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- **Definition:** - Induction is the process of stimulating labor artificially to initiate childbirth before it begins naturally. - **Reasons for Induction:** - **Medical Necessity:** To protect the health of the mother or baby, such as in cases of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes, or fetal distress. - **Post-Term Pregnancy:** When the pregnancy extends beyond the due date, increasing risks for both mother and baby. - **...
- **External Cephalic Version (ECV):** - A manual procedure typically performed around 37 weeks, where a trained provider uses gentle pressure on your abdomen to encourage the baby to turn into a head-down (cephalic) position. - **Maternal Positioning Techniques:** - Some exercises or positions, such as pelvic tilts, knee-to-chest stretches, or specific yoga poses, may encourage the baby to move naturally. - **Alternative Therapies:** ...
- **Weight Gain Guidelines Based on Pre-Pregnancy BMI (in kg):** - **Underweight (BMI < 18.5):** Aim for approximately 13–18 kg. - **Normal Weight (BMI 18.5–24.9):** Aim for approximately 11–16 kg. - **Overweight (BMI 25–29.9):** Aim for approximately 7–11 kg. - **Obese (BMI ≥ 30):** Aim for approximately 5–9 kg. - **Additional Considerations:** - Weight gain is typically gradual, with...
- **Walking:** - A low-impact, accessible exercise that boosts cardiovascular health and can be easily modified to suit your pace and comfort level. - **Swimming and Water Aerobics:** - The buoyancy of water supports your weight, reducing stress on joints while providing a full-body workout that enhances strength and flexibility. - **Prenatal Yoga:** - Focuses on gentle stretching, breathing, and relaxation, which can help...
Medications that is safe to take during pregnancy: - **Prenatal Vitamins & Supplements:** - **Folic Acid:** Vital for preventing neural tube defects. - **Iron, Calcium & Vitamin D:** Help meet increased nutritional demands and support fetal development. ...
- **General Safety:** - Most healthy pregnancies allow for safe travel, especially during the second trimester (weeks 14-28), which is often considered the best time to travel. - **Consult Your Healthcare Provider:** - Before planning any trip, discuss your travel plans with your provider to ensure that there are no complications or restrictions specific to your pregnancy. - **Mode of Travel Considerations:** ...
- **Toxoplasmosis Overview:** - Caused by the parasite Toxoplasma gondii. - Often asymptomatic in healthy individuals, but can be serious during pregnancy. - **Risks During Pregnancy:** - The parasite can cross the placenta and infect the fetus. - May lead to miscarriage, stillbirth, or congenital defects (e.g., eye or brain issues). - **Prevention Measures:** - **Food Safety:** - Avoid raw or underco...
- **What is Listeriosis?** - A foodborne infection caused by the bacterium Listeria monocytogenes. - Commonly found in contaminated foods such as unpasteurized dairy products, soft cheeses, deli meats, and ready-to-eat foods. - **How Does It Affect Pregnancy?** - **Placental Transfer:** Listeria can cross the placenta, directly infecting the fetus. - **Complications:** Increases the risk of miscarriage, stillbirth, premature delivery, or ...
- **What is a Bladder Infection During Pregnancy?** - It is an infection of the bladder, commonly known as cystitis, which is usually caused by bacteria (often E. coli). - Pregnancy-related hormonal and anatomical changes can make women more susceptible to these infections. - **Symptoms:** - Frequent and urgent need to urinate. - Burning sensation during urination. - Cloudy or strong-smelling urine. - Pelvic discom...
Viral Infections during Pregnancy - **Influenza (Flu):** - **Complications:** Can lead to severe respiratory illness, pneumonia, increased hospitalization risk, preterm labor, and low birth weight. - **Prevention:** Annual vaccination, proper hand hygiene, and avoiding close contact with infected individuals. - **Rubella:** - **Complications:** Infection during early pregnancy can cause congenital rubella syndrome, leading to heart defects, he...
