World Antimicrobial Awareness Week is more than just a phrase; it’s a global initiative that affects you and your ability to fight infections. Every November, this special week sheds light on antimicrobial resistance (AMR), teaching us how important our actions are in facing this global health challenge. It is a reminder for you to make smart choices that make the world safer and healthier. Let’s explore more why this week matters, what antimicrobial resistance is, and how we can all work together for a healthier future.

Why World Antimicrobial Awareness Week Matters to You

Antimicrobial resistance is like a silent enemy that’s getting stronger against the medicines we use to fight infections. This includes antibiotics, antivirals, antifungals, and more. World Antimicrobial Awareness Week is an annual reminder that what you do today affects how well these medicines work in the future. 

In fact, it becomes more important to make expectant mothers aware of the judicious use of antibiotics, ensuring effective treatment while safeguarding the health of both themselves and their unborn child. That’s what we, the best gynaecologists in Mohali and Chandigarh, take the help of antibiotics only when needed to make pregnancies healthy and safe in all ways.

So, this awareness week is a call to action for you, healthcare professionals, policymakers, and communities to stand together against the growing threat of AMR.

The ABCs of Antimicrobial Resistance: What You Need to Know

A. Understanding Antimicrobial Resistance

AMR happens when tiny living things—bacteria, viruses, fungi, and parasites—change and become able to survive the drugs meant to kill them. This makes regular treatments not work well, leading to longer illnesses, higher healthcare costs, and, in severe cases, loss of life.

B. Factors Fueling Resistance

Overuse and Misuse: Using antimicrobial drugs in the wrong way is a big reason for AMR. Taking antibiotics without a prescription, not finishing the full course, or using leftover medications all make the problem worse.

Inadequate Hygiene: Not keeping things clean leads to more infections, which means more demand for antibiotics.

Use in Agriculture: Giving antibiotics to animals we use for food can leave traces in the food we eat, adding to the resistance problem.

The Role of World Antimicrobial Awareness Week in Your Life

A. Global Collaboration

This week brings the whole world together. Countries, organisations, and communities share knowledge and best practices to fight antimicrobial resistance.

B. Education and Awareness

World Antimicrobial Awareness Week is a time to learn and spread awareness. It teaches you about using antibiotics the right way, the consequences of resistance, and why keeping things clean helps prevent infections.

C. Policy Advocacy

Leaders use this week to talk about policies that support using antibiotics responsibly, controlling antibiotic use in farming, and investing in new medicines.

What Can You Do? Your Action Plan

A. Use Antibiotics Wisely

Prescription Power: Only take antibiotics if a qualified healthcare professional prescribes them to you.

Finish the Course: Even if you feel better, finish all the medicine. This makes sure all the harmful things are gone.

B. Practice Good Hygiene

Handwashing Habits: Wash your hands regularly to stop infections.

Sanitation Standards: Keep your surroundings clean to lower the risk of infections.

C. Spread the Word

Social Media Advocacy: Use your social media to tell others about using antibiotics wisely. Share helpful posts and stories.

Community Engagement: Chat with your friends, family, and neighbours about why it’s crucial to use antibiotics the right way. Share what you know so everyone can be aware and use medicine responsibly. Your conversations can help everyone in the community stay healthy.

Global Impact of Antimicrobial Resistance on You

A. Healthcare Ramifications

AMR affects more than just individual health. It makes hospital stays longer, healthcare is more expensive, and medical procedures riskier.

B. Economic Implications

AMR doesn’t just impact health; it affects economies too. Treating resistant infections costs a lot, and sick people can’t work as well, straining healthcare systems and national economies.

Looking Ahead: The Future Landscape for You

The future is a mix of challenges and hope. Researchers are working hard to find new medicines and treatments. But it’s also up to you to use the medicines we have now in the right way.

Empowering Your Future: Education and Research

A. School Programs: Learning from the Start

Making It a Part of Curriculum: Imagine learning about antimicrobial resistance from a young age. Schools can teach you about it in biology, health, or general science classes.

Creating Lifelong Habits: When you understand how important it is to use antibiotics right, it becomes a habit for life. You become someone who knows and shares this knowledge.

Interactive Learning: Learning about AMR can be fun. Schools can use examples and activities to make it interesting and easy to understand.

Involving Communities: Schools can bring parents and communities into the learning. Workshops and sessions can help everyone understand why using antibiotics wisely matters.

B. Research and Innovation: Building the Future Together

Crucial Need for Investment: Research needs support. Governments, organizations, and private companies must invest in finding new ways to stay ahead of harmful microbes.

Collaboration as the Catalyst: AMR is complex, so everyone must work together. Governments, researchers, and companies can join forces to share ideas and speed up discoveries.

Nurturing Emerging Talent: New ideas come from new minds. Supporting young scientists and researchers with scholarships and mentorship helps them explore solutions.

Holistic Approach to Innovation: Innovation is not just about new medicines. It’s also about better tools to identify infections and smarter strategies to treat them. We need a holistic approach for a strong response to AMR.

Seeking Help For Anti-Microbial Resistance During Pregnancy: The Best IVF Centre in Chandigarh and Mohali

Antimicrobial resistance during pregnancy raises concerns as infections become harder to treat. It emphasizes the need for cautious antibiotic use to safeguard both maternal health and the well-being of the developing fetus. We are one of the best pregnancy and IVF centres in Mohali and Chandigarh, helping countless mothers handle all such challenges for healthy motherhood. Book your appointment today!

Endometriosis is a complex medical condition that affects many women worldwide, bringing challenges not just to their physical health but also to their dreams of starting a family. In this exploration, we’ll dive into the connection between endometriosis and fertility, uncovering the hurdles, possible treatments, and holistic approaches for you on the fertility journey. 

What is Endometriosis?

To grasp how endometriosis affects fertility, let’s first understand what it is. Endometriosis happens when tissue similar to the uterus lining grows outside the uterus. This abnormal growth can lead to the formation of lesions, adhesions, and scar tissue in various reproductive organs like the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and pelvic lining.

The Impact on Fertility

The link between endometriosis and fertility is intricate and varied. For many dealing with endometriosis, getting pregnant can be tricky due to a few reasons. The endometrial tissue outside the uterus can disrupt the normal functioning of reproductive organs, creating challenges for ovulation, fertilisation, and implantation.

Factors associated with endometriosis affecting fertility include:

Ovulatory Dysfunction: Endometriosis can disrupt regular ovulation, making it challenging for eggs to be released and fertilised.

Fallopian Tube Obstruction: Growth of endometrial tissue may block or damage the fallopian tubes, making it hard for eggs to travel from the ovaries to the uterus.

Inflammation and Immune Response: Inflammation linked to endometriosis can trigger an immune response, negatively impacting fertility and the implantation of a fertilised egg.

Impact on Egg Quality: Endometriosis has been associated with a potential decrease in egg quality, affecting the overall success of conception.

You can know the effects of endometriosis on fertility more in detail, by consulting the best maternity doctors in Mohali at our centre. 

Facing Challenges in Getting Pregnant

When dealing with endometriosis, the road to having a baby comes with various and connected challenges. The unusual tissue growth can create adhesions, sticking reproductive organs together. This leads to structural issues affecting the normal functions of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus.

On top of that, the pain and discomfort from endometriosis can bring about problems in intimacy and add psychological stress, making the fertility journey more complex. Dealing with these factors emphasises the importance of a personalised and all-encompassing approach to fertility treatment for you with endometriosis.

Exploring Ways to Help

Assisted reproductive technologies (ART), like in vitro fertilisation (IVF), have proven successful in helping you with endometriosis become parents. IVF includes taking eggs, fertilising them outside the body, and then placing the embryos into the uterus.

Taking a Holistic Approach to Manage Endometriosis and Fertility

While medical help is essential, looking at the bigger picture and adopting a holistic approach can make a big difference in managing both endometriosis and fertility. Simple lifestyle changes like having a balanced diet with lots of nutrients, regular exercise, and finding ways to handle stress can have a positive impact on fertility.

Building a Strong Foundation for Well-being

Eating a balanced diet is crucial in dealing with the challenges of endometriosis. Foods rich in antioxidants, omega-3 fatty acids, and anti-inflammatory properties can help ease symptoms and improve overall well-being. Fruits and vegetables are great sources of antioxidants that fight inflammation, and omega-3 fatty acids found in fish and flaxseeds have anti-inflammatory benefits, helping with the discomfort of endometriosis.

Empowering both Body and Mind

Regular exercise is a powerful way of dealing with endometriosis. It not only keeps the body healthy but also helps manage stress, which is often linked with endometriosis challenges. Activities like brisk walking, cycling, or swimming at a moderate intensity can positively impact hormonal balance and reproductive health. Exercise also boosts blood circulation, contributing to a healthier reproductive system. Plus, the release of endorphins during exercise acts as a natural stress reliever, supporting emotional well-being.

Building Emotional Strength

Including mind-body practices in your daily routine is a smart way to manage stress and promote emotional well-being during the fertility journey. Techniques like meditation, yoga, and mindfulness offer tools to build resilience and maintain a positive mindset.

Taking Time for Inner Peace

Regular meditation provides a quiet space to calm the mind, reduce anxiety, and enhance emotional resilience. Techniques like mindfulness meditation, guided imagery, or focused breathing are especially helpful in managing the stress associated with endometriosis.

Connecting Mind, Body, and Spirit

Rooted in ancient traditions, yoga emphasises the connection between mind, body, and spirit. Through physical postures, breath control, and meditation, yoga provides a holistic approach to managing stress and promoting overall well-being. Certain yoga poses may even target areas affected by endometriosis, offering both physical and emotional relief.

Mindfulness Techniques

Practising mindfulness in daily life means staying present in the moment and cultivating awareness without judgment. Simple practices like mindful breathing or mindful eating can be woven into daily routines to reduce stress levels and enhance emotional balance.

These mind-body practices empower you to develop coping mechanisms, understand the emotional challenges of infertility, and approach the fertility journey with a positive mindset.

Acupuncture and Traditional Medicine

For some dealing with endometriosis, finding relief through acupuncture—a practice rooted in traditional Chinese medicine—has shown promise. Acupuncture involves thin needles inserted into specific points on the body to promote balance and harmony in the body’s energy flow, known as Qi.

Acupuncture sessions can be personalised to address specific symptoms and challenges linked with endometriosis. Supporters of acupuncture believe it can enhance fertility by improving blood flow to reproductive organs, regulating hormonal imbalances, and reducing inflammation.

Visit the Best Maternity Care Hospital in Chandigarh and Mohali

Your health is essential to us, and we’re here for you at Dr. Sodhi’s Health Care Multispecialty Hospital & IVF Centre every step of the way!  Consult our professionals to get all the help you need in fulfilling your dream of parenthood. We offer around the clock in the outpatient department for regular check-ups and vaccinations for your baby, providing complete care for both moms and newborns. Not only are we a reliable maternity hospital, but we’re also the best IVF centre in Chandigarh. Our skilled fertility experts use safe techniques and equipment to help you on your journey. Book your consultation!

A thorough study of reproductive wellness reveals the many factors crucial for successful conception. Among these factors, the often-neglected health of the fallopian tubes takes on a significant role as guiding passageways for fertilisation to occur. But did you know that the power of yoga can do wonders for the reproductive system? In this blog, we’ll explore the amazing effects of yoga on nurturing the health of these fallopian tubes and improving overall reproductive well-being. But first, let’s dive into more details about them. 

Understanding the Crucial Role of Fallopian Tubes

Conception is a complex process, the fallopian tubes play a central role, guiding the egg from the ovaries to the uterus. Visualise this journey as a step-by-step process, where these delicate tubes gently transport the egg to its destination—the uterus. However, disruptions can occur in this otherwise smooth journey. Blockages, inflammation, or scarring in these fragile tubes can create challenges, affecting fertility. Think of it as facing hurdles on a once straightforward path. These challenges become crucial factors that significantly influence the likelihood of successful conception.

Yoga as a Holistic Lifestyle Practice

Yoga, originating from ancient India, transcends the boundaries of a mere physical exercise routine. It evolves into a holistic lifestyle practice, seamlessly integrating the realms of the mind, body, and spirit. Beyond the confines of the yoga mat, it becomes a way of life that encourages overall well-being, mindfulness, and balance. The inclusion of yoga into daily routines holds great potential to positively influence reproductive health, creating a conducive environment for fertility.

1. Hormonal Balance

 Yoga practices, including specific asanas (postures) and pranayama (breathing exercises), can help regulate hormonal balance. This balance is crucial for regular menstrual cycles and optimal reproductive health.

2. Improved Blood Circulation to Reproductive Organs

The physical postures in yoga promote increased blood flow to the pelvic region, including the ovaries and uterus. This enhanced circulation can create a more conducive environment for conception.

3. Stress Reduction

Yoga is known for its stress-relieving effects. Chronic stress can impact reproductive health by disrupting hormonal balance. Yoga’s emphasis on relaxation and mindfulness helps reduce stress, fostering a positive environment for fertility.

4. Pelvic Floor Strengthening

Certain yoga poses target the pelvic floor muscles, promoting strength and flexibility. A strong pelvic floor is essential for reproductive health, supporting the uterus, bladder, and other pelvic organs.

5. Support for Menstrual Health

Yoga practices can contribute to regular menstrual cycles. Certain poses and breathing techniques help address issues like irregular periods and menstrual discomfort, creating a foundation for reproductive well-being.

6. Boosted Immune Function

A strong immune system is crucial for reproductive health. Yoga’s stress-reducing effects and promotion of overall wellness contribute to a robust immune system, creating a favourable environment for conception.

7. Enhanced Digestive Health

Certain yoga poses and practices promote digestive health, which is linked to reproductive well-being. A healthy digestive system ensures efficient nutrient absorption, benefiting overall body function.

8. Balanced Energy Flow (Prana)

In yogic philosophy, the concept of prana refers to vital life force energy. Yoga practices aim to balance and harmonise prana, promoting overall vitality and well-being, including reproductive vitality.

9. Improved Sleep Quality

Adequate and restful sleep is essential for reproductive health. Yoga’s relaxation techniques can contribute to improved sleep quality, supporting the body’s natural rhythms and hormonal balance.

10. Enhanced Emotional Well-being

The mind-body connection in yoga emphasises emotional well-being. Managing emotions and reducing anxiety through yoga may positively impact fertility by creating a supportive mental state.

Tip: Mindfulness techniques, combined with visualisation practices, can help women develop a positive mindset toward fertility. This mental preparation can contribute to a more relaxed and receptive state for conception. In addition to this, you can go for regular consultations at a good maternity care hospital. You can book a consultation with the best gynaecologists in Mohali and Chandigarh at our IVF centre. 

Exploring Yoga Poses for Enhanced Tubal Health

Specific poses in yoga are dedicated to enhancing tubal health. These poses delicately blend gentle stretches and movements, stimulating blood circulation, alleviating inflammation, and fostering an environment conducive to a healthy reproductive system. Key poses include:

Supta Baddha Konasana (Reclining Bound Angle Pose):

• Enhances blood flow to the pelvic area.
• Induces relaxation in the abdomen, alleviating tension.

Setu Bandhasana (Bridge Pose):

• Strengthens pelvic muscles, fortifying the reproductive framework.
• Promotes flexibility in the spine, a crucial element for reproductive vitality.

Bharadvajasana (Seated Twist):

• Augments spinal flexibility, promoting overall reproductive health.
• Stimulates abdominal organs, including the ovaries, contributing to tubal health.

Addressing Stress Reduction and Hormonal Harmony Through Yoga

Stress and hormonal imbalances are intricately interwoven in the tapestry of reproductive health, impacting the intricate functionality of fallopian tubes. Yoga provides a sanctuary for stress reduction, employing mindfulness and relaxation techniques. As stress levels diminish, a restoration of hormonal harmony unfolds, creating an environment conducive to optimal tubal function and fertility.

Unveiling Scientific Perspectives on Yoga and Reproductive Health

The marriage of ancient wisdom and modern science is evident in scientific studies exploring the correlation between yoga and reproductive health. Robust research suggests that yoga significantly contributes to stress reduction, improves blood flow to reproductive organs, and regulates hormonal balance—elements intricately linked to optimal tubal health. This scientific underpinning enriches the profound ancient wisdom of yoga with empirical evidence.

Harmonizing Yoga into a Complete Fertility Plan

Yoga seamlessly extends into the broader canvas of reproductive wellness, harmonising with medical interventions and lifestyle adjustments. This approach, fusing the ancient principles of yoga with contemporary fertility treatments and a health-conscious lifestyle, empowers individuals on their journey toward optimal reproductive health. The comprehensive strategy unfolds as a transformative guide, exploring the complicated path toward parenthood.

Complete Maternity and Gynae Care – The Best IVF Centre in Mohali and Chandigarh

Your well-being is our priority, and at our centre, we’re committed to supporting you on your journey to health. Through a combination of yoga practices and counselling sessions, we aim to provide comprehensive care for your mind and body. Apart from being a trusted maternity hospital, we’re recognised as the top IVF centre in Chandigarh. Our skilled fertility specialists use safe techniques and modern equipment. With a solid reputation in the fertility and maternity care community, we have the highest success rates in the Tricity area. With over 25+ years of experience, we’ve helped many couples overcome fertility challenges. Book your appointment now!

During consultations at fertility clinics, most people often inquire about their reproductive health, “Can infertility be genetic?”

Discovering infertility can be an emotionally challenging experience for anyone. But, the dedicated team at Dr Sodhi’s Health Care and IVF Centre, Mohali, Punjab, India, is here to support you throughout your fertility journey. In this guide, we’ll delve into the fundamental genetic factors contributing to infertility.

Keep reading!

Genetic Factors Behind Male And Female Infertility

Traditionally, fertility and genetics were considered as distinct areas, primarily addressed when couples had a family history of inherited genetic conditions. But now, with the evolution of science and technology, a lot of research is happening on the genetic factors in fertility. In the majority of cases, this can be the reason behind failed IVF cycles.

Book an Appointment with Dr. Lavleen Sodhi for all your Fertility concerns!

Couples experiencing infertility can often be associated with genetic factors. From inherited chromosomal abnormalities to gene mutations, both males and females have different outcomes from both these factors. Here is how genetic factor affcets fertility:

• Abnormalities in the genes of a male, female or both can cause infertility such as implantation failure or miscarriage. It can also cause child birth defects.
• There are three categories of genetic abnormalities that can impact the development of an embryo: Chromosomal abnormalities, Single gene disorders, such as cystic fibrosis, and Genomic imprinting disorders.
• Certain genetic disorders can lead to sperm abnormalities in males, while genetic conditions in females can give rise to ovulation difficulties, ultimately leading to infertility in affected individuals.

Genetic counselling is available at Dr Sodhi’s Health Care Multispeciality Hospital and IVF Center to provide support so you can make an informed decision.

Also, fertility specialists in Mohali try to avoid the effects of gene disorders through preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) during IVF procedures. What is PGT?

Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT) is a medical procedure used during in vitro fertilization (IVF) to assess the genetic makeup of embryos before they are implanted in the uterus. It involves the following types of testing:

Preimplantation Genetic Diagnosis (PGD): It is a genetic testing procedure performed during in vitro fertilization (IVF) to assess the genetic characteristics of embryos before they are implanted in the uterus. PGD is primarily used to screen for specific genetic abnormalities or conditions, as well as to select embryos with desired genetic traits.

Preimplantation Genetic Screening (PGS): This is a laboratory technique used during in vitro fertilization (IVF) to examine embryos for chromosomal abnormalities. PGS is primarily focused on assessing the overall chromosomal health of embryos and is often utilized to improve the chances of a successful pregnancy in cases of advanced maternal age, recurrent miscarriages, or multiple failed IVF attempts.

PGT-A (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Aneuploidy): This type of testing checks for numerical chromosomal abnormalities, such as aneuploidy, which is an abnormal number of chromosomes in an embryo. PGT-A helps identify embryos with the correct number of chromosomes, increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy and reducing the risk of miscarriage.

PGT-M (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Monogenic Disorders): PGT-M is used to detect specific genetic mutations or single-gene disorders that a couple may carry, such as cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, or Huntington’s disease. It allows for the selection of embryos that do not carry the specific genetic mutation, reducing the risk of passing on the disorder to the offspring.

PGT-SR (Preimplantation Genetic Testing for Structural Rearrangements): PGT-SR is utilized when one or both partners have structural chromosomal abnormalities, like translocations or inversions. This testing helps identify embryos with balanced chromosomal arrangements, increasing the chances of a successful pregnancy.

PGT is a valuable tool for couples at risk of passing on genetic disorders to their children or for those who have experienced recurrent pregnancy loss or infertility. It enables the selection of embryos with a higher likelihood of being genetically healthy, improving the chances of a successful pregnancy and the birth of a healthy child.

Fertility specialists in Mohali try to avoid the effects of gene disorders through preimplantation genetic testing (PGT) during IVF procedures.

Is There Genetic Blood Test?

A genetic blood test before fertility treatment is commonly performed to assess the genetic health of prospective parents. This test is typically referred to as “genetic carrier screening” or “preconception genetic testing.”

A blood sample is taken from each partner, and their DNA is analyzed to identify any known genetic mutations associated with inherited disorders. The test typically looks for mutations linked to conditions like cystic fibrosis, sickle cell anemia, Tay-Sachs disease, and many others, depending on the test panel used.

What are other possible reasons for infertility?

Several factors can contribute to infertility, and in women, one prevalent factor is the presence of ovulation disorders. Polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) is a common condition that can disrupt the ovulation process. Genetic predisposition plays a significant role in the development of PCOS, and it tends to be hereditary. Therefore, if your mother had PCOS, you may have a higher risk of experiencing it as well, potentially affecting your fertility.

Infertility can also arise from other issues affecting the reproductive organs, such as blocked fallopian tubes, which may be caused by conditions like endometriosis (a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus) or pelvic infections. Uterine fibroids, which are growths in the uterine muscle, can also contribute to infertility. It’s worth noting that both endometriosis and uterine fibroids can have a hereditary component, running in families.

In women, age is also an important factor in infertility. The probability of a woman getting pregnant during a specific menstrual cycle starts to decrease as she enters her early 30s. As she continues to age, not only does the quantity of her eggs diminish, but the proportion of abnormal eggs also increases, consequently elevating the risk of miscarriages and the occurrence of Down syndrome. Specific genetic conditions, such as fragile X syndrome, are associated with the premature depletion of eggs and are frequently linked to a family history. For men, infertility is most commonly attributed to the quantity and quality of sperm.

Congratulations on embarking on this incredible journey called pregnancy. While it’s a time of joy and anticipation, it can also be a period filled with misconceptions and myths. In this article, we will separate fact from fiction and provide you with valuable information about pregnancy.

Whether you’re searching for the best fertility hospital in Chandigarh or other areas, the best IVF centre in Chandigarh, or a normal delivery clinic, this guide will help you make informed decisions.

Myth 1: You Can’t Get Pregnant While Breastfeeding

Fact: While breastfeeding may reduce the chances of getting pregnant, it’s not a foolproof method of contraception. It’s essential to use contraception or consult a healthcare professional like Dr.Lavleen Sodhi if you want to avoid another pregnancy soon after childbirth.

Myth 2: Morning Sickness Only Happens in the Morning

Fact: Morning sickness can strike at any time of the day. It’s not limited to mornings. If you experience severe nausea or vomiting during pregnancy, consult your gynaecologist for guidance on managing it.

Myth 3: Eating for Two Means You Should Double Your Food Intake

Fact: During pregnancy, you need extra nutrients, but you don’t need to eat double the amount of food. Focus on a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, lean proteins, and whole grains to support your growing baby’s needs.

Myth 4: High Heels Are Safe to Wear During Pregnancy

Fact: High heels can affect your balance and increase the risk of falls, especially as your body changes during pregnancy. Opt for comfortable and supportive shoes to reduce the risk of accidents.

Myth 5: You Should Avoid Exercise During Pregnancy

Fact: Regular, moderate exercise is usually safe and can provide numerous benefits during pregnancy, such as improved mood and reduced back pain. Consult your healthcare provider for exercise recommendations tailored to your situation.

Myth 6: You Can Predict Your Baby’s Gender Based on the Bump Shape

Fact: The shape of your baby bump is influenced by factors like your body shape, baby’s position, and the number of pregnancies you’ve had. It has no scientific correlation with the baby’s gender.

Myth 7: Cesarean Sections Are the Easy Way Out

Fact: Cesarean sections are surgical procedures and come with their own set of risks and recovery challenges. They are typically recommended for medical reasons, and vaginal birth is often considered the safer option if there are no complications.

Myth 8: Home Births Are Safer Than Hospital Births

Fact: While some women choose home births, it’s essential to consider the potential risks. Hospitals have medical staff and equipment readily available to handle any emergencies that may arise during childbirth.

Myth 9: You Should Avoid Seafood Entirely During Pregnancy

Fact: While it’s essential to avoid high-mercury fish like shark and swordfish, most seafood is safe and highly beneficial during pregnancy. Fish like salmon and sardines are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, which promote your baby’s brain and eye development.

Myth 10: Heartburn During Pregnancy Means Your Baby Will Have Lots of Hair

Fact: There’s no scientific evidence to support the idea that heartburn during pregnancy is linked to a baby’s hair growth. Heartburn is a common symptom due to hormonal changes and the pressure of the growing uterus on the stomach.

Myth 11: You Should “Eat for Two” in Terms of Calories

Fact: While you need extra nutrients, you only need about 300-500 extra calories per day during pregnancy. Overeating can lead to excessive weight gain, which may be challenging to lose postpartum.

Myth 12: You Can Predict the Exact Due Date

Fact: Due dates are estimates and are not always accurate. Only about 5% of babies are born on their due date. Most pregnancies last between 37 and 42 weeks. Your healthcare provider will monitor your progress and adjust your due date if necessary.

Myth 13: Prenatal Vitamins Can Replace a Healthy Diet

Fact: Prenatal vitamins are essential to supplement any nutritional gaps, but they should not replace a balanced diet. Whole foods provide a wider range of nutrients that are essential for both you and your baby.

Myth 14: All Pregnant Women Experience the Same Symptoms

Fact: Pregnancy symptoms vary widely from woman to woman. Some may have morning sickness, while others may not. It’s essential to understand that everyone’s pregnancy journey is unique.

Myth 15: You Should Avoid Traveling During Pregnancy

Fact: Most women can travel safely during pregnancy. However, it’s crucial to discuss your travel plans with your healthcare provider, especially if you have any complications or are nearing your due date.

Myth 16: Natural Remedies Are Always Safe During Pregnancy

Fact: Natural doesn’t always mean safe during pregnancy. Some herbs and supplements can be harmful to your baby. Always consult your healthcare provider before trying any natural remedies.

In conclusion, pregnancy myths can be misleading, and it’s essential to rely on accurate information and the guidance of healthcare professionals. Whether you choose a normal delivery clinic or require assistance from the best fertility hospital in Chandigarh or the best IVF centre in Chandigarh, your health and your baby’s well-being should be your top priorities. Enjoy this incredible journey and take the time to educate yourself on the facts to make informed decisions.

When a woman is pregnant, her body goes through many changes, and she needs to make special changes to her diet and lifestyle to help her baby grow properly. 

If you’re pregnant, you might have already started eating healthier foods like whole grains, green vegetables, and fruits to ensure both you and your baby get the right pregnancy diet nutrients. 

While most veggies are good for your baby, some, like bitter gourd (karela), may not be the best choice during pregnancy. Let’s find out if it’s safe to eat bitter gourd (karela) during pregnancy.

Is it Okay to Eat Bitter Gourd When You’re Pregnant? 

Bitter gourds have lots of good nutrients for pregnant women and their babies, but some people aren’t sure if it’s safe. So, it’s your choice: you can eat them if you want, or you can skip them.

Some studies have looked at how eating bitter gourd during pregnancy can affect moms and their babies. The results are a bit mixed. Some parts of the bitter gourd, like the fruit and leaves, seem to be safe when turned into extracts. They even have vitamin C that helps moms fight off bad germs and stay healthy during pregnancy.

But it’s not all good news. Some parts of bitter gourd, like the seeds and roots, can make the mommy’s stomach move a little too much, like a gentle shake. That’s not good for the baby. 

Now, there’s no clear proof that eating bitter gourd is like a superhero power for pregnant moms. It doesn’t seem to directly fix problems during pregnancy or help with staying the right weight.

So, if you’re pregnant and you want to eat some bitter gourd, it’s probably okay every once in a while, and not too much at once. But it’s really important to talk to a doctor first to make sure it’s safe for you and your baby. Always be careful and ask for help from Pregnancy & Maternity Clinic in Mohali or other areas when you’re not sure!

Benefits of Eating Bitter Gourd (Karela) During Pregnancy

The benefits of eating bitter gourd during pregnancy are as follows:

1. Super Folate Booster: Best fertility specialist in Chandigarh said that bitter gourd has a lot of folates, which is like a superhero for babies. It helps the babies’ bodies develop properly and stay away from any problems.
2. Feeling Full and Healthy: Bitter gourd is like a magic vegetable that makes pregnant women feel full and happy. It stops them from wanting to eat too much junk food so they can stay healthy even when they’re having a baby.
3. Stomach Problems No More: Sometimes, pregnant women have stomach problems like being stuck on the toilet for a long time. Bitter gourd helps with these problems and makes them feel better.
4. Sugar Control Helper: Bitter gourd is helpful for those pregnant ladies who have too much sugar in their blood. It has special things that can bring the sugar back to normal and keep both mother and baby safe.

Possible Side Effects of Eating Bitter Gourd During Pregnancy

Eating bitter gourd while pregnant can be harmful to the baby. Here are some reasons why:

1. Anaemia: Some pregnant women might get sick from bitter gourd because it has something called vicine that can destroy their red blood cells. This could make them very weak and hurt their pregnancy. So, it’s better not to eat bitter gourd during pregnancy. But if you really want to, talk to your best fertility specialist in Chandigarh first and eat just a little bit.
2. Toxicity: Bitter gourds have things like Momordica, quinine, and glycosides that can be like poison to your body. They can make your stomach hurt, mess up your eyesight, make you throw up, feel really tired, have sore muscles, feel sick, and even make your mouth make too much spit. 
3. Stomach Problems: Eating bitter gourd can give you a stomach ache, make it hard to digest food, give you diarrhea, make your belly hurt, and more. Even the seeds of bitter gourd can cause these problems.
4. Bleeding: Some experts from trusted pregnancy care in Mohali, Chandigarh say that having bitter gourd juice when you’re pregnant might make your belly squeeze too much and even make you bleed, which could lead to baby death.

FAQ

Is it safe to eat cooked bitter gourd during pregnancy’s first trimester?

Ans: Consuming cooked bitter gourd (karela) while first trimester of pregnancy, particularly in the early stages, requires careful consideration. Bitter gourd has specific nutrients that may impact pregnancy, so it’s crucial to be aware of possible concerns. 

Is it safe to eat bitter gourd during pregnancy in the second trimester?

Ans: Eating bitter gourd during the second trimester of pregnancy requires some careful thinking. It’s really important to talk to your doctors at the best maternity hospital in Chandigarh before you start eating bitter gourd. They can give you advice according to your health and pregnancy. If you decide to have a bitter gourd, just don’t eat too much, and pay attention to how your body feels. 

Does bitter gourd contain folic acid?

Ans: Bitter gourd, also known as bitter melon or Momordica Charania, does have a bit of folic acid. Folic acid, also called folate or vitamin B9, is super important for pregnant ladies because it helps keep the baby’s brain and spinal cord healthy and prevents problems with the neural tube.

Does bitter gourd cause miscarriage?

Ans: It is essential to remember that you should eat bitter gourd in small amounts when you’re pregnant. Eating too much can cause digestive problems and might even cause miscarriage. It is a good idea to talk to a doctor of pregnancy hospitals in Mohali before you start eating bitter gourd while pregnant.

Conclusion

In summary, bitter gourd (karela) can provide certain benefits, such as folate for fetal development and potential sugar control, but it also carries risks, including anemia and digestive issues. Pregnant women should consult with healthcare providers like the best maternity hospital in Mohali for personalized guidance, exercise moderation, and prioritizing their well-being and their baby’s health when considering bitter gourd in their diet.