The last trimester of my pregnancy was spent on nutrition classes, visits to my endocrinologist and daily injection of insulin. This was due to gestational diabetes that I developed on the 27th week of my pregnancy.
Gestational Diabetes (GD) occurs when our body cannot produce enough insulin to cope with the effects of changing hormone levels due to a growing baby inside us.
I was put on a diet of high protein and strictly no sugar. I love my table sugar (sucrose), but it shoots up my glucose level, so I was prohibited by my dietitian from consuming it. However, to my surprise, artificial sweeteners was allowed to replace my sugar intake.
This puzzled me, since I always thought that artificial sweeteners are worse than sugar. In fact, my husband even stopped drinking diet soda due to the articles he read about their adverse effects. And he warned me never to consume artificial sweeteners during my pregnancy.
I understand where my husband was coming from. There are many conflicting reports in the media and on the internet about artificial sweeteners. Attending nutrition classes and doing my personal research helped me address my concerns on their safety.
Dear readers, let me share the facts that may be able to shed light on the controversial question that most moms-to-be are concerned about: are artificial sweeteners safe during pregnancy?
Artificial sweeteners: To take or not to take.
Artificial sweeteners are sugar substitutes that have a sweet taste that can be found in pre-packaged foods and drinks. Some artificial sweeteners may be added to coffee and tea, or may be used for baking and cooking.
Health Canada is more direct on its take on the issue: consumption of sugar substitutes during pregnancy does not pose a health risk.
However, it is important to note that pregnant women should use artificial sweeteners in moderation. The publication also warns that we should avoid consuming too many food products with artificial sweeteners, since they may be replacing more nutritious options for a healthy pregnancy.
Furthermore, there are different kinds of artificial sweeteners and some are not advisable to be taken during pregnancy. Read on to familiarize yourself on sugar substitutes and avoid using the types that are not advisable for pregnant women.
Types of Artificial Sweeteners.
There are two main types of artificial sweeteners: those that have calories (sugar alcohol) and those without.
Sugar alcohol have fewer calories than table sugar and have small effect on the blood glucose level. They are used in pre-packaged foods and drinks and in some liquid medication. Large amounts (more than 10 grams/day) can cause diarrhea, cramps, gas and bloating.
Artificial sweeteners with no calories do not have an effect on the blood glucose level. However, they are often used in very small amounts since they can be 30 to 3000 times sweeter than table sugar.
The US Food and Drug Administration and the Dietitians of Canada enumerate the types of sweeteners that have been approved for use.
1. Aspartame (more popularly known under the brand names Equal™ and Nutrasweet™)
- it is used in soft drinks, yogurt, candy and as a table-top sweetener.
Warning: people with a condition called phenylketonuria (PKU) must avoid foods with aspartame.
2. Sucralose (brand name Splenda™)
- it is used for home cooking and baking.
- it is widely used in soft drinks, candy, baked goods and frozen desserts and ice cream products.
3. Acesulfame potassium
- it is not used as a table top sweetener.
- it is used only by food manufacturers as an ingredient for sweetening soft drinks and candy.
4. Sugar alcohols (sorbitol, mannitol, maltitol, xylitol)
- cannot be bought as table sweeteners but are used by food manufacturers in foods and beverages such as candy, frozen desserts and ice cream products.
5. Saccharin (table top sweetener Hermesetas®)
- It can only be bought at pharmacies in Canada.
Warning: For pregnant women, check with your doctor before using saccharin.
6. Stevia leaf and extract of stevia leaves
- approved for use as ingredients in certain natural health products in Canada. Purified stevia extract is approved as a table top sweetener and food additive in some foods such as candy, gum, baking mixes and snacks.
- Whole leaf and crude stevia are not permitted for use as sweeteners in the United States.
- No clear research that provides it is safe to take during pregnancy
7. Cyclamate (marketed as the table top sweeteners Sucaryl®, Sugar Twin® and Sweet ‘N Low®)
- it is not permitted as a food additive in Canada.
- it is currently prohibited by FDA for use in the United States.
8. Sweet Advice on Artificial Sweeteners
The following are important guide for pregnant women:
- Always read the ingredients list to determine if there is artificial sweetener in a package of food or bottle of beverage you have purchased.
- Sweeteners may be listed in many different names. Know your sweeteners; some types may be best avoided during pregnancy such as saccharin.
- If you have concerns about using your sweeteners, talk to your doctor or a dietician.
Do not forget: consume artificial sweeteners in moderation. I was under strict diet monitoring, but I was allowed to have diet soda after meals once in a while, and I took artificial sweeteners for my occasional coffee. The only time my blood sugar went up was when I used saccharin; I avoided it all through out my pregnancy.
Be sure to eat healthy while you are pregnant. As my dietitian sternly reminded me when I failed to stick to my diet: this is not about you, this is about the health of your baby.
Her words stung! But in the long run, I realized that was the sweetest advice I had ever received. Although I had to be induced a week earlier, my baby girl came out healthy and strong.
And may I say, she is one sweet bundle of joy.
SOURCE: Momtricks
Looking for some fun ways to break the baby news to your family? We put this one to our users—here's what they came up with:
“I have an older sister who already has a son. At an extended family gathering my mom said, ‘Well, I'm going to be a grandma again!’ Everyone (aunts, uncles, cousins) turned to my sister and yelled out her name. She was shaking her head no and then they turned to me and said ‘You're pregnant?’” — vagirl06
“For my family: I made a onesie for my 7-month-old niece that said, ‘I'm getting a cousin!’ My husband's family: On Easter, I wore a maternity tank that said, ‘I ♥ baby.’ Everyone was too nervous to ask me about it, so I said to his mom, "I see you looking at my shirt. Aren't you going to say anything?’ And she got all excited and told me she thought maybe I was just wearing the shirt because I thought it was cute or something.” — jesnbrent
“We waited until Easter, and had the whole family on both sides over for dinner. My husband asked for everyone to hold hands right before dinner, so he could say grace. He started with how many things that we are all thankful for, and ended the list with an addition to the family — that we were expecting. The family was so excited, it was a great dinner.” — Dunkin
“I told my parents after coming back from the OB at week nine. I had decided in my mind not to tell them for another three weeks, even though I had the sonogram in my pocket. My mother asked me, ‘So what's going on with your testing? You decided not to do it, didn't you?’ I smiled and threw out the sonogram picture. Shocked them too!” — Ingrid&Richard
“I wanted to tell family members individually, which was neat because everyone got to have their own moment. The best one was when I told my 15-year-old sister. I actually went and pulled her out of cheer practice and she was just ecstatic! It was a total shock for everyone, but it certainly made all of our family members happy.” — Sara0110
“We went to visit my in-laws for my husband's birthday, which is just a few days apart from his brother's birthday. I baked a cake and decorated it with King Cake babies. I wrote ‘Happy Birthday Uncle A and Daddy A’ on the cake. My husband asked my mother-in-law to cut and serve it. She commented on how cute the babies were and read the text. She was so confused, but after a minute she said, ‘Are you expecting?’” — Iguanita
“With our friends, we did the group photo announcement. My husband gathered us all into a group and took pictures with several of my friends cameras, and finally his own. So it went, ‘Say cheese...’ with one camera, ‘Say cheese...’ with the next, and finally ‘Say xyz's pregnant’ with his own camera. Everyone said it and then laughed... but then it set in, and we were able to capture everyone's reaction forever!” — RunAway
“We had an ultrasound at 6 weeks, 4 days. We had a photo of the sonogram, so we scanned it and printed out copies for each grandmother-to-be. We made excuses to give them gifts, then presented each of them with the sonogram in a baby frame. We also had my digital camera ready, which secretly films a movie, too — so we have it all captured for our journal!” — finallyPG
“For my parents, we told them the night before their anniversary with a poem I wrote for them from the baby. My dad got it after the second line and my mom read the whole thing then looked at me crying. — fairytalebride5
“When I found out I was pregnant with my daughter, we had plans to go to dinner with my husband's family (mother-in-law, father-in-law, brother-in-law and sister-in-law). My sister-in-law was 12 at the time and I found a bib that said ‘I love my aunt’ and put it in a gift bag. I sat next to her at dinner and slipped the bag to her. She opened it without my in-laws seeing and just kinda looked at it confused. She showed my mother-in-law who didn't get it either. My father-in-law finally understood and starting crying. — RugbyBride
SOURCE: Thebump
Cankles. One of the strange but real side effects of pregnancy. Though they’re totally normal, they can be uncomfortable and perhaps, um, unsightly.
Really, what’s the deal with swollen feet during pregnancy?
Can swollen feet be avoided? Is there anything you can do to relieve the swelling? Can swollen feet ever be a sign of something more serious?
Read on, mama. 😊
What does it mean to have swollen feet during pregnancy?
Swollen feet during pregnancy, or edema, is due to your body hanging onto excess fluids, especially in the hands and feet. Though it can happen to anyone at any time for various reasons, edema is particularly common in pregnant women.
What causes swollen feet while pregnant?
Edema is a normal reaction to the inflammation caused by pregnancy. When you’re pregnant, your blood volume and bodily fluids increase by 50%. This excess fluid ensures baby has what she needs when she needs it. But it needs to be stored somewhere, hence your swollen feet.
Besides the feet, swelling can occur in the ankles, calves, hands, and face.
Your kidneys regulate the fluid in your body. If it’s particularly hot out or you’re becoming dehydrated, your kidneys react by telling your body to store excess fluid in case it’s needed. Additionally, your kidneys work to process the stored fluid to give necessary body parts what they need.
The excess strain of a heavy uterus can make circulation from your lower extremities back to your heart a little less efficient, causing pooling of fluids.
What can I do about swollen feet during pregnancy?
There are a number of diet and lifestyle choices that can help with swollen feet while pregnant.
👟 Don’t sit or stand for long periods of time
This may be tricky if you work in an office, but changing positions often can really help relieve edema in pregnancy. A treadmill desk is a great solution, but if you can’t get one of those, you can try a standing desk, or sitting for a while and getting away from the desk frequently to get circulation flowing.
👟 Use gravity to your advantage
If you’re having swollen feet during pregnancy, one great way to relieve the swelling is by putting your feet up often. When you’re lounging at home, try to keep your feet above your heart.
👟 Drink more water
It may seem counterintuitive, but drinking more water will actually help you get rid of excess fluids. When your body is dehydrated, your kidneys think they need to hold onto as much water as possible since there doesn’t seem to be enough. Giving your body the fluids it needs will remind your kidneys that it can get rid of the excess.
👟 Drink less caffeine
Caffeine is a diuretic, which means it increases the amount of fluid you eliminate through urine. However, it also causes dehydration, which makes your kidneys hang onto more excess fluid. Try to reduce the amount of caffeine you have each day—which is good advice for pregnancy anyway—and when you do drink caffeine, make sure to drink plenty of water too.
👟 Balance your electrolytes
Salt is very important for staying properly hydrated. Be sure to get plenty of healthy sea salt in your diet. That means staying away from table salt and processed foods, and instead eating real food seasoned to taste with high-quality sea salt.
In addition to salt (sodium), there are 3 other main electrolytes (potassium, magnesium, and calcium) necessary to keep you adequately hydrated. It’s important to keep these electrolytes in the proper balance.
For example, too much salt without enough potassium can cause heart problems. That’s why balancing the electrolytes is usually more important than adding just salt to your diet. You can get these electrolytes in this liquid supplement form, in a powder form, or from food (some suggestions below).
👟 Exercise regularly
Though exercise can cause some edema (have you ever noticed your hands get puffy after a workout?), its benefits are much greater. Regular exercise optimizes the circulatory system so that excess water doesn’t pool in the legs or hands.
👟 Optimize your diet
In addition to a healthy pregnancy diet, edema can benefit from a high-protein and high-salt diet, known as the Brewer’s diet. (I know, seems counterintuitive!) Protein in the blood acts as a sponge to hold water inside blood vessels. When there is not enough protein, fluid leaks out of the blood vessels and into the surrounding tissue.
We know that salt is important in keeping fluid in the blood rather than in the tissue, so the combination of the two is an excellent way to manage feet swelling during pregnancy.
Dr. Brewer had great success working with patients with edema, toxemia and preeclampsia with his diet and protocol. Always check with your doctor before making any diet or supplement changes.
👟 Apple cider vinegar
Mix a tablespoon of apple cider vinegar with a cup or two of water, and drink twice a day. ACV is high in potassium, which can help balance your electrolytes.
👟 Magnesium oil or salt bath
Spray your inner arms and legs with this magnesium oil spray per the label’s instructions (again, check with doctor before using.) Place a cup of magnesium flakes into your bath water. Magnesium is best absorbed through the skin, so this is a great way to increase your magnesium levels.
👟 Use a skin brush
This skin brush supports the circulatory system that can help relieve mild cases of edema. Start at feet and brush upward toward the heart. You can then start brush at hands and brush upward toward the heart. This will help move fluid throughout the lymph system and support blood circulation. Do this skin brushing twice per day.
👟 Swimming
Just like water helps with birth, water can also help relieve the pull of gravity on the fluids in your body.
👟 Electrolyte drink
You can try this elecrolyte drink or sip on coconut water with a dash of sea salt.
When should I be worried about feet swelling during pregnancy?
Though edema in pregnancy is incredibly common and normal, it may also be a sign of preeclampsia. If you are having any swelling at all, you should let your health provider know right away. Swelling on its own doesn’t mean you are developing preeclampsia, but it is one of the markers for the condition, so it’s important that your practitioner knows about it to assess other related signs and symptoms.
Other warning signs of preeclampsia:
- Swelling that comes on suddenly
- Excessive swelling in the face
- Ashen appearance
- Skin pitting (when you press on the swollen area and it doesn’t bounce back)
- High blood pressure
- Severe headaches
- Changes in vision
- Upper abdominal pain, usually under your ribs on the right side
- Nausea or vomiting
- Decreased urine output
That being said, the natural remedies discussed above are usually still OK to try even if you have preeclampsia, as the swelling is just a symptom that needs to be managed. The Brewer’s Diet is particularly helpful for preeclampsia. But as always, check with your healthcare provider to see whether it’s safe for you to try any of these home remedies if you are developing preeclampsia.
Swollen feet during pregnancy, what’s the bottom line?
If you have swollen feet while pregnant, there’s no reason to be too concerned. It’s normal and can be treated easily with home remedies.
Keep your practitioner in the loop on your swelling just in case, and keep an eye out for other signs of a problem, like preeclampsia. Chances are, it’s just the normal swelling of pregnancy, but better safe than sorry!
SOURCE: Mamanatural
http://www.webmd.com/heart-disease/heart-failure/edema-overview
http://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/preeclampsia/basics/symptoms/con-20031644
http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC1360273/
Red-Light Foods
During your pregnancy there are a few things that might stress you out, but eating shouldn't be one of them. Unfortunately, all of the advice you hear -- from friends, family, and yes, even total strangers -- about what is and isn't safe during pregnancy is enough to confuse anyone. "There are a lot of old wives' tales out there," says Elizabeth Ward, RD, of Reading, Massachusetts. So if you're wondering what's okay to eat (and whether you have to give your favorite foods the boot for nine months), check out our guide.
Foods to Avoid
Why are some foods off-limits when you're pregnant -- but fine if you're not? First, changes to your immune system now make you more vulnerable to food-borne illnesses. What would've meant stomach upset before could mean serious complications now -- from dehydration to miscarriage.
So to be safe, avoid the common culprits of food-borne illness:
Eggs: Because raw eggs may be tainted with salmonella, a bacterium that can cause fever, vomiting, and diarrhea, watch out for restaurant-made Caesar salad dressing, homemade eggnog, raw cookie dough, and soft scrambled or sunny-side up eggs -- any dish in which the eggs (both yolk and white) are not cooked completely. "If eggs are cooked, the risk is gone," adds Madeleine Sigman-Grant, PhD, maternal child health and nutrition extension specialist at the University of Nevada.
Sushi: With the exception of California rolls and other cooked items, sushi is not safe when you're expecting, either, because it may contain illness-inducing parasites.
Unpasteurized Juice: Stay away from juice (like cider) sold at farm stands; it may not have undergone pasteurization, a processing method that kills bacteria and toxins. Though the majority of milk and juices sold in stores today are pasteurized, there are still some brands on shelves that aren't, so read labels.
Other foods are unsafe due to possible contaminants that can harm the fetus:
Some Varieties of Fish: Fish, which boasts omega-3 fatty acids that help baby's brain development, is a great meal choice right now. But some varieties should be shunned due to high levels of methyl-mercury, a pollutant that can affect baby's nervous system. These include swordfish, shark, and tilefish -- all big species that live longer, accumulating more mercury in their flesh. (You may want to avoid these fish entirely during your childbearing years because your body stores mercury for up to four years, Ward advises.)
In fact, most types of fish contain traces of mercury, so you'll want to limit your weekly consumption of safer varieties too. According to the newest guidelines from the FDA, you can enjoy up to 12 ounces a week (roughly two meals) of lower-mercury fish such as salmon, catfish, pollack, shrimp, and canned light tuna. Of those 12 ounces, only 6 should come from canned "white" albacore tuna, which tends to contain more mercury than light tuna. If you're eating fish caught in local waters, check online with your state's department of health for advisories (if you can't find any information, limit yourself to 6 ounces).
Yellow-Light Foods
Some foods are fine in small amounts, but don't go overboard.
High Levels of Caffeine: When it comes to caffeine, "the studies can be very confusing," says Sigman-Grant. While one small study did link caffeine to increased health risks in the fetus, stronger studies have shown that caffeine is not harmful in moderate amounts. So currently the guidelines suggest no more than 300 milligrams per day, roughly the amount found in two or three 8-ounce cups of coffee. And that comes as a relief to many moms-to-be. Stephanie McClure, a mother of two, in Westerville, Ohio, had a terrible time going cold turkey. "After a few months I went to my doctor and asked if there was any way I could have just a little bit of coffee," remembers McClure, who says her doctor gave the okay for a couple of cups a day. "I immediately ran to Starbucks and ordered a mocha latte."
Nitrate-Rich Foods: It's also smart to go easy on hot dogs (which should always be eaten cooked) and cured meats such as bacon and sausage. These contain nitrates, additives that have been called into question for possible links to brain tumors and diabetes. Although studies aren't conclusive, it makes sense to limit your consumption -- these foods aren't great nutritional choices anyway. What about your beloved diet sodas? They're considered safe during pregnancy and, beyond not being a stellar nutritional choice, there's no scientific evidence that they cause harm. But on the downside, at least one artificial sweetener (saccharin) that's often found in diet sodas does cross the placenta, and artificially sweetened drinks are usually low in nutritional value. So again, we recommend moderation.
Green-Light Foods
Good news! A few foods you may have thought were forbidden actually aren't.
Soft Cheeses: Soft cheeses such as Brie, feta, and Gorgonzola were once considered potentially harmful because they can harbor listeria. Listeriosis, an illness caused by the bacteria listeria, can be passed to the fetus, leading to miscarriage, premature delivery, or stillbirth. However, the FDA now allows soft cheese during pregnancy, as long as it's made with pasteurized milk. Most cheese sold in the United States is, but "don't ever take that for granted," says Ward. It's still important to check labels, especially with imported brands. If you live in a border state, steer clear of soft Mexican cheeses like queso blanco in markets (they aren't typically pasteurized).
Cooked Deli Meats: When Jennifer Vito, a mom in San Antonio, heard that deli meat was also off-limits because of listeriosis concerns, she found it difficult to eliminate it when she was expecting. "If I can't have deli meat, what am I supposed to eat for lunch?" she says. "I ate a lot of peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and snacked on veggies." But deli meat is fine during pregnancy as long as you heat it first to kill bacteria (pop your sandwich in the microwave or order a hot or toasted sandwich at the deli -- just make sure the meat is steaming before you eat it). "It's a pain to heat it, but it would be worse to get listeriosis," says Ward. If you would prefer to pass on deli meat, try other high-protein lunches like a veggie burger, a bean burrito, or chicken salad made with some leftover grilled chicken breast and low-fat mayo.
Fresh Produce: Finally, fruits and veggies should be a staple in your diet, especially during pregnancy, because they're high in vitamins and fiber. But take a few commonsense precautions: Rewash bagged lettuce (even if the label says it's triple-washed) to wash away any possible traces of salmonella or E. coli. In fact, you should wash the outside of all fruits and vegetables -- even if you're not going to eat the skin. "Otherwise you drag the germs into the flesh when you cut it," says Sigman-Grant.
But what's the bottom-line best advice on what to eat these nine months? Mix it up. "Don't rely on the same foods every day," Sigman-Grant says. "You dramatically diminish your risk of being exposed to something harmful if you eat a variety." What's more, by varying your diet, you'll also deliver a healthy mix of nutrients to your growing baby.
The News on Alcohol
Alcohol has long been considered a no-no during pregnancy. But many doctors still advise their patients that an occasional drink is okay. "My doctor told me I could have up to 4 ounces of red wine once or twice a week and that it would actually be good for me," remembers Amy Quinn, a mom in Mullica Hill, New Jersey. So have the rules on drinking changed?
Absolutely not, warn many experts. Heavy drinking can lead to Fetal Alcohol Syndrome (FAS), which causes mental retardation and a host of abnormalities. But according to the March of Dimes, even moderate drinking may lead to more subtle physical and mental damage. And because no one knows exactly what amount of alcohol causes FAS, it's smart to steer clear.
Sally Kuzemchak is a registered dietitian and writer in Columbus, Ohio.
The information on this Web site is designed for educational purposes only. It is not intended to be a substitute for informed medical advice or care. You should not use this information to diagnose or treat any health problems or illnesses without consulting your pediatrician or family doctor. Please consult a doctor with any questions or concerns you might have regarding your or your child's condition.
SOURCE: Parents.com
Learn the causes of abdominal pain during pregnancy and find out whether your symptoms are normal or require immediate attention from your doctor.
Some abdominal pain during pregnancy is normal: After all, your organs are constantly shifting, your uterus is expanding, and your ligaments are stretching. And let's not forget morning sickness. But abdominal pain during pregnancy can be much more serious (though much rarer). Consult our guide to learn how to decode your aches and pains, determine when it's time to call the doctor, and get simple symptom soothers.
What are some harmless causes of abdominal pain during pregnancy?
From constipation to round ligament pain, here are some common culprits that cause benign abdominal aches and pains during pregnancy. If the pain you're experiencing continues, or if you have symptoms such as bleeding or strong cramping, check in with your ob-gyn.
Your growing uterus
As your uterus grows, it displaces your bowel, "which can lead to nausea, a sense of feeling full easily, or distention in your abdomen," says Patrick Duff, M.D., professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the University of Florida at Gainesville. The solution? Eat more frequent, smaller meals, exercise regularly, get rest, and empty your bladder often.
Round ligament pain
"Sometimes as the uterus enlarges, it stretches the round ligaments--two big ligaments that travel off the front of the uterus and down into the groin," Dr. Duff says. You may feel this as lower abdominal discomfort that radiates into the groin; it may be sharp and stabbing when you change positions or dull and achy. It usually begins in the second trimester and will resolve on its own, but if you're extremely uncomfortable ask your ob-gyn if you can take acetaminophen.
Constipation and gas
Constipation and gas are, unfortunately, often part and parcel of pregnancy. Progesterone, a hormone that increases during pregnancy, slows down your entire gastrointestinal tract, making foods travel more slowly through it. To combat constipation, drink plenty of water and eat fiber-rich foods. If that doesn't relieve the problem, your midwife or ob-gyn may recommend a stool softener or a fiber supplement.
Braxton Hicks contractions
"Braxton Hicks contractions are not associated with dilation of the cervix," Dr. Duff says. "They are annoying, but totally benign." The trick is to differentiate these "practice contractions" from real premature labor. "True contractions tend to get closer and closer together," Dr. Duff says. "If someone can carry on a conversation, watch television, or read, then the contractions are probably not real labor." Dehydration can trigger Braxton Hicks contractions, so be sure to drink plenty of fluids. If the contractions persist, or you're not sure whether they're Braxton Hicks or true contractions, call your ob-gyn.
What are more serious cases of abdominal pain during pregnancy?
Many women have healthy pregnancies, but serious complications can develop that require immediate attention from your ob-gyn. Some red flags to watch out for include bleeding, severe pain, fever, and visual disturbances.
Ectopic pregnancy
Ectopic or tubal pregnancies, in which the egg implants someplace other than the uterus, most often in the fallopian tube, occur in 1 in 50 pregnancies, according to the March of Dimes. In the unlikely event that you have an ectopic pregnancy, you may experience intense pain and bleeding between your 6th and 10th weeks of pregnancy, as the tube becomes distended. Women at increased risk for an ectopic pregnancy include those who have had an ectopic pregnancy in the past, or have had pelvic, abdominal, fallopian tube surgery, and those who have had endometriosis, a tubal ligation, an intrauterine device (IUD) in place at the time of conception, or a pelvic infection. An abnormally shaped uterus and the use of artificial reproductive techniques also seem to increase the risk.
Ectopic pregnancies cannot continue and require immediate treatment. If you had a positive pregnancy test but have not yet had your pregnancy confirmed by a medical exam, and you experience abdominal pain, you should be evaluated immediately by your ob-gyn, says Linda Chambliss, M.D., chief of obstetrics at St. Joseph's Hospital and Medical Center in Phoenix. Your ob-gyn or midwife can perform an ultrasound to confirm whether the egg has implanted in the uterus.
Miscarriage
When women experience abdominal pain in the first trimester, "you always have to be concerned about miscarriage," Dr. Duff says, because the unfortunate fact is that 15 to 20 percent of pregnancies end in miscarriage. Symptoms of miscarriage include bleeding and cramping that can be rhythmic or resemble menstrual cramps.
Preterm labor
If you're experiencing regular contractions before you're 37 weeks pregnant, and you have a persistent backache, you could be having preterm labor. Now is not the time to wait it out--call your ob-gyn right away. The contractions may or may not be accompanied by leaking vaginal fluid or blood or a decrease in fetal movement. Even experienced pros on their third pregnancy may not be able to tell if contractions are just Braxton Hicks or true preterm labor, Dr. Chambliss says, so she asks her patients to call anytime they feel contractions. You may end up being sent home because it's a false alarm (Dr. Chambliss says that up to 30 percent of the women who show up in her triage unit are), but it's better to be safe than sorry, especially in this case.
Placental abruption
Your placenta is the source of oxygen and nutrients for your baby. It usually implants high on the uterine wall and doesn't detach until after your baby is born. In rare cases (1 out of every 200 births), the placenta can separate from the uterine wall, a dangerous complication, which is most common in the third trimester. Dr. Duff describes the pain from a placental abruption as "severe, constant, progressively worsening lower abdomen pain." Your uterus may become rock hard (if you press on the abdomen, it won't indent) and you may also have dark, red blood that does not have clots. In some cases, a woman may go into labor when her placenta separates, in which case her ob-gyn will usually deliver the baby by emergency cesarean section. If the abruption is mild, a doctor may allow the pregnancy to continue or may induce labor and do a vaginal delivery. Women at risk for this condition include those who have a history of placental abruption, or who have high blood pressure, preeclampsia, and abdominal trauma.
Preeclampsia
According to the Preeclampsia Foundation of America, preeclampsia and other hypertensive disorders are experienced by 5 to 8 percent of all pregnant women. Preeclampsia can develop anytime after 20 weeks of pregnancy, which is one reason why your doctor checks your blood pressure at every appointment, and it is characterized by high blood pressure and protein in the urine. Because high blood pressure constricts the vessels in the uterus that supply the fetus with oxygen and nutrients, the baby's growth may be slowed. Preeclampsia also increases the risk of placental abruption, in which the placenta separates from the uterine wall before delivery. When preeclampsia is severe, it can be accompanied by pain in the upper right portion of your abdomen as well as nausea, headaches, swelling, and visual disturbances, such as flashing lights. It you suspect that you have preeclampsia, call your ob-gyn immediately.
Urinary Tract Infection (UTI)
Up to 10 percent of expectant moms will get a urinary tract infection (UTI) at some point during their pregnancy, according to the March of Dimes. Typical symptoms include a sudden urge to urinate, pain or burning with urination, and bloody urination--but some patients with a UTI also experience abdominal pain, Dr. Chambliss says. "The concern with UTIs during pregnancy is that they can progress to an infection in your kidneys that will increase your risk of preterm labor," she adds. That's one reason why your ob-gyn tests your urine every visit, to check for the signs of bacteria that can lead to a UTI. The good news is that if a UTI is caught early it should be easy to treat with antibiotics.
Appendicitis
Appendicitis can be difficult to diagnose in pregnancy, says Dr. Duff, because "as the uterus enlarges, the appendix pulls up and can get up near the belly button or liver. That atypical presentation gives us a curve ball." And because a diagnosis can be delayed, it's one of the reasons a woman is at greater risk of dying from appendicitis during pregnancy. Although the usual hallmark of appendicitis is pain in the lower right quadrant of your abdomen, when you're pregnant you may feel it higher up. Other symptoms include lack of appetite, nausea, and vomiting.
Gallstones
Stones in the gallbladder are more common in women, especially if they are overweight, over the age of 35, or have a history of stones, Dr. Chambliss says. The pain from gallstones (also called cholecystitis) is severe and focused in the upper right quadrant of your abdomen. In some cases, the pain may also radiate around to your back and under your right shoulder blade.
When should I call my ob-gyn?
Don't hesitate to call your doctor if you feel like something's not quite right. "If you have anything that you're concerned about you should contact your ob-gyn or be seen," says Rebecca Shiffman, M.D., director of Maternal Fetal Medicine at Lincoln Hospital in Bronx, New York. "That's what we're here for--to provide answers to pregnant women and to provide whatever care they need." Always call your doctor right away if you have any of these symptoms:
- Abdominal pain with or without bleeding before 12 weeks
- Bleeding or strong cramping
- More than four contractions in an hour for two hours
- Severe abdominal pain
- Visual disturbances
- Severe headache
- Severe swelling of the hands, legs, or face
- Pain during urination, difficulty urinating, or blood in your urine
Is there anything I can do to help ease abdominal discomfort during pregnancy?
- Eat small, frequent meals
- Exercise regularly, in moderation
- Choose fiber-rich foods (including fruits, vegetables, and bran)
- Drink plenty of water
- Empty your bladder often
- Rest as often as you can
Image: ChameleonsEye/Shutterstock
SOURCE: Parents.com
Trust us, we feel your pain. You can blame these not-so-fun pregnancy symptoms largely on the hormones your body is producing (what else is new?), specifically all the estrogen and progesterone. Your body’s making more of both now to relax smooth muscle tissue. Unfortunately, this causes your gastrointestinal tract to relax a little too much, leading to side effects like bloating, indigestion, constipation, stomachaches and, yes, all that horrific gas you’ve been having lately.
But sadly, you can’t blame it all on the hormones. Believe it or not you could actually be adding to your own discomfort just by what you’re eating or what you wear. Here’s a list of the most common causes of bloating and indigestion during pregnancy.
See if you’re guilty of a few of them (or all of them!):
• Eating greasy, fatty, or highly seasoned foods
• Eating or drinking too much caffeine—chocolate, soda, coffee, or other drinks
• Eating big meals
• Eating too fast
• Lying down/not moving much after eating
• Wearing restricting clothing
Sound familiar? Try these tips to help cut back on the bloating:
• Eat several small meals throughout the day
• Pace yourself while eating and drink less during each meal
• Drink water throughout the day and avoid caffeinated drinks
• Try to avoid lying down following a meal. But if you’re totally pooped, at least prop up your upper body with some pillows when you lie down.
• Wear loose and comfy clothing
If you’re still suffering, talk to your doctor immediately to see if maybe something else is to blame.
SOURCE: Thebump
When you're expecting a baby, any kind of bleeding or spotting is unnerving. Learn the causes of bleeding during pregnancy, and what you should do it if happens to you.
Any type of bleeding is terrifying during pregnancy, even for the most level-headed mom-to-be. The good news: Although spotting occurs in nearly one-third of all pregnancies, it often poses no threat to mom or baby. It's common for a small percentage of pregnant women to have spotting after intercourse, for example, and others may have bleeding for reasons that have nothing to do with pregnancy, such as infections or tears to the vaginal wall. "The vast majority of spotting is harmless," says Alyssa Stephenson-Famy, M.D., Maternal-Fetal Medicine Specialist at the University of Washington, Seattle. But bleeding, no matter how scant, can be indicative of a variety of complications, including miscarriage, ectopic pregnancy, and placenta previa, and thus should never be ignored. Here are the various reasons you may experience bleeding during your pregnancy, as well as tips for effectively communicating your symptoms to your ob-gyn.
The First 20 Weeks
Doctors estimate that 25 to 40 percent of women will experience some vaginal bleeding during the first trimester of their pregnancy, and more often than not the pregnancy will progress totally normally, Dr. Stephenson-Famy says. According to the American Pregnancy Association, there are a number of possible causes of innocuous spotting or bleeding in the first half of pregnancy, including:
- Implantation bleeding, which occurs about 4 weeks into your pregnancy as the fertilized egg attaches to your uterine wall.
- Hormonal changes
- Sexual intercourse
- Infections
- Internal exam done by your obstetrician or midwife
Sometimes bleeding during the first half of your pregnancy can be a sign of a more serious condition, however, such as:
- Subchorionic hemorrhage, which is bleeding around the placenta. Although it is possible to continue with a normal pregnancy after this type of bleeding occurs, prompt diagnosis and treatment is vital. "Most subchorionic hemorrhages resolve, but it does put the woman at an increased risk for other complications such as preterm labor," Dr. Stephenson-Famy says.
- Chemical pregnancy, which occurs when an egg is fertilized but never fully implants in the uterus.
- Miscarriage (either threatened or imminent), which is the spontaneous loss of a pregnancy in the first 20 weeks. Often, the bleeding or spotting that occurs during a miscarriage will be accompanied by other symptoms, such as cramping or abdominal pain.
- Ectopic pregnancy, which occurs when a fertilized egg implants somewhere other than the uterus, most often in a fallopian tube. Sometimes called a tubal pregnancy, an ectopic pregnancy cannot progress normally and may be life-threatening to the mother if left undiagnosed.
- Molar pregnancy, a nonviable pregnancy characterized by an abnormal growth on the placenta, and, usually, an abnormal fetus.
Bottom line: Any vaginal bleeding during pregnancy can be a symptom of a larger problem, so it's important that you call your doctor right away. Be prepared to give information about the amount of blood you've lost and a description of how you're feeling overall, advises Laura Riley, M.D., author of Pregnancy: The Ultimate Week-by-Week Pregnancy Guide. Dr. Riley says you should insist on being seen if you have any vaginal bleeding that makes you feel faint or soaks through a sanitary pad. You should also be seen if the bleeding is persistent or accompanied by pain or a fever.
The Last 20 Weeks
Although the risk of miscarriage (known as a stillbirth after the first 20 weeks) diminishes greatly after the first trimester, and many of the early complications are no longer a factor (such as ectopic and molar pregnancies), bleeding during the second half of pregnancy should be taken very seriously, especially if it's ongoing, Dr. Stephenson-Famy says. Causes for bleeding in the second half of pregnancy include:
- Sexual intercourse
- Cervical checks, especially late in the third trimester when they become more frequent
- Placenta previa, which is when the placenta covers the cervix either partially or completely
- Placental abruption, in which the placenta tears away from the wall of the uterus, can cause severe vaginal bleeding and is life-threatening to both Mom and Baby. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, a placental abruption is the most common cause of serious bleeding during late pregnancy. The condition is rare, and occurs only in about one percent of all pregnancies.
- Preterm labor, in which vaginal bleeding is accompanied by cramping or contractions, diarrhea, pelvic pressure, or back pain before 37 weeks, could have serious repercussions for the baby if not managed. After 37 weeks, these symptoms could be a normal start to labor.
Bottom line: No matter when it occurs, any bleeding during pregnancy warrants a phone call to your doctor or midwife, even if only to confirm nothing is amiss. Be prepared to answer detailed questions about the color, amount, and timing of blood in order to best help your practitioner determine the possible cause.
Image: xusenru-1829710/Pixabay
SOURCE: Parents.com
Black eyes, dark hair… I was picturing how my son would look once I finally got to meet him. Later in the day, I read reviews on strollers I’d been meaning to research. Which reminded me to pick out a few more onesies at the baby store.
Sounds fun, except… I was at work. The file on the computer I was supposed to be working on was still glaring at me. Instead of fonts and layouts, I was looking at gender prediction charts and researching which fish is safe to eat.
If you can relate, read on.
Because even if you love your job, pregnancy is on our minds. We can’t focus. We feel our productivity sliding, and it doesn’t help we’re uncomfortable from the general fatigue of being pregnant.
You know you need to get a grip, but how can you keep up at work when you’re always distracted?
How to keep up at work during pregnancy
With so many distractions these days, staying focused is getting harder than ever. Social media, email, coworkers dropping by… even a non-pregnant employee struggles with concentration. Add to that a pregnancy that takes your attention away, and it can be hard to keep up at work.
What are a few ways you can bring focus into your work, even if you’re pregnant?
1. Schedule your day, including downtime
Downtime and social media aren’t the evils of the world. I’m not proposing we stay away completely from them. They have their place in our lives, but only when we define boundaries around them.
Try this: schedule your day, including downtime. Write exactly what you plan to do during your work hours, from lunch breaks to meetings. Then, schedule your downtime for researching strollers and making doctor’s appointments.
Cal Newport, author of Deep Work: Rules for Focused Success in a Distracted World, says:
Schedule in advance when you’ll use the Internet, and then avoid it altogether outside these times. I suggest that you keep a notepad near your computer at work. On this pad, record the time you’re allowed to use the Internet. Until you arrive at that time, absolutely no network connectivity is allowed—no matter how tempting.
Scheduling downtime makes the rest of your day more productive. You’d be surprised how much time you waste when you’re juggling work with your personal life.
Instead, when you’re working, work. Then go crazy finding those paint chip colors for the nursery during the time you’ve given yourself.
2. Set reminders on your calendar
Many digital calendars sync with other programs to remind you of your tasks. If you accepted a meeting with a coworker, set your calendar so it adds that meeting for you. Better yet, set it so it sends you reminders long before as well as close to when the meeting starts.
3. Know your most productive times
Did you know willpower is finite? The way we talk about willpower, you’d think it has more to do with our personality or our motivation. Researchers are finding that willpower depletes throughout the day. No one wakes up in the morning and says, “Well, I give up on my diet—give me that banana split sundae for breakfast.”
We all have our productive times, and it’s usually in the mornings. I was lucky: my work schedule means I’m in the office at 7am. I’m able to crank out so much work before anyone else comes in compared to the rest of my day.
Use your productive times to do your most challenging projects. You’ll resist distractions for your important tasks when your willpower is fully loaded.
4. Give yourself deadlines
I’m not a fan of last-minute projects. These rush projects are more likely to be poor in quality with tons of mistakes. But I am a fan of deadlines, particularly challenging ones that push you to get things done.
Imagine you had to write a ten-page report, and you had three weeks to do it. You’ll probably waste time drawing it out longer than it needs to be. But what if you gave yourself two days to draft, write and polish the report?
Sometimes, more time isn’t a good idea. Parkinson’s law states:
Work expands so as to fill the time available for its completion.
You’ll push yourself to get things done when you know you only have a limited to complete them. Even if you don’t have a set deadline for a project, make one for yourself. If the deadline is too far in the future, break it up piece by piece so you have regular deadlines.
Set a challenging but realistic deadline to push yourself to get it done. Some moms even add self-imposed deadlines by taking a day off before they need to finish a project. Having Friday off is enough of a push for them to finish their tasks in four days instead of five.
5. Recharge with stretch breaks
As I’m sure you know by now, pregnancy comes with its own challenges. Whether you’re slugging through the first trimester or nearing the end, it’s tough to work and be pregnant.
Use your breaks to recharge. You’re already getting up many times to use the restroom or grab some water. This time, make it purposeful. Concentrate hard when you’re at your desk, then use those breaks for your body and mind. Gather your focus, stretch your body, and steer yourself back to your projects when you’re ready.
6. Plan for the next day
Having a plan is key when you want to keep up at work. Before you dash out at the end of the day, spend the last 15 minutes writing your tasks for tomorrow. Combine this task with time blocking your calendar. Write any meetings you need to attend and the important tasks you should do first.
When you come in the next morning, you won’t waste time wondering what to do. You’ll already have a plan in place. Most important, you’ll know where in your day your most important work sits.
Then, outline every to-do list, placing time limits on each one. Decide whether these tasks are even important or if you even need to go to those meetings (would a quick one-on-one recap work better?). Taking these extra steps now will avoid wasted time reviewing them the next day.
Conclusion
Staying focused at work can be challenging even for the regular employee. Add pregnancy to the mix, and it’s no wonder many moms find it hard to keep up at work. But by practicing the tips above, you’ll avoid wasting time and remain productive.
Even as you’re daydreaming out the window about your baby’s eye color.
Image: dianaforsberg92-3774697/Pixabay
SOURCE: Sleepingshouldbeeasy
