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/

Changes that occur in a mother during pregnancy:-Weight Gain: With a growing baby, the mother's body also grows, leading to increase in weight.- Hormonal Fluctuations: Various changes occurs in body due to pregnancy hormones, that may affect the skin, hair, and mood.- Stretch Marks: The skin stretches to accommodate the growing baby, which results in stretch marks in areas like belly, thighs, and breasts.-Swelling: Many women develop swelling in their feet, ankles, and hands due to water accumulation in body.-Itching: Itching on the stomach, breasts, and other parts of the body is commonly seen during pregnancy.Causes of Itching During Pregnancy:-Itching during pregnancy can be caused due to a various number of factors, such as:1. Changes in Hormones: Fluctuating hormone levels can lead to dry and itchy skin.2. Stretching skin: As the belly expands to accommodate the growing baby, the skin stretches, causing itchiness.3. Liver conditions: In some cases, intense itching, especially on the palms and soles, can indicate a liver condition called intrahepatic cholestasis of pregnancy (ICP).Pregnancy brings transformative yet natural changes to a woman's body as it nurtures new life. Discomforts like itching often result from hormonal shifts and stretching skin. These changes are temporary and normal, as they usually go away with time after the birth of baby.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. Management of pruritus in pregnancy. (1991, January 1). Management of pruritus in pregnancy.3. Varma SR, Sivaprakasam TO, Arumugam I, et al. In vitro anti-inflammatory and skin protective properties of Virgin coconut oil. J Tradit Complement Med. 2018;9(1):5-14. Published 2018 Jan 17. doi:10.1016/j.jtcme.2017.06.0124. 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_215. 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/Disclaimer:-This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment. Do not ignore or delay professional medical advice based on anything you have seen or read on Medwiki.Find us at:https://www.instagram.com/medwiki_/?h…https://twitter.com/medwiki_inchttps://www.facebook.com/medwiki.co.in/

As soon as a you find out that you are pregnant, it becomes important for you to take extra care of your physical as well as mental health. In terms of physical health, you should take care of your diet, exercise and overall lifestyle.10 Foods that can help in weight gain of fetus during pregnancy:1. Milk and milk products: Milk and milk products (paneer, curd, yogurt, etc) are rich sources of protein and calcium.2. Eggs: Eggs provide an exceptional protein source and fatty acids with a large variety of vitamins, minerals, and bioactive compounds.3. Sprouts: The protein content in sprouts is significantly high. They are also rich in vitamins, minerals and fibre which are very beneficial. Whole Moong dal, Black chana, etc can be sprouted and consumed.4. Dry Fruits: Dry fruits like almonds, walnuts, hazelnuts are another very good source of protein. At least one fistful of dry fruits should be included in daily diet.5. Chicken and Fish: Rich source of protein, vitamins and antioxidants.6. Avocados: They are rich source of Vitamin C, Folate, Vitamin B6 and healthy fat.7. Soyabean: A protein rich food for vegetarians. It is also rich in iron, healthy fats and fibre along with other minerals.8. Beans and Lentils: Beans and lentils are rich in protein as well as zinc, an essential mineral required for fetal weight gain.9. Fruits: Fruits like banana, berries, oranges are rich source of folate, potassium and Vitamin C. Vitamin C helps to build immunity and let better iron absorption leading to healthy fetal development.10. Oats: Oats are excellent source of carbohydrates, selenium, Vitamin B, phosphorus and calcium.Protein is critical in ensuring proper growth and development of an unborn child. Hence, consumption of foods from diverse food groups with focus on protein rich diet will always be a nutritional option for increasing fetal weight.Source:-1. Milk and Protein Intake by Pregnant Women Affects Growth of Foetus 2. The potential of a simple egg to improve maternal and child nutritionDisclaimer:-This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment. Do not ignore or delay professional medical advice based on anything you have seen or read on Medwiki.Find us at:https://www.instagram.com/medwiki_/?h...https://twitter.com/medwiki_inchttps://www.facebook.com/medwiki.co.in/

Having a baby is one of the most exciting things that can happen to a woman. As soon as you get to know “You Are Pregnant” talk to your doctor for an organized care during the entire 9 months.What is 1st week of Pregnancy?Week 1 of pregnancy is calculated from the first day of the last menstrual period. Although a woman is not actually pregnant at this point, counting week 1 from the last menstrual period helps determine an estimated due date.What changes will I feel in 1st week?Some women have no pregnancy symptoms at week 1, while some may experience early symptoms like breast tenderness, fatigue, nausea and mild cramping. However, a missed menstrual period is the primary symptom of early pregnancy.Focus on:As soon as you get to know you are pregnant, priority is to take care of your health. Make routine for your diet, exercise and maintain a balanced overall lifestyle.Additional food and extra care are required during pregnancy, to maintain good health for bothy you and your growing fetus.1. Try to eat more of:- Energy giving foods: Cereals (Wheat, Rice, Millets, Bread, Oats etc.) and Oils/Fats.- Protein rich foods: Milk, Milk Products, Fish, Meat, Poultry, Pulses and Nuts.- Vitamins/Minerals: All seasonal fruits and vegetables.- Fluids: At least 8-12 glasses of water everyday.2. Start with some supplements like folic acid and vitamin D after consulting your doctor.3. Regular exercise (non-strenuous) with adequate rest.Avoid:1. Snacks that are high in fat/ sugar, instead consume fruits, salads, low-fat yoghurt, dry fruits, soups, etc.2. Beverages like tea/ coffee bind iron and make it unavailable. Avoid them3. hours before and after the meal.4. Alcohol, Smoking or Chewing Tobacco.5. Any medications, without consulting your doctor.6. X-Rays.7. Any dental treatments (make sure your dentist knows you are pregnant).Source:-1. Pregnancy: By NIPCCDhttps://www.nipccd.nic.in/file/elearn/faq/fq252. Dietary guidelines, National Institute of Nutritionhttps://www.nin.res.in/downloads/DietaryGuidelinesforNINwebsite3. The Pregnancy Book https://www.stgeorges.nhs.uk/wp-content/uploads/2013/11/Pregnancy_Book_comp

Treating depression during pregnancy requires careful consideration due to its effects on both the mother and the unborn baby. Here are several treatment options to consider:-Psychotherapy, also known as talk therapy, involves working with a therapist to identify and manage the causes of depression and improve mental health. Common types include Cognitive Behavioral Therapy (CBT) and Interpersonal Therapy (IPT).Participating in support groups can be beneficial for pregnant women with depression. It prevents feelings of isolation and offers the opportunity to learn coping strategies from others in similar situations.Light therapy, which involves exposure to bright light typically through a specialized light box, can help regulate circadian rhythms and improve mood in people with depression.Including omega-3 fatty acids in the diet, found in foods like salmon, tuna, flaxseeds, chia seeds, and walnuts, may help decrease symptoms of depression in pregnant women.Certain herbal and vitamin supplements, such as St. John's Wort, 5-Hydroxy Tryptophan (5-HTP), magnesium, and vitamin B6, may affect mood and serotonin levels. However, their safety and efficacy in pregnant women need to be considered by a doctor.Engaging in physical activities such as walking, swimming, and prenatal yoga can help increase serotonin levels and decrease cortisol levels, thereby reducing symptoms of depression.Consuming more fruits and vegetables while avoiding excessive caffeine, sugar, and processed foods can help manage stress and alleviate depression.Prioritizing good sleep hygiene and practicing yoga, meditation, and other relaxation techniques can improve the body and mind's ability to handle stress and reduce depression during pregnancy.Source:- 1. Wichman, C. L., & Stern, T. A. (2015). Diagnosing and Treating Depression During Pregnancy. The primary care companion for CNS disorders, 17(2), 10.4088/PCC.15f01776. https://doi.org/10.4088/PCC.15f01776Source:-2. Depression in pregnancy. (n.d.). Depression in pregnancy. Retrieved April 24, 2024, from https://www.nhs.uk/pregnancy/keeping-well/depression/Disclaimer:-This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment. Do not ignore or delay professional medical advice based on anything you have seen or read on Medwiki.Find us at:https://www.instagram.com/medwiki_/?h...https://twitter.com/medwiki_inchttps://www.facebook.com/medwiki.co.in/

Some strategies you find helpful for managing stress during pregnancy:-About 10% of pregnant women feel sad or down during pregnancy, and in India, it's around 20%.Feeling sad during pregnancy is called prenatal depression.Anyone can feel depressed, but pregnant women are more likely to because of body changes.Hormone changes like progesterone and estrogen can make the brain feel sad.Pregnant women worry about the baby growing well and moving correctly, which makes a stress hormone called cortisol.Too much cortisol can make depression worse.Being over 30, changes in how you look, problems with relationships, not having friends around, and money worries can also make you feel sad during pregnancy.If you've felt sad before or had mental health issues, you're more likely to feel down during pregnancy.If not treated, severe depression during pregnancy can harm the baby.Look out for these signs:Sleeping differentlyNot wanting to eatThinking bad thoughtsFeeling guiltyGaining weightAlways feeling tiredSource:- 1. Ajinkya, S., Jadhav, P. R., & Srivastava, N. N. (2013). Depression during pregnancy: Prevalence and obstetric risk factors among pregnant women attending a tertiary care hospital in Navi Mumbai. Industrial psychiatry journal, 22(1), 37–40. https://doi.org/10.4103/0972-6748.123615Source:-2. Duko, B., Ayano, G. & Bedaso, A. Depression among pregnant women and associated factors in Hawassa city, Ethiopia: an institution-based cross-sectional study. Reprod Health 16, 25 (2019). https://doi.org/10.1186/s12978-019-0685-xDisclaimer:-This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment. Do not ignore or delay professional medical advice based on anything you have seen or read on Medwiki.Find us at:https://www.instagram.com/medwiki_/?h...https://twitter.com/medwiki_inchttps://www.facebook.com/medwiki.co.in

Here's a simplified version:The World Health Organization (WHO) says that 10% of pregnant women and 13% of new moms worldwide have depression. In developing countries, it's even higher: 15.6% during pregnancy and 19.8% after childbirth.Depression during pregnancy can cause problems for both the mom and the baby:1.It makes preterm birth more likely, which is when the baby is born too early, before 37 weeks.2.It also increases the chance of the baby being smaller and weighing less than expected at birth.Depression during pregnancy can affect how the baby acts, making them more fussy, less active, less focused, and less expressive than babies of moms without depression.If depression isn't treated, it can cause mental and learning issues for the child later in life, like trouble with school, language, and managing emotions.Depression during pregnancy can lead to other problems like difficult delivery, a higher chance of needing a cesarean section, and depression after childbirth.In serious cases, untreated depression during pregnancy can lead to thoughts of suicide, self-harm, or harming the unborn baby, which is dangerous for both the mom and the baby.Source:- 1. Jahan, N., Went, T. R., Sultan, W., Sapkota, A., Khurshid, H., Qureshi, I. A., & Alfonso, M. (2021). Untreated Depression During Pregnancy and Its Effect on Pregnancy Outcomes: A Systematic Review. Cureus, 13(8), e17251. https://doi.org/10.7759/cureus.17251Source:-2. Maternal depression and child development. (2004).Paediatrics & child health,9(8), 575–598. https://doi.org/10.1093/pch/9.8.575Disclaimer:-This information is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider before making any changes to your treatment. Do not ignore or delay professional medical advice based on anything you have seen or read on Medwiki.Find us at:https://www.instagram.com/medwiki_/?h...https://twitter.com/medwiki_inchttps://www.facebook.com/medwiki.co.in/

Why do taste preferences change during pregnancy? It can be due to variety of factors, including hormonal fluctuations, increased sensitivity to smell and taste, and the influence of nutritional needs on food cravings. While the other factors can be:Hormonal changes, such as the production of human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG), can cause nausea, appetite changes, and food aversions.Pregnant women may experience increased sensitivity to smell and taste, which can influence their food preferences.Some studies suggest that pregnant women may have a decreased sensitivity to sweet taste in the first trimester, but this is not a consistent finding across all studies.In the second trimester, pregnant women have been found to consume more sweet foods, but not salty or non-sweet/non-salty foods due to hormonal changes, and changes in the sense of smell.However, more research is needed to fully understand the variation in taste during pregnancySource:-Bowen D. J. (1992). Taste and food preference changes across the course of pregnancy. Appetite, 19(3), 233–242. https://doi.org/10.1016/0195-6663(92)90164-2