Can you get pregnant without ovulation? That’s a question from a woman struggling to detect ovulation or who just came to know that she’s pregnant. You CANNOT get pregnant without an egg in your Fallopian tubes. In most cases, women fail to pinpoint ovulation. They either believe they got pregnant without ovulating or were TTC on wrong dates. 

The problem is women often don’t know when do they ovulate. Other cases when you don’t get period like during breastfeeding, you can have ovulation at any time. Without an egg released in your tubes, you CANNOT get pregnant. Whether ovulation releases it or assisted Reproductive technologies ART, you need to get the egg first.

The reason you’re here is that probably you’ve to come to know that you can get pregnant anytime. It’s a misnomer or half-truth. All women, when considered together, can get pregnant at any time in the month. Bunch of your friends ovulates after 14 days, and others are quick momma hens.

So when you say in general, there is no particular THE day, and one can get pregnant any time. It can be getting pregnant on the 14th day of the menstrual cycle or 10th day. Adding to the confusion, there are different kinds of menstrual cycle varying in duration. With busy schedules and incompetent apps, it’s common to mistake ovulation date.

What is the fertility window? When do you ovulate?

The fertility period is the time you’re most likely to get pregnant. You might think having sex on 10th to 13th day won’t get you pregnant. Your man’s sperm keeps swimming in you for days. When you ovulate afterward the sperm is waiting to give the hug of love to the ovum. Still, you don’t get pregnant without ovulating. A pregnancy results from sexual intercourse before ovulation. Conception occurs after it ultimately.

Your body shows a lot of signs that hint ovulation took place. There is no other natural way to pregnant other than fertilization. For the fusion of genetic material from mother and father, both have to contribute. The mother releases an egg, and the father’s sperm has sperms. The site of fertilization is a fallopian tube.

The fertlity window is the time when your chances of getting pregnant are high. Since the sperms can live for 5 days inside your cervix, the fertility period is for the same duration. You can get pregnant from 3 days before ovulation until 24 hours after it. Total? Five days, add ovulation day too!

When you enter this phase of the menstrual cycle, the cervix position and mucus change drastically. Your breasts are sore, and there is a heightened desire to have sex. Ovulation spotting and cramps also happen to many. The amount of spotting is negligible, and cramps are too mild to be noticeable.

How to get pregnant when you’re not ovulating?

There is not much you can do apart from waiting. Naturally, you cannot get pregnant. However, if you’re looking for treatment for anovulation, there are many fertility drugs.

Clomid is one of the most popular fertility prescriptions. Remember that there are many types of fertility medications like hormonal pills, supplements, and ovulation-inducing drugs.

You can get an hCG shot to boost your fertility and cause ovulation. Artificial reproductive techniques exist that either causes ovulation or transfer an ovum into your uterus or fallopian tube.

Point to understand here is all these are ovulation correction therapies. There is no way that sperm could make a baby exclusively.

Pregnant Without Ovulation FAQs

There are many myths surrounding conception. Sex education mostly comes from people who know the least about it. It’s either; safe sex means contraceptive you had last year will take care or don’t have sex ever else you’ll get into trouble.

That’s the reason you never really know the truth about pregnancy and ovulation.

Get answers to the questions you wanted to ask about ovulation and getting pregnant.

1) Can you ovulate while on period?

No, unless you have an irregular period. Usually, every woman ovulates before her period. After ovulation the cyst (egg cover, shell) releases progesterone that maintains the lining of the uterus. 

The luteal phase (cyst, corpus luteum) prevents the flow of blood. The sequence of events has ovulation, luteal phase and period. 

Luteal phase and period are contradictory. Thus, it’s not possible to have both simultaneously. Those who have irregular menses implies that their hormones don’t have the right rhythm. 

Random spotting before and after ovulation can fake menstrual period.

2) Can I have a period before ovulation?

Technically every period is before the next ovulation!

So if you’re not vigilant enough, then you can skip to the day after a menstrual period. Assuming that you’re ovulating after period flow, you can mix the two cycles.

Period and ovulation have a gap of at least fortnight. On average values can differ giving you early or late period. After breastfeeding for six months, you will have a period without ovulation. Later the ovulation will resume like before.

It is possible that you don’t ovulate and have a period.

3) Can you ovulate and not have a period?

Every time a woman conceives this happens ?

When you get pregnant, you ovulate but don’t get period as progesterone levels don’t drop. Period requires that your progesterone falls and the lining breaks.

TTC couples have to aim to make this happen. Their opposites who are on continuous contraception also ovulate but don’t get period. Taking Depo-Provera or pills without the 7-day break can delay period for months. You either ovulate, or hormonal dip can skip ovulation too.

4) Can you ovulate more than once during a month?

Yes, you can and have fraternal twins or when you are on some fertility drugs.

Non-identical twins develop when you ovulate twice on the same day. Sperms fertilize both the eggs and you’ve twins. Fertility drugs also reduce the duration between two ovulations. You can even get two periods within a month. If your blood flow lasts for over seven days, every year you’ll have such occurrence.

Final words

Can a woman get pregnant without ovulation? No. Ovulation – whether natural or induced is essential for pregnancy. Period and ovulation have different relationships depending on the conditions. There can be irregularities in the dates and miscalculations. But there is no way to produce a baby without an egg.

The post Can You Become Pregnant Without Ovulation? appeared first on Pregnancy.

With the changing times, chronic disorders such as asthma have become common. Albuterol is a bronchodilator that helps one continue to live with the recurrent respiratory attacks.

What happens when you get pregnant while being on Albuterol? Is it safe for the baby inside you?

Once you get pregnant everything that you usually did becomes a source of doubts. Despite many studies show no increase in birth defects on use of albuterol, do ask your OB about it.

Why do you need to worry about albuterol during pregnancy? Your baby is inside the womb and not even near your respiratory tract. However, maximum meds flow in your blood and then carry out their action. Result being that albuterol gets into the blood that will reach every part of the body and placenta.

Pregnancy affects your pre-existing health conditions. For example, migraines might occur for the first time in pregnancy or stop after getting pregnant. Similarly, asthmatic pregnant women can have severe, stable or vanishing symptoms.

Why do I need to keep my asthma in control during pregnancy?

Every asthma patient knows that a sudden attack can happen at almost any time. Unpredicted as always you can’t risk getting the attack, reducing the amount of oxygen reaching your fetus. When pregnant you can’t afford the shortfall in oxygen circulating to your baby who depends on you totally.

Third-trimester pregnancy asthma needs to be under control. That’s because during labor oxygen supply fluctuations are fatal.

Another reason for the importance of controlling asthma in pregnancy is preeclampsia. The symptom is abnormally high blood pressure during pregnancy hampering oxygen transport. Preeclampsia is a risk factor for many other pregnancy complications risking both mother and the baby.

What is albuterol?

Just in case you’re yet not taking albuterol, and only taking your pregnancy tute! It’s also for those mums who are on albuterol alternative for pregnant women.

Albuterol is a bronchodilator that relaxes spasms in the respiratory tract. What does the drug do? After taking a dose, breathing difficulties subside. When inhaled or taken through nebulizer the drug opens choked lung pathways.

The blocking can be because of emphysema, asthma, bronchitis, or allergy. Some users even take it post-workout for exercise-induced wheezing.

Classification of drugs considers the ability to cross the placental barrier and affect the baby and pregnancy. Class C drugs don’t have enough research proofs of being safe for pregnant women. However, there is pregnancy compatibility under medical supervision.

Brand names for albuterol: Vintolin, Respimat, Proventil, Salbutamol, ProAir, AccuNeb, ReliOn, Apo Salvent, Combivant

Does Albuterol cross placenta?

Albuterol is a class C drug. Survey studies show that only a negligible amount crosses the placenta. The categorization of albuterol as class C drug is another reason why women worry about taking it.

Is albuterol safe during labor and postpartum?

Just like during pregnancy, you need to have oxygen before anything else. You can opt for having albuterol in your birth plan. Remember that albuterol hampers uterine contractions. Clearly, that is the reason the drug is tocolytic and prevents premature labor.

Breastfeeding mothers can use albuterol as it does not reach your baby significantly.

Medical experts suggest gauging the risk of not taking albuterol to decide whether to continue the use in pregnancy.

Can you take albuterol during pregnancy?

Birth defects need not necessarily occur in a particular stage of pregnancy. Albuterol doesn’t increase the background risk of 3-5% that exists irrespectively in every pregnant woman.

Growing baby pushes the cushion under your lungs called diaphragm. The space left for the lungs to expand while filling in the air reduces.

Women who are not asthma patients also have difficulty breathing while pregnant. If you’re an asthmatic pregnant woman, breathing becomes even more problematic for you.

Risks of not taking albuterol outweigh the hypothesized side effects on pregnancy. Most studies have shown that mothers on albuterol did not have any complications while giving birth. The babies born were healthy, had no birth defects and normal birth weight.

What are the risks of taking albuterol for asthma in pregnancy?

Earlier doctors administered oral albuterol for preventing premature delivery. The effects of oral albuterol mainly include lowering of maternal blood pressure. It’s temporary and doesn’t affect the baby either.

Overall here we are talking of the risk to pregnant women on inhaling albuterol.

There are no full proof reports citing any real findings of negative effects of albuterol on pregnant women. Limited studies have been done and most are based on trials.

Doctors always concluded that the risk of leaving asthma uncontrolled while pregnant was higher. In all cases keeping the symptoms under control gave positive results.

The only side effects of albuterol seen in pregnant mothers were shaky limbs. Reason for the shaking is the temporary increase in heart rate.

Along with the direct risks, albuterol has side effects that can accentuate the unpleasant symptoms in pregnancy. Common side effects of albuterol are nausea, diarrhea, insomnia, dizziness, and heartburn. Experiencing the last one is like trading one breathing difficulty for another.

Should you stop taking albuterol after getting pregnant?

Whether albuterol or antidepressant, you will not decide yourself. Ask your doctor about continuing or switching to some other prescription.

Keeping asthma under check is necessary for a healthy pregnancy. Though there have been reports of low birth weight, heavy postpartum bleeding and miscarriage but most were a chance association. Other drugs taken along albuterol could have been the real reason or drug interactions were responsible for the deleterious effects.

Can I take albuterol while breastfeeding?

The side effects of taking albuterol like preventing uterine contractions don’t affect you postpartum. For the baby the amount reaching in even less through breastmilk than placental blood supply.

Enough evidence is not available to support the recommendations for albuterol. Nonetheless, now you can think of other options as your baby isn’t inside.

If you feel that your asthma or any other cause of bronchospasm in pregnancy isn’t there any longer, ask your doctor before you stop.

There are different manufacturers, and brands selling albuterol. When you get pregnant ideally you should not experiment with your pre-existing conditions. Nonetheless, if the symptoms get adverse your doctor might suggest altering the dose or source.

Other than Albuterol, other Beta 2 agonists are also there. However, albuterol is safe for pregnant women mostly and so they may continue.

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Yes, Spicy food during pregnancy is safe for the baby and causes no harm according to reports. At most, a pregnant woman may feel discomfort like heartburn due to the irritation of the esophagus (tube connecting the throat with the stomach). This becomes more of a problem during the third trimester as the stomach acid is pushed upwards by the growing baby.  

Spicy stuff during pregnancy is not solely hot food. There is a large variety of spices available in the market which includes cool spices such as fennel.

Saffron is one of the best things to eat during pregnancy and is a warm flavoring substance.

Some women confirmed that craving food items that are hot and spicy during pregnancy is related to gender but there is no scientific evidence to back it up. But it is mostly a chance event.

While spicy food is safe, it can cause discomfort to the mother such as aggravated morning sickness. It can also add to the preexisting causes of hot flashes or heartburn or increase their frequency. Other than that there is no harm in having spicy food while pregnant.

Some women tend to have bizarre cravings for pickles and other peppery food during pregnancy. The hormones regulating pregnancy changes cause these cravings which need to be satiated.

Mood swings get worse when you stress yourself by avoiding certain foods that your body is demanding. Nevertheless eating too much spicy food will also cause minor troubles but no harm reaches your baby.

Most women have spicy food all throughout their lives, so a sudden switch is not ideal either. You cannot imagine eating bland food for good whole nine months. It is best to maintain a balance and eat moderately spiced food. You must consume a variety of food to ensure that you and your baby get all the nutrients.

Does eating spicy food during pregnancy harm the baby?

If you eat spicy food while pregnant, it will not have any harmful consequences for your baby. It might rather help your baby to be able to adapt to different tastes from an early age.

Some spices and herbs have special properties that are good for pregnant women. Your baby will not have any problems with growth or any other development process if you eat spicy food while pregnant.

Most fishes and non-vegetarian dishes require spices to give them a pleasant aroma. Make sure that when you are eating such dishes the seafood or poultry is not stale or spoilt.

Some women who are not tolerant of any particular kind of spice may have digestion issues. Others may have morning sickness worsening they consume solely spicy foods during pregnancy.

A balanced diet, where you have fruits, veggies, and lots of fluids will keep a check on such side effects of spicy food while pregnant. Even if you are craving spicy food during early morning hours on empty stomach, avoid it. When you eat such food on an empty stomach it leads to acidity and eventually other troubles set in.

What are the side effects of spicy food during pregnancy?

Morning sickness getting worse and heartburn are some of the side effects of eating spicy food. You will have phases of craving spicy food but you need to limit the intake.

Is too much spicy food bad during pregnancy?

Once you cross the allowed limit you’ll put yourself at risk of the cons of spicy food while pregnant. And eating very spicy food is not recommended even if we say spicy food safe during pregnancy.

Similarly eating spicy food during early pregnancy is not a good practice. During early pregnancy, the body undergoes maximal changes and is in havoc. During this time if you have morning sickness there is no way to prevent it completely. You have to bear it and so you must avoid taking very spicy food.

The intake of too spicy food during early pregnancy will only aggravate symptoms. Spicy foods during early pregnancy can cause severe heartburn or reflux leading to throwing up. Craving spicy food during early pregnancy is because of the hormones going haywire.

Effects of having spicy food during pregnancy

1) Aggravated Morning sickness

Most women experience nausea, discomfort, and vomiting during early pregnancy. At this time you can develop an aversion to a certain smell or taste. If you are lucky you may not have morning sickness at all. In cases where a woman has morning sickness, spicy food can make it worse. As spicy food is more likely to lead to vomiting or acid reflux, it is best to reduce the amount. Even if you have always had spices in your food, reducing the quantity will reduce chances of aggravated morning sickness.

2) Digestive problems

Some women who cannot tolerate spices may have burning sensations. There can be acid reflux where the food reruns from the stomach to the esophagus. There is a burning sensation in the throat and tract. Spicy food will always increase the chance of such events. There are very fewer benefits of spicy food to unnecessarily putting yourself through this.

3) Heartburn

During late pregnancy, women have heartburn which is like intensified local flashes of heat. It is caused by the stomach acids pushed up by the growing baby in the womb. Taking spicy food along with some liquids such as milk or honey will heal acid reflux. Heartburn can make you feel breathless and choked.

4) Hot flashes

The sudden eruptions of body heat spreading throughout the body are Hot flashes. Out of the many causes, eating spicy food is also a reason for such spontaneous heat eruptions.

5) Irritable uterus

There is no proof but some say that spicy food can induce labor. Women who are in the last stages of pregnancy eat spicy food while preparing for labor. However, heartburn and hot flashes can increase discomfort and mimic labor symptoms. One can eat spicy food while getting ready for labor to arrive.

The cause of irritable uterus from spicy food is nothing but gas distress. Spicy food when being digested can lead to bloating. This will push the surrounding organs and eventually the uterus. But the push cannot be so strong that it leads to labor.

A spicy meal can only lead to gas distress and even diarrhea. Unless your labor was going to happen anyway spicy food is not going to change the actual course of events.

Spicy Food During Pregnancy First trimester

Most pregnancy losses occur in the first trimester. Your body needs time to adjust to this new change. Symptoms such as early pregnancy cramps can worsen when you eat spicy food.

Undoubtedly pregnancy loss or miscarriage is not a normal consequence of having spicy food. You may have experienced discomfort and heightened nausea or morning sickness and that is all.

Spicy food during the second trimester is going to be easier on your body. By this time your body will have fewer hormonal fluctuations. Thus you’ll be able to have your favorite spicy food safe during pregnancy.

Spicy food Third Trimester

During the third trimester, your body is preparing for labor. As the baby grows it pushes the surrounding organs and so you’ll have acid reflux.

When you have spicy food beware of its potential to increase these symptoms. Bloating and gas distress are common during this phase of pregnancy. Thai cuisine or any similar spicy food items during pregnancy are not ideal for the third trimester.

A possible alternative to spicy food can be adding lemon juice to give the zest to your food. Be careful while consuming garlic and peppermint. Peppermint is known to relax muscles and the oil is popular for inducing menstruation.

Also, avoid too many green chilies as they reduce the clotting of blood.

If you have an irritable uterus or muscle twitching after having spicy food in the third trimester then you must call your doctor. One can confuse preterm labor and the after-effects of spicy food during pregnancy.

Summary

Spicy food good for pregnancy may only be for few reasons like an appetizer. Spicy food is safe during pregnancy and is not really a major concern, because there is no risk to the baby.

Spicy food during pregnancy helping in predicting boy or girl like a gender test is just old wives tales. Spicy food and pregnancy gender have no relation according to science.

Similarly, myths like spicy food during pregnancy leading to premature labor or any deformity in the baby should be heeded.

The post Spicy Food During Pregnancy – Is It Safe? appeared first on Pregnancy.

Many women face this question when they want to use hair dye during pregnancy. ????

Out of the limited ways to pamper yourself during pregnancy, hair color and highlights during pregnancy are the most tempting.

And for some women, gray hair is nerve-wracking and add on to the list of miseries while pregnant. The idea of your body undergoing a transformation can cause anxiety. Getting a new hair color can lift up a pregnant woman’s mood. 

The question popping in your mind is a good sign that you are a concerned mother.

Can You Dye Your Hair While Pregnant?

Yes, a pregnant woman dye hair during pregnancy. There is no danger to the fetus from the chemicals in the hair color. Nevertheless, you can take some precautions to minimize the risks as well as allergic reactions.

Are Hair Dyes Safe While Pregnant?

Researchers haven’t been able to establish any relation between hair dye color and fetus health.  It’s safe to assume that most branded hair colors are safe for human skin as well the baby in your belly.

Moreover, most of the dye is applied on the hair and the amount applied on the scalp is too less. A minute amount of hair dye is absorbed by the skin, which means that you and your baby are completely safe! Since hair is dead protein, there are no chances of chemical entering the bloodstream.

You may though get some allergic reactions from certain hair dyes so it’s always better to patch test on the inner elbow, let it dry and observe any adverse reactions. 

If you’re still hesitant and want to err on the side of caution, you may choose semi-permanent dye with fewer toxins. You can also opt for highlights which are considerably safer as hair dye is applied only along the length of the hair strands and not the scalp. Natural dyes such as Henna are still better and completely safe.

Ways to color hair during pregnancy safely

A study showed that bleaching hair often can increase the risk of miscarriage in pregnant women. Those who work in parlors and are pregnant can have this complication. Exposure to the fumes that evolve from bleaching hair is not safe during pregnancy.

Hair dyes having toxins or artificial hair coloring agents can cause side effects and allergic reactions. During pregnancy, hair texture changes and hair may react differently to the hair dye. Always, do a patch test and check the ingredients before applying hair color.

1) Color hair after the first trimester

The first trimester is most crucial for a baby’s development. During this stage, your body undergoes a great hormonal imbalance. The color and texture of hair can change due to this change and may revert back later. It is important to wait until the second trimester to get your hair dye. Any fumes or least exposure to chemicals can cause an early miscarriage.

2) Opt for safe natural hair dyes

You can color your hair yourself using homemade hair dyes for pregnant women. Henna and coffee serve as natural and safest hair color during pregnancy. Beware of the vegetable dyes available in the market as they can have any chemical. It is best to make your own hair dye during pregnancy, using water and vegetable extracts. Applying your hair color will also make sure that you don’t allow any harsh chemicals to touch your scalp.

3) Get highlights while pregnant

Instead of coloring your hair completely during pregnancy, opt for highlights. In that case, you’ll be only getting hair color on your strands. Avoid root to tip treatments as they lead to extensive exposure. Hair highlights during pregnancy is a sort of patch test that stays final. You don’t allow the hair dye to come in contact with any tissue that can transfer the chemicals to blood.

4) Apply color in an open ventilated space

More than the hair color it is the fumes that are harmful during pregnancy. Women who are exposed to bleach fumes for over 40 hours a week during pregnancy are at high risk of miscarriage. Even when you are applying hair color at home, do it in an open space. Don’t go to overcrowded salons for hair treatments during pregnancy. The suffocation can make you uncomfortable and increase chances of exposure to toxic fumes.

5) Take short and quick hair treatment while pregnant

Hair treatments that involve long procedures or multiple sittings are not good for pregnant women. Even if you need to get your grays done often, avoid very long treatments. When you allow the hair color to stay for long, it starts moving into the skin layers.

6) Follow safety instructions for hair coloring during pregnancy

Wear gloves and be very particular of the safety instructions. During pregnancy every part of the body becomes sensitive. Not following the instructions can cause reactions or allergies. Do not use hair sprays for covering grays or hair relaxants during pregnancy frequently. These aerosols can enter your respiratory tract and cause problems.

7) Consider semi-permanent hair color

The harsh the hair treatment is, the less is its safety assured. You must avoid getting permanent hair colors during pregnancy. Permanent colors are very harsh for long-term action. Semi-permanent hair colors are a better choice. You can get hair color when you are pregnant more than once. That will still be safer than permanent dyes. Wash your scalp thoroughly after getting hair color during pregnancy.

8) Avoid bleach and drastic changes

Bleach or going from blonde to dark hair requires a lot of salon treatments. Pregnancy is not the right time for such makeovers. This also includes the possibility of not being happy with the change and feeling depressed. During pregnancy, it is natural that you’ll change and cannot be totally like you were before it. You need to accept the fact and then decide on a suitable hair treatment. Try sticking to the similar shades of your natural hair color.

9) Avoid hair color from touching scalp or eyes

During pregnancy, any infection can take longer to heal. Along with leg cramps, mood swings and back spasms during pregnancy you can’t afford to have another issue. You must prevent the hair color from touching any delicate regions. After completing the work clean yourself. Do not eat while getting a treatment because you may directly consume toxins.

10) Go to a parlor that deals with pregnant women

As mentioned above, you must avoid overcrowded parlors. More than popularity you need comfort and reliability right now. A beautician that deals with pregnant women will help you best. They will have the right cosmetics for you. The right parlor, attendant, and treatment will ensure the safety of hair color for a pregnant woman.

No one can tell you what is right or wrong while you are expecting. You can read about the safety of hair color during pregnancy. The decision of getting hair highlights while pregnant or not is up to you. If doing so brings you out of pregnancy blues then you must do it. You can test the dye on some strands. Do not let the hair color sit on your head for too long.

The post Can You Dye Your Hair While Pregnant? 10 Tips For Dying Hair During Pregnancy appeared first on Pregnancy.

One of the most frequent questions from pregnant women is, “Can I take Benadryl while pregnant?”

Let’s admit, during pregnancy, all medications seem suspicious. Not just medicines, the food we eat also raise many questions in our mind! So it’s understandable that many of us doubt Benadryl during pregnancy.

Let’s first understand why and when Benadryl is used. After that 

Allergens lead to the release of histamine that causes an inflammatory response. Benadryl is an antihistamine drug that alleviates the histamine reaction and soothes you.

So can Benadryl harm the baby inside you?

Antihistamines can cross placenta but Benadryl while pregnant is safe for use. Benadryl is a sedative and induces sleep. Taking a moderate dose of Benadryl during pregnancy can also help in insomnia. Women prone to seasonal allergies with symptoms like sneezing can take Benadryl during pregnancy.

What is Benadryl?

Benadryl (Generic name: Diphenhydramine) is an antihistamine widely used to treat symptoms of allergy, hay fever, and the common cold. These symptoms include skin rash, itching, watery eyes, itchy eyes, nose or throat, hives, cough, runny nose, and sneezing.

Benadryl is also prescribed in cases of motion sickness. Since it is a sedative and induces sleep, it used to prevent or lessen nausea, vomiting, and dizziness seen in motion sickness.

The drug is available in two major forms, tablets and syrup. Other well-known brand names are Sominex, Unisom, and Nytol.

Is it safe to take Benadryl when pregnant?

Benadryl is a class B drug according to FDA. Just like other antihistamines such as Allegra, Claritin, and Zyrtec you can safely take Benadryl during pregnancy.

Benadryl chemically is Diphenhydramine, but market versions include combinations with other drugs. You must read the exact composition of Benadryl you are taking while pregnant. There are variants such Total Benadryl for allergy and sinus which have pseudoephedrine. 

The decongestant for relief from the stuffy nose in higher dose is a stimulant. Drugs with stimulating effect lead to developmental defects in the fetus.

Dosage Of Benadryl While Pregnant 

Just like other things you need to follow precautions for taking Benadryl while pregnant. How much Benadryl can I take while pregnant? Over the counter medicines have dosage mentioned in the instructions leaflet. You can continue taking the moderate allowed dosage of Benadryl.

The risks associated with taking Benadryl while pregnant depend on the dosage. When the drug is not contraindicated for you, allowed dosages will not harm.

Dosage of Benadryl Pregnancy first trimester

The first trimester allows you take 25-50 mg of Benadryl. Benadryl while pregnant first trimester is safe in the allowed dosage. During the first trimester, there is less risk of Benadryl side effects for the fetus.

Dosage of Benadryl Pregnancy second trimester

Later in the second trimester, you need to moderate the dose to less than 25 mg. Benadryl while pregnant 2nd trimester is also not going to harm your baby. Now you need to have a lower dose not crossing the lower limit. 

During the second trimester, your body is less prone to allergies. The immune system weakens maximum during the first trimester. You may need it for sedative effects to relieve sciatica pain or hip pain.

Dosage of Benadryl Pregnancy third  trimester

Later in the third trimester, you need to moderate the dose to less than 25 mg. For Benadryl while pregnant 3rd trimester you cannot take more than 25 mg in 6 hours. As the due date for labor approaches, you must consult your doctor about taking such drugs.

You must talk to your doctor about it before modifying your dose.

Can I use Benadryl cream while pregnant?

Applying topical Benadryl cream during pregnancy is more promising when it comes to the safety of the fetus. When you use the cream on the skin, a majority of the cream stays in the skin layers. As the antihistamine does not enter circulation, it cannot reach the fetus. It is best to use Benadryl cream during pregnancy whenever possible.

What are the risks of taking Benadryl during pregnancy?

1. Withdrawal symptoms in baby appear when you take more than 150 mg of the drug.
2. Overdose can increase the risk of preterm labor. Diphenhydramine in large dose acts like oxytocin hormone. It is responsible for lactation and labor.
3. Combination of Benadryl with other drugs can lead to birth defects such as cleft palate.
4. The chances of getting the disease are higher when a pregnant mother over consumes Benadryl.
5. Benadryl is a sedative and causes dizziness. So you need to avoid work that requires focus after taking Benadryl.
6. Benadryl while breastfeeding can alter milk composition and lower the yield. Side effects such as irritability and fatigue are observed in newborn upon excess intake.

Natural allergy remedies while pregnant

You cannot prevent allergies if they are seasonal. All you can do is cover your face when you go outdoors or avoid having pets.

Whether or not to take an antihistamine during pregnancy remains elusive. Not enough has been studied about the effects of common anti-allergen on human pregnancy.

You have to trust what your doctor says or try natural remedies for allergies during pregnancy.

Allergies during pregnancy don’t behave similarly with all women. While some women get rid of their preexisting allergies during pregnancy, and others get a new allergy.

Ten effective natural remedies for allergies during pregnancy

Natural ways to treat allergies during pregnancy

1) Nettle leaf

The herb prevents the release of histamine from the mast cells upon entry of allergen. Allergen itself does not bring the discomfort. Instead, it is the release of histamine that leads to symptoms of allergy during pregnancy. Drinking extracts of nettle leaves alleviate seasonal allergies during pregnancy. You can add nettle leaves to your herbal tea.

2) Cashew milk or curd

Instead of taking an artificial sedative for insomnia during pregnancy opt for cashew milk. The omega fatty acids in the cashew boost the immune system.

Milk and milk products have proteins and natural biota that compensates for a compromised immune system. Probiotics during pregnancy will also improve your baby’s resistance to allergies.

Can allergy affect your baby? No, unless the allergy is severe and leafing to asthmatic symptoms your baby is safe. Your baby needs nutrients and oxygen. The supply of these along with the removal of toxins is essential.

3) Apple cider vinegar

The best natural remedy for allergies during pregnancy is the use of Apple cider vinegar. You can take it along with warm water or as a dressing for your salad.

The lymph nodes and circulation are vital for your ability to fight foreign particles. Apple cider vinegar boosts immune by rejuvenating the lymphatic system.

Along with allergies apple cider vinegar works for heartburn during pregnancy.

4) Saline nasal spray

Natural allergy remedies for flu-like symptoms include saline nasal spray. All you need is salt dissolved in warm water. Wash your nose with this saline and sneeze out all dust and dirt. The sprays available in the market are steroidal and lead to vasodilation. Such drugs are not safe during pregnancy.

Try homemade nasal saline spray for seasonal allergies during pregnancy.

Take precautions such as covering your nose and avoid going out in open fields. Air currents have pollens that lead to sneezing and pregnancy allergy.

5) Honey

The best home remedy for skin allergy during pregnancy is the use of honey. You can take honey along lemonade. It will fight morning sickness and refresh you. Along with that honey also boosts immunity and has a whole lot of benefits for the baby. You can drink honey along warm milk.

6) Ginger tea

If you have your allergy worse during pregnancy, it implies that your immune system is compromised. When you are in the first trimester morning sickness leads to loss of appetite and dehydration. It is riskier for you, and now you will easily catch other infections. All this, in turn, affects your baby’s development. 

The herbal concoction of ginger lemon tea works best for flu-like symptoms of allergies. Ginger has the properties to relax the sensitized nasal membrane and bring relief.

7) Epsom salt bath

Alternative for Benadryl while pregnant to cure pain is a hot Epsom salt bath. Magnesium and sulfur-rich salt help to relax muscles and pain due to sciatica. It flushes out toxins and soothes the pain.

8) Cumin steam

Nasal congestion due to allergy or sinus during pregnancy hampers breathing. Shortness of breath due to compression by the uterus increases in such a condition. Pharyngeal breathing leads to dryness of mouth and throat.

Taking cumin seeds vapors is a home remedy for sinus during pregnancy. The puffs for asthma are not very safe for pregnant women. Boil some cumin seeds in hot water and take the steam of the extract to relieve nasal congestion.

9) Quercetin

Another herbal remedy for allergies during pregnancy is quercetin. The chemical which is present in broccoli, tomatoes, berries and vitamin c rich fruits controls histamine release. The antioxidant properties alleviate the symptoms of histamine reaction such as inflammation.

You can get supplements of Quercetin or add broccoli to soups and salads. The anti-inflammatory property treats food and seasonal allergy. It cures symptoms like watery eyes, swelling and pain just like medical prescriptions.

10) Air purifier

While you are addressing the allergy, you also need to prevent the cause. Using humidifiers and air purifier will check allergens inside your house and workplace.

The post Can I Take Benadryl While Pregnant? appeared first on Pregnancy.

How is abortion done?

Abortions are of two types: Medical and Surgical.

In medical abortions, you just have to pop a pill in the first trimester which is  up to ten weeks of pregnancy.

Surgical abortions are safe in first and second trimester, and they adopt procedures like

• Evacuation
• Dilation
• Aspiration
• Induction

Aspiration is done up to 16 weeks after the last period. Dilation and evacuation methods are done after 16 weeks.

Types of Methods of abortion

Aspirations are done either manually or mechanically. In aspiration, a tube enters into the cervix that passes into the uterus. It sucks the baby out of the womb and empties the uterus.

In dilation and evacuation, the doctor scrapes out the tissue attached to the uterine lining. Doctors perform it with the help of a scooping kind of an instrument. The entry made to the uterus is through the cervix.

These procedures occur in less than ten minutes and require no incisions.

Doctors carry out the procedure of Induction after 16 weeks of pregnancy. Fake labor induced in the woman by giving certain medications delivers the fetus.

The practitioner combines it with surgical abortion to make sure the uterus is empty.

How late can you get an abortion?

Albeit abortion procedures are fairly easy, they may involve some questions for some individuals.The woman needs to know how far along she is in her pregnancy. Doctors test this through ultrasounds and testing.

1. Abortion during First and Second Trimester: Lots of options are available in the first and second trimester, so a pregnant woman should make up her mind early. Abortions are one of the safest procedures in the first trimester. In the second trimester, the risk of death from childbirth is 11 times more than that from abortion.Medical abortion (using abortion pill) can be done during the first trimester and up to first 10 weeks. Surgical abortions can also be done during the first and the second trimester. Aspiration is done up to 16 weeks after the last period. Dilation and evacuation methods are done after 16 weeks. Induction is done after 16 weeks of pregnancy.
2. Abortion during Third TrimesterIn the United States, the latest date of abortion varies from state to state. According to the medical community, the fetal age of viability is around 24 weeks. The fetus can survive outside the mother’s body at or around 24 weeks. If an abortion is performed after this period, the law in many states considers it illegal. In third trimester, the chances of dying from an abortion are equal to those of dying from childbirth. This is another reason why doctors advise pregnant mothers to make up their mind early.

When is abortion illegal?

• Abortions in the late second trimester and early third trimester are illegal in most countries.
• Abortions are illegal only when the baby is viable and ready to survive outside the womb.
• Abortion of viable fetus poses a great threat to the woman’s health. It comes under the category of ‘intent to murder.’

Note: Late-term abortions are permissible only if they are medically necessary. This is the case where a mother’s life is at risk due to the child.

What are the risks involved with abortion?

The risk of abortion increases as you go further along the pregnancy.

Risks of abortion and late-term abortions are:

• Hemorrhage
• Damage to cervix
• Complications during anesthesia
• Damage to the uterus which can be permanent
• Uterine infections
• Perforated uterus

Things to know before getting an abortion

1. The heartbeat of the baby:The heart starts beating by the fifth week of pregnancy. The longer you wait to end your pregnancy, the more is the guilt attached to the fetus now has a heartbeat and is alive.
2. Baby starts to move: The baby’s movements also known as ‘quickening’ felt by the 13th week of pregnancy. Now that he/she has started to move, you become fond of his movements and the attachment grows stronger. It will be hard to terminate the pregnancy once you can feel the life inside of you.
3. Taking Abortion pills: If the clinic gave you an abortion pill, you will be passing out clots and tissues. Opt for it if you can bear to see a sight like that.
4. Late term aborted babies can be alive: Though the chances of this occurring are less, but it has occurred where a fetus aborted at 20 weeks was viable.

Abortion is a matter where we don’t advice much because it has many ethical and moral concerns. It is best to leave it up to the mother. There are many cases when the abortion is necessary as a step for saving the mother. However, one has to balance guilt and unwanted responsibility if it is a willfully done abortion.

The post How Late Can You Get An Abortion? appeared first on Pregnancy.

Whether trying to get pregnant or not, one question that we all seek an answer to is that, ‘can you get pregnant on your period?‘

Well, this scenario is unlikely and definitely not desirable but surely possible. Who would want to indulge in sex at that time of the month when it is messier and dirty? Depends ?!

Period or menses is the blood loss that occurs at the end of the menstrual cycle when a mature ovum fails to get fertilized by a sperm.

Most women have menstrual cycles lasting 28 days but for other women, the number of days could be as less as 22. Women with shorter cycles ovulate soon after they end their periods. 

You are highly fertile in the five-day span surrounding your ovulation.

Can You Get Pregnant on Your Period?

Yes, you can get pregnant during your menses. Having unprotected sex can get you pregnant at any time of the month. There are reasons such as sperm life, irregular ovulation and different length of cycle.

Your sex ed class needs to be sent to the bin and permanently deleted. You might have been taught of the concept of one egg releasing a month. Lady, nearly 8 eggs begin maturation in a month!

Sperms can live in your vagina and you can have your next ovum or any ovum for conception.

Whatever calculations you do for not getting pregnant by abstinence will fail.

Conception occurs when the sperm travels all the way to the fallopian tubes from the uterus to fertilize the mature ovum.

In the middle of the cycle or on the 14th day of the cycle, a mature ovum is released from either of the ovaries.

Release of egg must occur between day 12th and day 16th of the cycle. Fallopian tubes suck in the egg released by the ovary. And egg meets the sperm and you’ve a baby.

Statistical data shows chances of getting pregnant to be 35% near the day before ovulation. Never does it rule out the lesser chance of getting pregnant on other days.

What happens during the menstrual cycle?

Menstrual cycle starts from the first day of one period to the first day of the next period.

The ovum stays in the Fallopian tubes for 24 hours only. If a sperm does not fertilize it, it sheds along with the lining of the uterus during your period.

The cervical mucus around this time is white, thick and springy when touched. It facilitates the movements of sperms in the reproductive tract.

Can I get pregnant on the last of period?

Period is not a natural contraception or infertile phase. You never know when your menstrual cycle decides to go haywire. One can ovulate as early as 4-5 days after period.

Sperms can live in your vagina for 5 days. In that case you can conceive on the last of your period.

On an average women get pregnant after two weeks from last day of menstrual period. Exceptionally, they get pregnant any day of the month!

Can I get pregnant on the third day of period?

Like this many more similar questions are thrown to us by our readers. By the third day your period takes a backseat. Now ideally you shouldn’t be having any lining for implantation of baby’s cell.

You can get pregnant on third day of period with low progesterone levels in early pregnancy. Later your body either builds up the pregnancy hormone or doctors prescribe medication to supplement.

When you have a heavy flow there is least chance of getting pregnant. That’s because a certain thickness of endometrial lining is essential for sustainable pregnancy.

Not all women have heavy period and don’t even think of the number of women with irregular period. In their case it’s not the period that always happens. Just a dip in hormones could cause spotting! And when it stops, that’s because the body restored hormonal balance. Can a woman get pregnant on irregular period? Yes, a woman in reproductive age can conceive with irregular period.

There are women out there who have cycle length of 22, 32, 38 etc days. They won’t be following the same duration of phases, like a typical 28 days cycle. That’s the reason you just can’t expect a single answer to can I get pregnant on period.

A short menstrual cycle can cause pregnancy while on period

A sperm can survive inside a female’s body for 3 to 6 days. A woman, who has a shorter menstrual cycle and has unprotected intercourse during your period, will have a higher chance of conceiving. The sperm might be sticking around waiting for the egg to release from the ovaries.

When the menstrual cycle is short, say 21 to 24 days then ovulation date will fall shortly afterward the periods.

Unprotected intercourse towards the last days of bleeding will allow sperm to fertilize the egg.

The egg will release sooner as your ovulation date will fall close to your periods. This increases the chance of getting pregnant during your period.

Long menstrual cycles prevent pregnancy during periods

For a woman with a longer menstrual cycle of say 28 days, chances of conceiving are less. Her ovulation might be a few days away, and the sperm will pass away till then.

Can You Get Pregnant Right After Your Period?

Is it possible to get pregnant right after period? For a woman whose menstrual cycle is the usual 28 days long, her fertility window starts from day 11 to day 21.

So if your period lasts for 6 to 7 days and you have sex within the next couple of days, the chances of conception to occur are high. You are closer to ovulation and near your fertility window.

For example, if your period ended on day 7, had intercourse on day 8 and your ovulation occurred on day 12th. The sperm from day 7 could be waiting in your reproductive tract till day 12 to fertilize the egg. 

As it has mentioned above that, sperm can survive within a female’s reproductive tract for 2-5 days.

Thus, your chances of conceiving increases with each day after your period ends. 

A misconception regarding getting pregnant on periods is:

Some women mistake bleeding occurring on ovulation for regular periods. Later fail to understand how they possibly conceived if they were on their periods.

Can You Get Pregnant Right Before Your Period?

If you had intercourse a few days before your periods began, then it is safe to say that you are less likely to get pregnant. Ovulation has already occurred between day 11 and day 21, and now it is several days away.

The days just before your period are the safest for having coitus as the chances of conception are least. Women with longer cycles have more safe days than the women with shorter cycles.

The post Can You Get Pregnant on Your Period? appeared first on Pregnancy.

So you had a steamy session with your boyfriend, and a question is raging in your mind. Can you get pregnant from precum? The answer to this question is simply YES!

Although precum doesn’t contain sperm compared to the seminal fluid, it can be the reason for pregnancy.

But what exactly is this mystical precum? Read along to find out.

What is precum and where is it produced?

Precum or pre-climax fluid is released from the male private part when sexually aroused. It is secreted by bulbourethral glands or Cowper’s glands. These are the two small glands positioned alongside the male urinary tract. These glands are present at the base of the private part.

What does precum have?

Precum is an alkaline mucus secretion. Precum has chemicals associated with a seminal fluid like acid phosphatase.

What does precum do?

The pre-climax fluid performs critical functions like:

• Precum helps to neutralize the acidic environment (due to the urine) of the urethra.
• It prepares the way through which the sperms travel and make their way out of the opening of the male organ.
• It protects the sperm and helps it sail smoothly towards its destination.
• Precum also in a way helps the sperms remain healthy as they make their way towards the egg.

What does precum look like?

• The fluid is usually colorless and transparent.
• It is sticky and has a mild odor.
• It exudes dropwise. The drops get bigger, but it doesn’t form a stream or a continuous flow normally.
• It is not as thick as normal male fluid.

When and where does precum appear?

Precum usually appears on the tip of the organ when a man is in the state of arousal and indicates that the climax is near. It paves the route for the male fluid and the sperms to travel. The thickness and concentration may vary from person to person.

The transparent liquid does not contain sperms in it. But it can absorb the sperms left over in the urethra from the previous male discharge.

Does precum contain sperms?

Research shows that nearly 41% of men tested for the presence of sperms in it gave positive results. It was due to the leftover sperms in the urethra that came along with precum in the next session.

This shows that if dick penetrates and precum releases then there is some bleak chance that sperms transfer. Even if the organ is withdrawn these sperms will be transferred.

Can You Get Pregnant From Precum?

The chances are very getting pregnant from this fluid. If the male penetrates the female and doesn’t climax, then there is a little to zero chance of getting pregnant with it. 

Can you get pregnant from pulling out?

1. The natural contraception of pulling out or withdrawal method is the least effective. The scientific term for it is coitus interruptus. It is moderately efficient as discharge and climaxes are the most satisfying and pleasurable states. It requires a high level of self-control to take out the organ at that time.
2. Some people practice wearing condoms just when the climax is near. The withdrawal method will be inefficient in this case as precum exudes before the climax.
3. Even if the person manages to pull out in time but climaxes around the vagina, there is a chance of getting pregnant. This is because some amount of sperm can make their way into the fallopian tube.
4. There is less risk of getting pregnant if there is the presence of precum without full discharge.

The bottom line is that the chance of getting pregnant from precum is remote, but they do exist and cannot be ignored. Also, some men start exuding fluids as soon as they reach arousal. So withdrawal is a far-flung question for them because even humping will serve the unwanted purpose in rare cases.

Does precum also pass on sexually transmitted diseases (STDs)?

Another misinformation and myth regarding it is that it helps to avoid STDs, but this is not true. Sexually transmitted diseases spread from precum are:

1. Gonorrhea: The pathogens of Gonorrhea reside in the urinary tract and hence are present close to Cowper glands and come along with precum. Gonorrhea transmits during oral sex if you ingest it.
2. Chlamydia: Chlamydia is also known to transmit and cause throat Chlamydia from precum.
3. HIV : It is often found that some samples of precum do have the presence of HIV. This can transmit HIV infection .
4. Herpes, Trichomoniasis, Hepatitis Syphilis
5. Other sexually transmitted diseases can also transmit from precum. Oral Herpes gets passed on during oral sex.

Hence it is very important to use a condom while having sex with random partners. Even when you know the partner there are chances that they have an undiagnosed STD.

Can You Get Pregnant Without Penetration?

Can you get pregnant without penetration is one question that we often get from our readers. Most teens have this niggling question. 

The simple answer to this question is that No, you cannot get pregnant without penetration.

All one has to take care of is that the seminal fluid should not come in contact with the vaginal canal. Once sperm enters the vaginal canal, there is a possibility of the woman getting pregnant.  

Can dry humping Cause Pregnancy from precum?

Many youngsters wonder, can dry humping cause pregnancy? Dry humping is rubbing private parts for sexual arousal and stimulation. Dry humping virtually isn’t dry at all. “Getting wet” when aroused is all about exuding precum fluids while foreplay activities like dry humping. 

Studies have shown that precum can pass through thin clothing and sperms can come along.

So there are chances (thought almost nil) that you get pregnant from it when you are dry humping.

Precum fluid makes its way from the urethra and escapes out from the tip of the male part, unnoticeable. One cannot control or realize the flow of this fluid. Hence, safe sex is the key to avoid pregnancy.

What are the contraceptives to prevent pregnancy from precum?

The only contraceptive that is effective in preventing STDs effectively is a condom. Out of vaults, cervical caps, diaphragms; condoms are the most effective way of birth control from it.

Wearing two condoms in the sense that both of you wear a condom will increase friction. The chances of getting STD from precum will increase. Wearing two condoms by the male partner also makes them prone to breaking. It makes the sexual act uncomfortable.

Birth control pills are also effective against pregnancy.

The post Can You Get Pregnant From Precum? appeared first on Pregnancy.

So, you love eating fish. But now you’re pregnant and are wondering if fish is safe for you and your baby? There are many doubts and confusions about what one should eat during pregnancy. Some of the most frequently asked questions about pregnancy nutrition are ‘Can I eat fish while pregnant?‘ or ‘Is seafood safe when I’m pregnant?‘ or ‘List of safe fish during pregnancy.‘

Read along to find out the safe fish to eat during pregnancy. It is also essential to know seafood that is not safe during pregnancy. 

Types of fish you can eat when you are pregnant are the Fish rich in nutrients, essential vitamins, and amino acids.

The American Journal of Clinical Nutrition¹ mentions that eating fish and shellfish during pregnancy is good for baby’s brain.

Benefits of Fish while pregnant

In a study published in The Lancet, US and British scientists showed that the children of mothers who ate fish while pregnant had higher IQ and social abilities. This study sufficiently answers those who want to know if it’s safe to eat fish while pregnant. But we will delve more for more clarity.

• Seafood is white meat. White meat considered best for health. It has healthy cholesterol and omega fatty acids.
• Seafood is a storehouse of amino acids, proteins, vitamins, and minerals required for the growing baby.
• Eating seafood while pregnancy will help you gain weight gradually. Thus it will be healthier.

Why some people consider seafood unsafe for pregnant women?

Taboos such as that eating fish during pregnancy leads to white patches, and pigmentation problems in the baby’s skin are scary. Doctors have given contradictory instructions about eating fish by pregnant women. So how far are these findings of eating seafood during pregnancy true?

• Water from industries and agricultural lands mixes with sea water from drainage. It brings along harmful toxins.
• Fishes of all kinds have got the harmful chemicals and elements such as mercury in them. Mercury can pass through the placenta to the growing baby.
• Mental retardation, kidney failure, bone deformation, teeth enamel rupture, etc are adverse effects of mercury.

You need to select the fishes that have less of these harmful Mercury salts and are from clean water sources while finding fishes for eating during pregnancy.

What are the dangers of eating fish during pregnancy?

• If you eat a wrong type of fish during pregnancy, it won’t affect you much. The high levels of Mercury will interfere with your baby’s brain development and might lead to severe mental retardation. So it is the baby who suffers due to the harmful effects of eating the wrong seafood. Accidentally eating a fish with high mercury level won’t harm but regular consumption of such fish leads to complications.
• A woman’s body becomes a lot more sensitive during pregnancy. There are chances that something you’ve been eating since ages will act as an allergen. This includes fishes too. A red patch or itching is a sign of allergy which may or may not reverse even after pregnancy. Select the fish carefully and buy only from a reliable place.

What kind of Seafood is safe during pregnancy?

Can pregnant women eat fish? This question doesn’t have a definite answer.

Fish intake during pregnancy and allergic outcomes² show minimal correlation suggesting that it’s safe and beneficial.

It is OK to eat fish when pregnant if you know the right breeds and variety.

Earlier FDA proposed that pregnant females shouldn’t eat fish due to the risk of mercury poisoning. Now, it has recommended including more fishes in pregnant woman’s diet.

List of safe fish during pregnancy

1. Crab: Can you eat crab while pregnant? Cook crab meat before eating to ensure its safety. Crab has phosphorus, selenium, and copper. Every cell needs phosphorous for protein formation. Crab meat also has Vitamin B12 and is a rich protein source. It also has essential omega-3 fatty acids which are incredibly important for the development of your baby’s brain.
2. Shrimp: Can pregnant women eat shrimp? Cooked Shrimps are the best fish to eat when for a pregnant woman and her baby. Shrimps have vitamin D essential for hormonal balance and skin formation. Shrimps are low in calories and cholesterol and have a higher proportion of minerals such as iodine, zinc, etc.
3. Mussels: Can you eat Mussels while pregnant? Mussels are rich in niacin and other forms of vitamin B such as Vitamin B12. It is cardioprotective. It can prevent the development of heart disorders in your baby. This is the best shellfish to eat while pregnant.
4. Prawns: Is it safe to eat prawns during pregnancy? Prawns are good for pregnant women. They are beneficial for your baby’s skin development. Prawns also improve eyesight. So eating prawns can aid the development of a baby’s eyes. Prawns are rich in vitamin B 12, B 6, Iron and sodium. Prawns are the healthiest seafood during pregnancy.
5. Salmon: Can you eat Salmon when pregnant? Salmon is one of the healthiest fishes during pregnancy. It has omega-3 fatty acids that are good for the heart. Salmons have a lot of phosphorus which is good for bones and potassium maintains electrolyte balance. Salmon is good for pregnant females for reducing hypertension.
6. Lobster: Can pregnant women eat Lobster? Lobster has a higher cholesterol level and is suitable for pregnant females who have complaints of weakness and lethargy. Also for the baby Lobsters have a blessing as they boost the immune system. They have high levels of selenium that is an anti-oxidant and helps in detoxifying your body during pregnancy.
7. Pollock: Can I eat Pollock while pregnant? Pollock is low in mercury content and hence is suitable fish for eating during pregnancy. It has a lot of omega-3 fatty acids which help in the formation of the heart, brain and other organs of the baby.
8. Tilapia: Can pregnant women eat Tilapia? Tilapia is again a low mercury fish. It has a lot of amino acids and proteins. Tilapia is aids baby’s development.
9. Cod Fish: Is Cod fish safe while pregnant? If you have Cod fish it lowers the chances of getting Alzheimer’s, Hypertension and other heart diseases. Imagine what wonders will it work if you give it to your baby even before she or he is born. Cod liver oil has many benefits for everybody. Eating Cod fish is better than taking cod liver oil tablets.
10. Catfish: Can you eat Catfish when pregnant? Catfish provides a complete set of proteins that is it has all the amino acids. It is low in bad cholesterol and has essential fatty acids like Omega-3 fatty acids, Omega-6 fatty acids, etc. All this is like an elixir for you and your little one. Also, the catfish is very low in calories, so it benefits you even more.
11. Anchovies: Can pregnant women eat Anchovies? Yes, you can and you must. Anchovies are rich in iron. Iron is one of the essential minerals needed by you. Iron is vital for oxygen transport and also for blood formation. The tiny Anchovies are like iron tablets and will substitute for your folic acid tablets! This will prevent your baby from depending wholly on artificial supplements.
12. Tuna: Can you eat Tuna while pregnant? Tuna needs a lot of caution while consuming it during pregnancy. Every variety has an entirely different set of nutritional benefits. But for selecting the type of fish a pregnant woman can eat we have to focus on the mercury content. Low mercury Tuna has endless benefits like helping fight postpartum (post-pregnancy) depression. It boosts the immune system of your baby, makes firm cell membranes, and prevents infections. Tuna improves circulation of blood, reduces the risk of heart diseases. 
13. Oysters: Can you eat Oysters while pregnant? Oysters are rich in essential fatty acids. Oyster sauce might not be recommendable for a pregnant woman. But oysters should be in your pregnancy seafood list. Oysters have a lot of minerals like zinc, potassium, phosphorus, iron, etc. The problem with Oysters is that during their growth they absorb a lot from the surroundings. So you need to get oysters from a shop that sells a variety that is free from such toxins.
14. Scallops: Are Scallops safe during pregnancy? Scallops are one of the tastiest shell fishes and even an excellent dietary source of proteins. A pregnant woman must have scallops as they are abundant in good cholesterol and essential fatty acids. They are good for your baby and you in every aspect.

List of fish to avoid during pregnancy

The answer to “What fish should I avoid while pregnant?” is here:

1. Sword Fish: Sword fish is a carnivorous fish that eats smaller fishes. Mercury accumulates, and hence Sword fish is not safe during pregnancy.
2. Shark: Shark is a predator fish that comes at a higher level in the food web. The levels of mercury are alarming. Avoid eating shark till you’ve your baby inside.
3. Tile Fish: Tile fish is an oily fish and has the risk of having polychlorinated biphenyls and other harmful toxic heavy metals. Hence it is better to avoid having Tile Fish during pregnancy.
4. White Albacore (Tuna): Some varieties of Tuna such as the White Albacore have a slightly higher content of mercury. So avoid White Albacore during pregnancy. It is permissible to eat in amounts less than 6 ounces a week.
5. Raw or under-cooked Fish: Raw fishes and canned fishes or sushi are more harmful than cooked seafood. Canned Tuna has another issue of being prone to food spoilage by toxic cold-loving bacteria. The canning process if gone wrong allows bacteria to form food poisons which can not only lead to miscarriage but can even be lethal.
   

Uncooked fish might have parasites like tapeworm. If consumed it will cause immense damage and affect your little one adversely. Under-cooked fish has a different case but leads to the same results. Under cooked fish comes to a temperature where it becomes the perfect site for fungal germination.

How much seafood is safe for a pregnant woman?

FDA and EPA recommend a pregnant woman to have around 8-12 ounce of fish a week. This means around every alternate day a pregnant woman must have fish for baby’s health and development.

How to prevent damage by eating seafood during pregnancy?

• Cook seafood at higher cooking temperature, to make it safe to eat during pregnancy.
• Always buy fish that has bright shiny eyes and firm to touch.
• It should be fresh and not from cold storage.
• The scales should be intact, and not fragile at all. Try getting as fresh as possible from the market, just before you’ve to eat them.

Just keep these points in mind about seafood during pregnancy and reap the benefits of fish in your diet!

The post Can I Eat Fish While Pregnant? appeared first on Pregnancy.

Every woman wants to get pregnant as soon as she decides to grow her family. Not being able to get pregnant can be worse of a nightmare. Why am I not getting pregnant is a question we get on a daily basis.

But before you start worrying about infertility in women make sure you are doing the deed right.

There are many resolvable reasons for not getting pregnant. Merely stressing about pregnancy can prevent it.

It is crucial that you eat well and eat right. If you are not nourished, then you may not get pregnant.

Another point is that you may not be having sex at the right time for getting pregnant.

What are the chances of getting pregnant?

A healthy 30-year-old fertile female has 20% chances of getting pregnant every month. 

The chances of getting pregnant are not constant throughout the month.

You are most likely to get pregnant when you have sex near ovulation. 

Ovulation is the time when your ovaries release the egg. It happens on the 14th day of the menstrual cycle. The egg is viable for the next 24 hours.

Now you may wonder how other women get pregnant all the time. It is because the menstrual cycle can fluctuate. 

Ovulation can occur a day early or late. It is best to have sex regularly from three days before to one day after ovulation. 

Sperms can live in the vagina for 3-5 days.

Why am I not getting pregnant?

There are many reasons for not getting pregnant. Here are the most probable causes of not getting pregnant.

1) Being on birth control

If you are taking birth control pills then your chances of getting pregnant reduce. 

Birth control pills do fail. But it’s like you are reducing the probability of becoming pregnant. 

You need to stop using any means of birth control when you decide to get pregnant.

2) Not knowing the fertile window

Most women don’t know when they are fertile — there few signs of ovulation like a change in cervical mucus. 

Your basal body temperature rises on the day of ovulation. Even if you have an irregular menstrual cycle, you can track ovulation. 

Many ovulation kits that can tell you about your fertile window.

3) Fibroids and scars in the uterus

If you had any previous surgery of the uterus, you might have fibroids. 

Endometriosis is a condition when the tissues of uterus invade other organs. 

The bifurcated uterus also prevents pregnancy. It is a cause of infertility in women.

4) Male partner’s infertility

It could be that you are perfectly fine, but your partner has some problem. 

There are many reasons for infertility in men. There are treatable and have many options. 

If you want to have a baby, you can opt for ART to artificially help you. 

IVF treatment, Intracytoplasmic injection and artificial insemination can help overcome male infertility. 

There could be many reasons for male infertility like low sperm count or erectile dysfunction.

5) Stress

Many things affect your fertility. Stress and your environment are two mostly ignored ones. 

Any stress experienced by you or male partner can cause infertility. 

It is why you are not getting pregnant. Stress changes the hormone cycle in your body affecting your fertility.

6) Smoking, alcohol, and drugs

Smoking reduces the fertility in women and men. It can reduce the sperm count to nil. 

Alcohol also causes problems in getting pregnant. The dose of alcohol is essential when you decide to consume it. 

Drugs affect fertility and pregnancy. 

If you are not getting pregnant, you need to cut down these three.

Some tips for getting pregnant

1. Eat Omega 3 fatty acid rich diet. They are responsible for forming the hormones required for getting pregnant. Food rich in omega 3 fatty acids are Mackerel, Salmon, Anchovies, and Caviar. Baby takes up a major share of Omega 3 fatty acids from you. You need to have it in abundance during pregnancy as well.
2. You don’t need to have sex every day or multiple times a day. But during ovulation, it is better to have sex often. When you have sex without will chances of getting pregnant may fall. You need to be confident and stress-free.
3. Cut down your caffeine. Caffeine is also a stimulant and diuretic drug. You have to limit smoking, alcohol, and drugs when you are not getting pregnant.
4. Exercise and stay fit. Any illness can prevent you from getting pregnant. It is essential that you stay healthy.
5. Maintenance of stable body weight is crucial for getting pregnant. Women who undergo a lot of weight fluctuations have difficulty in getting pregnant.
6. Get any diseases like PCOD or fibroids tested and treated. Do not miss any follow-up appointments. Also get treatment for sexually transmitted infections. STDs can affect your chances of getting pregnant.
7. Sleep well and on time. A regular sleeping pattern is essential for maintaining fertility.
8. Don’t use sex toys and sperm jellies. They are reasons for not getting pregnant.

Not getting pregnant doesn’t make a woman any less of it. 

It is essential to wait for the right time patiently. Having a healthy life and relationship are the first steps that one needs to take before trying to become a mother. 

A baby needs both mother and father equally. 

No pregnancy can save marriages, they both are responsibilities at an individual level.

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