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Dr. Shashwat Jani is a consultant obstetrician & gynecologist in Smt. N.H.L. Municipal Medical College, Ahmedabad. He has 14 years of experience with a special interest in high-risk pregnancy, infertility, and endoscopy. He has written 12 chapters in reference books of Ob/Gyn and published 18 articles in Index journals. Dr. Jani has been invited as faculty in more than 200 national and international conferences. He is awarded two fellowships and a budding endoscopic surgeon of West Zone of India award by Economic Times.
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Depo-Provera is one of the most effective methods of contraception that prevent undesired pregnancies. But can you get pregnant on Depo shot? Getting pregnant on Depo shot (DMPA) is a rare incidence. This hormonal shot releases progestin hormone that prevents ovulation and alters the cervical mucus to prevent unwanted pregnancies. Inaccurate use, such as not using additional barrier protection if the shot is taken after the first five days of menstruation for a few days or delay in taking a shot, can be a reason for most pregnancies on Depo shot. Read on to learn more about reasons for getting pregnant on Depo-Provera shot, how to avoid such incidents, and ways to prevent pregnancy. [mj-toc] What Is Depo-Provera/ Depo Shot? Depo-Provera is a female contraceptive injection containing a synthetic progesterone hormone called depo-medroxyprogesterone (DMPA). Usually, 150mg of the drug is administered through a deep intramuscular injection (1). The injection is given by a doctor or a nurse in the upper...
Pinworm infection in pregnancy may occur if a woman comes in contact with the pinworm eggs from infected people or contaminated objects or surfaces. This infection is also called oxyuriasis or enterobiasis, and it is one of the common worm infections in humans. Although pregnancy is not a risk factor for pinworm infestation, it can be challenging to take several anthelmintic tablets during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester (1). Read on to know more about the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatments, and ways to prevent pinworm infections during pregnancy. [mj-toc] What Are Pinworms? A pinworm is a tiny, white roundworm (nematode) that grows inside the gastrointestinal tract of humans during its entire lifecycle. It is a common intestinal parasite. Pinworms are also known as seatworms, enterobius vermicularis, or threadworms. They cause helminthiasis (worm infection) in humans. Intestinal parasites like pinworms grow in the bowel and infect the anal area. They are highly contagious parasites that may infect all family members...
Cellulite may build up in the body anytime after puberty. However, the development of cellulite during pregnancy and menopause is more common because of the several physical changes that the body undergoes. Cellulite, or the orange peel syndrome, is a skin condition that occurs in almost all women. It generally occurs around the hips, thighs, abdomen, and buttocks and is characterized by lumpy or dimpled skin with an orange-peel texture (1) (2). Cellulite occurs when the fat tissues protrude into the outer layers of the skin; therefore, the condition is usually found in the areas of the body having more subcutaneous fat. It appears when the collagen fiber, connecting the fat and the skin, breaks, stretches or pulls (3). Read the post for more information on the causes of cellulite during pregnancy and the different treatment options available. [mj-toc] Is It Normal To Get Cellulite During Pregnancy? Cellulite is likely to affect women in pregnancy as the body undergoes a lot...
It is typical for women to gain weight during pregnancy. However, some pregnant women may become aware of these changes in their bodies and attempt to lose weight with prescription drugs, such as phentermine. But is it safe to take phentermine during pregnancy? Does it affect the fetus? This post tells you if phentermine is safe to use during pregnancy and its potential effects. [mj-toc] What Is Phentermine? Phentermine (Supreza) is a short-term medication prescribed to help lose weight in overweight women. It is recommended with an exercise regimen and diet modification to those experiencing obesity or who have a body mass index (BMI) greater or equal to 30kg/m2 (1). It is available under the brand names Adipex, Fastin, Ionamin, Zantryl. This drug belongs to the class “anorectics,” which helps in weight reduction by suppressing the appetite, although actions on the central nervous system and metabolism may also be involved. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/tips-to-lose-weight-during-pregnancy_00113233/" title="Should You Lose Weight During Pregnancy?"] Is It...
Itching is a common sensation during pregnancy. An itchy belly during pregnancy happens due to the stretching of the skin of your abdomen as the baby grows. Itchiness in the belly or pruritic abdomen is most common during the third trimester as the belly is the most expanded during this time. However, it might occur before that as well. Keep reading this post as we present you with the causes and a few treatment options for this condition. [mj-toc] Is It Normal To Have An Itchy Belly During Pregnancy? It is quite normal for the growing belly to be itchy due to the stretching of the skin. In some cases, your breasts, palms, and soles might turn itchy too. This may be due to the hormonal changes and skin conditions that develop with progressing pregnancy (1). If the itching gets serious, you should immediately consult your healthcare practitioner. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/ways-to-restore-hormones-after-pregnancy_00399001/" title="Reasons For Postpartum Hormonal Imbalance And Ways To Deal"] When...
Mirena is one of the intrauterine devices (IUDs) used as a contraceptive in family planning. But some women on birth controls may have doubts regarding pregnancy after mirena removal. Keep reading to find the answer to your question. The IUD is commonly used for effective birth control, and according to studies, only one out of 100 women using IUDs may get pregnant (1). This post will tell you about Mirena, including its efficacy, pregnancy after its removal, and pregnancy while on IUD. [mj-toc] What Is Mirena And How Does It Work? Mirena is a brand of T-shaped hormonal intrauterine device used for long-term birth control. This FDA-approved IUD is labeled to have an effectiveness of five years (2). It can only be placed by a healthcare provider. Insertion of Mirena takes about five minutes and can be done during a regular visit to the doctor. The device is inserted using a few tools. It can be inserted at any time...
[mj-toc] Are Mouth Ulcers Common In Pregnancy? Canker sores, mouth ulcers, or aphthous stomatitis in pregnancy are common. You may have a single sore at one time or three to four together. These small water-filled oral lesions are usually found on the mouth’s soft tissue, such as the tongue, inside the lips, and inner cheeks. Mouth ulcers may cause pain and discomfort, but they are harmless during pregnancy. They are usually temporary and go away in one or two weeks. Sometimes, aphthous stomatitis may occur recurrently but does not affect the baby in any way. Learn about the causes of mouth ulcers in pregnancy, their symptoms, and treatment methods. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/tongue-sores-during-pregnancy_00368581/?ref=content" title="Tongue Sores During Pregnancy - Causes, Symptoms & Treatments"] Why Do You Get Mouth Ulcers When Pregnant? The exact causes of mouth ulcers in pregnancy are not known. However, there are different theories (1) (2) (3). Hormonal changes: Fluctuation of hormones during pregnancy could be one of the reasons...
Your doctor may have prescribed you to receive an Rh sensitization injection, or RhoGAM shot during pregnancy if you have an Rh-negative blood type. It's an intramuscular injection prescribed to prevent Rh immunization in pregnant women (1). Continue reading to know about this injection and why a pregnant woman may require it. This post also discusses Rh sensitization and the key features of RhoGAM. [mj-toc] Why Does A Pregnant Woman Need RhoGAM? [caption id="attachment_894670" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] If a mother (pregnant woman) is Rh-negative (the red blood cells lack the Rh factor protein) and the father is Rh-positive, then there are chances that the baby could be Rh-positive. In such a case, the mother, who is Rh-negative, will have to carry an Rh-positive baby. During pregnancy or delivery, small amounts of Rh-positive blood cells can enter the mother’s bloodstream. Since the mother’s body does not have the [simple_tooltip text="Rh protein" tooltip="Also known as Rh factor, a protein found on...
In most women, jaw pain in pregnancy may indicate temporomandibular joint dysfunction (TMD). Temporomandibular joints (TMJ) are located on each side of the face, and it connects the lower jaw to the skull. Various [simple_tooltip text="musculoskeletal" tooltip="A human body system that aids in the body's movement, shape, and stability" ] and [simple_tooltip text="neuromuscular" tooltip="Conditions affecting the nerves that control muscle movement" ] disorders can affect the TMJ and lead to severe pain during talking and mastication (1). Pregnancy-induced jaw pain and dental pain can be due to hormonal changes. This may also cause headaches when pregnant. Swelling and stress with hormonal alterations can worsen jaw pain in pregnant women. However, simple care measures to ensure good dental health and some medications may help relieve this pain in most people. Keep reading this post to learn about the causes, risk factors, symptoms, tests, and treatments of jaw pain in expectant mothers. [caption id="attachment_599495" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] [mj-toc] Causes Of Jaw...
Low potassium or hypokalemia in pregnancy can be due to its loss from the body through diarrhea or vomiting. Low potassium levels in the blood can be associated with certain symptoms such as muscle cramps, constipation, weakness, and abnormal heart rates since they play vital roles in muscle and nerve functioning and blood pressure regulation (1). If you are concerned about lower potassium levels, you may seek a doctor to undergo antenatal or fetal monitoring tests if needed. Read on to understand the consequences of low potassium levels in pregnancy, how to manage this, and when to seek medical care. [mj-toc] What Is The Normal Level Of Potassium In Blood During Pregnancy? As per a study conducted on healthy pregnant women, the mean serum potassium concentration was found to be 5.65 millimoles per liter (mmol/l). The serum potassium level was 4.25 mmol/l in the first trimester, 5.83 mmol/l in the second trimester, and 5.95 mmol/l in the third trimester, which...
Gastrointestinal issues during pregnancy are very common. Diarrhea and constipation are common in pregnancy and occur in about one-third of all pregnant women (1). Diarrhea is having three or more loose bowel movements during the day that may or may not be accompanied by stomach cramps (2). Diarrhea in pregnancy is mostly caused by bacteria or viruses (3). Loose stools that continue for more than one day warrant medical care. It may lead to dehydration, which may lead to other health issues (3). Diarrhea accompanied by other symptoms, such as fever, vomiting, rectal bleeding, fluid leakage, or vaginal blood discharge, might need immediate medical attention. This post explains the symptoms, causes, and remedies for diarrhea in pregnancy. [mj-toc] Symptoms Of Diarrhea Loose and watery stools for three or more times a day may point to diarrhea. The following symptoms may also be seen along with diarrhea (3). Abdominal cramps Abdominal pain Bloating Nausea Constant urge to have a bowel movement...
After the baby's delivery, the levels of the postpartum hormones increase drastically. Conversely, during this period, the estrogen and progesterone levels drop dramatically, leading to symptoms such as anxiety, mood swings, and irritability. These symptoms are collectively referred to as 'baby blues' and might cause difficulty in taking care of the baby or yourself. Thus, it is important to make sure that you understand the symptoms of change in the hormone levels postpartum and deal with them accordingly. Making certain changes in your daily life and seeking advice from your doctor can help make things easier for you. Read about postpartum hormones, their effect on the body, and ways to deal with the symptoms. [mj-toc] What Causes Hormonal Imbalance After Pregnancy? The primary cause of hormonal imbalance post delivery is the changing levels of the female reproductive hormones called estrogen, prolactin and progesterone. These hormones are vital during pregnancy period and post-delivery, and an imbalance in their levels causes several...
When you’re at the end of your third trimester or even a week into your ninth month, you should be extra cautious and ready to welcome your baby into the world at any moment. However, you may be curious about when to start packing your maternity hospital bag. When you’re nine months pregnant, your water may break at any time, and you may go into labor. Therefore, you must be prepared to go to the hospital. While packing a hospital bag may appear a minor task, you will appreciate the value of one when you need it. Therefore, don’t put it off until the last minute. If you’re unsure of what to pack, read this post as we tell you the necessities and goods you should include in your bag for yourself, your spouse, and your newborn. [mj-toc] When To Pack A Hospital Bag? The best time to start packing your hospital bag for delivery is around 36 weeks as...
Vaginal thrush makes the vagina sore and itchy. It could become difficult during pregnancy as in some cases, it can pass on to your baby. MomJunction is here to give you all the information you need about yeast infection in pregnancy, and how you can manage it. Click here to view an enlarged version of this infographic [mj-toc] What Is Yeast Infection? Yeast infection, also known as vaginal thrush or vaginal candidiasis, is a fungal condition that develops when the yeast present in the vagina or intestinal tract starts to multiply. This will alter the balance of microorganisms in the vaginal region causing irritation (1). What Causes Yeast Infection During Pregnancy? The most common cause of yeast infections is a microscopic fungus known as Candida albicans. As long as it stays in a stable state, the fungus, which is naturally present in the intestinal tract and the vagina, doesn't pose any issues to vaginal health. But certain conditions can disturb...
A C-section is a surgical form of delivery, preferred when there are potential risks for a vaginal delivery. It is also known as a cesarean birth or cesarean section. The surgical method is planned during emergencies when a continuous vaginal delivery is arrested or life-threatening complications occur in the mother and fetus. It can also be pre-planned if the potential risks are known in prenatal care. The World Health Organization (WHO) states that the cesarean section is the cause of 21% of all childbirths (one in five). Furthermore, according to WHO, there is a prediction that the number may rise in the next decade. But, a cesarean is mostly a last resort of delivery and is not a recommended procedure due to the associated risks and complications (1). Read on to know more about the types, indications, risks, and complications, along with tips to prepare for a cesarean birth procedure. [mj-toc] Types Of C-Section Delivery C-sections can be of two...
Bleeding after C-section is normal. Also called lochia, this bleeding consists of mucus, tissue, and blood that the uterus sheds as it replaces its lining following the delivery (1) (2). Bleeding after cesarean delivery may be heavy and bright red during the first week after birth and become lighter and brownish over time. It usually continues for 24 to 42 days after birth; however, some women may bleed for a little longer (1). Read this post to know more about the causes of bleeding after C-section and ways to manage it. [mj-toc] How Heavy Is The Bleeding After A C-Section? [caption id="attachment_893799" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption] The amount of blood loss after a C-section depends on several factors (1) (3). Bleeding is heavy and bright red after breastfeeding because the [simple_tooltip text="oxytocin" tooltip="A hormone secreted by the pituitary gland to stimulate contractions during childbirth and lactation" ] released during the process compresses the uterus, thus producing more blood. Any physical activity...
Pregnancy incontinence or urinary incontinence is the inability to control bowel or bladder function during pregnancy (1) (2). Sometimes women experience urine leakage in small amounts during childbirth (3). In a cross-sectional study conducted with 750 pregnant women, 300 experienced urinary incontinence (4). Read more about the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of pregnancy incontinence. [mj-toc] Type Of Incontinence Experienced During And After Pregnancy The most common urinary incontinence experienced during and after pregnancy is stress urinary incontinence. Women may leak urine while laughing, coughing, sneezing, or doing physical activity (2). During pregnancy, stress urinary incontinence occurs because the growing baby in the uterus compresses the bladder resting under it. This causes extra pressure in the bladder, causing urine leakage more often (2). A cross-sectional study on pregnant women demonstrated that more women experienced urinary incontinence in the third trimester than in the first trimester (5). After childbirth, stress urinary incontinence occurs because of stretching and weakening of the pelvic floor muscles...
Pregnancy gingivitis is characterized by inflamed or swollen gums (1). It could be painful during pregnancy and more susceptible to bleeding. When pregnant, hormonal changes lead to an increased blood flow to the gums that could make your gums more sensitive, swollen, and irritable. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, many pregnant women experience gingivitis (2). Read this post to learn about the causes, signs, treatment, and prevention of gingivitis during pregnancy. [mj-toc] Causes Of Gingivitis In Pregnancy The following factors may cause gum diseases. Skipping oral care: Pregnancy can lead to exhaustion, and many women may skip brushing and flossing at night. It can lead to plaque and bacteria build-up, causing problems with gum health (3). Hormonal changes: Diminished estrogen or modified estrogen metabolism may lead to alterations in gum health during pregnancy (4). Smoking: Smoking during pregnancy may lead to periodontal diseases in expecting mothers (5). Diabetes: The risk of periodontal diseases is three to five...
Neural tube defects such as anencephaly and spina bifida affect approximately one in 1,000 babies (1). Experts claim taking supplements of folic acid in pregnancy is effective in significantly lowering the risk of these congenital anomalies. Therefore, folic acid or folate is recommended for consumption before and after a woman conceives. Read this post as we discuss the importance of folic acid during pregnancy, the amount you need, its sources, and when to avoid taking it. [mj-toc] What Is Folic Acid? Folic acid is a synthetic form of vitamin B9 found in fortified foods and other supplements. It is usually utilized by the body to produce new cells and nucleic acid (which is a form of genetic material). It is essential for the healthy growth and development of the baby and helps in carrying out specific functions such as producing red blood cells, protecting the child’s ability to hear and supporting the baby’s organ development (2). Experts recommend taking 400mcg...
Abdominal pain during pregnancy may indicate labor if it happens towards the end of the third trimester. But what if it occurs during any other time? Stomach pain during pregnancy could be due to benign causes and resolve on its own. However, there are also a few serious causes behind it that may affect pregnancy. This post elaborates on the common and serious causes of abdominal pain during pregnancy. We have also included a few home remedies that may help relieve this discomfort. [mj-toc]Are Stomach Pains Normal During Pregnancy? Slight abdominal pain or cramps are normal during pregnancy (1). This is because a woman's body tries to make space for the expanding uterus, resulting in some pain. A few gastrointestinal disturbances also add up to the cause. Harmless abdominal cramps during pregnancy usually fade out after resting or pooping. However, in rare cases, abdominal pain can indicate a serious condition that requires immediate medical care. What Are The Common Causes...
Pregnancy could change the way a woman could think and feel. Moreover, certain factors that cause anger during pregnancy could crop up spells of disgust and rage at most unexpected times. Plus, the hormonal surge and altering bodily processes during pregnancy may add to the mood swings and changes in the overall health and wellbeing of a woman, impacting personal relationships (1). Reading this post may help you explore the possible triggers that cause anger and tips to manage it during pregnancy. [mj-toc] Stress Factors That Cause Anger During Pregnancy 1. Hormonal changes: Hormonal shifts during pregnancy make women more susceptible to emotions such as anger and mood swings .. They trigger anger out of issues that have been bothering you for some time. Your bodily changes make such feeling intense. Identify such triggers and make an effort to resolve them so that they do not precipitate into an unpleasant situation. Take a deep breath before you respond to any...
Uric acid is produced in the body during metabolic activities and later eliminated by the kidneys. However, there is constant fluctuation in the levels of serum uric acid in pregnancy. These fluctuations occur due to hormonal and renal blood flow changes. Hence, it is an important marker for maternal and fetal health (1). Increased uric acid levels in pregnancy may indicate complications such as high blood pressure, gestational hypertension, and [simple_tooltip text="preeclampsia" tooltip="A pregnancy disorder characterized by high blood pressure, water retention, and protein content in urine" ] (2). Read on to know more about the complications and management of elevated uric acid levels during pregnancy. [mj-toc] Normal Levels Of Uric Acid During Pregnancy According to the Journal of Human Hypertension, the serum concentration of uric acid may remain at around 185μM (31.1mg/L) in the first trimester (2). However, the uric acid level increases as the pregnancy proceeds and may reach around 278μM (46.7mg/L) in the third trimester. This increase in...
Vaginal sex is considered safe during pregnancy unless suggested otherwise by your gynecologist. A doubt may arise as to what happens to the semen or sperm during pregnancy. You may also have concerns regarding its effect on the growing fetus. Unprotected sex and semen have no adverse effects in non-complicated pregnancies. This post talks about where does sperm go during pregnancy and whether it affects you or your baby. [mj-toc] Where Does The Sperm Go If You Are Already Pregnant? [caption id="attachment_890583" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Your baby is floating inside an amniotic sac protected by the amniotic fluid, and the cervix is covered with a mucus plug. Semen with sperms deposited in the vagina will be denied entry by the mucus plug and eventually come out of the body via the vaginal opening. The mucus plug is intended to keep bacteria or other potential sources of infection away from the uterus, and the same applies to semen. (1). [mj_protip...