Maternity Blog
 

Herbs and pregnancy – A word of caution

Natural herbs are known sources of rich nutrients, vitamins and minerals. However, their effectiveness during pregnancy is still being debated. Unlike synthetic medicines, herbal products do not come with specific regulated tests or in particular strengths. Many claim adequate research has not been done to testify the safety of herbal supplements.

It is best for pregnant women to consult their medical practitioners before using any herbal supplement. The same herbal product may come in varying strengths and combinations from different manufacturers. So you never know the right dose for you. Although herbs are great nourishment sources, other components in them may prove detrimental to the health of the mother and the fetus.

Some herbal agents have been known to cause miscarriage, premature delivery, uterine contractions, low birth weight and other complications. It is best to avoid green tea, herbal supplements without consulting the health care provider. Some herbs have been known to be good for use during pregnancy. However, it is unsafe to use any of them without advice from a medical practitioner.

Herbs like alfalfa, chamomile, nettles, oatstaw, red raspberry leaf and rose hips are said to be beneficiary. They are good sources of vitamins, enzymes, iron, calcium and other nutrients. They aid in reducing nausea, increasing milk production and easing the labor pains. On the whole, these herbs provide nourishment to the mother, the fetus and help the process of childbirth. However, be sure to consult your health care provider first.

Headache during pregnancy

Experiencing headaches is common during pregnancy. Headaches during the first trimester are usually the result of increased hormones and blood volumes in the system. During the third trimester, headaches are normally caused by stress due to extra weight and high blood pressure. In general, headaches during pregnancy are aggravated by poor postures, lack of sleep, low blood sugar and dehydration.

A woman’s body undergoes extensive changes during pregnancy. Headaches are caused to a variety of changes. It is not advisable to take pain relieving drugs during pregnancy. However, there are a number of natural, harmless ways to relieve your headaches during pregnancy. First of all, it is important to have a healthy lifestyle. Proper posture, adequate rest, exercise and a balanced diet are immensely significant.

Even if you avoid stress, you might experience headaches due to physiological changes during pregnancy. You could try hot compressing your eyes and nose for sinus headaches. For tension headaches use cold compress at the back of your head. Rubbing mint oil on the temples may also help. Massaging the area around the neck and shoulders is another remedy. Relaxation in a dark room also helps relieve headache.

Calcium supplements and herbal supplements also help maintain the tranquility of nerves. Try eating several small meals frequently to help maintain blood sugar levels. Avoid chocolates, alcohol, cheese and other headache triggers. In case of persistent headaches of unusual intensity, contact your doctor immediately. Also, be wary of accompanied swelling in the face or hands, pain in the upper abdomen and blurry vision.

Asthma and Pregnancy

Pregnancy is specifically a period of acute physiological disorder. Most of the mothers feel uncomfortable to go through various medications. But if the person is a sheer victim of asthma she has to remain under the strict supervision of an experienced physician both for the safe existence of herself and of the growing fetus.

The four most disabled condition of asthma include

1. Frequent hospitalization
2. Emergency room visits
3. Lack of physical strength
4. A prevailing uncannyness for various activities

If a pregnant mother suffering from asthma has to go through the above-mentioned conditions then her every step of life would be a struggle for existence. Thus, it is extremely important for pregnant mothers to remain in a condition, free of specific allergens like domestic dust mites, animal dander and other irritants such as cigarette smoke and strong cooking odor.

As soon as an asthma bearing pregnant mother comes to know that she is pregnant she must at once consult her allergist or immunologist about ways of controlling her asthma during pregnancy. The common questions which an asthma victimized pregnant mother would obviously have in her mind include

4. Can women with asthma have safe full term pregnancy?
5. If the asthma has reached an uncontrollable level why would it have an adverse effect on the child inside the mother’s womb?
6. How can the medicines and treatments of asthma affect the growing fetus?
7. Is it safe for pregnant women to practice Lamaze?
8. After delivery is breast-feeding safe in case of women suffering from asthma.

However, for all the above-mentioned circumstances the doctors have several solutions to relief the pregnant mothers and try to make things less complicated for them.