Most women with normal BMI gain about 22 to 28 pounds during pregnancy. However, while expecting twins, the recommended weight gain is higher. Pregnancy is a unique time during which the body undergoes multiple changes. Pregnant women experience changes in their moods, skin, joints, and body weight. The weight gain occurs as the result of...
What is a mucus plug? Losing your mucus plug might be a sign you are about to go into labor (childbirth). When labor nears, the cervix starts to open wider, discharging the mucus into the vagina. During pregnancy, a mucus plug accumulates at the cervix (the canal between the uterus and vagina). The mucus plug...
What is an IUD? Getting an IUD is generally not excessively painful. An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small T-shaped birth control device, about the size of a quarter, that is placed inside a woman’s uterus to prevent pregnancy. It is a reversible contraceptive, meaning it can be removed if pregnancy is desired. IUDs are...
What is morning sickness? Morning sickness is a common side effect in pregnancy. Morning sickness occurs in the first trimester and can be an early sign of pregnancy. Morning sickness is a common side effect of pregnancy. Sometimes you can get morning sickness before you know you are pregnant. Typically, morning sickness starts in the...
Insisting on VBAC may put both you and your baby at risk Vaginal birth after cesarean delivery (VBAC) is possible for many women, but it depends on many factors. Insisting on VBAC may put both you and your baby at risk; hence, you need to discuss the pros and cons with your doctor. The following...
Heartburn during pregnancy Heartburn (acid reflux) is caused by stomach acid that is forced back up into the esophagus causing a burning pain in the chest. Spicy foods are a common cause but hormonal changes and a growing uterus during pregancy are also causes. Symptoms include bloating, burping, and a bitter or sour taste in...
Facts you should know about hypothyroidism during pregnancy Readers Comments 6 Share Your Story Pregnant women who are on thyroid hormone should have frequent blood testing. Hypothyroidism, wherein the thyroid gland produces an inadequate amount of thyroid hormone, is a common disorder, particularly in women of childbearing age. Hypothyroidism of the mother during pregnancy may...
Gas pains are a common side effect that you can expect when you’re expecting. You have a lot less room in your abdomen than you did before. The hormone fluctuations you’re going through don’t help either. Progesterone is one of the main culprits of gas buildup in pregnancies because it relaxes the digestive tract muscles...
How is a Bakri balloon placed? A Bakri balloon is used to stop excessive bleeding after childbirth. A Bakri balloon is used in the management of excessive bleeding after childbirth (postpartum hemorrhage). Bakri balloon placement after vaginal delivery involves the following Before inserting the balloon, the physician ensures to empty the patient’s bladder by placing...
What is a late period? A late period is when a woman's menstrual cycle doesn't start as expected, with a normal cycle lasting between 24 to 38 days. When a woman's period is seven days late she may be pregnant although other things may cause a late or skipped period. If your period is late...