MS, DNB
Dr. Swati Chitnis is a gynecologist and endoscopic surgeon with over 8 years of experience. She did her bachelor in medicine at BJ Medical College & Sassoon Hospital, Pune, India and MS at the prestigious King Edward Memorial Hospital, Mumbai. Dr. Chitnis has numerous publications to her name in national and international journals and extensive experience in high risk pregnancy. With special interest in minimally invasive surgery, she aims to make surgery and recovery comfortable for women.
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Many women who exercise regularly to stay fit might worry about the safety of jumping during pregnancy. While light exercises during pregnancy are beneficial for blood circulation and muscle growth, obstetrics advise women to stay away from intense exercises such as jumping ropes or sacks, which may increase the risk of pregnancy complications. Jumping exercises may loosen the ligaments, cause injury, and lead to miscarriage. Therefore, you should exercise caution and follow safety tips to stay healthy during pregnancy. Read about the adverse effects of prenatal jumping exercise and some useful safety tips for a risk-free pregnancy. [mj-toc] Safe Exercises For Pregnant Women There are some cardio, aerobic and strength training exercises that women can safely indulge in as a part of their antenatal care plan. Some of them are: Swimming Walking Cycling (on a stationary bike) [caption id="attachment_890046" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] Light Weight training Low-impact aerobic exercise Prenatal Yoga Light stretching exercises [mj_protip type="Quick fact" title="Quick fact"]Modified pilates...
Most people are oblivious to the harmful effects of using mobile during pregnancy and how they impact the fetus. Studies have shown that excessive use of mobile phones during pregnancy has been linked to the shorter duration of pregnancy and increased risks of preterm labor. Furthermore, recent results of studies performed by the Yale school of medicine have revealed that women who have extensive exposure to mobile phone radiations during pregnancy give birth to babies who suffer from behavioral problems later on in their lives. These harmful radiations also impact the fetus’ brain development and induce hyperactivity. Thus, you need to research more on the effect of these radiations on fetal development and consult your gynecologist during antenatal care, and determine the safe duration for mobile phone use. Keep reading this post as we discuss the effects of mobile phones on expecting mothers and the safe duration while using them. [mj-toc] Should You Worry Over Wireless? [caption id="attachment_881395" align="alignnone" width="720"]...
An expectant mother needs to maintain a healthy lifestyle during her pregnancy, which involves doing exercises. However, if you wish to do high-intensity exercises during pregnancy, you should first know its benefits and side effects. You need to take utmost care of your baby’s health during pregnancy. Doing light-weight exercises and stretching can help keep you in good shape and help the baby develop well. However, ensure you do not put too much strain on your back or belly as it might put the baby’s health at risk. Read on to know more about the exercises you should and should not do when pregnant. [mj-toc] Basic Information About High Intensity Exercises (HIIT) [caption id="attachment_893438" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] High intensity interval training or HIIT is a training regime that incorporates high intensity exercises with intervals. High-intensity exercising consists of different exercises including running and squatting. Some consider HIIT exercises to be more effective than cardio and traditional forms of endurance...
Outie belly button during pregnancy refers to the protruding navel (clinically known as umbilicus) seen in pregnant women. The growing baby inside the uterus causes your belly button to pop out. Although some women may not experience an outie belly button while pregnant, physical changes such as skin stretching are common. These often fade away and disappear after delivery. Read on to know more about an outie belly button, including its causes and prevention. [mj-toc] What Is An ‘Outie’ Belly Button During Pregnancy? According to human anatomy, your belly button is a scar on your abdomen that marks the point of attachment of the umbilical cord is (1). ‘Innie’ is a slang for the belly button, as it is mostly inward. In cases where the belly button is protruding outwards, you can call it an ‘outie.’ [mj_protip type="Quick fact" title="Quick fact"]An outie belly button mostly appears during the second trimester, particularly around the 26th week (2).[/mj_protip] [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/c-section-scar-infection_00470026/" title="C-Section Scar...
Trying butterfly exercise during pregnancy can help you stay fit and healthy. It helps to increase your blood circulation and keeps your body strong. Practicing this exercise daily as a part of your prenatal workout regime will help you stay flexible and loosen your hip joint, supporting easy and smooth delivery (1) (2). However, since everyone’s body is different, speak to your doctor to ensure that the exercise is safe for you. Read the post further to understand how butterfly exercises are beneficial for an expecting mother and the correct way to practice them. [mj-toc] Why Should I Do The Butterfly Exercise During Pregnancy? The butterfly exercises are a part of yoga that has been considered extremely beneficial for mothers and their unborn babies. [caption id="attachment_891147" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] These exercises help in (1) (2): Improving blood circulation Increasing flexibility in the hip and groin region Relieving tension and soreness in the inner thighs and legs Practicing these exercises...
[mj-toc] How Many Months Is 17 Weeks Pregnancy? If you are 17 weeks pregnant, it means you are four months pregnant. Your belly looks more rounded now. In this post, Momjunction explains how the baby is developing inside the womb this week, the changes that are likely to happen in your body and the care you need to take. Let’s begin with the size of the fetus. How Big Is Your Baby? The baby is about the size of a pomegranate weighing around 120g (5oz) and measuring 12cm (6.8in) in length from crown to rump (1). Baby Development At Week 17 Your baby’s body is now growing in proportionate to the size of the head. Body parts Development stage Skin Wrinkled and coated with vernix. Vernix is a waxy coating that protects the baby’s skin inside the womb. Lanugo Fine hair develops on the skin Nails Grown till the tip of the fingers and toes Mouth Begins to open and...
Group B streptococcus (GBS) infection, also known as group B strep disease, is a common bacterial infection caused by Streptococcus agalactiae. Group B strep in pregnancy occurs when a pregnant woman contracts the infection and is referred to as being colonized by the bacteria. These bacteria commonly live in the human body, particularly in the genitourinary and gastrointestinal tracts, and usually don't cause any harm. However, a pregnant woman can pass the infection to the baby during delivery, potentially affecting their health. While most babies are not affected, some may develop adverse health issues if infected (1). Keep reading to learn the causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of group B strep disease in pregnancy. [MJ_RELATED_LINKS href="https://www.momjunction.com/articles/high-amniotic-fluid-polyhydramniosis-during-pregnancy_00496017/" title="5 Causes Of High Amniotic Fluid (Polyhydramnios) In Pregnancy"] [mj-toc] How Do You Get Group B Strep During Pregnancy? [caption id="attachment_1049781" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] The group B strep bacteria may live in the vagina or rectum of a pregnant woman. About a quarter...
Applying heat to a specific body area can help soothe muscle tension and relieve pain. Perhaps that's why several women turn to a heating pad during pregnancy to eliminate cramps and aches. A heating pad is an electric or manual device, such as a heating pad fillable with hot water, which can be used to relieve aches in specific body parts. Electric and microwavable heating pads typically contain a cushion filled with materials such as electric coils, gel, or heat-absorbent material. It comes in different shapes and sizes to suit various body areas. While using a heating pad is generally considered safe, knowing some precautions can ensure its safety for pregnant women and their unborn babies. Keep reading to discover the benefits and risks of using a heating pad during pregnancy, along with safety tips and alternative options. [mj-toc] Can You Use A Heating Pad During Pregnancy? Using a heating pad during pregnancy is generally safe for temporary relief from...
Many women trying to conceive may want to know about 8dpo symptoms. Once conception happens, a woman’s body produces a hormone called human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). This hormone brings several changes in the body, and women may experience symptoms such as headaches and morning sickness. These symptoms may appear about eight days after the fertilized egg gets implanted in the uterine lining (1). Therefore, the term 8dpo or eight days post ovulation is commonly used. However, many women do not experience these symptoms exactly eight days after ovulation. Some women may experience these symptoms early, while some nearly two weeks after they miss their period. Read about the 8dpo symptoms and its other attributes in this post. [mj-toc] What Are The 8dpo Symptoms? Here are some of the 8dpo symptoms that you could look out for: 1. Implantation bleeding Absence of menses is the first sign of pregnancy. Sometimes, Implantation bleeding is an early sign of pregnancy that usually occurs...
Essential oils are liquids extracted from different plant parts by various methods (1). The use of essential oils for pregnancy and associated symptoms has gained popularity as it is believed to have a soothing effect by topical use. Mothers take utmost care and spend a lot of time and effort researching and finding the essential oils that are safe for them and their babies during pregnancy. We have made it easier by listing pregnancy-safe essential oils, their benefits, and safety. So read on and make an informed decision while choosing an essential oil to aid you in pregnancy. [mj-toc] Is It Safe to Use Essential Oils When Pregnant? According to the pregnancy guidelines by the International Federation of Professional Aromatherapists (IFPA), essential oils can cross the placental barrier and affect the fetus if proper dilutions are not used (2). Therefore, using essential oils judiciously during pregnancy is of utmost importance. However, scientific evidence regarding its safety is limited, as conducting...
Water is essential to perform different physiological functions in the body, and its need increases during pregnancy. So, how much water should a pregnant woman drink? Knowing this can help you stay adequately hydrated and reduce the risk of common pregnancy discomforts such as constipation, swelling, and urinary tract infections. The body derives water from the fluids and foods you consume, and its daily requirement depends on factors such as physical activity levels, body size, and weather conditions. Keep reading to know how much water you should drink when pregnant, its benefits, and practical tips to ensure sufficient water intake. [mj-toc] Why Is Drinking Water Important? Water is an essential nutrient that makes up 55 to 60% of our bodies and plays a crucial role in several bodily functions such as (1) (2) (3): Regulating the internal body temperature through sweat and respiration Transporting metabolized food and nutrients through the bloodstream Excreting waste products from the body through urine, sweat, and stools...
Preeclampsia in pregnancy is a condition characterized by high blood pressure and high protein in the urine during pregnancy or right after delivery. It usually develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy. Occasionally, preeclampsia may even develop in the first six weeks of postpartum. Early-onset preeclampsia may occur before 34 weeks of pregnancy and is often accompanied by severe symptoms. Preeclampsia can occur in pregnant women with existing chronic hypertension or previously normal blood pressure. The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) reports that the condition affects one in 25 women (1). The disorder affects the woman’s organs and risks the unborn baby’s health. Learn more about the symptoms of preeclampsia in pregnancy, its causes, risk factors, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment. [mj-toc] Signs And Symptoms Of Preeclampsia The early symptoms and signs of preeclampsia may include (2): Hypertension (high blood pressure) Proteinuria (proteins in the urine) High blood pressure alone cannot suggest preeclampsia, and this may indicate other problems....
A urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that causes inflammation in the urinary tract. Escherichia coli (E.coli) is the most common bacteria responsible for the condition (1) (2). UTI during pregnancy is common, with about eight percent incidence (3) due to hormonal changes and [simple_tooltip text="urinary stasis" tooltip="Urinary retention due to incomplete emptying of the bladder" ] from increased pressure of the growing uterus (2). The infection can be effectively treated with antibiotics upon early diagnosis. But, if left untreated, it can cause severe complications for the mother and the baby. Learn all about UTIs in pregnancy and ways to help prevent complications. [mj-toc] Risk Of UTIs By Pregnancy Trimester The risk of UTIs is the highest between weeks six and 24 due to the changes in the urinary tract (1). According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), 41% of UTIs occur in the first trimester, followed by the second with half the occurrences and...
When two babies are born from the same pregnancy, they are called twins. Irish twins refer to siblings born no less than 12 months apart. A woman who has given birth to a child can conceive as early as three weeks after the delivery, even when she is breastfeeding and her periods have not occurred yet (1). The word 'Irish twins' had negative connotations in the past. It referred to the Irish immigrant population in America who were devout catholic Christians and did not use birth control measures as it was believed to be a sin. Furthermore, owing to poor knowledge of contraception, they bore many children of similar age groups. Hence, the term misrepresented the idea that Irish people were poor, uneducated, and lacked self-discipline. Read through this post to learn more about Irish twins and the benefits and challenges of having them. [mj_protip type="Did you know" title="Did you know?"]Contraception was deemed illegal by the Irish government from 1935...
Pregnancy-related discomforts can make it challenging for women to get enough sleep. It is why several women consider trying melatonin during pregnancy to improve their sleep. Melatonin is a natural hormone that primarily regulates the sleep-wake cycle. It is generally used to treat sleep problems in people over 55 but may also be prescribed to younger individuals in some cases. In the US, melatonin is considered a dietary supplement. Hence, it is available without a prescription. However, its unguided use, especially during pregnancy, may negatively affect the mother and the baby. Read on to know if melatonin is safe for pregnant women, its potential side effects, and safer alternatives. [mj-toc] What Is Melatonin? Melatonin is a hormone produced primarily by the pineal gland in the brain in response to darkness. It helps regulate circadian rhythms (24-hour internal clock), such as the sleep-wake cycle, [simple_tooltip text="neuroendocrine rhythms" tooltip="Rhythmic and synchronized release of hormones in response to signals from the nervous system"...
Delayed cord clamping (DCC) has become a standard practice during child’s birth for its significant benefits. The procedure delays umbilical cord severance by a few minutes after childbirth. According to the WHO, cutting the cord is carried out more than one minute after birth or when the umbilical cord has stopped pulsating (1). Delayed cord clamping gives some more time for the beneficial nutrients from the blood in the cord and placenta to travel to the baby (2). Both term and preterm infants continue receiving the benefits of this procedure for several days after birth. However, you should also be aware of some risks of the procedure. Read on to learn more about delayed cord clamping, its benefits, when to avoid it, and how to include it in your birth plan. [mj-toc] How Does Delayed Cord Clamping Work? [caption id="attachment_1050562" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: iStock[/caption] Umbilical cord aids in the transfer of vital nutrients and oxygen from the mother to the baby...
Placenta [simple_tooltip text="encapsulation" tooltip="The process of filling and enclosing capsules for human consumption" ] involves the conversion of the human placenta into dried powder and processed pills, which women ingest postpartum. Several mammals eat their placenta after giving birth, but the tradition is not culturally widespread in humans (1). Although some women believe it might provide several benefits to help them rebound after childbirth, some experts think it may harm the mother and the baby. Read on to learn about placenta encapsulation, its types, benefits, adverse effects, and more. [mj-toc] Is Placenta Encapsulation Safe? [caption id="attachment_1050110" align="alignnone" width="720"] Image: Shutterstock[/caption] The human placenta is known to be a good source of essential micronutrients such as iron and zinc, which are required for healing and overall recovery for postpartum women; however, it also contains minimal amounts of toxic elements (2). Therefore, following the process of placenta encapsulation without proper medical advice is not advisable. Consequently, the Centers for Disease Control and...
Lotus birth, also known as umbilical cord non-severance, is the practice of leaving the umbilical cord and the [simple_tooltip text="placenta" tooltip="A temporary organ that provides the child with oxygen and nutrients" ] with the baby after childbirth until it detaches naturally (1). It can take several days or even a week or more for the placenta and cord to separate (2). The practice of lotus birth has supporters and critics, with some arguing that it has health benefits for the mother and the baby, while others say it poses significant risks. Scroll through to understand the risks and benefits of lotus birth and explore the evidence behind this uncommon practice. [mj-toc] Is Lotus Birth Safe? The uncommon practice of lotus birth is not well understood due to insufficient research. As the placenta becomes non-viable after childbirth, there may be a risk of infection, which may also spread to the baby. Due to a lack of medical evidence, the safety of...