Search Results for: pregnancy loss

Causes of Pregnancy Loss or Miscarriage

The true cause of 25-60% of pregnancy losses is unknown. Where it is known the causes could vary from medical conditions affecting the baby itself to those affecting the mother.

Most pregnancy losses within the first trimester are due to genetic disorders in the baby which are not compatible with life.

Thereafter,

  • structural or functional abnormalities with the body of the mother’s womb or placenta or cervix,
  • pre-existing medical conditions in the mother such as sickle cell disease, poorly controlled diabetes or hypertension, pre-eclampsia and thyroid disease,
  • hormonal imbalances,
  • incompatibilities with the mother and baby’s blood group (eg. Rhesus incompatibilities),
  • immune diseases such as antiphospholipid syndrome,
  • infections and
  • trauma are common causes of stillbirth.

Some of these conditions may threaten the ability of the mother’s body to sustain the pregnancy to its completion. They do this directly or cause abnormalities in the unborn baby that may not be compatible with its survival.

Useful advice for going back to work after a miscarriage

What causes miscarriages?

The true cause of 25-60% of pregnancy losses is unknown. Where it is known the causes could vary from medical conditions affecting the baby itself to those affecting the mother.

Why Is Finding Out the Cause Important?

The essence of exploring the causes of pregnancy loss with your health provider (where possible) is to set in motion a plan of action. The aim is to permanently correct any abnormality, manage any chronic condition proactively. Thus, we may be better prepared to forestall a repeat pregnancy loss the next time the mother conceives.

With the guilt that follows miscarriages, some individuals believe that sexual intercourse, strenuous exercise or work can lead to miscarriages. On the contrary, there is no known evidence to support this notion.

A story of still birth

What do you Feel When a miscarriage Occurs?

Sometimes a pregnancy loss may be silent ie. the mother may not observe any obvious signs coming to the knowledge of what has occurred during a routine check or after a missed period.

Common symptoms include:

  • bleeding of various degrees,
  • passage of the fetus or bits of tissue from your vagina,
  • abdominal cramps of various degrees, fever,
  • lower back pain and loss of previously felt symptoms of pregnancy such as breast fullness, nausea.


Once a total or imminent pregnancy loss is confirmed, your health care provider will need to ensure that your womb is completely empty. This is verified through a series of tests which would include an ultra sound scan as well as give you medication and/or perform a surgical procedure on you.

What causes miscarriages ?

MISCARRIAGE OR PREGNANCY LOSS IN NIGERIA

“I felt lost and alone and I felt like I failed because I didn’t know how common miscarriages were, because we don’t talk about them.”

Michelle Obama in her autobiography titled “Becoming”

“It turns out that even two committed go-getters with a deep love and robust work ethic can’t will themselves into being pregnant.”

Michelle Obama in her autobiography titled “Becoming”
cramps may be a symptom of pregnancy loss
Always report severe cramps to your doctor

I particularly love these quotes from America’s former first lady. For someone idolised by women all over the world it was an honest admission to a devastating but very common issue. An issue that affects women of reproductive age the world over; pregnancy loss.
It was almost permission for women to acknowledge as valid, their feelings of loss, inadequacy, guilt and confusion at what society perceives as a basic ability of every woman. The ability to conceive and carrying a pregnancy to it’s successful completion.

Experiencing a miscarriage personally opened my eyes to the prospect of it happening to anybody. Speaking about it years after with women I knew exposed me to how close to home it could come. Relatives and friends had experienced it and never talked about it openly. It’s not something we do openly in our society.

What is A Miscarriage?

Pregnancy loss is the spontaneous termination of a pregnancy. If the demise of the baby occurs within the first 3 months to 20 weeks of life in the womb, (or when it would have been considered as viable) it is termed an abortion or miscarriage. However, a loss above 20 weeks is considered a stillbirth.

80% of all pregnancy losses occur within the first 3 months of pregnancy and 15-25% of recognised pregnancies will end in miscarriage. Click here to learn about the common causes of miscarriages.

Finally, you can find out tips on what to do if when a miscarriage occurs here.

A father’s account of pregnancy loss

EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT A CHEMICAL PREGNANCY

A chemical pregnancy, often referred to as a biochemical pregnancy, is a miscarriage that occurs early on before ultrasounds can detect a foetus. It is not a false pregnancy but the loss of a pregnancy before the fifth week of gestation, usually around the time a menstrual period is expected.

chemical pregnancy
Image Source: Pexels.com

In a biochemical pregnancy, the blood test results are positive although no fetus is growing. What causes a chemical pregnancy? What are the symptoms? And what treatment options are available?

Read on to find out!

Symptoms of a Chemical Pregnancy

A chemical pregnancy may have no signs or symptoms. This is because it typically does not persist long enough to result in pregnancy-related side effects like nausea and exhaustion. Some women may even miscarry early without knowing they are pregnant.

However, in some women who experience symptoms, it may present as a heavy period with cramping in pregnancy. Some other signs include:

  • a blood pregnancy test showing low hCG levels
  • mild to severe abdominal cramps during a period 
  • light spotting a week or so before the start of a regular period

In a biochemical pregnancy, pregnancy hormones are detectable but low, so you are unlikely to feel any of the typical early symptoms like exhaustion or pregnancy-induced nausea and vomiting.

biochemical pregnancy
Image Source: Pexels.com

Causes of Chemical Pregnancy

There are no precise causes of biochemical pregnancies. However, in the majority of cases, a miscarriage may be caused by an abnormal embryo. Other causes may include:

  • abnormal hormone levels
  • uterine abnormalities
  • implantation outside the uterus
  • infections like chlamydia or syphilis which could alter vaginal discharge

Risk Factors

Although there are no sure ways to prevent a chemical pregnancy, there are some identifiable risk factors. Some of these include: 

Outlook

A chemical pregnancy does not mean you won’t be able to get pregnant or give birth normally in the future. Although there is currently no precise treatment for this condition, there are many options to help you get pregnant and deliver a healthy baby.

HOW TO DEAL WITH PREGNANCY DREAMS AND NIGHTMARES

Many pregnant women expect their sleep patterns to change drastically once their baby arrives. However, most do not realize that these sleep changes will begin to occur long before the baby even arrives. One of the major changes experienced by expectant mothers is having vivid pregnancy dreams.

pregnant woman dreaming
Image Source: Pexels.com

How exactly do dreams change during pregnancy? What causes these changes? And how can you cope? Read more to find out.

Dream Changes During Pregnancy

Dreams are a typical occurrence for everyone, whether or not they are expecting. However, pregnancy can affect your dreams by increasing their frequency, vividness, and content. Here are the common changes that many women experience during pregnancy:

Vivid Dreams

Normally, some people frequently experience vivid dreams during deep sleep. However, for others, pregnancy can be the trigger for vivid dreams. This can involve having vivid dreams that appear to have actual events taking place and that are filled with strong, overwhelming emotions.

Frequent Dreams

Some expectant mothers think that being pregnant makes them dream more. This could likely be because pregnant women tend to sleep more because of increased pregnancy fatigue. Thus, the more hours of sleep they get, the more dreams they have. 

While pregnant, you most likely spend the better part of your day thinking about your baby. So it is not surprising that you also have the same thoughts while you’re asleep.

You may dream about your baby being born, and the likely sex of your baby. Additionally, some mothers may also dream about naming, carrying or even talking to their baby. 

  1. Anxiety Dreams

It takes a lot of effort and planning to get ready for a baby. In addition, you can also feel a little anxious despite your excitement. This anxiety could be due to worries about finances, managing your new baby and your older children, and resuming work after childbirth. You may also worry about the uncertainty of labour and childbirth. Since our dreams are generally a reflection of our thoughts, it only makes sense that constant worrying during the day causes you to have anxious dreams at night.

Nightmares

Apart from giving you vivid dreams, pregnancy can also cause you to have nightmares due to heightened emotions and hormones. You could have nightmares about childbirth, or something happening to your baby. If you’ve previously experienced a pregnancy loss or miscarriage, you might dream about that happening again. 

Causes of Pregnancy Dreams and Nightmares

There are numerous reasons why a woman could experience pregnancy dreams. Changes in hormone levels during pregnancy are among the most likely causes. Apart from mood swings, your fluctuating hormones may also cause you to experience more intense, frequent dreams. 

How to Cope With Pregnancy Dreams

The first step to rid yourself of troublesome pregnancy dreams is to cultivate healthy sleeping habits. Some of these include:  

  • Use your bed only for sleep and sex.
  • Maintain a regular sleep schedule by waking and sleeping at a specific time each day.
  • Create a calming nighttime ritual that includes activities like a bath or quiet music.
  • Ensure you obtain a minimum of 7 to 8 hours of sleep by going to bed early.
  • Put all your electronic gadgets away at least 30 minutes before bedtime.
  • Maintain a cool, relaxing atmosphere in your bedroom.
  • Avoid eating or drinking just before bedtime. 
pregnant woman food
 Image Source: Pexels.com

A Word From Edie and Amy

In the end, you may not be able to completely get rid of your pregnancy dreams. You may eventually have to accept that you cannot control your dreams, just like most events in parenthood. 

However, you can make the best of the situation by talking about your dreams and finding humour in them. You may even find keeping a dream journal helpful. Most importantly, ensure you eat well and get as much rest as you can. 

Your First Period After Pregnancy: What to Expect

Your first period after pregnancy is also referred to as the “Postpartum Period.” It is not to be confused with Lochia, although they are similar. 

Postpartum period

Lochia is heavy bleeding from the vagina following childbirth. It typically starts bright red and frequently contains many blood clots. The flow will be heavy for three to ten days after delivery, followed by light bleeding that can last for a month or more. 

Lochia is not a period but an indication that the body is still healing from childbirth, as the uterus sheds the lining that supports the pregnancy. 

After healing, the bleeding stops until it is time for your regular period cycle to resume. How long will this take? What should you expect from your first period after pregnancy? Read on to find out!

When Should You Be Expecting Your First Period After Pregnancy?

Your periods will resume at your body’s own pace after birth. However, when you get your first period after childbirth is determined by many factors. One of them is whether or not you are breastfeeding.
If you are not breastfeeding, your period is expected to return to six to eight weeks after giving birth.

First period after pregnancy

On the other hand, breastfeeding parents do not often see their periods again until they stop nursing. If they however happen to stop breastfeeding for an extended time, they may have their periods. 

Parents who bottle-feed or make use of a combination of breastfeeding and bottle-feeding may begin to see their periods as early as five weeks after giving birth. 

What Will Your First Period After Pregnancy Be Like?

After you have a baby, your menstrual cycle may change. You may experience cramps that are worse or better than before you were pregnant. Your flow may also experience irregular, heavier or unpredictable period lengths and little blood clots in your periods.

Doctors strongly recommend getting medical attention if you have significantly more blood loss than before or have blood clots in your period for more than a week.

Does Your Period Affect Breastfeeding?

If you see your period, your menstrual cycle may have an impact on the amount of milk you produce. This is because the hormonal changes that induce your period may also affect your breast milk. 

breastfeeding and your period

Your milk production may be decreased between ovulation and the start of your period. Experts advise adding calcium and magnesium to your diet to ensure a consistent flow of breast milk throughout your entire cycle. Your period might also change the taste of your breast milk.

If your infant fusses at your breast during your period, it could be an indication that it momentarily tastes different. You can speak with a lactation consultant, who is a health expert who specialises in breastfeeding if you have any questions or concerns regarding nursing. 

Can You Get Pregnant Before Your First Period?

YES, YOU CAN! Even if your periods haven’t come back yet, you can be able to become pregnant as early as three weeks after childbirth. 

This is because even if you do not see your period after giving birth, there’s a one to five per cent chance that you will still ovulate during this time making it possible for you to get pregnant. If you are not ready to have another child, consider birth control choices.

contraceptives

When Should You See a Doctor About Your Period?

A person should see a doctor immediately if they are/have:

  • Bleeding followed by a fever
  • Severe cramping
  • Intense bleeding that soaks through more than a pad per hour for longer than 2 hours
  • Heavy flow, pain, and spotting
  • Clots larger than a quarter
  • An absence of their period three months after they have given birth or stopped breastfeeding.

Life after childbirth might be a lot different from the life you already know, but knowing what to expect and being able to prepare for it makes it easier and much more enjoyable. So prepare and enjoy the ride together with your new bundle of happiness!

Everything You Need To Know About Pregnancy Brain

Over the past few months of being pregnant, you have watched your body change in so many ways. With the ever-growing belly came morning sickness, heartburn, swollen calves, and the persistent need to pee, amongst a plethora of symptoms. 

pregnancy brain

The last thing you were expecting however is forgetfulness and occasional memory lapses. I mean, common! Initially, you thought you were imagining things. But lately, you find yourself constantly trying to remember words at the tip of your tongue, where you dropped your keys or even your due date!

If this is your situation, there is no need to panic. You might be suffering from something called “Pregnancy Brain.” Yep, it is a real thing.

We understand that this may be extremely frustrating and we sympathize with you. As always, we are here to help you – and your brain.

To provide you with some comfort, we have compiled useful information to help you understand the science behind this phenomenon, and essential tips to help you can cope.  

What is Pregnancy Brain?

The term “pregnancy brain” (sometimes known as “momnesia” or “mommy brain”) describes the memory loss and forgetfulness that some women experience during pregnancy and sometimes even after childbirth.

Is Pregnancy Brain Really Real?

Some people may say that pregnancy brain is just a figment of imagination, but many pregnant women will beg to differ. And they are backed by research!

According to some studies, about 81% of expectant mothers struggled to concentrate or had significant memory problems during and after pregnancy. In other studies, memory and cognitive function were compared between women who were pregnant and those who were not. 

What was the result? Your guess is as good as mine. The pregnant women fared significantly worse, especially in the third trimester. That is as real as it gets!

When Does Pregnancy Brain Start?

Clinical studies have revealed that pregnancy brain may begin as early as the first trimester, and get worse in the third trimester. And if you are among the unlucky ones, it may well extend into your child’s toddler years!

What Causes Pregnancy Brain

The causes of pregnancy brain remain unclear, but some possible ones are:

Hormones

Pfft! No surprise there! As always, your fluctuating hormones are to blame for everything. During pregnancy, there is a rapid increase in several hormones.

This hormone surge may have an impact on the brain and memory, making it challenging to concentrate, think clearly, and recall information.

Sleep Deprivation

Most pregnant women will have trouble sleeping at some point in their pregnancy. This sleep deprivation can make you feel totally disoriented and affect your memory.

Stress and Anxiety

Stress – you would feel a lot of it during pregnancy! From making preparations to hospital appointments to scary stories about childbirth, it is easy to get overwhelmed. This stress and anxiety may also make it difficult for you to focus and remember details.

Physical Changes in the Brain 

Some studies have shown that pregnancy may cause alterations in a woman’s brain to help her bond with her baby and adapt to motherhood. Unfortunately, these changes are also believed to cause some form of cognitive impairment and memory loss.

How to Cope With Pregnancy Brain

We understand that pregnancy can be a difficult journey, especially if you are struggling to remember most of it. Thankfully, we have a few tips that may be of help:

Have a Routine: Knowing what you have to do will make it easier to do it. Keep track of your activities by planning with a daily calendar or to-do list, setting reminders for important tasks, and even placing sticky notes around your home. 

Create a “Home’’ for Essentials: Keeping important things like your phone, Airpods and keys in the same place will make it easier to find them the next time.

Healthy Diet: Pregnancy will come with its cravings, we know. Still, it is essential that you try to eat a nutrient-dense diet with fruits, vegetables, and lots of water. 

Sleep and Exercise: Try to get as much sleep and exercise as you can. This will help keep your memory fresh and alert.

Keep Notes: Write down important information with a note-taking app or a notebook. You can even use photos to save visual information like event flyers, slides at a meeting, or even where you parked your car.

Play Brain-Boosting Games: Apart from your body, your brain would also benefit from a good workout. Playing brain-boosting games like Crossword puzzles, and Sudoku will help keep your brain fresh and alert.

Ask for Help: You are going to need all the help you can get during and after your pregnancy. Don’t be shy to ask for it. Reach out to your partner, family, or friends to help with chores, errands, and babysitting. This will help you simplify your daily routine and avoid multitasking. 

Be Kind to Yourself

Pregnancy is a beautiful but tough journey. It will affect your physical, mental, and emotional health. It is a lot to handle, even for strong mama bears like you.

So don’t feel too bad when you can never remember where you kept your keys or when your next appointment is. Forgive yourself when you forget, and enjoy the humorous moments. You’d be back to your smart and witty self before you know it!

Unisom In Pregnancy: Is It Safe?

Morning sickness is a prevalent symptom of pregnancy. In plain terms, morning sickness refers to nausea and vomiting in pregnancy that can occur at any time of day or night. Morning sickness usually begins around the sixth week and lasts throughout the first trimester. As a result, many moms-to-be always search for various treatment options, including using Unisom in pregnancy.

In this article, you will find info about unisom use in pregnancy; the side effects, uses, and possible alternatives to unisom for morning sickness treatment during pregnancy.

When does morning sickness become dangerous?

If your morning sickness is truly incapacitating and no amount of medication is providing relief, you may be suffering from hyperemesis gravidarum. Hyperemesis gravidarum, a more severe form of morning sickness, affects up to 3% of pregnant women.

A woman is diagnosed with this condition when she loses more than 5% of her pre-pregnancy weight and exhibits dehydration symptoms. Women with hyperemesis gravidarum may require medical treatment or hospitalization.

Symptoms of hyperemesis gravidarum include:

  • severe nausea
  • weight loss
  • vomiting
  • dehydration
  • disruption to your electrolyte balance

Hyperemesis gravidarum can be treated with dietary changes, additional rest, and medications like antacids.

Dos and Don’ts of morning sickness

Here are a few tips, lifestyle, and dietary interventions to manage and control morning sickness or to keep it to the minimum 

  • Eat smaller meals but eat more often
  • not lying down right after a meal
  • eating non-spicy easily digested foods like rice, bananas, or cereal
  • avoiding smells that upset your stomach
  • Drink water about 30 minutes before and after meals; do not drink water while eating.
  • Stay hydrated by drinking drinks throughout the day.
  • Snacking on ice chips or popsicles to help stay hydrated
  • Exercise regularly, try yoga and long walks
  • Limit your intake of caffeinated beverages, especially in the afternoon and evening.
  • Good sleep hygiene habits include going to bed at the same time every day, turning off your phone at least an hour before bed, and sleeping in a dark, cool room.

You can also read this article on different foods for morning sickness.

unisom in pregnancy

Unisom in pregnancy

According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG), the combination of Unisom and vitamin B6 is an excellent morning sickness cure, as long as your doctor recommends it.

This medicine combination may act on brain neurotransmitters that cause nausea or disturb other body systems that cause vomiting.

What is Unisom?

Unisom Sleeptabs (Doxylamine) is a sleep medicine used to treat insomnia, a mild cold, and other sleep disturbances. Unisom belongs to the antihistamine class of medicines, which are commonly used to treat allergies. As a result, unisom acts by inhibiting the histamine receptor, which promotes sleep and drowsiness.

unisom in pregnancy

It’s also worth noting that the active ingredient in Unisom SleepGels and certain other Unisom formulations is diphenhydramine (not doxylamine). Check the active components again to ensure you’re getting the appropriate sort.

Dosage and Usage

If vitamin B6 hasn’t worked and you’re ready to try combination therapy, take 10 to 25 mg three times per day, every 6 to 8 hours. Unisom SleepTabs 25 mg should be taken once before going to bed.

Side effects of Unisom

Although it is generally effective, taking Unisom in pregnancy may cause any of the following side effects:

  • Dry mouth
  • Headache
  • Constipation
  • Diarrhea
  • Rash
  • Upset stomach
  • Blurred vision
  • painful urination or difficulty urinating
  • confusion
  • Shortness of breath
  • Blurred vision

If you experience any of these side effects listed above, you should stop taking both Vitamin B6 and Unisom during pregnancy immediately and see a doctor as soon as possible.

unisom in pregnancy

Alternatives to Unisom during Pregnancy

Your doctor may prescribe Diclegis along with other medications such as ondansetron (Zofran), trimethobenzamide (Tebamide), or promethazine (Phenergan antihistamine) (doxylamine with pyridoxine) as an alternative to Vitamin B6 and Unisom.

Diclegis is a  medicine for morning sickness and has been authorized by the Food and Drug Administration(USA). You may find it easier to take just one type of medication for morning sickness relief rather than combining vitamin B6 and Unisom. Diclegis work a lot slower than the combination of Vitamin B6 and Unisom, but the relief is long-lasting.

Conclusion

If you are concerned about the intensity of your morning sickness, consult your doctor or a birthing professional immediately. Unisom, is generally safe to take as needed while pregnant, including as a sleep aid on occasion. 

Studies show that this medication is safe to consume during pregnancy and has no negative effects on the fetus. However, If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or planning to become pregnant, consult your doctor about the risks of combining vitamin B6 and Unisom.

Finally, please remember, Unisom would make you drowsy, so do not use it if you would be driving.

Symptoms of Abdominal Bloating in Early Pregnancy

Pregnancy is a life-changing event that often transforms many parts of a woman’s life, including her body, mind, and even lifestyle. Like with many other transformative experiences, you are likely concerned about the changes going on in your body. One area that many women commonly complain about is bloating. Bloating during pregnancy is to be expected and usually is not a cause for alarm.

This post addresses all your concerns regarding abdominal bloating during early pregnancy. Keep reading to find out more. 

bloating during pregnancy

What is Abdominal Bloating?

The simplest way to describe bloating is to liken it to feeling like an inflated balloon is in your belly. Sometimes, this feeling may be accompanied by a gassy and gurgly feeling. Bloating may be one of the most uncomfortable early pregnancy symptoms that you experience and will most likely last all through your pregnancy. 

What Causes Bloating During Pregnancy?

The main culprit behind abdominal bloating in the early stages of pregnancy is the pregnancy hormone, progesterone. Progesterone is the hormone responsible for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. However, the effects of this hormone also trigger bloating, burping, and passing gas. We’ll explain how.

Progesterone causes the smooth muscles in your body (including the muscles of the gastrointestinal tract) to relax. This can result in the slowing down of digestion, thereby causing you to feel bloated. On the bright side, slower digestion means that there is more time for the nutrients in your food to reach your bloodstream and consequently, reach your baby. 

What Are The Symptoms of Abdominal Bloating?

Chances are that you may have noticed your abdomen feeling fuller than usual in early pregnancy. The following are accompanying signs that confirm that you’re experiencing abdominal bloating:

  • Flatulence
  • Burping
  • Distended abdomen
  • Production of more gas
  • Constipation

All these are telltale signs that what you’re experiencing is abdominal bloating. 

How To Handle Bloating During Pregnancy

The truth is you’ll probably experience some amount of bloating during pregnancy no matter what you do. Although medical treatment is usually not necessary for the treatment of boating, there are tips on how to manage constipation that will consequently minimize bloating. Here are a few helpful tips:

  • Drink plenty water

One way to keep things moving through your digestive system is to stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water. This will help to avoid constipation, a leading cause of gas and bloating. 

  • Eat smaller portions

The more food you eat, the more gas you’ll be pumping out. The best way to prevent your digestive system from getting overloaded is to eat in smaller portions at healthy intervals. This will keep gas pains and constipation in check. 

  • Regular exercise or gentle physical activity

It is good to make regular exercise a priority for general well-being. During pregnancy, gentle exercise and physical activities go a long way in helping your digestive system move smoothly. 

  • Cut down on foods that produce gas

Some foods are known for producing excess gas. While it is not necessary to give these foods up entirely during pregnancy, it is usually a good idea to cut down on their consumption. These foods include beans, cabbage, onions, fried foods, sugary foods, broccoli, and cauliflower. 

  • Try a warm drink

A glass of warm water or tea can do magic in relieving all sorts of pregnancy abdominal woes. When you feel bloated, you can try a glass of chamomile tea or lemon tea for relief.

  • Massage your abdomen

Gently massaging your abdomen can help ease bloating in the early stages of pregnancy.  

When to see a doctor

Bloating during pregnancy is usually to be expected and is not cause for concern. However, in rare cases, it can be a pointer to underlying health conditions. If bloating feels constant and does not get better with home remedies, you should see a healthcare practitioner.

bloating during pregnancy

Also, see a doctor if bloating occurs with any of the following issues:

  • Weight loss
  • Pain in the upper part of the abdomen
  • Fatigue and light-headedness
  • Frequent bouts of nausea and diarrhea

Conclusion

Bloating is a common problem that many women experience during the early stages of pregnancy or even throughout pregnancy. Although it is an uncomfortable symptom, it is usually harmless and is not a cause for concern in many women. High levels of progesterone and other hormonal changes are responsible for bloating during pregnancy. Sometimes, it can also be due to diet and lifestyle habits. 

Generally, dietary and lifestyle adjustments as well as home remedies are enough to relieve the symptoms of abdominal bloating during pregnancy. However, if your symptoms don’t improve, you should see a healthcare provider for additional suggestions in case bloating is a sign of an underlying health condition. 

Acne During Pregnancy | Causes, Remedies & Solutions

For most women, pregnancy comes with a world of changes. From belly button changes to the mom butt issue, and even developing acne during pregnancy. If you’re in these shoes, there’s really no cause for alarm. You are not alone, and just like many women around the world, you’d find answers to the causes, remedies, and solutions to acne during pregnancy in this article.

acne during pregnancy
pregnancy-acne

Don’t stop reading.

What is Pregnancy Acne?

While expecting, the accompanying hormonal fluctuations may lead to skin changes during pregnancy like breakouts or acne. In fact, studies show that at least 5 in 10 women would have acne during pregnancy.

Thankfully, understanding the causes and possible treatment of acne in pregnancy may prevent scarring and reduce discomfort on this journey.

You can also read this article to learn about the causes and treatment of perimenopausal acne.

Causes of Pregnancy Acne

As we mentioned earlier, elevated or fluctuating hormone levels during pregnancy can lead to pregnancy-related acne. In fact, high hormone levels increase natural oil production in a woman’s skin. Although it is really difficult to predict who would or wouldn’t have acne during pregnancy, it may also be related to genetic and environmental factors.

In plain terms, women who experienced acne and skin changes during puberty have a higher chance of having acne during pregnancy. Thankfully, if you don’t get acne in the first trimester, it’s unlikely that you’ll experience unusual breakouts in the second or third trimesters.

Treatment of Pregnancy Acne

Managing acne while pregnant can be difficult.

Women can treat pregnancy acne with medication or natural remedies. Nonetheless, medical treatments often come with significant risks of birth abnormalities associated with numerous prescription and over-the-counter medicines.

acne during pregnancy

Although over-the-counter (OTC) and prescription acne remedies exist, women may have concerns about the possible risks of using these products during pregnancy. In general, you should avoid any drug that even slightly increases the risk that your child will suffer injury.

Medication

According to research, there are numerous medications that can increase the risk of congenital disabilities and pregnancy complications during the period of your pregnancy. Some of these medications include:

  • Hormonal therapy 
  • Isotretinoin 
  • Oral tetracyclines 
  • Topical retinoids

The good news is: The task of treating acne during pregnancy is not impossible.

Acne products containing salicylic acid, benzoyl peroxide, and erythromycin are suitable for acne treatment. Beta hydroxy acids such as salicylic acid aid to treat acne by removing dead skin cells that clog pores. Furthermore, acne-causing bacteria are killed by benzoyl peroxide, which also removes excess oil and dead skin cells from pores.

Home Remedies

Pregnant women can also attempt using natural remedies for their acne conditions. Natural remedies are the safest and most reliable solution because there are minimal or no risks. These natural remedies may be from nutrients in food consumed or by application to the skin.

Here are a few options to try:

Zinc

Zinc is a crucial mineral that promotes cell division and protein production. According to recent research, pregnant women or nursing moms face an increased risk of zinc insufficiency. Therefore, they are advised to consume 11–13 milligrams (mg) of zinc per day.

The health risks of zinc deficiency include: 

On the other hand, higher zinc levels can reduce the severity of acne in pregnancy, according to studies. The results of a study showed that erythromycin and zinc acetate combined as a topical acne therapy is more effective than erythromycin alone in a gel form.

Food items that are rich in zinc include; oysters, meat, beef, pork, poultry, shellfish, beans, nuts, seeds, and yogurt.

Honey

The anti-inflammatory and antibacterial effects of several honey constituents may be used to treat acne. Applying honey directly to acne blemishes can be used as a spot therapy option. They can also combine honey with a few drops of lemon juice or lavender oil to create a face mask.

acne during pregnancy

Vitamin A

Vitamin A contains a group of chemical compounds called retinoids. These retinoids support a wide range of important body functions, including:

  • Immune function
  • Vision
  • Reproduction
  • Communication between cells

Topical retinoids help lessen acne symptoms and stop new acne lesions from developing. They continue to be the primary method of treating acne. However, because some retinoid drugs have the potential to result in congenital defects as earlier discussed, pregnant women should consult with a doctor before using these treatments.

Food sources rich in vitamin A, include; beef, liver, chicken, eggs, fish, vegetables, fruits, and fortified dairy products.

Pregnancy Acne Prevention

The safest course of action is good skin care. Here are some drug-free ways to treat pregnancy acne:

  • Avoid irritants
  • Wash with gentle, oil-free, alcohol-free, and a non-abrasive cleanser
  • Avoid over-cleansing so as not to overstimulate the skin’s oil glands
  • Apply shampoo regularly. If you have oily skin, it’s best to use daily
  • Change bed sheets and pillowcases frequently
  • Do not squeeze blemishes as they can result in infection and scarring
  • Watch what touches your skin because it may contain bacteria

Is Acne a Sign of Pregnancy?

Despite the fact that many women get acne during pregnancy, being pregnant is not always indicated by the presence of acne. Hormonal changes can lead to acne development. During their periods, some women may have fresh breakouts. Health issues that impact hormone levels may also cause acne.

Conclusion

Skin alterations are frequent during pregnancy. While other women might observe their acne clearing up, some women may experience more severe breakouts. Most over-the-counter topical acne medications for pregnant acne like erythromycin are safe to use on women. Retinoids and oral acne medications should be avoided by women who are expecting or nursing. However, consuming meals high in zinc and vitamin A may help lessen acne symptoms. Furthermore, honey is another effective acne therapy option.

Nevertheless, if you are concerned about pregnancy acne, it is best you consult your doctor. You can both weigh the benefits and risks of possible treatment options.

Placenta: What It Is and How It Forms During Pregnancy

During pregnancy, your body undergoes various changes to ensure that your little one gets all the nutrients needed for proper development. To achieve this, your body does an amazing thing – it grows a brand new, but temporary, organ called the placenta.

In this article, you’d learn all you need to know about the placenta; what it is, how it’s formed, its functions, and possible complications.

What is Placenta?

The placenta is a temporary organ that develops during pregnancy. This unique organ supplies oxygen and nutrients to your baby during pregnancy. In addition to this, it also removes waste products and carbon dioxide from your little one’s circulatory system.

placenta

The placenta is called a fetomaternal organ because it has two components:

  • The Fetal Part
  • The Maternal Part

In normal conditions, the placenta attaches to the wall of your uterus (often at the side or on the top) and is connected to your baby through the umbilical cord. However, in placenta previa, the placenta blocks the cervix and obstructs the path that the baby should come out from during vaginal delivery.

When Does the Placenta Form?

The placenta begins to develop in the third week of pregnancy. This involves changes in the wall of the uterus where implantation occurred and the chorionic sac (a bag-like structure that contains the embryo). Furthermore, the blood vessels in the uterus undergo various alterations that also contribute to the formation of this important organ.

When does placenta form

In most cases, this special organ is fully developed by the eighth week of pregnancy when it takes over hormone production, nutrient transport, and gaseous exchange. At this point, you would likely get a positive pregnancy test result due to hCG production from the placenta.

Functions of The Placenta

1. Oxygen Transport

During pregnancy, your little one depends on you for his/her oxygen supply. The truth is, this gaseous exchange is one of the primary functions of the placenta. The large surface area of the placenta allows oxygen-poor blood from the fetus to mix with oxygen-rich blood from the mother. This way, your baby has a steady supply of the right amount of oxygen needed to function and grow.

placenta

2. Nutrient Transport

Another important function of the placenta is nutrient delivery from the mother to the baby. Nutrients absorbed into the blood from the mother’s diet, are delivered to the growing baby through the placenta and umbilical cord. That’s how all of a pregnant mum’s meals get to the baby without them having to take a single bite!

Some of the nutrients transported include:

  • Glucose
  • Water
  • Amino Acids
  • Vitamins

3. Hormonal Function

The placenta secretes important pregnancy hormones that support the baby’s development. Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin, which is the major hormone produced by the placenta, maintains pregnancy and stops menstruation after implantation has occurred. Furthermore, hCG serves as the basis of pregnancy testing.

Pregnancy test strip

In addition to hCG, the placenta secretes other important hormones like:

  • Human Chorionic Somatomammotrophin (hCS): which functions in breast development and improves breast milk supply after childbirth.
  • Progestrone: This really important placental hormone maintains the pregnancy and prevents spontaneous abortion. In addition, progesterone increases uterine secretions thereby promoting nutrient supply to the developing embryo.

4. Waste Removal

The placenta serves as the only route for your baby’s waste removal during pregnancy. Waste products of metabolism and development are passed into the amniotic fluid and to the placenta before it is eventually removed from the mother’s body via urination or defecation.

How Long Does The Placenta Stay?

Although each pregnancy is unique, the placenta usually begins functioning fully by the eighth week of pregnancy and lasts for the entire duration of pregnancy.

What Happens To The Placenta After Birth?

In vaginal delivery, the placenta is also delivered through the birth canal after the baby has been delivered. Medical experts often refer to this process as the third stage of labor.

After childbirth, you would continue to experience mild contractions until the placenta separates from the wall of the uterus and is expelled. To aid this process, your health care provider may administer a drug called oxytocin or gently massage your lower abdomen until the placenta is removed. You might be asked to give a final push to expel the placenta in some cases.

During a C-section, your doctor would remove the placenta from your uterus as a part of the surgical procedure.

After delivery, your doctor would examine it to make sure that there’s no remnant placenta tissue left in your uterus as this may cause postpartum hemorrhage (excessive bleeding after delivery) or uterine infections if left unchecked.

If you want to, you can ask to see the placenta before it is disposed of.

Possible Placental Complications

Placenta Previa

This is an important medical condition that occurs when the placenta blocks the cervix. When this happens, the placenta blocks the birth canal which is the baby’s route during vaginal delivery. Depending on its exact position in the uterus, placenta previa may be marginal, partial, or complete.

Placenta Previa types

Women with placenta previa often experience light to heavy bleeding, accompanied with abdominal cramps or serious back pain.

Although there is no drug to cure placenta previa, this placental complication can be managed by limiting blood loss until the baby can be safely delivered. A Cesarean section would be conducted to deliver the baby and remove the placenta in cases where the bleeding is heavy and incessant.

Placental Abruption

This happens when the placenta peels away from the uterine wall before delivery. Placental abruption can reduce the amount of oxygen getting to your baby during pregnancy, which can lead to poor growth, brain injury, low birth weight, or premature birth.

When it occurs, placental abruption often requires an emergency cesarean delivery (even if the baby is not up to term). If the baby is still preterm and the separation is minimal, close monitoring, bed rest, and medications to help the baby survive outside the uterus are recommended until it is safe enough to deliver the baby.

Placenta Accreta

This happens when the placenta grows too deeply into the uterus. In this instance, it becomes very difficult to separate the placenta from the uterus during delivery. Therefore, this condition can lead to excessive bleeding from the uterus. Sadly, this condition is life-threatening and may require surgical removal of the uterus (hysterectomy) to stop the bleeding.

Other placental complications include:

Symptoms of Placenta Complications

In most cases, women with any of the placental complications mentioned earlier often experience:

  • Vaginal bleeding
  • Abdominal pain
  • Back Pain
  • Severe uterine contractions

If you notice any of these symptoms at any stage of your pregnancy, please contact your doctor immediately.

Risk Factors for Placenta Complications During Pregnancy

Sometimes, a normal and healthy pregnancy may eventually lead to a placenta complication.

However, medical researchers have identified the following as the major risk factors for placenta complications during pregnancy:

  • Increased maternal age (above 35)
  • Genetics
  • High blood pressure
  • Multiple pregnancies
  • Previous C-section
  • Substance (Alcohol or Illicit Drug) use
  • Abdominal trauma

Thankfully, attending regular antenatal clinics would provide your doctor with all the info he/she needs to identify these risk factors if they exist and monitor you closely

How to Prevent Placenta Complications

Here’s the good news:

You can reduce the possibility of these complications during pregnancy by:

  • Avoiding alcohol or illicit drugs
  • Checking your blood pressure regularly
  • Following a healthy pregnancy diet
  • Attending regular antenatal clinics
  • Reporting any strange symptoms or feeling to your healthcare provider

Conclusion

In conclusion, it is important to remember that the placenta is an important and unique organ of pregnancy. It ensures efficient oxygen and nutrient supply to your baby during pregnancy. However, various medical conditions could affect it in the course of pregnancy.

If you notice any of the symptoms of placenta complications mentioned in this article, please contact your doctor immediately. You can read more on Eating Placenta here and positive signs after embryo transfer

We are always here for you.

References
  • How your fetus grows during pregnancy. (2020).
    acog.org/patient-resources/faqs/pregnancy/how-your-fetus-grows-during-pregnancy
  • Perlman N. (2019). Retained placenta after vaginal delivery: Risk factors and management. DOI: 
    10.2147/IJWH.S218933
  • Benirschke K, Kaufmann P: Pathology of the Human Placenta, ed 4, New York, 2000, Springer-Verlag.
  • Cross JC: Formation of the placenta and extraembryonic membranes, Ann N Y Acad Sci 857:23, 1998.
  • Kazandi M: Conservative and surgical treatment of abnormal placenta­tion: report of five cases and review of the literature, Clin Exp Obstet Gynecol 37:310, 2010.
  • Cunningham FG, Leveno KJ, Bloom SL, et al: Williams’ Obstetrics, ed 23, New York, 2009, McGraw-Hill.