Since ages, debates on eating fruits like papaya during pregnancy have been doing the rounds. Now, questions on the potential health benefits and risks related to vegetables such as brinjal (eggplant or aubergine) are being raised by both experts and laymen. Without a doubt, these medical concerns are certainly important to ensure a safe maternity experience. 

Being one the best pregnancy hospitals in Mohali, we decided to break down everything around eggplant and pregnancy into titbits.

Is It Safe To Eat Brinjal During Pregnancy?

Till now, there’s not been a simple ‘yes’ or ‘no’ answer to this question. This is because brinjal can provide rich nutrition as well as be a big threat to the well-being of an expectant woman and the fetus. The effects it can have vary from one person to another. In other words, your healthcare provider would need to consider all your past and present medical records along with your dietary requirements, to give you the right advice. 

Nutrition For Pregnant Women – Brinjal Benefits Vs Risks 

While it’s not easy to say exactly how eggplant affects pregnancy, here are some things to keep in mind, when including it in your diet. 

Note: The following recommendations regarding brinjal are general information recognized by almost every pregnancy and gynecology clinic. However, we do not advise you to consider these as replacements for personal medical consultation and treatment. 

Health Advantages:

Rich Fiber – Brinjal can be a valuable dietary resource, effectively helping with common pregnancy problems such as constipation. Moreover, it has vitamin K to avoid problems of blood clotting and vitamin C, for boosting the immune system. 

Balances High BP – You are more likely to have high blood pressure during pregnancy because of the hormonal changes in your body. Eggplant contains potassium, thiamin, bioflavonoids, and riboflavin, which can help control high blood pressure, ensuring an optimal heart rate. 

Boosts The Number of RBCs –

Red blood cells (RBCs) help grow a fetus’s nerves, brain, and muscles. They also make sure both you and your baby have enough iron. Eggplant contains folate, which turns into folic acid, increasing the RBC count. 

Keeps Cholesterol In Check –

Eggplants are believed to reduce the “bad” cholesterol, known as low-density lipoprotein (LDL), and increase the “good” cholesterol, called high-density lipoprotein (HDL). This cholesterol control not only helps with your baby’s heart health but also improves your cardiovascular well-being. 

If you live in Mohali or nearby, you can easily find the best fertility specialist in Chandigarh to better understand the benefits of eggplant in your case. 

Side Effects: 

Allergies – Some people can be allergic to brinjal and experience skin rashes, itching, swelling, or digestive issues like stomach pain. Allergies, if not managed properly, can cause risks during pregnancy. If you know you have allergies or if you feel unwell after eating eggplant, seek advice from your doctor. 

Indigestion – While expecting a baby, you may go through heartburn or acid reflux. If you already have a weak digestive system, eating eggplant can make you feel more uncomfortable. In this case, you must completely avoid including it in your diet. 

Premature Birth – When you’re pregnant and come into contact with toxoplasmosis (the soil in which brinjal grows), it can raise the chances of your baby being born too early. This can cause several problems because your baby’s organs and body systems might not be fully developed yet to survive outside the womb. Always wash eggplants thoroughly and handle them with complete hygiene. 

Gestational Diabetes Mellitus – If you have GDM or are at risk, watch how many carbs you eat, including those in eggplant. The glycemic index in it can lead to high levels of sugar in the blood. If you’re struggling with diabetic problems in pregnancy, consult only the certified and the best maternity hospital in Chandigarh and around to receive appropriate treatment. 

The Right Way to Have Brinjal During Pregnancy

Now that we know both the upsides and downsides of eggplant let’s dive into the possibilities of making it a part of your diet in a safe and fun way. 

Mind These Precautions:

1. Eat in a moderate amount and not so frequently. 

2. Buy ones that are small, smooth, and firm with no marks or holes. 

3. Wash eggplants under running water and peel off the skins. 

4. Soak them in warm salt water before cooking. This can help get rid of any bacteria and pesticides. 

5. Cook or roast eggplants properly; don’t eat them raw or overcooked. 

Make It Tasty

1. Prepare A Delicious Aloo Sabzi/Bharta – You can make a yummy Aloo Sabzi (potato curry) or Bharta (mashed eggplant) during your pregnancy. These dishes provide you with energy (from potatoes) and vital vitamins (from eggplants).

2. Add It Into Your Sandwich Filling – When you make sandwiches, try adding slices of grilled eggplant. It’s a great way to eat more veggies and make your sandwich more delicious.

3. Top It Over Your Favorite Pasta – You can put grilled or roasted eggplant on your pasta. It adds a different flavor and goes well with tomato or creamy sauces. Plus, it gives you fiber and vitamins.

4. Make A Delightful Mix Veg Soup – Prepare a soup with different veggies, including eggplant. Mixing them will completely level up your overall health.

5. Enjoy It The Barbeque Style – Grilled eggplant gives you vitamins, antioxidants, and fiber. Try grilling eggplant on a barbecue. It’s not only tasty but also healthy. You can use your favorite spices for extra flavor.

The Takeaway 

Brinjal is a good source of essential nutrients like fiber, vitamins, and minerals. However, there are also a few health concerns to it. The points mentioned above can help you easily compare its good and bad effects. To sum up, brinjal can be a nutritious addition to your pregnancy diet when consumed sensibly, offering both flavor and essential nutrients. But as mentioned before, you must seek advice from doctors and experts at any best maternity hospital in Mohali (or surrounding cities) to always be sure and safe. 

Do you (or your partner experience) heavy menstrual bleeding or pain in the pelvis? These symptoms could indicate the presence of uterine fibroids. More commonly known as fibroids, these are tumours in the uterus or on its wall. Though they do not pose any threat to your survival, they can greatly affect your normal life functioning. They are common in women during their 30s and 40s but can develop at any age.

Interestingly, these uninvited roommates inside your womb may not always give clear signs of their presence. A healthy lifestyle may help you prevent it naturally, but only a medical professional can accurately diagnose, manage, and treat this disorder. To know more about this, you can book a consultation with an experienced doctor at one of the best maternity centres in Chandigarh and Mohali – Dr. Sodhi’s Health Care Multispecialty Hospital & IVF Centre.

Can Fibroids Affect Fertility And Pregnancy?

This is perhaps a million-dollar question for women with fibroids. Yes, fibroids can sometimes affect fertility. Fibroids may block the fallopian tubes or cause problems related to fertilization of the egg. During pregnancy, they can give rise to complications, miscarriages, premature birth, or the need for a cesarean section (C-section). However, many women still manage to have healthy pregnancies and deliveries. 

What Causes Uterine Fibroids?

So far, no precise causes of uterine fibroids have been identified by doctors or researchers. But the following factors can be responsible for this condition:

1. Hormones & Genetics – Uterine fibroids seemed to be influenced by genes and/or hormonal changes. The imbalance of estrogen and progesterone (hormones responsible for regulating the menstrual cycle) can also cause the growth of fibroids. Additionally, having a family history of this disorder can make you susceptible. 

2. Obesity and Unhealthy Diet – Your dietary habits and overall body weight play a great role in the development of fibroids. Deficiencies in the body caused by the absence of green vegetables, fruits, and dairy products in your diet are also the major causes. 

3. Increased ECM – The extracellular matrix (ECM) is a substance that acts as a binding material for cells. Any abnormal increase in the ECM causes stiffness in the cells that cause the growth of fibroids. 

Some Signs and Symptoms

As discussed before, the formation of fibroids in your body may or may not always have clear signs. However, some of the most common symptoms are:

1. Heavy Menstrual Bleeding: Excessive flow of blood during periods (menorrhagia) is one of the key symptoms of uterine fibroids. Usually, women with fibroids experience prolonged and heavy periods, which can lead to anemia too. But before you do the self-diagnosis, always make sure to consult a specialist and know the exact cause of this heavy bleeding. 

2. Pain During Intercourse: Your pelvic organs may feel pain or discomfort while having sex. This can be fibroids putting pressure on the pelvis muscles, also causing pain in your back and legs.

3. Frequent Urination: The urge to urinate often can be related to large fibroids in your uterus. They can exert pressure on the bladder, resulting in increased frequency of urination.

4. Other Symptoms: Abnormal or chronic vaginal discharge, bloating, constipation, and other such uneasiness related to lower abdomen areas may point to fibroids.  

Common Diagnosis and Medical Assessment

If you think that you may have uterine fibroids or are experiencing any of the mentioned symptoms, it is necessary to get a diagnosis. The healthcare providers at Dr. Sodhi’s Multispeciality & IVF Center, the best maternity hospital in Mohali, use 4 main diagnostic techniques:

1. Hysteroscopy and Pelvic Examination: Hysteroscopy is a way for doctors to look inside a woman’s uterus using a tiny camera to help diagnose and treat problems like abnormal bleeding or growth. Additionally, they can perform a pelvic examination to check for fibroids by feeling the uterus and surrounding areas.

2. Ultrasound: Anything not clearly detected in hysteroscopy can be better understood with ultrasound. This can help confirm the presence of fibroids, determine their size, and find their specific location within the uterus.

3. MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging): Like the imaging tests mentioned above, an MRI scan also provides images of the uterus but in a more detailed way. This is specifically useful when your doctor plans a surgical intervention.

4. Hysterosonography: A sterile saltwater solution is poured into the uterus to expand its cavity. This offers a clearer visualization of the interior of the uterus, helping to assess the presence of fibroids. 

After diagnosis, your doctor can talk to you about the best treatment choices based on your situation and what you prefer.

The Best Treatment Options For Fibroids

1. Medications: When fibroids cause problems, medicines can help. Birth control pills and similar hormones can make heavy periods and cramps better. Sometimes, doctors give a medicine called GnRH (gonadotropin-releasing hormone) agonists to shrink fibroids for a while by lowering estrogen. They can also prescribe pain pills to ease fibroid-related pain.

2. Minimally Invasive Procedures: If you have troublesome fibroid symptoms, there are less invasive ways to treat them. These methods try to either take out the fibroids or make them smaller without using major surgeries. Some common options include:

• Uterine Artery Embolization (UAE):  During this procedure, a specialist uses X-rays to put small particles into the blood vessels that go to the fibroids. This blocks their blood supply, making them smaller and usually making the symptoms better.

• Endometrial Ablation: Endometrial ablation is a treatment for heavy periods caused by fibroids. In this simple procedure, a doctor uses things like laser, heat, or freezing to remove the lining of the uterus. It doesn’t get rid of the fibroids, but it can stop or greatly reduce heavy bleeding.

• Focused Ultrasound Surgery (FUS): FUS or MR-guided focused ultrasound, uses strong sound waves to warm up and get rid of fibroids. It’s a treatment that doesn’t need any cuts in your body and can be an option instead of surgery for some people.

• Radiofrequency ablation (RFA) – In this treatment, doctors use heat to shrink or get rid of the fibroids. It’s less invasive than surgery and can be an option for some fibroid cases.

3. Hysterectomy:  It is a surgery doctors might suggest if fibroids are causing big problems that can’t be fixed with other treatments. They take out the uterus, which can get rid of the fibroids, but it also means you can’t have kids anymore.

4. Myomectomy: A myomectomy is an operation where a surgeon takes out the fibroids but keeps the uterus. It’s a good option if you want to have babies or don’t want to remove your uterus.

Apart from medical treatments, changing your lifestyle can help with fibroid symptoms. Eating well and exercising regularly can make you feel better overall and might reduce your symptoms. Managing stress with things like yoga or meditation can also help because stress can make fibroid problems worse.

Get Treated at the Best Maternity Hospital in Chandigarh

Getting medical help quickly and finding out what’s going on with your uterus is important when dealing with uterine fibroids. You must have open and thorough discussions with reliable doctors to determine the most suitable treatment plan for your situation. We at  Dr. Sodhi’s Health Care Multispecialty Hospital & IVF Centre have 15+ years of experience in helping women live the healthy and happy life they deserve. 

We are one of the most trusted maternity and fertility hospitals in Mohali and Chandigarh. Our group of experienced doctors has helped countless women in fighting with uterine fibroids. We also have modern equipment and methods to provide a variety of medical treatments and services, including:

• In vitro fertilization (IVF) & IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)
• Egg & Sperm Donation
• 24-HOUR Pediatric Emergency
• Level II NICU
• Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)
• Blastocyst Transfer
• Embryo Hatching
• Surrogacy & more.

Don’t ignore your symptoms and book an appointment with us today!

Carrying your bundle of joy in your womb is a wonderful and life-changing experience, filled with many physical and hormonal shifts. Yet, it’s a crucial time with its own set of challenges that can affect your health and your baby’s. Gestational Diabetes Mellitus (GDM) is one such issue that pregnant women may unexpectedly experience. 

What is Gestational Diabetes?

It is a type of diabetes that can happen when a woman is pregnant. It occurs because the body can’t make enough insulin, which is needed to control sugar levels in the blood during pregnancy. This can be risky for both the mom and the baby.

You can get one-on-one information on this by consulting the medical experts at Dr. Sodhi’s Health Care Multispecialty Hospital & IVF Centre, the best fertility and maternity hospital in Mohali. 

What are the Effects of Gestational Diabetes on The Mother And The Baby?

When gestational diabetes isn’t taken care of properly, it can cause serious complications and issues. 

For the Mom:

1. She might develop type 2 diabetes later in life.

2. She could require a cesarean section for delivery.

3. There’s a higher risk of high blood pressure during pregnancy.

For the Baby:

1. The baby might be born larger than usual, which can lead to birth injuries.

2. After birth, the baby might experience low blood sugar (hypoglycemia).

3. The baby could have a greater chance of becoming overweight or developing type 2 diabetes as they grow up.

You must get the right medical advice and support during your pregnancy to ensure your and your baby’s safety along with a smooth and healthy delivery. 

The Possible Causes of GDM

The exact cause of gestational diabetes is still unknown yet a few factors can be responsible, like:

1. Age: If you’re older than 25, you have a higher chance of getting gestational diabetes during pregnancy. This is because your body changes as you get older, affecting how it handles blood sugar. So, if you’re in this age group, it’s important to pay close attention to your doctor’s advice on keeping your blood sugar levels in check for your and your baby’s well-being.

2. Hormones: When you’re pregnant, your body changes and the placenta (connected by the umbilical cord) starts making hormones. These hormones can affect your insulin levels and can cause something called ‘insulin resistance,’ where your body doesn’t use insulin as well as it should. This might make it harder to keep your blood sugar balanced. 

3. Genetics: If diabetes runs in your family, it means there’s a higher chance you could get gestational diabetes when you’re pregnant. This is because some things related to diabetes can be passed down in your family’s genes. So, when you’re expecting a baby, it’s important to tell your doctor if anyone in your family has had diabetes. Your healthcare provider can then watch your blood sugar more closely and help you take care of yourself and your baby.

4. Previous Pregnancy with GDM: If you had gestational diabetes when you were pregnant before, there’s a higher chance it might reappear if you get pregnant again. It’s like a pattern. So, if this has happened to you before, your doctor will be extra careful during your next pregnancy. 

5. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): PCOS and gestational diabetes are connected because both involve a problem with insulin. In PCOS, your body often doesn’t use insulin properly, so your blood sugar levels can go up. During pregnancy, all women become a bit more resistant to insulin to make sure the baby gets enough nutrients. But if you already have PCOS, this insulin resistance can be even worse.

6. Obesity: If you’re overweight before getting pregnant it can make it more likely for you to have gestational diabetes while you’re pregnant. This is because having too much body weight can affect how your body handles sugar. So, if this is the case for you, you must tell your physician. 

Major Symptoms of GDM

Gestational Diabetes may not always give clear symptoms of its presence. A few noticeable signs in your body can help you identify the development of this condition:

1. Feeling more thirsty and needing to pee a lot more than usual.
2. Feeling tired, more than the usual pregnancy fatigue.
3. Getting infections more often than you used to.
4. Having trouble seeing clearly, like things getting blurry

Do you suspect you have gestational diabetes? We at Dr. Sodhi’s Health Care Multispecialty Hospital & IVF Centre, the best maternity center in Chandigarh, can help you manage it to keep both you and your baby healthy. 

Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes 

Doctors usually check for this diabetes between the 24th and 28th weeks of pregnancy using a test where you don’t eat overnight, and then drink a sweet drink. They then check the blood sugar levels at certain intervals.

But this may not be the same for all patients and other tests during other phases of your pregnancy can be recommended.

Glucose Challenge Test: You’ll be asked to have a sweet drink. After one hour, your blood sugar is tested. If it’s 190 mg/dL or higher, it means you have gestational diabetes.

Usually, a blood sugar level below 140 mg/dL is considered okay in this test. But if it’s higher, you’ll need the longer test (the glucose challenge one) to be sure if you have gestational diabetes.

Follow-up Glucose Tolerance Test: This test is like the first one, but the sugary drink is even sweeter, and they check your blood sugar every hour for three hours. If at least two of those checks show your blood sugar is too high, you have gestational diabetes.

Visit the best pregnancy care hospital in Mohali to find the diagnostic test right for your condition. 

Effectively Managing Gestational Diabetes 

When you’re diagnosed with gestational diabetes, it’s important to do certain things to have a healthy pregnancy and delivery:

1. Keep a Proper Diet: A dietitian can make a special eating plan for you. It’s about watching how many carbs you eat and having balanced meals. 

2. Exercise Daily: Doing regular exercises can help your body use insulin better. Ask your doctor what exercises are safe when you’re pregnant.

3. Take the Right Medication: Sometimes, your doctor might give you insulin or pills to help control your blood sugar if diet and exercise alone aren’t enough. 

4. Regular Check: You need to keep track of your blood sugar levels often. You can do this with a little finger stick test or by using a device that keeps an eye on your sugar levels all the time.

Besides these measures, keeping a close eye on your baby is an important part of your care plan. Your doctor may use ultrasounds and tests to monitor your baby’s overall health. If you haven’t gone into labor by your due date, or sometimes even earlier, your healthcare provider may help start labor. Going beyond your due date can increase the risks for both you and your baby.

After giving birth, your physician will check your blood sugar level. They will do this again in 2-3 months to ensure it’s back to a normal range. If your levels are normal, you’ll need to have your diabetes checked every two to three years. 

Finding the Best Maternity and Fertility Hospital in Chandigarh 

The doctors at Dr. Sodhi’s Health Care Multispecialty Hospital & IVF Centre hold a valuable experience of 15 years+ in treating every complication related to pregnancy. Our dedicated practice can help you easily get through the difficulties of gestational diabetes. 

At our maternity clinic, we have a team of experienced pediatricians. They are here for regular baby check-ups and vaccinations in the clinic. In case of emergencies, they are available 24/7. When a baby is born, there is a dedicated pediatrician present to provide comprehensive care for both the mother and the baby.

Our medical services also extend to:

• In vitro fertilization (IVF) & IUI (Intrauterine Insemination)
• Egg & Sperm Donation
• 24-HOUR Pediatric Emergency
• Level II NICU
• Preimplantation Genetic Testing (PGT)
• Blastocyst Transfer
• Embryo Hatching
• Surrogacy & more.

Book an appointment with us today to always experience happy and healthy parenthood. 

Are you wondering whether completing five decades of your life should be a joyful or restless feeling? Well, that completely depends on how you see your past experiences and continue to have an overall view of life. But stepping into your 50s can usually be overwhelming because of the health issues you already have or are likely to develop.

The good news is, that you can still have great control over your well-being. It all starts with identifying and adopting habits that help you live the healthy and happy life you desire. Coming back to the question, “how to stay healthy after 50?” 

Starting with the Most Obvious 

So, what’s a healthy lifestyle over 50? As a matter of fact, the changes for both men and women at this age are particularly the same. Yet, certain tips and suggestions work differently for each biological gender.

Let’s first uncover a few everyday healthy habits for both sexes.

1. Shun Away the Gadgets – Your phone addiction is an adaptation to today’s tech-driven world. But you need to understand that at this stage of aging, you must take some time off from your screen. Not only would it help your eyes and mind to relax, but also reduce neck, shoulder, and elbow pains. Try spending time with friends and family. If that’s not frequently possible, you can join a social club and interact with people. You can also spend some ‘me’ time by simply admiring nature, listening to music or reading a book.

2. Water to the Rescue – Keeping yourself hydrated with the right quantity of water is necessary. Water is the most natural form of survival and nourishment for the body. Not many people know that it’s one of the primary sources of calcium, magnesium, chloride, sodium, and other vital nutrients. Water can help with a lot of common health problems after the age of 50. You should drink a glass of water on an empty stomach every morning. Depending on the season, you may reduce or increase your intake, but make sure to always consult your doctor or physician for guidance on the appropriate amount for your body. 

3. Keep it Moving – Staying active is important on your journey to a healthy lifestyle. It doesn’t necessarily involve any rigorous physical activity. A mild form of exercise, yoga or simply a walk are enough to keep your body moving. Based on your physiological problems, you must exercise under the guidance of a medical expert. If you feel unmotivated to exercise, it’s best to join some workout classes and sessions where you can find some encouragement and support to take care of your body.

4. Relish the Veggies – This answers the most commonly asked question too, “What should people over 50 eat?” Vegetables and fruits help maintain the healthy balance of all components in the body. For instance, green leafy vegetables can help you fight anemia (lower count of red blood cells due to lack of iron). Similarly, fruits help to boost your immunity. Seasonal fruits like mango and orange are rich sources of vitamins A and C. You can make a vegetable or fruit salad, adding some spices to enhance the taste. Your favorite veggies can also find someplace in your soups, wraps, or sandwiches. Additionally, follow a good and nutritious diet daily and avoid overeating, alcohol consumption, smoking, and other forms of addiction.

5. Dozing Off When It’s Time – Maintaining a healthy sleep cycle is necessary for all age groups. However, it becomes more important after 50 years of age. Try getting 7-8 hours of night sleep and a short nap in the afternoons or evenings, if needed. This will help naturally cure some of your physical and mental health problems. Getting enough sleep will also keep your mood uplifted and you’ll feel energetic and positive throughout the day. If you’re suffering from insomnia or anxiety problems that don’t let you sleep, you must immediately seek medical attention.

For Men in 50s

1. Regular Check on Prostate – An enlarged prostate can interfere with your normal life routine, with uneasy symptoms such as pain, frequent urination urges, loss of sexual function, etc. So, it’s important to get your prostate checked from time to time and take the necessary medications. A family history of prostate cancer is also quite common. This is why it’s best to take the required diagnosis and treatment on time. 

2. Control Your Cholesterol – According to WebMD, “High cholesterol, also called hypercholesterolemia, puts men at higher risk for heart attacks, strokes, and peripheral artery disease. For many men, the risk from high cholesterol starts in their 20s and goes up with age.”  So, men need to keep their cholesterol levels in check. Doing so can help you reduce the risk of heart attacks and other similar conditions. There are several cholesterol tests such as blood tests, total cholesterol, triglycerides, VLDL cholesterol, etc. You can consult a doctor and understand the most appropriate one for your health. 

For Women in 50s

1. Pay Attention To Your Calcium Levels – One of the biggest effects of menopause in women is the deficiency of calcium. As per an article by Open Access Government, women between the age of 50-55 years, “… lose a shocking 10% of their bone. However, for 1 in 4 women, it’s even worse. They are ‘fast bone losers’ and lose even greater amounts of bone – up to 20%”. This greatly impacts the overall bone strength of a woman leading to various joint problems such as osteoporosis, insomnia, fatigue, eczema (inflammation of skin), dental problems (relating to teeth), and so on. Better Health Channel recommends women an intake of 1,300 mg of calcium per day.

2. Limit the Sodium Intake – Just like high cholesterol levels lead to heart problems in men, women can suffer cardiac diseases because of excessive sodium in their bodies. Too much intake of salt can also lead to kidney diseases. You can start cutting on sodium by avoiding excessive consumption of all types of salts. As an alternative, you can go for non-salty herbs and seasonings to add flavor to your food. Additionally, you should avoid frozen and processed foods as they are high in sodium. 

Final Thoughts

By following these habits and paying attention to your health, you can have a happier and healthier time in your 50s. You can make this part of life feel good. In addition to taking care of your body, you must also develop a positive mindset. Don’t feel anxious about this stage of life. It’s like starting a new and wise phase, so make it all about being happy and staying healthy.

Are you or your partner going through IVF? There’s no doubt about this crucial journey being a rollercoaster with ups and downs both for the mother and father. So, giving each other emotional and physical support during this time is incredibly important. After all, your love and understanding for one another can make a world of difference during this hopeful treatment. 

Knowing the Complete IVF Journey 

There are different ways you can be the pillar of love and guidance for each other. Check out the following stages and know how you can be in this together, physically and emotionally.

Preparing for IVF – The first stage of IVF begins with an appointment with a fertility specialist. During this crucial meeting, you will discuss your medical history, undergo a physical examination, and possibly some tests to assess your fertility potential. Your specialist will also explain the IVF process in detail, addressing any concerns or questions you may have. Knowing that you are supporting each other brings comfort and makes you both stronger. So, attend these counseling sessions together, and share your hopes and fears.

Stimulation Day– Once the necessary preparations are complete, the stimulation phase begins. This stage typically starts on the second or third day of the mother’s menstrual cycle. You will be prescribed fertility medications to stimulate the ovaries and promote the growth of multiple follicles. As the treatment begins, both you and your partner may get injections and experience hormonal changes. But you don’t need to panic and just cheer each other on.

Egg Retrieval & Fertilization – These stages are significant in the IVF process, taking place around days 14 to 15 of the stimulation phase. Your doctor will determine the right time for retrieval when the follicles are mature enough. After this, the embryologist will examine the collected eggs and prepare them for fertilization. Try to be present for the procedure (if allowed), offer emotional reassurance, help with post-procedure needs, and assist with daily tasks. 

Embryo Transfer Day – The embryo transfer itself is a relatively quick and painless procedure. Your doctor will carefully place the selected embryos into your (or your partner’s) uterus. The mother might be advised to rest for a short period after the transfer. During this time, both of you will experience heightened emotions. Engage in relaxation techniques or meditation before and after the procedure to reduce stress and anxiety. Reassure each other, knowing that feelings of hope and anxiety are normal during this waiting period.

The Two-Week Wait after Embryo Transfer- This stage is emotionally challenging with a critical wait of 14 days. Throughout this period, you will have to wait anxiously to find out if the embryo implanted in your uterus leads to a positive pregnancy test. It is natural to experience a mix of emotions, from hope and excitement to fear and anxiety. Support each other by engaging in stress-reducing activities and open communication. Stay positive, understand that the outcome is not entirely in your control, and plan distractions to keep you occupied.

Standing by Each Other Despite the Results

Dealing with IVF Success

If your IVF treatment leads to pregnancy success, the happiness and excitement both of you’ll experience would be indescribable. You will feel an overwhelming sense of relief and happiness. You’ll share in the excitement of becoming parents and cherish every moment of the pregnancy. You must attend doctor’s appointments together to witness the growth of your baby through ultrasounds and eagerly discuss the preparations for the arrival of your bundle of joy.

The support between both of you during a successful IVF pregnancy is crucial as you cope with the physiological and psychological changes that come with carrying a child. You can provide comfort and encouragement, reassuring each other through any pregnancy-related challenges that may arise. Moreover, you can often take on new roles to adjust to the needs of the expectant parent, showing love and dedication throughout the entire process.

But in the early stages of pregnancy, you may still feel anxious and scared despite the care and love you give each other. This is normal because you’ve put a lot of hope and effort into the IVF treatment, and you might worry about challenges related to parenting.

You can attend parenting classes during the pregnancy to confidently prepare for parenthood. These classes can provide valuable information and tips on how to care for your newborn, handle different situations, and build your confidence as parents. They can also be a great way to meet other expectant parents and share experiences and support each other. 

Dealing with IVF Failure 

However, if your first try with IVF treatment doesn’t lead to pregnancy, you both should stay headstrong and positive. It’s essential to cope with disappointment and grief together. You must understand that experiencing sadness and frustration is normal and valid, and it’s okay to feel a wide range of emotions. Lean on each other for support during these tough times and work together to handle your emotions.

The process of psychologically healing after IVF failure is different for every couple. Some of you may need space and time alone to process your emotions, while others find comfort in being close and open with each other. 

Both of you need to communicate honestly about your feelings and provide a safe space for each other to express your emotions. 

You can find consolation in seeking support from friends, family, or professional counseling services to help you cope with the upsetting emotions. No matter the outcome, the love and understanding you show each other during this time will leave a lasting impact on your relationship. 

Final Thoughts

IVF treatment strengthens your bond as a couple. Whether the outcome is successful or not, you face challenges together, grow closer, and find hope for the future. With support, love, and understanding, both of you become stronger. When the outcome is not as you expected, you may choose to explore further IVF attempts or consider other family-building options, such as adoption or surrogacy. Whatever path you decide to take, the key is to support and respect each other’s feelings and choices.

Hey there, moms-to-be! Pregnancy is a time of joy and excitement, but it also comes with a list of dos and don’ts. One common question that often pops up in your mind: is it safe to eat papaya during 9 months of pregnancy?

Well, eating a nutritious diet during pregnancy is very important. Adding a variety of fruits and vegetables into your meals not only fosters the baby’s growth but also contributes to your overall well-being. Papaya is also a very nutritious food, but there are a lot of myths floating here and there about eating papaya during pregnancy.

In this article, we will explore all the facts and guide you about eating papaya during pregnancy.

Nutritional Facts of Papaya

Papaya, often referred to as the “fruit of the angels,” boasts not only a delightful taste but also a wealth of nutritional benefits.

Medium-sized papaya is rich in vitamin C that helps reduce the risk of heart disease and boost the immune system. It’s also a good source of:

• Folate
• Vitamin A
• Fiber
• Copper
• Magnesium
• Potassium
• Pantothenic Acid

One small papaya of 152 grams contains:

• Calories: 59
• Carbohydrates: 15 grams
• Fiber: 3 grams
• Protein: 1 gram
• Vitamin C: 157% of the RDI
• Vitamin A: 33% of the RDI
• Folate (vitamin B9): 14% of the RDI
• Potassium: 11% of the RDI

Here’s a rundown of the nutritional facts that make papaya a standout addition to your diet:

• Papaya is a powerhouse of vitamins. It’s also a great source of vitamin A, which is essential for vision, cell growth, and immune system maintenance.
• It is rich in dietary fiber, promoting healthy digestion and regular bowel movements.
• Papaya is loaded with antioxidants that combat oxidative stress, reducing the risk of chronic diseases and supporting overall well-being.
• If you’re watching your calorie intake, papaya is a guilt-free choice. With its natural sweetness, it satisfies cravings without adding excessive calories to your daily total.

Incorporating papaya into your diet can contribute to a well-rounded and nutritious diet. You can enjoy it fresh, blend into smoothies, add to fruit salads, or use it in various culinary creations.

But, the question is still the same, if eating papaya is safe in 9 months of pregnancy?

Let’s find out!

Eating Papaya in Pregnancy

When periods delay, most women eat papaya to induce them. But, during pregnancy no one wants to take a chance as it is a beautiful phase and you want a healthy as well as safe pregnancy. You can eat ripe papaya during pregnancy in limited quantities. Yes, ripe papaya is good during pregnancy!

But, unripe or semi-ripe papaya is not good in pregnancy. Why?

It is because the unripe papaya contains elements called papain and latex. According to various studies, the presence of latex in unripe papaya may trigger uterine contractions. Also, the component papain in unripe papaya can cause early labor and is not good for the fetus.

Consult Dr.Lavleen Sodhi to know more about Pregnancy, Nutrition during pregnancy, IVF pregnancy, Miscarriages, and more.

If you want to eat papaya during pregnancy, then keep the following things in mind:

• Avoid eating unripe papayas, especially during the first trimester of your pregnancy.
• Do not consume papayas that have brown or green spots or have mould on them.
• Always remove the seeds and carefully cut the fleshy part away from the skin.
• Do not consume the fruit if it is seeping latex.
• Eat in limited quantities only.

Conclusion

While papaya is undoubtedly a nutritional powerhouse, its association with the enzyme papain and the potential to trigger contractions has led to mixed opinions among experts.

As an expectant mother, your top priority is the health and safety of both you and your developing baby. While some healthcare professionals might advise against consuming papaya, especially during the early stages of pregnancy, others may give the go-ahead for ripe papayas in moderation during later trimesters.

Ultimately, the decision rests on your personal preferences, your individual health circumstances, and the guidance of your healthcare provider. If you’re uncertain about including papaya in your diet, don’t hesitate to discuss your concerns with your healthcare professional. They can offer tailored advice that aligns with your unique pregnancy journey.