Safe Contraception

Author – Motherhood Medical Team

You may be not ready to have a baby right now. While having no intention for starting a family, you may want to prevent your pregnancy while adhering to the safest possible way. Contraception is one of the ways that can prevent your pregnancy along with protecting you from sexually transmissible infections (STI’s).

Quick Fact:

World contraception day is celebrated on 26 September every year to provide right to all the couples and individuals to decide freely.

Safe contraception methods

While there are many options for contraception, but we will consider some of the methods that are safe for you:

Condoms: This is one of the effective contraceptive that not only prevents pregnancy but also provides protections against STIs. It is free from hormones and can be used on demand as well. While it renders a safety option, but it can come off during intercourse if not used properly.
Oral contraceptive pills: Being one of the most common methods used for contraception, oral contraceptive pills are of different types that are effective when used by women once a day. However, you should take these pills when recommended by a medical professional.
Intrauterine device (IUD): This is a small device comprising of progesterone hormone or copper which can be placed inside the uterus of a woman by a trained professional. It can be used for long run where it can be effective in birth control.
The contraceptive injection: Comprising progesterone, this injection can be inserted via woman’s buttock or upper arm where the hormone is released into the blood stream to render its job as a contraceptive.
Diaphragm: It can also act a safe contraceptive when placed correctly inside the uterus to prevent the fertilization. It is usually a small dome shaped silicon which can be used more than once as it can be taken out and cleaned.

The final decision of using a birth control contraceptive rests on the recommendations of your health care provider along with your partner.

At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a team of experienced super specialists backed by the latest in infrastructure and facilities. We have the best Gynaecologist who are experts in handling complex deliveries, gynaecological needs, and other surgeries including a range of laparoscopic surgeries.

Do take an appointment with the best Gynaecology hospital at a centre closest to you. Meet with our doctors who will carry out the required investigations, diagnose the issue and recommend the most appropriate treatment, enabling you to lead an active life.

If you wish to get in touch with our doctors, please book your appointment here.

PMS and hygiene for teenage girls – staying clean during and after

Dr. Archana Dubey- Best Gynaecologist near me

Author: Dr. Archana Dubey, MBBS, MS (OBG)

Consultant – Gynecologist, Infertility and Laparoscopy at Motherhood Hospitals, Indore

When a teenage girl enters puberty, her body goes through several changes both physical and biological. This includes significant changes to the reproductive system which also marks the beginning of her monthly menstrual cycles, to continue till the woman reaches her 50s and menopause. This is also a phase of excitement and confusion for the girl who has stepped into womanhood. She is experiencing a lot of things, has a lot of questions and is too shy to ask someone. While the mother does answer a few, a lot more remain a mystery, waiting for her to discover by herself. Friends and the internet are another source.

What are periods?

A girl child will go through several changes once she reaches puberty, and the most significant milestone in her life is her first period. Periods are an integral part of the menstrual cycle that occur because of changing hormone levels in the ovaries, which influence the uterus.

The following changes happen during a menstrual cycle:

The ovaries produce the hormone oestrogen in cysts or sacs called follicles. This stimulates the follicles to produce eggs. Usually, a single egg matures and this is let out after which the ovaries produce progesterone, another hormone.
This egg travels from the ovary through the fallopian tube towards the uterus.
The hormones oestrogen and progesterone activate the uterus to create a lining to receive and implant a fertilised egg.
In case the egg is not fertilised, there will be a drop in hormone levels which results in the lining of the uterus, consisting of blood and other tissue, being discharged through the vagina – this step is referred to as period.

For most young women, their first periods start between the ages of 11 and 14, but the beginning of a period anywhere between 9-16 years is normal.

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) and hygiene

Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS) is what the girl experiences in her body and her mood before or during her periods. It is usually very intense for 4 days before her period and tapers down 2-3 days after her period begins. Hygiene is a very important aspect that teenage girls need to learn and practice as they enter womanhood. Here are a few important things they need to know.

Choosing between pads, tampons and menstrual cups

Children must discuss this with their mothers or doctors, or at school with counselors. They must learn of the advantages and disadvantages of the various options available for them to use during their periods such as sanitary pads, tampons or menstrual cups. It is important to know what pads, tampons, period-proof underpants, and sanitary cups look like and how to use and dispose them, and also how to use and clean a menstrual cup. It is better for the child to start with period-proof underpants or pads before she goes on to try menstrual cups or tampons. A good thing would be for the child to practice using a tampon or a menstrual cup between periods, by inserting and removing them.

Pads, tampons, period-proof underpants or menstrual cups – how many would be needed

A child will need about 3-6 sanitary pads or tampons a day, although fewer may be necessary when the flow is lighter. Pads or pads with wings could also be used.

1 to 2 period-proof underpants could be needed each day although this depends on how heavy the bleeding is. These underpants must be washed and dried between each use so one may need about 2 to 3 pairs.

Home-made cloth pads carry the risk of infections including severe white discharge, smelly discharge, burning, etc. If these are being used, they have to be washed thoroughly and dried before they are ready for use again.

If using a tampon, one cannot be used for more than 4 hours. It has to be replaced and the used one disposed, by wrapping it in a piece of paper.

Scented products must be avoided for genital hygiene

The PMS impact and managing it During PMS, the girl might go through sadness, mood swings, crankiness, fatigue, anxiety, irritation, food cravings, bloating, backache, pimples, diarrhoea, sore breasts or other kinds of discomfort. For food cravings a balanced diet consisting of fresh fruit and vegetables is recommended. To reduce bloating, practice a low salt diet.

To reduce anxiety, it is good to avoid caffeine and get plenty of exercise
For sore breasts, backache, and headache a warm heating pad could be used or a pain killer (only if necessary).
Yoga helps in keeping the mind calm and the body flexible

During the period, particularly in the first few hours, many girls experience severe cramps, caused by prostaglandin, a chemical that contracts the muscle in the uterus. A warm pad or a pain killer can alleviate the situation (it is better to manage naturally unless it is imperative or pain killers could become a habit). Post their first period, most girls settle into a regular cycle and are able to manage their symptoms at home. It is advisable to have a healthy diet, sleep cycle, and an exercise routine. It is advised to rest well during periods and keep active so the monthly cycle can be managed well over time. However in case you are not able to manage the symptoms or are experiencing any other discomfort, it is best to contact your family doctor or a gynaecologist for advice. At Motherhood Hospitals, we have a team of excellent doctors and super specialists specialising in women and children care. Do take an appointment with our doctor at any centre close to you and discuss your PMS related issues with her. You are assured of sound advice to help you/ your child manage the condition effectively and lead an active life. At Motherhood Hospitals, we deliver exceptional healthcare services to women and children with highest standard of care and competence. book your appointment with Dr. Archana Dubey, for all the Gynaecological issues.

Introduction of Solid Foods to Toddlers By Dr. Peeyoosh

Dr Peeyoosh Rankhamb, Consultant, Pediatrics, Neonatology, Motherhood Hospital, Kharghar

Rice, mashed potato, or small pieces of fruits? Are
you worried about your baby’s menu while introducing him or her to solid foods?
Have you set a date for making him eat solid foods? Are you confused about when
to make your baby eat those solid foods? Many moms get plenty of
advice from family members, friends, or even relatives regarding what a baby
should eat and avoid but this can only make the matters worse as everyone has a
different opinion. So, it will be a tough choice for you to decide what to give
your baby. But, we solve your problem as we give you a complete list of solid
foods that you must include in your baby’s diet plan. Read on to know more
about this and get going!

Are you aware? Your baby
is ready to eat those solid foods when they are about 4 months to 6-months-old.
It is no brainer that your baby’s digestive system wouldn’t be fully developed
to digest solid foods. Thus, it is essential to introduce solid foods at the
right time. Not too early or not too late. Every child is different. It is
essential to know whether the child is ready to have solid foods. So, looking
for few signs will allow you to determine whether your child is ready. When you
notice that your baby has gained good neck control, shows an interest when you
are having food by looking into your plate, attempts to reach out to your food,
or even tries to open mouth when you try to offer him/her food. It is a known
fact that most babies will show signs of eating solid foods around 6 months. Introduce solid foods when you and your baby
are relaxed.

The signs that your baby
is hungry are the baby will be excited to see that the food is ready and
leaning towards you when you have the plate of food. The signs your baby is not
interested in include pushing the spoon away, shutting the mouth while you try
to feed her/him, and turning the head away. Try to feed your baby just a
spoonful of the amount and later move onto those larger portions. Instead of
placing food in the front, you must try to place it on the tongue. Allow
him/her to suck the food. Make sure that the foods are properly mashed, cooked,
pureed, or strained with appropriate texture. Avoid feeding foods like peanuts,
cashew nuts, almonds, or those foods where there is a risk of choking.

Here are some foods that
are ideal for your baby

Vegetables: You can begin withsweet potato, carrot, or even peas. Even if your baby rejects them then just try to feed them the next day. Do not easily give up on feeding your baby.
Cereal: Opt for iron-fortified cereals.You can choose barely and oatmeal.
Fruits: Try to make your baby eat mashed bananas or apples, pears, and even peaches. Even pureed avocado is a good option as it is creamy and jam-packed with healthy fats.
Finger foods: These are small in size and can help your baby grip them properly. Hence, crackers, dry cereals, small pieces of scrambled eggs, and bread can be given to your babies.
Iron-rich foods: These are essential to keep anaemia at bay.Raisins, peanut butter, and spinach can do the trick here.

Follow these tricks while preparing food for your baby

Try to mash or puree the foods until they become smooth. Do not give your child big pieces of food. Foods should be cooked unless they become soft.
In order to make the cereals smooth, try to mix them with formula milk.
It is essential to cut strawberries, grapes, and tomatoes into small pieces.
Remove the skin and bones of the fish before you cook it.

Know what to avoid: Raw fruits and vegetables,popcorn,
raw eggs, large chunks of poultry,and even those raisins which are
uncooked.

Caution: In case, you observe that
your baby has a food allergy then avoid him/her giving those foods. Consult
your doctor regarding the symptoms you observed in the baby after he/she
injected certain foods.

Blog on Mental Health During Covid Crisis

Do’s and don’ t during the current covid crisis

How to maintain good mental heath during the current crisis.

1. stay positive

2. remember 97% recover ( there are many who have put up their stories on the net)

3. listen and follow the instructions given from authentic sources. ( doctors, govt, health care workers)

4. if you have self quarentined follow a routine at home, do not spend time lying down on the bed watching tv. Try to be as active as possible at home.

5. stay in contact with the world digitally

6. look at what you can achieve by being at home. Enjoy it

7. Remember you are not the only one going through the crisis, the whole world is.

you are not alone

8. if you are feeling overwhelmed seek help from mental health care professionals. many are available online.

9. keep in touch with extended family members digitally

10. Humour is a good way to handle crisis.

watch movies which can make you laugh and read books if you are an avid reader.

11. Do not watch information which causes you anxiety. Avoid 24×7 watching and discussing about covid ( twice a day information from reliable sources should be enough)

12. Check the well being of near and dear ones digitally

13. Do not drink alcohol or smoke tobacco as a coping stratergy , it only worsens the situations

14. Do not sigmatise people whom have contacted the virus be supportive .

15. Bravado does not help , follow instructions given from authentic sources.

16. Do not focus on the number of cases focus on what you should do to keep safe.

Dr Vijayakumar D R

MBBS, DPM, DNB
(NIMHANS), CCST(UK),
CCMDT

Consultant Psychiatrist

Motherhood Hospital Hebbal

Menstruation Matters

Menstruation is a unique phenomenon in a woman’s life. It is the mark where a girl enters the womanhood and is blessed with the gift of giving life. However, this gift is always encircled by taboos that isolate women from the social and cultural life.

Till date, menstruation is described with code words such as red alert, shark week, on the rag, and so on which proves that talking about it is a taboo in the society. Therefore, such taboos make the period cycle a topic of stigma and shame to be discussed out in the open which leads to a ton of misinformation related to it. To cater to the needs of this series of misinformation, given below are answers to a few unanswered questions related to menstruation, give it a read.

Can the change of diet ease my period pain?

Well, yes. Your diet can be your friend or foe when you’re on your period. Consumption of certain foods during your periods can worsen the symptoms than usual. Try to avoid salty and spicy food or any food that can cause bloating, pain and discomfort. Hence, stick to clean and healthy food for a happy period.

Is there a way to tackle irregular periods?

A typical cycle length is of 28 days, and any changes in it mean that your cycle is unpredictable or irregular. There are many reasons for it. To have a more unobstructed view of this, we suggest you consult with your healthcare specialist.

Other than that you can maintain healthy body weight, exercise regularly, eat a balanced diet and regulate your thyroid levels to avoid such instances.

How often should I change my pad?

Be it your heavier days or lighter flow days you should change your pad every 3 or 4 hours. It is to avoid any odor from the bacteria growing in the blood.

What is the idea behind using a menstruation cup?

A menstruation cup is a flexible cup made of silicone or rubber (used inside the vagina) used to collect menstrual blood. It collects the menstrual flow rather than just absorbing it as tampons or pads do. It is gaining popularity because it is easy to use, reduces the foul odor and maintains the vaginal pH.

How do I deal with my first period?

Menarche or your very first period may not be the happiest time of your life cause of the cramps and bloating, but don’t forget that it is a stepping stone to your fertility which officially makes you a woman!

Here are a few things that you can do to make yourself more comfortable:

1. Cut back on coffee
2. Cut down on deep-fried foods
3. Consume more antioxidant-rich foods
4. Consume food rich in Iron

Even though we have come so far in the today, few things still need progress and advancement. That is why menstruation needs attention and an open conversation in the society.

ANAEMIA & CERVICAL CANCER – THE UNNOTICED KILLERS AFFECTING INDIAN WOMEN

India has been making great headway in the eradication of diseases like Polio & Small Pox but this is just the tip of the iceberg. Certain conditions like Anaemia do not get the attention they deserve. Characterized by subtle symptoms, diseases of this nature can go untreated for a long period leading to serious complications or occasionally even death. Women may be totally unaware that they are suffering from such conditions.

Anaemia in varying degrees is widely prevalent amongst Indian women. Global Nutrition Report 2017 states that about 51% of women of reproductive age in India suffer from anaemia. It is predominantly due to nutritional deficiency. Women also have to cope with blood loss during their monthly periods which can further reduce their haemoglobin levels. It is prevalent across all socioeconomic strata and is a condition that can be easily diagnosed and treated.

Anaemia characterized by low blood hemoglobin levels increases the risk of infection, preterm delivery, and suboptimal fetal growth. In infancy and early childhood, Anaemia can cause recurrent illness, failure to thrive, poor performance at school and failure to participate in physical training and games at school. Analysis by a think tank, IndiaSpend, states that anaemia has remained the leading cause of disability across the ages in India for the past 10 years. Anaemia can be easily diagnosed by a simple blood test called Complete Blood Count.

Cervical cancer is a leading cause of death from cancer amongst Indian women. It runs parallel to breast cancer in incidence. A study on cervical cancer by ASSOCHAM-National Institute of Cancer Prevention and Research (NICPR) reveals India alone accounts for one-fourth of the total cervical cancer burden globally. Almost 17% of cancer-related fatalities in women between the age of 30-69 can be attributed to cervical cancer. Majority of cervical cancers in India even today are diagnosed at a late stage. There is, however, an opportunity to detect precancerous changes of the cervix at least 15 to 20 years ahead by a simple test known as the Pap Smear. This test, although widely available to the affluent classes, is not easily accessible to the lower social strata. Cervical Cancer, however, unfortunately, is more prevalent in this lesser privileged section of our society.

Simple tests such as Pap Smears & Complete Blood Count (CBC) can go a long way in not only saving the lives of many Indian women but also improving their quality of life. Due to the rapid changes in lifestyles as well as lack of awareness of such diseases, our mothers, sisters and daughters fall victim to these ‘unnoticed killers’. What is even more alarming is that due to the high cost associated with such tests many women from the underprivileged sections of our society may not have access to such lifesaving screening tests.

In an effort to create awareness amongst our women and in order to provide women from the underprivileged section of our society an opportunity to avail these tests Motherhood Women and Children hospital conducted a free medical camp for women in partnership with the Thuluva Vellala Association. Basic history, examination, blood counts, blood sugars, ECG and BP and Pap-smears test were performed and referrals to specialists were made if required. The camp was attended by more than 150 men and women. A significant number of women were benefited by the special services offered at this camp.

Fruits and veggies on your table Makes your health Stable

Fruits and veggies on your table Makes your health Stable

Nutritional tips for Toddlers:

Introduce only one food at a time, giving only small amounts at first
Increase variety slowly
Introduce all food groups.
Give an extra dash of fat in one or two items.
Do not use excessive fat, salt and sugar.
Prepare bland and non-flavoured items. Fried food, highly spiced, and highly flavoured foods are not liked.
Consistency should be gradually built from liquid to semi-solid and then solid.
Particle size of gruels should be built gradually from homogenized khichidi, to well mash to a thick khichidi.
Quality should be gradually increased.
If the child dislikes or disinterested, discontinue the food for some time and re-introduce later. Do not force feed. No food is indispensable or best.
Parents should avoid personal prejudices, likes and dislikes in front of children. Rather they should eat a variety of foods and encourage children to do same.
Identify intolerance and immediately discontinue. Cow??s milk, egg white, soybean etc. are known to cause allergies. Cereals which least allergy is rice and the pulse which causes best tolerance is moong dal.
Avoid fibre, whole legumes and raw vegetables with their high fibre content foods recommended for adults but not for infants.
Some complementary foods need special preparation such as ARF (amylase rich foods) or mashed potato or banana.
Prevent inclusion of junk foods, which provide only energy. Too many sweets biscuits, baked products like cakes and pastries, which have refined flour and sugar can cause dental caries.
Avoid nibbling. Have a 5-6 meal pattern. Keep gap of 3 hrs.??, and encourage the physical activity and play to prevent obesity.
Meals should be attractive and served with care and personal attention.
Too much attention at meal time only makes child to achieve their ends. Healthy meal time environment of the family helps in good eating habits.

By Saraswathi Usha, Sr. Nutritionist Motherhood Indiranagar

Dengue and Malaria Beware of the Fever During Pregnancy

Monsoon is the season where everyone starts enjoying their life. This season gets the child out in you. Many wants to play in the rain water, get drenched in the rain and the list goes on. Yes, enjoying is one part of monsoon. But getting ready to fall sick is another aspect which everyone needs to be careful during this season. Dengue, Malaria, Chikungunya, Swine flu are common in the monsoon season. In the last 2 -3 years, there is a sudden spurt in the dengue cases everywhere. Most of the time hospitals will be completely filled with dengue patients and they turn away the patients because of the unavailability of the beds. But fever like dengue, malaria and swine flu could be dangerous during pregnancy if the care is not taken properly. Dengue infection in pregnancy carries the risk of haemorrhage for both the mother and the new-born. Also there is a serious risk of premature birth and fetal death. In the case of infection developing close to the delivery time, there is a risk of vertical transmission. Similarly malaria and swine flu during pregnancy can lead to miscarriage, congenital infections etc. Malaria can also cause anaemia in pregnant women and may result in convulsion, kidney failure. So it is important to monitor for dengue, malariaand swine flu during pregnancy. Measures to be taken to avoid dengue, malaria and swine flu

Don??t travel to areas where dengue, malaria are prevalent
Keep your surroundings clean. Close the window in the morning and evening to avoid mosquitos entering the house
Wear protective cloths like long pants, long sleeve dresses
Use bed nets, preferably treated with an insecticide to prevent mosquito bite.

Simple treatments which a pregnant women can follow during dengue, malaria and

Drink plenty of fluids like water, fresh juice, coconut water. This will help to prevent dehydration.
Avoid taking medicines like aspirin for fever. This may lead to bleeding and other complication
Antipyretics helps to manage fever and body pain.
Meet the physician as early as possible.

Dr. Asha Hiremath

Obstetrics & Gynaecology

World Hepatitis Day

28th July is recognized as World Hepatitis Day; and today we would help you understand the common causes and Effect of Hepatitis in Pregnancy.

Hepatitis is an infection and inflammation of the liver caused by a virus. Jaundice during pregnancy is mainly caused by Hepatitis.

Normally, being pregnant will not hasten the disease process or make it worse, unless a woman has hepatitis E.

Most of the times pregnant women are completely unaware that they have been infected with a hepatitis virus. Usually this is because any symptoms of the illness may only be felt or at times there are no symptoms at all. Good antenatal care and blood screening are important during pregnancy, to avoid and cure it at an early stage.

The common types of Hepatitis are:

Hepatitis A :

Hepatitis A is transmitted by the oral-fecal route, such as from contaminated water or diapers. The main treatment is rest and a nutritious diet, and usually the woman will recover within a month or two. If a newborn is exposed, the infection is usually mild and they will have a lifelong immunity to the disease. If a pregnant woman gets exposed, she will be given immune gamma globulin (IG) to help protect her from getting the disease. It is always recommended to the pregnant ladies who plans a travel to get immunized.

Hepatitis B:

Hepatitis B is one of the most highly transmitted forms of hepatitis from mother to child around the world. Usually, the disease is passed on during delivery with exposure to the blood and fluids during the birthing process.

When the infant is born, the newborn will receive hepatitis B immune globulin at birth, and should be vaccinated with a hepatitis B vaccine at one week, one month, and six months after birth.

Hepatitis C:

Hepatitis C occurs if a person is exposed through transfusions, contaminated needles, or injected drug use. Mostly women become pregnant during the years between 20 and 40, which is also the age group in which the incidence of hepatitis C, hence screening for hepatitis C before and during pregnancy is done. The risk of a pregnant woman passing the hepatitis C virus to her unborn child is generally low and has been related to the levels of quantitative RNA levels in the mother??s blood.

Hepatitis E:

Hepatitis E is a rare and sporadic viral infection of the liver. Its risk of transmission is highest in regions where there are low standards of sanitation. It is transmitted via the fecal-oral route through contaminated water. When this illness affects pregnant women, they may experience a more severe form of illness, which may possibly lead to acute liver failure.

1. What are the signs of hepatitis during pregnancy?

Common signs of Hepatitis are:

Nausea and vomiting
Loss of appetite
Fever
Abdominal pain
Yellowing of the skin and the whites of the eyes.

The problem is, depending on the type of virus, symptoms might not show up for months after infection, or you may have no symptoms at all.

2. How can we analyses that a person is infected with hepatitis during pregnancy?

Blood Test can indicate the presence of hepatitis. There are blood tests which can also show the liver condition.

3. How will hepatitis affect the unborn baby?

The baby would be fine throughout the pregnancy. Some risk factors involve only during the time of birth. That??s why all pregnant women are tested for hepatitis B. If the test shows the mother has been infected, doctor will take steps to minimize the baby??s chances of infection.

Dr. Sireesha Reddy

Obstetrics & Gynaecology

Motherhood begins its Chennai chapter

For the past 2 years Motherhood has been giving mothers in Bangalore a reason to smile. With its superlative technology and expertise in women and childcare, Motherhood is the best choice for women who desire the best for themselves and their precious bundles of joy. Now mothers in Chennai too can entrust the most important phase of their life into the hands of our expert clinical and support team.

Motherhood brings to Chennai its very first birthing boutique that promotes a family centred atmosphere. Personalised maternity counselling is offered to make every family member a part of the woman??s journey into the beautiful experience of giving birth. Our Lamaze and Antenatal programs also help the parents-to-be get accustomed to the process of giving birth naturally. Our innovative labour practices have helped many women achieve a comfortable pregnancy and childbirth experience. Deluxe rooms and suites that contain highly sophisticated birthing beds ensure that the mother-to-be is most comfortable during the birthing process.

Motherhood understands the role of women as building blocks in the development of the society. Women generally tend to neglect their own health while devoting their lives for the betterment of others. We offer a range of healthcare services dedicated to women of all age groups. We intend to provide every woman a nurturing and safe environment during her road to recovery. We achieve this by offering them a blissful and homely atmosphere which takes away all the apprehensions that a woman may have regarding medical procedures.

Motherhood is conveniently located in TTK Road, Alwarpet, Chennai. We invite all women in Chennai to take advantage of its personalized, patient centred-care.

DisclaimerThe information contained in this issue is not a substitute for medical advice. All content including text, graphics and images are for general information purposes only. The content is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis or treatment.