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How to Tackle Indigestion & Heartburn in Pregnancy?

How to Tackle Indigestion & Heartburn in Pregnancy?

First things first, heartburn has nothing to do with the heart. It is characterized by a burning feeling in the chest and throat which intensifies after eating when bending over or lying down.

It is a discomfort that is common which most people can manage with the right medications. But in some cases, it can be a frequent condition that interferes with daily routine, even tougher in the case of pregnant women as it can impact her and the offspring in multiple ways if not treated.

“Unfortunately, heartburn or indigestion is more frequent during pregnancy due to a variety of reasons”, says Dr Neelima Mantri, the top gynaecologist in Mumbai. So what causes heartburn during pregnancy and how to tackle it efficiently? Read on to know the answers:

What causes heartburn?

Heartburn occurs when the stomach acid flows back to the oesophagus – a tube that carries the food from the throat to the stomach. This can lead to a burning sensation in the chest accompanied by a mild sore sensation in the mouth. The flow back of acid is called acid reflux and the burning sensation that triggers it is called heartburn (again, it has nothing to do with the heart)

It is quite normal when it happens occasionally but in pregnant women, heartburn can frequently happen in 2 and 3 semesters. “More than 50% of the women in 3rd-semester experience frequent heartburn and acid reflux”, says a gynaecologist in Mumbai Dr Neelima Mantri.

Symptoms of heartburn during pregnancy:

Burning sensation in the chest
Frequent burps
Bring up of food or vomiting
Frequent coughs & sore throat
Bloating and feeling filled-up

So why does a pregnant woman have to suffer from frequent heartburn and acid reflux? Here’s why:

Heartburn during pregnancy is common and it happens due to the following reasons:

Enlargement of Uterus: Heartburn is more common during the third semester because that is when the baby grows more and the uterus enlarges to the point that it pushes the stomach. And this can trigger acid reflux.

Change in hormonal levels: The hormonal changes during pregnancy slow down digestion which can cause bloating and cause heartburn.

Relaxation of Sphincter due to Progesterone: The pregnancy hormone i.e. progesterone relaxes the Sphincter which can trigger the flow back of the acid in the stomach.

How to tackle heartburn and acid reflux during pregnancy?

Pregnant women are at more risk of suffering from heartburn but there are a few factors that can trigger them, such as:

Eating high-fat foods
Eating caffeinated drinks or chocolates
Eating big meals in a short time
High physical activity after eating
Anxiety and as usual hormone surges

So one can easily prevent heartburn during pregnancy by eating smaller meals, avoiding physical activities, and sudden movements, ensuring relaxed and stress-free environments and avoiding the above foods. Maintaining a right sleeping schedule, avoiding caffeine, and sleeping on the left side can help too. For more information on reducing the heartburn and acid reflux during pregnancy, you can contact a lady gynaecologist in Mumbai Dr Neelima Mantri here: https://www.drneelimamantri.com/

Dysmenorrhea Causes Symptoms & Treatment

Dysmenorrhea Causes Symptoms & Treatment

That throbbing pain in the lower abdomen, legs and thighs during menstruation could be the most common pain that is experienced by almost all women in the world. As it is considered common pain, it is silently bore no matter how hard it tends to get.

Pain during menstruation or even sex is common but it doesn’t have to be normal. Consistently intense pains are abnormal and Dysmenorrhea is a medical condition that is associated with this kind of abnormal cramps. “Women that we usually treat for Dysmenorrhea are unaware of the condition. They often assume it is a common pain and silently put up with it until it becomes unbearable to perform regular activities”, says a gynaecologist in Mumbai, Dr Neelima Mantri.

So what is Dysmenorrhea, and what are its causes and treatment options? Here is what a lady gynaecologist in Mumbai Dr Neelima Mantri had to say:

What is Dysmenorrhea?

In general painful periods are often termed Dysmenorrhea. This condition causes severe and frequent cramps in the pelvic area, and pain in the lower back, legs and stomach during menstruation of women. All these symptoms are commonly experienced by every woman during the period, so how is Dysmenorrhea different from common symptoms? Simple, when the pain is abnormal. And here’s when the pain is abnormal:

Dysmenorrhea Symptoms:

  1. The intense pain stretches for 3 or more 3 days.
  2. Pain doesn’t improve even with pain-relief medication.
  3. The pain and cramps are so severe that they start to interfere with your day-to-day functions.

In addition to the above, the other symptoms of Dysmenorrhea include headaches, sickness, and digestive problems like constipation, sore breasts, and swollen abdomen.

Dysmenorrhea Causes:

There are two types of Dysmenorrhea – Primary & Secondary Dysmenorrhea each with its causes.Primary dysmenorrhea is caused due to chemical imbalance problems in the female body which causes abnormal contractions of the uterus.

Secondary Dysmenorrhea is caused by physical changes which are a result of inherent reproductive problems like endometriosis, abnormal pregnancy, uterine fibroids, tumours, infection, or even polyps in the pelvic cavity.

So who is more prone to Dysmenorrhea?

Women diagnosed with the reproductive problems listed above are prone to Dysmenorrhea. In addition to it, risk factors that increase the risk of Dysmenorrhea are smoking alcohol consumption, obesity, and early menstruation.

Treatment for Dysmenorrhea in Mumbai:

MRI, Ultrasound, Laparoscopy, & Hysteroscopy are performed to diagnose Dysmenorrhea. Upon confirmation, a treatment plan is crafted the by considering the age, severity of the symptoms, expectations and other preferences.

In the case of primary Dysmenorrhea, the treatment options include vitamin supplements, medications, oral contraceptives, hormonal treatments, abdominal massages, and regular exercise. In the case of secondary Dysmenorrhea, the appropriate cause is identified and treated to reduce the symptoms. This may include medical procedures like hysterectomy, endometrial ablation and endometrial resection.

Dysmenorrhea: When to see the doctor?

Women are requested to consult a gynaecologist when the period pain affects their ability to perform their day-to-day activities and regular treatments fail to cut down the period pain. If you are in Mumbai you can consult Gynaecologist Dr Neelima Mantri here: https://www.drneelimamantri.com/

Vulvitis (Vulvar Itching) Causes Symptoms & Treatment

Vulvitis (Vulvar Itching) Causes Symptoms & Treatment

Vulvitis is one of the most common inflammatory conditions of female genitals that is experienced by women all around the world. It is similar to vaginitis that we talked about earlier – but with a minor difference.

While vaginitis is inflame the insides of the vagina, Vulvitis refers to inflammation of the outer part of this reproductive organ. Though it is a common condition sometimes it can aggravate and cause persistent irritation, pain and swelling for several days at a stretch.

We often get advanced cases of the Vulvitis which would be easily solved in days had they approached us earlier. Since most women overlook this condition as common itching, it tends to show up severe symptoms. So with the inputs from the top gynaecologist in Mumbai, Dr Neelima Mantri, we provide complete details about the symptoms, causes and options for Vulvitis treatment in Mumbai. Read on:

What is Vulvitis? What causes it?

The area outside the vagina is called the vulva and it includes a vaginal opening, labia majora, labia minora and clitoris. This entire area is made up of soft skin and tends to be moist and warm all the time which makes it vulnerable to infections, allergies, irritations and skin disorders – everything leading up to Vulvitis. In addition, this contact this stool or urine may also result in chronic Vulvitis.

What are the symptoms of Vulvitis?

Soreness, redness, itching and irritation are the general symptoms of Vulvitis. In some cases, clear, fluid-filled blisters, small cracks on the skin of the vulva, thick wheatish scaly patches, redness and swelling on the inner labia can also happen.

Diagnosis for Vulvitis in Mumbai:

Diagnosis of Vulvitis starts with a pelvic exam followed by complete monitoring of medical history in the women. Blood tests, urine tests and tests for sexually transmitted diseases are common tests that are performed during the diagnosis. In addition to this pap tests are performed to test the cell’s microscopic levels to detect cancerous conditions.

Treatment for Vulvitis in Mumbai:

Treatment for Vulvitis depends on the cause of inflammation. Practicing proper hygiene of the vulva and protecting the vulva from irritants is the basic step that is suggested by every healthcare provider. Treatment for Vulvitis is provided based on the current condition of the patient, cause and severity of the Vulvitis, tolerance for medical conditions and current symptoms.

Anti-fungal, estrogen or hydrocortisone creams are provided to relieve the symptoms. Along with this care must be taken to avoid using products that cause vulvar irritation – loose fitting clothes, unscented products, and white undergarments for air circulation or often recommended. Along with this, a sitz bath can be hugely beneficial when it comes to relieving the symptoms of Vulvitis.

How to prevent Vulvitis?

“Following a set of good habits with respect to vulva hygiene can cut down the risk of Vulvitis significantly”, says the best gynaecologist in Mumbai Dr Neelima Mantri. She recommends preferring mild unscented soaps, breathable and dry loose fitting cotton underwear and refraining from self-diagnosis and medication as three simple steps to avoid Vulvitis.

Uterine Polyps Symptoms and Causes

Uterine Polyps Symptoms and Causes

Uterine polyps as the name suggest are the soft fleshy overgrowth of uterine cells which tend to extend into the uterine cavity. Also called endometrial polyps these polyps can be benign or cancerous, single or multiple, and can range in sizes from millimetres to centimetres (golf-ball size). These polyps are thatched to the uterus with a stalk-like structure and in rare cases, they can even slip into the vagina too.

“Though uterine polyps are usually associated with women going through menopause they can also occur in young women causing infertility,” says lady gynaecologist in Mumbai Dr Neelima Mantri. In the majority of cases, uterine polyps tend to be the reason for pregnancy and other fertility problems

What causes uterine polyps and what are the uterine polyps’ treatment options in Mumbai? Read on to the answers from gynaecologist Dr Neelima Mantri:

Uterine Polyps Symptoms:

The overgrowth of the tissues will interfere with the regular reproductive function of women. Irregular menstrual periods, bleeding between periods, abnormal blood flow during menstruation, vaginal bleeding and spotting and infertility are some of the common symptoms.

Out of all the symptoms mentioned, irregular menstrual periods are the most common as far as polyps are concerned. Bleeding after menopause or even during sexual intercourse are other unique symptoms that can even show up due to uterine polyps. In a few cases, with the above symptoms, women may even be unable to conceive due to uterine polyps even without showing up any of the symptoms mentioned above.

What causes Uterine Polyps?

The exact cause of uterine polyps is not yet certain. High oestrogen levels and obesity are the three strong risk factors identified by gynaecologists. Even age is also strongly correlated with the incidence of polyps – it is more likely to strike in women between 40 to 50 years of age. As menopause reduces the oestrogen levels in women and risk of uterine polyps is less. But even post-menopausal women undergoing tamoxifen therapy are also at greater risk of developing uterine polyps.

Treatment for Uterine Polyps in Mumbai:

Not all polyps are symptomatic. Some may sit silently without actually impacting a woman’s reproductive function and in this case, a gynaecologist usually adheres to wait and see approach to come up with a treatment plan.

The most common treatment for uterine polyps is their surgical removal obviously. Hysterectomy is a non-invasive surgical procedure that is used to remove uterine polyps with or without administering general anaesthesia. In a few cases, even after the removal of polyps, there is a risk of regrowth and a gynaecologist will come up with the right medical treatment option to mitigate the risk. Endometrial ablation is another treatment option where the endometrial lining is destroyed to remove the polyps and mitigate their regrowth. However, this is only suggested to elder women who decide to not have children in the future. If you are in Mumbai and are looking for uterine polyps’ treatment in Mumbai, Dr Neelima Mantri is the best lady gynaecologist in Mumbai who can help you. You can contact her here: https://www.drneelimamantri.com/

Endometrial Ablation Procedure & Risks Recovery

Endometrial Ablation Procedure & Risks Recovery

Endometrial ablation is one of the most popular solutions recommended for treating abnormal bleeding. While it effectively reduces abnormal bleeding, it is not recommended for every woman. Know more about this procedure’s limitations, risks, benefits and recovery from the best lady gynaecologist in Mumbai Dr Neelima Mantri in this blog today:

What is Endometrial Ablation?

Endometrial Ablation is the procedure of scraping a thin layer of the uterus to reduce the abnormal menstrual flow of a woman.

Every month during the date of menstruation, the inner layer of the uterus (endometrium) thickens to prepare the uterus for conception. When the egg doesn’t receive the sperm, the hardened wall sheds and bleeds every month (period bleeding). In a few cases, the bleeding can be abnormal with sharp pain stretching for an extended period. Endometrial Ablation is the most common procedure that is performed to reduce the intensity of the blood flow and pain.

When is the Endometrial Ablation recommended by a gynaecologist?

Heavy and abnormal bleeding is when the gynaecologist actively considers Endometrial Ablation. Periods are considered heavy and abnormal if they last for more than 7 days, develop a risk for anaemia, and interfere with daily routine. Along with the incidence of abnormal bleeding, this procedure is requested only when:

  1. The woman is sure she doesn’t need pregnancy and is willing to use birth control to avoid the risk of pregnancy and subsequent miscarriage.
  2. There are no other possible causes of abnormal bleeding like thyroid, cancer or any other congenital conditions.

How is Endometrial Ablation performed?

Unlike other surgical procedures, endometrial ablation is a simple procedure that will not need incisions or stitches. “It is relatively a short and simple procedure where the woman can leave home on the same day. Radio frequency, heat, freezing, heated balloon, miniature electricity – a variety of procedures are used to remove the lining.” says the best gynaecologist in Mumbai Dr Neelima Mantri.

Who is not suited for Endometrial Ablation Surgery?

As the lining of the endometrium is destroyed, the ablation procedure severely reduces the ability to get pregnant. In addition to this, an ablation procedure is not recommended when the woman:

  • Is younger than 40 years of age
  • Is post-menopause
  • Had a recent pregnancy
  • Diagnosed with pelvic inflammatory diseases
  • Suffers cervical or vaginal infections, and endometrial cancer.

Risks & recovery after Endometrial Ablation Treatment:

Endometrial ablation is the most simple and most successful way of treating the abnormal bleeding condition provided the conditions are met. Only in very rare cases do women experience side effects chills, fever, trouble peeing, mild cramps, and strong-smelling fluid discharge – temporarily.

On average it takes 2 days for recovery after the Endometrial Ablation treatment with the right pain relief medication.

After the treatment, the woman is advised to regularly use birth control such as tubal ligation or IUI device without which one suffers risk of pregnancy or miscarriage and maternal risk. The gynaecologist must be consulted regarding the exercise regimen, sexual practices and usage of tampons post-surgery. If you are in Mumbai and are looking for more information about Endometrial Ablation, Dr Neelima Mantri is one of the best endometrial ablation doctors in Mumbai who can help you. Contact her here: https://www.drneelimamantri.com/

 

Pelvic Floor Exercises During Pregnancy | Dr Neelima Mantri

Pelvic Floor Exercises During Pregnancy | Dr Neelima Mantri

Pregnancy, as we all know is the most challenging journey a woman gets to experience in her life. The sheer amount of physical and mental changes bring on a lot of new problems in due course. The back pains, cramps, heart burns, indigestion and the list go on and on. Of all the problems, the final act of hard labour is the most aggravating of the lot.

Fortunately, there are pelvic floor exercises that can also help you give shorter labour and also accelerate your post-birth recovery. Millions of women all around the world work have benefitted by ingesting them into their daily routine. With the input of the best gynaecologist in Mumbai Dr Neelima Mantri, we give a short intro to these pelvic exercises in this blog here. Read on to know:

What is the Pelvic Floor?

This Pelvic Floor is a group of muscles that bind together to form a base hammock that supports your internal organs: The Bladder, Uterus, Rectum and Vagina (in the case of women). This Pelvic floor is responsible for your Pee and Poo and importantly controls their outflow.

Needless to say, this Pelvic Floor also plays a huge part in amplifying your sexual pleasure during the Orgasm. But the most important for the moment is its ability to stretch enormously which is of real help in letting the baby out and restoring everything to its normal shape. But the Pregnancy part changes a bit or two in the process. The lack of exercise regimen compounded by the growing weight of your baby in the uterus wreaks these Pelvic Floor Muscles weakening them in due course.

Consequently, these Pelvic Floor muscles are at their weakest when you need them the most!

How to Strengthen your Pelvic Floor?

It takes a lot of strength to push your baby through the Pelvis and you will have to count on your Pelvic Muscles to help you sail through. And all these muscles need a little help from your side to regain their strength for you. And pelvic exercise is how you strengthen them. “They are simple, easier to learn and can be done anywhere. If you decide to stick to one exercise during the pregnancy period, stick to this magic set.” says a lady gynaecologist in Mumbai Dr Neelima Mantri

Namely, there is three type of pelvic floor exercise – Pelvic floor relaxations, Endurance contractions & Quick flick contraction and each of these exercises can be performed anywhere anytime. Just identify the right muscles and perform three sets of pelvic – start slow and be consistent. Our next blog will be dedicated to a depth exercise guide pelvic floor, you can find it here.

However, anything you try during your Pregnancy should be recommended by qualified gynaecologists and health professionals. Dr Neelima Mantri is the best gynaecologist in Mumbai who has helped hundreds of pregnant women simplify their pregnancy journey with expert pre-natal and post-natal care. She can perfectly monitor your health and guide you towards your prenatal journey with the right exercise plan that can help you pelvic strength for a smooth labour. You can contact me here: https://www.drneelimamantri.com/