PharmEasy Blog

Things To Keep In Mind Before Planning Pregnancy

The feeling of bringing a new life into this world is truly enticing and overwhelming. This mixed emotion of joy and anticipation can perhaps get nervous and anxious as well. Planning to have a baby can bring numerous questions to your mind. Nevertheless, there are certain things you can do to get yourself prepared. A lot of ‘me’ and ‘us’ time with your partner bonding with the baby even when it is yet to arrive, is crucial. 

Here’s what you can keep in mind when planning your family!

Getting a health check-up before planning a pregnancy is actually a great idea. Many women don’t know about undiagnosed conditions like diabetes, or thyroid disorder that they may be having. You’ll gain more confidence by getting a GTG from your doctor before planning to conceive. Your doctor may advise to-

  1. Get a full-body checkup (including blood sugar, blood pressure, thyroid and lipid profile).
  2. Dental Checkup (good oral hygiene is important during pregnancy, there are chances of pregnancy gingivitis in some women, talk to your dentist beforehand).
  3. Begin with some essential vitamins.  
  4. If you or your husband are already taking any medications for some ailments, talk to your doctor about their safety before and during pregnancy. Some medicines are considered harmful to the baby and need to be stopped a few months before a woman conceives.


Folic acid and iron levels need to be in the normal range during pregnancy. Deficiency of these can lead to anaemia and birth defects in children. Talk to your doctor about the right supplements that should be taken to keep away any deficiencies before planning pregnancy.  

Stop drinking alcohol, quit smoking and cut down on caffeine consumption before you plan to conceive. With such things in your system, while you plan to conceive, the baby may have the risk of facing some birth-related problems like infant birth-death, premature birth and other defects.

Having a good knowledge of your family history as well as your partner’s before conceiving can be important for your child’s health. Allow yourself to tell this information to your doctor, so that he may rule out any chances that may harm the baby. If you have suffered from a series of miscarriages or other defects that have prevented you from having a child before, this could also be due to family history. Hence, knowing and gathering information about the same can help you and your child to run the pregnancy trip smoothly.

This goes without saying, the question ”is it okay to exercise now?” will strike most of you. This would be an excellent time to indulge in a little walking, swimming or any other form of exercise that relaxes you. Some doctors will advise you to get in shape before the right time and get the optimum required to get pregnant to increase your chances for the better. It can be any form of workout that you enjoy or take a class if you find difficulty with maintaining consistency. Ask your partner to join you, which will benefit you both individually while allowing you to spend time together. Start consuming healthy and lean protein, leafy greens, nuts and whole grains. Cutting back on oily and packaged foods would benefit you even further. Take good sleep and stay away from smoking and alcohol.

Before you plan on conceiving, it is always advisable to visit your gynaecologist first to get a check-up done. If you have been on regular birth control pills, you may be asked to stop them at least a couple of months before. Accordingly, you can plan to conceive after, if any, complications are ruled out. Timely checkups are advisable to ensure no complications are on the way. Regular tests and other diagnoses should be expected throughout the pregnancy period.

Having a baby will bring up new expenses. Managing and balancing your finances while giving importance to savings is important. From diapers and skincare to baby vaccinations, you will be draining a lot out of your wallet without even realising it once your baby comes. You will be expected to have pregnancy medications, monthly checkups and ultrasound scans all of which can cost a lot, which is why you must consider financial planning in advance. Preparing for the newer expenses in advance will help you manage these spending with ease. Find out if your insurance plan covers maternity care.

Maintaining good hygiene vaginally can keep the chances of infections lower ‘down there’ and increase your chances of conception. You may be prone to infections during pregnancy, hence you will need something mild and safe to use below. 

Also Read: What is Anterior Placenta: A Comprehensive Insight into Maternal Health

During the first year of their life, your baby will need tons of stuff as they grow up. Baby clothes, nappies, diapers, food and baby skincare. Buying baby essentials all at once can drill a hole in your pocket. Once you conceive, start setting up an account for your baby and list down the things they will need. Start buying them over nine months of your pregnancy. This pregnancy period can seem like an uphill climb over your emotions, but with things properly planned out, you will be able to have a smooth and healthy pregnancy with your baby safe and sound as he steps into this world.
The entire period of pregnancy and even after you give birth will be one-of-a-kind. Keeping these precautions in mind, investing in your health, incorporating lifestyle changes, and budgeting will all be worth it, especially when you finally have your baby in your arms.

Also read: Eating Right: Foods To Avoid During Pregnancy

Being aware of your health and knowing what to expect during and after pregnancy can help you embrace this journey. Remember that you do not have to do this alone, seek help from friends, family, doctors, communicate with your partner, and speak to other expecting parents. Health concerns during pregnancy are often so centred on taking care of a woman’s physical health that people tend to overlook her mental well-being. Pregnancy is a life-changing event and you are allowed to experience emotional stress. It is only normal, but always address it and never shy away from discussing it with people who can help you deal with your anxiety before you conceive. This is an opportunity to make sure that before and after birth, you and your baby are both healthy and sound.

When you are trying to conceive, your psychological and emotional health must be a top priority. While you might be asked to look at the positive side of it, considering the risk factors is also extremely important. Mood swings, postpartum depression etc are commonly associated with pregnancy. If you are someone who has experienced mental health issues in past, you must take extra care of your mental well being when planning pregnancy.   Here are some tips-

  1. Learn and practice breathing exercises and relaxation techniques
  2. Indulge in a self-care routine
  3. Practice yoga
  4. Journalling can be a great way to jot down your entire journey of pregnancy and keep you happy and relaxed.
  5. Talk to other moms, and family members and remember you are not alone in this. 

Also Read: Implantation Symptoms: Evidence-Based Guide to Early Pregnancy Signs

With ample information available around you, choose only the right information and do not get misled. It is practical to think about your child’s future, factors like more space, a better location, finances or others must be discussed beforehand so that once your baby arrives you know you are well settled and have everything worked out for the baby.

Also Read: Headaches During Pregnancy: Causes, Remedies, and When To Seek Help

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

4

What To Not Eat When You’re Expecting

Introduction

What you consume during pregnancy has an impact on both your health and the health of your baby. Doctors always recommend a healthy diet and lifestyle during pregnancy. Healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables and whole grains, nuts can help you satisfy your nutritional needs. However, you can’t just eat any fruit or vegetable, certain fruits and vegetables aren’t safe to eat during pregnancy. It is also important to know what not to eat during pregnancy.

While most fruits provide the vitamins and nutrients your body requires throughout pregnancy, especially when the fetus experiences a development spurt, some fruits may be harmful to your health. Some fruits have been documented to affect the baby’s health, while others can cause a miscarriage. Here’s a list of foods to avoid during pregnancy.

Not all Fruits

Fruits are an essential part of nutrition during pregnancy. Some people think that Tamarind and Pineapple should not be consumed during pregnancy. Experts say there is no science-backed explanation for this. However, moderation is the key. Excess citrus fruits can cause other problems related to acidity and indigestion.  

Unripe papaya is said to be harmful to pregnant women and should be avoided in all trimesters. It is best to talk to a doctor or dietician about foods to avoid during pregnancy as the list may differ based on your health conditions.

Uncooked/undercooked dairy, poultry and meat

Unpasteurized dairy products

Seafood

Caffeine

Alcohol

Unwashed fruits and vegetables

Herbal tea

Also Read: What is Anterior Placenta: A Comprehensive Insight into Maternal Health

Conclusion

These are some food items that are unsafe to be eaten during pregnancy. Every essential nutrient (both macro and micro) should be consumed in adequate quantities throughout the pregnancy. This will give your growing baby the proper nourishment and aid healthy development. Increase the number of fruits in your diet. If you don’t like large fruit dishes, you can eat a few with each meal. Stale, left-over, unwashed, undercooked food should be strictly avoided. Freshly prepared food and hygienic preparation methods should be incorporated into every expecting mom’s kitchen.  

Disclaimer: The above information has been prepared by a qualified medical professional and may not represent the practices followed universally. The suggestions listed in this article constitute relatively common advice given to patients and since every patient is different, you are advised to consult your physician, if in doubt, before acting upon this information. Lupin Limited has only facilitated the distribution of this information to you in the interest of patient education and welfare.

1

Easy Tips To Reduce Back Pain During Pregnancy!

Introduction

It is estimated that more than 50% of women experience lower back pain during pregnancy or even during their postpartum phase, making it an uncomfortable predicament along with various other ongoing hormonal changes. Although there are several reasons why you might be going through a discomforting back, one evident cause is your growing body weight. This is a positive sign of good health during pregnancy but can take a toll on your body when it continues for a prolonged period.

Causes of back pain during pregnancy

Pain can be in the pelvic region anteriorly just above the bladder or in the whole pelvic girdle region. Pain can be bilateral, unilateral or can radiate right down to the calves and thighs. Between anterior pelvic pain and posterior pelvic pain, the former is more common amongst women.

A typical cause of lower back pain during pregnancy is when the pelvis joins the spine at the sacroiliac joint.

Alternative means of pain control, including yoga, deep breathing, and acupuncture provide good results.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

This may happen due to the following reasons:

 · Weight gain

A well-developed woman enjoying a healthy pregnancy can expect to put on about 30 to 40 pounds which put additional pressure on the spine in very little time. Additionally, the weight of the baby growing inside the womb and that of the uterus exerts a force on the nerves and blood vessels in the back and pelvis resulting in lower back pain.

 · Hormone changes

At the time of pregnancy, the body releases the hormones like relaxin and progesterone that make the ligaments in the pelvic area relaxed. They help the pelvis region prepare for the birthing process. The very same hormone may have some effect on the lower back region leading to pain and discomfort. 

 · Posture changes

With pregnancy, your tummy starts to grow outwards automatically shifting your centre of gravity. Adjustment in posture and the way you move results in strain and lower back pain.

 · Stress

Emotional stress can also contribute to muscle tension in the backside that can be experienced as back spasms or back pain. During stressful stages of your pregnancy, especially your last trimester, this can increase significantly.

 · Low levels of calcium and vitamin D

 Calcium and vitamin D must be in a healthy range during pregnancy. Deficiency of any or both of these may become a cause of bony pain. Talk to your doctor for the necessary supplements and dietary modifications if found deficient in tests. 

Although it is very common to experience low back pain in pregnancy, if it is associated with severe disabling pain and symptoms of nerve compression like tingling and numbness, you should visit an orthopaedic surgeon for a timely diagnosis.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj, M.B.B.S., M.D.

Home remedies for back pain during pregnancy

 · Exercise

Exercise boosts flexibility and strengthens muscles. It can ease the stress on the spine. Safe exercises for back pain during pregnancy are swimming, walking and low impact cycling. You can also practice yoga under the guidance of a certified trainer. The physical therapist or doctor may recommend exercises to further strengthen the abdomen and back.

 · Change your posture

Slouching puts stress on the spine and further aggravate your back pain. To maintain good posture, use a good quality chair that provides firm support to the back. You can also lean back a little to make room for your growing belly. You may also consider wearing a support belt.

 · Heat and cold

Applying a hot and cold compress to the back may be beneficial. If your doctor gives permission you can use an ice pack wrapped in a towel as a cold compress. Apply this for 20 minutes throughout the day as many times as advised by your doctor. After three days, you may be advised to switch to a heating pad but never apply heat directly to the abdomen area during your pregnancy.

 · Stretch often

Doing light stretching exercises such as yoga or postpartum pilates under expert supervision can help strengthen the pelvic muscles and back region.

 · Keep moving

Sitting or standing in one place for long hours can increase back pain, aim to move for a few minutes after every 25 minutes.

 · Pain management

To minimise pain surrounding the pelvic region, you can cut down on activities such as running, climbing stairs and supporting your legs with the help of a footstool when sitting or with a pillow under the feet when lying down.

 · Counselling

If your lower back pain during pregnancy does not reduce even after following these tips for a few days and if you are very stressed about the pregnancy and or delivery, seek guidance from a professional about the best way forward.

Sleeping positions that can help

Often incorrect sleeping posture can further enhance body and back pain. To get restful and healthy sleep and wake up fresh the next day, here are a few tips on how to relieve back pain during pregnancy while sleeping:

What not to do when having back pain

While we have already enlightened you on what to do here is a quick look at what not to do to increase back pain:

Also Read: Back Fat Exercises: Expert Tips for Effective Workouts

Conclusion

Aside from the do’s and don’ts mentioned above keep an eye out for radiating pain or neurological problems such as numbness or even muscle weakness which might then call for an expert consultation as these qualify under severe back pain during pregnancy. Consult your doctor to understand the right exercises for you during pregnancy.

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

2
1

What Is Killing Our Women? Things To be Considered Immediately!

Women’s Health

Though worldwide the life expectancy of females at birth is more than men – 68.2 years for men and 73.2 years for women, in India, however, the life expectancy for both sexes is the same, and yet, there are many reasons as to why women die sooner due to negligence over the years.

Women’s Health is linked to the status of women in society and the culture that brews within this structure. There are a lot of health issues that mushroom from the socio-economic scenario. There are Women’s Health issues that women face which include breast cancer, ovarian cancer, PCOS, menopause, and others but there are a few health conditions that we tend to ignore or overlook that are killing our women.

Also Read: Benefits of CoQ10 for Women: Insights from Scientific Research

Heart disease is the No. 1 cause of death for women. Symptoms of a heart attack include chest pain, shortness of breath and weakness in arms. Women are also likely to experience shortness of breath, and nausea or vomiting. However, women may not recognize their symptoms as a heart attack, and dismiss it as working out too hard or having heartburn.

Dr. M.G. Kartheeka, MBBS, MD

These include; death during childbirth, illiteracy and ignorance, violent attacks on women, etc.

Overall, these factors adversely impact women’s health; mental and physical well-being. Further, a woman’s ill health affects not only her as an individual, but her family suffers too.

Women are more likely to experience bone ailments than males since they typically have smaller, thinner bones. Almost 80% of Indian women suffer from bone thinning. The danger of osteoporosis, which can lead to joint pain and easily cracked bones, rises with bone density loss.

Dr. Ashish Bajaj – M.B.B.S, M.D.

Also Read: POCD VS PCOS – Understand the Difference

As a society, we need to actively work towards providing our women with good health because a healthy woman ensures a healthy family. Women are not the weaker sex; society has made them so. We need more awareness drives, camps that educate rural women on the issues mentioned above, campaigns and projects that will help change mindsets and help save our women!

Also Read: How To Increase Female Libido Rapidly

Disclaimer: The information provided here is for educational/awareness purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for medical treatment by a healthcare professional and should not be relied upon to diagnose or treat any medical condition. The reader should consult a registered medical practitioner to determine the appropriateness of the information and before consuming any medication. PharmEasy does not provide any guarantee or warranty (express or implied) regarding the accuracy, adequacy, completeness, legality, reliability or usefulness of the information; and disclaims any liability arising thereof.

Links and product recommendations in the information provided here are advertisements of third-party products available on the website. PharmEasy does not make any representation on the accuracy or suitability of such products/services. Advertisements do not influence the editorial decisions or content. The information in this blog is subject to change without notice. The authors and administrators reserve the right to modify, add, or remove content without notification. It is your responsibility to review this disclaimer regularly for any changes.

3
1