Importance of Staying Physically Active During Pregnancy:Pregnancy is Your Journey:Enjoy your own journey without stressing over others' experiences.This could be the best time of your life.Physical Activity vs. Rest:Ask yourself, 'Should I stay physically active or take rest during pregnancy?' rather than asking others.Staying physically active is highly recommended.One of the best ways to stay active from the beginning of pregnancy to just before delivery is brisk walking.Benefits of Staying Physically Active:Brisk walking during pregnancy can provide health benefits for both the mother and the baby.Reduces the risk of gestational diabetes mellitus.Alleviates back pain.Eases constipation.Promotes healthy weight gain during pregnancy.Helps in the spontaneous onset of labor, reducing the risk of cesarean delivery.Helps in weight loss after the baby's birth.Advice:Consult your gynecologist whenever you feel the need.Source:-1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8395880/2. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6742678/3. https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/committee-opinion/articles/2020/04/physical-activity-and-exercise-during-pregnancy-and-the-postpartum-period

Whenever there is good news in the family, it fills everybody’s heart with happiness. When a woman is pregnant, her whole life revolves around her pregnancy and her fetus. Everything she does or plans to do relates to her coming newborn, and during this period, she is ready to do and learn whatever is best.The 9 months of her pregnancy are quite demanding. She might face different emotions and feelings. Her diet during pregnancy also changes to a greater extent.There are certain things that can help during pregnancy like brisk walking, good and healthy eating, supplements, sound sleep, etc., but there is one more thing that is definitely very helpful throughout the entire pregnancy until delivery. and that is ‘Deep Breathing Exercises.’Still have questions about Deep Breathing Exercises ? Gettrustworthy answers from verified sources onAsk Medwiki.Deep breathing exercises have numerous benefits:1. Reduces Anxiety:Helps in reducing the anxiety of the pregnant mother before delivery.2. Increases Confidence:Boosts self-confidence and self-efficacy.3. Enhances Control During Labor:Increases the feeling of being in control during labor.4. Reduces Pain Intensity:Helps in reducing pain intensity during the first stage of labor.5. Mobilizes Pelvic Muscles:Assists in mobilizing the pelvic muscles.6. Activates and Oxygenates Abdominal Muscles:Ensures that the abdominal muscles are actively contracted and oxygenated.7. Shortens Labor Duration:Helps in shortening the duration of the second stage of labor.Go ahead with the deep breathing exercises and have an amazing pregnancy and a wonderful delivery.Source:-1. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9675115/2. https://journal.unnes.ac.id/sju/jubk/article/view/22489

Causes and Remedies for Heartburn During Pregnancy:Causes of Heartburn:1. Pregnancy Hormone Progesterone:This hormone relaxes the muscle that closes the food pipe, making it harder for it to function properly.The muscle or valve doesn't close when it should, causing food and acid to flow back up into the esophagus.2. Growing Baby and Uterus:As pregnancy progresses, increased pressure on the stomach leads to more backflow of food into the food pipe.This makes heartburn worse.3. Foods that Increase Heartburn:Tea, coffeeFatty foodsChocolateCitrus foods (e.g., oranges, lemons)Spicy foodsAlcohol4. Foods to Avoid:Avoiding these foods can help manage heartburn during pregnancy.Source:-1. https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/related-conditions/common-symptoms/indigestion-and-heartburn/2. https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/staying-healthy-during-pregnancy/pregnancy-and-heartburn

Postpartum depression (PPD) is a significant mental health issue affecting many women after childbirth. The transition to motherhood, although a joyful experience, can be challenging due to the substantial physical, emotional, and psychological changes a woman undergoes.Challenges Faced by Women with Postpartum Depression:Difficulty sleepingMood swingsChanges in appetiteFear of harmExcessive worry about the babyFeelings of sadness and crying spellsFeelings of doubtLack of concentrationDisinterest in daily activitiesPotential Causes of Postpartum Depression:History of depression or anxietyHaving multiple pregnancies or frequent childbirthPregnancy-related complications (e.g., emergency cesarean section, low birth weight baby)Young age during pregnancyLack of emotional and financial support from societyPoor lifestyle habits (poor diet, lack of sleep, low physical activity)Deficiency in nutrients like Vitamin B6, Zinc, and SeleniumWays to Reduce the Risk of Postpartum Depression:Exclusively breastfeeding infants for the first 3 monthsConsuming a balanced diet including vegetables, fruits, legumes, seafood, dairy products, olive oil, and various nutritious foodsReceiving full support from the husbandSource:-https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5561681/https://www.who.int/teams/mental-health-and-substance-use/promotion-prevention/maternal-mental-health

Trying to Get Pregnant for Over a Year? Are you tired of trying various fertility foods and sex positions in the bedroom?Not seeing those double pink lines on your pregnancy test can make you feel guilty and stressed about the mistakes you might be making.In this video, we will discuss 5 common mistakes that couples make while trying to get pregnant.1. Not Knowing the Exact Day of OvulationMistake: Women often don't know their exact ovulation day.Tip: For women with a 28-day cycle, ovulation usually occurs on the 14th day from the start of their period. The chances of getting pregnant are higher on the ovulation day than on other days of the cycle.2. Not Having Enough Sex or Only on Ovulation DayMistake: Not having enough sex or only having sex on the day of ovulation.Tip: Ovulation means that eggs are released into the fallopian tube, where they can stay for up to 5 to 6 days. Your chances of getting pregnant are still high during these days.3. Not Quitting Alcohol and SmokingMistake: Not stopping alcohol and smoking until pregnancy is confirmed.Tip: Drinking can decrease fertility in women and reduce sperm count in men. Smoking can damage the quality of both eggs and sperm, leading to infertility.4. Planning a Pregnancy in the Late 30sMistake: Planning a pregnancy in the late 30s.Tip: Research shows that fertility in both men and women decreases by 50% in the late 30s. The quality and quantity of eggs and sperm start to decrease after 30, making it harder to get pregnant.5. Using Water-Based LubricantsMistake: Using water-based lubricants during sex.Tip: Water-based lubricants can decrease the quality or survival rate of sperm, preventing pregnancy. Using oil-based lubricants may have very little effect on sperm quality.If you are stressed after realizing these mistakes, remember that stress itself can be a factor in not getting pregnant. Stay positive and focus on avoiding these common mistakes while trying to conceive.Source:-1. Taylor A. (2003). ABC of subfertility: extent of the problem. BMJ (Clinical research ed.), 327(7412), 434–436. https://doi.org/10.1136/bmj.327.7412.434https://www.bmj.com/content/327/7412/4342. Rooney, K. L., & Domar, A. D. (2018). The relationship between stress and infertility. Dialogues in clinical neuroscience, 20(1), 41–47. https://doi.org/10.31887/DCNS.2018.20.1/klrooney

Many pregnant women often wonder if their growing baby is safe and healthy.Visiting a doctor frequently is not always convenient,How can you check if your growing baby is healthy at home?Symptoms During Pregnancy:There are many symptoms during pregnancy that indicate the baby is doing well. Let’s explore these symptoms:Nausea and Dizziness:Women often experience nausea and dizziness, which is completely normal due to hormonal changes during pregnancy.Difficulty Breathing:As the baby grows, the uterus exerts pressure upwards, causing difficulty in breathing.Additionally, back pain, shoulder pain, and lower back pain can occur, which are signs of a healthy baby.Weight Gain:During the second and third trimesters, a mother’s weight can increase by 10-12 kg. Stretch marks may appear on the abdomen, breasts, or other parts of the body.Breast Changes:Your breasts may feel heavy, and you might experience nipple pain. The area around the nipples can also darken, indicating that your breasts are preparing to produce milk for the baby.Baby Movements:In the second trimester, the baby starts moving and kicking. Some women feel these movements by the 5th month, while others might feel them earlier.Swollen Feet:Due to the growing baby and uterus, women might experience swelling in their feet. The veins in the feet might become visible, a condition known as varicose veins. This is also a sign of a healthy baby.To understand the signs of potential risks to the baby in the womb, watch our next video. For more such information, like, share, and subscribe to our channel, MedWiki.Source:-1. Kepley JM, Bates K, Mohiuddin SS. Physiology, Maternal Changes. [Updated 2023 Mar 12]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2024 Jan-. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK539766/2. Soma-Pillay, P., Nelson-Piercy, C., Tolppanen, H., & Mebazaa, A. (2016). Physiological changes in pregnancy. Cardiovascular journal of Africa, 27(2), 89–94. https://doi.org/10.5830/CVJA-2016-021

Pregnancy is an exciting journey, but it also brings a whirlwind of changes to your body. Some of these changes are expected, like morning sickness or cravings, while others can catch you off guard. One such change that often raises concern is noticing a black color in your poop duringpregnancy. It’s normal to feel anxious about this, but understanding why it happens, whether it’s harmless, and when to seek medical attention can help you stay calm and proactive.Why Stool Color Changes During PregnancyDuring pregnancy, your body experiences hormonal, dietary, and digestive changes, all of which can influence stool color. Normally, healthy stool ranges from light to dark brown. However, pregnancy can introduce other colors, such as green, black, or clay-colored stools.Green poop is usually harmless, often resulting from consuming leafy greens or other foods rich in chlorophyll.Black poop may be caused byiron supplements, medications, or, in rare cases, bleeding in the digestive tract.Clay-colored stools can indicate liver or gallbladder problems and should be monitored carefully.By understanding the causes of these changes, you can differentiate between normal variations and symptoms that may require medical attention.Common Causes of Black Poop During PregnancyIron SupplementsOne of the most common reasons for black poop during pregnancy is iron supplementation. Pregnant women are often prescribed iron to prevent or treat anemia, as iron is crucial for producing hemoglobin, the protein that carries oxygen in the blood.Iron supplements can darken stool, sometimes giving it an almost black appearance. This is generally harmless and expected. Some women may also experience constipation, nausea, or abdominal discomfort as side effects. To ease these effects, you can:Drink plenty of water to prevent dehydrationInclude fiber-rich foods like fruits, vegetables, and whole grainsTake the supplement with food if your doctor advises itNot all iron supplements affect stool color the same way. Some may cause mild darkening, while others produce a more noticeable black stool. Monitoring your stool after starting a new supplement helps you distinguish between normal changes and potential problems.Medications and AntibioticsCertain medications can also darken stool. Bismuth-containing medications, commonly used to treat upset stomach or diarrhea, and some antibiotics can react with digestive enzymes and turn stool black. Usually, this change is temporary and resolves once the medication is stopped.If you notice black stool after starting a new medication, note the timing and discuss it with your doctor. This helps confirm whether the change is harmless or requires further investigation.Digestive Tract BleedingWhile most cases of black stool during pregnancy are harmless, dark black or tarry stool can sometimes indicate bleeding in the upper digestive tract, including the stomach or small intestine. Common causes of bleeding include:Peptic ulcersGastritis orinflammation of the stomach liningSevere acid refluxUpper digestive bleeding may occur without pain, making it essential to pay attention to persistent black or tarry stools. Signs such as dizziness, fatigue, or vomiting, alongside black stool, require immediate medical attention.Dietary FactorsFoods with dark pigments can also temporarily turn stool black. Consuming black licorice, blueberries,dark chocolate, or artificially colored foods may cause this effect. Unlike black stool caused by bleeding, diet-related stool changes are usually short-lived and harmless. Observing whether your stool changes after eating specific foods helps differentiate minor causes from more serious ones.Liver or Gallbladder IssuesAlthough less common, very light or clay-colored stools may indicate liver or gallbladder problems. Pregnancy places extra stress on the liver as it processes hormones and nutrients. Blockages in bile flow can alter stool color. If pale stools occur with abdominal pain, jaundice, or nausea, it is crucial to seek medical care promptly.Gut Health During PregnancyPregnancy affects the digestive system in several ways. Progesterone relaxes intestinal muscles, slowing digestion and sometimes leading to constipation or changes in stool color. This slowdown can make stool appear darker, especially when taking iron supplements or medications.Pregnancy also alters the gut microbiome, the balance of good and bad bacteria in your intestines. A healthy microbiome is essential for proper digestion and nutrient absorption. Probiotic-rich foods such as yogurt, kefir, or fermented vegetables can support gut health and help maintain regular bowel movements during pregnancy.Real-Life ExamplesMany pregnant women notice black stool after starting iron supplements. For example, a first-time mother might start taking prenatal vitamins and see black stools a few days later. Another woman may eat a diet rich in blueberries or black licorice and notice temporary dark stools. These scenarios are usually harmless, especially if accompanied by no other symptoms.On the other hand, if black stool is persistent, tarry, and accompanied by fatigue, dizziness, or abdominal pain, it may indicate gastrointestinal bleeding and should be evaluated immediately by a doctor. Recognizing these patterns helps expectant mothers differentiate between normal variations and potential warning signs.Monitoring Your StoolKeeping track of stool color, consistency, and frequency can help you identify patterns and potential issues. Here’s how:Maintain a Stool Diary:Note the color, texture, and timing of your bowel movements daily.Record Diet and Supplements:Track meals, supplements, and medications to identify possible triggers for black stool.Observe Symptoms:Note any abdominal pain, nausea, fatigue, or unusual symptoms that accompany stool changes.This information is valuable for your doctor to determine whether black stool is a harmless side effect or a sign of an underlying issue.When to Seek Medical AdviceWhile many causes of black stool are harmless, some situations require medical attention:Persistent black or tarry stool not linked to supplements or dietBlood in stool or vomitSevere or persistent abdominal painUnexplained fatigue, dizziness, or lightheadednessYellowing of the skin or eyes (jaundice)Medical evaluation may include blood tests, stool tests, or endoscopy to identify the cause of black stool. Prompt attention ensures your health and your baby’s safety.Managing Stool ChangesHere are practical ways to manage stool changes during pregnancy:Track Supplements and Medications: Keep a record of prenatal vitamins and other medications.Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to support digestion and prevent constipation.Eat Fiber-Rich Foods: Fruits, vegetables, and whole grains aid bowel movements.Exercise Gently: Walking, swimming, or prenatal yoga stimulates digestion.Schedule Regular Checkups: Routine prenatal visits allow early detection of digestive issues.Emotional ReassuranceNoticing black stool can be stressful, especially for first-time mothers. Educating yourself about common causes, such as iron supplements and certain foods, can reduce unnecessary anxiety. Open communication with your doctor ensures that any concerns are addressed promptly, giving you peace of mind.Pregnancy is a time of immense change. Understanding your body and knowing when to worry helps you focus on a healthy pregnancy rather than unnecessary stress.Lifestyle Tips for Digestive HealthMaintaining a healthy digestive system is important during pregnancy:Eat Balanced Meals: Include fiber, protein, and healthy fats for optimal digestion.Limit Processed Foods: High-fat, high-sugar foods can slow digestion and worsen constipation.Practice Mindful Eating: Chew thoroughly and eat slowly to support digestive function.Manage Stress: Relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, and prenatal yoga help regulate digestion.Final ThoughtsSeeing black poop during pregnancy can be alarming, but most of the time, it is a normal response to iron supplements, certain medications, or foods. Persistent or unusual changes, however, should never be ignored. Monitoring stool, noting associated symptoms, and consulting your healthcare provider ensures safety for both you and your baby.Pregnancy brings many physical changes, and slight variations in stool color are often normal. Staying informed, proactive, and in communication with your healthcare team allows you to enjoy your pregnancy with confidence. Trust your instincts if something feels off, seek professional advice. Your body and your baby deserve careful attention, and understanding the causes of black stool during pregnancy is one step toward a healthier, worry-free journey. FollowMedwikifor more!Frequently Asked Questions1. What causes black poop during pregnancy?It is most commonly caused by iron supplements, certain medicines, or eating dark-colored foods.2. Is black poop normal in pregnancy?Yes, it can be normal, especially if you are taking iron tablets or prenatal vitamins.3. Can iron supplements make stool black?Yes, iron supplements often turn stool dark or black, and this is harmless.4. When should black stool be a concern?If the stool is tarry, persistent, or comes with pain, dizziness, or weakness, see a doctor.5. Can food cause black poop during pregnancy?Yes, foods like blueberries, black licorice, or dark chocolate can temporarily darken stool.6. Does black poop affect the baby?No, black poop caused by diet or supplements does not affect the baby.7. How long does black stool last during pregnancy?It usually lasts as long as the cause remains, such as ongoing iron intake, and stops once the cause is removed.

1. Coconut Oil MassageProperties: Coconut oil can quickly and effectively soak into our skin. This helps to make our skin more hydrated, improve its flexibility, and relieve itching.Instructions To Use: Warm the coconut oil and apply it to the itchy areas. Massage it until the oil is completely absorbed into the skin.2. Neem Leaves BathProperties: Neem has anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, antifungal, and antiseptic properties that fight itching and skin irritation. It provides a cooling and soothing effect on the skin.Instructions To Use: Boil one cup of neem leaves in water. Let it cool, and then use it for bathing. Bathing with this water can help reduce itching and prevent skin infections.3. Turmeric PasteProperties: Turmeric contains curcumin, which has anti-inflammatory, antifungal, and antioxidant properties that can relieve itching.Instructions To Use: Mix turmeric powder with water to create a paste. Apply the paste to the itchy areas and leave it for 15-20 minutes before rinsing off. Taking turmeric as a supplement or adding it to milk and tea can also help manage itchiness.4. Sandalwood PasteProperties: Sandalwood has antiseptic, antimicrobial properties that is useful in treating redness, itching, and inflammation, and other skin conditions like eczema, dermatitis, and psoriasis.Instructions To Use: Mix sandalwood powder with water to form a paste. Apply the paste to the itchy areas and leave it on for 30 minutes before rinsing off.5. Aloe Vera Gel:Properties: Aloe Vera has more than 90% water content, which is rich in essential vitamins like Vitamin C and E. It keeps skin hydrated and nourished and reduces itching.Instructions To Use: Extract fresh aloe vera gel from the leaves and apply it directly to the itchy areas. Leave it on for 15 to 20 minutes before washing with water.6 Oatmeal Bath:Properties: Oatmeal creates a protection layer on the top of skin which lock the moisture inside, avoiding dryness and relieve from itchiness.Instructions To Use: Add finely powdered oatmeal to a bathtub filled with warm water and soak in it for 15-20 minutes.Other Tips for Relieve Itching During PregnancyIn addition to these remedies, making some lifestyle changes can help relieve itching during pregnancy:- Wear loose, and clothes made of natural fabrics like cotton.- Keep the skin well-hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout the day.- Avoid hot water bath and choose to bath with lukewarm water to prevent further drying of the skin. Hot water can remove the natural oils of skin, leading to dryness and increased itching.- Use gentle, fragrance-free soaps or hypoallergenic products and avoid harsh chemicals that can irritate the skin.PrecautionsWhen using natural remedies, it is important to perform a patch test to ensure that the ingredients do not cause any adverse reactions. Additionally, if the itching is severe or accompanied by other symptoms, it is important to seek medical advice.Source:-1. Stefaniak, A.A., Pereira, M.P., Zeidler, C. et al. Pruritus in Pregnancy. Am J Clin Dermatol 23, 231–246 (2022). https://doi.org/10.1007/s40257-021-00668-72. Gopinath, H., & Karthikeyan, K. (2021). Neem in Dermatology: Shedding Light on the Traditional Panacea. Indian journal of dermatology, 66(6), 706. https://doi.org/10.4103/ijd.ijd_562_213. Prasad S, Aggarwal BB. Turmeric, the Golden Spice: From Traditional Medicine to Modern Medicine. In: Benzie IFF, Wachtel-Galor S, editors. Herbal Medicine: Biomolecular and Clinical Aspects. 2nd edition. Boca Raton (FL): CRC Press/Taylor & Francis; 2011. Chapter 13. Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK92752/