your Daily Values may be higher or lower depending on your calorie needs.
Read more
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An Experience of a Parents-Teachers Meeting
My story is about how we measure a child's success and failure only through grades. We all speak about manners, showing respect, honouring elders, sharing with peers, and instilling good values in kids, but when it comes to PTM, do we even faintly consider these abstract qualities as yardsticks for a child's growth?
The D-Day arrived. I meticulously noted down the things I had to ask the class teacher. After all, the Parents-Teachers Meeting is generally regarded as the most important event in the lives of both parents and children. When I reached the school, the scene could have been misconstrued for a jam session. Parents and children turned out in their best outfits. I wasn't any different! When I entered my daughter's classroom, I noticed anxious faces and worried expressions. Some were unhappy with their ward's first term marks, a few repeatedly calculated the numbers from answer sheets (half a mark should not go anywhere), and others reprimanded their children for low scores. There was also a separate category. Parents that are boastful about their children and brag about them to others. A mother flaunted her Louis Vuitton purse at practically every opportunity. The reason for her absurd behaviour was primarily because her child scored second highest in Class 2, First Term. I made my way through the maze of people.
When I reached the class teacher's table, she quietly asked me to take a seat and placed my daughter's answer sheets in front of me. I grabbed them and, like other parents, scanned through the sheets with enthusiasm. The adrenaline rush was like the last ball decider of an Indo-Pak cricket match. A parent could be seen craning her neck to look at the papers in my hand. And by the look on her face, I would know if her child was better or mediocre than mine. It was all written on their faces. Comparisons and competition right from budding!
'Can I ask you a few questions, please?' A sixty-something lady's voice made me look up. She was sophisticated and composed. Her smile was contagious, and I reciprocated with a gesture of my own, but her addressee was the class teacher, not me. Nonetheless, she recognised it. The teacher reluctantly prepared for a barrage of questioning from parents who demanded explanations for their child's grades that fell short of their expectations. 'I am Anand's grandma. His mother has been bedridden for the past six months, and his father is out of the station, so...' the lady couldn't complete her sentence as another parent asked the teacher why her daughter's pencil box got missing two days ago. Well, the teacher tried to maintain her sanity and focused on the aged lady.
'Yes, please continue, Mrs...? 'I am Mrs Jairam,' came the reply. Anand stood shyly but always smiling. "I am not concerned about his marks but tell me, is he well behaved in class? And shows respect to the teachers? Is he polite and accepts his mistakes calmly?" The elderly lady sounded eager to know but not anxious. There was a serenity about the voice. I could see a few like me were stunned. Her questions were enough to draw attention. The teacher looked at others, and finally, her eyes rested on the lady. 'Thank you, Mrs Jairam, for asking me these questions. Anand is the most well behaved, gentle and best-mannered child. And now I know why!' The old lady was beaming with glory. 'This comforts me a lot. I just wanted to ensure that my grandchild has imbibed all moral values. A good human being is rare, and I want him to be that.' She thanked the teacher and left with Anand. I glanced at the table where Anand's answer sheets and report card were neatly placed. He topped the exam!
Others in the hall appeared so trivial to me. All of us looked such an incongruous contrast to Anand's grandma. I had many questions for the teacher but left without asking any. I had enough questions intriguing me on my way back.
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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Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 5 months
16 hours ago
Q. I got faint line all my pregnancy test and I missed my periods for 10 days but USG and TVs test confirm there is no pregnancy is there any chance that it is very early stage that's why it is not visible???? or TVs test is the last thing that can tell that really there is no pregnancy
Read moreRashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 7 m old girl
16 hours ago
A. I think it would be advisable for you to get an ultrasound done with your doctor that’s going to give you a clarity because if there is a pregnancy it would be visible at least at least that sack is visible if it’s a regular pregnancy so it would be advisable to have a test with your doctor
Dr. Minal Acharya has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
12 hours ago
Q. mere twins baby girl and boyhai one month 8 days old kya mai ghutti de sakte hun ya gripe water de sakte hun aur kab se start kar sakte hun
Dr. Minal Acharya
Nutritionist
12 hours ago
A. dear Mum, you should not give any sort of gripe water or ghutti to your baby. these are unhealthy and dangerous and can cause infection to your baby. so, these should be completely avoided.
Dr Vandan H Kumar has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
12 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
11 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
11 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
1 hour 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
11 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
4 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
2 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
2 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
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