Tip:
Highlight text to annotate it
X
Week 15 Welcome to Week15 of the KidandParent pregnancy
show. Did you ever wonder why some of you gobble up ice cubes or develop a sudden affection
towards pickles? Well, it is not a very uncommon thing during pregnancy. In this show we will
talk about food cravings during pregnancy and how to deal with them. We will also discuss
how to protect yourself against infections during pregnancy.
Changes Taking Place in Mother Discuss with your doctor if you are constantly
tired. Anaemia is a common concern in pregnant women. She may take a blood test to check
your body's iron content and prescribe iron tablets if necessary. You can increase your
iron intake by eating more lean meat,dried fruit and leafy green vegetables.
How is Baby Doing ? Your baby's skin is transparent and his veins
can be seen through it. His skeletal system and muscles are continuously developing. He
can make a lot of movements with his head, mouth, arms, wrists, hands, legs and feet.
Can I have an x-ray during pregnancy ? The risk from diagnostic x-rays during pregnancy
is considered to be very small. The rule of thumb though is to take X-rays only when it
is absolutely needed. You MUST inform your doctor about your pregnancy before getting
an x-ray.
Food Cravings During Pregnancy: Many pregnant women develop preferences towards
either sweet, sour or spicy food . Some indulge in mid-night snacks of ice-creams or chocolates,
while some develop a strong aversion to some food items. The hormonal changes during pregnancy
have powerful impact on taste and smell. This is one of the reasons for these sudden food
cravings. You may have also heard of women developing
a liking for non-food items like paper, glue, paint chips during pregnancy. This unhealthy
phenomenon is known as “pica”. Here are some ways to deal with your food cravings.
How to Deal with Food Cravings 1. Some studies have shown that craving for
ice is due to iron deficiency. Take a well balanced diet
2. Dividing up food into six small meals can be helpful to prevent a drop in blood sugar
level that could trigger food cravings. 3. Hunger pangs can aggravate cravings. Do
not stay without food for a long time. 4. Try to substitute unhealthy cravings with
healthy food items. Keep yourself occupied during your free time with activities like
walking,gardening or reading in order to escape from bizarre cravings.
Your baby can make many facial expressions such as squint and frown.
Infections During Pregnancy You may find your body immunity lower than
usual during this time. This is nature's way of protecting your baby from your body's defense
mechanisms. This makes you more prone to various ailments.
1. Mild colds hardly cause stuffiness but a really bad cold does. So if you suffer from
a bad cold, do wash your hands well after you blow your nose and take rest. This helps
in boosting the the immune system. Remember to eat well and do not forget your exercises.
2. Another infection that your doctor may check for is urinary tract infection. If you
do not have one at this stage, you may be lucky enough to not have it throughout the
pregnancy cycle. However if you find any symptoms such as pain during urination, blood in the
urine, discomfort in the abdomen, do contact your doctor.
Tips to Prevent Infections 1. Wash your hands regularly to avoid any
sort of infections. 2. Also avoid raw or uncooked food and unpasteurised
dairy products. 3. Avoid using public toilets.
4. Drink plenty of fluids.
Words of Wisdom Have a smiling week with this nice thought
by Henry David Thoreau Every child begins the world again.
Henry David Thoreau