Tag: PREGNANCY

In 2017, clinical guidelines from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology revised the thresholds to diagnose high blood pressure from 140/90 mm Hg to 130/80 mm Hg for stage 1, and from 160/110 mm Hg to 140/90 mm Hg for stage 2 hypertension…reports Asian Lite News

The number of individuals who had chronic hypertension or chronic high blood pressure during pregnancy doubled between 2008 and 2021 in the US, researchers said on Monday.

Treatment rates for chronic hypertension during pregnancy remained relatively low but stable during the same time, with only about 60 per cent of the individuals receiving (filling prescriptions for) antihypertensive medications, according to the new research published in Hypertension, a peer-reviewed journal of the American Heart Association.

Chronic hypertension in pregnancy is defined as high blood pressure diagnosed before pregnancy or before 20 weeks of pregnancy. Preeclampsia typically begins after 20 weeks of pregnancy, can cause liver or kidney damage, and may double a woman’s chances for future heart failure and other cardiovascular complications.

“While the rate of hypertension in pregnancy has doubled, the use of medication for treatment remained stable at only 60 per cent, which we believe is likely below what it should be if patients are treated according to clinical guidelines,” said lead study author Stephanie Leonard from Stanford University’s School of Medicine.

In 2017, clinical guidelines from the American Heart Association and the American College of Cardiology revised the thresholds to diagnose high blood pressure from 140/90 mm Hg to 130/80 mm Hg for stage 1, and from 160/110 mm Hg to 140/90 mm Hg for stage 2 hypertension.

“We had hoped to see some impact from the 2017 guideline, which reduced the blood pressure threshold for treatment of hypertension. We were surprised to not find any meaningful changes from before and after the guideline,” said Leonard.

This study highlights the growing burden of chronic hypertension and poor cardiovascular health pre-pregnancy as critical targets to improve maternal health, said the researchers.

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Regular scans are not just medical check-ups; they are windows into the miracle of life unfolding. These scans and tests help healthcare providers assess the health and development of the foetus, detect any potential abnormalities early, and provide appropriate care and counselling to expecting parents…reports Asian Lite News

The first trimester of pregnancy is like stepping onto a roller coaster of change, where the only certainty is the uncertainty that comes with this transformative journey. As the body works tirelessly to create a nurturing environment for the growing baby, a whirlwind of emotions and physical adjustments takes centre stage.

Swapnil Kaushik, the founder of Mom’s Preg-Ladder says, “The surge in estrogen as well as HCG levels, surpassing the production of a non-pregnant lifetime, can lead to mood swings, bloating, nausea, and fatigue. While the baby bump might not be evident, the uterus is expanding, and blood volume is on the rise. It’s a time that brings both excitement and nervousness, and it’s perfectly normal to feel overwhelmed. Seeking support from friends, partners, or healthcare providers becomes a lifeline for expecting mothers as they navigate the complexities of this initial trimester.

As an internationally recognised childbirth educator, certified pregnancy health coach, and recognised expert on maternal and child nutrition coaching by the Government of India, Kaushik offers the following advice to soon-to-be mothers throughout the first trimester:

Knowledge is empowerment

Taking an early pregnancy class can be a game-changer. These classes provide invaluable insights into the changes happening within the body and equip expecting mothers with the knowledge to handle the upcoming challenges. From nutrition tips to coping mechanisms, these classes offer a comprehensive guide to making the first trimester more manageable.

Do get regular scans

Regular scans are not just medical check-ups; they are windows into the miracle of life unfolding. These scans and tests help healthcare providers assess the health and development of the foetus, detect any potential abnormalities early, and provide appropriate care and counselling to expecting parents. It’s essential for expecting parents to discuss with their healthcare provider which scans and tests are recommended for their specific situation.

Take proper rest

While staying active is encouraged during pregnancy, it’s essential to listen to your body. If morning sickness is making the usual routine challenging, don’t hesitate to rest. Also, taking short naps in the afternoon can be rejuvenating and help combat the fatigue that often accompanies the first trimester.

Prioritize well-being

Whether working or not, expectant mothers need to pay attention to various aspects of their lifestyle. Managing travel, reducing stress levels, maintaining a balanced nutrition plan, and staying well-hydrated are key components of ensuring a healthy first trimester and a thriving pregnancy.

Encourage open communication

An open line of communication with both your partner and healthcare provider is crucial. Sharing your experiences, concerns, and joys helps build a strong support system. This communication fosters a sense of togetherness, making the journey through the first trimester and beyond a shared experience.

Cultivate good reading habits

Reading about pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting can provide a sense of comfort and preparedness. Books, articles, and reputable online resources offer insights into what to expect, calming fears, and providing practical advice for navigating the challenges of pregnancy.

Meditation and pranayama

As the body undergoes physical changes, it’s equally important to nurture the mind. Incorporating meditation or pranayama into the daily routine can help manage stress, promote relaxation, and create a positive mindset. These practices contribute not only to the well-being of the mother but also to the developing baby.

Start womb talks

Begin the beautiful practice of ‘womb talks.’ While the baby may not understand the words, the vibrations and soothing tones create a unique bonding experience. This early connection lays the foundation for a strong parent-child relationship and introduces the baby to the comforting sounds of their parent’s voice.

Moreover, navigating the first trimester requires a combination of self-care, knowledge, and emotional support. Expecting mothers are not alone in this journey and with the right tools and a supportive network, they can embrace the changes with confidence, paving the way for a healthy and joyful pregnancy.

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Increased pressure on the stomach by the baby in later pregnancy stages can also be a cause. This may also happen if you ‘eat for two,’ as being full can make you more prone to indigestion…reports Asian Lite News

Pregnancy can be an exciting time in many women’s lives. While it can be joyous, this 9-month journey may also feel like a rollercoaster for some, coming with certain challenges. While most moms-to-be focus their energy on trying to tick all the right boxes to keep their baby healthy, it’s also important for them to pay attention to their health.

Over this period, a woman’s body experiences various changes – from swollen ankles to morning sickness (nausea), which is experienced by around 70 percent of all pregnant women in the world.  Another common complaint during pregnancy is of acid reflux or heartburn, which is often described as a burning sensation in the chest or when you feel full, heavy, or bloated. This is seen in roughly 30 to 50 percent of pregnancies and affects as high as 80 percent of women by their third trimester.

If you’re wondering why this is common during pregnancy, experts believe that there are a few potential factors – including the body’s hormonal changes during this time. Increased pressure on the stomach by the baby in later pregnancy stages can also be a cause. This may also happen if you ‘eat for two,’ as being full can make you more prone to indigestion.

Dr. Alka Jain, MBBS MS (Obs& Gynae), Sehgal Neo Hospital, New Delhi said, “Acid reflux is quite common during pregnancy. Most of the time, its symptoms are usually mild and manageable. However, as this sensation can cause discomfort, it is useful for expecting mothers and their caregivers to understand the steps they can take and solutions available to relieve these symptoms. Lifestyle and diet changes along with safe and effective antacid option scan help provide much-needed relief. In case these issues are prolonged or difficult to manage, consulting a doctor is also advised.” Here are a few simple steps you can take to relieve heartburn:

Avoid triggers: Eliminate foods that trigger acidity. These commonly include fatty, fried, and spicy foods, chocolate, mint, and foods with high acidic content (like oranges, grapefruits, lemons, and grapes).  More so, avoid triggers like caffeinated and carbonated beverages (like coffee and soda).  You should also stop smoking and consuming alcohol while pregnant – not only do this cause indigestion, but they can also affect your health and that of your unborn baby.

Eat better: Have a healthy, balanced diet and pay attention to how you feel after eating different foods so you can note any triggers. Try having small meals often, as large meals can make heartburn symptoms worse. Further, make sure you sit up straight while you eat so there isn’t extra pressure on your stomach.

Change your sleeping habits: Wait three hours after a meal to go to bed (and try not to eat too late at night!), and avoid wearing tight-fitting clothes. Sleeping on your left side, elevating the head of your bed, and avoiding posture changes can also help keep your acidity symptoms at bay.  Adding to this, since irregular sleep timings or less sleep can trigger acidity, try getting at least six to seven hours of shut-eye every night.

Identify sources of relief: There are solutions that also help offer relief from heartburn. For example, antacid medication sare treatment option for acidity, when symptoms aren’t addressed with lifestyle modifications. In case you face any symptoms of acidity, it’s always best to see your doctor.

Dr.JejoeKarankumar, Director, Medical Affairs at Abbott said, “Every woman’s pregnancy journey is different. At Abbott, we are committed to building awareness and empowering women to stay healthy during pregnancy. It’s important to minimize any discomfort, such as common acid reflux problems, by following healthy lifestyle habits and utilizing available solutions which can help relieve symptoms of acidity.”

Dr .Jejoe Karankumar, Director, Medical Affairs at Abbott said, “Every woman’s pregnancy journey is different. At Abbott, we are committed to building awareness and empowering women to stay healthy during pregnancy. It’s important to minimize any discomfort, such as common acid reflux problems, by following healthy lifestyle habits and utilizing available solutions which can help relieve symptoms of acidity.”

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Her anxiety and stress levels may be clouding her judgement and affecting how she cares for the baby. Hence, both the mother and child should be kept under observation for a few days…writes Dr. Gauri Agarwal…reports Asian Lite News

Preterm birth, defined as a baby born before 37 weeks of pregnancy, is a leading cause of infant death and can result in long-term disabilities for those who survive. Each year, approximately 1 million children die as a result of preterm birth complications. According to the World Health Organization, many survivors will live with disabilities for the rest of their lives, including learning disabilities and vision and hearing problems. India is at the top of the list of countries with the most preterm births.

Reasons for complications

Preterm birth can occur due to a number of reasons. The majority of preterm births occur naturally. Multiple pregnancies, infections, placenta abruption (separation of the placenta from the uterus), less amniotic fluid and chronic conditions such as diabetes and high blood pressure are all common causes of preterm birth; however, in many cases, no cause is identified. Sometimes, genetic factors are also responsible for preterm delivery.

Warning Signs

Regular or frequent abdominal tightening (contractions), constant backache, a sensation of pelvic or lower abdominal pressure, and mild abdominal cramps are all signs of preterm labour. Vaginal spotting or light bleeding may occur in some cases, while others may notice a change in the type of vaginal discharge, watery, mucus-like, or bloody.

Placental Abruption, High BP, and Less Amniotic fluid are major causes of preterm deliveries

Yes, all of these factors contribute to preterm birth. Women should avoid it by quitting smoking and abstaining from drugs. Blood pressure and diabetes should be kept at the optimum level. Women should also take health and safety precautions such as wearing a seat belt and notifying their doctor if they experience any abdominal trauma or vaginal bleeding.

How to avoid a preterm delivery?

During pregnancy, a woman should keep in touch with her doctor at all times. If she has any risk factors for preterm birth, such as having previously delivered a premature baby or having a problem with her uterus or cervix, she should tell the doctor right away. After consulting with their doctor, pregnant women can be advised some hormone supplementation or sometimes surgical procedure along with folic acid to prevent preterm birth. If you and your baby are both healthy, you should wait until at least 39 weeks to start labour on your own.

Factors to keep in mind if in case it’s a preterm delivery

When compared to normal babies, premature babies require more medical attention. The cause of preterm delivery and how early the baby was delivered determine the level of care. Preterm babies may have birth-related issues that necessitate specialised medical attention. They usually have breathing problems, low immunity, and are prone to infections, viral infections, and jaundice. They may have serious health issues such as sepsis, brain haemorrhage, or other conditions that necessitate special attention. Premature birth has a significant impact on a mother’s health, and she too requires specialised care. Her anxiety and stress levels may be clouding her judgement and affecting how she cares for the baby. Hence, both the mother and child should be kept under observation for a few days.

Tips for a safe & healthy pregnancy

It is critical to live a healthy lifestyle in order to have a safe and healthy pregnancy. Tobacco, smoking, e-cigarettes, and secondhand smoke should all be avoided. Don’t drink alcohol while trying to conceive or while pregnant. Avoid using illegal drugs and abusing prescription medications. Consume a well-balanced diet rich in iron and folic acid. Make an effort to be active every day: aim for 30 minutes of exercise per day. Blood pressure and diabetes should be controlled. To avoid becoming obese, lose weight; if you are underweight, gain weight. Reduce stress by practicing yoga, meditation, being active, joining support groups, balancing work and life, and working on a healthy relationship with your partner free of violence.

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