Categories
Health Lite Blogs

First Trimester: A Roller Coaster Ride of Change and Uncertainty

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.

ALSO READ-What’s driving the mass exodus of pregnant women from Russia

Categories
Health Lite Blogs

Acidity during pregnancy

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.”

ALSO READ-Mental health to ensure a healthy pregnancy

Categories
Bollywood Films Lite Blogs

Bollywood stars on cover of fashion glossy for maternity shoot

Anita Hassanandani shared a pictures and a behind-the-scenes video from her pregnancy photoshoot on Instagram while she was expecting her first child with Rohit Reddy…writes Olivia Sarkar

While maternity photo shoots have always been popular in the West, they have only recently gained ground with Indian Celebrities. It now comes as no surprise when you spot a pregnant Bollywood star on the cover of a fashion glossy for a maternity shoot, or private shoots of growing baby bumps published on their own social media handles.

Leading actor Alia Bhatt’s growing baby bump raises expectations regarding whether the star will have a baby shoot and make it public, and if so, what kind of aesthetic would she choose. Here’s a fun retrospective of the various styles of maternity shoots opted for by celebrities.

Sonam Kapoor Ahuja

Trust actress Sonam Kapoor to keep it ultra-glamorous and stylish for her maternity shoot with Vogue. The black and white series complete with a ball gown and tuxedo jacket were her choice for a formal look, while the classic white shirt was dolled up with dark lipstick for a more a more casual style.

Anushka Sharma

Our favourite so far, fun, feminine and cheerful, Anushka Sharma glowed on the pages of a fashion glossy in full bloom. Sharma opted for a casual photoshoot– a white shirt, a trench coat and a dress showing of her bump was all this star needed to make magic happen.

Kareena Kapoor Khan

After giving birth to her second son, actress Kareena Kapoor Khan published a lot of pictures on Instagram and even participated in a pregnant photo session with a sports brand.

Lisa Haydon

Dino Lalvani and actress Lisa Haydon welcomed Zack Lalvani into the world in May 2017. The surfer girl has posted a lot of pictures of herself while she was pregnant on Instagram, and was also featured on the cover of Elle Magazine’s May 2017 issue and on Harper’s Bazaar. No one can look quite as gorgeous as Haydon in her natural surroundings which are usually a beach and her boys.

Anita Hassanandani

Anita Hassanandani shared a pictures and a behind-the-scenes video from her pregnancy photoshoot on Instagram while she was expecting her first child with Rohit Reddy.

Bipasha Basu

It has been revealed that Bollywood actress Bipasha Basu and her actor husband Karan Singh Grover are expecting their first child. Basu opted for a couple photoshoot and posted a variety of images on Instagram. Bipasha can be seen wearing a white top in one image while her husband Karan can be seen tenderly kissing her growing baby belly.

ALSO READ-‘Brahmastra’ wracks up Rs 224 cr in first weekend

Categories
Lite Blogs Woman

Nike to empower women during phases of pregnancy and beyond

Motherhood’s chronology frequently continues past nine months. In reality, managing motherhood from before conception through pregnancy and postpartum can take up to 10 years for many women who have more than one kid…reports Asian Lite News

Mothers are the best endurance athletes, among many other things. Nike (M), which was first introduced in 2020, has now been expanded to empower women worldwide throughout all phases of pregnancy and beyond.

Nike (M), exemplifies the brand’s inclusive design ethos, was developed by analysing data from more than 150,000 comparative scans of pregnant and non-pregnant women. Nearly 30 female athletes who were pregnant or postpartum provided extensive feedback on fit, feel, and functionality to designers throughout the design process.

Nike Dri-FIT (M) Tank Nike Dri-FIT (M) Pullover

“Being a mother isn’t a one size fits all role, and we applied that mindset with our inclusive design approach while creating the Nike (M) collection,” says Carmen Zolman, Nike VP of Innovation Apparel Design. “The more we listened to expecting mothers and postpartum mothers, the more we learned and reworked the capsule to fully support her relationship with sport and movement during such a transformative time in her life.”

Undoubtedly, one of the most significant life-altering bodily experiences is giving birth. Every mom’s journey and recovery is unique, whether she is a biological mom, surrogate mom, adoptive mom, adoptive stepmom, or another type of mom. Motherhood’s chronology frequently continues past nine months. In reality, managing motherhood from before conception through pregnancy and postpartum can take up to 10 years for many women who have more than one kid.

Nike Dri-FIT Swoosh (M) Bra

It can be challenging for expectant and new mothers to find the support they require to find sport and continue to move around after giving birth, as motherhood also marks a new chapter in a woman’s relationship with her body and with sport. The brand was created and tested for moms, by mothers, so that she may move anyway she pleased during the duration of her pregnancy.

ALSO READ-Nike New Advert Fuels Hope

Categories
Health Lite Blogs

Never make it too ‘complicated’

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.

ALSO READ-‘Three thousand years of longing’ gets six-minute standing ovation

Categories
Health Lite Blogs

Stress during pregnancy?

It could lead to preeclampsia, miscarriage, premature birth, and low birth rate. Thus, it is important to look after the mental well-being and take care of the physical health of the mother during pregnancy…reports Dr N Sapna Lulla

It is common for an expectant mother to feel stressed about pregnancy, especially those who are pregnant for the first time. It can bring up a range of emotions and anxieties. Being concerned about having a healthy pregnancy is not a bad thing because it can push people to take action in the face of new challenges.

However, when the stress becomes too overwhelming, it could lead to health problems for the mother and the baby. Hence, it is necessary to consult with your doctor for a smooth and risk-free pregnancy.

Understanding the common causes of stress during pregnancy

Finding out that they are pregnant can be a stressful experience in itself for some women. Stress arises mostly in unplanned pregnancy. Other factors such as fear of pregnancy loss, fear of labour and delivery, financial problems, uncomfortable physical changes like nausea, tiredness, mood swings, and backaches, miscarriage, and fear of taking care of the baby when the baby is born could lead to stress among pregnant women.

It’s important for mothers to keep herself stress free

Maternal stress or anxiety during pregnancy can affect the fetus, causing possible long-term consequences for infant and child development. Chronic stress can affect the mother’s health and can cause headaches, problems sleeping, fast breathing, and a racing pulse.

Also, it could lead to preeclampsia, miscarriage, premature birth, and low birth rate. Thus, it is important to look after the mental well-being and take care of the physical health of the mother during pregnancy.

Risks of stress to your baby and pregnancy are;


. Preeclampsia: Research shows that if you already have high blood pressure, you’re at greater risk of getting preeclampsia during pregnancy. Preeclampsia is a potentially dangerous pregnancy complication characterised by high blood pressure. It usually begins after 20 weeks of pregnancy in a woman whose blood pressure had been normal. It can lead to complications for both mother and baby.

. Miscarriage: Also known as spontaneous abortion, it can be both physically and emotionally painful. Research shows that women who had major negative life events or psychological stress exposure were twice as likely to have early miscarriages. The stressers of pregnancy can trigger depression in some people. To cope up, people use harmful substances like alcohol, tobacco, and drugs. These can increase the risk of certain pregnancy complications, including miscarriage.

. Preterm birth and low birth rate: Studies show that mothers who experience more stress are more likely to go into labourearly.Stress can increase the chances of having a premature baby (born before 37 weeks of pregnancy) or a low-birthweight baby (who weigh less than 5 and a half lb (2.5 kg or 2500 g) at birth). Chronic stress can lead to long-term changes in the body’s vascular system, hormone levels, and the ability to fight infection. All these, can potentially influence labour to start before the baby is full-term.

Post-delivery complications

Some studies show that high levels of stress during pregnancy could lead to a higher chance of the child developing attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD). Stress may also affect the baby’s brain development or immune system.

Tips to manage stress during pregnancy

Here are some ways to help you reduce stress:

. Remember all the discomforts you experience during pregnancy are temporary. Learn how to manage and deal with the discomforts. One can talk to someone who knows about pregnancy or your doctor

. Eat healthy, take enough rest, sleep and exercise

.To help manage the stress, one can try relaxation activities, like prenatal yoga or meditation

. Read a lot about pregnancy so you know what to expect during pregnancy and when your baby arrives.

. Plan ahead and don’t miss any appointments.

ALSO READ-World’s first Ayurvedic FemTech brand partners with Taapsee Pannu

Categories
COVID-19 Lifestyle Lite Blogs

Covid infections and pregnancy

The study suggested that vaccination may be useful to protect women and their babies, particularly for women at a higher risk of developing severe Covid-19 infections…reports Asian Lite News

Pregnant women with Covid-19 are more likely to have complications with pregnancy and birth compared to those without, according to a study.

The study, published in the open-access journal PLOS Medicine, showed that women with Covid-19 had a higher frequency of admission to ICU; death; preeclampsia and eclampsia; gestational hypertension; hemorrhage either before or after birth; very premature spontaneous or induced birth; and cesarean section.

“However, rates of pregnancy terminations, stillbirths, gestational diabetes, placenta previa, placental abruption, and blood clots were not increased,” said Sylvie Epelboin and team from the Universite de Paris.

“Being aware of these complications is important for health care providers to support pregnant women and provide the best care,” the researchers added.

A team of researchers analysed data for hospitalisations for birth after 22 weeks gestation in France between January and June 2020. Of 244,465 births in hospital, 874 or 0.36 per cent of mothers had been diagnosed with Covid-19.

Women in the Covid-19 group were more likely to be older, have obesity, be carrying more than one baby, or have a history of high blood pressure compared to those without.

The study suggested that vaccination may be useful to protect women and their babies, particularly for women at a higher risk of developing severe Covid-19 infections.

Another recent study by Cleveland Clinic in the US showed that Covid infection during pregnancy leads to distinct immune changes in mothers and babies. The researchers found that the infectious virus dysregulates maternal immune response, with different immune signatures between mothers with asymptomatic and severe disease.

Initially SARS-CoV-2 infection during pregnancy was not associated with significant adverse effects.

But later, data have shown that pregnant women are at increased risk of developing severe Covid-19, and they are also nearly twice as likely to die from Covid-19 as women the same age who aren’t pregnant, according to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

In its recent Morbidity and Mortality Weekly Report, the US CDC published two new studies highlighting the increased risks faced by pregnant women infected by SARS-CoV-2 — particularly after the emergence of the Delta (B1617.2) variant. One study showed that the Delta Covid variant nearly doubled the risk of stillbirth, while the other showed five times the risk of death.

ALSO READ-Scientific process of rest and recovery

Categories
Health Lite Blogs

Saffron magic during pregnancy

Pregnancy affects blood pressure levels as the blood circulation usually increases during this time. When taken in small amounts, saffron significantly reduces your blood pressure…writes N. Lothungbeni humtsoe

No matter whether it’s your first time, second, or third pregnancy, it’s one of the most cherished times in a woman’s life. It’s an emotion that cannot be described in words.

Motherhood is undeniably a life-changing experience but it comes with great responsibility too. When you find out your pregnant, the first thing that probably comes to mind is taking care of your overall health and of the little one growing inside of you. Being healthy becomes very important to you. A balanced diet, good habits, and being happy are important; however, amid these, saffron is highly recommended during the nine months. Saffron aka Kesar is an exotic spice, derived painstakingly from the flowers of Crocus sativus, which usually forms a part of several Ayurvedic recipes and has numerous health benefits. Ayush Aggarwal, Founder and CEO of Rasayanam, shares all you need to know about how it helps you during your pregnancy.

Tackles your mood swings

Mood swings have always been the most common issue that women face during these nine months. It’s due to a variety of factors such as rapid hormonal changes or the physical discomforts of pregnancy. At one moment, you might be on top of the world, at another, you might find yourself rolled into one corner of your bed with tears in your eyes. These mood swings make you short-tempered and irritable. Saffron works wonders as it produces serotonin, which modulates your mood by amplifying the blood flow in your body. This helps you cope up with your emotional ups and downs, and lets you remain in high spirits.

Let’s you sleep well

All the physical discomforts that you feel during this journey have adverse effects on your sleep. You probably waste a lot of time tossing and turning around all night, while all you had to was drink a warm glass of saffron milk. It soothes anxiety and uplifts your overall mood, therefore, helping you sleep well.

Relieves cramps

Cramps occur more frequently because of the hormonal changes that a mother-to-be goes through during pregnancy. They can be mild and bearable or at times, severe and intolerable. These can easily be prevented. The exotic spice, saffron, acts as a painkiller to relieve the pain and soothes all the muscles in your body.

Reduces high blood pressure

Pregnancy affects blood pressure levels as the blood circulation usually increases during this time. When taken in small amounts, saffron significantly reduces your blood pressure. High blood pressure leads to hypertension, which is common during these months. Saffron rescues you from it.

Boost heart function

All those junk food cravings during pregnancy surely increase your calorie intake, which, in turn, increases your cholesterol levels and affects cardiovascular health. Saffron helps in reducing cholesterol levels. Thus, protect your and your baby’s heart health. The substances in saffron prevent the clogging of arteries and increase the oxygen levels in your body.

Prevents allergies

Allergies and infections are bound to happen when you are pregnant. Saffron potentially helps you in fighting all the seasonal allergies, difficulty in breathing, chest congestion, and more. This magic spice is sure to free you from all the unwanted diseases in your body.

Saffron is packed with amazing benefits, especially for pregnant women. Consuming a small quantity of it is safe and very beneficial for your overall health. It has no side effects as long as it has been taken in the right quantities. It’s advisable to consult with your doctor.

ALSO READ-Healthy eating for skin in Winter

Categories
Bollywood Lite Blogs

Kareena urges people to not make a taboo of late pregnancy

Kareena was 36 when she welcomed her first child Taimur with Saif Ali Khan in 2016. After five years, in February 2021, she turned mother again as she gave birth to her son Jeh…reports Asian Lite News.

Kareena Kapoor Khan, the mother of two children, has urged people to not make a taboo of late pregnancy. “I never planned having a baby because you know I was like in 36 or Oh my biological clock is ticking so I need to speed it up or whatever. That was not even a thought or discussion because I was like I married Saif for love. I did that. I wanted to have a child so I did it. It so happened. I didn’t give much thought because my thought was always on my work and you know being happy and content with myself. So I don’t think late mothers should have this pressure,” Kareena said.

Kareena was 36 when she welcomed her first child Taimur with Saif Ali Khan in 2016. After five years, in February 2021, she turned mother again as she gave birth to her son Jeh. During the latest episode of the ‘Raising Parents with Mansi Zaveri’ podcast, Kareena also opened up about how she balances her time between the two kids. “I think that the fact is that I am a very calm person, I am very composed. I divide my time well. Like I know Taimur needs me at this point in time. You know I am lucky that he now wakes up later than Jeh’s so I know I have to be with Jeh for that hour while he has his breakfast and then once Jeh’s breakfast is done I know Taimur’s time is you know coming in.

 So I just balance it out. The idea is to not have too much pressure on like doing things. The idea is to involve children to take part in your daily life. It’s not like we have to do this and we have to do that. We are not those kind of parents,” she added.
Meanwhile, on the work front, Kareena will be seen sharing screen space with Aamir Khan in ‘Laal Singh Chaddha’, which is scheduled to release in 2022. (ANI)

ALSO READ-‘From Nazneen to Naina’ depicts 20 years of Kareena’s life

READ MORE-Kareena shares ‘lazy last day’ pics

Categories
COVID-19 Health Lite Blogs

Covid vaccination and pregnancy

Pregnant women who have recovered from Covid-19 are eligible for vaccination. Among such individuals, vaccination should be differed for 12 weeks from the infection or 8 weeks after recovery…writes Puja Gupta.

Covid is a global pandemic which has spread around the world. The healthcare infrastructure is facing an enormous burden due to the Covid pandemic. Vaccination against the virus will reduce the risk of infection, severity, long-term effect of the infection and transmission to other individuals. In a recent guideline, the government has approved the vaccination for pregnant women.

This is a very progressive step as it will affect 50 million lives in India, say doctors, adding that every individual needs protection from the surging Covid-19 infections, and vaccination seems to be the best and long-term solution. Now all mothers-to-be can be protected from Covid-19. The benefits of vaccinating pregnant women seem to far outweigh any theoretical and remote risk of vaccination.

Sonal Kumta, Senior Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Fortis Hospital Mulund, and Manjiri Mehta, Consultant Gynaecologist & Obstetrician, Hiranandani Hospital Vashi, share a few things that pregnant women must know about vaccination.

THE NEED FOR PREGNANT WOMEN TO BE VACCINATED

First, it is important to note that pregnancy does not increase the risk of Covid-19 infection. Most pregnant women will be asymptomatic or have a mild disease, but their health may deteriorate rapidly and that might affect the foetus. It is also important that they take all precautions to protect themselves from being infected, and that certainly includes vaccination against Covid-19. It is therefore advised that a pregnant woman should take the vaccine.

Covid-19 IMPACT ON PREGNANT WOMEN

Although most (>90 per cent) infected pregnant women recover without any need for hospitalization, rapid deterioration in health may occur in a few. Symptomatic pregnant women appear to be at an increased risk of severe disease and death. In case of severe disease, like all other patients, pregnant women shall also need hospitalization. Moreover, pregnant women with underlying medical conditions e.g., high blood pressure, obesity, age over 35 years, etc are at a higher risk.

RECOVERED PREGNANT WOMEN WITH COVID INFECTION


Pregnant women who have recovered from Covid-19 are eligible for vaccination. Among such individuals, vaccination should be differed for 12 weeks from the infection or 8 weeks after recovery.

SIDE EFFECTS OF THE VACCINES

The available Covid-19 vaccines are safe, and vaccination protects pregnant women against illness/disease like other individuals. Like any medicine, a vaccine may have side effects which are normally mild. After getting the vaccine injection, she can get a mild fever, pain at the injection site, or feel unwell for 1-3 days.

If you are confused about whether to receive a Covid-19 vaccine while pregnant, consider:

* Your risk of exposure to Covid-19

* The risks of severe illness

* The known benefits of vaccination

*The limited but growing evidence about the safety of vaccinations during pregnancy

VACCINE REGISTRATION FOR PREGNANT WOMEN


All pregnant women need to register themselves on the CoWIN portal or may get themselves registered on-site at the Covid-19 vaccination centre. The process of registration for pregnant women remains the same as of the general population and as per the latest guidance provided by the MoHFW. The need of the hour is to arrange for on-site consultation by Gynecologists, especially for those not registered for ante-natal (pre-delivery) care. We should also maintain a registry of vaccinated pregnant women for long-term follow-up and data collection.

PRECAUTIONS TO BE TAKEN

* Wear a double mask

* Practice frequent handwashing

* Maintain physical distance and avoid going to crowded places

Please note, if a pregnant woman has already had Covid-19, she should be vaccinated soon after the delivery. Moreover, speak to your doctor and discuss all your doubts. Also, note that if you are trying to get pregnant now or in the future, would-be parents can receive the Covid-19 vaccine. There is currently no evidence that any vaccines, including the Covid-19 vaccines, cause female or male fertility problems–problems getting pregnant. Most importantly, you cannot get Covid-19 infection from vaccination!

ALSO READ-UK Begins Covid Booster Vaccine Rollout

READ MORE-95% surge in public trust in UAE’s Covid measures