While some complications relate to health conditions that already exist before conception, others occur unexpectedly. Though most pregnancy complications are treatable, regular prenatal checkups help with the early detection and can reduce any further risk to both mother and baby.

Some of the common pregnancy complications include:

1. Miscarriage or pregnancy loss
2. Preeclampsia
3. Ectopic pregnancy
4. Gestational diabetes
5. Placental complications
6. Molar pregnancy
7. HELLP syndrome
8. Amniotic fluid complications
9. Preterm labor
10. Cervical insufficiency

1. Miscarriage:

In general, a miscarriage is defined as spontaneous abortion which is the unexpected end of pregnancy in the first 20 weeks. The most common type of miscarriage is the spontaneous pregnancy loss and it cannot be prevented. In some cases, a miscarriage happens even before a woman is aware of the pregnancy. However, the cause of a pregnancy loss  cannot be found in most cases.

Signs that might indicate a miscarriage can include vaginal spotting or bleeding, fluid or tissue passing from the vagina. Women who experience these signs during pregnancy should contact their doctor immediately. The common health conditions that can contribute to a miscarriage include chromosomal abnormalities, placenta problems, poor fetal growth, severe health issues of the mother and infection.

Read more about Miscarriage

2. Preeclampsia:

Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy complication that affects some women, usually during the second half of the pregnancy or immediately after the baby is delivered. It is characterized by high blood pressure, protein in the urine and severe fluid retention.

Though the exact cause of preeclampsia involves several various factors; it is believed that preeclampsia is caused by the decreased blood flow to the placenta, the organ that nourishes the fetus throughout the pregnancy. If left untreated, preeclampsia can lead to many other serious complications and in some cases, it can be life-threatening for mother or baby or both.

Read more about Preeclampsia

3. Ectopic Pregnancy:

A pregnancy is considered ectopic when the fertilized egg attaches in some place other than the uterus. Most of the ectopic pregnancies occur in fallopian tubes and hence it is known as tubal pregnancy. In rare cases, the fertilized egg implants in an ovary or the cervix or the belly.

It is difficult to spot an ectopic pregnancy as the symptoms are similar to that of a normal pregnancy.

If the fertilized egg keeps growing in the fallopian tube, it can damage the tube or other maternal structures. This can cause life-threatening blood loss. An ectopic pregnancy cannot be turned into a normal pregnancy. Hence, ectopic pregnancy needs a quick treatment to end it which can help preserve the chances of healthy pregnancies in future.

Read more about Ectopic Pregnancy

4. Gestational diabetes:

When women without diabetes develop high blood sugar levels during pregnancy, it is known as gestational diabetes. Women who develop gestational diabetes usually have no symptoms. But it can be diagnosed during routine pregnancy screening tests.

Women who are overweight or have a family history of type-2 diabetes or suffers from PCOS are at higher risk of developing gestational diabetes. Though, gestational diabetes usually goes away after the baby is born; it can increase the risk of pre-eclampsia, depression and need for c-section if remain untreated.

Read more about Gestational Diabetes

5. Placental complications:

The placenta is an organ that forms in the uterus during pregnancy, which nourishes and protects the fetus. Usually, the placenta gets attached to the uterine wall at the upper part. But, if there are any changes in its position, it can lead to complications in the pregnancy. The two types of placenta complications which may occur, include:

• Placenta Previa: It is a condition in which the placenta lies unusually in the lower part of the uterus, next to the cervix. Though placenta previa is not a problem in the early stage of pregnancy, it can cause complications if the placenta remains low as the pregnancy progresses. With ultrasound scans during mid-pregnancy, the position of the placenta can be observed. In a woman with placenta previa, the baby has to be delivered by c-section, as the placenta lies close to the cervix.
• Placental Abruption: Placental abruption is a condition in which the placenta prematurely separates from the uterus before the childbirth. If placenta detaches from the uterine wall, the fetus cannot get enough nutrients and oxygen. Vaginal bleeding is the main symptom of placental abruption. The larger the area that detaches from the uterine wall, the higher is the amount of bleeding. There is no treatment to either stop detaching the placenta or to reattach it. So, if a woman is diagnosed with this condition, she might get hospitalized or given bed rest, medication to lower the blood pressure and close monitoring of the mother and baby.

6. Molar pregnancy:

Molar pregnancy is an abnormal form of pregnancy in which an abnormal mass is formed inside the uterus after fertilization, instead of a normal embryo. A molar pregnancy can be of two types: complete and partial.

• Complete Molar Pregnancy: In a complete molar pregnancy, there is no development of the fetus at all. This occurs when an empty egg is fertilized by the sperm.  In this type of molar pregnancy, the placenta grows as in case of a normal pregnancy and produces the pregnancy hormone hCG, but there is no fetus developing inside.
• Partial Molar Pregnancy: In a partial molar pregnancy, the fetus develops but cannot survive. This type of molar pregnancy occurs when a mass develops that contains both an embryo and the abnormal cells. The development of the fetus is hindered by the rapid growth of abnormal cells which  does not support the survival of the fetus.

A molar pregnancy needs dilation and curettage (D&C) immediately, as the molar tissue continues to grow and can turn into cancer.

7. HELLP syndrome:

HELLP syndrome is a rare liver and blood clotting disorder that can affect women during pregnancy. It is most likely to occur immediately after the baby is delivered but can occur at any time after 20 weeks of pregnancy or even before in rare cases.

HELLP means – H for Hemolysis (break down of red blood cells in the blood), EL stands for elevated liver enzymes which is a sign of liver damage and LP stands for Low platelet count. HELLP syndrome is a more severe form of preeclampsia which can rapidly become life-threatening for both the mother and the baby. It may develop suddenly even before the high blood pressure is detected or it may develop without any symptoms. The symptoms of HELLP syndrome include nausea, vomiting, headache and upper abdominal pain.

8. Amniotic fluid complications:

Amniotic fluid is a liquid in the sac that surrounds the fetus during pregnancy. Too much or too little amount of amniotic fluid can lead to complications during pregnancy. If the amount of amniotic fluid is high, it increases the pressure on the uterus which can lead to preterm labour. Also, excess amniotic fluid can result in premature rupture of amniotic membranes, placental abruption and postpartum hemorrhage. And too little amniotic fluid can cause birth defects, growth retardation or stillbirth.

9. Preterm Labor:

A labor is considered a preterm, when it happens after 20 weeks and before 37 weeks of pregnancy. When a woman delivers her baby prior to 37 weeks, it is called a preterm birth and the baby is considered premature. Usually, a preterm labor is diagnosed when regular uterine contractions cause either dilation (opening) or effacement (thinning out) of the cervix.

The best way to treat preterm labor is to proceed with the delivery, even if the mother is not yet at her due date. A baby born prematurely will be at a higher risk for health problems, as the vital organs such as the lungs and brain are completely developed in the final weeks of the pregnancy.

Women are at a greater risk of having a preterm labor, if they have

• A history of recurrent miscarriages
• A history of preterm births
• An incompetent cervix
• Uterine fibroids
• Urinary tract Infections
• Inadequate care during pregnancy

If a woman experiences the symptoms of preterm labor, she would be given bed rest and medications to stop the contractions, which help to prevent preterm birth.

10. Cervical insufficiency:

ADuring pregnancy, the baby’s growth puts an extra pressure on the mother’s cervix. In rare cases, pressure increases to much extent for the cervix to handle, which causes the cervix to open before the baby is ready to born. This condition is known as an incompetent cervix or cervical insufficiency.

Cervical insufficiency is usually diagnosed by measuring the length of the cervix by performing an ultrasound. Women with this condition would be advised to get bed rest, prescribed with vaginal suppositories of the progesterone hormone and a procedure known as cerclage, if required. Cerclage is a minor surgery, in which the cervix is sewn closed in order to strengthen it and prevent miscarriage or premature delivery.

Citations:

• Pregnancy complications- https://www.womenshealth.gov/pregnancy/youre-pregnant-now-what/pregnancy-complications
• Complications during pregnancy- https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/pregnancy-complications
• Evidence over hope for pregnancy complications- http://www.bloodjournal.org/content/119/14/3192
• 4 Common Pregnancy Complications- https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/healthy-woman/sexual-reproductive/4-common-pregnancy-complications
• What are some common complications of pregnancy?- https://www.nichd.nih.gov/health/topics/pregnancy/conditioninfo/complications

“Female infertility” is referred as a condition in women which makes it harder for them to conceive. This can be due to the problems related to either the egg production or abnormalities in their reproductive system which declines the possibility of fertilization. To keep it simple, a woman who is having trouble getting pregnant is known to struggle with infertility. Female fertility can have a wide range of causes. Here are some causes that are keeping women from getting pregnant:

• Ovulation disorders
• Blocked fallopian tubes
• Endometriosis
• Uterine abnormalities
• Pelvic area abnormalities
• Poor egg quality

Ovulation Disorders:

Ovulation is the process of releasing an egg from an ovary, usually once in every menstrual cycle. Several glands and their hormones work together for a menstrual cycle to take place. Most of the women who struggle with infertility are often diagnosed with ovulation disorders. Types of ovulation disorders that affect fertility in women include:

• Irregular Ovulation
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
• Premature Ovarian Failure
• Hypothalamic Dysfunction
• Excess Prolactin

Irregular Ovulation:

The absence or irregular release of an egg by the ovaries is known as irregular ovulation. Hormonal changes are usually the cause of irregular ovulation. Abnormal menstrual patterns indicate the irregularity in the ovulation, that affects women’s fertility.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS):

PCOS is the most common ovarian disorders that affect female fertility factor. It causes hormonal imbalance and affects ovulation. PCOS is often associated with irregular periods, unwanted body hair, acne, insulin resistance and obesity.

Premature Ovarian Failure:

Premature Ovarian Failure (POF) is also known as Primary Ovarian Insufficiency (POI). It is an ovulation disorder in which a woman’s ovaries stop working before the age of 40. In some cases, it can develop as early as teenage years. Women with POF may have only limited or no eggs or have eggs that do not develop properly. Though it is not similar to premature menopause in which periods stop before the woman turns 40, women may experience menopause-like symptoms and fertility issues.

Hypothalamic dysfunction:

The pituitary gland produces two hormones, FSH and LH which are responsible for stimulating the ovulation each month. When the production of these hormones is disrupted, ovulation gets affected which can result in irregular or absence of periods. Excess physical or emotional stress, overweight, low body weight, significant weight gain or loss are some of the factors that can disrupt the production of FSH & LH.

Excess prolactin:

Prolactin is another hormone produced by the pituitary gland. When this hormone is produced in excess amounts, the production of estrogen tends to decrease and may cause infertility. The improper functioning of the pituitary gland, medications for other diseases can cause excess production of prolactin.

Blocked Fallopian Tubes:

The fallopian tubes are the pathways in which the egg travels from the ovaries down into the uterus. They have an utmost importance in the process of fertilization. The egg released from the ovary gets fertilized with the sperm on its journey down the fallopian tubes. Hence, when the fallopian tubes are blocked, the egg cannot reach the uterus which prevents it from being fertilized and eventually pregnancy. Either single tubal blockage or both tubes blockage can equally affect the fertility. Blocked fallopian tubes are one of the main cause of female infertility and are also known as “Tubal infertility.”

Endometriosis:

Endometriosis is a painful disorder in which the endometrial tissue that usually lines inside the uterus, grows outside the uterus. This abnormal growth of the endometrial tissue may damage the fallopian tubes and the ovaries which can obstruct the egg and the sperm from uniting. Endometriosis can also affect the fertility in less direct ways, such as causing damage to the sperm or egg. Endometriosis is considered to be one of the top three causes of female infertility.

Continue reading about “Endometriosis”

Uterine Abnormalities:

A woman’s chances of getting pregnant are often affected if she has uterine abnormalities. Women with uterine abnormalities can still struggle with fertility issues, even if they undergo infertility treatments to increase their chances of conceiving successfully.

For a healthy conception and birth to take place, the uterus must be able to accept the embryo implantation and support the growth of fetus throughout the pregnancy. But in some cases of infertility, uterine abnormalities such as uterine fibroids, poor endometrial lining, endometriosis or some birth defects can adversely affect the uterus. Even if a woman with uterine abnormalities conceives, her pregnancy might end in miscarriage. Though uterine abnormalities are often treatable, they require the attention of experts who are specialized in female fertility.

Pelvic Area Abnormalities:

Similar to uterine abnormalities, pelvic area abnormalities can be a cause of female infertility. The abnormalities in the pelvic area can be anatomical problems either with the vagina or cervix, adhesions (bands of scar tissue which can stick internal organs together) and damage to the pelvic cavity. In general, pelvic adhesions can be the result of various reasons such as any kind of pelvic or abdominal infection, endometriosis and after a surgery to the pelvic or abdominal area. Usually, pelvic adhesions develop without exhibiting any symptoms and often diagnosed after a woman begins struggling with infertility issues.

Poor Egg Quality:

Egg quality is one of the cornerstones of healthy fertility. The quality of eggs plays an important role in the process of fertilization. In order for a woman to get pregnant, her eggs must be healthy and of good quality. In most cases of infertility among women, poor egg quality might be one of the reasons. The quality and quantity of eggs produced by the ovaries decline significantly with age. Whether fertilization and implantation occurs or not depends on the quality of a woman’s egg. But, this doesn’t mean that a woman with poor egg quality can never become pregnant. With medications and treatments, the quality of the eggs can be improved. It is always better to get the investigations to determine the quality of eggs when a woman is trying to conceive.

Citations:

• Female infertility: causes and treatment http://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0140673694929416
• Female infertility in mice lacking connexin 37 https://www.nature.com/articles/385525a0
• Smoking and female infertility: a systematic review and meta-analysis https://academic.oup.com/humrep/article/13/6/1532/815813
• Estimation of the prevalence and causes of infertility in western Siberia https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2305650/

What is preeclampsia? | Symptoms | Causes | Risk Factors | Complications | Diagnosis | Treatment | Prevention | Pregnancy-after-preeclampsia

What is preeclampsia?

Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that is characterized by high blood pressure, protein in the urine and severe fluid retention. It can also cause damage to other organs, most often the liver and the kidneys. If not treated, preeclampsia can lead to many other serious complications and in some cases, it can be life-threatening.

Symptoms of preeclampsia:

       In most cases, preeclampsia develops without any noticeable symptoms, especially in the early stages. And, even if the symptoms are developed, some of the symptoms of preeclampsia are similar to that of normal pregnancy such as swelling, nausea and weight gain.

But there are some signs of unusual swelling which need immediate medical attention, these include:

• Swelling of the face or puffiness around eyes
• Swelling of the hands
• Sudden or excessive swelling of the feet or ankles

In addition, other possible symptoms of preeclampsia may include:

• Excess protein in the urine
• Persistent headaches
• Changes in the vision, blurred vision or light sensitivity
• Intense pain or tenderness in the upper abdomen
• Shortness of breath, due to fluid accumulation in the lungs
• A decrease in the levels of blood platelets
• Decreased urine output

Causes of preeclampsia:

       The exact cause of preeclampsia involves several various factors. But, it is believed that preeclampsia is caused by the decreased blood flow to the placenta, the organ that nourishes the fetus throughout the pregnancy. This could happen if the placenta does not implant properly in the lining of the uterus.

Also, early in pregnancy, new blood vessels are developed to efficiently send blood to the placenta. If these newly formed blood vessels don’t develop properly as they should or function properly, the amount of blood flow through them to the placenta will be limited.

Some potential causes may include:

• Genetic factors
• Poor nutrition
• Autoimmune disorders

Risk factors of preeclampsia:

       Preeclampsia is more common during a first pregnancy. Women who have had preeclampsia, are more likely to develop it again in later pregnancies. While it can occur in women who never had high blood pressure before, the other risk factors may include:

• Having a personal or family history of preeclampsia
• Having a history of chronic hypertension
• Being pregnant for the first time
• Being overweight or obese
• Carrying more than one baby (twins, triplets or more)
• Being younger than 20 or older than 35
• Having interval between pregnancies as short as less than two years and as long as 10 years or more
• Having In Vitro fertilization
• Having a history of certain conditions such as diabetes, kidney disease, lupus or rheumatoid arthritis

Complications of preeclampsia:

       If preeclampsia is left undiagnosed or not treated properly, it can lead to serious complications both for the mother and baby. In some cases, it may also lead to life-threatening conditions. Some of the complications of preeclampsia include:

• Placental abruption
• HELLP syndrome
• Eclampsia (Seizures)
• Organ damage
• Cardiovascular disease
• Fetal growth restriction
• Preterm birth

Placental abruption:

              Placental abruption is a condition in which the placenta gets separated from the inner wall of the uterus before delivery. Preeclampsia increases the risk of placental abruption and severe abruption can cause heavy bleeding, which can be life-threatening for both the mother and the baby.

HELLP syndrome:

             HELLP syndrome is a rare liver and blood clotting disorder that can affect women during pregnancy. It is most likely to occur immediately after the baby is delivered but can occur at any time after 20 weeks of pregnancy or even before in rare cases.

HELLP means – H for Hemolysis (break down of red blood cells in the blood), EL stands for elevated liver enzymes which is a sign of liver damage and LP stands for Low platelet count. HELLP syndrome is a more severe form of preeclampsia which can rapidly become life-threatening for both the mother and the baby. It may develop suddenly even before the high blood pressure is detected or it may develop without any symptoms. The symptoms of HELLP syndrome include nausea, vomiting, headache and upper abdominal pain.

Eclampsia (Seizures):

            When preeclampsia isn’t controlled, eclampsia can develop. Since there are no warning signs or symptoms, it is difficult to predict the severity of preeclampsia that can lead to eclampsia. Though the fits usually last less than a minute when a woman develops eclampsia, it can have serious consequences for both mother and baby.

Organ damage:

Preeclampsia can lead to damage to other organs such as

• Pulmonary oedema – Fluid builds up in and around the lungs which affect the proper functioning of the lungs by preventing them from absorbing oxygen.
• Kidney failure – Impaired kidney functioning affects the filtering of waste products from the blood. This causes the toxins and fluids to build up in the body.
• Liver failure – Liver plays an important role in performing vital functions of the body which includes digestion, production of bile and removing toxins. Any disruption to the functions of the liver can be fatal.

Cardiovascular disease:

             Preeclampsia can increase the risk of heart and blood vessel disease in future. The risk is higher in women who had preeclampsia more than once or if they had a preterm delivery. In order to minimize the risk, one should maintain a healthy weight, have a balanced diet and stay away from the possible risk factors.

Fetal growth restriction:

         Preeclampsia affects the blood vessels that carry blood to the placenta. When the placenta doesn’t receive enough blood, the baby may not receive adequate blood and oxygen and nutrients. This results in delayed growth which is referred as fetal growth restriction, low birth weight or preterm birth.

Preterm birth:

            In severe cases of preeclampsia, the baby will be delivered early to minimize the risks for both mother and baby which are referred as preterm births. Prematurity can lead to serious complications such as breathing difficulties as the lungs aren’t developed completely. So, in case of preterm births babies are monitored and treated in neonatal intensive care units till their condition becomes stable.

Diagnosis of Preeclampsia:

            During regular prenatal checkups, every women’s blood pressure and urine are screened. If the doctor finds that the blood pressure is elevated or protein in the urine, the woman will be suggested some tests to confirm the suspicion of preeclampsia. These tests may include:

Blood tests: The doctor prescribes liver function tests, kidney function tests and also measures the count of blood platelets.

Urine analysis: To measure the amount of protein in the urine.

Fetal Ultrasound: It is suggested to monitor the baby’s growth closely. During an ultrasound, the images of the baby are created which helps the doctor to estimate fetal weight and the amount of fluid in the uterus.

Treatment for Preeclampsia:

          The only cure for preeclampsia is to deliver the baby. But, if a woman is diagnosed with preeclampsia in her early pregnancy and delivering the baby isn’t the best thing; then the treatment depends on how severe it is, how far along she is, and how the baby is doing.

As women with preeclampsia are at a higher risk of seizures, placental abruption, stroke and severe bleeding until the raised blood pressure falls to normal, they often need frequent and more prenatal visits, blood tests, and ultrasounds than expected in a normal pregnancy.

Based on the severity of preeclampsia and the baby’s condition, the treatment may include:

• Medication
• Hospitalization
• Delivery

Medication:

In case of mild preeclampsia without severe features, the doctor may prescribe medication to,

• Lower the blood pressure
• Improve liver and platelet function
• Prevent seizure and other complications
• Help baby’s lungs become more mature

Hospitalization:

       In case of severe preeclampsia or if the baby has not developed enough to deliver, the woman needs to be hospitalized. During hospitalization, the doctor may perform regular biophysical profiles that help in monitoring baby’s well being and measure the volume of amniotic fluid.

Also, the blood pressure of the mother will be monitored thoroughly and she might be given intravenous medications to lower the blood pressure it is too high.

Delivery:

          If a woman is diagnosed with preeclampsia near the end of her pregnancy or the baby has developed enough, usually 37 weeks or later; the doctor may induce labour or perform a c-section. In severe cases, waiting for labour to start by itself is not recommended by considering the baby’s gestational age or readiness of the cervix. So, delivering the baby is the only safe option to reduce the risks of preeclampsia both for the mother and the baby.

Though preeclampsia usually improves soon after the baby is delivered, in some cases complications can develop a few days later. So, the doctor may suggest both mother and baby stay in the hospital after delivery to monitor their condition.

If in severe cases of preeclampsia the baby is born prematurely i.e., delivered before the due date, the baby will be admitted to a neonatal intensive care unit. These units have the features that can replicate the functions of a mother’s womb and allow baby to develop completely.

Prevention of Preeclampsia:

       There is no sure way to prevent preeclampsia. But a possible way to prevent preeclampsia is to keep the blood pressure under control. If a woman has chronic high blood pressure, she should lower the blood pressure before pregnancy by working on the factors that contribute to high blood pressure and follow the diet and exercise instructions by the doctor.

Some of the natural ways to control the high blood pressure include:

• Having a diet low in sodium and rich in fruits and vegetables
• Drinking 6 – 8 glasses of water per day
• Avoiding fried and junk food
• Getting enough rest
• Regular exercise
• Avoid beverages that contain caffeine
• Avoid alcohol consumption

How to plan the next pregnancy after preeclampsia?

       When a woman who has a history of preeclampsia thinks about her next pregnancy, the biggest question would probably be “will this happen again?”. And the answer is women who develop preeclampsia earlier in pregnancy and severely are more likely to develop it in their subsequent pregnancy.

So, when women who had a previous history of preeclampsia are planning for their next pregnancy, they should discuss their medical history and about previous pregnancies with a specialized obstetrician. This helps to understand their own risk factors which include the history of chronic hypertension, obesity or kidney disease or diabetes that makes the management of preeclampsia better during the pregnancy.

The doctor may recommend undergoing some investigations in order to diagnose any underlying health issues that can increase the risk of preeclampsia. This can help the doctors to suggest a treatment plan for safe future pregnancies.

Having a history of preeclampsia in previous pregnancies makes most of the women panic even to think about their next pregnancy. But, many women had healthy pregnancies and babies after experiencing preeclampsia. And to have a safe and healthy pregnancy with a history of preeclampsia one need to seek help from a specialized obstetrician with expertise in managing maternal and fetal health in high – risk pregnancies.

In a normal pregnancy, a fertilized egg passes through a fallopian tube and reaches the uterus, where it starts to grow. But, in an ectopic pregnancy, the fertilized egg attaches in some place other than the uterus. Most of the ectopic pregnancies occur in fallopian tubes and hence it is known as tubal pregnancy. In rare cases, the fertilized egg implants in an ovary or the cervix or the belly.

An ectopic pregnancy cannot be turned into a normal pregnancy. If a fertilized egg implants in any of the fallopian tubes, it cannot develop properly as fallopian tubes are not designed to hold a growing embryo. If the fertilized egg keeps growing in the fallopian tube, it can damage the tube or other maternal structures which causes life-threatening blood loss. Hence, ectopic pregnancy needs a quick treatment to end it which can help preserve the chances of healthy pregnancies in future.

Symptoms of Ectopic Pregnancy:

It is difficult to spot an ectopic pregnancy in the beginning as it seems like normal pregnancy with the typical pregnancy symptoms like a missed menstrual period, breast tenderness, fatigue, frequent urination, and nausea. The symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy can usually develop between the 4th and 12th weeks of pregnancy. But, only some women can experience the symptoms; while others cannot find that they have an ectopic pregnancy until their scan shows any abnormality or they develop some serious symptoms later on.

The main symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy include:

• Vaginal bleeding
• Abdominal or pelvic pain
• Shoulder tip pain
• Signs of rupture

Vaginal bleeding: Women with an ectopic pregnancy may experience vaginal bleeding which tends to be a bit different to a regular menstrual period. Some women don’t realize that they are pregnant and mistake this bleeding for a regular period.  Though vaginal bleeding during pregnancy is relatively common and not a sign of a serious problem in all cases, women should seek immediate medical advice whenever they experience it.

Abdominal or pelvic pain: Women may experience pain either in the abdomen or pelvic area, typically on one side. It may start sharply on one side at first and then slowly spread throughout the pelvic region. Since abdominal pain can be caused for a lot of reasons, it doesn’t necessarily mean that women who experience abdominal or pelvic pain during pregnancy have an ectopic pregnancy. But, since abdominal pain is one of the symptoms of an ectopic pregnancy, women who experience it while being pregnant should seek medical advice immediately.

Shoulder tip pain: The shoulder tip is exactly where the shoulder ends and the arms begin. Though the cause of pain in the shoulder tip is not exactly known, it could be a sign of ectopic pregnancy. An ectopic pregnancy can cause internal bleeding which irritates the diaphragm and is experienced as shoulder pain.

Signs of rupture: In few cases of an ectopic pregnancy, the embryo can grow large enough which could split the fallopian tube open, known as rupture. Ruptures are very serious and need surgery as soon as possible to repair the fallopian tube. When a rupture occurs, one can experience a sharp, sudden, intense pain in the abdomen, dizziness or lightheadedness and fatigue.

Causes of Ectopic Pregnancy:

In most cases, an ectopic pregnancy results from a damaged fallopian tube. A fertilized egg can get stuck in the area where the tube is damaged on its way to the uterus and begins to grow there. But, some ectopic pregnancies can occur without any known cause.

Here is a list of common causes of fallopian tube damage that might lead to an ectopic pregnancy.

• Blockage of fallopian tube from an infection or inflammation.
• A scar tissue due to an infection or previous surgical procedure on the fallopian tube can interfere with the movement of the fertilized egg.
• Surgeries in the pelvic area or on the fallopian tubes in the past can cause adhesions.
• Birth defects or abnormal growths can cause an abnormality in the shape of the fallopian tubes.
• Smoking has been linked to ectopic pregnancies. Women who smoke have higher rates of ectopic pregnancy, as smoking can damage the ability of fallopian tubes to move the fertilized egg towards the uterus.

Risk factors for Ectopic Pregnancy:

Some of the factors which are considered to increase one’s risk of having an ectopic pregnancy include:

• Maternal age
• Previous ectopic pregnancy
• Inflammation or infection
• Structural abnormalities
• Contraceptive choices
• Exposure to cigarette smoke

Maternal age:

Though an ectopic pregnancy can occur in any woman of any age during their reproductive years, the risk of having an ectopic pregnancy is highest among women aged 35 to 44 years.

Previous ectopic pregnancy:

Women who had a previous history of ectopic pregnancy are more likely to have another.

Inflammation or infection:

Inflammation of the fallopian tube or an infection of either uterus or fallopian tubes or ovaries; increases the risk of having an ectopic pregnancy.

Structural abnormalities:

Unusually shaped fallopian tubes or any damage to the fallopian tube that has occurred during a surgery can lead to an ectopic pregnancy. Even the surgery to reconstruct the fallopian tube can increase the risk of ectopic pregnancy.

Contraceptive choices:

IUDs (Intrauterine Devices) have been considered a risk factor for ectopic pregnancy. The use of IUDs do not increase the risk, but if a pregnancy occurs during its usage, it’s more likely to be ectopic. It is same with the pregnancy after tubal ligation, which is a permanent method of birth control in which the tunes are tied. Though pregnancy after tubal ligation is rare, if it happens, it can be more likely to be ectopic.

Exposure to cigarette smoke:

If a woman smokes or exposed to cigarette smoke, she the risk for ectopic pregnancy increases. The greater the exposure to cigarette smoke, the higher the risk for an ectopic pregnancy.

Ectopic Pregnancy Diagnosis:

It is difficult to diagnose an ectopic pregnancy by the evaluation of symptoms alone. During the prenatal visits, if the doctor suspects that a pregnant woman might have an ectopic pregnancy, he/she might prescribe some tests to evaluate further. The tests which can diagnose an ectopic pregnancy include:

• Vaginal ultrasound
• Blood tests
• Laparoscopy

Vaginal ultrasound:

A vaginal ultrasound can diagnose an ectopic pregnancy. It involves insertion of a small probe into the vagina, that emits sound waves which bounce back to create a clear image of the reproductive system on a monitor. This shows whether a fertilized egg has implanted in one of the fallopian tubes or not. But, in some cases, a vaginal ultrasound cannot spot an ectopic pregnancy.

Blood tests:

When a vaginal ultrasound couldn’t identify an ectopic pregnancy, blood tests are prescribed to measure the levels of HCG hormone (Human Chorionic Gonadotropin). To check the levels of this hormone, a blood sample is collected twice, 48 hours apart. If the test results indicate a lower level of HCG hormone than expected, it might be a reason to suspect an ectopic pregnancy.

Laparoscopy:

If it is still not clear whether a woman has an ectopic pregnancy or about the location of the pregnancy, a laparoscopy may be performed. It is a keyhole surgery which involves making an incision in the abdomen and insertion of a viewing tube called laparoscope. It helps to examine the womb and fallopian tubes, therefore the exact location of the pregnancy can be known and removed to avoid future complications.

Treatments for Ectopic Pregnancy:

A pregnancy can’t survive outside the uterus. So, the only to treat an ectopic pregnancy is to end it. As ectopic pregnancies aren’t safe for the mother and the embryo cannot develop normally outside the uterus, it needs to be removed as soon as possible to prevent further complications. Though ending the ectopic pregnancy is the only option, how the doctor will treat it depends on the location and development of the embryo. An ectopic pregnancy can be treated in two ways, which include:

• Medication
• Surgery

Medication: If an ectopic pregnancy is detected early, a medicine named Methotrexate is given as an injection. It is a drug that stops the growth of rapidly growing cells and dissolves existing cells of the embryo. After medication, blood tests are done to measure the levels of HCG. If the levels remain high, the doctor might give another dose of methotrexate. It may take several months for the woman to conceive after receiving this medication.

Surgery: If the medication doesn’t work or the developed embryo ruptures or damages the fallopian tubes,  the doctor may perform a laparoscopic surgery. It helps to remove the ectopic pregnancy and also repairs the damaged fallopian tube. If the ectopic pregnancy causes heavy bleeding or the fallopian tube is ruptured, a surgery called laparotomy is needed on an emergency basis.  And the ruptured fallopian tube must be removed.

After the surgery, the doctor will monitor the HCG levels to ensure all of the ectopic tissue is removed.

Prevention of Ectopic Pregnancy:

In case of ectopic pregnancy, both prevention and prediction aren’t possible. The risk of having an ectopic pregnancy can be reduced through maintaining optimal reproductive health but cannot be avoided completely. In order to lower the risk of having an ectopic pregnancy, every woman should be aware of its risk factors, complications, diagnosis and available contraceptive options. Use of ultrasonography during the first few weeks of pregnancy helps to early diagnosis of ectopic pregnancy and leads to conservative management.  So, being aware can help in reducing the risk of complications that would arise from an ectopic pregnancy.

• What is Endometriosis?
• What are the symptoms of Endometriosis?
• What are the causes of Endometriosis?
• What are the risk factors for Endometriosis?
• What are the complications of Endometriosis?
• How is Endometriosis diagnosed?
• How is Endometriosis treated?
• How can Endometriosis be prevented?

What is Endometriosis?

The name endometriosis comes from the word “endometrium”, the tissue that lines the uterus. During a woman’s menstrual cycle, endometrium tends to build up inside the uterus to support a potential pregnancy. If the woman doesn’t become pregnant, it breaks down and bleeds with each menstrual cycle.

Endometriosis is a condition in which the endometrium tissue grows outside the uterus, usually on other reproductive organs such as ovaries, fallopian tubes or inside the pelvis. Since the endometrial tissue is displaced, it has no way to exit the body and becomes trapped. This causes the inflammation of surrounding tissues, which can produce scar tissue and develop into growths.

What are the symptoms of Endometriosis?

The symptoms of endometriosis may vary from woman to woman. Some women may have mild symptoms, while others can experience moderate to severe symptoms. The primary symptom of endometriosis is pelvic pain and severe cramps during menstrual periods. Other common signs and symptoms of endometriosis include:

• Heavy menstrual bleeding
• Spotting or bleeding between periods
• Infertility
• Pain during intercourse
• Pain in lower abdomen & back during menstrual periods
• Pain during urination
• Discomfort with bowel movements

What are the causes of Endometriosis?

• Abnormal menstrual flow
• Family history
• Immune system disorders
• Surgical scar implantation

Though no one is sure about the cause of endometriosis, the possible causes include:

• Abnormal menstrual flow: In general, when a woman has a period, the menstrual blood flows out of the vagina and also flows back along the fallopian tubes into the pelvis. In most of the women, the blood that contains endometrial cells will be absorbed or broken down which doesn’t cause any symptoms. But, in women with endometriosis, these endometrial cells start to grow.

• Family history: A woman who has a close relative with endometriosis is more likely to be diagnosed with the condition, as endometriosis may be inherited in the genes and run in families.

• Immune system disorders: It may be hard for a weakened immune system to identify and destroy the endometrial tissue that is growing outside the uterus. Most of the women with endometriosis have immune system disorders and certain cancers.

• Surgical scar implantation: In some cases, when a woman undergoes a surgery such as a hysterectomy or C-section, the endometrial cells may get attached to the surgical incision or the endometrial tissue could be picked up and moved by mistake. In such cases, women may develop endometriosis.

What are the risk factors for Endometriosis?

There are several factors that place women at a greater risk of developing endometriosis. The risk factors for endometriosis include:

• Menstruating for the first time before the age 11
• Going through menopause at an older age
• Having short menstrual cycles (less than 27 days)
• Heavy and prolonged menstrual cycles
• Lower BMI value
• Having one or more relatives with endometriosis
• Uterine abnormalities or medical conditions that prevent the normal passage of the menstrual flow out of the body.
• Alcohol consumption
• Having higher levels of estrogen in the body or getting exposed to estrogen that is produced by the body.

What are the complications of Endometriosis?

• Fertility Issues
• Ovarian Cancer
• Adhesions and Ovarian Cysts

In some cases, women with endometriosis can experience a number of complications which include:

• Fertility Issues: Endometriosis can damage the ovaries, fallopian tubes and affects women’s fertility. It may obstruct the fallopian tube and affects the fertilization which makes it harder for women to get pregnant. Endometriosis may also affect the fertility in less-direct ways, such as causing damage to either the sperm or egg. Though women with mild to moderate endometriosis can conceive, it is advised to women with endometriosis not to delay the pregnancy as the condition may worsen with time.
• Ovarian Cancer: Though the overall lifetime risk is relatively low, women with endometriosis are at a higher risk to develop ovarian cancer. Women who have had endometriosis have a chance to develop another type of cancer – endometriosis-associated adenocarcinoma, later in life.
• Adhesions and Ovarian Cysts: In women with endometriosis, if the endometriosis tissue is in or near the ovaries, adhesions and ovarian cysts may be formed. Adhesions are the sticky areas of endometrial tissue that can join organs together, while ovarian cysts are the fluid-filled cysts in the ovaries that can be large and painful.

How is Endometriosis diagnosed?

If a woman is suspected to have endometriosis based on the symptoms, she would be prescribed to undergo certain investigations which can further evaluate the condition. Medical tests which help to diagnose endometriosis include:

• Pelvic Exam: The doctor may feel for large cysts or scars behind the uterus during a pelvic exam.

• Ultrasound: An ultrasound can help the doctor to detect the presence of any ovarian cysts from endometriosis.

• Medicine: If no signs of ovarian cysts are found during an ultrasound, the doctor may prescribe hormonal birth control pills that can lessen pelvic pain during periods and other medicines to block the menstrual cycle along with decreasing the estrogen production. These medications can help to relieve pelvic pain as long as they are taken. If the pain gets better with hormonal medicine, a woman may have endometriosis.

• Laparoscopy: In some cases, laparoscopy is suggested to look inside the pelvic area to see endometriosis tissue.

How is Endometriosis treated?

There is no cure for endometriosis. But, there are treatment options to manage pain and infertility issues related to endometriosis. The treatment options for endometriosis is either medication or surgery, but the approach of the treatment depends on different factors which include:

• The women’s age
• How severe the symptoms are
• How severe the condition is
• Whether the woman want to conceive or not

Medication:

If a woman with endometriosis doesn’t want to conceive, she would be prescribed hormonal birth control pills. These would help in relieving the pain and heavy bleeding due to endometriosis. Hormonal treatment works as long as it is taken and it suits the best for women who do not have severe pain or symptoms.

If a woman with endometriosis wants to conceive, she would be prescribed with medicines for some period of time that would stop the body to produce hormones that are responsible for ovulation, menstrual cycle and the growth of endometriosis. When the course of medication gets finished, the menstrual cycle returns, but she may have a better chance of getting pregnant.

Conservative Surgery:

If a woman diagnosed with endometriosis is trying to become pregnant, a surgery will be performed to remove the endometriosis to a much extent while preserving her uterus and ovaries. This surgery is known as conservative surgery. It makes the chances of pregnancy better and relieves severe pain from endometriosis. However, endometriosis and pain may recur. Conservative surgery can be done either through traditional abdominal surgery or by laparoscopically.

Hysterectomy:

When a woman is diagnosed with severe endometriosis, hysterectomy is considered as the best treatment. Hysterectomy is a surgery in which the uterus, cervix and both the ovaries are removed. A woman cannot get pregnant after a hysterectomy. So, it is suggested to women who are not trying to conceive. In typical cases of endometriosis, some women may undergo hysterectomy while they are still in their reproductive years.

How can Endometriosis be prevented?

Endometriosis cannot be prevented completely. But, one can significantly lower the risk of being affected by endometriosis. Higher estrogen levels are responsible for thickening the lining inside the uterus during the menstrual cycle. And this is when endometriosis usually begins. So, in order to lower the risk of developing endometriosis, it is important to lower the body’s estrogen levels. Some of the ways to lessen the estrogen levels in the body include:

• Exercise regularly: Body fat is known as secondary production site of estrogen. Exercising regularly helps to decrease the amount of body fat and lowers the excess production of estrogen that circulates through the body.

• Eat healthily: One’s diet has a greater impact on hormone levels. Since estrogen is one of the hormones, diet has a greater impact on the production of estrogen as well. A diet with high amounts of fats influences the excess production of estrogen by the body. As the production of estrogen increases so does the chances of developing endometriosis. Having a fibre-rich diet helps to lessen the estrogen levels and lowers the risk of endometriosis.

• Avoid alcohol: Alcoholic drinks cause a rise in estrogen levels. So, one should avoid alcohol to lower the risk of endometriosis.

• Limit caffeinated drinks: Regular consumption of caffeinated drinks have been linked to the production of higher estrogen levels. To lower the risk of endometriosis, it is suggested to limit the caffeinated drinks by one per day.

The hormonal changes caused by PCOS can lead to many negative side effects such as,

• Irregular menstrual cycles
• Fertility issues
• Changes in appearance (weight gain, unwanted hair, hair loss)

If PCOS left untreated, women may have higher risk for

• Heart disease
• Diabetes
• High blood pressure
• Endometrial cancer

Though PCOS cannot be cured, regular exercise and a healthy diet can help women to relieve its symptoms and therefore lower the risk of other health issues.

Why should women with PCOS be diet conscious?  

           Though diet is important to everyone for a healthier life, it is especially essential for women suffering from PCOS. PCOS causes women to produce higher levels of insulin than normal levels. When the body produces more insulin than it uses, it can lead to insulin resistance.

When one becomes insulin resistant, the blood sugar levels tend to increase. And to maintain normal blood sugar levels, the body produces high levels of insulin. High levels of insulin make ovaries to produce excess levels of hormones like testosterone.So, maintaining a healthy diet prevents hormonal imbalances and thus relieves women from the symptoms of PCOS.

What not to eat with PCOS?

Processed foods:

Women diagnosed with PCOS should strictly avoid processed foods. All processed foods usually contain high amounts of sodium and unhealthy fats. Also, they are high in trans fat with negligible amounts of nutrients.Hence, consumption of processed foods leads to unwanted weight gain which in turn worsens the symptoms of PCOS. In addition to this, the fats present in the processed foods often get deposited on the ovaries, which worsens the condition to much extent.

Dairy products:

Almost everyone’s regular diet contains even a single dairy product. But, women with PCOS are recommended to limit dairy products in their diet. The reason behind this is when women are diagnosed with PCOS, their bodies have a natural tendency to develop insulin resistance and the consumption of dairy products can lead to excess production of insulin. It is recommended to stick to skimmed milk if one cannot avoid dairy products completely from their diet.

Refined flour:

Refined flour is high in carbohydrates and low in fibre. It is one of the high glycemic index foods which triggers the excess production of insulin when consumed. Since PCOS can make women insulin resistant, foods made from refined flour should be avoided in the diet.

What to eat with PCOS?

High fibre foods:

Women with PCOS are highly suggested to increase their fibre intake. Fibre helps control blood glucose levels by reducing the amount of insulin produced. So, one’s diet should contain a lot of vegetables and fruits in order to get a good amount of fibre.

Nuts & Seeds:

Including healthy fats in the diet is equally as important as eliminating unhealthy fats. Nuts and seeds are a great source of healthy fats and protein. Women who are diagnosed with PCOS should have a handful of nuts and seeds such as almonds, hazelnuts, flax seeds etc regularly.

Lean protein:

Women with PCOS should get their protein from lean proteins. Lean proteins help balance the hormones and also aids in weight management. Foods that are good sources of lean proteins include fish, chicken, tofu etc.

In addition to following the above-mentioned diet rules, women with PCOS should opt a proactive lifestyle which includes regular physical activity and exercise. Having smaller portions of meals at regular intervals rather than having fewer larger portions helps to regulate insulin levels. Making these dietary changes can help with the weight loss, improved ovulation and overall wellness along with relieving the PCOS symptoms.

Do they often complain of stomach aches?

If your answer is yes to any of the above-asked questions, then your kids might have poor digestion.

Kids can either be non-stop eaters or picky eaters. Their inappropriate eating habits can make them develop digestive issues such as gas, bloating, diarrhea, constipation and even other bowel diseases.

What is the role of digestion?

          Digestion plays an important role in overall well-being. It breaks downs the consumed food into nutrients and provides energy to the body for growth and cell repair. Without good digestion, one cannot absorb the nutrients from their food. So, a healthy digestion is very essential, especially for kids as they are still growing.

When kids have poor digestion, even healthy diets are useless. The nutrients from the consumed food cannot be absorbed by the body unless it is digested properly. And when the essential nutrients aren’t absorbed by the body, it may lead to nutritional deficiencies which in turn hinders the growth and affect the child’s development in many ways. So, here are some amazing tips to boost your child’s digestive health for a healthy growth.

Tips to boost child’s gut health:

• Set limits for portions:
  

  Kids do not have a sense of how much food is appropriate, so it’s better to show them how much they should eat. Eating larger portions at a time puts a lot of pressure on the digestive system which decreases the body’s ability to properly break down the food and absorb the nutrients.  Parents should monitor and control the size of the portions on kid’s plates. Serving kids with smaller portions of food more often can avoid overeating and also slows down their eating pace which prevents digestive problems. So, avoid big servings and let your kid indulge in small portions for better digestion.

• Avoid drinking with meals:
  

  Most of the kids often expect to drink something while eating or drink much water with meals. When water is consumed with meals, it dilutes the digestive juices which slow down the process of digestion. So, it is best to give only a minimum amount of fluids around meal time. Let your kids drink water either 15 minutes prior or 30 to 45 minutes after meals.

• Limit processed foods:
  

  Everyone knows that processed foods aren’t healthy. The trans fats and preservatives in these foods can interfere and complicate the process of digestion. Almost all processed foods contain very few or no nutrients which in turn use the body’s nutrients when they are being digested. This creates a nutrient deficiency that will affect digestion in future. Kids with digestive problems should strictly avoid processed foods and stick to natural, whole foods to maintain a healthy digestive system.

• Reduce the portions of heavy foods:
  

  Having large portions of heavy foods such as meats and dairy products gives an extra pressure to the digestive system. Heavy foods may use up more digestive energy when compared to other foods. This may result in slow or improper digestion and leads to tummy troubles. So, children should be given heavy foods in small or moderate quantities to help their digestive system.

• Proper food combinations:
  

  Improper food combinations are often the reason behind digestive disorders. To prevent digestive issues, certain foods should be combined and consumption of certain foods together should be avoided. The main food combination which should be kept apart are starches and protein-dense foods. Starches should always be paired with healthy fats or vegetables. Since green leafy vegetables and non-starchy foods contain their own digestive enzymes, they can be paired with any food combinations. Following food-combining principles, aids digestion and therefore prevents digestive issues.

• Encourage mindful eating:
  

  Nowadays most of the children are used to have their meals while watching TV or playing on their computers. And most of the parents are feeding their little fussy eaters by distracting them with TV and smartphones. But this habit has to be withdrawn right away. Watching TV while having meals, distracts the body from digestion. The body feels stressed, as it diverts energy from the digestion. Practicing mindful eating helps the body to digest consumed food properly.

Including these strategies in your kid’s eating habits can help their digestive system to function properly. As a result, kids can get relief from the symptoms of digestive issues such as bloating, gas, and discomfort. Developing good eating habits at an early age aids better digestion and healthy growth.

What is breast cancer?

Breast cancer occurs when the cells in the breast tissue change and keeps multiplying. These abnormal cells accumulate together and form a tumor. When these abnormal cells spread to the other parts of the breast or to the other areas of the body, the tumor is considered to be cancerous.

What are the causes of breast cancer?

Though the reason behind the damage of cells in the breast isn’t clearly understood. The main cause of breast cancer is the genetic mutation in the DNA of breast cancer cells. These genetic mutations might develop randomly over time or inherited or can result from environmental exposures or lifestyle factors.

What are the symptoms of breast cancer?

Some of the signs and symptoms of breast cancer which women might experience may include:

• A change in size or shape of the breast

• Lump in the breast or armpit either with or without pain.

• Pain in breast or nipple or armpit

• Redness of the skin either on breast or nipple

• A discharge of blood-stained or clear fluid from the nipple

• Inverted nipple

• Peeling or flaking or scaling of breast skin

• Swelling or thickening or shrinkage is seen especially in one breast

Why is a regular screening of breast cancer important?

           There are no early warning signs of breast cancer, which makes it really important to get regular screening tests. Screening tests evaluate a normal person who does not have any symptoms or signs of cancer and check if there is underlying cancer. Every woman should understand that, even if she develops a lump in her breast, it may not be sizeable for a long time. By the time a breast lump becomes detectable, it would be a second stage or more of cancer.

Clinical breast examination and mammography are the two main screening tests for breast cancer. Getting these tests at regular intervals can help in early detection of breast cancer which in turn prevents the disease to get worse. The higher the risk of disease, the greater the frequency of getting screening tests.

How can breast cancer be diagnosed?

When any abnormality is found in the mammography reports of a woman, she may ask to undergo any of the following diagnostic tests for further evaluation of the disease:

• Breast exam
• Diagnostic Mammogram
• Breast ultrasound
• Biopsy
• Breast MRI

What are the treatments for breast cancer?

All treatments of breast cancer mainly have two goals:

• To remove cancer from the body

• To prevent the disease from recurring

The treatment for breast cancer varies from person to person based on following factors:

• The type of cancer
• Size of the tumor
• Stage of the cancer

Different types of breast cancer treatments include:

• Hormone therapy:  Uses drugs to prevent hormones, especially estrogen from boosting the growth of breast cancer cells.

• Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill the cancer cells.

• Radiation therapy: Uses High-energy waves to kill cancer cells.
• Surgery: Breast-conserving surgery or lumpectomy is a surgery performed to remove a tumor and the tissues around it. Mastectomy is the surgery performed to remove the whole breast, mostly in the later stages of breast cancer where the destruction of cancer cells or controlling the disease is not possible.

What are the risk factors for breast cancer?

Being aware of breast cancer risks helps to prevent some of them and stay protected from the disease to some extent. Below mentioned are some of the risk factors for breast cancer:

• Age:  The risk of breast cancer increases as one gets older.

• Family History: People who have a close blood relative with breast cancer increases the risk of developing the disease.

• Menstruation: Start of menstrual periods before age 12 might increases the risk of breast cancer. In a similar way, women whose menopause begins at an older stage are more likely to develop breast cancer.

• Weight: Women who are overweight or obese are at higher risk of developing breast cancer. This may be due to the fat cells which are responsible to produce and raise the estrogen levels after menopause. Also, being overweight increases the blood levels of insulin which can affect the risk of breast cancer.
• Alcohol consumption: The risk of breast cancer rises with the alcohol intake. Women who drink two or more alcoholic beverages a day have much risk of developing breast cancer when compared to non-drinkers.

How can breast cancer be prevented?

While one cannot prevent breast cancer completely, the chances of developing breast cancer can be lowered by making certain healthy lifestyle changes. Some of them include:

• Maintain a healthy weight

• Limit alcohol intake

• Choose to breastfeed your baby

• Limit postmenopausal hormone therapy

• Have a balanced diet

• Get regular breast cancer screening tests & clinical breast examinations

Whenever we think of a healthy diet, we always hear a word “balanced diet”. But one should know a balance of what is healthy. So, here are the top 10 essential nutrients that every child should get on a daily basis for a healthy growth.

• Carbohydrates:
  

  In these days, almost everyone is trying to have a low-carb diet. But children need carbohydrates, as they provide required energy for physical activity. Carbohydrates help the body to use protein and fat to build and repair tissue. Though they are available in different forms such as starches, sugars, and fibers, kids should get most of the carbohydrates from starches and fibers and less from the sugars. High levels of carbohydrates are present in bread, rice, potatoes, pasta, and cereals.

• Protein:
  

  Protein is especially important for growth. It builds, maintains and repairs body tissue. Protein breakdowns the consumed food into energy, fights infection and carries oxygen. Foods which contain a good amount of protein include dairy products, nuts, eggs, meat, fish, poultry, and beans.

• Fats:
  

  Fats are always believed to be bad for health. There are two types of fats which are good and bad. Good fats are the great sources of energy for kids and they easily get stored in the body. They play an important role in brain and nerve growth in infants and toddlers. Healthy fats also boost metabolism, blood clotting and help body to absorb vitamins. They are present in cooking oils, whole-milk dairy products, meat, nuts, and fish.

• Iron:
  

  Iron is important for making red blood cells that carry oxygen in the body and helps the child grow. Lack of iron results in anemia and child may experience fatigue and irritability. Some of the best sources of iron are beans, eggs, iron-fortified cereal, meat, whole grains, and nuts.

• Fiber:
  

  Most of the children suffer from constipation. Fiber helps in bowel regularity and also decreases the risk of heart disease, cancer later in life. Foods that contain fiber include chickpeas, nuts, lentils, whole-grain cereals etc.

• Calcium:
  

  Calcium is well known for building strong bones and healthy teeth. But it also promotes healthy nerve and muscle function. It also helps in blood clotting, and body to convert food into energy. High levels of calcium are present in dairy products, egg yolks, broccoli, tofu, spinach etc.

• Folate:
  

  Folate is important to produce red blood cells. They also help in brain development and functioning. It also boosts the immune system, digestive health and reduces the risk of heart disease. Some of the best sources of folate are lentils, whole-grain cereals, spinach. Kidney beans, chickpeas etc.

• Vitamin A:
  

  Vitamin is important for a variety of purposes in kids and adults. It promotes healthy vision and bone growth. Also, vitamin A protects the body from infections and aids the healthy growth of cells, tissues including hair, nails, and skin. Foods that are best sources of vitamin A are carrots, spinach, apricots, sweet potatoes, egg yolks, fish oils etc.

• Vitamin C:
  

  Vitamin C strengthens children’s immunity and improves brain functioning. It helps the body heal wounds faster and builds strong bones and teeth. It also strengthens the walls of blood vessels and keeps child’s gums healthy. The best sources of vitamin c are citrus fruits, tomatoes, mangoes, broccoli, cauliflower, melons etc.

• Vitamin D:

  Vitamin D helps the body absorb minerals like calcium which build strong bones and teeth. It is crucial for reaching potential and peak bone mass in children. Vitamin D also acts as a hormone to boost immunity, produce insulin and regulating cell growth.

What is folic acid?

Folic acid is the synthetic form of folate and is one among the B-vitamins. It plays a key role in the cell production and division as well. It is also essential for many bodily functions including the production of red blood cells.

Why do pregnant women need folic acid?

Folic acid protects the fetus from developing neural tube defects and may also prevent other birth defects. It also helps the mother to form healthy red blood cells. If a pregnant woman doesn’t get enough folic acid, it may lead to anemia. Besides these, folic acid is beneficial in many ways. So, every pregnant woman should get enough folic acid during her pregnancy.

What are the natural sources of folic acid?

Folic acid is present in some foods in its natural form folate which include:

• Green leafy vegetables
• Beans
• Peas
• Chickpeas
• Brown rice
• Fruits
• Breakfast cereals
• Enriched bread and other grain products

How much folic acid is needed during pregnancy?

Women who are trying to conceive should get 400mcg per day. And the requirement of folic acid changes during pregnancy. The recommended daily intake of folic acid is mentioned below in terms of pregnancy.

• During the first trimester: 400 mcg
• During second & third trimester: 600 mcg
• While breastfeeding: 500 mcg

What is the right time to start taking folic acid?

Most birth defects occur within the first few weeks of pregnancy. So, to protect the fetus from developing birth defects, women who are planning to conceive should start taking folic acid supplements and women who already are pregnant should continue the supplements on doctor’s advice without fail.

How is folic acid beneficial during pregnancy?

As said earlier, folic acid is beneficial during pregnancy for both mother and unborn baby in many ways. The top benefits of folic acid during pregnancy include:

• Reduces the mother’s risk of anemia:

  During pregnancy, women need more folic acid than normal as cells multiply at a faster rate. The amount of folic acid present in the woman’s body decreases as the fetus grows. This can lead to maternal anemia which, in turn, affects the development of the unborn baby. So, taking folic acid supplements helps with the extra requirement during pregnancy.

• Prevents birth defects:

  Folic acid deficiency has been linked to birth defects such as spine and brain defects. Other defects include cleft lip & palate, heart defects. Hence, getting enough folic acid helps to prevent possible birth defects.

• Decreases the chances of miscarriage and premature births:

  Women who don’t get enough folic acid during their pregnancy, have a higher risk of miscarriage or premature birth. The recommended intake of folic acid helps to prevent miscarriage, poor baby growth and also low birth weight issues.

• Promotes growth of placenta:

  The placenta plays a crucial role in the pregnancy. It helps the nutrients transfer from the mother to the fetus. If it doesn’t grow properly, the fetus cannot get the required nutrition which results in nutrition deficiency and leads to other potential risks.  Proper intake of folic acid during pregnancy ensures the right development of the placenta and also helps in the production, the functioning of DNA.

• Lowers the risk of preeclampsia:

  Preeclampsia is a condition that occurs in pregnant women. It involves high blood pressure, loss of protein in urine and swelling of hands, legs, and feet. Preeclampsia can be a direct threat to the developing baby and can be dangerous for both the mother and baby as well. Consuming enough folic acid during pregnancy reduces the women’s risk of developing preeclampsia.

• Prevents neural tube defects:

  Neural tube defects are the birth defects of the brain and spinal cord. They often develop during the first 4 weeks of pregnancy which means neural defects may occur by the time pregnancy is confirmed. In case of folic acid deficiency, the baby’s neural tube may not close correctly and leads to health risks. Proper consumption of folic acid during pregnancy promotes healthy fetal development and prevents neural tube defects.

• Prevents depression:

  It is known that mood swings are common during pregnancy. Low levels of folic acid make mood swings worse and lead to depression. Hence, optimum levels of folic acid can help with the mood swings and therefore prevents depression.

• Avoids pregnancy complications:

  Folic acid deficiency has been linked to pregnancy complications. Getting the right amount of folic acid every day can prevent pregnancy complications like preeclampsia, cancers, Alzheimer’s, stroke and heart diseases. Hence, pregnant women who consume folic acid need not be afraid of pregnancy complications.