Motherhood Hospitals- launches a comprehensive Women and Children’s hospital in Mohali

Motherhood Hospitals- launches a comprehensive Women and Children’s hospital in Mohali

The newly launched hospital in Mohali offers a comprehensive range of services for women of all ages, newborns, and childcare, all conveniently housed under one roof. In addition, the hospital extends counseling services to address mental health concerns, behavioral issues in children, and other challenges that may arise for women, new mothers, and children.

During the event, Mr. Vijayarathna Venkatraman, CEO of Motherhood Hospitals, expressed his enthusiasm, stating, “The opening of this hospital represents a significant milestone in our mission to provide accessible, high-quality healthcare to the diverse neighborhoods of the Tricity. By prioritizing patient-centered care and incorporating the latest medical advancements, we aim to set new standards in the region while serving as a trusted partner in the healthcare journey of women and children.”

In addition to its comprehensive range of services, the hospital in Mohali offers advanced genetic investigations, enabling the early detection of genetic issues in newborn. This empowers expectant mothers to plan for a baby without concerns about potential risk associated with the genetic condition.

The hospital ensures personalized treatment and round-the-clock availability, guaranteeing patients receive timely and individualized attention whenever required.

The hospital also features a specialized fertility center offering preconception counseling, fertility testing for couples, and therapeutic procedures such as IUI, IVF, ICSI, IMSI, PGT, along with empowering programs for women. Additionally, the hospital has initiated a parent support group and established a one-stop clinic for Down syndrome children.

The primary goal is to prevent complications such as preterm birth, stillbirth, lethal malformations, non-lethal problems, and Down syndrome births. Equipped with state-of-the-art ultrasound, 2D and 3D imaging, and CTG machines for monitoring fetal health, the hospital also provides fetal procedures including amniocentesis, chorionic villous sampling, fetal reductions, and other interventions.

The hospital’s dedicated team of obstetricians, pediatricians, and fetal medicine and genetics specialists collaboratively ensure optimal care for both mother and baby. Ongoing surveillance throughout pregnancy helps detect any potential issues, ensuring the best possible outcomes for both parties.

Promoting natural birthing, the hospital encourages proper planning through preconception counseling, lifestyle guidance, and timely scans, complemented by the availability of birthing balls and birthing ropes in the aesthetically designed labor room. By providing a stress-free and pain-free environment, the hospital aims to enhance the birthing experience for mothers.

Dr. Poonam Kumar, Senior Consultant Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Fetal medicine, Motherhood Hospital, Mohali, ‘’The alarming surge in caesarean section rates can be attributed to the evolving lifestyle trends and the prevalent fear of labor pain. As a result, 30-40% of women face heightened risks during pregnancy, primarily due to lifestyle-related changes and the associated challenge of obesity. Our mission is to provide comprehensive care and support to these women, ensuring their safety and well-being throughout their pregnancy journey.’’

‘’The hospital stands out for its exceptional and comprehensive healthcare services, catering to the diverse needs of all age groups. For expectant mothers, we have a specially designed program of counselling sessions by physiotherapist, dietitian, psychologist, and birth attendants. These sessions educate the couple on what to expect during pregnancy and childbirth so that they are prepared, both physically as well as mentally, to handle the whole process. We are proud to have an expert team of specialists who possess extensive knowledge and experience in diagnosing and treating genetic disorders and other pregnancy related complications. Promoting normal and painless delivery is a core principle of our hospital. To achieve this, for the first time in this region, we have implemented the concept of Positive Birthing Experience as recommended by the World Health Organization. Our specially trained staff continuously supports and encourages the woman during birthing process. This minimizes the requirement of interventions and results in higher chances of normal delivery with the least chances of complications. We have fully equipped Medical ICU and Newborn ICU in case of unexpected complications requiring special care for mother or baby.”, said Dr Poonam.

Dr. Neeraj Kumar, HOD, Pediatrics, Motherhood Hospitals, Chandigarh said, “Almost 20-30 % of pregnancies have one or more high risk factors. More than 10% of deliveries are premature babies have chances of disabilities related to neurological, vision, hearing etc. Incidence of prematurity is increasing because of increasing IVF pregnancies in which the chance of prematurity is almost double as compared to normal pregnancies. 2.7% of deliveries in Mohali are at home. Home deliveries, which have higher chances of maternal and newborn complications. Punjab Govt has set a target of 100% institutional deliveries under “Tandarust Punjab Mission Program”. More than 75% of deliveries are taking place in govt hospitals which are overloaded with more than double their capacity. According to the latest NHMS -5 data shows that only 60% of pregnant women in Punjab get recommended ANC checkup.

He also added, “Motherhood Hospitals and Chaitanya Hospital have come together to establish the largest network of hospitals in this region for Women and Child Healthcare. Motherhood Hospital, Mohali is the fourth centre. It will provide comprehensive and high-end facilities related to pregnancy, Gynecology, Newborn ICU and Pediatrics.”

The primary objective is to prevent complications such as preterm birth, stillbirth, and lethal malformations in babies. To achieve this, the hospital provides continuous surveillance throughout pregnancy to monitor any potential issues, ensuring the best possible outcomes for both mother and baby.

Why Doctors Discourage Tickling Babies: Understanding Your Child’s Developmental Needs

Why Doctors Discourage Tickling Babies: Understanding Your Child’s Developmental Needs

Experts warn that tickling a newborn can be harmful as it can cause hiccups and breathing difficulties. Gynaecologist and fetal medicine expert Dr Deepthi Jammi debunked the myths that tickling causes stuttering or makes a baby speak early. Tickling can also cause pain, discomfort, trauma, and anxiety in babies, and excessive tickling can even result in death from asphyxia, brain aneurysms, or stress-related injuries. Dr Jagdish Kathwate, consultant neonatologist and pediatrician, advised against tickling, as it impacts the child’s body in many ways and can lead to chest and stomach pain that requires immediate medical attention. Dr (Major) Manish Mannan concurred and advised parents to avoid tickling the baby if they are unable to find out whether it is pleasant for them.

As seen in the coverage by a recent article on The Indian Express, tickling a baby is a strict no-no. While many people believe that tickling is a harmless way to play with a newborn and make them laugh, experts warn that it could be extremely dangerous for the child.

Gynaecologist and fetal medicine expert Dr Deepthi Jammi took to Instagram to share that one should not tickle a baby as it is harmful for the child, while debunking a few myths related to tickling a newborn. Negating the claim that tickling causes stuttering in babies, Dr Jammi said there is no connection between the two. Similarly, on claims that tickling makes a baby speak early, Dr Jammi said that it is also false.

Dr Jammi said that when a baby is tickled, it starts to laugh out uncontrollably which makes the chest and stomach muscles contract and relax. This movement can cause hiccups in a baby and the tot may even gasp for air. Agreeing with this, Dr Jagdish Kathwate, consultant neonatologist and pediatrician, Motherhood Hospital, Pune, said tickling is a strict no-no.

“Tickling impacts the child’s body in many ways. If the child is tickled too forcefully or even in many sensitive areas, such as the neck or groin, it can cause pain, discomfort and even trauma. The child will be uncomfortable. Moreover, the baby is helpless and will be unable to express whether he/she likes or dislikes it. Excessive tickling can also cause chest and stomach pain, which will require immediate medical attention. Shockingly, the giggle during tickling is involuntary and can induce breathing difficulties,” said Dr Kathwate.

So, tickling can do more harm than good. “Excessive tickling can also lead to anxiety in children. Not only this, but tickling can even cause death from asphyxia, brain aneurysms or other stress-related injuries when done constantly. It is better to avoid tickling the baby to make sure that there are no problems due to it,” said Dr Kathwate.

Dr (Major) Manish Mannan, HOD, pediatrics and neonatology, Mother and Child Unit, Paras Health, Gurugram, concurred. “Occasional stimulus may be pleasant to babies but their parents must always remember tickling should never be against the wishes of the baby, and if you are unable to find out, avoid it. There are many other ways to play with a newborn and make them laugh that are completely safe and harmless.”

In essence, it is important to remember that newborns are fragile and need to be handled with care. While it may seem like tickling is a fun and harmless way to interact with a baby, it can actually cause harm and discomfort. As Dr Kathwate advises, it is better to avoid tickling altogether and find other ways to play with a newborn that are safe and enjoyable for both the baby and the caregiver

Know Your Body: Why doctors advise against tickling a baby

Know Your Body: Why doctors advise against tickling a baby

There are several dos and don’ts when it comes to newborns and their care. From picking them up by supporting the neck to ensuring that their feeding is not delayed, there is much that a newborn needs but cannot often communicate.

Many tend to tickle babies as they think that it is one of the best ways to play with them and make them laugh. However, experts warn that it could be extremely dangerous for the newborn. Here’s why:

Gynaecologist and fetal medicine expert Dr Deepthi Jammi took to Instagram to share that one should not tickle a baby as it is harmful for the child, while debunking a few myths related to tickling a newborn.

Negating the claim that tickling causes stuttering in babies, Dr Jammi said there is no connection between the two. Similarly, on claims that tickling makes a baby speak early, Dr Jammi said that it is also false.

Dr Jammi said that when a baby is tickled, it starts to laugh out uncontrollably which makes the chest and stomach muscles contract and relax. This movement can cause hiccups in a baby and the tot may even gasp for air.

Agreeing with this, Dr Jagdish Kathwate, consultant neonatologist and pediatrician, Motherhood Hospital, Pune, said tickling is a strict no-no.

“Tickling impacts the child’s body in many ways. If the child is tickled too forcefully or even in many sensitive areas, such as the neck or groin, it can cause pain, discomfort and even trauma. The child will be uncomfortable. Moreover, the baby is helpless and will be unable to express whether he/she likes or dislikes it. Excessive tickling can also cause chest and stomach pain, which will require immediate medical attention. Shockingly, the giggle during tickling is involuntary and can induce breathing difficulties,” said Dr Kathwate.

So, tickling can do more harm than good. “Excessive tickling can also lead to anxiety in children. Not only this, but tickling can even cause death from asphyxia, brain aneurysms or other stress-related injuries when done constantly. It is better to avoid tickling the baby to make sure that there are no problems due to it,” said Dr Kathwate.

Dr (Major) Manish Mannan, HOD, pediatrics and neonatology, Mother and Child Unit, Paras Health, Gurugram, concurred. “Occasional stimulus may be pleasant to babies but their parents must always remember tickling should never be against the wishes of the baby, and if you are unable to find out, avoid it. There are many other ways to make your baby happy and bond better with you,” said Dr Mannan.

Other ways to bond with the baby

According to Dr Jammi:

*You can use a few drops of oil to gently massage the child, which also helps to connect with the baby more.

*You can also sing songs or read books to the baby.

*One can even do gentle finger strokes over the body.

 

10-year-old girl gets new life; doctors perform complex surgery to remove paraovarian cyst

10-year-old girl gets new life; doctors perform complex surgery to remove paraovarian cyst

Doctors at Mumbai’s Motherhood Hospitals gave a new lease of life to 10-year-old girl by carrying out low impact laparoscopic surgery on a 10-year-old girl to remove a paraovarian cyst, the size of a small melon.

The patient was able to get rid of abdominal pain and vomiting immediately after the surgery and resumed school with ease in the following week.

Swara Tole, the 10-year-old girl, a resident of Kharghar suddenly complained of severe abdominal pain with multiple episodes of vomiting. Her family members took her to the pediatrician, who suspected it to be common stomach flu, and gave her some medications.

After three days, she had a similar episode again, but her condition worsened as the abdominal pain increased in severity.

Her parents took her to a senior gynecologist, who suggested  them to go for a sonography, which was performed, diagnosing a large ovarian cyst, with no torsion.

Later she prescribed a trial of contraceptive pills to dissolve the cyst. Since her pain and repeated episodes of vomiting were not decreasing, the parents wanted to go for a second opinion.

The patient was then referred to Dr Jainesh at Motherhood Hospital, from Kharghar.

 Dr Jainesh, Consultant Advanced Gynecologic Endoscopic Surgeon, Motherhood Hospitals, Kharghar, said, “On arrival, the patient appeared to have continuous discomfort even while she was sitting in the consulting chamber. She was struggling with continuous deep throbbing pain in her lower abdomen. However, surprisingly her vomiting had completely settled without any medication.”

“This discrepancy raised my suspicions, and I probed a little more into the exact course of the condition. A second round of sonography was performed, which revealed a large paraovarian cyst, however again without torsion,” Dr Jainesh added.

He said that a paraovarian cyst is a fluid-filled sac lying next to the ovary, a non-cancerous pathology. It is usually silent, and asymptomatic, however if complications arise including internal bleeding or infection it can have symptoms like vomiting and severe abdominal pain. In the pediatric population, they are very rare and contribute to less than 4% of any form of pelvic cysts.

In the very early stages of pregnancy, a baby has two structures called a Mullerian duct and Wolffian duct. These become the female and male sexual organs, respectively.

In the case of a baby girl, the Mullerian duct evolves into the uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, and vagina and the Wolffianvijay duct undergoes resorption. In rare cases Wolffian duct remnants, under hormonal influence, start secreting fluids leading to the formation of such cysts. The cysts are usually silent and only incidentally diagnosed on random sonograms. Younger unmarried girls rarely develop this with the average age of presentation around 15 years. Paraovarian cysts in teens often grow large as no routine sonographies are performed and hence, they are missed.

 Dr Jainesh added, “The girl had attained puberty a few months back and had around 3 menstrual cycles, regular in nature. It wasn’t a precocious puberty. When the repeat sonography gave the diagnosis of para-ovarian cyst which showed symptoms, the parents were counselled about surgery. Although OC pills aren’t the solution to get rid of para-ovarian cysts, we didn’t stop her ongoing pills as they would have disturbed her hormonal cycle and likewise menses.”

“In successive days, a special technique of Low Impact Laparoscopy surgery was performed. The intra-operative finding confirmed my suspicions of 2 twists in the large Para ovarian cyst, associated with another rare condition of Isolated Fallopian Tube Torsion. Through small 3 sub centimetric incisions a quick surgery was performed, without a single drop of blood loss,” Dr Jainesh explained.

He said that the entire cyst was removed using state of the art technology and removed through the existing instrument incisions itself. The fallopian tube and ovarian normal anatomical relation were restored, so that her future fertility is unaffected by this surgery.

 

Experts on whether it is safe for women to lift weights during pregnancy

Experts on whether it is safe for women to lift weights during pregnancy

There are numerous dos and don’ts when it comes to pregnancy. The most common ones pertain to diet and exercise — what pregnant women must (or must not) eat or do to maintain her as well as the baby’s health. As such, when a Twitter user asked whether a pregnant woman should weightlift, we also wanted to know the answer. Sharing a video on the microblogging site, he asked, “I can’t believe! Isn’t that bad for the baby?”

While some laughed it off, one user remarked, “Heavy exercise during pregnancy should not be encouraged. It can lead to miscarriage in the early trimester. At this stage, although the foetus is big enough, it can still cause premature labour. Any injury in the mother’s body will affect the baby.”

So, should pregnant women weightlift? Is yes, what should they keep in mind?

Dr Sushruta Mokadam, consultant obstetrician at Motherhood Hospital, Kharadi, Pune told indianexpress.com that as pregnancy causes a transformation in the woman’s body, it experiences certain changes during this crucial period of nine months. “Exercise should be an important part of the new routine as it can help manage aches and pains during the journey from conception to delivery. There are many forms of exercises that can be done during pregnancy to ensure that the mother and the baby stay hale and hearty. As such, light weight lifting is thought to be a good exercise that can strengthen the abdominal and back muscles, increase stamina for labour and delivery, and even perk up the mood,” Dr Mokdam said.

 

That said, it’s advisable that women lift weights and exercise only under the guidance of an expert. “Do not exercise rigorously and listen to your body. Remember that lifting weights with the wrong technique can cause pain and injuries that will require timely intervention. It is better to opt for light weights, of which you can do more repetitions. One will be able to build muscles too. If you feel any pain while working out then discontinue on an immediate basis. Those with any risk factors that might trigger bleeding or preterm labour pains should ideally refrain from undue activity,” Dr Mokdam warned.

The safety and suitability of weightlifting specifically will depend on various factors such as the individual’s overall health, pre-pregnancy fitness level, and any potential complications, said
Dr Akta Bajaj, senior consultant and head-obstetrics gynaecology, Ujala Cygnus Group of Hospitals. “If a woman has been weightlifting regularly before becoming pregnant, she may be able to continue with modifications and guidance from a healthcare provider. It is important to adapt the exercise routine to accommodate the changes and limitations of pregnancy. This may involve reducing the intensity, avoiding certain exercises that put excessive strain on the abdomen or pelvis, and ensuring proper form and technique to minimize the risk of injury,” Dr Bajaj stressed.

Concurring Kunwar Vishwajeet Singh, sustainable fitness lifestyle coach and founder – Body Architects, Dehradun, said that weight training when done safely and with the guidance of a qualified health professional, can provide numerous advantages for pregnant women.

He also listed a few reasons why weight training can be beneficial during pregnancy:

Strength and resilience: Regular weight training helps build strength in a woman’s body, enabling her to better cope with the physical changes and demands of pregnancy. This includes carrying the extra weight, maintaining good posture, and preparing for labour and delivery.

Muscle tone and postural support: Targeted weight training exercises can improve muscle tone and provide better support to the joints and spine, reducing the likelihood of back pain and other musculoskeletal issues common during and after pregnancy.

Bone health: Weight training, especially exercises that involve weight-bearing movements, enhances bone density. This is crucial during pregnancy as hormonal changes affect bone density, and proper strength training can significantly reduce the risk of conditions like osteoporosis.

Mood and mental health: Weight training has been shown to release endorphins and promote positive mental health. Pregnancy brings hormonal and emotional changes, and weight training can help reduce stress, anxiety, and depression.

Faster postpartum recovery: Maintaining strength training throughout pregnancy can contribute to a faster postpartum recovery. Strong muscles provide a solid foundation for the body.

Reduced risk of gestational diabetes: Strength training has been linked to a reduced risk of gestational diabetes during pregnancy.

“When engaging in weight lifting during pregnancy, it is crucial to prioritise the safety and well-being of both the mother and the baby. Make sure to seek guidance from a certified professional who is experienced in training pregnant women. Weight training, when approached responsibly, can play a magical role in supporting pregnant women on their journey to a healthy and resilient pregnancy,” said Singh.

Menstrual Health: Expert Decodes 5 Menstrual Disorders

Menstrual Health: Expert Decodes 5 Menstrual Disorders

During their periods, most women experience excruciating cramps, bloating, mood fluctuations, and irritability. Every month, the endometrium, the medical term for the uterus’ lining, sheds, causing what is known as menstruation. The female chemicals progesterone and oestrogen, which are released by the ovaries, thicken the uterine lining, which then waits for a fertilised egg to attach. If there isn’t an egg, the lining rips, and leaks, which triggers menstruation. You should experience a straightforward, typical menstrual cycle if everything is in order. However, menstrual problems can occur in certain women. 

Symptoms Of Menstrual Disorder

Menstruation disorders are issues related to a woman’s menstrual cycle. Typical signs include:

  • Painful period cramps
  • Excessively abnormal haemorrhage,
  • Intolerance or significant mood fluctuations
  • Emotional anxiety

Prevalent Menstrual Problems

Dysmenorrhea

During menstruation, unpleasant menstrual cramps are a defining feature of dysmenorrhea. They are separated into primary and secondary groups. Primary dysmenorrhea is characterised by cramping pain brought on by a chemical imbalance in the uterine lining. Contrarily, secondary dysmenorrhea refers to painful periods brought on by a medical illness like endometriosis.

Amenorrhea

Amenorrhea, also referred to as missed period, is the lack of menstrual cycles. Amenorrhea is of two types: primary and secondary. 

Secondary amenorrhea is when a normal menstrual cycle begins to become irregular or missing, whereas primary amenorrhea is when a person does not get their period at puberty.

Hypomenorrhea

“The term “hypomenorrhea” describes a very light period. It is linked to unusually little bleeding. Typically, a period lasts less than two days or produces less than 80 millilitres of blood loss”, says Dr Swetha. 

Menorrhagia

Menorrhagia is characterised by extremely severe and ongoing bleeding. There are several variations of this illness, with polymenorrhea—very frequent bleeding—being the most prevalent.

Factors that cause Irregular Periods

In the first two years following the first period, irregular cycles are rather prevalent. Puberty-related hormonal changes are what is responsible for this. 

The doctor warns that young girls’ everyday activities and social lives may be affected if it persists and causes them great distress. There can be a lot of factors that might cause irregular periods:

Imbalances In Hormones

The hormonal interactions between the hypothalamus, pituitary, and ovaries control the menstrual cycle. Menstrual periods may become irregular if there is any change in the hormones’ delicate balance. Hormone profile analysis makes it simple to identify conditions including polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), thyroid abnormalities, and adrenal gland diseases, which are prevalent causes.

Due To Stress

 Changes in eating and sleeping patterns brought on by stress might affect the hypothalamus and pituitary’s ability to release regulating hormones.

Also read: How Does Diet Affect Menstrual Health? Doctor Answers

Lifestyle Aspects

The delicate hormonal balance in the body can be upset by excessive activity, weight gain, or reduction with a significant change in body fat percentage, or both. Similar to how using drugs, smoking, and drinking alcohol can alter the menstrual cycle and lead to irregular periods.

Underlying Health Issues

Heavy and irregular bleeding can be a symptom of conditions such as uterine fibroids, endometriosis, adenomyosis, and Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID). Additionally, several drugs, including those for the treatment of epilepsy and depression, might disrupt menstruation.

All women are susceptible to menstruation problems. The trick is to use caution. One must be able to recognise the condition’s symptoms and indicators and take the appropriate action to manage them. Keep in mind that any alterations to the body should be attended to right away. Visit a healthcare professional to get the answers you need and the required care to prevent consequences.

Do you get rashes when you use pads?

Do you get rashes when you use pads?

Girls suffer a lot during period time. They face mental and physical problems. One of them is the problem caused by sanitary pads. Many people who use pads have itchy thighs and other areas. The heat from using the pads can also cause a rash. For these reasons, many people are switching from sanitary pads to menstrual cups.

What are the doctors saying..

Even sitting and walking becomes difficult when sanitary pads are used. Dr. without problems while using pads. Bharti Ramesh (Senior Consultant – Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Banashankari, Bangalore) suggests some suggestions. Know that.

Medicine in period time..

It is dangerous to take those medicines for periods

Correct pads..

Similarly, choosing good pads is also important. This causes air circulation. Moisture wicking cotton is great. Otherwise, don’t use scented plastic coated pads.

Inner Wear..

Similarly, cotton inner wear can be used to remove such irritation. This can reduce the problem to a large extent.

Once every 4 to 6 hours..

Pads should be changed regularly to avoid problems. By doing this, the humidity will not increase when the pads are used. Pads should be changed every 4 to 6 hours. It helps in preventing moisture.

Clean..

Clean the vagina with a mild, unscented soap and warm water. Do not scrub it hard. This increases irritation. Avoid using strong soaps, perfumed products, and irritating wipes.
​Also Read : Are you cleaning the area with soap.. Be careful…​

Alternative..

You can use other products such as tampons and menstrual cups if the rash worsens with the use of pads. This may reduce the problem.

Using creams.

Some creams are available to reduce the problems caused by using pads. Zinc oxide and petroleum gel can be used in it. This reduces irritation.

Meeting the doctor..

If the problem persists or if the itchiness, pain or any discharge increases, it is best to see a doctor immediately. He will examine you and give you the necessary treatment.

Also Read: If you eat these, sugar and cholesterol will be controlled…

Total skin care..

Not just in the Vegina area. If you want to keep your entire body clean and moisturized, you need to follow a proper skin care routine. Avoid using products that contain chemicals that can irritate the skin.

Everyone’s body is different. So, use a skin care routine according to your needs.

Explained: Malaria Infection And The Fetal Risks It Can Cause During Pregnancy

Explained: Malaria Infection And The Fetal Risks It Can Cause During Pregnancy

Malaria is a disease that is transmitted through an infected mosquito that carries the Plasmodium parasite. When this infected mosquito bites a pregnant woman, the parasite travels to the liver where it matures. After several days, the mature parasites enter the bloodstream and infect the red blood cells which multiply causing the infected cells to burst open. 

What causes malaria?

Malaria occurs due to a bite of a mosquito infected with the Plasmodium parasite. There are four kinds of malaria parasites that infect humans namely Plasmodium vivax, P. ovale, P. malariae, and P. falciparum. Amongst these, P. falciparum is more severe and those who contract this form of malaria have a higher death risk. A mother infected with P. falciparum also known as congenital malaria can pass the disease to her baby at birth. 

Since Malaria infects the blood, it can also be transmitted through:

1. an organ transplant

2. a transfusion

3. use of shared needles or syringes

The symptoms of malaria develop within 10 days to 4 weeks after the infection. There are a few rare cases where the malarial parasites enter the body but remain dormant for a long period of time.  

 

Common symptoms of malaria include:

1. chills ranging from moderate to severe

2. high fever and severe headache

3. sweating and muscle pain

4. Nausea and vomiting

5. abdominal pain

6. diarrhea and bloody stool

7. anemia

Why are Pregnant Women at a higher risk? 

Due to the changes in a woman’s immune system during pregnancy along with the presence of a new organ namely the placenta, which is an ideal location for parasites, pregnant women may lose some of their immunity to malaria infection. 

Adults who have survived malaria infections throughout their lifetimes may become partially immune to severe or fatal malaria however malaria infection during pregnancy stages have adverse effects on both mother and fetus ranging from maternal anemia, fetal loss, premature delivery, intrauterine growth retardation, delivery of low birth-weight infants along with a high-risk factor for death.

 

In terms of being exposed to the infection, women in their first and second pregnancies or women who are HIV-positive are likely to undergo consequences. 

Complications

The adverse problems of malaria vary by transmission level depending on the type of malaria transmission area which is categorized under stable (high) or unstable (low) transmission. 

Maternal complications

In high-transmission areas for malaria, the baseline immunity to malaria is decreased by pregnancy. A non-immune pregnant woman is likely to develop a severe form of illness and complications such as-  

1. Anaemia: It is a condition where a mother’s blood does not have sufficient healthy red blood cells to carry oxygen to the tissues and the baby. During pregnancy, a mother’s body is required to produce more blood to support the growth and development of her baby; however, if the body lacks iron or certain nutrients, the production of red blood cells is not possible.

2. Increased risk of hypoglycaemia, a condition where there is abnormally low levels of glucose in the blood. 

3. Cerebral malaria is a severe form of P. falciparum malaria where a person experiences a coma that persists for more than 30 minutes after a seizure.

 

4. Acute pulmonary oedema is a condition where fluid is accumulated in the interstitium and alveoli. This condition prevents the diffusion of gases, reduces blood oxygen, and increases CO2. When a pregnant woman is in contact with this condition and is not diagnosed or treated promptly,  it may lead to death for both mother and the child. 

Fetal complications

Both P. falciparum and P. vivax cause complications that can affect the fetus. Common problems result in unfavourable consequences such as- 

1. Spontaneous abortion.
 

2. Premature delivery.

3. Stillbirth.

4. Intrauterine growth restriction.

5. Low birth weight – common.

6. Intrauterine fetal death.

1. Increased mortality rates.

2. Congenital malaria presents fever, irritability, feeding difficulties, jaundice, or anaemia.

3. Increased rates of other infections in adulthood

4. Malnutrition.

Prevention

Despite not having a specific vaccine to prevent malaria during pregnancy, listed below are the possible measures- 

1. Using insecticide-treated bed nets or sleeping under a mosquito net. 

2. Receiving iron/ folate supplements against anemia.

3. Intermittent preventive treatment (IPTp) for HIV-negative women by the second trimester
 

4. Consumption of folic acid supplements in moderate quantities to prevent defects in their infants

5. Using bug sprays to prevent infection

In conclusion, it is important to talk to a healthcare professional about long-term prevention if you live in an area where malaria is common during pregnancy. 

World Environment Day 2023: How microplastics are affecting your child’s health

World Environment Day 2023: How microplastics are affecting your child’s health

Microplastics, the tiny fragments of plastics less than 5 millimetres in size, are becoming a threat to not just our environment and surroundings but also our health. Microplastics originating from plastic bottles, tiffin, containers, chips packets, single-use straws are making its way into our body. These particles are also found in oceans, rivers, soil, and even in the air we breathe. Small children are at an increased risk of ingesting microplastics as they frequently put daily-use objects into their mouth. Microplastics can cause digestive issues, inflammation, and disrupt nutrient absorption. They can also cause developmental delay in children. They can also make their way to developing foetus. It is important to prevent your exposure to microplastics and stay away from any kind of plastic packaging, bottles or lunchbox.

“Microplastics tend to invite a plethora of health problems in children. These chemicals are associated with various health problems such as reproductive and obesity, organ problems, and even developmental delays in children. It is a known fact that obesity is the mother of all diseases and has become an epidemic in India. Obesity impacts all the organs of the body. Furthermore, you will also be shocked to know that we ingest microplastics just by eating, drinking, and breathing. According to various studies, mothers can pass microplastics via the placenta to a developing foetus. These chemicals cause serious harm to the health of the children. Thus, parents should be mindful when it comes to their child’s health,” says Dr Jagdish Kathwate, Consultant Neonatologist & Pediatrician, Motherhood Hospital Pune.

Dr Kathwate says it’s important to steer clear of plastic packaging and glass bottles must be preferred to plastic ones. It is also important to not give your children plastic toys to play.

“It is the need of the hour to speak to the doctor and clear all the doubts regarding this. Not only this, these chemicals also alter the immune system. It is essential to ensure that parents try to limit the exposure to microplastics found in products and in the environment, and the toxic chemicals linked to them. Do not give your children food products with plastic packaging. Opt for glass milk bottles instead of plastic ones to feed your baby. Do not give plastic toys and objects to children who put them in their mouths. Although, you can allow them to play with wooden objects,” adds Dr Kathwate.

How to deal with the threat of microplastics

“All of us have been reading and discussing about the detrimental health effects of microplastics since long. We are all convinced that it is harmful and alarming. Now, the need of the hour is to provide concrete solutions to curb this issue. Our Indian Govt already took the first positive step in 2022 to ban the Single Use Plastics (SUP), which was a major contributor to microplastics. Almost about 30-35% of the microplastics is contributed from wear and tear of different types of plastics. Banning of SUP is the right step, as these plastics cannot be effectively recycled. It is also against our policy of circular economy practices to landfill it or burn or incinerate it. The second solution is to encourage recycling of other plastic products after its utility. This requires a concerted effort from all stakeholders, says Sanjay Mehta, President, Material Recycling Association of India (MRAI – the apex body of recycling trade in India).

Mehta says segregation is important and one must keep it in mind that before discarding the plastic container, it would be a responsible step to try and clean the container as far as possible.

“This will ensure the product to be recycled and ensure circular economy. Logistics is a major challenge, to make the recycling of plastics a viable proposition. Government could support through effective implementation of EPR/Advance recycling fee, so that the recycling of plastics is viable and no indiscriminate dumping happens, which leads to microplastics. Using the plastics for road making is not an effective way of circular economy. It also contributes to almost 7% of microplastics. Hence, the most environmental way of curbing microplastics is to ensure the recyclability of plastics,” adds Mehta.

Is it PMS or premenstrual dysphoric disorder? 3 ways to find out

Is it PMS or premenstrual dysphoric disorder? 3 ways to find out

Let’s talk about something that many women can relate to—the ups and downs of the menstrual cycle. That time when you count the days to Aunt Flo’s arrival, brings along some unwelcome guests called premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Now imagine feeling like a balloon about to pop with bloating, having your breasts become tender and sensitive, dealing with mood swings as well as stress and irritability. It is like a hormonal roller-coaster that can make you feel off balance. But wait, there’s more! For some women, PMS takes a more intense form called PMDD, which stands for premenstrual dysphoric disorder.

It is important to understand that PMS affects different women in different ways. For some, it is just a minor inconvenience, but for others, it can be more like a storm that disrupts their daily lives. The good news is that PMS symptoms can be managed. However, if you find yourself struggling with PMS or suspect you might have PMDD, it’s worth talking to a healthcare professional.

To help you understand whether you are dealing with PMS or PMDD, Health Shots spoke to Dr Thejaswini J, Consultant – Obstetrician and Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospitals, Electronic City, Bengaluru.

Here are some products that you can try:

Can severe PMS be PMDD?

Dr Thejaswini says, “PMS and PMDD are two distinct conditions that affect women before their menstrual period. While they share some similarities, PMDD is considered a more severe and debilitating form of PMS but not all cases of severe PMS are classified as PMDD.” With PMDD, the symptoms hit harder and last longer, typically affecting the week leading up to your period. One moment you are on cloud nine, and the next, a tiny annoyance can make you want to scream. We are talking about severe mood swings, intense irritability, anxiety, depression, and physical discomforts like bloating and headaches. PMDD can really throw a wrench in your daily life, making it difficult to work and do daily activities.

PMS vs PMDD

PMS and PMDD are both related to the menstrual cycle and can cause physical and emotional symptoms in individuals. However, they differ in terms of severity, duration, and specific symptoms.

1. Symptoms

PMS: Common symptoms include bloating, breast tenderness, fatigue, mood swings, irritability, food cravings and mild depression.

PMDD: PMDD symptoms include severe mood swings, irritability, anxiety, depression, feelings of hopelessness, anger, difficulty concentrating, fatigue, and physical symptoms such as bloating, breast tenderness, and headaches.

2. Severity

PMS: PMS symptoms may cause discomfort and mild disruption in daily life, but they do not significantly impair functioning or quality of life.

PMDD: PMDD symptoms are more severe and disruptive, often interfering with daily activities, work, relationships, and overall quality of life.

3. Duration

PMS: PMS symptoms typically occur in a week or two leading up to menstruation and usually resolve once menstruation starts.

PMDD: PMDD symptoms typically occur a week or two before menstruation and significantly improve within a few days after menstruation starts.

Keeping track of your menstrual cycle symptoms will help you differentiate between PMS and PMDD. You can spot patterns in your symptoms by keeping track of their severity. Also, you can then bring this information to a healthcare professional for additional evaluation and diagnosis. A healthcare professional can assess your symptoms, medical history, and any other relevant factors to determine whether you are experiencing PMS or if the symptoms meet the criteria for a diagnosis of PMDD.