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Showing posts with label Pregnancy. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Pregnancy. Show all posts

Wednesday, October 1, 2014

6 changes that take place in your breasts during pregnancy

pregnant womanDuring pregnancy, there are a lot of changes that happen within your body. In fact, every part of your body is affected in one way or the other. Your breasts also undergo a lot of changes in the process; some are painful, and some are minor changes that cause no harm. However, know that breast changes that happen during pregnancy have a purpose of their own. It is a sign that your body is preparing well in advance to meet with the breastfeeding demands of your baby after birth.  Here are a few noticeable changes that your breasts may go through.


Soreness 



Not all women might experience this symptom, but it is common during pregnancy. Tender and sore breasts are the result of increased sensitivity in the area due to hormonal changes. These symptoms are more prominent during the first trimester of pregnancy than any other time during those nine months. Increased levels of estrogen and progesterone are responsible for the tenderness in the breasts. At times, it can be so severe that your breasts start to pain if brushed accidentally or when touched by your partner. Incidentally these symptoms cease when one enters the second trimester.


Increase in size


It is common for your breasts to increase in size during pregnancy with milk production in progress, and gearing up for lactation. However, remember that big, enlarged breasts are also going to be very sore and tender. Along with an increase in growth there are chances of developing stretch marks and itchiness in the area too. If you notice that your breasts are growing rapidly, make sure you use proper support bras to keep them firm and in place to avoid jerks and pain.


Appearence of veins


During pregnancy, your blood supply increases by 50 per cent to meet the growing demands of your body and that of your baby. This makes the veins more prominent and visible especially in the breast area and sometimes in the abdomen too. These veins become less noticeable post birth though.


Changes in nipples


While your breasts go through all these changes, your nipples also have to face the same fate. The areola and the nipples change in colour and become darker than usual. In fact, during the last few weeks of pregnancy the nipples and areola also grow in the size along with the breasts, as they prepare for the breastfeeding phase. Besides this, small bumps might also appear on the areolas that are harmless in nature. These are sebaceous glands that secrete oils to keep the breasts safe from bacterial infections.


Leaky breasts 


Your breasts prepare for lactation as early as 16th week of your pregnancy. At times, this can also lead to leaky breasts that could in turn lead to a discharge of a milky yellowish substance called colostrum, the first feed for the baby. This is normal and happens to many women during pregnancy. However, in case of blood leaking from the breasts get it checked with your doctor. Remember leaking breasts do not mean that your baby’s milk supply would be compromised post birth.


Formation of lumps


Developing lumps in the breasts during pregnancy is also common. Some known causes that could lead to the development of these cysts are fibroadenoma, i.e., cysts formed from fibrous tissues and galactoses, cysts developed due to a blocked milk duct. These cysts are usually, benign. However, it is better to get it checked with the doctor once to rule out possibility of other medical complications.


Tips to take care of your breasts during pregnancy 


Here is what you can do to keep your breasts well-protected during pregnancy:


  • Opt for well-fitting maternity bras that provide you with good support and would be gentle on sore breasts.

  • Try and avoid synthetic fabrics, satin and other designer undergarments that could cause friction in the skin. Avoid under-wired bras. Cotton maternity wear would be your best bet.

  • While going to bed, wear a cotton sleep bra for support.

  • Be careful and avoid knocking or brushing past things, especially if you have sore breasts. While lovemaking ask your partner to keep hands off your breasts if it hurts due to increased sensitivity.

  • Do a gentle massage to keep your breasts moisturised. 

When should you worry


Picking up a problem or medical condition related to your breasts during pregnancy is tricky, as your breasts go through various changes. However, one cannot rule out the possibility of breast cancer or other tumor development during this time. If you find lumps in your breasts, get it checked by your doctor and go for further medical examinations if required. In fact, ask your doctor or health care professional for a breast examination during your antenatal visits.


Photo source: Getty images


You may also like to read:


For more articles on pregnancy, visit our pregnancy section. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest updates! For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter. And for health-related queries, visit our Questions and Answers section.

Tuesday, September 30, 2014

Sex after pregnancy — how to get her in the mood

sex after pregnancy


Having sex after pregnancy can have its own set of complications and may not be the same as before. It might take weeks or even months for a woman’s body to recover and be sex-ready. The best thing is not to rush into it. More than the mother, the partner needs to be understanding and accepting of this condition. It is important even for the father to curtail his expectations about sex after the birth of the baby. Here are tips you can use to get your woman back in the mood for sex after pregnancy. 



Give her ample time to reconnect with herself


Even if she doesn’t mention it, the new-found identity of being a mother takes a toll on her. For most women, the initial months after birth make them feel disillusioned, what with all the stress of pregnancy and labour pains. This is when she needs support, love and affection, especially from her partner. With hormonal changes still surging and with low energy levels, add to it the demands of the newborn, sex is the last thing on her mind. However, have faith that things will change. All she needs is time for herself, to reconnect and reflect on her needs and be reciprocating towards other’s emotions, including the partner.


What you can do: Ensure that she regains her energy fast. To do so, help her in whatever little you can do – doing the dishes, making the breakfast, babysitting, helping baby to sleep or just sitting beside her throughnthose long nights. Remember allowing her to gain some vigour will help her recover soon from the post baby blues and probably help her get in the mood for lovemaking sooner then you expect.


Remind her how beautiful she is


While a woman’s sex drive takes a dip right after childbirth, her sensuality can still be revived. In fact, gentle touches and physical comforts can go a long way in helping her gain some energy and think of the world beyond her baby. Moreover with all those changes in her body – stretch marks, sagging skin, scars – it lowers her confidence to open up again. So sex even when she has the urge for it, takes a backseat.


What you can do: Try to make her feel sensual with your touch and actions. This won’t ensure sex right at the onset but can help you build her sex drive step by step. To arouse her sensually, tell her often that you love her and admire her for who she is, be honest here. Flattery will lead you nowhere. If you aren’t good with words find some practical ways to tell her that. Give her gentle massages and ensure lots of hugs and cuddles. Don’t expect anything in return. These little actions won’t ensure your immediate payoff but will help you get your woman in the mood soon.


Respect her needs and keep your sexual desires in-check


Taking care of her while keeping your own sexual desires in-check isn’t easy. Keep in mind that sex under pressure or due to any obligation will not serve the purpose of love and affection. Instead, it would definitely spell doom for your relationship.


What you can do: Masturbate. Even if this sounds odd, this is your best resort, at least for the time being. This will help you stay in tune with your desires while giving her space and time to get back into the mood.   


Make her feel special 


This might sound odd but if you want your sex life to be back on track after your baby’s arrival, it is important to regain her confidence and love again. This will help your woman to look forward to couple time despite the demands of the baby.


What you can do: Start going on dates when you get time. Surprise her with cute gestures such as flowers, gifts, chocolates, etc. These will help build the desire for sex as soon as her body recovers from the stress and strain she’s undergone. 


Go slow


When she is finally in the mood for it, don’t rush into things. This might just kill the appetite for sex once again. Instead remember that the thumb rule to resume sex after pregnancy is to go slow.


What you can do: Be slow, gentle and affectionate in bed. Hugs and kisses will work in your favour to help your woman relax. Try and arouse her sensually. Allow her to take the lead in bed. You can also do things she likes to please her and set the mood right for the rest of the night. 


Image courtesy: Getty Images


You may also like to read:


For more articles on pregnancy, visit our pregnancy section. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest updates! For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter. And for health-related queries, visit our Questions and Answers section.

Liv Tyler confirms second pregnancy

Liv TylerActress Liv Tyler is pregnant for the second time, her representative has confirmed, saying she’s happy and thrilled. Tyler, who has a nine-year-old son Milo William, is expecting her second child with boyfriend David Gardner. ‘Liv Tyler is happily pregnant with her second child,’ people.com quoted Tyler’s representative as saying. 


‘The couple is thrilled with the news,’ said a source. Tyler had her first child Milo from her previous marriage to British musician Royston Langdon. The actress of ‘The Leftovers’ fame met Gardner through friend and model Kate Moss. They started dating earlier this year.



Source: IANS


Photo source: Getty images


You may also like to read:


For more articles on pregnancy, visit our pregnancy section. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest updates! For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter. And for health-related queries, visit our Questions and Answers section.

Liv Tyler confirms second pregnancy

Liv TylerActress Liv Tyler is pregnant for the second time, her representative has confirmed, saying she’s happy and thrilled. Tyler, who has a nine-year-old son Milo William, is expecting her second child with boyfriend David Gardner. ‘Liv Tyler is happily pregnant with her second child,’ people.com quoted Tyler’s representative as saying. 


‘The couple is thrilled with the news,’ said a source. Tyler had her first child Milo from her previous marriage to British musician Royston Langdon. The actress of ‘The Leftovers’ fame met Gardner through friend and model Kate Moss. They started dating earlier this year.



Source: IANS


Photo source: Getty images


You may also like to read:


For more articles on pregnancy, visit our pregnancy section. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest updates! For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter. And for health-related queries, visit our Questions and Answers section.

Thursday, September 25, 2014

Colostrum: Your baby’s first vital food

Mother and babyWe all know the importance of breastfeeding. Mothers all over the globe try their best to breastfeed their babies soon after the birth – difficult labour, painful C-section, episiotomy – notwithstanding. But did you know that despite all the wisdom about breastfeeding that you gained, its colostrum what actually your body prepares as your baby’s first feed. Also known as pre-milk, colostrum is a yellowish, creamy substance that acts as your baby’s first complete food before mature milk is produced by the body.


Though it doesn’t exhibit the colour and character of mature milk and is less dense than breast milk, it has a host of health benefits and can do wonders to your baby’s developing systems. To reap the benefits of colostrum it is important that the mother is allowed to breastfeed the baby right after the delivery. Know more about how to kick start breastfeeding successfully. 



What is colostrum?    


Colostrum is the pre-milk your body starts to produce about three or four months into pregnancy. If you have leaky breasts during pregnancy, its colostrum that makes its presence felt that early and not breast milk. In some women the colostrum is a clear-fluid like liquid and in some it appears to be a deep-golden and thick creamy substance. The production of colostrum is very subjective and depends on your physiology and the needs of your baby.


During the initial days after birth your body produces enough colostrum for your baby’s requirements. On an average it is believed that a woman produces 50 ml of colostrum in the first 48 to 72 hours after birth. This small quantity is ideal for your newborn for relatively smaller feeds, which is what your baby would need during the initial days.


Busting the myth


There is this myth surrounding the production of colostrum that since it’s not milk it’s not what the baby needs and so it should be expelled, especially in many sects of the society in India. Doctors and experts say it is a myth and actually consider colostrum as ‘liquid gold’, a powerhouse of essential nutrients and antibodies necessary for the baby’s immature systems.


As the baby’s appetite increases colostrum is replaced with an abundant supply of breast milk. Do not restrict your baby from these pre-milk feeds, as production of the breast milk depends a lot on the suckling your baby does at the breasts during those initial days. Also read how comfort suckling helps in the mother and baby bonding.


Apart from being heavily loaded with antibodies and essential nutrients colostrum is:


• Low in fat content


• High in proteins


• High in carbohydrates


• High in vitamin K


• Easy to digest


How does colostrum benefit the baby?


It acts as a natural vaccination: Colostrum has a lot of antibodies in it, higher in comparison to that of mature milk. These antibodies help your little one’s body build immunity and fight against a host of infections. Colostrum is also high in leucocytes or white blood cells that help to protect the baby from bacterial and viral infections. It also protects your baby from respiratory infections such as pneumonia, bronchitis, as well as stomach infections and ear infections, till your baby’s own white blood cells are produced.


It acts as a storehouse of energy: The sugar present in the colostrum provides energy for the baby’s developing needs.


It acts as a complete food: Being your baby’s first feed colostrum is easy to digest and the perfect food for your newborn. Many experts believe that the protein content in the colostrum provides a full feeling to the baby enabling a longer sleep time.


It helps in better growth and development: Colostrum is rich in nutrients like zinc, calcium and vitamin A, B6, B12 and K, all these are essential for your baby’s overall growth and development. Also the high cholesterol in colostrum helps in the growth and development of the nervous system of the baby.


It helps prepare the immature intestine: Being the baby’s first feed colostrum prepares the baby’s digestive system for the mature milk consumption that’s about to begin, sensitizes the baby to foods taken by the mother, it seals the permeable holes of the gastrointestinal tract to prevent foreign bodies from entering the intestines.


It acts as a laxative: Colostrum feeds builds a newborn’s immunity and helps to pass the first tarry stool called the meconium, also expelling bilirubin in the process and limiting the chances of your baby suffering from infantile jaundice.


How to make sure your baby gets the colostrum-feed


Though many mothers want to start breastfeeding right after the birth, but there can be a number of reasons that can put a halt to this natural process. If you are keen to give your baby the pre-milk feed of colostrum, make sure of these:


You talk to your doctor beforehand. Write it in your birth plan and demand for a breast crawl after the birth to give your baby the much needed benefits of this ‘liquid gold.’ Know the benefits of a breast crawl. 


To work around your situations. In case of a premature delivery where your baby might be kept away from you in the care unit for good reasons, ask your doctor if you can express colostrum and feed your baby. This healthy pre-milk will boast your premature baby’s health for sure.


You figure out what works best for you and the baby. If you are recovering from a painful C-section or episiotomy look for a position with help from the staff or a family member that is comfortable for you and your baby to feed.  In case of a C-section you can try to feed your baby after six hours when the effects of anesthesia start to wade off. But to make sure your baby’s first feed is your colostrum, express your milk before you are wheeled into the OT. Talk to your doctor about it beforehand.


References: 


Importance of colostrum and your baby’s developing GI tract. (http://www.publish.csiro.au/)


Immune globulin levels in colostrum and breast milk. (http://ebm.sagepub.com/content/122/4/1098.short)


You may also like to read:


  • Decode your baby’s motions

  • Which of these 9 reasons are making your baby cry?

  • Is your baby teething? Here’s what you should expect  

  • 10 ways to keep your baby’s eyes safe

  • Try these tips to put your baby to sleep

  • 5 reasons why crying is good for your baby

  • How to manage your baby’s colic

  • 8 important weaning foods for your baby

  • 12 super foods that boast immunity in kids

  • 5 tips to prevent diaper rashes  

  • 10 things you should not buy for your baby

For more articles on baby care, visit our pregnancy section. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest updates! For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter. And to join discussions on health topics of your choice, visit our forum.


 

7 ways to bathe your baby right (Gallery)



7 ways to bathe your baby right





7 ways to bathe your baby right



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Babies smell good and look fresh all the time. But that’s no reason why they should miss out on a good bath. It’s not their fault; often new mums are scared and anxious when it comes to offer a newborn a bath. Sure your newborn doesn’t need all that scrubbing or cleaning like you every day. But they do need a bath to feel fresh and clean. Bathing also has a lot to do with your baby’s wellbeing and the hidden reward is it enhances the mother-baby bonding. Here’s how to do it right.







Also read: 


  • A new mum’s guide to bond with the baby better 

  • 5 benefits of comfort suckling 

  • 10 reasons why breast is better than the bottle 

For more articles on pregnancy, visit our pregnancy section. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest updates! For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter. And to join discussions on health topics of your choice, visit our forum.


Why drinking water during pregnancy is crucial

pregnant-and-drinking-water1The importance of drinking adequate water cannot be stated enough, more so if you are pregnant or are a nursing mother. It is important for a woman to stay sufficiently hydrated during pregnancy and post-partum to ensure proper health and well-being. When pregnant or breastfeeding, a woman’s water requirements are higher than usual and that is why water is needed to form amniotic fluid that surrounds the baby, supports the increase in blood plasma volume and produces breast milk, reports femalefirst.co.uk. Hence being well-hydrated may help alleviate some pregnancy related conditions.


To help understand the importance of hydration for pregnancy health, Emma Derbyshire, author of ‘Nutrition in the Childbearing Years,’ has provided essential tips for hydration in pregnancy.



  • Water is an excellent beverage choice for mums-to-be. It is natural and helps women to rehydrate without consuming calories and sugars. 

  • Women should increase their total water intake by an extra 300 ml/day during pregnancy and 700 ml/day during breastfeeding, make water the first choice when it comes to hydration. 

  • Water-rich foods such as soups, stews, yoghurts, fruits and vegetables can help top up total water intake.

  • Pregnant women should take frequent small drinks, particularly after the birth of their child when they are busy looking after their new baby.Women breastfeeding should make sure that they are getting enough fluids – try to remember to keep a glass of water on hand when you sit down to feed your baby.

  • Women should reduce their intake of caffeinated and alcoholic beverages during pregnancy and breastfeeding.

Apart from this water can help in the following ways during pregnancy:


It helps to deal with constipation and bloating: Constipation and bloating are very common during pregnancy. The elevated levels of progesterone and relaxin, the two hormones secreted during pregnancy in abundance, makes metabolism slow and interferes with bowel movements. This hormonal change leads to constipation at times, followed with bloating of the abdomen, indigestion, heartburn and nausea. Having water regularly and in good amounts, help to metabolize food easily, which can be digested well hence providing some relief from the irksome symptoms of constipation, nausea, heartburn and indigestion. Also read about tips to deal with constipation during pregnancy.


It helps to counter morning sickness and nausea: Well, it isn’t a good idea to sip water, or have any other fluids early in the morning, as it can trigger the symptoms of morning sickness. But sipping water regularly in between meals (not gulping it down) can help counter nausea and vomiting after the meals. Also read on ways to deal with morning sickness during pregnancy.


It relieves symptoms of dehydration: Dehydration during pregnancy can manifest in various forms. Headaches, nausea, dizziness, muscular cramps and edema are a few of them. Water retention (a feeling of bloating) is also a common symptom of dehydration. To flush out excess water from your system you need to drink more of this wonder liquid. Also read about ways to deal with edema.


It helps prevent certain infections: Urinary tract infections are common during pregnancy. But having good amount of water dilutes the urine which reduces the risk of vaginal infections. Less water intake could also lead to other form of infections. Urea, toxins and other wastes are flushed out of the body if you drink enough water throughout the day. 


It helps to fight stress:  Keeping yourself hydrated throughout the day can help in regulating the internal body temperature, achieving body-mind balance and work on the bodily rhythms to keep you calm, enabling you to handle stress in a better way. Also read about foods to eat during pregnancy to keep stress away.


Photo source: Getty images


With inputs from IANS


You may also like to read:


  • 8 healthy drinks for pregnant women

  • 8 drinks or beverages to avoid during pregnancy

  • Common mistakes woman make during pregnancy

For more articles on pregnancy, visit our pregnancy section. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest updates! For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter. And for health-related queries, visit our Questions and Answers section.

Wednesday, September 24, 2014

How to plan a pregnancy with a heart problem

Pregnancy and heart problems


While everyone stresses about diet, exercises and sleep, hardly anyone talks about heart health during pregnancy. However, one should know that heart health and its optimum functioning is vital during pregnancy. This is because proper functioning of the heart will ensure proper circulation along with better oxygen and blood supply to the fetus in the womb. Hence, any problem with this important organ can have an adverse effect on one’s pregnancy.



‘During pregnancy the blood supply inside the body increases and so does the heart rate. It is necessary that a woman’s baseline heart functions like blood pressure, general heart health are in check to avoid complications related to this delicate organ,’ says Dr Gowri Gore, consultant gynecologist, Kohinoor Hospital, Mumbai. Here is how stress comes in the way of your pregnancy too. 


How heart problems affect your pregnancy


An existing heart problem might not directly affect one’s chances of conception, however afterwards due to the demands of the body the heart might have to work double. Hence, increased blood supply and cardiac output can take a toll on a weak heart. Some heart troubles that can take a toll during pregnancy are:


Arrhythmic heart beats: Minor abnormalities in the heart rhythm, especially if one have been living a sedentary lifestyle with compromised heart health is common during pregnancy. However, if the rhythm goes haywire and out of control, it can hamper proper oxygen and nutrient supply to the fetus. Hence with a condition like arrhythmic heartbeat constant monitoring of the heart during pregnancy becomes necessary. 


Valvular heart disease: If a woman suffers from malfunctioning or scarring of any of her heart valves or has artificial heart valves installed this could increase complications during pregnancy. ‘Such type of heart condition can compromise the pumping capacity of the heart, and the organ might not be able to tolerate the excess pressure or exertion of pregnancy,’ informs Dr Gore. At times, the artificial valves could also lead to infections and other life-threatening conditions, like thrombosis. Medicines for the heart can also complicate a pregnancy. Here are three exercises that boost blood circulation during pregnancy.


Congenital heart disease: If the mother is born with a congenital heart defect, chances are that the baby might also be at the risk of the same. ‘For women with such pre-existing conditions it is vital to have a detailed counseling with a doctor before planning a pregnancy and take necessary steps to avoid complications. There are also times when women might be asked to avoid pregnancy due to her pre-existing heart condition if the doctor thinks it can pose a risk to the baby and the mother,’ says Dr Gore. 


Other complications of the heart: Women today are more prone to cardiovascular diseases and suffer from lifestyle-related conditions like hypertension. ‘High blood pressure and other acquired heart related ailments can come in the way of one’s pregnancy. Hence, it is important to control those factors during pregnancy, as such issues can also lead to a sudden cardiac arrest, which can all lead to the termination of pregnancy and have an adverse effect on the mother’s health,’ says Dr Gore. Here are simple tips to survive pregnancy symptoms. 


How to deal with heart problems during pregnancy


With a pre-existing heart problem it is important to follow some precautions after conceiving, here are a few of them


Keep up with your antenatal appointments: During pregnancy it is important to keep up with your antenatal visits, more so, if you have a heart problem. Constant monitoring of the heart becomes vital during pregnancy. Apart from the regular blood and urine test, along with weight and fetal heart rate monitoring, tests like an echocardiogram to see the images of the heart and electrocardiogram to measure the electrical activities of the heart is done. Here are five important things to ask your gynecologist during antenatal visits. 


Plan pregnancy in advance: ‘It is a known fact that with age along with the other organs of the body the heart health also declines and is more severe in women who have a preexisting heart condition. Hence, an early pregnancy in such case can help rule out complications,’ says Dr Gore. 


Avoid smoking and alcohol: These two vices do a lot of damage to the baby during pregnancy. With a heart trouble, the damages will only double up if the expectant mother continues to smoke and drink.


Watch your weight: Weight gain during pregnancy is healthy; however excessive weight gain can take a toll on a weak heart and lead to complications. Hence, keep your weight in check.


Take your medications on time: Make sure you take your medications on a regular basis to avoid putting any stress to your heart.


Opt for a multidisciplinary approach: ‘Planning a pregnancy with a heart trouble might call for a multidisciplinary approach. It is necessary to consult an obstetrician, gynecologist, cardiologist, pulmonologist and a physician and keep them in the loop regarding the progress of your pregnancy,’ says Dr Gore. Here is all you need to know about pre-pregnancy counseling. 


Can heart problems interfere during labour?


During labour, the heart rate increases, so it is important to constantly monitor the fetal heart rate and the mother’s heart beat too. To avoid complications and put a pressure on the heart, at times, a C-section is advised to keep the mother and the baby safe from troubles occurring due to heart problems. ‘Heart failure during labour or after the birth could be a possibility if the mother’s heart rate goes haywire due to a pre-existing heart condition and the added stress of labour, so a pre-decided labour for women suffering from heart diseases is always advised,’ says Dr Gore. Here are other 12 causes of C-section that you ought to know. 


When should one avoid pregnancy due to heart troubles


Planning a pregnancy amidst any heart trouble would need proper guidance from the cardiologist and a gynecologist. ‘There are certain situations and conditions with the heart when it is best to avoid getting pregnant,’ says Dr Gore. Particularly, if a woman suffers from congenital heart defects like Eisenmenger’s syndrome due to which high blood pressure affects the arteries in the lungs and the right side of the heart. Apart from that, problems in any one of the valves of the heart like the mitral or aortic valve can have life-threatening consequences on the mother and the baby.


‘If one conceives accidentally with an existing heart problem that could be a threat to the pregnancy and the baby, it is wise to opt for termination of the same. It is important to use contraceptives to avoid pregnancy with a heart condition. However remember not all contraceptives would be effective in such cases. Especially hormonal pills, copper T or other over the counter medications aren’t helpful for women with artificial valves,’ informs Dr Gore. 


Instead, it is important to talk and know about contraceptives to be on the safer side. ‘Some options that are good for women with heart problems are barrier contraceptive, sterilization and vasectomy of the partner. Counseling is an important aspect of both planning and avoiding a pregnancy in such cases,’ informs Dr Gore.


 Image courtesy: Getty images 


 You may also like to read: 


  • How to write a good birth plan

  • Tests you shouldn’t miss during your second and third trimester

  • 23 things that you need to take in your maternity bag 

For more articles on pregnancy, visit our pregnancy section. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest updates! For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter. And for health-related queries, visit our Questions and Answers section.