Pregnancy is an extraordinary time in a woman’s life that brings with it joy, anticipation, and a deep sense of responsibility. Taking care of your physical and emotional well-being is crucial for a healthy pregnancy and the well-being of your baby. In this article, we will explore nine essential tips that can help you maintain a healthy and happy pregnancy journey.

Eat a Balanced and Nutritious Diet

During pregnancy, it is essential to nourish your body with a well-balanced and nutritious diet. Focus on consuming a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats. Include foods rich in folic acid, iron, calcium, and omega-3 fatty acids. Avoid processed foods, excessive sugar, and foods that may pose a risk of foodborne illnesses.

Stay Hydrated

Proper hydration is crucial for a healthy pregnancy. Drink plenty of water throughout the day to help maintain amniotic fluid levels, aid digestion, prevent constipation, and support overall well-being. Aim for at least 8-10 glasses of water daily, and listen to your body’s thirst cues.

Take Prenatal Vitamins

Prenatal vitamins play a vital role in supporting your nutritional needs during pregnancy. They help fill any gaps in your diet and ensure adequate intake of essential nutrients like folic acid, iron, and calcium. Consult your healthcare provider for a suitable prenatal vitamin recommendation and take them as prescribed.

Proper Medical Care

During pregnancy, proper medical care is crucial to monitor the health of both the mother and the baby. Choosing the best IVF center in Mohali and the best maternity hospital in Chandigarh is the first step towards receiving excellent prenatal care. These institutions offer a range of services, including routine check-ups, ultrasound scans, and specialized care tailored to your unique needs.

Exercise Regularly

With your healthcare provider’s approval, engaging in regular exercise can benefit both you and your baby. Exercise helps maintain a healthy weight, improves circulation, boosts mood, and prepares your body for labor. Opt for low-impact exercises like walking, swimming, prenatal yoga, or aerobics classes designed for pregnant women.

Prioritize Sleep and Rest

Adequate rest and sleep are crucial during pregnancy. Aim for 7-9 hours of quality sleep each night. Use supportive pillows to find comfortable sleeping positions. Listen to your body’s cues and take breaks when needed during the day. Proper rest helps manage fatigue, promotes physical and emotional well-being, and supports the baby’s development.

Attend Regular Prenatal Check-ups

Regular prenatal check-ups are essential for monitoring your health and your baby’s well-being. Attend all scheduled appointments with your healthcare provider, and follow their recommendations for tests, screenings, and vaccinations. These check-ups allow for early detection of potential complications and ensure appropriate medical care throughout pregnancy.

Manage Stress and Seek Support

Pregnancy can be accompanied by various emotions and stress. It is important to manage stress and seek support when needed. Engage in activities that help you relax, such as meditation, deep breathing exercises, or prenatal yoga. Seek support from your partner, family, and friends. Consider joining prenatal support groups or talking to a counselor or therapist experienced in pregnancy-related concerns.

Educate Yourself and Attend Prenatal Classes

Empower yourself with knowledge about pregnancy, childbirth, and newborn care. Attend prenatal classes offered by healthcare providers or community centers. These classes provide valuable information about labor, breathing techniques, breastfeeding, and postpartum care. They also offer an opportunity to connect with other expectant parents and build a support network.

Practice Self-Care

Taking care of your emotional and physical well-being is vital during pregnancy. Practice self-care by indulging in activities that bring you joy and relaxation. Read books, listen to calming music, take warm baths, pamper yourself with prenatal massages, or engage in hobbies that help you unwind. Prioritizing self-care nurtures your overall well-being and prepares you for the journey of motherhood.

Final Words

Ultimately, a healthy pregnancy requires a holistic approach that addresses your physical, emotional, and mental well-being. Embrace this special time, listen to your body’s needs, and trust your instincts. With proper care and nurturing, you are on the path to a healthy and fulfilling pregnancy journey.

Remember, the content provided in this article is for informational purposes only and should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult your healthcare provider for personalized guidance based on your circumstances. If you live in Chandigarh, then find the best maternity hospital in Chandigarh or Mohali for your happy pregnancy. You can also opt for Dr. Sodhi’s Healthcare for normal delivery and for high-risk pregnancy. Dr. Lavleen Kaur Sodhi has been running this maternity hospital and IVF centre in Mohali since 2007. She is an experienced gynaecology in Tricity and offers the best fertility treatments in the area.

Every expecting mother dreams of having a safe and sound delivery process. Although many factors contribute to this vision. But one of the most important things that take you a step closer is identifying the best maternity hospital in Mohali. Are you also in this phase of your maternity planning? If so, here are some pro tips to smoothen this process. 

Start with the Basics

Let’s start the process with the basics. For instance, insurance, distance, condition of the road, etc. First of all, tick the best hospitals in maternity in Tricity that accept your insurance. Talk to your insurance provider for admission coverage as well. 

Moreover, check the distance of the hospital from your home. Also, consider its distance from your and your partner’s offices. Pick the right hospital that accepts your insurance plan and is located at a reachable distance from you.  

High-Risk OB Services

Some factors may lead to a high-risk pregnancy. For instance, being underweight or overweight, getting pregnant after 35, having multiple babies, etc. Some medical conditions like blood pressure, diabetes, autoimmune disorders, and cancer can also increase the chances of having high-risk pregnancies. 

So, consider going for a hospital that offers high-risk OB services. It can help you manage the above-mentioned and other unexpected circumstances better. You should make a personal visit to the hospital and meet the gynecologist to understand about their OB services. You can also meet the staff to understand how experienced and well-equipped they are to handle high-risk births and prevent potential complications. 

Hospital Reputation

You have checked the basics and high-risk OB services of the top maternity hospitals of Mohali on your list. Great. It’s now time to check the reputation of these hospitals. And the best way to do that is by visiting their websites and reading the patient reviews. 

Websites will help you learn the qualifications of the doctors and surgeons and the pre and post-natal facilities offered by the hospital. On the other hand, reviews will give you real-time exposure to the actual experiences of the mothers who delivered their babies there. This simple tip will take you a step closer to identifying the top motherhood hospital in Mohali. 

Facilities like NICU and Adult ICU

In the majority of cases, doctors don’t feel the need to keep the baby in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU). But ensuring that your maternity hospital is prepared for any last-minute emergency is still crucial. 

A well-equipped NICU and an adult ICU can help ensure the 100% well-being of the mother and the child. You can get all the relevant details from the hospital’s helpdesk. If you live in Chandigarh or a nearby area, then you can visit Dr Sodhi’s Healthcare Multispeciality Hospital for pregnancy. It is one of the best maternity hospitals in Mohali and Chandigarh, with top-class NICU facilities.

Check Vaginal Vs. C-Section Delivery Rate

Are you looking for the best maternity hospital in Mohali for normal delivery? You see, every expecting mother prefers a normal vaginal delivery. But, at times, some last-minute complications can compel the doctor to perform a C-section. This decision varies from patient to patient. However, C-section deliveries include additional risks like blood clots, infection, reaction to anesthesia, or even bleeding. 

Therefore, checking the rate of C-section deliveries in your list of hospitals is crucial. If you find a hospital where C-section deliveries exceed vaginal deliveries, your chances of having one also increase. What should you do in such a case? You can talk to the doctor and discuss your chances of having a normal delivery. Or you may move on to check this rate with the other hospitals. 

Check Maternity Accommodation

Expecting mothers have to spend some days and nights in their maternity hospital, pre and post-delivery. It calls for the need to check the maternity accommodation offered by a hospital. Here are the top things to keep in mind in this process:

• Check the range of accommodation options you will get. For instance, private rooms, dual sharing rooms, or general wards. 
• Compare their prices and make a wise decision. 
• Also, check if the hospital allows or provides accommodation for the attendants. For example, some hospitals offer rollaway beds, while some may allow bringing inflatable mattresses inside the rooms. 
• You should also check other amenities like washrooms, TV, breastfeeding classes, easy and safe postpartum exercise classes, etc. It will help ensure complete rest for new mothers. 
• Apart from this, check if the hospital allots a nurse to care for the mother and newborn. 
• Last but not least, visit the cafeteria. Check if it offers 24*7 services and can customize orders. Ask the hospital authorities if homemade food is allowed inside hospital premises.

24 Hours Services

Pregnancy is a crucial and unpredictable time. Sudden labour pains, cramps, bleeding, or water discharge are some emergencies that need immediate medical attention. Therefore, selecting a maternity hospital that offers 24-hour emergency services is crucial. 

In addition, check if an on-call gynecologist or pediatrician is available at the hospital. Also, understand the stand-by time a doctor takes to attend the emergency cases. 

And That’s a Wrap!

So, it was all about selecting the best IVF centre in Chandigarh or tricity. You see, delivering a child is a crucial process. Therefore, you should not leave any stone unturned to make this experience safe and pleasant for you and your loved ones. Speak to your friends, meet doctors, visit hospitals, and take every possible step to make this journey comfortable and memorable. 

The ovarian cyst is a common health condition in which one often experiences little to no discomfort at all. Thankfully these cysts are not harmful. Moreover, within a few months, most cysts disappear without therapy. 

Yet, taking this condition lightly is not recommended. Consulting the best gynecologist in Chandigarh and undergoing regular pelvic examinations can help safeguard your health. Keep reading; as we shed light on ovarian cysts’ types, causes, and symptoms in this post. 

What is Ovarian Cyst?

Ovarian cysts are small blisters filled with fluid. They usually develop in one of the two ovaries. Most ovarian cysts happen due to hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle. They settle down naturally over time. However, you should still consult the best gynecologist in Mohali to monitor their size and growth. 

Types of Ovarian Cysts?

There are different types of cysts in ovaries. Let us have a look at them:

Functional Cysts

They are the most common ovarian cysts that are usually not harmful. Also known as simple cysts, functional cysts develop during the ovulation cycle. They usually shrink within 60 days without any treatment. However, you should seek your doctor’s opinion in this regard. Functional cysts are of two types –  Follicular cysts and Corpus Luteum cysts.

1. Follicular Cysts – An egg sometimes breaks off from its follicle midway through the menstrual cycle. After that, the egg descends into a fallopian tube. When the follicle doesn’t break, a follicular cyst forms. It keeps its egg inside and grows instead of releasing it. 
2. Corpus Luteum Cysts – When a follicle contracts after releasing its egg and starts to make estrogen and progesterone. These hormones help in the conception process. At times, the egg’s original entrance can occasionally become blocked. It leads to fluid collection in the corpus luteum. Over time, it turns into a corpus luteum cyst. 

Other Cysts

Not every ovarian cyst is formed in response to the menstrual cycle. Although these cysts aren’t always harmful, you should get them checked with the top gynecologist in Mohali. Here are their types:

• Cystadenomas – These cysts develop on the surface of the ovary. Moreover, they are filled with mucus-like, thick fluid. 
• Teratomas (Dermoid Cysts) – Teratomas cysts are formed of cells that make different types of tissues in our body. For instance, cells of teeth, skin, hair, and brain. 
• Endometriomas – This type of cyst is made with endometrial tissues. It is the same tissue that women bleed during periods. 
• Ovarian Cancer Cysts – These cysts or tumors comprise solid masses of cancerous cells. Doctors usually recommend ovarian cyst surgery in this case. 

Causes of Ovarian Cysts

What causes an ovarian cyst? According to the top gynecologist in Chandigarh, here are the top causes of ovarian cyst:

• Abnormal Cell Reproduction – Unusual cell reproduction is one of the major causes of ovarian cysts. It leads to the formation of Cystadenomas and dermoid cysts. 
• Endometriosis – It is a condition where the endometrium, the tissue that lines the womb, develops in other organs. For instance, in the fallopian tubes, ovaries, bladder, intestine, vagina, or rectum. It leads to the development of blood-filled cysts in ovaries. This condition is also known as PCOS – Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. 
• PID – Pelvic Inflammatory Disease is a pelvic infection that spreads to the ovaries, leading to cyst formations. 

Symptoms of Ovarian Cysts

Although most cases are asymptomatic, large or severe ovarian cysts show the following symptoms:

• Pelvic Pain – What is the ovarian cyst pain location? The pain will start below the belly button extending to either side of the body. You may experience occasional pelvic pain spells. They will go on their own without any medication. The intensity can be in the range of mild to excruciating.
• Heaviness – A constant feeling of heaviness or pressure in the abdomen or belly can also indicate the presence of ovarian cysts. 
• Bloating – Sometimes, ovarian cysts make your lower belly feel bloated or puffy. It usually happens on the side where the cyst is located. Moreover, you can also feel puffiness in this area. 

When Should you See a Doctor?

Consult the best doctor in Mohali on experiencing these symptoms. Moreover, if you reside in Chandigarh, here are the tips to find the best gynecologist in Chandigarh.

• Severe, sudden, and continuous pelvic or abdominal pain.
• High fever coupled with vomiting or nausea
• Signs of shock. For instance, rapid breathing, clammy skin, chills, weakness, or light-headedness. 

Who is at Risk?

Ideally, any woman with ovaries is vulnerable to developing cysts in ovaries. However, the likelihood increases with these factors:

• Age – Women in their reproductive age and yet to attain menopause are at a higher risk of developing ovarian cysts. 
• Family History – You are also at a higher risk of having cysts in ovaries if you have a family history of it. 
• Previous Case – Ovarian cysts tend to recur over time. So, if you had it in the past, the chances of its relapse are higher. 
• Pregnancy Status – Many women also develop ovarian cysts during pregnancy. Moreover, if you are planning a pregnancy in your late 30s, consult your doctor to know how to prevent the formation of ovarian cysts. 
• Current Health Conditions – Women with hormone problems, endometriosis, etc., are at a higher risk of getting cysts in ovaries.

What size of Ovarian Cyst is Dangerous?

According to the top doctors in Mohali, ovarian cysts that size 5 cm to 10 cm usually need medical attention. The situation should be carefully monitored in women of reproductive age because these cysts can mutate into corpus luteum cysts and polycystic ovaries. However, the cysts’ size cannot predict whether it is benign or cancerous. 

Summing Up!

The ovarian cyst is a very common health condition that is usually not harmful. Although there are no tried and tested ways to prevent the occurrence of ovarian cysts, regular pelvic screenings help diagnose abnormalities faster. 

You should keep a check on your menstrual cycle. Besides, any abnormal or uncalled-for symptoms should be discussed with the doctor immediately. Consulting the best gynecologist in Mohali to learn about the right ovarian cyst treatment for you. 

Infertility is a common problem that affects both men and women worldwide. In fact, in India alone, around 10 to 14% of couples get affected by infertility. Its prevalence has made it tough for many couples to start a new family. 

Now, there can be many reasons behind infertility in couples. However, in men, the most common causes include low sperm production, any blockages that inhibit sperm delivery, or abnormal sperm function. Some other causes can be injuries, chronic diseases, or even lifestyle choices.

Fortunately, there are ways to increase sperm count. And that’s by increasing your activity level, modifying your diet and reducing stress. If you’re wondering about foods to add to your diet for increased sperm count, then here are the ones you must add:

Note: These food options are not any replacement for your medicines and treatment. Before adding anything to your diet, it’s best to consult a healthcare professional. You must find the best gynaecologist to help you with the overall infertility treatment.

Fruits and Vegetables

There’s no doubt that fruits and vegetables are extremely important to live a healthy life. However, their role in increasing sperm count is just as crucial. There are several fruits that are rich in essential vitamins, natural antioxidants, and folate that may act as a supportive element in your male fertility diet. 

Guava, for example, is a rich source of Vitamin C and antioxidants that can help to increase sperm motility and morphology. It can also improve sperm count and reduce deformed sperm cells. Similarly, Bell peppers, which are rich in Vitamin C, E, B6, and folate, contribute to healthy sperm parameters like sperm count and motility.

There are several other fruits and vegetables that are important for a male fertility diet like:  

• Bananas
• Blueberries
• Avocados
• Tomatoes
• Pomegranates
• Orange
• Kiwi
• Strawberries
• Mango
• Asparagus
• Carrots 
• Spinach and other green leafy vegetables 

As these fruits and vegetables are rich in essential nutrients, they are ideal for keeping the sperm free from chromosomal abnormalities. You can call them superfoods that increase sperm volume and add them to your diet. 

Walnuts

When it comes to Indian food to increase sperm count, walnuts top the list for their protein and healthy fats. Walnuts can significantly increase sperm motility and morphology, thereby contributing to a successful pregnancy in a couple.

Not just that, the healthy fats in the walnut can produce cell membranes for sperm cells and increase the blood supply to the testicles. All in all, these functions can contribute to good male fertility and reduce toxins in the bloodstream. You can consume a small bowl or 2.5 ounces of walnut for better sperm vitality.

Dark Chocolate 

Dark chocolate is one of the most significant foods to help with both male and female infertility, as it’s rich in antioxidants, fibre, iron, and other nutrients. It helps with hormonal balance and ensures good integrity of sperm and female eggs. Additionally, dark chocolate helps to improve sperm count for men. That’s due to the presence of L- Arginine, a type of enzyme, within the same.

Note that the darker the chocolate is, the better for your fertility diet. So, it’s recommended to consume 85% bittersweet dark chocolate for the best results. You can consume a small square or two of dark chocolate to get the benefits for your fertility issues. 

Garlic

Garlic is one of the superfoods to increase male fertility and ensure good blood flow in the body. It boosts sperm production and improves testosterone levels thanks to its antioxidant properties. The best thing about garlic is that it’s rich in selenium and Vitamin B6, both of which are responsible for producing healthy sperm. 

You may consume about 1 to 2 cloves of garlic for two months. It can significantly increase the sperm in the semen and improve your physical strength. You can also add crushed garlic to salads or make honey-garlic tea as a fertility drink.

Fish

Fatty fish is one of the common Indian foods to increase sperm count and help with fertility. As fishes are high in omega-3 fatty acids, they can help to increase the overall sperm health of men. It can be consumed as an alternative to red or processed meat for a healthy option in the diet. 

Now when it comes to fish varieties that can contribute to fertility, you can try out options like salmon and sardines. Both of these varieties are rich in Vitamin B12, arginine, and aspartic acid, all of which are responsible for better sperm count and motility. 

Omega-3 fatty acid is also responsible for increasing blood flow in the genitals. It can further help you to stay active during intercourse and have a healthy sex life.

Besides fish, you can try fish oil supplements. It can ensure higher sperm count and increased hormone levels for better fertility. 

Oysters

Oysters are a rich source of Vitamin B12, Vitamin D, Zinc, and Selenium. All these nutrients help to increase sperm count and ensure good motility. In fact, oysters are commonly called aphrodisiacs. This means it stimulates sexual desire and boosts sexual performance in men. As Oysters contain Vitamin B12, it also supports adequate sperm development. 

If you aren’t fond of the oyster’s taste, you can try other food that’s rich in zinc, like poultry meat, beef, eggs, beans, grains, etc. You can make curries with these options for Indian food to increase sperm count.

What Foods Help in Fast Production of Sperm?

To pace up your sperm production, you can try out some super food as follows:

• Indian Gooseberries
• Liver
• Tomatoes
• Brazil nuts
• Pomegranates

Meanwhile, you should stay away from fried foods and soy products to increase your sperm count. Also, limit alcohol consumption to moderate levels, so you can see faster effects. You must also satisfy your unhealthy food cravings with healthy options. 

To Conclude

So these were some of the foods to increase male fertility. You can add these food options to your diet and improve your sperm count. Make sure to follow a healthy lifestyle along with a good diet, and you may see the difference soon.

The feeling of holding the apple of your eye for the first time is beyond words. It is one of the most joyous and significant life occurrences for a new mom who eagerly awaits this moment. However, even though having a new infant can be exciting and rewarding, there are also times when it can be challenging and stressful. 

This phase is called postpartum depression or baby blues. It is a mild sadness or loneliness episode that can last a few days or a week. The guidance of the best gynaecologist in Mohali and the support of your loved ones can immensely help during this time. In the meanwhile, here are some ways to handle Postpartum depression. 

Is Postpartum Depression or Anxiety Real?

Postpartum stress or depression is a common condition that may develop after having a child. It usually begins to affect within the first three weeks of the delivery. Women who undergo this condition might feel hopeless, sad, depressed, or guilty for not caring enough for their infant. 

Moreover, second-time mothers can also suffer from postpartum depression. The good news is that this condition is completely manageable under the consultation of the top gynaecologist in Chandigarh. Their expertise and experience can help mothers cope with postpartum stress or anxiety. 

Symptoms of Postpartum Mental Issues

According to the top gynaecologist in Mohali, the common symptoms indicate the presence of postpartum mental issues in a new mother. 

• Irritability, anger, or restlessness
• Sadness or a sudden feeling of crying 
• Guilt or worthlessness
• Over-concerned about the safety of the infant
• No or little energy
• Fear of hurting the baby 
• Unhealthy eating habits
• Chest pain, headache, rapid heartbeat, or tingling sensation in feet or hands
• Irregular sleeping patterns
• Trouble recalling things or making decisions
• Not feeling like doing any activity whole day

Ways To Handle Postpartum Depression

Here are some useful tips to help you overcome postpartum mental issues.

Maintaining a Healthy Diet

Research studies reveal that what you eat significantly impacts your emotional health. So, consuming nutritious food can help improve your mood and make you happy. For instance, you can consume fermented foods like probiotics and yoghurt. Moreover, bananas, oats, berries, nuts and seeds, beans and lentils, and coffee can also help supply relevant vitamins and minerals to the body. Avoid eating processed or junk food. Instead, you can satisfy your unhealthy food cravings with these healthy options. 

Get Some “Me Time”

You might feel confined to nursing on the sofa. Your workload, household duties, or those of your older kids can also make you feel overburdened. Don’t try to handle these pressures alone; ask for assistance. For example, say yes to your family members’ offer of complimentary child care. Moreover, allow your partner or another responsible adult to watch the child for an hour or two. 

Setting aside time each week for “me time” could be beneficial. You can use this opportunity to unwind, even if you can only leave the house between nursing sessions. Take a walk, nap, do some easy and safe postpartum exercises, watch a video, or meditate. Experts call it one of the best ways to handle postpartum depression.

It’s Okay to Rest

New mothers often suffer from the guilt of resting or sleeping while the baby is awake. Are you also one of them? If so, please get yourself out of it as soon as possible. Do you know that the chances of postpartum depression are 3.34 times higher in women with poor sleep quality than others? It applies to mothers who sleep less than four hours at night. 

Infants usually do not sleep through the night when they are young. Therefore, you might find it beneficial to rest or get to bed early when the baby sleeps. Moreover, if breastfeeding, think about pumping a bottle so your partner can handle one or two overnight feedings. 

Source  

Avoid Isolation

The days might pass quickly, leaving you occasionally feeling alone. However, a Canadian Journal of Psychiatry study reveals that sharing emotions can improve mood and keep postpartum issues at bay. After frequently speaking with seasoned mothers who had previously experienced postpartum anxiety and depression, researchers found that women had lower levels of depression. 

This finding proves that the power of social interaction cannot be denied. So, try to get out and ask moms and other adults for help. You can also join online forums and social platforms to keep yourself busy and away from isolation. 

Create a Support Network

Sometimes, you are uncomfortable sharing your feelings with your family and friends. Creating a support network can help you immensely during this time. Many online and offline platforms can help you while you suffer from postpartum mental issues. For instance:

• Call the official postpartum depression hotline numbers for help.
• Join online forums to share what you are going through.
• Call your healthcare provider, gynaecologist, or obstetrician for guidance.
• Contact the healthcare services of your community.
• Chat online with other mothers on issues like postpartum depression, etc. 
• Reach out to other local support groups for assistance. 

It is one of the best ways to handle postpartum depression.

Who is at Risk?

Although postpartum depression can happen to anyone, some factors make you more prone to this condition. Make sure you share all the symptoms with your gynaecologist in such cases. 

• Having a family history of postpartum stress or depression
• Relationship or marital conflict
• Limited or no social support
• Uncertainty about the pregnancy
• Premature birth or ailments in the infant
• Mothers younger than 20 are usually at a higher risk of postpartum depression.
• Infants with special needs

Bottom Line

Postpartum mental issues usually go away within six to seven months, depending on diet, sleep, and lifestyle habits. However, if you experience spells of confusion, disorientation, or compulsive thoughts, call the best gynaecologist in Mohali immediately. 

You can effectively overcome these symptoms with the right medication and lifestyle changes. Last but not least, please understand that it is just a phase which shall pass soon. So concentrate on your mental well-being, indulge in creative activities, and cherish these moments with your baby. 

A high-risk pregnancy does not always mean your pregnancy will be more challenging than a low-risk one. However, it may sometimes mean you must consult the top gynaecologist in Mohali for more detailed and frequent monitoring. 

Whether this is your first or third pregnancy, hearing your doctor describe your pregnancy as high-risk can be frightening. However, “high-risk pregnancy” refers to a broad range of common pre-existential conditions you had before conceiving. Keep reading on to get all the facts about a high-risk pregnancy. 

Causes of High-Risk Pregnancy?

According to an experienced gynaecologist in Mohali, here are the top causes of high-risk pregnancy that you should know about:

• Age – Age can be vital in determining whether the pregnancy is high-risk. According to doctors, women under 17 or older than 35 are at a higher risk of having a high-risk pregnancy. Pregnancy during this age can lead to low birth weight, premature birth, preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, and caesarean birth. Consult the best gynaecologist in Chandigarh to know more about the High-risk pregnancy age.
• Weight – Women underweight or overweight during conception have a higher probability of high-risk pregnancy. An experienced gynaecologist can help you understand how to manage a healthy body weight. 
• Health Conditions – Certain health conditions also make women vulnerable to having a high-risk pregnancy. For instance, high blood pressure, depression, diabetes, thyroid, asthma, epilepsy, heart disorders, etc.
• Multiples – Compared to twin and singleton pregnancies, triplet pregnancies have a greater risk of foetal and maternal morbidity and complications. 
• Past Conditions – Women with severe issues during their previous pregnancies are also vulnerable to high-risk pregnancies. For instance, pregnancies like premature delivery or genetic defects in the infant. 
• Other Causes – Substance abuse, smoking, and alcohol can also increase your chances of high-risk pregnancy. Meet the top gynaecologist in Mohali to get the list of high-risk pregnancy conditions. It can immensely help!

Working with the top gynaecologist in the city is crucial to managing current and probable health issues if your pregnancy is labelled high-risk. 

When to See the Doctor?

Experienced gynaecologists in Chandigarh can help manage your high-risk pregnancy effectively. First, however, here are some high-risk pregnancy symptoms you must immediately bring to your doctor’s attention. if you live in Chandigarh or nearby areas, then you can visit Dr. Lavleen Kaurd Sodhi, she is expert in high-risk pregnancies and runs the best maternity hospital in tricity.

• Watery vaginal discharge
• Vaginal bleeding
• Cramping or pain in the lower abdomen
• Severe headaches
• Chills or fever
• Low fetal activity
• Burning sensation or pain while urinating
• Change in vision
• Severe, sudden swelling in hands, fingers, and face
• Persistent nausea or vomiting
• Dizziness
• Thoughts of harming the baby or yourself

How can you Promote a Healthy Pregnancy?

Stick to the fundamentals whether you know you’ll have a high-risk pregnancy or merely want to do everything possible to avoid one. For instance: 

• Take a Preconception Appointment – Consult your doctor if you plan to getting pregnant in your late 30s. Before getting pregnant, your doctor can advise you to take a daily prenatal supplement with folic acid. Moreover, try to maintain a healthy weight before you get pregnant. If you are undergoing treatment for any condition, your gynaecologist can customise your high-risk pregnancy treatment accordingly. Your doctor may also discuss the risks of having a child with genetic disorders. 
• Regular Prenatal Care – Prenatal visits are crucial as it helps the doctor to diagnose your and your child’s health. Your gynaecologist may also refer you to a maternal-fetal medicine or genetics expert for a detailed screening. 

• Avoid Risky Substances – Quitting consumption of illegal drugs, smoking, and alcohol can be one of the best things you can do for your high-risk pregnancy. Moreover, you can anytime go for counselling to manage your withdrawal symptoms. Apart from this, disclose all the medications and supplements you are currently taking to help your gynaecologist identify your most effective treatment plan. 
• Stay away from Infections – Some basic hygiene habits can help significantly manage high-risk pregnancies. For instance, avoid eating uncovered and street-side food or washing hands frequently. Eating raw vegetables, undercooked meat, and shellfish can also make you vulnerable to Toxoplasma gondii. Consider getting immunisations if your gynaecologist recommends it. 

High-Risk Pregnancy Diagnosis

Receiving thorough prenatal treatment at an early stage is essential. It is the greatest way to identify and treat a high-risk pregnancy. In addition, such pregnancies may require additional monitoring throughout your pregnancy. Here are some tests to ascertain if the pregnancy is high-risk:

• Targeted or Specialised Ultrasound – Gyneacologists sometimes recommend a specialised or targeted ultrasound. It is an imaging technology that uses high-frequency sound waves to develop images of the unborn baby. It helps in identifying suspected developmental issues.
• Prenatal Cell-Free DNA (cfDNA) Screening – In this process, DNA from the mother and the foetus is taken from a sample of the mother’s blood. The foetal DNA is then checked for the increased likelihood of particular chromosome issues.
• Invasive Genetic Screening – Your doctor may advise chorionic villus sampling (CVS) or amniocentesis. Your doctor will conduct an amniocentesis procedure here. The sample of the amniotic fluid, which surrounds and shields a developing infant during pregnancy, is taken from the uterus. This screening is usually performed after week 15 of pregnancy. It can effectively diagnose severe brain or spinal cord issues and specific genetic conditions (neural tube defects). 
• Ultrasound for Cervical Length – Your doctor can prescribe this ultrasound to measure your cervix’s length. It is a great way to check if you are at risk of having preterm labour. 
• Lab Tests – Regular urine tests can help identify UTIs and screen you for syphilis and HIV. 
• Biophysical Profile – This prenatal scan aims to examine a baby’s health. It might only entail an ultrasound to assess the health of the foetus or foetal heart rate monitoring based on the ultrasound results (nonstress test). 

Bottom Line

So, it was all about high-risk pregnancies, you should know. Feeling overwhelmed about it initially is completely natural. However, the best guidance and support can make things much safer and smoother. 

You should consult the best gynaecologist near you for a healthy delivery. Here’s how you can find the best gynaecologist in Chandigarh. Lastly, eat healthily, do light exercises, and maintain your weight, blood sugar, and blood pressure levels.