MD
Dr. Mona Hardas is a practicing Ob/Gyn from Flint, Michigan, with over 20 years of experience in private practice. She is also actively involved in teaching medical students and residents as an associate clinical professor from MSU College of Human Medicine. Dr. Hardas is interested in minimally invasive gynecology procedures, including laparoscopic hysterectomy, myomectomy, removal of adnexal masses, etc. Having done her master's training in cosmetic gynecology, she has been performing those surgeries for over seven years. Apart from medicine, she enjoys mentoring and empowering women and is involved in the local communities. She has authored a book for young adults - “Pocket guide to your periods,” which educates young girls on the menstrual cycle. In addition, she enjoys painting, exercising, hiking, cooking, and traveling. She is most proud of her three daughters and enjoys spending time with them and her family.
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Ovulation is when a mature egg (ovum) is released from the ovary. It is a hormone-mediated process where the follicular stimulating hormone (FSH) stimulates follicular growth, and the luteinizing hormone (LH) triggers ovulation. The released ovum moves from the ovary to the fallopian tube and stays alive for 12 to 24 hours, and it may fertilize during this time. This may occur about 14 days before menstruation in a 28-day menstrual cycle (1). You can predict ovulation by tracking its signs and symptoms or using ovulation predictor kits. The fertile window is five days before ovulation and the day of ovulation. Knowing the ovulation time may help a woman conceive or prevent pregnancy accordingly. Read on to know more about the signs and symptoms of ovulation, tests to detect ovulation, and ways to manage ovulation problems. [mj-toc] What Are The Signs And Symptoms Of Ovulation? Ovulation signs and symptoms may not be the same for all women. Some may not notice...
Many individuals deal with food allergies caused by milk, eggs, nuts, etc. Their bodies cannot tolerate these foods well and produce several symptoms. Similarly, some women experience fish allergy during pregnancy, causing them to develop symptoms such as nausea, vomiting, and [simple_tooltip text="eczema" tooltip="A skin condition that causes itchy, red, and scaly patches on the skin due to various factors such as allergies, genetics, or stress." ]. However, in some rare cases, fish allergy may give rise to a dangerous issue called [simple_tooltip text="anaphylaxis" tooltip="An extreme reaction to an allergen causing breathing difficulties and loss of consciousness." ](1). Anaphylaxis arises due to high levels of histamine caused by the allergen (2). If it is not treated at the nascent stage, it can be life-threatening. To avoid such situations, we have given below some important information regarding fish allergy during pregnancy. [mj-toc] What Is Food Allergy? [caption id="attachment_892931" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Food allergy is a common phenomenon found in adults...
"Is it safe to eat sodium citrate during pregnancy?" is commonly asked by many expecting mothers when they want to use it for acidity issues. Although some people use sodium citrate for various reasons, pregnant women may have concerns regarding their baby's health. Therefore, it is recommended to seek medical advice before taking sodium citrate during pregnancy. And one should consider it only when the benefits outweigh the risks. Sodium citrate can increase water retention, leading to the worsening of pregnancy-induced maternal swelling. Hence, obtaining prenatal advice before using any medications during pregnancy, whether traditional herbal remedies, is essential. Keep reading this post as we tell you more about the safety of sodium citrate during pregnancy. [mj-toc] What Is Sodium Citrate? Sodium citrate, also called citric acid, is an important ingredient found in antacids. Women often complain of heartburn during pregnancy. This is because the uterus expands and pushes the lower abdomen i.e. stomach and intestines upwards. As a result...
Spotting when pregnant or uterine bleeding during pregnancy is common, especially during the first and late third trimesters (1). This event could occur due to different factors and usually does not imply a serious issue, especially in the first trimester. However, bleeding later in pregnancy may have a more severe underlying cause (2). This post discusses the difference between uterine bleeding and spotting, the various causes of uterine bleeding during different trimesters, and how it can be diagnosed and treated in pregnant women. [mj-toc] What Is The Difference Between Uterine Bleeding And Spotting During Pregnancy? [caption id="attachment_893759" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] During the early stages of pregnancy, you may experience some light bleeding, known as spotting, where a few drops of blood may appear on your underwear occasionally. It is not enough to cover a panty liner. Bleeding is a heavier flow of blood, necessitating the use of a sanitary pad or pantyliner to prevent your clothes from becoming soaked...
The sinuses produce mucus that systematically drains into the nose to keep it clean and free of infections. Sinus infection while pregnant may occur when the inner lining of the sinuses or the nasal cavities become inflamed. This blocks the drainage passages, thus filling the sinuses with mucus. The most common manifestation of a sinus infection is nasal congestion leading to pain and breathing difficulty (1) (2). Sinusitis or sinus infection is one of the most common complications of rhinitis and a frequent problem during pregnancy. Different factors make pregnant women more susceptible to sinusitis, with pregnancy hormones being primary (3). Read on to learn the causes, symptoms, and treatments of pregnancy sinusitis. [mj-toc] How Common Is A Sinus Infection While Pregnant? [caption id="attachment_887444" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Observational studies show around 20-40% occurrence rate of rhinitis and sinonasal problems in women of childbearing age and 10-30% exacerbation during pregnancy. The most common cause of sinonasal problems that require immediate...
An incomplete abortion or incomplete miscarriage is when some products are held back in the uterus after a miscarriage (1). It is also referred to as spontaneous abortion. The products of conception retained in the uterus do not have viable fetuses. This implies that there is no possibility to continue the pregnancy after an incomplete abortion. The right diagnosis helps ensure complete expulsion of the tissue remains left in the womb after an abortion. This post lets you understand the causes, symptoms, risk factors, treatment, and complications of incomplete abortion. Read this post to know about the causes, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and complications of incomplete abortion. [mj-toc] How Common Is Incomplete Abortion? There is no global statistical data on incomplete abortion since abortion is legalized in some countries and may go unreported in a few countries. A comprehensive study on medical abortions divulged a significant surge in complications at less than 12 weeks. The rate of complications shot...
A balanced diet is essential during pregnancy to meet your and your developing baby’s nutritional requirements. You may have been cautioned against eating raw vegetables during pregnancy, but should they be completely avoided? A pregnancy diet usually requires plenty of protein sources such as dairy and animal products. However, some raw vegetables may be rich sources of fiber, folate, calcium, or essential fatty acids, which are equally important for a healthy pregnancy (1). Although eating raw vegetables can provide important nutrients, you should follow certain precautions to avoid potential health risks. Read on to learn about the benefits of consuming raw vegetables when pregnant, which ones to include in your diet, and what precautions to take. [mj-toc] Can You Eat Raw Vegetables While Pregnant? During pregnancy, the requirement of minerals, vitamins, and other nutrients increases due to the demands of fetal growth. Vegetables, when eaten raw can provide a plethora of nutritional benefits to both the mother and the baby....
Regular exercise can help maintain and improve the physical and mental health of pregnant and non-pregnant people. For many, exercising during pregnancy is safe, provided they do not have a high-risk pregnancy. However, choosing the right exercises for pregnant women is essential to reap their benefits. Your OB/GYN can guide you to a trainer or an online program to help you learn how to exercise safely. Read about the safety of exercising, the most suitable workouts and the precautions to observe while exercising during pregnancy. [mj-toc] Is It Safe To Exercise During Pregnancy? Since each pregnancy is unique, your healthcare provider can only advise you whether it is safe to exercise or not during pregnancy. Certain pregnancy-associated conditions may require the expectant mother to avoid all forms of physical exertion. Hence, your OB/GYN’s consent should be considered the gold standard (1). How Much Should You Exercise During Pregnancy? According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, pregnant women should indulge...
The first 12 weeks of pregnancy, starting from conception is called the first trimester. During this period, the body begins to expand and grow, along with other physiological and physical changes in the mother and the baby, leading to weight gain in the first trimester. However, weight gain may not be common for all women. Some may also lose weight during this period due to common pregnancy problems, such as loss of appetite and morning sickness (1). Hence, awareness and knowledge about the correct and healthy weight during the first trimester can help prevent weight-related complications later in pregnancy. Read on to know about tips for healthy weight gain in the first trimester. [mj-toc] How Much Weight Should You Gain In The First Trimester? [caption id="attachment_893579" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Women with normal weight or BMI before pregnancy are expected to gain 1 to 4.5 pounds (0.5 to 2kg) of weight in the first trimester (2). If they are expecting...
A headache during pregnancy may occur at any time, more commonly during the first and third trimesters. Most headaches are not bothersome and are often caused by hormonal changes and an increase in blood volume during pregnancy (1). These headaches are called primary headaches. However, pregnant women may also experience severe headaches due to underlying problems such as preeclampsia, stroke, and high blood pressure. Headaches due to these reasons are called secondary headaches (2). Read this post to learn more about the types, causes, symptoms, and treatments for headaches during pregnancy. [mj-toc] Types Of Headaches Occasional headaches during early pregnancy are quite common and occur more frequently than usual. However, they generally become better as the pregnancy progresses (3). The following are the types of headaches experienced during pregnancy: 1. Migraine headaches [caption id="attachment_893715" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] These headaches cause moderate to severe throbbing pain on one or both sides of the head. They usually last for four hours...
Masturbation and lovemaking may be observed as taboos in pregnancy. If you are also not sure whether masturbation during pregnancy is safe or not, you should be reading this post. Most women go through changes in [simple_tooltip text="libido" tooltip="The erotic urge or sex drive of an individual" ] due to hormonal pregnancy changes. Moreover, your huge belly in the later pregnancy could make it uncomfortable when indulging in intercourse, and masturbation may be more convenient. Read on as we discuss the benefits and contraindications of masturbation when pregnant. [mj-toc] Is It Safe To Masturbate When Pregnant? [caption id="attachment_881482" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption] Yes, it is safe to masturbate or engage in mutual masturbation during pregnancy. However, in some high-risk pregnancies, the healthcare providers recommend [simple_tooltip text="abstinence" tooltip="The act of refraining from indulgent behavior, usually alcohol or sex" ] from masturbation, orgasm, penetration, etc. (1). Therefore, it is best to consult your doctor regarding the safety of masturbation during pregnancy. [mj_protip...
You will get busier after having a baby as you tend to your baby and their needs. At this time, you may also be thinking about “getting back in shape” and getting rid of your postpartum belly. While pregnancy exercises help improve your body posture and achieve a smooth pregnancy journey, postnatal exercises are equally important. They help speed up recovery and aid with muscle strengthening and toning after labor and delivery (1). However, because your body is still recovering from the strain of labor and delivery, you should avoid any strenuous exercise for at least up to six weeks. Read this post to learn about the various postnatal workouts and their advantages. Click here to view an enlarged version of this infographic [mj-toc] Importance Of Postnatal Exercises Postnatal exercises are important after childbirth. They not only make your body fit and strong but are also important for your overall well-being. If you intend on starting a bulk workout, understand...
Basil or tulsi is a herb known for its minty flavor and is frequently used in Italian recipes. Considering its wide usage in Italian cuisines, you may wonder if it is safe to consume tulsi in pregnancy. This herb has an intense flavor that enhances the taste of Italian food. It is also a part of many seasoning pre-mixes and is served freshly on pizza and pasta. Hence, it is difficult to avoid it completely. However, knowing this herb's health benefits and risks could calm your concern. Read on to know more. [mj-toc] What Is Basil? Basil is a popular herb with many medicinal properties. Green aromatic leaves of the herb add a punch of great flavor to soups, salads, and many other cuisines. Also, basil is highly nutritious and contains many proteins, vitamins, fiber, minerals, and other essential nutrients. (1). [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/vitamin-a-during-pregnancy-importance-dosage_00818113/" title="Vitamin A In Pregnancy: Why Is It Important And What Are Its Vital Sources?"] Health Benefits Of...
Constipation is a common pregnancy complication. Most women can relieve it by staying active and increasing their fiber and water intake. However, if it persists, the doctor may prescribe laxatives. But is it safe to take laxatives during pregnancy? Laxatives or purgatives are medicines used to treat constipation. You can get them over-the-counter (OTC) under different brand names. However, medical guidance is vital to select a safe laxative to avert any side effects and complications. Keep reading as we tell you about laxatives, their safety during pregnancy, their possible side effects, and some safe laxatives you may try after consulting your doctor. [mj-toc] What Are Laxatives? [caption id="attachment_890431" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Laxatives are drugs that help relieve constipation by inducing a bowel movement or bulking the stools. They contain chemicals that help stool motility, frequency, and bulk. The laxatives are available in the form of pills, capsules, foods, gums, and liquids for oral consumption or through the rectum in...
Once you are 5 weeks pregnant, you are at the beginning of the second month of pregnancy. The fifth week of pregnancy usually brings significant changes and developments. Your baby will experience rapid growth with the first organs starting to develop this week. The 5th week of pregnancy is also when you might get to know you are pregnant; moreover, you may start to notice some physical and emotional changes by the end of this week (1). Read further to explore changes, signs, developments, tips, and important points to note regarding week five of your pregnancy. [mj-toc] Your Body At Week Five During this week, your belly may feel different, and you may sense that the pregnancy is just beginning. The first sign of pregnancy is a missed period. If you plan to get a pregnancy test, this week could be the right time. Your hormones may be surging now, making you feel tired, anxious, or emotional. It would be...
Loperamide is available under the brand name Imodium and is used for treating acute diarrhea and irritable bowel syndrome (1). However, you should check with a doctor before taking Loperamide during pregnancy. Although diarrhea may cause discomfort and nutritional deficiencies in pregnant women, taking Loperamide unsupervised is not advisable. The medication may also be used after intestinal surgery for regulating bowel activity. This post discusses the safety of taking Loperamide when pregnant, its risks, and possible side effects. [mj-toc]What Is Loperamide (Imodium) And How Does It Work? [caption id="attachment_889416" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Loperamide belongs to a group of drugs known as antidiarrheals. The medication is used to treat short bouts of diarrhea, and could also be prescribed to treat IBS. It is available under different brand names – Imodium, Imodium Advanced, Pepto Diarrhea Control, Diocalm Ultra, Diar-aid, K-Pek II, Imotil, Vaprino, Entrocalm Loperamide, and more (2). Diarrhea is a condition of loose and watery stools or a frequent urge...
Gaining a little weight during pregnancy is normal and, in fact, healthy. But excessive weight gain can be alarming. To avoid or manage such a situation, you could try following some diet plans for overweight pregnant women to help maintain a healthy pregnancy weight. While preparing a food chart for pregnancy, you should include foods from all the major food groups while controlling your calorie intake. An abnormal weight gain during pregnancy invites complications such as [simple_tooltip text="preeclampsia" tooltip="A pregnancy disorder characterized by high blood pressure, water retention, and protein content in urine" ], gestational diabetes, and even depression. These issues can take a toll on both your and the baby’s health. In this post, we have provided some healthy food choices to include in your pregnancy diet, including tips to make delicious yet balanced meals. [mj-toc] Weight Gain During Pregnancy [caption id="attachment_890447" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] A considerate weight gain during pregnancy is important for your health and the...
Does abortion hurt? In short, the experience of abortion is different for every woman. While most of them have intense period cramps, a few may have slight discomfort. It may hurt for a short time, and most women can get back to normal activities the next day. Some say abortion pain is more painful than a menstrual cramp and less painful than childbirth. Health care providers usually prescribe pain and anesthetic medications to treat and reduce the discomfort associated with abortion. Learn more about abortion pain, how abortion works, ways to reduce the pain, and risks of abortion. [mj-toc] How Do Abortions Work? The embryo or fetus and the pregnancy tissues are expelled or removed from the uterus during an abortion. Doctors may suggest the method of abortion depending on the weeks of pregnancy and other factors. Abortions work in the following ways (1): Medical abortion [caption id="attachment_893637" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] A combination of medications is prescribed to terminate...
Ovary pain during pregnancy can be due to several underlying conditions and often manifest as pelvic or abdominal pain. It is common during the early stages of pregnancy, especially in the first trimester (1). Irrespective of the symptoms and the trimester, consult your healthcare provider if you experience severe abdominal pain, specifically in the pelvic region, to rule out underlying morbidities. This post will guide you through the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of ovary pains during pregnancy. [mj-toc] Is Ovary Pain A Sign Of Implantation? [caption id="attachment_886810" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Ovarian pain can be a sign of implantation if it arises from ovarian cysts ([simple_tooltip text="corpus luteum" tooltip="A temporary endocrine gland that plays an essential role in ovulation and early pregnancy." ] cyst), which are common during pregnancy and help sustain it (2). However, ovarian pain can also indicate an ectopic pregnancy, where the egg implants outside the uterus, such as in the f[simple_tooltip text="allopian tubes" tooltip="Muscular, hollow...
Fetal alcohol syndrome (FAS) is a severe form of fetal alcohol spectrum disorder (FASD) seen in babies born to mothers who drink during pregnancy. This condition is caused by consumption of any type and amount of alcohol. It may cause permanent brain damage and growth problems in babies. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 0.2 to 1.5 infants in every 1,000 live births are identified with FAS in certain areas of the US(1). Hence, the CDC recommends that all women planning to conceive should avoid alcohol consumption in any form when they stop using birth control methods to prevent alcohol-related health complications for the baby (2). Learn more about the risk factors, symptoms, possible complications, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of fetal alcohol syndrome. [mj-toc] Risk Factors And Causes Of Fetal Alcohol Syndrome Consumption of alcohol during pregnancy causes fetal alcohol syndrome. Even small amounts of alcohol can reach the fetus through the placenta. Alcohol could...
Dry fruits offer energy, vitamins, minerals, dietary fiber, and several bioactive compounds. Therefore, moderate consumption of dry fruits in pregnancy is important for a baby\'s overall health and well-being. Dry fruits are a combination of nuts and dried fruits. Nuts are naturally found dried inside a hard shell and protective husk (1). Dried fruits are dehydrated, dry, shrunk, and nutrient-dense fruits removed from water content. Moderate consumption of dry fruits in pregnancy is a part of a healthy and well-balanced diet. Read about the health benefits, side effects, precautions, and tips to add dry fruits to a pregnancy diet. Read on to know the possible health benefits and side effects of consuming dry fruits during pregnancy. [mj-toc]How Many Dry Fruits Can You Eat Daily? [caption id="attachment_883829" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption] Generally, half a cup of dried fruits and half an ounce of nuts (12 almonds, 24 pistachios, 7 walnut halves) a day are sufficient for most pregnant women (2) (3)....