by Dr Neelima Mantri | Dec 26, 2022 | Blog, Gynecologist
Pregnancy had to be the most exhaustive phase that every woman goes through in their life. Especially during the first 12 weeks and last 6, the changes brought by the body will trigger tiredness that was never felt before.
It is natural to assume that something is wrong when they feel extremely tired. So naturally, tiredness and fatigue are the most common complaints we receive at our clinic in Mumbai. And we have created this blog to address the common concerns and douse the fear of fire in pregnant women. Read on to know complete information about fatigue during pregnancy – its causes and way to mitigate and fight it.
What causes fatigue and exhaustion during pregnancy?
While fatigue is common during the entirety of the pregnancy, it is more prominent during the first and third trimesters and mild during the second trimester. The cause of exhaustion and fatigue is as follows:
- Causes for fatigue during the first trimester of pregnancy: During the first trimester, the body increases the production of blood to ensure the transportation of more nutrients to the baby. Blood sugars and blood pressure lower, and progesterone levels increase too. These hormonal, physiological, physical and emotional changes do dissipate energy resulting in tiredness and fatigue.
- Causes for fatigue during the first trimester of pregnancy: The body gets used to the above changes and as a result, one can notice an improvement in energy levels. In the majority of cases, this trimester is far better than the first and it is even considered a happy trimester since the third trimester causes a decline in energy levels. “Increased tiredness as compared to the first trimester is rare in the second trimester. If that is the case there could be an inherent reason which must be investigated as soon as possible”, says the best gynaecologist in Mumbai, Dr Neelima Mantri.
- Causes for fatigue during the first trimester of pregnancy: Extra weight, frequent urination, and troubled sleep are three major reasons for exhaustion for women in the third trimester. They are at their weakest-self carrying extra weight with inadequate rest resulting in tiredness and fatigue which could be detrimental if not treated, according to female gynaecologist Dr Neelima Mantri.
How to fight fatigue and tiredness during pregnancy?
Every pregnant woman experiences increase tiredness and fatigue during pregnancy. But not every one of them adheres to best practices to mitigate them. If you are a pregnant woman we would suggest to below practices to improve your energy levels and cut down the fatigue.
Rest: The most common advice that is given but not followed. Get to bed earlier, take naps in the afternoon, and avoid fluid just before bed to avoid trips to the washroom. Always prioritise sleep over any other activity to ensure adequate recovery.
Make a new schedule to prioritise rest: The changes brought by the pregnancy may not align with the previous schedule. So realign your schedule by cutting down the hours at work to accommodate naps, food and sleep.
Well-balanced diet: Pregnancy dissipates so much energy in women that they need refeeds to power up again. Ensure a well-balanced diet that perfectly combines all the essential nutrients suggested by the gynaecologist.
If you have already adhered red to the above guidelines but are still feeling tired then many fixes could solve this exhaustion. Dr Neelima Mantri is the leading gynaecologist in Mumbai who can help you improve your rest, recovery, and energy while reducing your fatigue and exhaustion. You can contact her here: https://www.drneelimamantri.com/
by Dr Neelima Mantri | Dec 13, 2022 | Blog, Female Gynaecologist
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/
by Dr Neelima Mantri | Nov 28, 2022 | Blog, Female Gynaecologist
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:
- The intense pain stretches for 3 or more 3 days.
- Pain doesn’t improve even with pain-relief medication.
- 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/
by Dr Neelima Mantri | Nov 15, 2022 | Blog, Female Gynaecologist
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.
by Dr Neelima Mantri | Oct 21, 2022 | Blog, Women Health Issues
Vaginal Agenesis is a congenital abnormality where the foetus is born with an underdeveloped vagina. Yes, that can happen in rare cases, say 1 out of 5000. Like a few foetuses are born with an underdeveloped spine, arms, legs or kidneys, a few are born with an underdeveloped vagina which is then repaired by specialist surgeons.
What symptoms identify this condition, what causes this condition and how is it treated? With the inputs from the top gynaecologist in Mumbai Dr Neelima Mantri, we have answered the most commonly asked question about Vaginal Agenesis. Read on to know the answers:
What is Vaginal Agenesis?
As said above Vaginal Agenesis is a congenital abnormality where the vagina of the foetus may not fully develop to be a normal one. While some girls have shorter vaginas, others have remnant ones or even lack one completely.
“More often than not this condition develops in tandem with other abnormalities of the reproductive system like underdeveloped fallopian tubes, or uterus, even spine and kidney growth problems too”, says the best lady gynaecologist in Mumbai, Dr Neelima Mantri.
Vaginal Agenesis Symptoms:
In some cases, the outer organs appear normal and hence this condition may not be identified at birth in some cases. So unable to have menstruation is only the symptom in such cases that may signal Vaginal Agenesis. This condition is called Amenorrhea.
“In a few other cases, menstrual blood is pooled inside and stuck due to lack of exit. This condition is called Amenorrhea and it causes abdominal pain and cramping too. Pain during sex is another symptom which is caused due to shorted vagina. Divot or dimple in place of the vagina is another symptom which is often rare in my practice.” says gynaecologist in Mumbai Dr Neelima Mantri.
What causes Vaginal Agenesis?
Around the first 20 weeks of pregnancy is when the development of the female reproductive system happens and healthcare researchers are yet to pinpoint the reason why. The evidence in cases suggests exposure to toxic substances during pregnancy or environmental factors to be the leading cause of this condition. Genetic factors play a part in a few cases too.
How is Vaginal Agenesis treated?
In the majority of cases, this condition is only diagnosed in the teenage years. A physical exam, ultrasound and MRI followed by a blood test and DNA test (for chromosomal abnormalities) are performed to identify and build the plan of treatment for Vaginal Agenesis.
Self-dilation of the vagina: Self-dilation is recommended in cases of the vaginal dimple. A hard and smooth tampon-shaped plastic tube is used to slowly dilate the vagina with pressure for 15-20 minutes a day until the vaginal attains a normal shape. A regular time frame for this non-surgical standard procedure is 18-24 months
Vaginoplasty: In case the vaginal dilation is not suitable, Vaginoplasty is considered by the gynaecologist to construct the vaginal canal. It is created using skin from the insides of the cheek or bowel along with a placeholder to make it stay intact in shape. It may take a month for the recovery after the surgery post which people can enjoy their sex life without any problem. However every case is different as is their anatomy, so only a gynaecologist can adequately provide the right details about the efficiency and timeframe of the condition. If you are in Mumbai and are looking for more information about Vaginal Agenesis, then Dr Neelima Mantri is the best gynaecologist in Mumbai who can help you. Contact her here:
by Dr Neelima Mantri | Oct 19, 2022 | Blog, Pregnancy Complications
In our previous blog – Fibroids in Pregnancy What You Should Know? , we have mentioned how fibroid can lead to placental abruption during pregnancy. And we have received quite a few questions on the topic of placental abruption. To make it easy for everyone we have gathered all the answers from the best gynaecologist in Mumbai Dr Neelima Mantri, read on to know them.
What is Placental Abruption?
A fertilised egg divides into two components – an embryo and a placenta. While the embryo grows the baby, the placenta is the support system that helps its growth. By attaching itself to the inside wall of the uterus, the placenta provides oxygen and nutrients to the baby and removes waste products from the baby’s blood using the umbilical cord.
“To put it simply – the placenta is a temporary organ that absorbs nutrients and oxygen from the mother and transports them to the baby using the umbilical cord”, says the best obstetrician in Mumbai, Dr Neelima Mantri
In rare cases, the placenta may peel away partially or completely from the inner wall of the uterus before delivery leading to placental abruption. This disconnection can deprive the baby of essential nutrients and oxygen causing heavy vaginal bleeding and ultimately leading to early delivery.
What causes Placental Abruption?
The cause of Placental Abruption is not certain. It mostly commonly occurs in cases of trauma or injury to the abdomen form fall or accidents. Sudden loss of fluid that surrounds the baby also may result in Placental Abruption.
When does Placental Abruption occur?
“Placental Abruption is an uncommon condition that occurs in 1% of pregnant women in India. It can happen to anyone after 20 weeks of pregnancy but it is most probable to occur in the third trimester”, says a female gynaecologist in Mumbai Dr Neelima Mantri.
Is Placental Abruption harmful to the baby?
Placental Abruption is a serious condition which can be life threatening to both the baby and the mother. It is known to cause low birth weight, premature birth, growth problems, injury to the brain, and stillbirth of the baby. As for the mother, it can lead to blood loss, blood clotting problems, Haemorrhage, and even kidney failure.
In short, Placental Abruption is a serious medical condition that needs immediate treatment as soon as symptoms show up.
Symptoms of Placenta Abruption:
Placental Abruption is usually sudden but there are a few symptoms that can act as signs of this condition:
- On-off vaginal bleeding
- Low amniotic fluid
- Developmental problems of baby
- Heart rate problems of baby
- Pain in the back or belly
- Pain or tenderness due to quickly repeated uterus contractions.
How is Placental Abruption treated?
A separated placenta cannot be repaired or reconnected. Keeping this in mind, treatment for Placenta Abruption is performed based on the severity of the abruption, blood loss, severity of abruption, and the signs of foetus distress.
If the Placental Abruption is mild and it is too soon for the baby to be born, the mother is closely monitored until 34 weeks of pregnancy with the help of medications. In case the abruption is severe the health of the foetus is at risk immediate delivery is recommended. If a mild abruption is identified when the foetus is near the full term, the mother is closely monitored for vaginal delivery. In case of severe abruption, an emergency caesarean section is recommended.
Got more questions about Placental Abruption, you can directly write to us here. In case you live in and around Mumbai you can directly book an appointment with Dr Neelima Mantri here: https://www.drneelimamantri.com/
