Direcion of Health

Author: Sanumriaz

  • Caesarean: 13 Risks, Complications and its Outcomes

    Caesarean: 13 Risks, Complications and its Outcomes

    What is caesarean

    When baby is not given birth by natural process of labor through vagina then a surgery is performed to take out baby from uterus is called caesarean. In this procedure a cut is made in lower belly and by cutting uterus and abdominal wall the baby is taken out directly. This procedure is performed under the supervision of medical experts. This procedure is performed under general anesthesia or spinal anesthesia.

    There is planned as well as unplanned caesarean surgery as well depending on the situation

    Pre-planned caesarean

    There are some conditions in which doctor after discussion with patient makes decision to go for caesarean as normal birth is difficult or impossible. They take this decision from the history of scans which were performed during pregnancy.  She makes decision prior to labor pains. Main purpose of caesarean is to give safe birth to baby and mother.

    Following are some pre-planned caesarean.

    1. Some time position of baby is not normal i.e. head is not in uterus. Some times its feet inside the uterus or baby is sidewise. In both conditions to give normal vaginal birth is difficult or not possible.
    2. If she had caesarean before. In this condition it becomes difficult to give normal birth to second baby if mother had caesarean before.
    3. At times placenta develop at the opening of cervix during pregnancy. This condition is known as placenta previa. With normal labor it is not possible to give birth in this condition. So gynecologist advises the mother to go for surgery.
    4. It is difficult for a mother to deliver more than one baby through vaginal birth. When there are duplet, triplet or more babies then it is recommended that go for c- section.
    5. Size of baby is important factor that determines how it is going to born. In some cases vagina Is smaller and baby can’t move through it.  So doctor goes for planned surgery

    Emergency caesarean

    caesarean

    There are some emergency condition in which doctor decides to go for caesarean rather than normal vaginal delivery. Because life of mother or baby is at risk so they perform surgery to safe life of both mother and baby.

    Here are some emergency conditions in which surgical birth to baby becomes mandatory.

    1. Due to high blood pressure or some other reason placenta breaks down partially or completely. When it breaks the bridge that connects mother with fetus also breaks. This is a severe condition which requires immediate surgery as fetus survival depends on placenta. In most condition if surgery delayed for few hours results in death of fetus inside womb. It can easily identified able as excessive bleeding starts when it breaks.
    2. At times labor pain is not progressing normally. It may be hyper intensive or very slow and taking more time than naturally it should take. So it becomes risky for mother and baby to tolerate such pain for longer period of the so doctor may go for surgery.
    3. There is sac filled with water and other vital materials. In some situations this sac ruptures due to any condition and life of baby becomes in danger so  doctors try to safe life of fetus so they recommend c- section. In such situation surgery becomes vital s survival of the baby depends on water. And if there will be no water baby’s survival is difficult.
    4. There are some cases during which labor prolongs and baby passes meconium inside womb and it gets mixed with amniotic fluid.  This is harmful for both mother and baby. It raises serious medical attention. In this condition doctor goes for surgery.
    5. It is advised to pregnant women to regularly check the movement of baby especially in the morning time. If baby movement is slower or not moving go for checkup. In this condition if heart rate of baby is not normal then surgery may be performed

    Risks of caesarean

    cesarean

    Although it is safe and common procedure nowadays but still it has its own risk and consequences as any other surgery have. Here we are going to discuss its risks and consequences.

    1. There is more blood loss during surgery as any surgical procedure is performed by cutting the skin and muscles. So there is more loss of blood as compared to normal surgery
    2. Sometimes infection may occur in the lining of uterus which will be needed to properly taken care of.
    3. There is numbness feeling in lower abdomen which will remain for rest of the life. You will not be able to feel any sensation in this area. Because when cut is made it has also cut the connection between cells so you can’t feel anything in this area.
    4. There is more chance that baby may develop respiratory problems and needed to stay in incubators for some time.
    5. You need to be hospitalized for 3-5 days under the supervision of doctor until you recover from it.
    6. There will be more pain as compared normal deliver. Pain killer are given but more time is required to fully recover from this pain
    7. There is problem in passing bowel movements
    8.  Passing urine will also become difficult and painful. There is burning sensation when you pass the urine.
    9. It will be difficult to give vaginal birth in the future. You will be needed to go for caesarean in the future as well.
    10. You may start to suffer from constipation as well.
    11. Anesthesia, whether it is general or spinal both have consequences. In spinal you will have pain in the back for longer period of time. And in general you need more time to gain senses back and see your baby.
    12. It becomes difficult to feed baby when you have surgery. You need help of family or your partner to take care of you and baby.
    13. Healing procedure is slow and it will take longer time to heal the wound as three layers of skin have been cut.

    Conclusion

    We may conclude that although caesarean have many risks and consequences but still it is a successful procedure to give birth to baby in healthy manner for safety of mother and baby. It is important to go for regular checkups and scans that will help you to better understand the health and condition of baby. 

  • Breast feed- Essential benefits for Mother And Baby

    Introduction

    Breast feeding is the first complete diet for new born.  It is advised to provide the child with mother feed within one hour after his birth. It is important for the survival of newborn as it provides best antibodies to fight against any infection. And it also has high portion of energy.

    breast Feed

    First milk that is produced right after the birth is rich in water and antibodies and has fewer amounts of fats. Water content in this milk helps to increase apatite of newborn and developing immunity. Later on fat portion increases and water portion in milk decreases that gives satisfaction to apatite of newborn. Every time mother breast feeds the child, the quantity of fat change as required by the baby.

    Nutritional value of breast milk

    First diet of new born is breast milk. So it is very rich in nutrition as it will provide the foundation for the development and growth of baby. It also helps in developing immunity to cope with infections and germs. Main component of human breast milk is water. There is about 87-88% water as major component. It also had carbs, proteins and fats as its component.  Complete nutritional value of 1 cup breast milk is as follows

    Energy171 calories
    Fat11g
    Cholesterol34.4mg
    Sodium41.8mg
    Potassium125.5mg
    Sugar17g
    Protein2.5g
    Vitamin C20%
    Calcium7%
    Vitamin D1 %
    Cobalamin1%
    Magnesium1%

     It is clear from above table that breast milk is a complete diet for new born. It provides all the major nutrition which is required for the growth, development and immunity for a baby.

    Breast feeding benefits for Mother

    Breast feeding is not only beneficial for child but it is also beneficial for mother.

    1. There are fewer chances of breast cancer and ovarian cancer if mother is breast feeding the baby as compared to a mother who is not nursing her child.
    2. It is helpful in weight management as well. When mother breast feeds the child it is also helpful to lose extra weight which she gained during pregnancy. If a new mother wants to gain her figure as it was before pregnancy then it is important to breast feed your child.
    3. It also Decreases the chances of diabetes.
    4. When mother feeds her child she develops stronger bond with child. She feels more love and affection for the child. And child also gets attached with mother.
    5. Mother gets psychological satisfaction as well by providing feed to her child. It provides mental satisfaction that her child is full and will be healthy.
    6. In normal vaginal birth there is post-partum hemorrhage which is loss of blood due to deliver.  The amount of this blood can be reduced if mother starts to feed her child.

    Breast feeding benefits for new born

    Breast milk is very beneficial for child as well. It helps to develop immune system of baby. It is observed that there is lower rate of infection in babies who are taking mother feed as compared to those who are nor taking mother feed. They are better in health.

    Breast milk has water, carbs, minerals, fats and vitamins which are needed for growth of baby. This is easily digestible for babies as it is according to their bodily needs. It is also worthy to note that composition of milk changes with the need of baby.

    Best Positions for breast feeding

    While discussing the importance of breast feeding it is also important to mention the position of feeding.  Always make yourself comfortable while feeding your child. Comfort of mother and child is important factor. It depends in which position you feel more comfortable but here are some positions which are comfortable as well easy to manage.

    1.     Cradle hold for Breast feeding

    This position is considered to be most comfortable position for baby and mother. In this position simply take your baby in your lap along the length of your arm. Put his arm under your arm and place nipple in baby’s mouth. Make sure that you are sitting comfortably. 

    This position is difficult for a mother who is having caesarean.  Because baby will touch scar of cut and will hurt the mother. So it is suggested that a caesarean mother don’t try this position in early days.

    2.     Laid back

    This position is comfortable for mother. In this position mother lays back comfortably on sofa or bed. she does not lay back straight but lean with help of cushion or pillow support. Then takes the baby on her tummy and fed him from opposite breast. This position is good for mother who is having C- section as baby will not touch her scar.

    3.     Lying on your side

    This is a good position for mother who is having caesarean or normal deliver. This position is also helpful when you are sleeping during night.

    In this position mother lays side wise with baby facing her. Make it sure that baby is not twisted. His ear arm and hip must be aligned. Use support of your hand to hold baby and guide him towards the nipple

    4.     Rugby hold

    This position is best for caesarean mother as in this position baby will not touch her scar area.

    In this position mother sits comfortably and places a cushion on her side from where she wants to feed the child. Place the baby’s head on pillow and feed him from opposite side. It is helpful for twin babies too as they can feed together side by side.

    Diet for Nursing Mother

    It is very important to keep your diet healthy to cope with needs of yours as well as baby needs.  While breast feeding,  most of mother feels thirsty or hungry so keep something like shake or milk with yourself when you feed baby and drink it when you feel thirsty. Try to drink more water and also include milk and healthy shakes in your diet. They will help you to increase production of milk.

    Include good amount of protein, vegetables, whole grains and fruits in your diet. They will provide you with essential nutrition as well. Try to avoid processed food while nursing your baby. It is not nutritious and good for baby.

    Alcohol is not absorbed in milk but in the blood. If you take alcohol then wait until you feel sober then you may feed the child.  But Caffeine passes into the milk. So if you will take it will be transferred to your baby so try to avoid it. It may affect health of baby.

    Natural Remedies to increase breast milk

    Some mothers do not have enough milk to fulfill the need of baby. There are some natural remedies that help to increase production of milk inside breasts.

    Fenugreek
    cumin
    fennel
    1. Cumin is a natural remedy used to increase production of milk. One can simply eat it with water or sprinkle it on meal and eat it. It has good taste and also helps in production of milk.
    2. Fenugreek water is also helpful in this regard. Soak it in water for night and then drink this water in the morning. It will help to increase production of milk.
    3. Fennel tea is good remedy for mother to take while breast feeding the child. It just not only helps in production of milk but it also help to cure gastric and colic problems of babies.
    4. Taking good amount of milk and meat in die4t is also helpful.

    Duration and Frequency of breast feeding

    Mother should feed the child for 15 -20 minutes every time. New born baby are needed to be fed after every two hours. Mother should only give her breast milk for first 6 months. Do not give anything other than milk to babies until they are 6 months old. After that soft diet can be added to their diet with milk. A Mother must feed the child for at least 2 years.

    Myths regarding breast feeding

    1. Many people consider milk of first three days is poisonous for child growth and do not give it to baby. It is wrong concept. Mother must feed baby within 1 hour of his birth because it is first vaccination injection for baby that will help them to develop immunity.
    2. In most of population people give honey or gutti to the newborn. It is very dangerous for new born.

    People consider powder or packed milk is healthier then breast milk so they prefer it. But the best feed for newborn is mother milk

  • Nutritional Value of Plum- 3 Ways to Dry Plum

    Nutritional Value of Plum- 3 Ways to Dry Plum

    Introduction

    Plum is usually pink, purple or yellow colored nutritious fruit. Trees of  this fruit are planted in cold area. The harvesting season of plum is summer. Although it is summer fruit but it can be stored in dry form to use throughout the year.

    Nutritional Value of Plum

     They are rich source of energy. It contains protein, carbohydrate, fats and fibers. It is also source of vitamin C and minerals i.e. potassium, iron and magnesium. Following table shows complete picture of 100g of plums nutritional value.

    Energy 46 calories
    Fat 0.3g
    Potassium 157 mg
    Carbohydrates 11g
    Fiber 1.4g
    Protein 0.7g
    Vitamin C 15%
    Iron 1%
    Magnesium 1%
    Nutritional value of plum

    Benefits of Plum

    plum
    1. They contain Fiber content that help in maintaining sugar level in blood. It helps in the production of hormone name adiponectin which helps to lower down the sugar level in blood. It is good to eat it after having carbs. Prunes which is dried form of plum helps in bone’s health and its preservation in body.
    2. They have protein which is helpful in nourishing skin. If 6-7 plums are eaten daily they will nourish the skin and it will start to glow. It also helps in reducing dark spots from skin.
    3. Iron is helpful in development and growth of bones and teeth. It also help production of Red blood cells.
    4. Magnesium is helpful in muscle and regulating nerve function. It is also used in the production of protein, bones and DNA.
    5. Potassium helps in transmitting message in neurons and it also helps in regulating fluid levels in cell.
    6. As it also contains protein which is important to perform many function including hormones, enzymes and antibodies production.
    7. They contain healthy fat which is in saturated form and will provide a good source of stored energy within cell.

    3 Methods to preserve Plums

    prunes

    It is summer fruit and is available in markets for 2 months. As it is very healthy fruit so it can be stored in dried form to take advantage from it.

    Here we are going to discuss three best ways to store it in dry form, which is known as prunes.

    1. Boiling in Sugar Water

    Wash plums in water. Add some sugar in boiling water. Then add plums in sugar water and boil for 1-2 minutes on medium heat. Take out plums from water and you will observe that their skin gets removed from sides.

    Now put them in sieve for 1-2 hours to remove excessive water. After that press them with your hand to get rid of remaining water. Now put them on clean cloth separately so that they do not touch each other under direct sun heat. After 3-4 days they will dry.

    2. Dehydration in Oven or Dehydrator

    Another method to dry them is to use oven or dehydrator. In this method simply wash plums and then set the temperature 140-145 degree. Place them in dry try and put them in oven or dehydrator for 6-8 hours. This is a quick method then the previous one.

    Take out the try carefully and check if they are completely dry. If they have some moisture then you may put them back for 1-2 hour.

    3. Pressing with Hand

    This is easiest method to dry plums but you need fully ripened fruit to use this method as it will be soft. Simply take plum in your hand and press it so that it gets smooth and some water gets out of it.

    Now put them on some cloth or basket under the direct sunlight. It will take 4-5 sunny days to completely dry them.

    Storage

    Whichever methods you use make it sure that they are completely dry. If they have very small amount of moisture they will be attacked by fungus and will be rotten. So make it sure that they are completely dried up. After drying them store them in air tight jars. Do not touch them with wet hands once they are dried up.

  • Needle Stick Injury- 4 Hazards by Needle Stick

    Needle Stick Injury- 4 Hazards by Needle Stick

    Definition of needle stick injury

    Needle Stick

    Needle stick injuries refer to wounds caused by accidental puncture of needle into the skin. It is just a sudden prick into skin. And it is not much painful but it is dangerous to health. Skin plays important role to protect the internal vital organs from invasion if micro-organisms like bacteria, viruses and other harmful microbes. But when needle puncture the skin it gives way to these microscopic germs to enter into body. Proper care is very important to stop infections caused by needle.

    Higher Risk of Infection

    It is interesting to note here that who is at higher risk of getting needle stick injury?

    The answer is all those people who are working with needle equipment are at risk of this type of injury. Here is a list of people who are at higher risk of getting injury.

    1. Agricultural workers

    2. Food preparers

    3. Tattoo artists

    4. Laborers

    5. Law enforcement workers

    6. Tailors

    8. Nurses

    7. Medical lab workers

    As these people are constantly exposed to needle and needle like instruments so they are more likely to get injury while doing their daily routine work.

    Hazards Caused by Needle Stick Injury

    People don’t take needle stick injury seriously as it does not hurt as other injuries do. But it is very important to take proper care of these injuries as well because they can cause many health hazards. Primarily skin protects the body and microscopic germs cannot enter into the body because of skin but when needle punctures the skin it open the entry for these microbes.

    There are more chances that needle may be infectious as well. If needle pricks a person who is having a health condition is pricked by another healthy person then it can cause same health condition in second person as well.

    Following is the list of diseases which are caused by the needle stick.

    AIDS (Acquired immune Deficiency Syndrome)

    AIDS is incurable disease caused by the HIV virus. In this disease HIV virus enters into the body and attacks white blood cells. White blood cells are the defense system of body. When they are attacked by virus immunity of body fails to fight with any infection. As a result body gets sunder attack of many infections which includes many severe infections such as cancer and TB.

    AIDS is caused by transfer of body fluid of infected person to non- infected person. When a needle enters to an infected person it gets infection. And if a healthy person uses same needle and it accidently make way to body it will also infect him.

    Hepatitis B

    Among all the viruses which are more easily acquired by the needle stick is virus of hepatitis. 30-50%people who are suffering from hepatitis B get this infection through the prick of needle.

    Nowadays vaccination of virus is available. If person is vaccinated for hepatitis B then there is less chance of getting severe infection even if needle stick injury occurs.

    Hepatitis C

    Hepatitis C is inflammatory disease of liver and it is caused by hepatitis c virus. It effects  the liver. It has short as well as long term effects. In long term it causes cancer of lever.

    Hepatitis is also transferred from one person to another if a person gets  in touch with infected needle stick But there are less chances of getting this virus into body by needle stick  as compared to above 2 viruses.

    Herpes

    Herpes is rarely caused by needle stick but there are still chances of getting infection.  In this disease blister and ulcers appears on infected are. It is viral transmitted disease. If needle get in touch with these blisters and ulcers then it may cause herpes.

    Precautionary Measures

    Whenever you get a needle stick injury it is very important to take following precautionary measures to avoid infection.

    1. As soon as you get needle stick injury go to tab and keep your wound under running water for some time.
    2. Wash the wound properly with soap and water. It will help to remove germs from the wound.
    3. Do not scrub the wound harshly. Rinse in with water softly.
    4. Most of the people start to suck the blood as soon as they get injury from needle stick. This is very harmful practice. As soon as you start to suck the injury virus will enter into your body more easily and can cause infection. So always try to avoid sucking after getting needle stick injury.
    5. After washing it dry your wound and cover it with waterproof plaster. Waterproof plaster will help to keep the wound safe from water. As water is a good medium for virus movement.
    6. After this above treatment it is suggested to go to doctor or clinic. They will wash your wound more properly with medicines and it will decrease the chance of getting any infection.
  • Causes of Facial Hair in Women-6 Methods to Remove Facial Hair

    Causes of Facial Hair in Women-6 Methods to Remove Facial Hair

    Introduction to Facial Hair in Women

    One of the most common problem women are experiencing nowadays is unwanted facial hairs. Although there are hair on face but these hair becomes thick and more visible.  Mostly they start to appear in chin areas like beard in men. It affects overall appearance of women and have social stigma. Here we are going to discuss some of its causes and safe ways to remove them.

    Causes of Facial Hair in Women

    There are many reasons which cause facial hair to grow in women and become thick and visible. Here we are going to provide you details of this cause among women.

    Facial hair in women

    Hormonal Imbalance And Facial Hair in Women

    There are many reasons for facial hair growth one of them is imbalance in hormones production.

    Polycystic Ovary Syndrome

    In women a condition arise called polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).  During this disorder women have irregular menstrual cycle. They develop fluid filled sacs around the ovary. These sacs stop the release of egg and don’t let the ovary to mature eggs. So they miss their regular menstrual cycle. It also causes to release of male hormone named androgen. This hormone is responsible for growth of hair in men. When the level of this hormone increases in women they also start to grow facial hair like men. This condition mostly arises when girls have their first periods.

    Menopause

    Another condition known as menopause may also cause facial hair in women to grow. When menstrual cycle stops in women after 45-50 years of age may also lead to growth of hair on face. During menopause circulation of estrogen which is responsible for secondary growth in women also stops. As estrogen circulation stops the level of testosterone increases in blood. Testosterone is responsible for secondary growth in men. Due to increase level of this hormone may result in facial hair in women.

    Thyroid Function

    Thyroid gland, a small but mighty gland situated in the neck has many regulating functions such as growth of hairs. When it is hyperactive, a condition known as hyperthyroidism arises and  the production of androgen hormone increase which results in facial hair in women.

    Genetics

    Genetics is also important while mentioning the causes of facial hair in women. Genes have the plan according to which a person is going to grow in life. So genes have very powerful and impacting role for person’s overall look. If ancestors are having facial hair then there is more chance that these affected genes will be transferred to children and they will also experience facial hair.

    Medications

    There are a few treatment and medicines which have negative effects on body. These effects may include facial hair in women as negative effect.  Steroids which are used to develop muscles can increase male hormones in female which will lead to abnormal facial hair in women.

    It is important to mention here that nowadays boiler chickens are also causing facial hair growth and imbalance in hormones production. To increase the size of boiler chicken and them grow within 40 days, they are injected with steroids. When these chickens are eaten they cause imbalance in hormones production causing facial hair in women.

    Facial Hair Removal Methods

     Temporary Solutions

    1.     Shaving

    This is easy and painless method to remove unwanted hairs. In this method razor is used to remove facial hair in women. It simply cut the hairs from base with help of sharp blade. But it will temporary remove the hairs. After 3-4 days hairs will grow back and their thickness will also increase. One should avoid this method as it will cause thickness of hairs.

    2.     Threading

    threading to remove facial hair

    Threading is very common method among women to remove unwanted hairs from face. It is painful and temporary as well.  It is better option than shaving as hair will take 15-20 days to grow back. With the use of threads hairs are pluck from the roots. Hair will not get thick by this method but it takes more time than shaving.

    3.     Waxing

    waaxing

    Waxing is a popular yet painful method of removing hairs. It is also temporary method for hair removal. In this method wax is used to remove hairs from unwanted areas. It also plucks hair from the root so 15-20 days are required for hairs to grow back. It takes less time than threading but it is a painful way of removing hairs.

    4.     Hair Removal Cream

    It is easiest method among hair removal methods as it is neither painful nor time consuming. In this method you just simply apply hair removing cream on the area and after 5-10 minutes you to remove it. And hairs strands gets weak and easily removed from skin.  But its lasting is not long. It may take 5-8 days and hairs will grow back. It is precautionary to apply cream on smaller area before applying to face or sensitive areas to check whether you are having allergic effects or not.

    Permanent Solution

    1.     Laser

    This is a medical procedure to remove unwanted facial hairs in women from face and other parts. In this method concentrated beam of light is used to remove unwanted hairs. In this procedure light beam is absorbed by the hairs and it damages hair follicles and when they are damaged hair will not grow again for some time.  

    To remove these hairs for longer time it is necessary to take proper sessions after suggested time to remove them permanently. It is effected for all hair types. As it is medical procedure sensitivity of skin to laser beam must be check.

    2.     Electrolysis

    This is a medical procedure and performed by the trained dermatologist or technician. This method is performed with special electrolysis device. This is inserted into center of hair root and it damages the hair root permanently. So the hair gets weaker and fells down and will not grow back in this way. This is painless method.

    Home Remedies

    Home remedies are also important in this regard. For example turmeric paste and gram flour are used to remove unwanted hairs from face for some time. Although these remedies are not much effective and have limited effects but are easy to use.

    Conclusion

    In short we can say that facial hairs have psychological as well as physiological effects.  They have stronger impact on the overall personality and self-esteem of a woman. There are methods to get rid of these unwanted hairs from face. By using them one can get her confidence back and get stronger emotionally as well.

  • 7 Reasons of Weight Gain During Pregnancy

    7 Reasons of Weight Gain During Pregnancy

    Weight gain during pregnancy is very normal as body undergoes many changes to support development of fetus. During pregnancy woman need more nutrition and energy to meet the needs of fetus as well as to fulfill her own bodily needs.

    Mainly woman gains weight during pregnancy because now she is not only carrying her own weight but she has the weight of fetus, placenta and amniotic fluids. These three elements also constitutes in the weight gain process of woman. In most cases mother gain most of her weight during third trimester which are last three months of pregnancy because during these months fetus increases weight and becomes a complete baby.

    Causes of weight Gain

    Weight gain during pregnancy

    As soon as woman gets pregnant there are many changes which start to occur inside the body of woman. In this regard weight gain during pregnancy is very normal. One should not worry about its gain. But if sudden abrupt weight gain occurs then it is advised to go for checkup. Normally weight gain occurs due to following reasons

    1.     Fetus

    As soon- as woman gets pregnant her body starts to experience many changes. When egg gets fertilized it turns into an embryo. Embryo undergoes many changes to develop into a baby. Before baby is born it is completely grown up inside the body of mother. It means that in the beginning it was fetus with less mass but before birth it will gain weight. This also contributes to weight gain during pregnancy of mother. Average weight of fetus is around 7-8 pounds.

    2.     Placenta

     Another main reason of weight gain during pregnancy is weight of placenta. Placenta is a bridge which is form between mother and fetus. Primary function of this placenta is transportation. It transports materials between mother and fetus.

    Fetus takes blood, water, nutrition, and other important materials which are needed for the healthy development of fetus. In return baby excretes deoxygenated blood. Uric acid and other used up materials back to mother through placenta. So this means placenta also has some weight which will be included in mother’s weight.  Average Weight of placenta is 1.5 pounds.

    3.     Amniotic fluid

    Third reason of weight gain during pregnancy of woman is weight of amniotic fluid. Amniotic fluid is transparent or yellowish liquids that is present around the fetus. Fetus freely moves inside this fluid as this fluid is in constant motion. This provide cushion against sudden movement or blow.

    Fetus inhale and exhale this fluid while moving in this sac. This fluid is rich in nutrition as well. It does not only provide protection but also nutrition and support to the cord and fetus. Average weight of amniotic fluid is 2 Pounds. It is also common reason of weight gain during pregnancy.

    4.     Larger size of uterus

    During pregnancy one more change that occurs in the body of mother is size of uterus. To deliver baby safely size of the uterus also increases. Almost 2 pounds are included in total weight of pregnant woman cause of this change in size of uterus. so it also contributes to overall weight gain during pregnancy.

    5.     Larger in breast size

    One of the common sign of pregnancy is change in size of breast. At the start of pregnancy size of breasts starts to change. The main reason of this change is that body is getting ready to provide breastfeed to newborn baby after birth. So more tissues and hormones start to work in this area and this contributes to increase in weight of mother.  It is estimated that 1-3 pounds area added to the weight of pregnant woman.

    6.     Increases blood flow

    When a woman is pregnant volume of blood in the body also increases. Because now the blood will circulates in the mother as well as in the fetus. So overall volume of blood will increase to meet need of mother and developing fetus. Average increase of weight due to increases volume of blood is 3-4 pounds.

    7.     Store Fat

    To meet needs of body during and after pregnancy body starts to store fats. This stored fat also constitutes to overall increase of weight. Average weight of this store fat is around 6-8 pounds.

    Here is a table that will provide you with overview of weight gain due to above mentioned reasons.

    No.NameWeight in PoundsWeight in Kg
    1.Fetus7-83-3.6
    2.Placenta1.50.7
    3.Amniotic Fluid20.9
    4.Breast size1-30.5-1.4
    5.Increase blood flow3-41.4-1.8
    6.Store fat6-82.7-3.6
    7.Blood volume3-41.4-1.8

    Average Weight gain During Pregnancy

    It is not hard and stick rule that how much weight gain during pregnancy is healthy. Weight gain varies from person to person as every person is different from another and size of fetus also varies among women. Here is a rough estimate to provide you guideline on how much weight gain during pregnancy is healthy.

    Pre pregnancy weightRecommended weight gain (lbs)Recommended weight gain (kg)
    Underweight (BMI below 18.5)28 to 40 about 13 to 18 kg
    Healthy weight (BMI 18.5 to 24.9)25 to 35about 11 to 16 kg)
    Overweight (BMI 25 to 29.9)15 to 257 to 11 kg)
    Obese (BMI 30 or more)11 to 20about 5 to 9 kg

    Weight Gain in Trimesters

    Mother carries fetus for 9 months or 40 weeks in her womb. During this time period embryo converts into a complete baby. To learn changes which occur during this time period we divide these 9 months into 3 trimesters. This division is just for our better understanding of development of fetus.

    1.     Weight in in 1st trimester

    1st trimester is consists on 1st three months of pregnancy.  This includes starting 13 weeks of pregnancy.  There is not much weight gain occur during this time period because fetus  develops vital organs during first trimester. There is very little change in weight of mother in this trimester. There may be no weight gain or mother may have 1-1.5 pounds increase in her weight.

    2.     Weight gain in 2nd Trimester

    Second trimester consists on  4th month till 6th month. In other words it starts from week 14 and ends at week 26 or 27. During this time period weight gain occurs as now fetus is developing and more organs and bones are growing.  Average weight gain during this trimester is about 1-1.5 pounds per week. At the end of third trimester there is about 12-14 pounds of weight gain.

    3.     Weight Gain in 3rd Trimester

    Last of third trimester is more important in respect of weight gain during pregnancy. Most of the weight gain occurs during this time period as baby increases in size. Last three month or from month 7-9 are included in this trimester. It starts from week 27 and ends till birth of baby or week 40. 25-25 pounds weight gain occur during last trimester

    Weight management and pregnancy

    It’s essential to control your weight throughout pregnancy as in case you gain extra weight throughout this time period it will be tough to lose it after pregnancy and could create fitness troubles.

    In this regard balance diet is very helpful. She must take healthy and rich nutritional food. Processed food is not good as it will increase the mass of the body without giving enough nutrition.

    She must take proper guideline from her nutritionist to meet calories intake. It is crucial to properly check weigh gain during pregnancy and calories intake on weekly basis to maintain a healthy pregnancy.

    Exercise also helps in managing weight. Do not go for heavy exercise but for simpler exercises like walking, swimming or yoga. They will keep you healthy and will helpful for baby as well. They also help in maintaining weight gain during pregnancy.

  • Iodine- Essential For Health

    What is Iodine

    There are numerous minerals which body needs to work well. One among them is iodine. Human body does not require iodine in high quantity but as trace. So we can say that iodine is a trace element. Iodine performs important function inside thyroid gland.

    This gland is situated inside the neck and has butterfly like shape. Thyroid gland takes command from pituitary gland. It secretes two hormones referred to as thyroxine T4 and triiodothyroine (T3). These hormones have very energetic function in temperature regulation, blood pressure, heart rate, metabolism and have function in growth of skin, hair and nails.

    As described earlier that iodine is not produced inside the body so it is natural to take it from other sources to fulfill the needs of body. When it is taken in the food it is absorbed by the blood while passing through the digestive track. Then this taken iodine is delivered to thyroid gland from the blood. Inside thyroid gland it is used up by the gland to make hormones.

    Iodine Rich Foods

    To meet every day need of iodine it is important to take iodine rich foods. It is present in seaweed, fish, shrimp, milk, yogurt, eggs, cheese and iodized salt. Here is detail picture of foods and amount of iodine present in them.

    Seaweed (kelp2,984 mcg
    3 once fish99mcg
    Tuna17 mcg
    Milk56 mcg
    yogurt75 mcg
    Egg yolk24 mcg
    Iodized salt400mcg

    Iodized salt

    iodine

    Iodized salt is a realistic and effective way to prevent iodine deficiency. It consists of normal table salt along with a small amount of iodine, generally sprayed in the form of potassium iodide or iodate. This fortification ensures that people who devour salt regularly must additionally get sufficient amount of iodine.

    The exercising of iodizing salt emerge in areas particularly in regions in which iodine deficiency become unusual because of low iodine content in soil and water. Maximum commercially available salt is iodized, however it’s very essential to test labels, as some times salts (sea salt or kosher salt) might not be iodized. Using iodized salt is a smooth and powerful manner to help make certain that the population receives sufficient iodine.

    Daily Intake of iodine

    There are some recommendations to meet every day needs of body to maintain sufficient level of iodine. Those recommendations range mainly relying on age, gender, and physiological conditions:

    Here is complete picture of how much body needs iodine daily basis.

    Infants110-130 mcg
    Children90-120 mcg
    Adults150 mcg
    Pregnant woman220mcg
    Breastfeeding mother290mcg

    This is approximate quantity which a body needs but these values may vary according to age, gender and health conditions. It is necessary to take advice from nutritionist if any unusual changes occur within body. As shown above that a pregnant woman needs more iodine because fetus also requires some quantity of it. During breastfeeding its intake must be increased cause infants needs more of it.                                       

    Iodine Deficiency

    Iodine is essential mineral required by the body. Its deficiency has diverse effect over human’s health. Unfortunately 1/3rd of the world population is at risk of being deficient of iodine.

    Reasons/ causes of Iodine Deficiency

    Although it is not necessary that everyone is at iodine deficiency but we can underline some people who are at more risk of its deficiency.

    Ø Pregnant women

    Pregnant woman are at higher risk and exposed to its deficiency because fetus needs iodine for proper growth. So he takes it from bloodstream of mother. There are more chances of getting its deficiency if they don’t include proper amount into their diet.

    Ø Nursing women

    A woman who is breastfeeding a child is more exposed to its deficiency because infants needs more amount of iodine as compared to children. They take iodine from mother while getting feed in the form of milk. It can cause iodine deficiency in mother as well.

    Ø Iodine deficient soil

    There are some countries which have very less amount of iodine in the salt. These folks are more exposed to its deficiency if they don’t include it in their diet. These countries are Southeast Asia, south Asia, European countries and New Zealand.

    Ø Vegetarian

    People who prefer to eat vegetable are at more risk of getting deficient in iodine. Seafood and meat are sources of iodine. When they don’t use them in their meal they are at more risk as compared to non- veg. they can overcome this risk by taking iodine in their diet from other sources i.e. iodized salt and some vegetables.

    Ø Iodized salt is not used

    Sometimes people prefer to use non iodized salt. Iodized salt is best way to avoid its deficiency.  But at times people prefer to take non iodized salt. It will affect overall health of a person.