Ovulation and the Safe Period

Ovulation refers to the rupture of the ripened follicle in the ovary to discharge the egg ready for fertilisation at middle of the menstrual cycle. For example in a 28-day cycle, ovulation occurs on the 14th day. Variations in the timing are not uncommon and it can range from the ninth day to the 16th… [ Continue Reading ]

Symptoms of Pregnancy

You are feeling giddy and nauseus. Your menstrual cycle has been delayed. Things don’t seem quite right. You might be pregnant. Your gynaecologist will, of course, give an official confirmation, but in the meanwhile you could try a home pregnancy test too. Early symptoms Absence of menstrual periods: Although this is one of the first… [ Continue Reading ]

Is it safe to have sex during pregnancy?

Rini had an arranged marriage just two months ago. Even before she could get to know her husband, she realised she was pregnant. And everyone she met had a little bit of advice for her. One of her friends told her intercourse could cause abortion in early pregnancy. So, every time her husband came close… [ Continue Reading ]

Ultrasound Scans During Pregnancy

An ultrasound scan is done with the help of a sonar device that reveals objects in fluid (amniotic fluid in pregnancy) by using high frequency sound waves, inaudible to the human ear. An ultrasound scan is a non-invasive, painless procedure and usually lasts for about 15 minutes. You will probably be asked to drink few… [ Continue Reading ]

Changes in the Internal Organs during pregnancy

Pregnancy hormones bring about changes to almost every part of your body, both externally and internally. Uterus An average uterus measures seven centimetres in length, five centimetres in width and is over two centimetres thick. At full term, it can measure as much as 38 centimetres in length, 25 centimetres in width and 20 centimetres… [ Continue Reading ]

Amniocentesis for prenatal diagnosis

Reema got married very late. And by the time she was ready for a child, she was 35 years old. Since she was aware of problems that could arise from a late pregnancy, she consulted her gynaecologist about tests she could go through that would assure her that her baby is normal and healthy. One… [ Continue Reading ]

The Period of Pregnancy

The normal period of pregnancy is 280 days (40 weeks) from the first day of the last menstrual period. Throughout pregnancy, the growing fetus is entirely dependent on its mother. The mother’s diet, her general state of health and the amount of physical work she does — all have their effect on the child. Therefore,… [ Continue Reading ]

Care of the Breasts during pregnancy

Soap should not be used on nipples as it removes natural oils. Wear a bra with a good support, usually one size bigger than the usual size. If the nipples are small or retracted, pull them out gently from side to side and from above and below during the second trimester. Small and retracted nipples… [ Continue Reading ]

Maternity Clothes and Shoes

So you’re three months into pregnancy and it’s finally beginning to show. It’s time to step up those changes in your lifestyle that you began when you first came to know. Begin with the clothes. No more tight jeans and figure-hugging churidar kurtas but loose stuff that can accommodate your growing body and give it… [ Continue Reading ]