Importance of Folic Acid during the First Trimester

Every woman naturally pays special attention to her diet and lifestyle as soon as she discovers she is pregnant.While its important to eat healthy during pregnancy, it is particularly important to eat foods that provide all the necessary nutrients necessary to ensure normal development of the baby and the mother’s good health.

Folic acid is one such essential nutrient that is required right from the pre-conception period until the first trimester. Let us take a look at what folic acid is and the role it plays in ensuring a healthy pregnancy and baby.

Folic acid and its benefits

Folic acid is also known as folacin or folate. It is a B vitamin that naturally occurs in certain foods. It works along with vitamin B12 in generating healthy red blood cells in our body. Folic acid is essential for the healthy development of the unborn baby’s brain, spine and skull.

It is known to reduce the chances of the unborn baby developing neural tube defects likespina bifida. Spina bifida is a birth defect wherein the spine of the baby remains under-developed, causing some severe physical disabilities including paralysis.Folic acid can also help prevent many other birth defects like cleft palate (cleft lip) and heart defects by as much as 70%.

When you need it most?

It is during the first trimester (first 12 weeks) of pregnancy that your baby’s brain and nervous system are developing. It happens at a very fast pace and so makes it very vital that you have folic acid rich foods along with folic acid supplements during this time.

Majority of women have an unplanned pregnancy and do not realise they are pregnant until 4-6 weeks into their pregnancy. By this time most of the vital organs in the foetus have already begun to form. That is why, doctors recommend women of reproductive age and those trying for a baby to have a folic acid rich diet.

Foods rich in folic acid are:

  • Oranges/ orange juice
  • Hard boiled eggs
  • Lean red meats
  • Brown rice
  • Black-eyed beans
  • Broccoli
  • Green leafy vegetables
  • Folic enriched foods like whole grain bread and cereals

(Talk to your obstetrician or pregnancy dietician for further advice)

Points to remember

  1. Do not boil vegetables as this dissolves the folic content in them. Steam or microwave instead.
  2. Overcooking vegetables can also destroy folate content.
  3. Ensure that you eat your multivitamins just before/after your meals to improve absorption.
  4. If you are going through any other medical treatment like that of epilepsy, diabetes, blood pressure, etc., consult your doctor to know how it can affect your pregnancy.
  5. Folic acid deficiency can cause anaemia.
  6. Folic acid rich foods alone cannot fulfil the daily requirement of folic acid during pregnancy and so, supplements recommended by your obstetrician should be taken on a daily basis.

After you have crossed your first trimester, you can discontinue eating folic acid supplements. However, there is no harm in continuing with the prescription even in the following trimesters.

Tips to Tackle Pregnancy Stress

Pregnancy is an experience that defines the essence of womanhood. If you are pregnant you could be experiencing a mixed bag of emotions. You feel extremely excited about the day you will hold your little bundle of joy in your arms and on the other hand you have a myriad of anxieties.

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Listed below are some common worries you might go through and ways to effectively handle these anxieties.

1.Nausea, weight gain, stretch-marks! How do I cope with bodily changes?

Well, it’s true that the onset of pregnancy can be pretty difficult for many mothers to be. Tiredness, nausea, constipation, heartburn, an itchy belly, the list goes on. The good news is that for most women, the nausea subsides by the end of the first trimester. A well balanced diet with adequate amounts of fluids can help tackle digestive problems. For stretch marks and itching, a mild lotion applied in the early stages is a good remedy. If you are suffering from extreme pregnancy symptoms your healthcare-provider can prescribe some medication that is safe during pregnancy.

2.Which hospital should I go to?

Yes, you do need to decide where you want to go for all your pre-natal scans and check-ups. This is very essential because it ensures that you and the baby remain healthy. Early ultrasounds help confirm your due date (if you do not remember the date of your last menstruation cycle). Ultrasounds are also instrumental in detecting genetic abnormalities like the Down syndrome.

Choosing a hospital or birth centre will also help you in getting a fair knowledge about charges and birth packages. You will also be more comfortable with your doctor and hospital on the whole.

3.Is my baby ok? Is it getting enough nutrition?

Mums-to-be also worry about their unborn tiny tots throughout pregnancy. While this is a perfectly natural tendency, you want to make sure you don’t go overboard with your concerns and worries. Follow your doctor’s advice regarding medications, food and exercise. Keep up with all your ante natal medical check-ups and don’t exert your body.

4.Will I be able to handle labour pain or should I go for a C-section?

This is one thought that women contemplate even before they conceive. Most pregnant women opt for natural vaginal deliveries and yes, it is true that they can be painful. But then again, there are some things you can do to prepare your body and mind to deal with labour pain effectively. Sign up for a prenatal class where your learn nutrition, meditation and exercise strategies like Lamaze. You can also talk to your obstetrician about delivery and pain control options.

Natural vaginal delivery is the preferred childbirth option compared to Caesarean section due to its faster recovery time.

5.Will I be a good Mom?

Of course you will! There is no reason to think otherwise. Take things one day at a time. The main thing to do here is to accept any help that comes your way. Don’t hesitate to get help and support from family and friends. Pregnancy and motherhood can involve a lot of physical and mental stress. Include your spouse in every aspect of your pregnancy and baby care. Don’t try to do everything on your own. Rest whenever you feel tired. Let your maternal instincts take over and enjoy every moment of your pregnancy.

Tips to sleep better during pregnancy

Enhance your pregnancy journey with expert tips on better sleep - Motherhood Hospital India.

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No matter how much you long to slip into your nightwear and catch up on some sleep, one of the greatest challenges many women face during pregnancy is getting comfortable, uninterrupted sleep.

A woman’s quality of sleep deteriorates during the first trimester due to a full bladder. You are more likely to go through emotional and physical stress-related to pregnancy during this stage. You might feel very sleepy during the day-time. The second and third trimester bring additional sleep problems as the growing baby adds pressure on the bladder. You might also suffer from heartburn, leg cramps and sinus congestion. The movement of your little one can also wake you up from sound sleep.

How to sleep better

  • Reduce the amount of water you drink during the evening. This will help reduce the frequency of the trips to the bathrooms at night.
  • Cut down on caffeinated beverages and foods such as chocolates, soda, tea and coffee.
  • Use pillows to give your tummy and back extra support. It can also help to place a pillow between your legs and sleep on your side. Some maternity stores sell pillows that are specially designed to enhance sleep in pregnant women.
  • You can promote good sleep by drinking a glass of warm milk or eating foods high in carbohydrates.
  • Avoid eating spicy foods and very heavy meals just before bedtime. Spicy foods may cause digestive problems like heartburn. If you are suffering from heartburn, eat smaller portions at regular intervals and eat the last meal 3-4 hours before bedtime.
  • Take a short nap during the day to avoid feeling very tired during the night. Avoid napping too late in the afternoon as this may interfere with your night-time sleeping routines.
  • If you are having a lot of trouble sleeping, try to practice relaxation techniques that help induce sleep. These include meditation, deep breathing, guided imagery or reflexology massages that are safe during pregnancy. If you do not have enough knowledge of these methods enrol for a class that gives specialized classes like Lamaze for pregnant women.
  • Sleeping on the left side helps promote blood and nutrient supply to your uterus and baby. It also helps your body eliminate waste and fluids. Make this sleeping posture a habit during early pregnancy as it will help sleep better during the later stages of pregnancy when your belly is bigger.
  • If your sleep is interrupted due to shortness of breath, try propping up your body with the help of a pillow.
  • Make your bedroom more sleep friendly. Keep noise and light out of the room. Use bedroom decor that you find most comfortable.
  • Follow a proper bedtime routine. Try to sleep during the same time every day to make sure you get enough rest. You can try taking a warm bath, listen to soothing music, or read a light-hearted book a few minutes before your bedtime.

These methods are sure to help you sleep better during pregnancy. If you still find yourself waking up at night once in a while, don’t fret! It’s perfectly natural to have a few nights of interrupted sleep.

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Importance of Oral Hygiene during Pregnancy

Pregnancy is an important phase in the life of a woman and brings with it numerous physical changes. While most of these changes are needed to assist foetal development and to prepare the body for labour, increased hormonal levels during pregnancy can also intensify dental problems. Therefore, maintaining dental hygiene becomes increasingly essential during pregnancy.

Common dental problems during pregnancy

Pregnant women commonly experience swollen or bleeding gums when they brush their teeth. If you have an existing gum disease it might get elevated during pregnancy. Gingivitis is an alarmingly common occurrence in pregnant women. If proper care is taken to curb gingivitis during pregnancy, it is likely to reduce or end after childbirth. Periodontal gum disease is another gum disease that can have adverse effects on a pregnancy.

The periodontal gum disease causes infections in the gums and the bones. If left untreated, it can cause loss of tooth or teeth. You could even develop pus filled sacs known as abscesses that are quite painful. According to medical research, the bacterium contains a chemical known as prostaglandin which enters the bloodstream and affects the foetus, potentially increasing the risk of pre-term labour. Another study suggests that there is also an increased risk of preeclampsia in women who suffer from periodontal disease.

Tips to maintain oral health

It is very important to maintain good oral health when you are planning a pregnancy or as soon as you find out you are pregnant.

Many recent studies indicate a strong link between oral health and pregnancy complications like low birth weight and preterm delivery. If you are pregnant, you should consider visiting your dentist to treat any gum related problems. Make sure you inform the dentist that you are pregnant so that you receive treatments and medications that are safe for pregnant women.

  • Avoid consumption of anything that you feel can worsen your gum condition
  • Use fluoride toothpaste to brush your teeth in order to remove the existing plaque. Brush twice daily.
  • Floss your teeth at least thrice a week. This will help remove trapped food and plaque between the teeth.
  • Use a dentist recommended mouth-wash with anti-microbial properties to prevent gingivitis.
  • Adopt a healthy diet.
  • Treat any existing tooth decay and other problems before it worsens.
  • Do not share food or utensils with others while pregnant to avoid the transmission of bacteria that causes tooth decay.
  • Get regular dental check-ups during pregnancy.

Once you are confident that you are following a good and healthy dental routine, you can sit back and enjoy the most precious moments of your life.

For further details or queries e-mail us at: tomotherhoodindia@gmail.com

Disclaimer:The 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.

ADVANCED WOMEN AND CHILD HEALTHCARE CENTRE

Making motherhood a blissful experience,Motherhood Indiranagar

Women require unique and specialised health care in every stage of life; some for themselves and some for their children. With a view to providing women in Bangalore a healthcare facility close to home,Motherhood, Bangalore inaugurated the new wing of their Indiranagar facility on 14th November 2013.

The facility known as the Advanced Women & Child Healthcare Centre is equipped with ultra-modern medical facilities to provide comprehensive care in Gynaecology, Neonatology and Paediatrics. The centre was inaugurated by Mr. U.T. Khader, Honourable Minister of Health and Family Welfare, Govt. of Karnataka.

While most pregnancies progress without any problems, some require specialized care. Motherhood has partnered with leading experts in fetal medicine, The Bangalore Fetal Medicine Center (BFMC) to give this expert care to the unborn baby primary care while it is still in the womb, making it possible to diagnose and manage genetic and other abnormalities in the fetus. Fetal medicine specialists, sonologists and emotional counsellors provide the most advanced treatment and care.

Motherhood has also partnered with Kosmoderma Skin Clinics &Medispa’s, a leading skin, hair and laser clinic in South India. Motherhood  Mommy  Makeover for new mothers provides customised cosmetology services to women before, during and after pregnancy.The Mommy Makeover program includes, Anti-stretch Mark Treatment for body, Post Delivery Tummy Toning, etc.

We recognise that the health of women and children is very essential in building a self-reliant, healthy, stable and confident community. Our healthcare centre functions with the assistance of world-class expertise and technology, coupled with compassion and a home-like setting.

PREGNANCY & FOOD CRAVINGS

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Food cravings start during the early stages of pregnancy, when your body is still in the process of getting used to the new changes and is filled with pregnancy hormones. The urges are sudden and mostly radical and random, or so it seems, ranging from ice to potato chips and pickles to chocolate. But what do these cravings mean? Is it an additional part of healthy nutrition during pregnancy or is it just your body adapting to the changes?

What causes food cravings?

Well, although there is no definite proof about this but it is said that our body knows what it needs or lacks and during pregnancy, it is this inbuilt system that kicks in. Many theories surround this study, however some absurd cravings like cigarette butts or chalk still remain unexplained, or even the fact that some women develop a sudden distaste or repulsion for a certain food, which they may have loved otherwise, like the smell of eggs frying or the smell of rich spices.

To help you understand your cravings, we have listed a few of the top cravings and their probable significance or relevance.

Nutrition benefits from your cravings

Pickles–If you are low on sodium, pickles are likely to be your craving. But the likeness for pickles does not end with sodium; it could very well just be the flavor that you prefer. The same reason you crave for something crunchy and salty and think about potato chips.

Ice Craving for ice could mean an iron deficiency. Although ice does not have a significant amount of iron, women who craved ice during pregnancy seem to have iron deficiency.

Chocolate Women found low on magnesium have often had craving for chocolate. Some other alternative can be whole grains, nuts, beans and green vegetables.

Red meat Red meat is an easy source of protein. A lack in protein may cause a craving for red meat.

Fruits –Some researchers believe that fruits like watermelons and grapes act as cooling agents for pregnant women. It is also a source of Vitamin C for the mother and her child.

Spicy Food Cravings for spicy food can be related to the body trying to cool off by sweating. Pregnancy causes the body to heat up; eating spicy might just help you keep your body cool.

Lemons It’s not unnatural to see pregnant women crave for something sour. Lemons contain many beneficial vitamins but apart from that, the sourness helps reactivate the taste buds occasionally.

Now that you have a brief guide on your cravings, eat up, stay healthy but control your urges on bizarre cravings, we still don’t know what they mean and it is as confusing to us as it is to you!

Disclaimer:The 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.

Twice the Joy, Twice the Care

Why You Need It?

Sometimes a twin pregnancy just happens. In other cases, specific factors are at play. For example, a twin pregnancy is more likely as you get older because hormonal changes can cause more than one egg to be released at a time. Use of assisted reproductive technologies such as in vitro fertilisation also boosts the odds of twins or other multiples.

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What to expect when expecting twins:

  • More frequent check-ups to track your baby’s growth and development, monitor your health, and watch for signs of pre-term labour. You might need frequent ultrasounds or other tests, especially as your pregnancy progresses.
  • More emphasis on certain nutrients  like folic acid, calcium, iron, protein and other essential nutrients. If you are already eating a healthy diet, keep it up  and be sure to take a daily prenatal vitamin. Your health care provider might recommend an iron supplement as well.
  • More weight gain. Gaining the right amount of weight can support your baby’s health. It also makes it easier to shed the extra pounds after delivery. For twins, the recommendation is often about 17 to 25 kilograms (37 to 54 pounds) for women who have a healthy weight before pregnancy which might require about 600 extra calories a day, depending on your activity level. Work with your health care provider to determine what’s right for you.
  • More precautions. Check with your doctor at Motherhood who might ask you to curtail activities such as work, travel and physical activity as your pregnancy progresses. Although bed rest isn’t proven to be an effective way to prevent pre-term labour, it’s sometimes suggested as a precaution to encourage foetal growth and reduce the risk of complications.

Healthy multiples have the same needs as other newborns. Yet with twins, you will have a double dose. You might need more rest and support than you imagined, especially if your babies are born prematurely or need special medical care after birth. Take time to enjoy your babies and ask friends, loved ones and others for help when you need it.

For further details or queries , kindly contact us at tomotherhoodindia@gmail.com

Bonding With Your Unborn Baby

You might not be able to see your baby while you’re pregnant, but you might be delighted to know that your baby can feel your movements and hear your voice from as early as 20 weeks. New born babies are known to differentiate the voice of their mothers from other voices.

Although there is no conclusive evidence that this is true, some experts believe that as music has a positive effect on older children, music might also benefit the development of foetuses. So, this can be a good time to start interacting and creating a bond with your unborn baby.

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The magic of touch

You may, occasionally, have a natural tendency to rub your pregnant belly. This is a great way to let your baby feel your touch. Once you begin to notice your baby’s movements in the latter half of your pregnancy, you will notice the baby responding to your touch.

Talk to the baby

Talking to the unborn baby might feel silly and uncomfortable at first but it’s a perfectly normal gesture. Talk to the baby frequently while doing chores around the house, early in the morning or before bedtime. Dads-to-be can also use this method of pre-natal bonding to develop a special bond with the baby. Once the baby is born, he/she will feel a strong connection with the parents as a result of all the talking you both did.

Play music

You can sing or read stories and poems to your unborn tiny tot. Babies grow fond of their mother’s voice right from the time they are in the womb. It’s not necessary to place the headphones on your tummy.Music played at a moderate volume can be heard by the foetus as the amniotic fluid is a good conductor of sound.

At times you may notice foetal movements in response to the music you play. Babies are known to recognise and feel comfortable while hearing voices, sounds and music that they heard while in the womb, even after birth.

Things to consider before playing music

  • Playing very loud music (over 50 dB) can overstimulate the baby and cause premature birth. The baby might also suffer from certain hearing disorders when exposed to loud music.
  • Play music that can help you and the baby relax. Lullabies, soft instrumentals and other soothing music can be a good option.
  • Don’t play music for too long as this research is still not proven yet and you obviously don’t want to cause any harm to your baby.

For further details or queries , kindly contact us at  tomotherhoodindia@gmail.com’

Is it safe to have an X-ray during pregnancy?

Yes having an X-ray during pregnancy is generally considered safe. It’s highly unlikely that a diagnostic X-ray during pregnancy will harm a developing baby.

Most X-ray exams including those of the arms, legs, head, teeth or chest won’t expose your reproductive organs to radiation, and a leaded apron and collar can be worn to block any scattered radiation. The exception is abdominal X-rays, which expose your abdomen and your baby to radiation. High doses of radiation can cause changes in a baby’s rapidly growing cells. In turn, it’s possible that these changes could slightly increase a baby’s risk of birth defects or certain cancers, such as leukemia, later in life. Remember, however, that the typical dose of radiation associated with a diagnostic X-ray even one of the abdomen or pelvis doesn’t pose this risk.

Before having an X-ray, tell your doctor if you are or might be pregnant. Depending on the circumstances, it might be possible to do an imaging study that doesn’t involve radiation such as ultrasound or magnetic resonance imaging. In addition, if you have a child who needs an X-ray, don’t hold your child during the exam if you are or might be pregnant. Instead, ask another person to take your place.

If you had a diagnostic X-ray before you knew you were pregnant, remember that any potential risk is exceedingly remote. If you had radiation treatment for a medical condition, the risks might be more significant. Share any concerns about radiation exposure with your health care provider. He or she might consult a medical radiation physicist to calculate your baby’s radiation exposure.

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