ARTICLES ON Women Health

Introduction Pregnancy is said to be high risk when it is often complicated by medical conditions that pose a threat to the well-being of the mother and the child. The risk associated with pregnancy is greater for anyone who is younger than 20 or older than 35. Several factors make a pregnancy high-risk, like age, lifestyle, general health, and genetics. This article provides essential information about managing a high-risk pregnancy after the age of 35. Understanding the Risks Before deciding to get pregnant after 35 years, it is crucial to understand all the risks that come with it. This is essential to prevent complications and be prepared. Some issues you might face are as follows: 1. It is more difficult to conceive: Every woman is born with a finite number of eggs, which keep decreasing throughout her life. From the mid to late thirties, the quality and quantity of your eggs start decreasing significantly, making it more difficult for them to be fertilized. 2. Higher chances of multiple pregnancies: Because of the hormonal changes happening at this age, there is a higher chance of releasing more than one egg in a single cycle, ultimately resulting in a multiple pregnancy. Also, since a good number of late pregnancies happen by artificial techniques, there is a higher incidence of twin pregnancies. 3. More chance of developing gestational diabetes: Gestational diabetes occurs only at the time of pregnancy. The risk of this type of diabetes is higher in older women. Gestational diabetes increases the likelihood of conceiving a child that may grow abnormally or be delivered prematurely. Hence, it is very important to follow a proper diet and take medications to treat gestational diabetes. 4. Higher risk of a premature birth: With older age, the chances of delivering an underweight baby increase as well. Premature babies are often more prone to complications. 5. Decreased possibility of vaginal birth: With all the impending complications, a C-section is often the recommended mode of delivery in such cases. 6. High risk of miscarriage: The risk of miscarriage and stillbirth directly increases with advanced age. This could be due to compromised egg quantity or other pre-existing medical ailments. 7. Increased possibility of chromosomal disorders. With an elderly mother, there is a significant increase in the chance of the baby developing any chromosomal aberrations like Down’s Syndrome. Precautionary Measures If you wish to plan for a pregnancy after 35, make sure to take proper measures to prevent complications. Here are some things you can do: 1. Take preconception vitamins: Start planning visits to your doctor right when you start planning your pregnancy. Getting regular preconception vitamins goes a long way in preventing any congenital abnormalities in the child. 2. Stay consistent with your check-ups: Make sure that you get all your scheduled tests and attend all your appointments. Monitoring the growth of the fetus is extremely important in a high-risk pregnancy. Identifying any problem as early as possible can help avoid complications. Make sure you are vaccinated when needed. 3. Eat healthy: As said earlier, gestational diabetes and general health concerns play a major role in complicating the high-risk pregnancy further. Eating a well-planned diet with good nutrition is very important to stay clear of such complications. 4. Prenatal testing: Currently, there are several options to check for chromosomal aberrations in the fetus. Enquire about such tests and do them if necessary. Recent advances in radio-diagnosis can also help determine very minute discrepancies in the fetus. Important Signs to Look For: Your healthcare professional will clearly explain when you will have to visit the hospital, and the signs considered an emergency. Here are a few signs of complications in high-risk pregnancies: Vaginal bleeding or abnormal discharge Abdominal pain Decreased fetal movements Severe headaches Disturbances in vision Sudden swelling in the face, fingers, and hand Fever or chills Severe vomiting The Well-Being of the Mother At Wockhardt Hospitals Mira Road, we ensure that all expectant mothers get enough reassurance and care from the treating physicians. We have dedicated a good amount of our time to researching how we can deliver the best possible care to expectant mothers, and ensure they embark on their journey to motherhood stress-free. By effectively implementing this principle in our healthcare services, so we have consequently observed a significant improvement in the overall success and outcomes of high-risk pregnancies over time. By reducing stress and preventing complications associated with a high-risk pregnancy, we have helped several women above 35 years of age conceive. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs): Q1. What genetic tests can I get done? The commonly done tests include amniocentesis and chorionic villi sampling (CVS). Amniocentesis studies the fluid that surrounds the fetus in the uterus, usually after fifteen weeks of pregnancy. Amniocentesis can detect genetic conditions and defects in the brain or spinal cord.CVS studies the sample of cells from the placenta, usually done between the 1 0th and 13th week of pregnancy. Q2. What are the risky substances I should avoid when trying to conceive? Any form of tobacco, like e-cigarettes, poses a significant threat. Steer clear of alcohol and any kind of illegal substances. Make sure to consult with your doctor about any regular medications that you may be taking, as certain medicines and supplements may be harmful to the pregnancy. Q3. What are the general health problems that can complicate a high-risk pregnancy? Common medical conditions that tend to increase the risk associated with pregnancy are hypertension, obesity, diabetes, epilepsy, thyroid issues, heart defects, blood disorders, asthma, and other infections. Getting them checked before planning your pregnancy can significantly decrease the chance of developing complications later.

Hypertension, or high blood pressure, during pregnancy, can have serious effects on both the mother and the developing fetus. When a woman has high blood pressure during pregnancy, it is called gestational hypertension or pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH). Potential Effects of High Blood Pressure on the Fetus During Pregnancy Reduced blood flow to the placenta: High blood pressure can cause blood vessels in the placenta to narrow, which can reduce the amount of oxygen and nutrients that the fetus receives. This can lead to growth problems or even stillbirth. Preterm birth: High blood pressure can increase the risk of preterm labor and delivery, which can lead to complications such as respiratory distress syndrome, bleeding in the brain, and other problems. Low birth weight: If the baby doesn’t receive enough oxygen and nutrients due to reduced blood flow to the placenta, he or she may be born with a low birth weight. Placental abruption: In severe cases of hypertension, the placenta can separate from the uterine wall before delivery, which can cause heavy bleeding and endanger the life of both the mother and the baby. Future health risks: Infants born to mothers with high blood pressure during pregnancy may be at increased risk of developing high blood pressure and other health problems later in life. It’s important for pregnant women to receive regular prenatal care and for healthcare providers to monitor blood pressure throughout pregnancy to detect and manage any hypertension. Women with hypertension during pregnancy may require medication and more frequent monitoring to prevent complications and ensure the best possible outcome for both mother and baby. Statistics of Hypertension and Pregnancy Research has extensively studied the relationship between hypertension and pregnancy. Here are some key findings and statistics regarding hypertension and pregnancy: Prevalence: Hypertensive disorders affect approximately 10% of pregnancies worldwide. This includes both pre-existing hypertension (chronic hypertension) and hypertension that develops during pregnancy (gestational hypertension and preeclampsia). Preeclampsia: Preeclampsia is a serious condition characterized by high blood pressure and damage to organs, such as the liver and kidneys. It typically occurs after 20 weeks of pregnancy and can lead to complications for both the mother and the baby. Preeclampsia affects around 2-8% of pregnancies. Gestational Hypertension: Gestational hypertension refers to high blood pressure that develops during pregnancy, typically after 20 weeks, in women who previously had normal blood pressure. It affects about 5-7% of pregnancies. Hypertension, or high blood pressure, during pregnancy, can have serious effects on both the mother and the developing fetus. When a woman has high blood pressure during pregnancy, it is called gestational hypertension or pregnancy-induced hypertension (PIH).

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome/Disease, commonly known as PCOS/PCOD, is the most common hormonal disorder affecting women of reproductive age. This condition is caused by an imbalance of reproductive hormones which can lead to a range of symptoms and complications including irregular periods, infertility and increased risk of metabolic diseases like diabetes and heart disease. Approximately 10-20% Indian females are affected by PCOD. Cause of PCOD is not known but there are several factors that may contribute to its development including: 1. Hormonal imbalances: An increase in androgens (male hormones) in women can lead to the development of PCOD 2. Genetics: PCOD may run in families, indicating a genetic component 3. Insulin resistance: This is a condition in which the body’s cells become less responsive to the effects of insulin (hormone produced by pancreas which control blood sugar levels) leading to elevated levels of insulin in the bloodstream 4. Lifestyle factors: Poor diet and lack of exercise may increase the risk of developing PCOD Symptoms of PCOD can vary from person to person, but some of the most common include irregular or missed periods, acne, weight gain and excess hair growth on the face, chest and abdomen. Women with PCOD may also experience difficulty getting pregnant due to irregular/absent ovulation (release of egg from the ovary). Treatment for PCOD is directed at managing the symptoms and generally includes lifestyle changes (reducing calories and intake of simple carbohydrates and increasing exercise), using birth control pills to regularize the menstrual cycles, reduce acne and excess hair growth. Metformin, a common medication for treating diabetes, is often used to treat insulin resistance and regulate menstrual cycles. Women with PCOD who are trying to conceive, there are several options available: Using medications to stimulate ovulation and In vitro fertilization (IVF) are most commonly used to assist women with PCOD who are struggling with infertility. Dr. Pranav GhodyMD (USA), DM (USA), FACE, CCD Consultant Endocrinologist & Diabetologist

Hansa Raghavani, a 43-year-old woman from Ambernath, Thane, had been battling ovarian and liver metastasis. She had been undergoing chemotherapy at Wockhardt Hospital since March 22, 2022, and had completed 11 cycles by September 27, 2022. However, a PET scan on 10th October 2022 revealed that the large solid cystic abdominal pelvic lesion had increased in size and was now reaching the bilateral adnexal region. Dr. Sanket Mehta, a surgical oncologist at Wockhardt Hospitals in Mumbai, took charge of Hansa’s case and admitted her for further treatment. Despite the severity of her condition, Hansa remained optimistic and was determined to fight cancer. She was surrounded by her family who provided her with all the love and support she needed to overcome the illness. She Fought with All her Might Hansa underwent multiple rounds of chemotherapy, but cancer seemed to be spreading rapidly. With each passing day, Hansa felt her strength waning, but she refused to give up. She was a fighter, and she was not going to let this disease defeat her. One day, after yet another round of chemotherapy, Hansa received some good news. The PET scan showed that the size of the lesion had significantly reduced, and cancer seemed to be in remission. Hansa was overjoyed, and her family celebrated the news with her. But their happiness was short-lived. Cancer had a habit of coming back with a vengeance, and it did so once again. This time, it was even more aggressive and harder to fight. Hansa had to undergo reduction surgery, also part of her liver was removed which was affected due to cancer, she underwent pelvic peritonectomy, splenectomy where her spleen was removed, omentectomy where fatty tissue from her stomach and large intestine was removed, bilateral salphingoopherectomy where both her ovaries and fallopian tubes where removed, total abdominal hysterectomy where in the complete uterus was removed. Despite the odds, Hansa continued to fight with all her might. She was determined to beat cancer and reclaim her life. Her family stood by her every step of the way, providing her with the love and support she needed to keep going. She is Now Cancer Free Finally, after months of battling the disease, Hansa emerged victorious. The PET scan showed that cancer had been completely eradicated, and she has been declared cancer-free. Hansa’s family is overjoyed, and they celebrated this momentous occasion with tears of joy in their eyes. Hansa Raghavani’s story is one of resilience, courage, and determination. Despite the odds, she fought cancer with all her might and emerged victorious. She is a true warrior who continues to inspire many people with her strength and spirit. “The resilience and determination displayed by Hansa in the face of such a complicated cancer battle were truly inspiring. Despite undergoing chemotherapy, radiation, and multiple surgeries involving the removal of 9 organs, her positive spirit never wavered. I have no doubt that her unwavering fighting spirit, combined with the care she received from our team at Wockhardt Hospital, was a major factor in her ultimate victory over the disease,” says Dr. Sanket Mehta, Surgical Oncologist, Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central. Dr. Boman Dhabhar Consultant Onco Physician, Wockhardt Hospitals, comments, “This case is truly a testament to the human spirit and its ability to overcome adversity. Hansa’s unwavering determination and positive attitude inspired us all. Before her surgery, she underwent 11 cycles of chemotherapy to control the spread of cancer in her body. Followed by a Supra major surgery and after this intense battle she came out victorious, it is patients like these that inspire us to work harder and better and make life wins.” “My Children and Husband were my Sources of Strength” Hansa Raghavani, a mother turned beautician, shares, “I never lost faith in my ability to overcome cancer. My children and husband were my sources of strength, and their love gave me the courage to keep fighting. Now that I have been given a new lease on life thanks to Wockhardt Hospital, I am determined to live it to the fullest. My dream is to do bridal makeup for my daughter-in-law and my daughter. I would like to urge everyone not to ignore any symptoms and to visit a doctor as soon as possible so that the chances of a cure are higher.” “Cancer may be a frightening diagnosis, but it is important to remain strong, have faith, and never give up,” she adds.

A 30-year-old woman was admitted to a Mumbai hospital with a complaint of pain in her abdomen, which she had been going through for the last 7-8 days. She also had jaundice. She was given some symptomatic treatment by the local doctors she had visited earlier, but her pain and fever worsened. As her condition deteriorated, she was admitted to Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central, where doctors found multiple stones in her gallbladder and a duct (common bile duct) coming out of the gallbladder. “Any jaundice should at least get an ultrasound exam done along with liver function test,” said Dr. Shankar Zanwar, Consultant Gastroenterologist at Wockhardt Hospital, pointing out that the woman’s condition could have not worsened had she been evaluated earlier. The patient Bhavika Parekh (name changed) said, “Initially the pain was mild as I was taking the jaundice medicines but later the pain aggravated in the epigastric and umbilical region.” When she was admitted to Wockhardt Hospital, she was having nausea, vomiting, intermittent fever with chill, weakness, and giddiness for the past 2 days along with abdomen pain. A total of 30 stones were removed from her bile duct The doctors found her bile duct to be packed with moderate-sized stones (ranging from 8-9mm each). After taking her for endoscopic bile duct removal, they removed a total of 30 stones by endoscopy procedure called ERCP. “To best of our knowledge based on the published literature this is the maximum number of stones removed from the bile duct using ERCP in the region,” Dr. Zanwar said. If the procedure was delayed further, the woman would have landed into sepsis which spread to high-level infection in the bloodstream resulting in low blood pressure and the need for ICU admission or pancreatitis which again can be a serious situation, the doctor noted. “Removal of moderate-sized, multiple stones in the CBD is a complex ERCP procedure which needs proper pre-procedure planning and patients need to be counseled regards to post-procedure complications,” he added. Having repeated symptoms of upper abdominal pain? Get evaluated early Dr. Mehdi Kazerouni, Consultant General Surgeon & Laparoscopic Surgeon, Wockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central said that the early diagnosis of multiple CBD stones with immediate removal of stones via ERCP allowed them to do laparoscopic cholecystectomy (removal of gall bladder) within 48 hours. This quick management saved the patient from possible complications such as cholangitis, pancreatitis, and obstructive jaundice, and she made a remarkable recovery, he added. Dr. Kazerouni advised that patients with repeated symptoms of upper abdominal pain with or without jaundice should be evaluated early so that similar diagnoses can be made, and they can avoid major complications. Dr. Shankar ZanwarConsultant GastroenterologistWockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central Dr. Mehdi KazerouniConsultant General Surgeon & Laparoscopic SurgeonWockhardt Hospital, Mumbai Central To book an appointment call: +918291101001 Source: https://www.thehealthsite.com/diseases-conditions/do-not-ignore-repeated-upper-abdominal-pain-30-stones-removed-from-a-womans-bile-duct-948007/

People with bipolar disorder will experience severe shifts in behavior, thinking, energy, and mood. The condition is more than just having good or bad moods. Bipolar disorder or manic-depressive mood disorder is a mental health problem that requires medical attention. It can lead to severe mood swings, lack of sleep, low energy, inability to think rationally, and changes in behavior too. Sometimes one may feel happy and energized for a few days and other times he/she may feel hopeless, sad, low, sluggish, and irritated for a few days/ months. Types, Signs And Symptoms: Bipolar I disorder: This includes episodes of Mania and Depression. The symptoms of mania are excessive spending, excessive talking, increased energy, grandiose thinking decreased need for sleep, and jumping from one idea to the next one. Bipolar II disorder: You will have a major depressive episode and at least one hypomanic episode (periods of milder manic episodes including being energetic, elated, or irritated moods). Cyclothymic disorder or Cyclothymia: A mild form of bipolar disorder where episodes of hypomania and mild depression may persist for at least two years. Other common red flags of mania in a bipolar patient are restlessness, poor judgment, impulsiveness, loss of appetite, getting distracted very easily, high sex drive, engaging in reckless behaviors, and making unrealistic plans. During depressive episodes, one will be forgetful, sad, talk slowly, have a low sex drive, lose interest in activities that he/she liked, have trouble sleeping and keeping focus and be unenergetic. Bipolar and related problems can also be seen to be associated with alcohol consumption, drug abuse, and conditions like stroke. Treatment: One with bipolar disorder will be suggested medication based on his symptoms: Can Bipolar Disorder Cause Pregnancy Complications? A large number of women with bipolar disorder have a healthy pregnancies. But some medications used to manage this disorder may have some effect on the baby in a few cases. Women with bipolar should talk to a mental health expert before getting pregnant. Know about the medication that you are taking and talk about its side effects with the doctor. Inform your doctor about conceiving plans beforehand so that medications can be adjusted. If one parent has bipolar disorder there is a 10 percent chance that their child might develop the illness, but one must remember that the overall lifetime prevalence of bipolar spectrum disorders is roughly around 3 percent. Dr. Sonal Anand, Psychiatrist, Wockhardt Hospitals To book an appointment call: +918108101104 Source: https://www.india.com/health/bipolar-mood-disorder-what-is-it-types-symptoms-treatment-and-does-it-cause-pregnancy-complications-5734885/

Menopause is often accompanied by hot flashes, lack of sex drive, and night sweats. To manage this, doctors recommend hormone replacement therapy – a treatment that introduces one to female hormones to replace the lack of estrogen in the body during menopause. There comes a time in a woman’s life when hormones start to decline. Estrogen starts dipping after a woman turns 45 and enters the peri-menopausal stage followed by menopause in the mid-50s. Menopause is often accompanied by hot flashes, lack of sex drive, and night sweats. To manage this, doctors recommend hormone replacement therapy – a treatment that introduces one to female hormones to replace the lack of estrogen in the body during menopause. However, interfering with the normal functioning of hormones could have serious consequences. Read on to know more about what an expert has to say about menopausal hormone therapy and its side effects. Dr. Gandhali Deorukhkar, Gynecologist at Wockhardt Hospitals, spoke about HRT and its possible negative effects. “The importance of women’s health and the quality of life after menopause is increasing. The most effective treatment for vasomotor symptoms (VMS) and genitourinary syndrome of menopause (GSM) is menopausal hormone therapy (MHT), which is also effective in preventing osteoporosis. MHT is an effective therapy that offers more advantages than disadvantages for women aged less than 60 years or who have had menopause for less than 10 years,” she said. “Points to consider prior to initiating MHT include checking the indications and contraindications of MHT, which requires history recording, physical examinations, and other tests. Because the symptoms of menopause are varied, customized tests should be conducted for each risk factor based on the basic examination conducted according to the life cycle and family history of a woman,” the expert added. The basic examination, which is a general examination conducted according to the life cycle, should identify lifestyles such as smoking and drinking habits; mental diseases such as depression; and family history for diseases such as Alzheimer’s disease, osteoporosis, diabetes, endometrial cancer, breast cancer, liver disease, thyroid disease, cardiovascular disease, and venous thromboembolism via history taking. In addition, the basic examination should include a physical examination for height, weight, and blood pressure as well as the pelvis, breast, and thyroid. Blood tests include tests for liver function, kidney function, anemia, and fasting blood sugar as well as lipid examination, followed by mammography, bone mineral density (BMD) test, pelvic ultrasound, and Pap smear screening. In the case of premature ovarian insufficiency (POI), MHT can be used at least until the mean age of menopause regardless of symptoms. Dr. Gandhali DeorukhkarConsultant – GynecologistWockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central To book an appointment call: +918291101001 Source: https://www.timesnownews.com/health/menopausal-hormone-therapy-gynaecologist-answers-faqs-you-need-to-know-article-93731670

Mother mindfulness programs improve stress response in infants, a study by The University of California, San Francisco, USA Name of study: Mother mindfulness programmes improve stress response in infants By who and where: University of California, San Francisco, USA What does it say? ✥ It has been found that mindfulness programmes reduce depression and stress among pregnant women. ✥ Infants, whose mothers attended a mindfulness-based programme, showed a better mental state and a healthier stress response at six months. ✥ These offsprings had a greater ability to bounce back from adversity and had recovered quickly from surgery or illness.  FORMindfulness is hugeMindfulness helps both the expecting mother and her unborn child. The psyche of any individual is a product of their genetic makeup, environmental factors, emotional and behavioural parameters. Each of these plays a part in programming the emotional and behavioural responses of a baby. Hence, any peace-inducing practice that can be undertaken by pregnant women should be prioritised. It will enhance the quality of life of her baby for sure, while also bringing stability to her mind.   AGAINSTGenetics call the shots The mental health of a child is not necessarily dependent on the mental health of the mother carrying it in her womb. There are also those women who are not mentally distressed who give birth to babies who are mentally unstable. An important deciding factor is a stress that the baby receives during labour. Sometimes prolonged labour of the mother can cause cerebral hypoxia in the child, which can also lead to a developmental delay. Proper nutrition is important as malnourished women are at a higher risk of giving birth to a retarded child. Dr Indrani Salunkhe Consultant Gynaecologist, Wockhardt Hospitals, Mumbai Central Source: https://www.indulgexpress.com/msociety/2022/mar/27/how-mothers-mindfulness-impacts-child-39845.html

For some women, a hot water bath spells comfort during their periods! But you should keep in mind some menstrual hygiene factors in mind. Excruciating period pains can make you roll over and over on your bed. Some women find comfort in pain-relieving pills, hot water bags, or even hot water baths! Sounds comforting, doesn’t it? Well, if you’re among the women who feel cleaner and more comfortable after a bath under a shower or in a bathtub – it will help to remember some hygiene tips! It may sound gross to some, but yes, there can be some women who enjoy relaxing in the bathtub during periods. Are you wondering if it’s okay to bathe in the bathtub during periods? Keep wondering, because my dear ladies, it’s really a matter of personal choice! How to Bath During Periods? Apart from keeping you clean, bathing, in general, has many positive effects on your mood and stress levels. But there are certain things you need to be careful about while taking a bath when you are on your period. Dr. Sarita Channawar, Gynecologist Wockhardt Hospitals, Mira Road, Mumbai, explains what you need to remember: 1. Don’t forget to remove your pad, tampon, or cup before bathingIt’s OKAY  to let the vagina bleed in the shower. The blood will run right down the drain. Clean the old blood stuck to your pubic hair. Dispose of the pad, or tampon properly and wash the menstrual cup from time to time to avoid infections. 2. Have a bath twice a dayRegular showers are necessary to prevent odor and lower the risk of infection during menstruation. 3. Clean the bathtub if you’re using oneIf you want to use a tub, clean it before entering it and definitely after using it too! 4. Avoid scented and chemical products down thereUse plain water to clean the vagina. Do not use harsh products that can irritate the vagina and lead to allergies and infections. 5. Rinse from front to back to prevent infectionsThis can help to prevent the spread of bacteria to your vagina. 6. Clean the vagina from outsideThe vagina is a self-cleaning organ. Cleaning from inside can disturb the pH balance, and result in an infection. Rinse the outer part of the vagina with water. If the question on your mind is if you can really use a bathtub during periods, here’s what a doctor has to say: Dr. Manisha Singh, tells “It is an individual’s choice to take a bath in a tub during periods. You may have to deal with a pool of blood around you (if you don’t use a menstrual cup as you do in a swimming pool). If you are okay with it, then you can. However, it’s not ideal to have a bath during your periods in a bathtub.” Besides bathing, there are a few things women need to do to maintain period hygiene, according to Dr. Singh: 1. Change sanitary napkins on time Change their sanitary napkins or tampons every 3 to 4 hours. 2. Don’t forget to remove the tampon People must remember to take out their tampons from the vagina when they’re going to bathe. There have been cases where people have forgotten to remove their tampons, and it has led to infections in the vagina, uterus, and fallopian tubes and can have severe consequences like toxic shock syndrome, and abscess formation inside the pelvis. 3. Try to use a menstrual cup For people who are sexually active and those who are not afraid to touch their private parts, the hygienic way to go about managing periods is to use silicone-based menstrual cups. These can also be used for longer hours than a sanitary napkin. All you need to do is clean it, dry it, and reuse it. The cup can be used for up to two years, and you don’t have the headache of buying sanitary towels or tampons if you have a period. They are completely safe & hygienic. Visit a gynecologist to know the right size that fits you. Also, follow these tips during periods: Stay well hydrated (drink 2 to 3 liters of water daily) and consume a nutritious diet. Take a break from work for a couple of days, if needed. People with heavy periods and severe pain need to visit an expert at the earliest because they might be missing conditions like fibroids and endometriosis. Source: https://www.healthshots.com/intimate-health/feminine-hygiene/menstrual-hygienetips-for-having-a-bath-during-periods/ FAQs on How to Bath During Periods Q. Can I take a bath on my period? It makes no sense to skip taking a bath when you’re menstruating. Unpleasant odors can be avoided by maintaining proper hygiene throughout your period. Additionally, taking a warm bath can help you relax and lessen cramping in your abdomen. To reduce pain and make sure you have a comfortable bath, use lukewarm water. Q. What happens if you take a bath on your period? When you’re menstruating, taking a bath might help reduce cramping and encourage relaxation. It reduces the chance of diseases and infections, and cleanses the body by eliminating menstrual blood. Taking a bath and maintaining good cleanliness are important aspects of menstrual comfort and wellbeing. Q. Can I wash my hair on my period? You can definitely wash your hair when you’re menstruating. It’s critical to continue with your usual hair care and cleanliness regimen. Maintaining good hair hygiene will help stop bacterial or fungal development, which can become more prevalent during menstruation. Q. What should you not do during this period? Skipping meals is one of the main don’ts during menstruation. It’s not a good idea to skip meals when you’re menstruating since it might negatively impact your energy levels and make you feel annoyed and tired. Avoid scrubbing or using strong soaps, as these habits might irritate delicate regions. Avoid standing in hot water for extended periods of time, as this might intensify cramps and other pain.

Diabetes is not good for anyone – be it children, older adults, or even expectant mothers. During pregnancy, blood sugar levels are likely to mess up, leading to a condition known as gestational diabetes. This condition does not necessarily mean that the patient has a history of diabetes and will be sure to have it after birth. However, if you are unable to properly control blood sugar levels, it can later increase your risk of type 2 diabetes. Is There a Natural Remedy for Controlling Blood Sugar After Having a Baby? It turns out that breastfeeding can naturally lower blood sugar levels after giving birth. Breastfeeding is also known for its weight loss benefits, lower risk of cancer, anxiety, rheumatoid arthritis, and heart disease. In addition, experts recommend feeding on both breasts to strengthen the mother-child bond and reduce the risk of inflammation. In an interaction with Times Now Digital, Dr. Gandhali Devorukhkar, Consultant Gynecologist and Obstetrician at Wockhardt Hospitals, on how breastfeeding can lower maternal blood sugar levels by 25%. The expert also shed light on other benefits of breastfeeding after childbirth and whether it is safe to breastfeed a baby while taking insulin and diabetes medication. “About 5-9% of pregnant women in India develop high blood sugar levels even though they did not have diabetes before pregnancy. This condition is known as gestational diabetes, which significantly increases a woman’s risk of developing type 2 diabetes later in life. In type 2 diabetes, the cells do not respond properly to insulin, a hormone that signals the cells to take up the sugar glucose from the blood. If left untreated, blood sugar levels can rise and cause various health problems, including blindness, heart disease, stroke, kidney disease, and amputation. According to one study, breastfeeding increases insulin sensitivity and improves glucose metabolism in the mother. In addition, most diabetes drugs, including insulin and metformin, are safe to use, ”said Dr. Devorukhkar. Breastfeeding Tips for Mothers with Diabetes The American Diabetes Association lists some safe and healthy breastfeeding tips for mothers with diabetes. Source: https://newsbeezer.com/southafrica/can-breastfeeding-improve-blood-sugar-levels-experts-answer-faqs/