Category: Health

Immunization: 5 Reasons Why It Is Not A Matter Of Choice

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Immunization, also known as vaccination, is one of the most effective and important methods to protect against infectious diseases. Immunization works by stimulating the body’s immune system to produce antibodies that can fight off specific infections. These antibodies provide long-lasting protection against diseases, often for a lifetime, and can help prevent the spread of contagious illnesses.

Here are five key points to understand why immunization can’t be a matter of choice.

  1. Immunization saves lives: Vaccines have been successful in preventing serious diseases such as polio, measles, and tuberculosis, which have historically caused significant morbidity and mortality. By vaccinating people against these diseases, we can save millions of lives each year.
  2. It is safe: Vaccines are thoroughly tested and approved for use by regulatory bodies globally. The vaccines used in immunization programs are highly safe and effective, and the risks of serious side effects are very low.
  3. Immunization protects the community: When enough people are vaccinated against a disease, it creates herd immunity, which helps protect those who cannot receive vaccinations for medical reasons or who are too young to receive them. This also helps to reduce the spread of disease in the community, making outbreaks less likely to occur.
  4. It is cost-effective: The cost of vaccination is far lower than the cost of treating someone who contracts a vaccine-preventable disease. Immunization not only saves money on treatment but also reduces the number of hospitalizations, doctor visits, and missed workdays due to illness.
  5. Protection for Travel: Immunization is essential for travel, especially to certain countries where diseases such as yellow fever, typhoid, and hepatitis are prevalent. Many countries require proof of immunization against certain diseases before allowing entry.

In conclusion, immunization is essential for preventing the spread of deadly diseases, protecting communities, and saving lives. It is a safe and cost-effective way to keep individuals healthy and prevent the spread of diseases. Vaccination is a crucial public health measure, and it is important for everyone to be aware of its benefits and get vaccinated on time.

What are the common complication during pregnancy?

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Pregnancy is a natural process, which ideally requires a minimal or non-invasive procedure. However, there are few complications that may occur during pregnancy which require immediate medical attention to ease the process. The complications may affect either the mother’s or the baby’s health and sometimes both. Most of the complications can be avoided or treated with the right supervision and treatment.

Loss of pregnancy within the first 20 weeks is termed as a miscarriage. A miscarriage happens when there are chromosomal abnormalities in the fertilised egg which keep the embryo from developing further.

The first symptom to identify a miscarriage is excessive vaginal bleeding. However, it is common to spot blood during early pregnancy. It is best to consult the doctor at the earliest to detect a miscarriage.

 

Preeclampsia

This is a serious complication which can occur during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy, causing high blood pressure. Women with preeclampsia are advised to deliver the baby at the earliest. If it is too early to deliver the baby, the mother and baby will be under medical surveillance until the due date.

This condition can also lead to some serious problems and affect other organs.

An ideal time for delivery is once the mother reaches 37 weeks of pregnancy. If the baby is delivered before 37 weeks, it is a preterm birth and the baby is considered a premature baby. A preterm birth can sometimes be fatal to the baby.

 

Gestational diabetes

This condition occurs when the pregnant woman cannot process her sugar intake. This fairly common condition is serious enough to cause complications during pregnancy. Therefore, it is important for the mother to maintain a healthy diet and exercise plan in order to deliver a healthy baby.

A poorly-maintained diet will lead to sugar imbalance in the blood. This problem can be cured by modifying the diet accordingly. In few cases, insulin will be prescribed by the Doctor to help keep sugar levels in control.

Ectopic pregnancy

An ectopic pregnancy is when the fertilised egg attaches itself to places other than the uterus. 1 out of 50 pregnancies is an ectopic pregnancy. It occurs in the fallopian tubes, which aren’t designed for holding a growing embryo. The growing embryo creates a rupture in the fallopian tubes and causes internal bleeding. One can identify an ectopic pregnancy through symptoms like vaginal bleeding, sharp pain in the intestines, weakness and some others.

This condition can be cured if a doctor is immediately consulted upon experiencing a sharp pain or spotting blood.

As the famous saying goes, “prevention is better than cure”. It is important for a pregnant woman to be in a positive and healthy environment.

At Stork Home, we believe that every woman is capable of giving birth naturally and is treated with utmost care and warmth. We always encourage the mother to follow the required diet, therefore, avoiding any kind of complication. However, during any complication, our specialist team of doctors, midwives and support staff are on their toes to provide the required care and treatment to the mother and the baby.

Is heavy bleeding normal during menstruation?

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Heavy bleeding during menstruation is a fairly common problem. It is also one of the most ignored problems, often waived off as something normal. An abnormal menstruation, with heavy bleeding, big clots, and cramps, needs immediate medical attention. Visit your doctor immediately in such a case. 

Women with heavy bleeding during menstruation experience severe cramps which make day-to-day functioning difficult. Effective medical treatment can cure the issue.

  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding
  • Need to change the pad/tampon every hour
  • Big blood clots
  • Need to change over soaked pad/tampon in the middle of the night
  • Periods lasting more than 7 days
  • Women with heavy menstrual bleeding also experience fatigue, shortness of breath and anaemia.

Hormone imbalance: A thin line builds up inside the uterus. It sheds during periods. Estrogen, makes the lining thicker, whereas Progesterone makes it thinner. It is important that these hormones are balanced. If estrogen levels are high, the lining gets thicker and leads to heavy bleeding when it is shed.
Fibroids and Polyps:  Fibroids and polyps are non-harmful growths within the uterus. These cause heavy bleeding during periods. In many cases, fibroids influence the blood flow.
Cancer:  Women in their postmenopausal phase, or those who have had an abnormal Pap test in the past, are potential victims of uterine and cervical cancers. These cancers cause excessive and prolonged bleeding.
Bleeding disorders:  Mostly, these disorders are inherited. They cause blood clots and heavy menstrual bleeding.
Medical conditions:  Women with liver disease, kidney disease and thyroid issues are more likely to develop heavy bleeding.
Pregnancy complications:  A miscarriage causes heavy periods. Ectopic pregnancy also causes heavy bleeding. During this pregnancy, the fertilized eggs get attached outside the uterus. 
Intrauterine device:  This birth control device is a common cause for heavy bleeding. Many women use IUDs for birth control. This can lead to heavy menstrual bleeding.

At Stork Home, we have the finest gynecologists. They provide holistic care and treatment for a range of women’s medical conditions. We provide specific treatment for heavy menstrual bleeding. Our experts take various factors into consideration. They discuss the medical history and menstrual cycle period. The treatment is continued after taking into account the woman’s tolerance levels. She is given absolute freedom to make the right, informed choice for herself.

Heavy menstrual bleeding is treated with surgery on an Outpatient basis and the patient is likely to be discharged the same day.

How to stay healthy during a monsoon pregnancy?

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How to stay healthy during a monsoon pregnancy?

One of the most awaited seasons to get relief from the summer heat, monsoon is loved by all. But for women who are pregnant during the summer season, monsoon doesn’t bring much relief. However, you can make the best of monsoon by taking some special care and making some changes in your lifestyle.

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Here’s what you can adopt to make your monsoon pregnancy a lovely one:

  • Clothes: As the level of humidity increases during monsoon, you will sweat more than summer. Moreover, pregnancy leads to fluctuation in body temperature and you may often feel your temperature to be high. So, to stay comfortable, wear cotton clothes that are a size bigger. Cotton will absorb the sweat easily and keep you dry.
  • Personal Hygiene: Hygiene is one of the most important factors to remain free from infectious diseases. As monsoon brings rain and the water gets dirty due to sewage, mud etc., it may lead to variety of infections. So, don’t go outside barefoot during pregnancy. Stay indoors as much as possible and if you have to go out, make sure to wash your hands and feet with mild disinfectant soap immediately after returning home.

Take bath with Neem water at least once every day during your monsoon pregnancy. It will help in preventing various skin problems. And whenever you sweat, wipe your face, hands and the back of your neck with a wet cloth. It will freshen you instantly.

  • Keep your Home Clean: If you are not working, then you have to pass most of your time at home during pregnancy. So, it becomes very necessary to keep your home free from infection. Use good quality mild disinfectants to clean the floors and bathroom. You can even burn dried Neem leaves to keep away flies and mosquitoes.
  • Keep Hydrated: During pregnancy, it is very necessary to stay hydrated. Drink plenty of water and make sure to have filtered water only. Unfiltered water carries lots of germs causing varied health problems.
  • Eat Healthy Food: Stay away from street foods during monsoon. In fact, street food is not at all good for pregnant women as it may carry different types of germs. As your baby in the womb will receive nutrients from the food you eat, have a healthy and balanced diet.

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Tips for pregnant women during monsoon:

  • Carry an umbrella or a raincoat whenever you step out of your house.
  • Wear comfortable footwear which is not slippery.
  • Wash fruits and vegetables properly before eating or cooking.
  • Stay away from fish and prawns during the rainy season; as this is the time they breed, and you may suffer from stomach infections.
  • Don’t go near open wires or any electrical appliances which may harm you.
  • Inform your family members if you are going out.

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How To Safeguard From Summer Heat During Pregnancy

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Summer which is both hated and loved has arrived. With temperatures soaring and hot winds blowing, it becomes very difficult to cope during summers now-a-days. The best way to enjoy the flavours of summer is by being prepared to beat the heat.

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This is the time of the year you can nourish your body and mind with delicious seasonal fruits like mangoes, watermelons, pineapples etc. which are loaded with variety of nutrients. These fruits not only make you healthy and feel refreshed but also help in making your skin glow and hair shine.

However, getting the best of out of summer depends on how you beat the heat and enjoy the offerings of the season. Here are some tips to stay cool and healthy during summer.

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  • One of the most important things during summer is staying hydrated. So, drink lots of fluids like water, fruit and vegetable juices etc. It will help you to retain the fluids lost while sweating. Carry a water bottle along with you whenever you step out of your house.
  • Using an umbrella, hat and sunglasses will help you avoid direct contact with sunrays and keep you comfortable.
  • Have a proper breakfast during summer as it prevents dizziness and low blood pressure. Have small but frequent meals during the hot days as it will keep you healthy.
  • Stay away from heavy foods and focus on light and refreshing food options. Light meals are easy to digest making you feel comfortable during the summer season.

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  • To stay cool and comfortable, wear loose fitting cotton clothes and flip flops.
  • Avoid alcoholic drinks, caffeine etc. during summer as they may speed up the loss of fluids.
  • Avoid staying in closed, parked cars during summer which may lead to suffocation etc.
  • Whenever you go out use sunscreen lotion adequately to prevent tan and rashes.
  • Have lot of seasonal fruits and fresh vegetables to keep you fit and healthy.

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Whole grains and their benefits during pregnancy

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During pregnancy, it is very essential to have whole grains in your diet. A good source of nutrients, whole grains keep you and your baby fit and strong. So, if you are pregnant, then discover the lovely world of whole grains which will benefit you and your developing baby through various ways.

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Some of the benefits of whole grains:

  • Good source of folic acid: Whole grains are a good source of folic acid, a type of vitamin B. It helps in generating new cells in your body. Deficiency of folic acid causes diseases like anaemia, stroke, cancer, osteoporosis, dementia and cognitive deficit in pregnant women. It also leads to premature infants, low birth weight and babies with neural tube defects (NTDs). So, if a pregnant woman consumes the required quantity of whole grains in their diet, it can, to a great extent, prevent major birth defects especially in the baby’s brain and spine. Cereal and fortified bread provides a good amount of folic acid during pregnancy.
  • Contains high fibre: Whole grains contain a good quantity of fibre of two types — soluble and insoluble. Both are beneficial for women during pregnancy. And as fibre digests slowly, it makes you feel fuller for a longer period of time. However, all types of whole grains are not high-fibre. Pregnant women can take bran, brown bread, oats and barley in their diet.
  • Delivers essential minerals: Whole grains are a good source of minerals required for a healthy pregnancy. Iron, magnesium, zinc etc. can be received from whole grains which help in preventing anaemia, build bones and keep your immune system alert.
  • Contains resistant starch: Complex carbs like brown rice and oatmeal are whole grain sources of resistant starch. These types of whole grains are ideal for women during pregnancy as they help fight constipation and combat nausea.

Some good options for grain sources are:

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Whole-Grain-Food

  • Cooked oatmeal, wheat and barley
  • Brown rice
  • Bran
  • Whole wheat bagel
  • Raisin or plain bagel
  • Whole grain muffin
  • Cooked whole wheat pasta and noodles
  • Whole grain pancake or waffle
  • Brown bread

So, eating healthy foods like whole grains, milk, vegetables, fruits etc. during your pregnancy is one of the best things you can do to keep yourself and the baby in your womb healthy.

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Managing food allergies and intolerances in babies

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Food allergies and intolerances in babies have become quite common and almost 1 in 12 babies suffer from them. So, it is very essential for mothers to take proper care of their babies regarding food. Your baby can have food allergies if you have a family history of food allergy, hay fever, asthma or eczema.

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What is food allergy?

Food allergies in babies occur when their immune system has an adverse reaction to harmless proteins in food and produces antibodies. The immune system responds to the food as toxic. It occurs immediately or after some time of having food.

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Symptoms of food allergy:

  • Redness on skin and dermatitis
  • Nasal congestion
  • Itchy eyes and mouth
  • Vomiting, diarrhoea and stomach cramps
  • Swollen face and eyelids
  • Swollen tongue and lips
  • Frequent crying and distress
  • Persistent cough, difficulty in swallowing, wheezing, shortness of breath and hoarse voice is called anaphylaxis, a severe and life-threatening food allergy

The most common foods that causes allergy in babies are:

  • Milk
  • Egg
  • Peanut

What is food intolerance?

Food intolerance in babies is caused by some substance present in the food they eat. It is not caused by the immune system responding to the food. Often, food intolerance occurs after two days of having the intolerance prone substance in food.

Symptoms of food intolerance:

  • Skin redness and dermatitis
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhoea
  • Stomach pain
  • Vomiting

The most common form of food intolerance that occurs in babies are:

  • Milk or lactose intolerance
  • Some react to strawberries
  • Tomato can also cause food intolerance

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Food allergies and intolerances in babies can be controlled in the following ways:

  • Avoid the food: It is very important to avoid the food that causes allergies and intolerance in your baby. So, you should be aware of these foods. Carefully read the food labels and see if words like ‘whey’, ‘casein’ etc. are there. Presence of such words means, having the product can lead to allergies.
  • Have an emergency plan: Parents should speak to their doctor to give them an emergency plan which will help them to recognise allergies and intolerances and if medical attention is needed or no

Diagnosing food allergies or intolerances

If you find that your baby is having a food allergy or intolerance and not getting better, you should always consult your doctor. If the allergies and intolerances are not mild, they will be cured by taking the prescribed medicines. Some tests may need to be done, as well. As mothers breastfeed their babies, they should not eat the foods that causes allergies and intolerances during the pregnancy and breasting period.

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The Goodness of Milk During Pregnancy

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During pregnancy, milk and milk related items provide various types of nutrients to the pregnant woman and her developing baby. According to clinical research, it is found that milk consumption during pregnancy shows better results. Moreover, it benefits newborn babies during the early stages of their lives. So, it is recommended to have at least three glasses of milk daily directly or indirectly.

Consuming-Almond-Milk-During-Pregnancy

 

Benefits of milk during pregnancy:

As milk is one of the dietary sources of nutrients, intake of milk during pregnancy is very important. The following nutrients which are very essential for the proper growth of the foetus and also for the mother can be derived by consumption of milk.

  • Calcium

Milk is a vital source of calcium for human beings. During pregnancy, if the intake of calcium rich foods like milk is not adequate, then the foetus will not meet the demanding needs of calcium for healthier bones and teeth. So, it is very necessary for the mom-to-be to have the required quantity of calcium in the form of milk to keep her bones and and that of her developing baby strong. Drinking milk regularly will make both their bodies strong and flexible and also help in strengthening nails.

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  • Vitamin D

Milk is one of the few dietary sources of Vitamin D, which helps to prevent low birth weight, neonatal rickets and other associated problems.

  • Protein

An excellent source of protein, milk, if taken adequately, provides the protein needs of pregnant women. A cup of low fat milk daily provides 8.22 gm of proteins. Protein plays an important role during pregnancy as it serves a number of important functions like proper blood supply, build-up of the uterus, remodelling breasts and tissues of the baby. Inadequate consumption of protein can lead to low birth weight babies and other heart related problems during pregnancy.

Which type of milk is good for pregnant women?

According to research, it is found that babies born to mothers who drank sufficient milk during pregnancy are more likely to be tall as teenagers.

  • Low fat milk: It is not necessary to drink whole milk during pregnancy as the presence of unsaturated fats in whole milk is unhealthy for expecting mothers. So, it is better to consume low fat or non-fat milk. You can add skimmed milk to your diet in order to decrease the level of saturated fat.
  • Pasteurised milk: Drinking raw or unpasteurised milk or having anything made from raw milk is not safe for pregnant women. It increases the risk of various diseases for both the mother and the baby as it can carry microbes. So, it is very essential to have pasteurised milk. Generally, during pasteurisation microbes get destroyed when the milk is heated at a high temperature.

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Glycemic index of food you eat during pregnancy

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Introduction:

During pregnancy, food with low glycemic index reduces the risk of various complications such as gestational diabetes. In addition, it helps in reducing the risk of high birth weight of the baby during delivery.

GI-1

A woman who is pregnant gains more weight on normal diet as compared to one with low glycemic index. Pregnant women can cut down excess weight to around 20 per cent if they follow a healthy diet with low glycemic index. So, it is very essential to have food with low glycemic index during pregnancy. However, take recommendations from your doctor before going on low glycemic index food.

What is glycemic index of food?

Glycemic index (GI) of food is the number which is associated with carbohydrate containing food indicating its effect on the blood sugar level of a person. Different foods have different glycemic index and a value of 100 is said to be the standard one. It is equivalent to pure glucose. This is a new method of analysing food, giving you the impact of particular food on the blood sugar level of your body.

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Suggestions to help you to take low glycemic index food:

  • Plan your meals and snacks for a couple of weeks using the glycemic index chart.
  • While shopping, carry the chart along with you, it will help you buy food that is low in GI.
  • Eat whole grains as they have more nutrients than refined ones; during pregnancy, it is very essential that you and your baby get proper nutrition.
  • You can include oatmeal, barley, whole wheat bread, whole wheat pasta, high bran cereals and sprouted whole wheat products.
  • Have plenty of vegetables in your meals; some of the healthy options with low GI are broccoli, cauliflower, tomato, peas, carrot, cabbage, mushrooms, corn, eggplant, beans and sweet potatoes. Potatoes and pumpkin are high GI foods.
  • Eat plenty of fruits as they have lots of nutrients which are required for proper development of the baby. Oranges, plums, cherries, coconuts, kiwis, peaches and strawberries are some of the fruits with low GI. Dates and watermelons should be avoided during pregnancy as they are high GI fruits.

 

GI3

  • It is essential to have low-fat dairy products as they provide calcium, responsible for healthy growth of bones, teeth and nails of the baby. Most of the low-fat dairy products are low in GI. Milk, yogurt and cottage cheese are not low but moderate GI foods.
  • You can eat white fish and chicken during pregnancy as these are low GI food. Pork, lamb and beef should be avoided.

Conclusion:

As the glycemic index of food you eat during pregnancy plays a vital role in the development of the baby, you should eat food with low GI. But don’t forget to consult your doctor before going through such diet.

Eat healthy and give birth to a healthy baby.

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How to protect yourself from the Summer heat during pregnancy?

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During pregnancy, it is quite normal to feel hotter than usual. Hormonal changes during pregnancy, increased flow of blood and the heat produced by the placenta are factors responsible for high body temperature in pregnant women. But getting too hot is not good at all for the pregnant woman and the developing baby. Heat and humidity during summer makes you more uncomfortable when you are pregnant. The high body temperature added to the summer heat makes life more miserable. So, it is very necessary for you to remain cool during summer.

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Some tips for a cool and healthy pregnancy during summer:

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  • Staying hydrated is very important during pregnancy. Drink lots of fluids so that it will replace the fluids you lose in the form of sweat.
  • Remain indoors as much as possible and avoid exposure to direct sunlight.
  • Carry a water bottle along with you when you go out of your house.
  • Keep a small water-filled spray bottle with you to mist yourself whenever you feel warm.
  • Place a damp cloth on the back of your neck and forehead to keep yourself cool during summer.
  • Do your outdoor work in the morning or evening hours when the heat is low.
  • In order to prevent your rooms from heating up from direct sunlight, keep the curtains closed.
  • Take quick showers frequently during summer; it will help you to keep cool.
  • Wear loose fitting cotton clothes which will help avoid skin rashes under the breasts, abdomen etc. during pregnancy and keep you cool and comfortable.
  • Wear a light headscarf when you go out; it will help reduce direct sunlight.
  • Wear flip flops to keep your feet cool.
  • Avoid alcoholic beverages, caffeine and street food during summer.
  • You can refresh yourself by having cold fruit or vegetable salad; it is not only refreshing but healthy, as well.

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  • Minimise intake of salt; it will help in combating water retention, making you stay more comfortable during summer.
  • You can exercise during the cooler time of the day and avoid doing it till the point of exhaustion.
  • Stay in cool places as much as possible at the time of your pregnancy during summer.

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