Posts

Pregnancy and you

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 A normal pregnancy lasts about 40 weeks from the first day of the last menstrual period (LMP) . Out of  40 weeks , the first two weeks' period  is the “getting ready” period , when a female is not actually pregnant , but her  body slowly releases hormones to prepare her uterus  and body for a potential pregnancy.  At the end of the second week , normally on the 14th day of the menstrual cycle, the ovary releases an egg ,this is called ovulation . If sperm fertilises this released egg , zygote is formed and the process to pregnancy starts. Fertilization normally takes place in the fallopian tube.  While in the fallopian tube , the single fertilized cell ( zygote )  , divides into multiple cells over the next few days.  This small cluster of dividing cells, called blastocyst, moves through the fallopian tube to the lining of the uterus. There it implants and starts to grow . If implantation is successful, the body immediately begins produ...

Yoga and us

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  The United Nations passed a resolution in 2014 declaring 21st June as a "World Yoga Day" after the petition by Indian Prime Minister highlighting the importance of Yoga.  Yoga originated as an ancient spiritual practice rooted in Indian philosophy and is now gaining global popularity. It encompasses self-disciplinary practices: physical postures known as asanas, breathing techniques called Pranayama, and meditation known as Dhyana. Studies have shown that these practices are tailored to enhance cardiorespiratory endurance, muscle strength, joint flexibility and mental health. Numerous studies highlight yoga's benefits, particularly in chronic conditions such as arthritis, balance issues, chronic pain, and oncology ; improving functional capacity and quality of life, especially in older individuals and cancer patients. While ongoing studies continue to explore its health benefits, current evidence establishes a positive correlation between yoga and overall well-being. Re...

Let plant be thy medicine

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 Hippocrates said “Let food be thy medicine and medicine be thy food” Although many are convinced of the importance of food in both causing and relieving their problems, but still "food as medicine” philosophy has been largely neglected. It's a well proven fact that food we consume plays a pivotal role not only in nourishing our bodies but also in preventing and treating various conditions. With the growing prevalence of chronic diseases, such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease, the importance of preventive medicine, including a healthy diet, is paramount. Specific nutrients found in natural foods can aid in the body's natural healing processes and support recovery from illness or injury. 1.Peppermint : menthol, an ingredient in peppermint is effective decongestant . Because menthol thins mucus,  loosens phlegm and acts as an expectorant .It is soothing and calming for sore throats (pharyngitis) and dry coughs. It also has antispasmodic qualities. This can ease bloat...

Japan tour

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 Visiting every corner of the world before I die is the dream of my life. I began exploring different parts of India and the globe after crossing fifty years of age. This time, Japan was on the top of my bucket list as my Japanese visa was expiring in November. Witnessing my younger daughter's love for Japanese culture and anime fueled my enthusiasm for the trip. Hence, my husband and I planned a visit to Japan during her summer holidays. We diligently planned our trip a month in advance to make the most of our time and budget. Over the course of ten days, we explored multiple destinations including Tokyo, Mt. Fuji, Nagano, Tateyama Alpine Route, Kyoto, and Osaka. Japan mesmerized me with its beauty, cleanliness, and strict regulations. The simplicity, helpfulness, and honesty of the people left a lasting impression. The government ensures world-class facilities at all public places, catering to the needs of everyone, including children, the elderly, and the disabled. Even the visu...

Assisted reproductive techniques for infertile couple

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The couple , who is unable to conceive naturally after one year of regular intercourse, is labelled as infertile. This couple seeks the help of infertility specialist.  Investigations are done in the couple to find out the reason of infertility . These investigations are targeted towards both male and female partners ( mentioned in my previous blog dated 9th February 2024 )After finding out the reason , reproductive specialist decides for the best treatment option for the couple, out of the available treatment modalities . Various treatment modalities available are - 1.Controlled ovarian hyper stimulation: The female partner is given medicines , starting from the 2nd/3rd day of menses to stimulate  the ovaries for the production of good quality eggs capable of giving pregnancy. The follicular growth is monitored with transvaginal sonography during controlled hyper stimulation and when egg/eggs are around the size of 18-20 mm , trigger with HCG or Decapeptyl is given. Timed int...

On Woman's day 2024 "inspire inclusion"

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 In the rich tapestry of India’s history, women have held revered positions, from swayamvaras to vital roles in yajnas and the celebration of nari Shakti. Despite this legacy, women’s status declined in later Vedic periods, worsened under Mughal and British rule and persists today due to entrenched patriarchy. The shackles of this dragging mindset are needed to be broken for inclusive growth and glorious future . With women constituting half of the population, their participation in economy, education, and politics remains disproportionately low . This inequity is rooted in longstanding discrimination, which often begins even before birth. India has declined on women political empowerment index by 13.5% points, with a decline of women participation in politics from 23.1% in 2019 to 9.1% in 2021. According to National Family Health Survey 5, 23.3% of girls still get married before the legal age. Rural jobs have shifted from women to men as gender roles dictate a position of submis...

Reasons for the infertility

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 If a couple of reproductive age group is unable to conceive after one year of regular intercourse , this couple is labelled as infertile . Both male and female partners are found equally responsible for the infertility.  To conceive naturally, female partner should have atleast one patent functional tube, should have regular ovulation and normal receptive endometrial cavity and male partner should have normal semen parameters with no ejaculation defects .  Whenever the couple visits any infertility specialist , investigations are started after one year of marriage normally , but earlier ie after 6 months , if the age of the female partner is more than 35 years.  Investigations which are normally done - 1.Routine investigations which includes hemogram, RBS,ESR, LFT, RFT , Viral markers both male and female partners 2. Hormonal profile :TFT, S.Prolactin, FSH, LH, AMH etc (as indicated) in female partner and in male if semen parameters abnormal 3.USG pelvis transvag...