Many mothers are not sure whether they can resort to breastfeeding during pregnancy or whether they should wean away. Their doubts are reinforced by the feelings of most of their relatives and friends that breastfeeding during pregnancy might be harmful to the health of the unborn child. However, it has not been conclusively proved that the unborn child might be deprived of essential nutrients if the mother resorts to breastfeeding during pregnancy.

As regards uterine contractions, which are experienced during breastfeeding, the Breastfeeding Answer Book specifically points out that even when sexual activity is performed during pregnancy, uterine contractions do take place and they pose no threat to the health of the pregnant woman. Moreover, there are many divergent views regarding the situations in which breastfeeding during pregnancy might be harmful.

Precautions To Be Taken If You Wish To Breastfeed When You Are Pregnant

If you resort to breastfeeding when you are pregnant, you should ensure that you are comfortably lying down on a mattress on the floor so that you remain comfortable even when your baby moves away to play. Moreover, you should take care that the child is lying in the right position for breastfeeding if you develop tender nipples during your pregnancy. Learning proper breathing techniques can help you cope with the sensitivity created by the tender nipples and to tackle your restlessness while the child is suckling. Making your child nurse more gently and for a shorter time period will also help.

If you find that the weight of your breastfeeding baby is decreasing, you should investigate whether your milk supply decreases are taking place, which normally happen to breastfeeding mothers during the fourth or fifth month of pregnancy. Moreover, since the taste of the milk also changes, the nursing babies might not be taking the full amount of milk and might be weaning.

How To Make Your Toddler Wean During Your Pregnancy

The most common method is to proceed slowly and not offer any breast milk till the toddler asks for it. Even when the child asks for milk, you can distract it by offering a snack. You should also keep away from your usual nursing chair and offer plenty of love to the child by way of hugs and physical attention.

It is entirely up to the mother to decide whether she wishes to allow the older child to continue breastfeeding after the new baby is born. If the older child insists, the mother can try offering her milk in a spoon or in a cup. If, however, the mother feels comfortable in nursing both her children, she can continue doing so in a “tandem nursing” fashion.

Breastfeeding As A Contraceptive

Not many people know that up to about six months after the birth of a child, breastfeeding is almost completely effective as a natural contraceptive provided the mother is not menstruating. As such, if you are breastfeeding after childbirth, you are not likely to get pregnant that easily. However, certain mothers do get pregnant again and for them it can be a wonderful feeling of having a baby in their womb and another baby breastfeeding during pregnancy.

By: Anupriya Jain

About the Author:

Apurva Shree posted:

Weekly Pregnancy Calendar – Know The Importance

Before we start talking about the weekly pregnancy calendar let us understand what is a pregnancy calendar and why do one need to use it. A weekly pregnancy calendar is a week-by-week record of the early pregnancy symptom, pregnancy symptom and other sign of pregnancy. With the help of the weekly pregnancy calendar you can easily understand regarding the changes in the body of the pregnant woman along with the changes in the embryo or fetus in the pregnancy period. It will give you the weekly detail of these changes taking place in the pregnant woman. By learning about the weekly pregnancy calendar you also come to know that there are so many facts that you need to understand about the baby and you yourself as well.

How To Calculate The Weekly Pregnancy Calendar?

First of all we should understand the method of calculating the weekly pregnancy calendar. It is the date of your last menstrual period that marks the beginning of the weekly pregnancy calendar. This is the date that is also used for the doctors for predicting the probable date of the birth of the child. This shows us that how important the weekly pregnancy calendar has become in our lives. Naturally, the very first question that strikes our mind after the pregnancy is confirmed is that what is the due date at which the new child will arrive in this world. This date is approximately forty weeks from the arrival of your last period.

Helps In Keeping The Record Of The Development of The Baby

However, we should not assume that the due date predicted with the help of the weekly pregnancy calendar is flawlessly accurate. This is because it is just an indication when the child will arrive. The actually date of the delivery may vary anywhere between the 38th week and 42nd week after the last period. In addition to the prediction of the due date weekly pregnancy calendar also helps in keeping track of the development of the baby along with the mother.

Understanding The Term Trimester

While understanding the weekly pregnancy calendar we should also know about the terms semester or trimester used while describing the weekly pregnancy calendar. A semester or trimester refers to one of the total three parts in which the overall period of pregnancy is divided. The period from the first week of the pregnancy to the twelfth week is called the first trimester. Second trimester is the period of pregnancy from the thirteenth week to the twenty-sixth week. The period from the twenty-sixth week to the birth of the child is known as the third trimester. The period between the 39th week and the 42nd week is also called the critical period.

Saurabh Jain asked:

Before we start talking about the weekly pregnancy calendar let us understand what is a pregnancy calendar and why do one need to use it. A weekly pregnancy calendar is a week-by-week record of the early pregnancy symptom, pregnancy symptom and other sign of pregnancy. With the help of this calendar you can easily understand regarding the changes in the body of the pregnant woman along with the changes in the embryo or fetus in the pregnancy period. It will give you the weekly detail of these changes taking place in the pregnant woman. By learning about this calendar you also come to know that there are so many facts that you need to understand about the baby and you yourself as well.

How To Calculate The Weekly Pregnancy Calendar?

First of all we should understand the method of calculating the weekly pregnancy calendar. It is the date of your last menstrual period that marks the beginning of this calendar. This is the date that is also used for the doctors for predicting the probable date of the birth of the child. This shows us that how important is the updated information about pregnancy has become in a would be moms lives. Naturally, the very first question that strikes our mind after the pregnancy is confirmed is that what is the due date at which the new child will arrive in this world. This date is approximately forty weeks from the arrival of your last period.

Helps In Keeping The Record Of The Development of The Baby

However, we should not assume that the due date predicted with the help of the weekly pregnancy calendar is flawlessly accurate. This is because it is just an indication when the child will arrive. The actually date of the delivery may vary anywhere between the 38th week and 42nd week after the last period. In addition to the prediction of the due date weekly pregnancy calendar also helps in keeping track of the development of the baby along with the mother.

Understanding The Term Trimester

While understanding weekly pregnancy details we should also know about the terms semester or trimester used while describing this calendar. A semester or trimester refers to one of the total three parts in which the overall period of pregnancy is divided. The period from the first week of the pregnancy to the twelfth week is called the first trimester. Second trimester is the period of pregnancy from the thirteenth week to the twenty-sixth week. The period from the twenty-sixth week to the birth of the child is known as the third trimester. The period between the 39th week and the 42nd week is also called the critical period.

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Sandra Wilson posted:

Every pregnancy is unique as every child carried in the womb has distinct needs and characteristics from the other.  Pregnant mothers should seek the advice of people who are experienced and technically knowledgeable with the ins and outs of pregnancy. A weekly pregnancy guide of what happens to you and your baby will help you track the changes on your body, the development of your baby and exert extra effort in ensuring safety and health for you and your child. The most difficult question a mother must answer during pregnancy is this: “What am I supposed to do?” Uncertainties and doubts during pregnancy is usually brought about by the uniqueness of every individual condition although some general occurrences can be true to almost all mothers. Pregnancy symptoms for instance are almost true to anyone who have welcomed a soul inside their wombs. They may, however, vary in terms of degree or frequency or even effect to the mother and the child.

So, you are pregnant. What should you do? The first thing a pregnant woman should do is to celebrate! Getting pregnant is the best role for every woman in the world. The greatest achievement of a woman is to become a mother. No other success can compensate with the joy of having a baby and the wonder of carrying a new life inside your womb. Being pregnant is being aware that your primary responsibility is to keep your body ready for the new baby because whatever happens to you will affect the one inside you. It is then recommended that you are aware of the much pregnancy week information which can give you a detailed account of you and your baby’s progress. Every week for the mother is a week to look forward to because essential marks of growth can be visible. Sometimes you may find yourself tired of anticipating what happens next for your baby but if you are aware how important tracking your pregnancy is, you will never get tired of expecting something new.

Discovering that your baby from being an embryo to having developed distinct visible parts is more rewarding than receiving the most expensive gift you could ever have. Your weekly pregnancy guide is your partner in knowing what food to eat or what activities should you expect in order to ensure the best possible safety and health for your baby. Guidance on the foods you should avoid is essential. Seek advise from your parents or from those who are experienced in the field especially physicians. You can also browse through the internet websites that can provide you with pregnancy calendar that informs you of your child’s development.

Lastly, there are many pregnancy guides readily available for you. However, you should know that the success of your pregnancy can never be dictated by the doctor or the people around you. Your baby highly depends on you. The success of every pregnancy is dependent on how the mother views it and handles every delicate situation she will be into.

Every pregnancy is as different as every child developing in the womb is unique from another. However, there is nothing to be afraid of since older family members and friends and even the internet can provide you with information and guides to help you get through your pregnancy safely and comfortably.

Hannah Bajor.C.N.M.,M.S.N. Pregnancy Success & Health Coach posted:

What is implantation bleeding?

It is not unusual that some women experience implantation bleeding in the early stages of pregnancy. Any vaginal bleeding outside implantation bleeding of pregnancy is classified as a threatened miscarriage, meaning the pregnancy is threatening to miscarriage. About 25% of all pregnancies are actually miscarried but 50% of all threatened miscarriages settle down and a normal pregnancy happens.

When does implantation bleeding occur?

Implantation bleeding occurs very early in pregnancy as a direct result of the fertilized egg (your growing baby) burying and snuggling its way into the lining of your womb. Implantation bleeding occurs about 10-14 days after the egg has been fertilized or when conception occurred. This is also around the time when your menstrual cycles would be expected.

Signs of Implantation Bleeding:

Signs of implantation bleeding can vary from one pregnant woman to another. It normally mild in nature and is much lighter than a normal menstrual period.

The color of implantation bleeding:

The color of implantation bleeding can vary form bright red to brown implantation bleeding. Bright red implantation bleeding means that there is an active area of bleeding within the womb and blood is flowing from the site of implantation to the vagina very quickly. It may indicate that implantation has just occurred.

Brown implantation bleeding is the color of old blood. When you get brown implantation bleeding it normally means that when the fertilized egg buried it way into the womb, a little blood was released. The bleeding that occurred at the moment of implantation stayed in the womb for some time so by the time you see it on your underwear or when you wipe yourself it showed up as brown implantation bleeding.

How long does implantation bleeding last?

Most cases of implantation bleeding last for a few minutes to a few days. If implantation bleeding lasts more than a few days then it may be a sign of vaginal infection or a threatened miscarriage.

How heavy is implantation bleeding?

Heavy implantation bleeding is unusual. The only thing you might notice with implantation bleeding is a pinkish or brown discharge when you wipe yourself after you go to the bathroom.

Cramps with implantation bleeding:

Cramps with implantation bleeding can happen. You may even experience cramps with or without bleeding. The reason you may experience cramps with implantation bleeding is because as the fertilized egg buries into your womb, it caused the muscle of your womb to contract. These contractions press on nerve endings and may result in mild to moderate menstrual like pains for 24-48 hours.

What to do if you have signs of implantation bleeding:

Don’t panic if you have any of the above signs of implantation bleeding. Remember 50% of all cases of implantation bleeding end up in a normal pregnancy.

Know your blood type. Depending on your partner’s blood type and if you are a rhesus negative blood type then it may be necessary to have an Rh-immune globulin injection within 24 hours of any pregnancy bleeding.

If you suspect you may be pregnant and your bleeding is from implantation bleeding then do a home pregnancy test. This home test should remain positive. If it is positive and you do not know your blood Rhesus factor, then call your provider for consultation for possible Rh-immune globulin.

Never insert a tampon, douche, or have sexual intercourse while you are bleeding.

Keep track of whether the bleeding is increasing or decreasing and how many pads you are using.

If you feel your pregnancy bleeding is heavier or lasting longer than the above ranges then call your health care provider for consultation immediately.

Bleeding during pregnancy is scary. Your fear is picked up by your unborn child.  Intra uterine fear can stay with your child for a lifetime, so constantly reassure your baby that he or she is wanted and loved. Want to know more about how pregnancy is like from your babies viewpoint then check out my Birth, A Conscious Choice. at http://www.PregnancySuccessCoach.com

You may also be very interested in an amazing message that was telepathically dictated to me for humanity from my son when he was seven-weeks old. Yes you read correctly! I have the ability to communicate with baby’s emotions from inside and outside the womb. Down load this AMAZING MESSAGE FREE at http://www.PregnancySuccessCoach.com/Message_For_Humanity.html

If you wish to ask me a personal question about your pregnancy or an issue in your life then visit http://www.PregnancySuccessCoach.com/Ask_Hannah_Section.html

Hannah Bajor. C.N.M.,M.S.N.

Certified Nurse Midwife

Pregnancy Success Coach

Dr. Vandana sharma posted:

Introduction

Most often in a developing country, each minute of every day, a woman dies from complications related to pregnancy. For all women who die, 30 to 50 percent of women suffer from injury, infection, or other complication. Almost 15% complications of these are life-threatening and require immediate obstetric care. Hence, safe motherhood can be achieved by providing high-quality maternal health services to all women during pregnancy, childbirth, and during the postpartum period.

Maternal mortality

Most of the maternal mortality is due to following major medical causes:

1. Severe bleeding (hemorrhage);

2. Infection;

3. Unsafe abortion complications;

4. Hypertensive disorders of pregnancy; and

5. Obstructed labor.

Warning signs during pregnancy:

1. Failure to gain weight (at least 6 kilograms should be gained during pregnancy)

2. Anemia or paleness inside the eyelids (healthy eyelids are red or pink)

3. Unusual swelling of legs, arms or face

4. Movement of fetus being either very little or not at all.

Therefore, a pregnant woman needs to be checked at a clinic or health facility at least four times during every pregnancy. It is also important to seek the advice of a skilled birth attendant (such as a doctor, nurse or midwife), about where the baby should be born. A pregnant woman should also be properly educated so that she can take care of herself and her baby.

Still, a pregnant woman is susceptible to all those possible diseases which a normal human being can encounter. Hence, if there is any disorder during pregnancy, the situation can be best managed under the guidance of good physician.

Considering the above facts, in Ayurveda, Kashyap samhita has given two full chapters on this subject. Harita samhita has enlisted emaciation, nausea, vomiting, edema, fever, anorexia, diarrhea and discoloration etc. According to Sushruta samhita, pregnant women are prone to facial paralysis. Similarly Charaka samhita and Vagbhata also have suggested that the pressure caused by growing fetus increases in cases of piles and edema.

According to Charaka (C. 1000 B.C.), pregnant woman should be treated with soft, sweet, cold drugs, dietetics and gentle pleasing behaviour. She should not be given emetics and purgatives.

Exercise and use of pungent drugs should be avoided (Charaka Sutra sthan 25/40).

According to Harita(10-12th Cent. A.D.), unripe fruit of Bilva (Aegle marmelos Corr.) mixed with curd and sugar is always beneficial.

There are certain diseases whose treatment at the initial stage itself prevents them from becoming major disorders at a later stage. Treatments of such diseases are mentioned below:

Line of treatment in different gestational month:

During fourth month of pregnancy:  In this, if woman suffers from any disease of vata, retention of urine, pain etc. then castor oil with milk should be given (Kashyap khil sthan, 10).

During fifth month: Evacuative enema and nutritive enema containing sour, salty drug and sweet substance should be given (Kashyap khil sthan, 10).

During sixth month: In case of lymphadenitis, furunculous, inflammation, abscess, use of cauterization and surgery should be done (Kashyap khil sthan, 10).

During seventh month: If there is protuberant flesh then its suppression should be done with help of surgery or cauterization (Kashyap khil sthan, 10).

General disorder during pregnancy and their management:

1. Vomiting:

The vomiting related to pregnancy is classified as simple vomiting of pregnancy (milder type) and Hyperemesis gravidarum(severe type). Slight vomiting is common in early pregnancy (about 50%). It may however, occur at any time in day, generally occurs in morning. It does not produce any impairment of health or restrict the normal activities of women and gets disappeared with or without treatment by 12-14 weeks of pregnancy.

It could be managed by avoiding fatty and spicy foods. Patient is advised to take plenty of fluids (2.5l in 24hr.) and fruit juices.

Hyperemesis gravidarum is severe type of vomiting of pregnancy which has got deleterious effect on the health of the mother in day to day activities. The etiology is obscure but the following are the known facts:

-It is mostly limited to first trimester.

-It is most common in first pregnancy.

-It has got a familial history.

-It has more prevalence in hydatidiform mole and multiple pregnancies.

-It is more common in vata vaigunya, non-fulfillment of dauhrida stage (i.e. non fulfillment of desired substance by mother during pregnancy)

Management:

To correct the fluids, electrolytes and other metabolic disturbance.

Nutritional support with Vit.B1, B6, Vit.C and Vit.B12.

Nursing care: sympathetic but firm handling of the patient is essential.

Some useful drugs:

Paste of Dhanyaka (Coriandrum sativum Linn.) mixed with rice water and sugar should be given (Yogratnakar, Stri rog chikitsa sthan).

Flour of parched barley mixed with decoction of Sunthi (Zingiber officinale Rosc.) and Bilva (Aegle marmelos Corr.) (Yogratnakar, Stri rog chikitsa sthan ).

.2. Pre-eclamptic toxemia: It is a multi system disorder of unknown etiology characterized by development of hypertension to the extent of 140/90mm Hg or more with proteinuria after the 20th week. It may appear even before 20th week as in case of hydatidiform mole and acute poly hydramnios.

Demonstration of pitting edema over the ankles after 12hr. bed rest, rapid gain in weight of more than 1lb a week or more than 5lb a month of pregnancy may be earliest evidence of pre-Eclampsia.

There is increased association of pre-eclampsia with primigravida, family history, placental abnormalities, genetic disorder and thrombophilias.

Management: As long as the etiology is obscure the treatment is mostly empirical and symptomatic. Diet should contain adequate amount of protein (about 100gm). Usual salt intake and fluids is not restricted. Total calories approximate 1600 cal/day.

In favorable cases, there is fall of blood pressure and weight with subsidence of edema. Urinary output increases with diminishing proteinuria, if previously present.

In unfavorable cases, the definitive treatment of pre-eclampsia is termination pregnancy through which mother could be saved.

3. Eclampsia:

Pre-eclampsia when complicated with convulsion and /or coma is called as eclampsia. The causes of cerebral irritation leading to convulsion are not clear. The irritation may be provoked by anoxia (spasm of the cerebral vessels following hypertension). Cerebral edema may also contribute to cerebral irritation, arrhythmia which increases following anoxia / edema.

Management:

Patient should be placed in a railed cot in an isolated room.

Anticonvulsant and sedative regime should be used.

4. Fever:

Fever to pregnant women is most troublesome disease and fetus also suffers due to transfer of heat of fever from the mother. If fever occurs before 4th month then patient should be advised to fast for one day, followed by use of drinkables free from fat and salt. She should take only rice gruel followed by cereals with soups and no medicine should be given. Lekhan karma (the measures which makes the body light) could be used if it occurs after 4th month (Kashyap khil sthan,10).

In taruna jwara (recent fever), massage with oil, nasal drops and sternutatory drugs (causing sneezing) should be avoided as they influence the fetus by making it stiff or immobile (Kashyap, khil sthan 10/18).

Similarly emesis produces fetal abnormalities, abortion and other serious disorders (Charka, siddhi sthan 2/9).

General treatment:

Decoction of Chandan (Santalum album Linn.), Sariva (Hemidesmus indicus R.Br.), Lodhra (Symplocos racemosa Roxb.) & mardvika (Vitis vinifera Linn.) mixed with sugar should be given. (Yogratnakar, Stri rog chikitsa sthan).

Hriberadi decoction prescribed for diarrhea is also beneficial (Kashyap, khil sthan.10).

5. Diarrhea during pregnancy:

Dietetic abnormalities, use of ripened fruits and polluted water, fear, grief etc. psychological trauma, emaciation and due to doshas or other body disease can cause diarrhea to anybody. However during pregnancy presence of least abnormalities may produce diarrhea.

Management:

Digestive drugs should be prescribed when diarrhea has sufficient quantity of mucous in feces and constipation drug should be prescribed incase feces do not contain mucous.

Kalyanakawaleha and Hriberadi decoction is beneficial in all types of diarrhea (Kashyap, khil sthan.10).

6.  Epilepsy:

In this, incidence of fetal malformation and still birth increases. The malformation includes- cleft lips/palate, mental retardation, cardiac abnormalities, limb defect. There is chance of neonatal hemorrhage. There is also a risk of developing epilepsy to the offspring of an epileptic mother.

Management:

-Vit.K 10mg a day orally is to be given in the last two weeks of pregnancy.

-Juice of lemon mixed with vid and rock salt.

-Decoction of agnimantha (Premna mucronata Roxb.)

-Soups of meat of quail mixed with fat.

7. Jaundice:

When the serum bilirubin level exceeds 2mg % (normal being .2-.8mg %), visible yellow staining of the tissue appear. Its overall incidence in India is 1-4% per 1000 deliveries.

It may be due to severe pre-eclampsia, eclampsia, acute fatty liver (acute yellow atrophy of the liver), severe hyperemesis gravidarum, intra hepatic cholestasis is the second most common cause of jaundice in pregnancy, the first one being the viral infection.

Management:

-Decoction of prsniparni (Uraria picta Desv.), bala (Sida cordifolia Linn.) and vasa (Adhatoda vasica Nees) should be given (Yogratnakar, stri rog chikitsa sthan).

-Use of pippali (Piper longum Linn.) and root of ankotha (Alangium salvifolium Linn.f.) mixed with juice of horse dung and curd of buffalo’s milk is beneficial (Kashyap, chikitsa sthan. 2/6).

8. Heart pain:

In 32nd week of pregnancy the pressure on heart is highest and with time it goes on increasing. In such cases, the patient needs special care.

We may use powdered pippali (Piper longum Linn.) with paste of patra (Digitalis purpurea Linn.), coca ( Coffea arabica Linn.) and priyangu (Callicarpa macrophylla Vahl.) mixed with juice of lemon(Citrus medica Linn.). (Kashyap, khil sthan.10).

9.  Tuberculosis:

The incidence ranges between 1-2% among the hospital deliveries in the tropics, and is predominantly confined to the under privileged sectors of society. Incidence of T.B. is also rising worldwide with the rising prevalence of HIV infected patients, positive family histories etc. Alcohol addiction and intravenous drug abuse are also responsible for this.

Management:

- An electuary made with maricha (Piper nigrum Linn.), bharngi (Clerodendrum serratum Linn.), and pippali (Piper longum Linn.) mixed with lemon juice should be given (Kashyap, khil sthan.10).

- If it is associated with trauma then use of an electuary made with madhuka (Glycyrrhiza glabra Linn.), sankhapushpi (Convolvulus pluricaulis Chois.), jiva (Leptadenia reticulate W. & A.), sugar and honey should be used (Kashyap, khil sthan.10).

- Pippalyadi leha is also useful (Kashyap, khil sthan.10).

10. Anemia:

It is the most common hematological disorder that may occur during pregnancy. According to standard laid down by WHO, anemia in pregnancy is present when the hemoglobin concentration in the peripheral blood is 11gm/100ml or less. During pregnancy, plasma volume expand (maximum around 32nd week) resulting hemoglobin dilution, which result in fall of hemoglobin concentration.

Due to anemia pre-eclampsia, recurrent infections, heart failure at 30-32 week of pregnancy and preterm labor may happen.

General treatment:

1. A realistic balance diet rich in protein and vitamin is prescribed.

2. To improve the appetite and facilitate digestion, some drugs could be given, such as use of powder of pippali, pippalimula (root of Piper longum Linn.), mustak (Cyperus rotundus Linn.) with sweetened milk or honey. (Kashyap, Chitiksa sthan. 2/13)

3. Effective therapy to cure disease contributing to the cause of anemia.

Special therapy: The principal is to raise the hemoglobin level to normal as far as possible. Thereafter an attempt is made to restore the iron reserve, before the patient goes in labor.

11. Acute pain in abdomen:

Some amount of abdominal pain is common during pregnancy.  In approximately 80% of women who are pregnant, back pain is present. The etiology of pain is probably related to a combination of mechanical, metabolic, circulatory, and psychosomatic and social contributing factors. The fact that one-third of the patients who experience pain starting during the first trimester when mechanical forces are not a significant force, highly indicates that the most probably cause is due to a change in hormonal influence. Patients are instructed to avoid excessive weight gain; exercise to strengthen the back muscles, maintain correct posture and wear sensible shoes (not high heels).

Pregnancy is one of the most beautiful aspects of womanhood. Each pregnancy, each child born, is a special opportunity for a woman to discover within herself great strength and flexibility. She can discover her great power yet her ability to surrender, her great compassion yet a detachment, most importantly, her greatest capacity to love.

In conclusion, considering all the disorders and their management mentioned above, it can be advocated that if the fetus and the pregnant woman are taken care of during each of the nine months, we can not only control all the possible disorders but can also help both mother and her child to live a healthy and happy life.

Reference:

1. Charaka Samhita: Charak Samhita of Agnivesh, Elaborate by Charak, redacted by Drdhabala   (vol.-1), Edited with  ”Vaidyamanorama”, Hindi Commentry Along with Special Deliberation etc. by Acharya Vidyadhar Shukla and Prof. Ravi Dutt Tripathi, Forward by Acharya Priy Vrata Sharma, Chaukhamba Sanskrit Pratishthan, Delhi, (2002).

2. Dutta D.C.: Text book of Obstetrics, 6th Edi., New Central Book Agency (P) LTD., Calcutta, (2004).

3. Tewari PV: Ayurveda Prasutitantra Evam Striroga, (Part 1) PrasutiTantra (Obstetrics), by Prof. (Km.) Premvati Tewari, Chaukhambha Orientalia, Varanasi (2003).

4. Tewari PV: Kashyap Samhita, (1 Ed.), Chaukhambha Viswabharati Prakashan, Varanasi (1996).

5. Harita Samhita: Harit Samhita,”Hari” Hindi Commentry by Pandit HariharPrasad Tripathi, Chaukhambha Krishndas academy, Varanasi (2005).

6  Sushruta samhita: Susruta Samhita of Maharsi Susruta, Edited with Ayurveda-Tattva-Sandipika, Hindi Commentary, Scientific Analysis, Notes etc, by Kaviraja AmbikaDutta Shastri, A.M.S.(Part-1) Chaukhambha Sanskrit Sansthan, Varanasi, (2004).

7  Yogratnakar : Yogaratnakara with ”Vidyotini” Hindi Commentry by Vaidya Laksmipati Sastri, Edited by Bhisagratna Brahmasankar Sastri, Chaukhambha Prakashan, Varanasi (2008).

8. Kashyap samhita: The Kashyap samhita or (Vrddhajivakiya Tantra), by Vrddha Jivaka, Revised by Vatsya, With Sanskrit Introduction, By Nepal Rajaguru ”Pandit Hemaraja Sarma”, with The ”Vidyotini” Hindi Commentary and Hindi Translation of Sanskrit Introduction  by Ayurvedalankar, ”Sri Satyapala Bhisagacharya”, Chaukhambha Sanskrit Sansthan, Varanasi (2008).

9. Vaghbata: A. Astanga Hrdayam of Srimad Vagbhata, Edited with ”Nirmala” Hindi Commentary, along with special delibration etc. By Dr. Brahmanand Tripathi, Chaukhamba Sanskrit Pratishthan, Delhi (2007).

B. Astanga Samgraha with Hindi Commentary (Vol.1) by Kaviraj Atrideva Gupta Vidyalankar, Bhishagratna. Foreword by Rajvaidya Pandit Sri NandaKishor Sharma, Bhishagacarya, Chowkhambha Krishnadas Academy, Varanasi (2005).

Hannah Bajor.C.N.M.,M.S.N. Pregnancy Success & Health Coach posted:

Hemorrhoids in pregnancy can turn an otherwise healthy pregnancy into a nightmare. Read on to see why pregnant women get hemorrhoids and what you can do to prevent or relieve hemorrhoids during pregnancy.

As a certified nurse midwife I have treated many cases of pregnancy and hemorrhoids. It was not until I personally experienced hemorrhoids during pregnancy that I understood how painful these little monsters can be.

What are hemorrhoids?

Hemorrhoids are swollen varicose veins on or around the anus. The veins within the anal canal become swollen because of weakened vein walls allowing blood to pool. This causes the walls of the vein to expand creating the visible ball on the outside of the anus called a hemorrhoid.

What causes pregnancy hemorrhoids?

Pregnancy requires a woman to increase her total blood volume by 40% to accommodate her growing baby nutrition and circulatory needs. This increase in blood volume requires that the pregnant woman’s blood vessels relax and expand to hold the extra blood. This is one of the major reasons why pregnant women are prone to blood clots, varicose veins and hemorrhoids.

Pregnant women are also prone to constipation due to extra fluid absorption and relaxation of the bowels.

Constipation combined with the increased pressure on the rectum and perineum due to the growing baby is another reason for hemorrhoids during pregnancy.

Types of pregnancy hemorrhoids:

Internal hemorrhoids during pregnancy:

You can’t see or feel these hemorrhoids, but straining or irritation from a passing stool can injure a hemorrhoid’s delicate surface and cause it to bleed. You may notice small amounts of bright red blood on your toilet tissue or in the toilet bowl water. Because internal anal membranes lack pain-sensitive nerve fibers, these hemorrhoids usually don’t cause discomfort. Occasionally, straining can push an internal hemorrhoid through the anal opening. If a hemorrhoid remains displaced (prolapsed), it can cause pain and irritation.

External hemorrhoids during pregnancy:

These hemorrhoids tend to be painful. Sometimes blood may pool in an external hemorrhoid and form a clot (thrombus) causing severe pain, swelling and inflammation. When irritated, external hemorrhoids can itch or bleed. The pain of hemorrhoids may be comparable to being stabbed in the rectum by a knife or hot poker.

What can you do to treat hemorrhoids during pregnancy?

The good news is that hemorrhoids usually improve after the baby is born. In the meantime, there are a number of things you can do to treat hemorrhoids. Any one or more of the following may help relieve hemorrhoids during pregnancy:

Take a warm bath with baking soda or place baking soda (wet or dry) on the area to reduce itching.

Use witch hazel to reduce swelling or bleeding.

Use Tucks Medicated Pads.

Avoid sitting or standing for long periods.

Drink plenty of fluids.

Drink prune juice.

Do not delay going to the bathroom.

Eat plenty of fruits and vegetables.

If you are suffering very badly from pregnancy hemorrhoids please consult with your obstetric provider for hemorrhoid medication.

Mangosteen and minerals, 2 ounces twice a day has helped many pregnant women relieve inflammation and pain from hemorrhoids during pregnancy. Mangosteen is a fruit that has been used for hundreds of years as an all natural, pregnancy safe anti-inflammatory and a pain blocker. Mangosteen also supports you body to the demands of pregnancy.

Wondering where to get more information about a high quality mangosteen and mineral product then go to my pregnancy web site at http://www.VemmaMidwife.com

If you wish to ask me a personal question about your pregnancy or an issue in your life then visit http://www.PregnancySuccessCoach.com/Ask_Hannah_Section.html

Hannah Bajor. C.N.M.,M.S.N.

Certified Nurse Midwife

Pregnancy Success Coach

Apurva Shree posted:

Only sign of pregnancy that is most common is the missed or delayed menstrual period. Otherwise, early pregnancy symptom varies with the different pregnant woman and also with the different pregnancies. Importance of the sign of pregnancy cannot be ignored because in the lack of the proper knowledge of the sign of pregnancy one can easily confuse with anything other than pregnancy. The degree of the variation in the sign of pregnancy is very high. In one case the sign of pregnancy may appear within one week of the conception while in other case it may take few weeks before the early pregnancy symptom starts appearing. In some cases it is also possible that a particular sign of pregnancy may not appear in the pregnant woman at all.

Implantation Bleeding

One of the earliest sign of pregnancy is implantation bleeding. It can take place as early as within 6 to 12 days of the conception. The reason behind the implantation bleeding is implanting of the embryo on the uterine walls. The time of this kind of bleeding is almost same when you would have your menstrual period had you not missed it because of the pregnancy. As and when you observe the first sign of pregnancy you should take the help of weekly pregnancy calendar so that you get to know about the changes take place in the body of the fetus and mother from time to time.

Irritation In The Behavior Along With The Indigestion And Heartburn

If a woman starts irritating easily then it can also be a sign of pregnancy. A pregnant woman has to face many types of sickness and tiredness because of the changes in the hormones. So, the other people living with the pregnant woman should understand it and must cooperate with the pregnant woman. In addition to irritation a pregnant woman may also experience the problem of indigestion and heartburn.

Change Of Complexion And Loss Of Weight

Breaking skin and change in the complexion is also a sign of pregnancy. This again is a result of the raging hormones in the body. However, this problem does not last much and usually ends by the second trimester of the pregnancy period. In some cases the pregnant women pass white and thick cervical mucous that is more in the quantity than the normal. One surprising sign of pregnancy is the loss of weight. If it is the first trimester of the pregnancy period then it is not unlikely that you may shed a little bit of weight. However, this weight loss is understandable because of more healthy food intake due to loss of appetite along with no or less alcohol consumption.

Apurva Shree posted:

The only certain thing about the symptom of pregnancy is that no early pregnancy symptom that can be universally accepted as the sure sign of pregnancy. There are both types of the pregnant woman. In the first category we can put those women who feel about the pregnancy symptom during the beginning of the pregnancy period. On the other hand there are woman who do not feel that they are pregnant during the course of the pregnancy period.

No Symptom Of Pregnancy is Universally Accepted

Although this is true that there is no symptom of pregnancy that can be considered as the sure sign of pregnancy yet here are some of the symptom of pregnancy that most of the pregnant women experience during the course of their pregnancy period. Among all these the morning sickness is most talked about symptom of pregnancy. Morning sickness refers to the feeling of nausea ands sometime resulting in the vomiting by the pregnant women. However, you should not get confused with the name morning sickness because it can happen at any time during the day. In some even this most common symptom of pregnancy is not observed. In most of the cases morning sickness continues only till the end of the first trimester.

Missed menstrual Cycle

Missed menstrual period is another symptom of pregnancy that is very common among the entire pregnant woman. However, there may be several other reasons also that are responsible for the missed period. Some of these reasons that can cause missing of the period even if the woman is not pregnant are illness, stress, fluctuation in the weight and use of the oral contraceptive pills by the woman. Here polycystic ovary syndrome is worth mentioning because it can delay the arrival of the menstrual period by several months. However, if any other symptom of pregnancy also occurs with this then we can assume that the woman in question is pregnant.

Change In The Size And The Feel Of the Breast

If a woman observes that the size of the breast is changing along with the feeling of breast then it can be assumed that the woman is pregnant because this is also very common symptom of pregnancy. This sign of pregnancy can appear in the very early stage of the pregnancy. The enlargement in the size of the pregnant women is understandable because the nature is preparing the body for the breastfeeding. In some cases the sensitivity of the breast increases and the pregnant women start feeling tenderness in the breast. Some of them also complain about a tingling sensation. However, in most of the cases women have to face this problem only for few weeks during the pregnancy period.

Denise Villani posted:

With all the concerns about exercising during pregnancy, what is a pregnant woman to do? Many people would probably question whether or not the relatively difficult Pilates program could be altered enough to accommodate the special needs of a pregnant woman. The answer is a resounding Yes! Pilates is very adaptable and most Pilates exercises can be modified as your pregnancy progresses and your body and abilities change. The modifications help you keep the intent of the exercise, but adjust the form to adapt to the changes in your body during pregnancy. The majority of women are able to safely participate in Pilates during pregnancy with modifications.

Many people today would be surprised to learn that Pilates during pregnancy is considered to be one of the most appropriate exercise programs for pregnant women. Even more surprising is that Pilates is used for pregnant women to strengthen the core of the body, the muscles of the torso where the abdominal muscles work with the back and the pelvis. What other exercise series could be so perfect for working the muscles that a pregnant woman will need the most during labor and delivery? It is also important to note that Pilates during pregnancy will strengthen and tone the mother’s postural muscles; the muscles used to carry the baby.

The ability to modify exercises so that they work for a changing body and the focus on control, precision, and appropriate levels of exercise intensity all come together to make Pilates a safe choice for exercising during pregnancy. Combined with Pilates principles like, centering, breath and flow, you have a program that can be effective throughout the duration of a pregnancy. With the proper instruction, a Pilates session during pregnancy can be a beneficial use of time for body, mind and the baby too.

Practicing Pilates during pregnancy will help the mother not only carry the baby well, but may also make labor easier and help the new mother speed up the recovery of her figure after delivery. By strengthening the back,the pelvic floor and developing good posture, carrying the baby and giving birth are made a little easier. Also, with better muscle tone, common injuries from carrying the baby and giving birth are less likely to occur.

If practicing Pilates during pregnancy be sure to use a toned-down version of the regular, sometimes strenuous Pilates routines. There are Pilates pregnancy lower-impact workout that can be done from week one of the pregnancy until week 31 or 32 of the pregnancy. Pilates during pregnancy can also be beneficial to the baby because the low-stress exercises help circulate extra oxygen and nutrients to the unborn baby. Also, the breathing techniques learned by the mother while taking Pilates during pregnancy can help ease the delivery.

Furthermore, the exercises that a pregnant woman would do while taking Pilates during pregnancy can help keep them from losing control of their bodies during pregnancy. These exercises also help the mother to quickly get back to her pre-pregnancy shape, with the same or maybe even better flexibility, posture, and muscle tone. Most Pilates pregnancy classes offer something for every pregnant woman, from early to late pregnancy, from the basics to post-pregnancy more advanced classes. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced Pilates student, you can find a Windsor Pilates program to fit your needs.