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Intrauterine Pregnancy: Process, Confirmation and Complications

February 22, 2023 by Adeola Adebo

An intrauterine pregnancy (IUP), or uterine pregnancy, occurs when a fertilized egg implants and begins to develop within the uterus, where it should be. This is really important because pregnancy can only develop and progress to full term in the uterus.

In this article, you’ll learn all there is to know about intrauterine pregnancy; the process, confirmation, and possible complications.

Keep reading.

Intrauterine Prengancy

An intrauterine pregnancy discovered via ultrasound indicates that the pregnancy is developing in the proper location.

Early pregnancy symptoms, such as abdominal or pelvic pain and vaginal bleeding, should be investigated to determine the location of the pregnancy and rule out any complications. Ectopic pregnancies develop elsewhere in the female reproductive tract (cervix, ovary, fallopian tubes) and are not viable, meaning they will not result in the birth of a child.

You can also read this post to learn more about ectopic pregnancy.

Intrauterine pregnancy is the desired conception outcome for most couples wishing to have a child. However, it is vital to understand the various stages of intrauterine pregnancy and its potential risks.

Process of intrauterine pregnacy

Intrauterine pregnancy begins when the ovary releases a mature egg during ovulation and this egg travels through the fallopian tube toward the uterus. If the egg is fertilized by a sperm cell during this journey, it forms a zygote, which then travels down the fallopian tube and implants in the lining of the uterus.

This implantation usually occurs around 6-10 days after fertilization.

The embryo’s development characterizes the early stages of intrauterine pregnancy. The first two weeks after implantation are known as the germinal stage, during which the zygote divides and forms a ball of cells known as a blastocyst. The blastocyst then implants more deeply into the uterine lining, forming the placenta and embryonic tissues.

At around five weeks of gestation, the embryo develops a heartbeat and takes on a recognizable human form. This is also when the placenta starts to produce hormones that support the pregnancy, such as human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG). Over the next few weeks, the embryo develops various organ systems, including the central nervous, heart, lungs, and digestive systems.

Intrauterine pregnancy is typically monitored through regular prenatal care, which includes regular check-ups with an obstetrician or midwife and various diagnostic tests to assess the health of the mother and the developing fetus. One of the most common tests used to monitor intrauterine pregnancy is an ultrasound, which uses sound waves to create images of the developing fetus and can detect any potential abnormalities.

How to confirm an Intrauterine pregnancy

Using specific tests, it is possible to confirm an intrauterine pregnancy. One of the most common and widely used tests for confirming an intrauterine pregnancy is ultrasound. The following tests can confirm an intrauterine pregnancy:

Fetal Heart Activity

Examining fetal heart activity is another way to confirm an intrauterine pregnancy. After 6 weeks of pregnancy, fetal heart activity is visible. The heart rate of a fetus increases every week, and the average heart rate ranges from 100 to 120 beats per minute.

A visible Yolk Sac

With a transvaginal ultrasound, it is possible to identify a visible yolk sac at about the 5th week of gestation. This yolk sac provides nutritional support to the developing embryo until the placenta forms.

Complications that can occur in intrauterine pregnancies

While intrauterine pregnancies are generally safe and normal, specific risks and complications can arise.

Some of these complications include:

1. Miscarriage

This is one of the most common complications of intrauterine pregnancy. A miscarriage occurs when the developing fetus stops growing or dies before the 20th week of gestation.

Although miscarriages often result from chromosomal abnormalities, they may also arise due to maternal health conditions such as diabetes, thyroid disorders, or infections.

2. Preterm Labor

This is another potential complication of intrauterine pregnancy, which occurs when the mother enters labor before the 37th week of pregnancy. Preterm labor can also increase the risk of complications for the developing fetus. Some of the fetal complications of preterm labor include respiratory distress syndrome and neurological problems.

3. Intrauterine Growth Restriction (IUGR)

Intrauterine growth restriction (IUGR) is a condition where the developing fetus is smaller than expected for its gestational age. IUGR can occur for various reasons, including maternal health problems, placental problems, and genetic abnormalities. IUGR can increase the risk of complications for the developing fetus, including respiratory distress syndrome and neurological problems.

4. Preeclampsia

Preeclampsia is a potentially life-threatening complication of intrauterine pregnancy that occurs when the mother develops high blood pressure and protein in her urine after the 20th week.

Causes of complication during intrauterine pregnancy

Several factors can increase the likelihood of complications during intrauterine pregnancy. These include advanced maternal age, pre-existing health conditions such as hypertension or diabetes, and lifestyle factors such as smoking or drug use.

To minimize the risks of intrauterine pregnancy, women need to receive regular prenatal care and make lifestyle changes such as quitting smoking and avoiding alcohol and illicit drugs. Prenatal vitamins, a healthy diet, and regular exercise can also help promote a healthy pregnancy.

The Takeaway

In cases where complications do arise, there are various treatments and interventions that can be used to improve outcomes. For example, women who are at high risk of preterm labor may be prescribed medications such as progesterone to help prevent early delivery.

In cases where the developing fetus has a medical condition or abnormality, doctors may recommend additional testing or procedures such as amniocentesis or fetal surgery.

Finally, it always helps to remember that your doctors and healthcare professionals are always available to help you through every step of this journey.

You are not alone.

Colposcopy in Pregnancy: How to go about it

February 7, 2023 by Adeola Adebo

A colposcopy in pregnancy is conducted to take a closer look at your cervix. Usually, a colposcopy becomes necessary if the results of a cervical screening show changes in your cells resulting from certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). In some cases, these changed cells can turn into cervical cancer cells.

Although a lot of detail goes into planning and performing a colposcopy in pregnancy, it is usually a safe and effective procedure. As a result, it is necessary to always follow appropriate guidelines.

This article contains all you need to know about colposcopy in pregnancy; when it is necessary, how to perform it, and the factors involved.

Don’t stop reading.

When to Perform Colposcopy During Pregnancy

Colposcopy is safe during pregnancy and is not associated with adverse surgical or obstetric outcomes. The main purpose of performing a colposcopy during pregnancy is to rule out the presence of cancer cells. Usually, a colposcopy is necessary for women with an immediate risk of cervical intraepithelial neoplasia.

Also, a colposcopy helps to find out the cause of other symptoms, such as unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge.

When performing a colposcopy on a pregnant woman, it is important to ensure that nothing is inserted deep into the endocervical canal as this could disrupt the pregnancy.

How to Prepare for a Colposcopy

For the 24 hours before going for your colposcopy, you should take note of the following:

Do not have penetrative vaginal sex
Do not use any products that you place inside your vagina like vaginal creams or tampons.
Bring along a panty liner or sanitary towel to your appointment because of the possibility of minor bleeding after the procedure.

Performing a Colposcopy

During a colposcopy, a smooth tube-shaped tool called a speculum is gently inserted into your vagina to open it and a microscope is then used to observe your cervix in greater detail. The doctor will put liquids on your cervix to help them see any abnormal cervical cells. Sometimes, a doctor may want to perform a biopsy to diagnose abnormal tissue if found. A biopsy is the removal of a small tissue sample usually around the size of a pinhead.

Factors Affecting Colposcopy

Colposcopy during pregnancy presents challenges to accurate diagnosis since pregnancy-related changes to the cervix may present similarly to certain cancers. This is why it is preferred that an experienced colposcopist carries out this procedure.

Furthermore, the process of a colposcopy during pregnancy may depend on the following factors:

Hormonal changes

Hormonal changes during pregnancy lead to several physiological changes. This includes physiological changes to the cervix. A doctor will see fewer changes to the cervix during the 1st trimester but will expect significant changes starting from the 2nd trimester as the baby begins to increase in size and press on the cervix.

Lax vaginal walls

Usually, the walls of the vagina often soften and become less elastic. This can impair the doctor’s ability to visualize the cervix. During pregnancy, the cervix increases up to 10 times in size, and this further compounds the visualization problem. However, using a vaginal retractor together with the speculum can resolve this issue easily.

Condoms

Condoms can simplify colposcopy in pregnancy via an innovative method that removes the vaginal retractor. The doctor places a condom over the speculum before insertion and cuts off the tip of the condom so that it forms a sheath around the speculum.

This will hold the lax walls of the vagina in place with minimal invasion to the patient and clear visualization of the cervix.

Treatment Options for Positive Results

If the doctor finds abnormal cells in your cervix, they may recommend removing them to reduce the risk of cervical cancer. However, it is usually sufficient to just monitor the cells during pregnancy for re-evaluation.

A treatment plan will be scheduled at least 6 weeks postpartum.

Conclusion

Colposcopy is generally safe during pregnancy, although colposcopic evaluations are preferred during the first half of pregnancy. When performed by experienced colposcopists or gynecologists, it is a reliable diagnostic tool for both pregnant and non-pregnant individuals.

Managing Threatened Miscarriage

January 30, 2023 by Adeola Adebo

A threatened miscarriage is also referred to as a threatened abortion or a threatened spontaneous abortion. Abortion is sometimes used as a medical term for a miscarriage. Abortion occurs when a pregnancy ends before the embryo is ready to survive on its own. It could be a threatened miscarriage, an early pregnancy loss, or a spontaneous abortion.

In this post, you will learn all there is to know about threatened miscarriage; the causes, possible complications, symptoms, and diagnosis.

Let’s Get Started!

What Is Threatened Miscarriage?

The World Health Organization (WHO) defines threatened abortion as a pregnancy-related bloody vaginal discharge or frank bleeding during the first half of pregnancy without cervical dilatation.

During the first trimester of pregnancy, some pregnant women experience vaginal bleeding. This blood loss can occur with or without abdominal cramping. A threatened abortion occurs when the symptoms show that a miscarriage is likely to happen in the future.

Causes of threatened miscarriage

Some of the possible causes of threatened miscarriage are:

An infection or irritation that may occur following sex.
Miscarriage, minor falls, injuries, or stress during the first trimester of pregnancy.
Ectopic pregnancy; is a condition that arises when an embryo implants outside of the uterus.
Molar pregnancy; is a rare uterine growth.

Other factors that can raise your chances of miscarriage include:

Obesity
Thyroid problems
High blood pressure
Diabetes

Symptoms of Threatened Miscarriage

The main symptom is vaginal bleeding in the first 20 weeks of pregnancy. It is also important to note that the intensity of this bleeding can vary from light to severe. Furthermore, some people also experience stomach cramps or lower back pain.

Women who have a regular miscarriage frequently experience dull or sharp pain in the abdomen and lower back. They may also pass vaginal tissue containing clot-like material.

If you’re pregnant and experiencing these symptoms or bleeding at any point during pregnancy, contact your doctor or obstetrician immediately.

Possible complications include:

Anemia
Infection
Miscarriage

Furthermore, the doctor will want to make sure the symptoms or complications aren’t caused by an ectopic pregnancy, which is a potentially lethal complication. To achieve this, it is important to make a proper diagnosis.

Diagnosis of Threatened Miscarriage

To properly diagnose a threatened miscarriage, the doctor will inquire about your symptoms and medical history. Furthermore, he or she will have to perform a physical examination.

Some of the tests involved include:

Fetal heart monitoring via ultrasound
Tests on the blood; The following blood tests are done:
Beta HCG (quantitative) test (pregnancy test) performed over a period of days or weeks to confirm the continuation of the pregnancy
A complete blood count (CBC) is performed to determine the presence of anemia.
Progesterone concentration
A white blood cell count (WBC) with a differential is done to rule out infection.

Treatment of Threatened Miscarriage

Miscarriages are sometimes unavoidable. In some cases, your doctor will recommend certain measures to reduce your chances of miscarriage.

Some of these preventive measures include:

Treating conditions that increase the risk of pregnancy complications, such as gestational diabetes or hypothyroidism.
Your doctor may also prescribe a progesterone injection to boost your hormone levels.
If you have Rh-negative blood and your developing fetus has Rh-positive blood, your doctor will also give you Rh immunoglobulin, also known as immune globulin. This prevents your body from producing antibodies against the blood of your child.

Prevention of Threatened Miscarriage:

Although it is really difficult to prevent miscarriage during pregnancy, you can increase your chances of having a healthy pregnancy by:

Attending your antenatal clinics regularly
Avoiding alcohol
Regulating your caffeine consumption
Taking prescribed prenatal vitamins
Reporting any viral or bacterial infections during pregnancy to your doctor immediately

Long-term prospects

Thankfully, many women who experience threatened miscarriages go on to have healthy children. If your cervix hasn’t already dilated and the fetus is still securely attached to the uterine wall, this is more likely. If your hormone levels are abnormal, hormone therapy can often help you carry the baby to term.

Nonetheless, a threatened abortion can be a very stressful experience for some people, leading to anxiety and depression. If you are experiencing symptoms of either condition following a threatened abortion or miscarriage, you should consult your doctor. They can assist you in obtaining the necessary treatment.

In Conclusion,

It helps to remember that most miscarriages are often unavoidable. However, if you have two or more miscarriages in a row, please contact your doctor to identify and treat the underlying cause. In addition, studies show that women with proper prenatal care often have better pregnancy outcomes and fewer cases of threatened miscarriage.

Baby Measurement | What You Should Know

November 15, 2022 by Adeola Adebo

Regular visits to your doctor have become a normal part of your routine since you became pregnant. An ultrasound scan may even be performed on occasion. This helps to monitor your baby’s health while still in your womb. In addition, an ultrasound can be used to determine your baby’s measurement before he or she arrives in your arms.

Furthermore, your antenatal clinics will also include tests that reveal your hormone levels, blood pressure readings, and sugar levels during pregnancy.

In this article, you will learn some of the things you should expect during antenatal visits, what baby measurement means; how to do it, what it means if your baby is measuring ahead, the possible risk factors, and some takeaways.

What to expect during antenatal visits

Most pregnant women see their doctor at least once a month during pregnancy. However, some moms-to-be end up seeing their doctor more than once a month especially when the baby is approaching term or because of an underlying disease that may impact the health of the baby.

During these visits, your doctor will perform a brief physical examination on you.

With a nurse’s help, your doctor will determine your height, weight, and blood pressure. Furthermore, you will be asked some questions to determine your background health and family history. The doctor will also ask about your baby’s movements in the womb, your sleep patterns, and prenatal vitamin use.

For the physical part of the examination, your doctor will check:

Your fundal height (or belly size)
Your baby’s heartbeat
Weight gain
Swelling, especially in the foot.

What does baby measurement mean?

This is a means to approximate your baby’s size while still in the womb.

There is usually a relationship between your fundal height and the timeline of your pregnancy. For instance, for a 20 week-pregnancy, your fundal height should be about 20 ± 3 cm.

However, it is important to note that this measurement is not always accurate due to factors like:

Your baby size
Multiple pregnancies
Genetic variances

What does it mean if your baby is measuring ahead?

When your baby is measuring ahead or big, it means that your baby’s measurement values seem to be higher than their expected gestational size for the week of pregnancy you are in. This does not always mean there’s something wrong with your baby or that you will have problems with delivery.

For this, you do not have to worry.

How to measure your fundal height

Before you try to measure your fundal height at home, make sure you know where your pubic bone is and how to locate the top of your uterus. You can ask your doctor or midwife to show you how to locate them.

Once you know the location, you can follow the following steps to measure your fundal height:

Make sure that your bladder is empty: A full bladder has the potential to increase your fundal height measurement by a few centimeters. Also, when you’re at the hospital for follow-up, make sure your bladder is empty too before your doctor measures your fundal height.
Lie down on your back with your legs in front of you.
Use a centimeter-graded tape measure: Then place the zero mark at the top of your uterus and move down vertically until you reach the top of your pubic bone. Whatever measurement you get is your fundal height.

Why your baby is measuring ahead

There are a lot of reasons your baby may be measuring ahead.

One of them is that your baby will come out big or you’re carrying more than one baby. This should not be a reason for fear or worry, especially as to if you’ll be able to have a normal vaginal delivery or a C-section.

Your doctor or midwife can guide you through this and help you make the best decision.

Another reason your baby may be measuring ahead is excess amniotic fluid production. As you’d learn in this post, amniotic fluid surrounds your baby and offers some sort of protection during pregnancy. Excess amniotic fluid production leads to a condition called polyhydramnios.

You may also have sizeable fundal measurements because you have fibroids of significant size. Large fibroids can force your womb to the front, causing your baby to measure ahead. You can also read this article to know if fibroids can affect your chances of getting pregnant.

Risk factors

Some factors can put you at risk of measuring ahead. Thankfully, some of these factors can be controlled.

These include:

Previous history of measuring ahead: If you have given birth to a large baby before, you are at an increased risk of having another large baby so most likely, you’ll measure ahead again.
Obesity and diabetes: If your diabetes is not well controlled, it is possible that your baby will have larger shoulders and fat compared to a baby whose mother is not diabetic.
Having a boy: Male babies sometimes weigh more than females. If you’re having a male child, there’s a high chance that he would measure ahead.
Overdue pregnancy: If you are past your due date, your baby is at an increased risk to measure ahead.

Takeaway

Most times, you may not be able to prevent measuring ahead, however, you can take control and have a healthy pregnancy irrespective of your baby’s size.

You can do this by:

Scheduling a preconstruction appointment with your doctor before conception. This way, the doctor will provide guidance on what you should and should not do during pregnancy.
Monitor your weight during pregnancy: Gaining a healthy amount of weight during pregnancy supports your baby’s growth and development, especially if you have a normal weight before pregnancy.
Follow your doctor’s advice and recommendations for physical activities. This will ensure you don’t add too much weight during pregnancy.

You can also read the post on pregnancy-safe exercise options to try.

Conclusion

Measuring ahead is not something you should be scared of. Ensure you go for your routine check-up and follow your doctor’s advice.

All you have to do is stay healthy and anticipate the arrival of your little one.

Can You Feed Your Baby In a Car Seat? – What You Need To Know

November 8, 2022 by Adeola Adebo

It is good that you have access to a car for easy mobility, especially now that your baby is on the way or has already arrived. One of the things access to a car also gives you is privacy. You can do what you want when you want it. But does this include feeding your baby in a car seat?

Sometimes, it may seem like an excellent idea for you to feed your baby in the car seat while driving. However, it is important to ask: Is this a really safe practice?

In this article, we will consider how safe it is for you to feed your baby in a car seat, how and what to feed your baby, and some extra tips on feeding your baby in the car seat.

Furthermore, here’s a link to find the best baby car seat options available worldwide.

Can you feed your baby in a car?

It is expected that you will need to feed your baby in a car seat, but you have to find a safe spot and park your car before you start feeding. This way, you’d get to monitor your baby’s feeding properly while driving.

Even though you can feed your baby in the car seat, you should know that it is not recommended by pediatricians. Nonetheless, everyone agrees that if it is done with adequate care, you can feed your baby safely in the car seat.

How to feed your baby in a car seat

If your journey will be long and feeding your baby becomes inevitable, you should add some extra time to your journey. This will help you stop and feed your baby properly. If you are expelling breast milk for your baby, you can give your baby a bottle of breast milk. On the other hand, you can also prepare a bottle of baby formula ahead of time or buy a ready-made formula.

Read this post to learn how to prepare and store baby formula.

While breastfeeding your baby in the car seat, make sure you buckle your baby in a safe seat. You should never leave your baby unattended in a car seat, no matter how fast the errand you want to run may be. Also, be sure to follow the instructions with the car seat for proper setup.

Normalize using a bottle holder or strap to help keep the bottle in place while feeding your baby in a car seat. You should also avoid giving your baby solid food items that can cause choking. While breastfeeding in public, make sure you use a cloth to cover your breast to limit exposure

Don’t try to multitask while your baby is feeding in the car seat. Always give your baby optimum attention while feeding.

You should not allow your infants or newborns to drink in a bottle in a car seat while the car is moving. This is because they cannot hold the bottle themselves; neither can they remove it if they have too much milk in their mouth. The excess milk or formula can cause choking and your baby will not be able to prevent it.

In addition, most babies are used to feeding in a calm and still environment, therefore, car movements while feeding will be new to them. This can lead to extra gas inflow, and they may not be old enough to control it.

Feeding your baby in a car seat while your partner or someone else is driving is preferable. If you really have to feed your baby in a car, make sure someone else is driving. This helps to monitor your baby’s feeding without distractions.

What to feed your baby in a car seat

There are a number of foods you can give your baby in a car seat. Make sure your child is able to chew their food properly and also able to grasp things before they can travel in a car seat.

Some of the foods you can give your baby include:

Fruits or vegetables. This should have been cut up into small pieces.
Finger foods like crackers, cheerios, oatmeal, dry cereals, etc.

Extra tips

Avoid giving your child hard candies or whole grapes to avoid choking.
Don’t leave your child to bottle-feed alone in a car seat. This helps to prevent choking and also reduces messes in the car seat.
You can use a blanket, towel, or bib to prevent the car seat from food or drink spills.
Ensure that your child is safely and properly buckled into the car seat before you start to drive.
If you would be spending a very long time on the road, it is good and advisable to take regular breaks so that you and your child can relax, stretch and also get some fresh air.
Avoid whole grapes and cherry tomatoes. It prevents choking hazards.
If you are bottle-feeding, make sure your baby’s head is higher than the stomach and the bottle is filled with formula and not air.
Don’t give your child carbonated drinks or food items with caffeine in them.
Avoid giving your baby hot foods while driving.
Try as much as possible to give your baby healthy foods and not just junk.
Take caution when giving your child soft or sticky foods like candies and ice cream.
Some foods like chips and salty snacks can cause dehydration. You should give your child water to drink after eating these snacks.
Nuts like peanuts and cashew nuts can cause allergic reactions. If you are not sure if your baby is allergic to them or not, don’t give them at all.
You should pack some snacks and drinks for yourself too; you don’t want to be famished while feeding your child.

Conclusion

Feeding your baby in a car seat may be inevitable.

Try as much as possible to feed your baby when you are not in motion. When this is not possible, let someone else have the driver’s seat. Also, avoid choking your baby by all means. Avoid foods that can cause choking and don’t use methods of feeding that predispose your baby to choking.

You and your little one are going to be just fine, Mama!

Can Fibroids Affect Your Chances Of Getting Pregnant? | All You Need To Know

October 7, 2022 by Adeola Adebo

About 8 in every 10 women would have had a fibroid before the age of 50. This fact is according to a detailed study conducted in 2020 on the causes and distribution of fibroids. These fibroids are noncancerous, or benign, tumors that develop from uterine muscles and other tissues in the body. Now, the question is: Can fibroids cause infertility and affect your chances of getting pregnant?

In this post, you’ll learn what fibroids are, the various types, their relationship with infertility, and how it affects your chances of getting pregnant.

First, What Are Fibroids?

As we discovered earlier, fibroids are common growths or tumors which develop in the uterus from uterine muscles and other tissues. In most cases, these abnormal growths are generally painless, harmless, and rarely lead to uterine cancer.

These uterine fibroids vary in size, number, and location. Interestingly, a woman may have a single fibroid or multiple ones in a lifetime. As a result, fibroids can change both the size and shape of the uterus. These variations also serve as the basis for the classification of fibroids into various types.

Types of Fibroids

Fibroids are classified into various types depending on their location. Based on this factor, there are three main types of fibroids:

Subserosal: These fibroids grow on the external wall of the uterus and may continue to grow outwards as they increase in size.
Intramural: These fibroids develop inside the uterine wall. As they expand, intramural fibroids also cause the uterus to become larger than normal.
Submucosal: Submucosal fibroids are located in the inner lining of the uterus and may extend into the uterine cavity as they grow larger. This type of fibroid has a relationship with infertility.

In addition to these, it is also possible to classify uterine fibroids into a fourth, and less common, type:

Pedunculated: These fibroids attach to the uterine wall with a stem-like growth referred to as a peduncle. The unique feature of this type of fibroid is the presence of this stem or peduncle.

Although fibroids are generally harmless and painless for most people, the type and size of a fibroid often determine the symptoms it presents with.

In the next part of this article, you will discover the major signs and symptoms of fibroids.

Signs and Symptoms of Fibroids

It is possible to have fibroids and remain completely unaware of them.

This is because these growths, although abnormal, are generally harmless and do not necessarily cause any obvious symptoms. In addition, the symptoms associated with fibroids are dependent on the location, size, and the number of growths.

However, women with uterine fibroids may experience one or some of the following:

Heavy menstrual flow
Irregular and over-extended periods
Pelvic pain
Frequent urination
Lower back pain
Constipation

Do Fibroids Cause Infertility?

If you pay close attention to the signs and symptoms of fibroids mentioned earlier, you’d realize that there is no mention of infertility. This is because only 1% – 3% of all infertility cases are caused by the presence of fibroids.

In fact, most women with uterine fibroids will not be infertile.

Furthermore, data retrieved from the American Society for Reproductive Medicine shows that less than 10% of women trying to conceive actually have fibroids.

Nevertheless, fibroids can affect your chances of getting pregnant in various ways, depending on the location, size, and type. This is because certain fibroids may be located in positions that block the fallopian tube or prevent implantation (pregnancy) by altering the shape of the uterus. As a result, large fibroids (usually above 4cm) are often associated with lower conception and pregnancy rates.

Fibroids only affect pregnancy and cause infertility if:

The fibroids block the uterine tubes
There are major changes in the shape of the cervix
The uterine fibroids prevent the movement of sperm into the uterus.
It causes the uterine lining loses a significant amount of its thickness.
The fibroids reduce the blood flow getting to the uterine cavity.

Furthermore, fibroids have no effect on ovulation. However, they may make it more difficult for your uterus to support conception and see a pregnancy to term. Therefore, women with fibroids who are trying to conceive are advised to monitor the growth closely and work with their doctors to develop an effective treatment plan.

Other Causes of Infertility

As we mentioned earlier, uterine fibroids alone rarely affect pregnancy. That is, there’s only a very slim chance of uterine fibroids being a standalone cause of infertility.

Nonetheless, women with uterine fibroids may be affected by other factors that largely cause infertility. Some of these other causes of infertility include:

Anovulation or failure to ovulate
Endometriosis
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)
Sexually Transmitted Infections
Autoimmune diseases, like rheumatoid arthritis
Uterine abnormalities, like damaged fallopian tubes
Unknown factors

Treating Fibroids and Infertility

Although most people believe that removing or treating fibroids would improve their chances of getting pregnant, this is not always the case.

The fact is: women with uterine fibroids can still become pregnant without treatment.

If you’ve been diagnosed with uterine fibroids and you are trying to conceive, the first step is to book an appointment with your gynecologist for a proper fertility check to determine the main cause of infertility and determine the best treatment plan for you.

If the doctors determine that fibroids are the main cause of infertility, the next step would be treatment or removal. Treatment options for uterine fibroids include:

Hormonal medications that work to shrink the fibroids
Surgical procedures that serve to completely remove the growths.

Summary

In conclusion, it helps to remember that fibroids are common and in most cases, they do not cause infertility or affect your ability to get pregnant. However, if you have large, many, or submucosal fibroids, they may negatively influence fertility.

If you’re experiencing any of the symptoms mentioned above, please consult your doctor for a proper examination and diagnosis. With the right treatment plan and proper medical care, you’re going to get all you desire.

You Don’t Have to Worry.

References

Giuliani E, As-Sanie S, Marsh EE. Epidemiology and management of uterine fibroids. Int J Gynaecol Obstet. 2020;149(1):3-9. doi:10.1002/ijgo.13102
American Society for Reproductive Medicine. Fibroids and fertility.

Best Blood Group Compatibility for Marriage and Pregnancy

September 22, 2022 by Adeola Adebo

Blood group compatibility is really important in marriage and pregnancy. As a result, it is essential to understand when and how your partner’s blood type can affect you.

A blood type compatibility chart for marriage is useful for couples since it explains how your blood type may impact your spouse’s blood type and that of your children. It can assist in ensuring that you don’t experience problems with blood donation and pregnancy, which could have an impact on your marriage. Furthermore, it helps to determine if you and your partner have compatible blood types.

Blood Group Compatibility for Marriage and Pregnancy

This article covers all you need to know about blood group types and blood group compatibility for marriage.

Blood Group System

Depending on which antigens and antibodies are present or absent, there are many blood group types. It is based on whether or not your red blood cells have antigens A or B on their surface. A molecule known as an antigen is one that causes an immunological reaction. That is, immune cells produce specific antibodies against specific antigens.

There are four main blood groups:

Blood Group A: People with this blood group have A antigens on their red blood cells and anti-B antibodies on their plasma.
Blood Group B: Individuals with blood group B have B antigens on their red blood cells and anti-A antibodies on their plasma.
Blood Group AB: Individuals with this blood group have both A and B antigens on their red blood cells and have no antibodies on their plasma.
Blood Group O: people with blood group O have no antigens on their red blood cells but have both anti-A and anti-B antibodies on their plasma.

A key fact to note is that you inherit your blood type. Therefore, it is present at birth and remains constant throughout your life.

How does Blood Compatibility affect Pregnancy?

Couples should only be concerned with blood type compatibility if there is a pregnancy and both partners are the biological parents.

The RH factor is responsible for that.

Rh factor is a hereditary protein, thus your parents will determine whether you are Rh positive (+) or Rh negative (-). Interestingly, Rh-positive is the most typical and common type. Rh status, whether positive or negative, normally has no effect on health, but it could have an impact on a pregnancy.

Rh Factor and Pregnancy

If the biological mother is Rh- and the child is Rh+, the Rh factor may be a problem. An immunological reaction caused by blood cells from a Rh+ infant entering the bloodstream of its Rh- mother. Antibodies produced by the mother’s body could target the baby’s Rh+ red blood cells.

Your doctor will advise a blood type and Rh factor check during your initial prenatal appointment. Later in your pregnancy, if you are Rh-, the doctor will perform another blood test to see whether you have developed antibodies against the Rh factor, which would suggest your child is Rh+. Your pregnancy will be monitored closely for any problems related to Rh incompatibility and may require further care if your doctor discovers a potential for it.

A small quantity of your blood and your baby’s blood may come into contact during delivery, despite the fact that this rarely happens while you are pregnant. If this occurs and there is Rh incompatibility, your body may develop Rh antibodies against the Rh factor. An Rh+ infant won’t experience any issues from these antibodies throughout the first pregnancy. However, they might become problematic if you conceive again and this time your baby is Rh+.

These maternal antibodies can harm the baby’s red blood cells if there was an Rh incompatibility during the first pregnancy and there is an Rh incompatibility during subsequent pregnancies. Your infant may require a red blood cell transfusion if this happens.

Treatment of Rh incompatibility

Your doctor will probably advise Rh immune globulin (RhoGAM) in your seventh month of pregnancy if Rh incompatibility has been identified, and again within 72 hours of delivery if your baby’s blood type is determined to be Rh positive. Rh immune globulin contains Rh IgG antibodies. Therefore, your body won’t make its own Rh antibodies in response to your baby’s Rh-positive cells as it would to other objects.

Blood Transfusions between Partners

If you or your partner require a blood transfusion, knowing your blood types are compatible could be helpful. Blood cannot be donated/transfused between two people with incompatible blood types. A transfusion of the wrong type of blood product can result in a possibly fatal adverse reaction.

For most couples, being able to provide needed blood for a spouse with a medical condition might not be a deal breaker. However, it could be a great advantage in an emergency.

Blood group compatibility is as follows:

Type AB+ is a universal recipient and can receive a transfusion from all blood types.
Type O- is referred to as a universal donor and can donate red blood cells to all blood types.
Type A blood can receive a transfusion from type A and type O red blood cells.
Type B blood can receive a transfusion from type B and type O red blood cells.

Rh+ or Rh- blood can be given to those who are Rh+, but if you are Rh-, you can only receive Rh- blood.

Make sure you and your future spouse have compatible blood types if you want to be able to donate blood to them.

Summary

Only the potential Rh factor incompatibility during pregnancy affects blood group compatibility for marriage. Additionally, that is only applicable to pregnancies in which both partners are biological parents.

Potential issues with Rh incompatibility can be quickly discovered, monitored, and successfully treated. Rh factor compatibility shouldn’t interfere with your capacity to build a successful marriage and have healthy children.

If you don’t know your blood type or your spouse’s blood type, you should go for a blood typing test. While blood type doesn’t stop many couples from getting married, it will help to know the blood group you belong to as it might help when you need to give your partner blood transfusions.

Why Do Baby Twitch In Their Sleep – All You Need To Know

September 15, 2022 by Adeola Adebo

A sleeping baby is usually peaceful and calm. You get to appreciate more of your baby’s beauty when you watch them sleep. Some babies are even called “sleeping beauties.” As a new parent, you will be watching for your baby’s activities. You want to know when they sleep, how long they sleep, and why newborns twitch in their sleep.

When you watch your baby sleep, you will see that they are so calm and relaxed; undisturbed by the events in their immediate surroundings. Apart from the calmness you noticed, you might have also noticed some movements in your baby when they sleep. You are likely reading this article because you are concerned about the things you see when your little one is asleep.

Don’t worry, we got you covered.

In this article, you will learn all there is to know about babies twitching in their sleep. You will know what it means for your baby to twitch while sleeping; what causes it, the abnormal twitches you should watch out for, and when to call for help.

What is sleep twitching?

Twitching is an involuntary contraction of the muscles. It is usually brief. In fact, most muscle twitches go unnoticed. Sleep twitch is a sudden but brief involuntary and arrhythmic muscle contraction that occurs when the baby is beginning to fall asleep. This may cause the baby to suddenly wake up for a moment.

Researchers often refer to sleep twitching as sleep myoclonus. This twitching can affect a muscle or a group of muscles. Another form of twitching or myoclonus is hiccups. In hiccups, the affected muscle is the diaphragm.

It has also been found that this twitching during sleep is common in children who are developing good sensorimotor skills. Most of the time, when your baby twitches, it is more of a positive signal than a negative one.

What causes newborns to twitch during their sleep?

If you have been observing your baby well, you will notice that they sleep a lot. I mean a whole lot! On average, babies spend about 14 to 17 hours of their entire 24 hours sleeping. It is during these hours of sleep that you would have noticed their muscles twitch.

Over time, some parents have assumed these twitches as a sign that their baby is having a good dream. This is possible, especially when the twitch is around the mouth or lips, and results in a smile.

Muscle twitch occurs when your baby is just starting to sleep. It may be caused by some external factors such as noise, light intensity, or movements around them. As soon as they are deeply asleep, these twitches may stop.

Twitching can be a sign of healthy development of brain circuits. This means that the communication path in the brain responsible for these movements is developing well. Muscle twitches can occur in any part of the body, including the eyes, eyelids, cheeks, mouth, head, fingers, arms, toes, and legs.

Research has also shown that there may be a link between the part of the body that is twitching and the next motor skill your baby is developing. For instance, there may be more twitching in the wrist and fingers when your baby is learning to reach for things. Similarly, twitching in the neck region may be prevalent when your baby is learning to support their head while they are awake.

When to worry about twitching in sleep:

Not all twitches are a sign of good sensorimotor development. It is good to know when you should be concerned and when there’s nothing to worry about.

You should be concerned about your baby’s twitches if, after waking up, the twitching still persists. If your baby twitches only while they are asleep, then there’s no need to worry. Twitching while awake may be a symptom of a seizure disorder. A seizure disorder can be in a different form, which includes:

Benign familial neonatal convulsions. This kind of seizure is seen in an otherwise healthy baby with no other medical or neurologic problems. It starts within the first few days of life and stops around 4 to 6 months of age. The seizure can involve one or both sides of the brain. Signs of benign familial neonatal convulsions include muscle rigidity, convulsions, and loss of consciousness.
Epilepsy: This is another type of neurological problem that makes people prone to having seizures. It causes recurrent seizures for reasons that may be known or unknown, depending on the case.
Infantile spasms: It is a form of epilepsy that affects children under 12 months. It is more prominent between 4 to 8 months of age. During infantile spasms, the body becomes stiff while the extremities (the arms, legs, and head) may bend forward.
Febrile seizures: Febrile seizures are seizures accompanied by very high body temperatures. It usually occurs during an illness.

When to call for help

You should call for help or see a doctor immediately if you notice any of the following:

If the twitch is accompanied by abnormal eye movement. As other parts of the body twitch, if you notice any abnormal movement of the eye, it may be an indicator of a true seizure.
Also, if the baby twitches, you notice that there is a problem with their breathing, or they turn grey, blue, or purple, you should see a doctor.
A normal muscle twitch occurs in a few seconds. It is so short that it can go unnoticed. If your baby’s twitch lasts for as long as five minutes, you should see a doctor.

Conclusion

As your baby grows, you need to monitor their progress closely, and also observe them for new signs that can be normal or abnormal. If you are a first-time mom, it’s possible that most of these signs can get you concerned. You can write down these signs, the times that you notice them, and the things that trigger them, and discuss them with your doctor. Remember that your baby cannot explain verbally what the problem is.

The better observer you become, the better for your baby.

Newborn Grunting: Causes and Remedies

August 24, 2022 by Adeola Adebo

Babies can make grunting noises at various times of the day and night, from newborns to toddlers. Some parents are concerned about these noises even though, in most cases, they are perfectly normal. This grunting, however, can occasionally point to a medical problem, such as mucus buildup, gastric reflux, or irregular breathing.

This article discusses the causes of newborn grunting. It also explains the related symptoms, home treatments, and when to see a doctor. Let’s get right into it!

Is Newborn Grunting Normal?

You watch every single sound and movement your baby makes as a new parent. Most of the time, your baby’s gurgling sounds and squirms seem so adorable and helpless. However, if they moan, you may wonder if they’re in pain or in need of assistance.

Grunting in newborns typically has to do with digesting.

Simply put, your infant is adjusting to breast milk or formula. Due to the fact that they haven’t yet learned how to get things through, babies may feel uncomfortable due to gas or pressure in their stomachs. Although grunting is generally acceptable, if your baby is grunting constantly, has a fever, or seems to be in distress, visit your doctor. This grunting may be an indication of a more serious respiratory issue that requires urgent care.

Causes of Newborn Grunting

As they get used to having bowel motions, newborns frequently grunt. This is commonly referred to as “grunting baby syndrome” by doctors. Rest assured, it’s fairly common and rarely a sign of something serious.

Adults frequently relax their pelvic floor while passing stools by applying pressure with their stomach muscles, which aids in moving the feces through the digestive tract. A newborn uses their diaphragm muscle to move their intestines, initially because their stomach muscles are not yet strong enough to do so. They may grunt as a result of pressure on the voice box caused by the diaphragm’s workout.

Other reasons why infants grunt include:

Irregular Breathing Patterns: as they learn to manage their breathing patterns, newborns may grunt.
Mucus in the Nose and Nasal Passages: your baby’s nasal canal and nose are both rather small. It makes feeding easier as they generally breathe through their noses. Babies frequently produce a lot of mucus. Their little nose or nasal canal can become obstructed very easily, resulting in odd noises, coughs, and sneezes.

Wipe your baby’s nose, use a nasal aspirator, or give them a baby-specific saline nasal rinse to help them clear their nasal channel. If your infant is groaning with each breath, call a doctor right away.

Acid Reflux: Some infants get acid reflux. During digestion, this may cause gurgling and grunting noises. The muscles in your baby’s digestive tract are still growing, so they occasionally fail to keep the muscle between the stomach and esophagus closed properly. The majority of baby actions, including resting flat, contribute to this condition. Acid reflux in infants most of the time is entirely normal. Rarely, newborn reflux may indicate a more serious condition, especially if it is accompanied by any of the symptoms listed below:

Failure to gain weight
Frequent forceful vomiting
Spit up is green, yellow, red (blood-like), or brown
Won’t eat
Has blood in their stool or diaper

Constipation: babies frequently experience some minor feces difficulties as gravity helps feces leave your body when you stand up. It can be more challenging for babies because they frequently lie horizontally. When your baby is attempting to push out an uncomfortable bowel movement, they may groan and become red-faced.

How can you tell if your child has constipation? They might be constipated if they have pebble-like, pebble-hard bowel movements or if they cry whenever they poop in their diaper. Consult your pediatrician for suggestions if your infant is constipated. They might suggest that you give them more fruit juice or water. You can read this post to learn when and how to offer fruit juice to your baby.

Seek immediate medical assistance if your kid develops constipation, a fever, vomiting, blood in the stool, or a swollen stomach.

Remedies for Newborn Grunting

There are several natural remedies for infant grunting depending on the cause of the grunts.

1. Irregular Breathing

Unless the infant exhibits symptoms of respiratory issues, irregular breathing patterns are generally harmless. When the newborn is sleeping, you can use a baby monitor to look for any signs of irregular breathing. Additionally, some people utilize movement monitors, which alert the user if the baby stops moving for a prolonged period of time.

2. Learning to Pass Stools

The grunting that occurs when a newborn is first learning to pass feces is typically normal and doesn’t need to be treated. When a newborn learns to relax their pelvic floor and their stomach muscles develop, the grunting frequently disappears. This often occurs at around three months of age.

Rub petroleum jelly on the infant’s anus if they appear to be having problems passing stool. However, if it happens too frequently, the infant may not learn how to pass stools on their own.

3. Trapped Mucus

If a baby is moaning because mucus is clogging their airways, a nasal aspirator can help.

4. Acid Reflux

The home remedies listed below can assist in treating acid reflux in newborns:

Feeding the infant frequently.
Feeding the infant more gradually
Avoiding bottle nipples with big pores since they can make the flow go too quickly
Oatmeal can be used to thicken milk or formula, but first, consult a doctor
More frequent baby burping

When to Consult a Doctor

If these home remedies do not help, the newborn may have a condition called gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). If the infant is not gaining weight, if their digestive troubles don’t go away, or if they exhibit signs that could point to lung issues.

Every breath should not be grunted. A grunting sound at the end of each breath can indicate respiratory trouble. Consult your doctor if your baby is grunting frequently and is exhibiting other symptoms of sickness, such as a temperature, or seems to be in distress. This may be a symptom of a significant medical disease that needs to be treated right away. Grunting with breathing could indicate:

Asthma
Pneumonia
Sepsis
Meningitis
Heart Failure

To assess whether your baby’s grunts are normal or indicative of another issue, look for further symptoms of respiratory distress or sickness. Additional indications of respiratory issues include:

Blue tongue or skin
Weight loss
Fever
Lethargy
Nasal flaring
Pauses in breathing

Summary

When they are gaining the muscle power necessary to pass stools, newborns frequently grunt. Typically, the grunting is nothing to worry about. However, the grunting may be a sign of an underlying disease if certain symptoms are present. Seek immediate medical attention if a newborn is groaning and displaying any of the more serious signs mentioned above.

Although it might sound a little frightening, your baby’s grunting usually serves a very beneficial and healthy purpose. Grunting is rarely an indication of disease if your kid is healthy, active, seems content, and is getting enough to eat.

Pregnancy and Ovulation | All You Need To Know

August 4, 2022 by Adeola Adebo

Ovulation is a stage of the 28-day menstrual cycle. Ovulation specifically refers to the release of the egg (ovum) from the ovary of a female. If the egg is not fertilized during that time, it disintegrates (breaks down), and menstruation (your period) begins approximately two weeks (14 days) later. In this post, you’ll learn all you need to know about pregnancy and ovulation.

Don’t stop reading.

What Is Ovulation?

Reproductive hormones cooperate to activate the ovaries during the menstrual cycle, which leads to the development of follicles. Every follicle contains an immature egg. Ovulation is the release of an egg, or ovum, from the ovaries.

In most women, ovulation occurs on the 14th day of the menstrual cycle.

After ovulation, the egg moves through the fallopian tubes and into the uterus. When the sperm and egg come into contact at the proper time, conception may occur.

Signs of Ovulation

There are specific signs and also various methods of detecting ovulation. A proper understanding of these signs and symptoms is helpful while trying to conceive. You can also read this post about 7 interesting signs of ovulation.

These signs include:

1. Fertile quality vaginal discharge

Cervical mucus production is enhanced by an increase in estrogen levels before ovulation. Cervical mucus also undergoes a change in appearance, going from having a stickier, clumpier texture to resembling raw egg whites.

2. Ovulation predictor test strips

Thankfully, there are also tests available that can tell you when ovulation is about to occur, you urinate on the test to acquire a result, they operate similarly to pregnancy tests. This test strip works by detecting luteinizing hormone in your bloodstream.

3. Ovulation monitor

The ovulation monitor is a fancier form of an ovulation test strip. Some digital ovulation monitors utilize urine test strips to evaluate hormone levels, while others determine upcoming ovulation by measuring saliva, cervical secretions, or temperature.

4. Cervical opening

The cervix rises upward, softens to the touch, and opens slightly as ovulation approaches.

5. Basal body temperature

This is the most common method of determining ovulation dates. It depends on software that uses temperature data to track the progress of your menstrual cycle. However, this method is not reliable for women with irregular periods.

6. Typical cycle length

An ovulation calendar can help you determine when you are most fertile. Although it is not 100% accurate, the findings are adequate if you have regular cycles.

Conception and Fertilization

When an egg cell from a woman travels down one of the fallopian tubes from the ovary to the uterus and it combines with a sperm cell from a fertile man as it swims up through the vagina and into the uterus, conception occurs.

You can also read this article on how to calculate your conception date.

An embryo is the product formed when the sperm fertilizes the egg. Interestingly, the baby’s DNA and sex are determined at the time of fertilization. Your child will be a boy if the sperm carries the Y chromosome and a girl if the sperm carries the X chromosome.

The fertilized egg spends about 3 to 4 days in the fallopian tube after fertilization. Within the next 24 hours, this fertilized egg rapidly divides into multiple cells. It continues to divide as it slowly passes through the fallopian tube and enters the uterus.

At this point, your body begins to release various hormones that serve as the basis of a pregnancy test and promote prenatal development.

It is at this stage that a woman experiences a missed period.

Do you stop ovulating immediately after conception?

Yes, ovulation stops after conception.

After ovulation, the absence or failure of fertilization leads to menstruation or periods. On the other hand, if the ovulated egg is fertilized, your body knows that you’re pregnant and stops the process of ovulation. This is because the hormones that cause the various signs of pregnancy also inhibit ovulation.

Furthermore, you won’t have periods while pregnant because the uterine lining remains fixed to ensure proper prenatal development during pregnancy. In the rare instance that you experience periods or heavy bleeding in the early stage of pregnancy, please consult your doctor.

Does Ovulation Happen During Pregnancy?

Although it is possible to get a positive ovulation test result during pregnancy, you cannot ovulate while pregnant.

This only happens in cases of false positive ovulation test results arising from fluctuating hormone levels. Remember, a lot of these home test kits are only about 99% accurate.

Additionally, because pregnancy causes a significant rise in hormone levels, those levels could be a little too high, causing the test to show a positive result for ovulation. Therefore, a positive ovulation test result may simply be the consequence of hormonal changes or, in that case, a flawed test.

Conclusion

Only extensive tests that look for many eggs or ultrasounds that check to see if an egg has been released can provide a 100% guarantee of ovulation. In some circumstances, your body may be just about to become pregnant or, regrettably, just about to have a miscarriage.

Since our biological mechanisms are designed to stop the ovulation cycle once the uterus has a fertilized egg to care for, ovulation stops once an egg is fertilized and the woman is pregnant.