Tag: Best Gynecologist in greater kailash

The spread of COVID-19 and the consequent lockdown has been having the most significant effect on people already dealing with persisting medical conditions – such as pregnant women. Life for them has taken an especially unprecedented swerve, since visits to the doctor, routine checkups, or sanitizing surfaces for the baby are not ordinary anymore. Schedules have been disrupted, throwing the work-life-mom nexus off-balance.

Higher risk of severe disease, ICU admission

A recent study by the Centers of Disease Control and Prevention, USA, indicates that pregnant women are more likely to get severe COVID-19 and are at a high risk of being hospitalized or admitted in the intensive care unit (ICU) with need for mechanical ventilation when compared to non-pregnant women.

Higher risk of blood clots

Another study, published in the journal Endocrinology, indicated that pregnant women are at a higher risk of developing blood clots due to COVID-19 than non-pregnant women. Now, experts suggest that pregnant women are already 5 times more likely than non-pregnant women to develop a blood clot. This happens due to various changes that occur in the bodies of women during pregnancy; the blood clots more easily to prevent excessive bleeding during labour and not being active during pregnancy may reduce blood flow to legs, further increasing the risk of clotting. SARS-CoV-2, the COVID-19 causing virus, has also shown to cause blood clotting in patients. So, experts suggest that for pregnant women, this risk may increase further.

Placenta damage and vertical transmission

A study including 16 COVID-19 positive pregnant women found that blood clots were formed in the placenta leading to restriction of blood flow to the baby. Even though all the babies in the study were born in good health, it was suggested that pregnant women should be watched more carefully during the pandemic.

In two other cases, children born to COVID-19 positive women were found to have antibodies against the virus and clinical signs of the infection. However, in the latter, it was not exactly apparent if the infant got the disease while in the womb or during delivery.

Preterm birth

Even though no cases of preterm birth or miscarriage has been seen in COVID-19 positive pregnant women, on the basis of the data from SARS and MERS, experts suggest that the novel coronavirus may induce both of these conditions.

Despite all the current evidence, it is worth mentioning that the research is still ongoing and nothing can be said for sure yet. It is highly likely that new things would be found about the virus and its effects on pregnancy in the coming months.

Do pregnant women face greater risk from COVID-19?

So far, the data on COVID-19 does not suggest pregnant women are at higher risk of getting the virus, according to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists. However, as we have seen from the flu they are at greater risk of harm if they get respiratory infections. Pregnancy causes a variety of changes in the body and results in a slight immunocompromised state which can lead to infections causing more injury and damage.

Does having the coronavirus create a greater risk of miscarriage or preterm labor?

Studies have not yet been done to show if having COVID-19 during pregnancy increases the chance of miscarriage, but there is some evidence from other illnesses. During the SARS coronavirus epidemic in 2002-2003, women with the virus were found to have a slightly higher risk of miscarriage, but only those who were severely ill.

Having respiratory viral infections during pregnancy, such as the flu, has been associated with problems like low birth weight and preterm birth. Additionally, having a high fever early in pregnancy may increase the risk of certain birth defects, although the overall occurrence of those defects is still low.

Can a mother with COVID-19 pass the virus to her baby in the womb?

This data is evolving fast. Two papers published March 26 describe finding coronavirus antibodies in three newborns of mothers with COVID-19. That could suggest they had been exposed to the virus in the womb, though the virus itself was not detected in their umbilical cord blood and researchers have raised questions about the type of test used. Researchers in an earlier study found no evidence of COVID-19 in the amniotic fluid or cord blood of six other infants born to infected women. While the research papers include only a small number of cases, a lack of vertical transmission – from the mother to child in utero – would be consistent with what is seen with other common respiratory viral illnesses in pregnancy, such as influenza.

There have been a few reports of newborns as young as a few days old with infection. But in those cases, it is believed that the mother or a family member transmitted the infection to the infant through close contact after delivery. The virus can be transmitted through a cough or sneeze, which could spread virus-laden droplets on a newborn.

How are prenatal checkups changing?

Prenatal care may look different for a while to control the spread of COVID-19 among patients, caregivers and medical staff.

Typically, a pregnant woman has about 14 prenatal visits. That may be reduced by approximately half, with telemedicine playing a larger role. Telemedicine is already endorsed by the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists for patients in rural settings. Now, the pandemic is making virtual care solutions an indispensable tool. Pregnant women are able to do some at-home monitoring, such as for high blood pressure, diabetes and contractions, and telemedicine can even be used by pregnancy consultants, such as endocrinologists and genetic counselors.

Dr.Ruchi Tandon is a reputed Gynecologist practicing in leading hospitals in South Delhi , namely, max and apollo hospitals.

Periods, they’re painful and messy, and unpredictable. But while you might not be looking forward to getting your periods every month, realizing you’re late for no apparent reason is probably a worse feeling. Turns out, the stress caused by a deadly pandemic can do that to your body.

As the world struggles to come to terms with the deadly coronavirus outbreak, our mental health has gone for a toss. Along with that, your menstrual cycles may also have been affected – you’re locked indoors for days at a stretch, your sleep patterns have been adversely affected, you’re probably not eating healthy and your physical activities have been reduced to a minimum.

The COVID-19 pandemic has meant that many governments have advised people to remain inside, most services and facilities are closed and you may be having to contact loved ones over video call. Not knowing when you’ll next see your friends and family is scary and finding the perfect balance between staying up-to-date with the COVID-19 updates without becoming overwhelmed is tough. The World Health Organization has noted that the main psychological impact of COVID-19 to date is elevated rates of stress or anxiety. Being stressed isn’t just a mental experience. Your body reacts to it in certain ways and your menstrual cycle can become longer or shorter and your periods may stop altogether. This isn’t something to be too alarmed about but you should seek out either a close one or a medical professional if you’re struggling to cope. 

A great way to alleviate stress is to exercise. When you’re only allowed outside for emergency groceries and to exercise then the gym is off-limits. That doesn’t mean you can’t get moving at home. However, be mindful of any changes to your weight. According to the NHS, the stress that intense physical activity places on your body can affect the hormones responsible for your periods. Losing too much body fat through intense exercise can also stop you ovulating. Similarly, if you put on a lot of weight your body may produce an excess amount of estrogen which can cause your periods to stop.  

The contraceptive pill is the most form of contraception and if you’re taking hormonal contraception it may be the reason you miss a period. The coil, implant and injection may also change your cycle. Some forms of contraception such as the progesterone-only pill, injection and Mirena coil may stop your periods altogether. 

You shouldn’t worry if you miss a period, especially if you’re on hormonal birth control and going through a stressful period, such as the COVID-19 pandemic. However, ruling out more serious reasons why you might have missed a period will give you peace of mind. Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a condition where your body produces more of the male hormone androgen. As a result of the hormonal imbalance, cysts form on the ovaries. This can cause your periods to become irregular or to stop completely. Other symptoms include weight gain, hair loss from the head and excessive body hair growth.

Another reason you may miss a period is if you’re pregnant. Other early signs of pregnancy are nausea, tender breasts and fatigue. If you think there’s a serious possibility you could be pregnant wait to take a test until a week after your period was due to start. By taking one any sooner you could get a false negative.  

The COVID-19 pandemic and lockdown is stressful and your body will react in different ways to the pressure. It’s hard not to jump to conclusions when you miss a period, especially if your cycle is usually very regular. However, a change in exercise regime, birth control and mental health could all be contributing factors as to why you might miss a period. If you think you are suffering from PCOS or are pregnant you should get in touch with your clinician.

For those of you who haven’t experienced the aforementioned symptoms yet, you’re probably blessed with a more cooperative uterus. But that doesn’t mean you’re not at risk for developing complications in the long run.

To be honest, there is little one can do to reduce stress or stay calm during such tense circumstances, with the threat of a pandemic hanging above our heads like a time bomb. Yet, having a fixed routine for the day, exercising, eating healthy and just trying to take it easy may just trick your bodies into believing things are normal, thereby reducing stress levels as much as possible.

Dr. Ruchi Tandon is a Gynecologist practicing in leading hospitals in South Delhi namely Max Smart superspeciality hospital saket, Apollo hospitals, with over 13 years of experience in handling all kinds of period problems.

Experiencing an unplanned pregnancy can be one of the most challenging times in your life. It can bring about feelings of doubt, stress, and a lot of undue anxiety.

Navigating life through social distancing, closures, quarantines, and constant COVID-19 updates can cause worry, uncertainty, and even panic.

A combination of the two? It can make anyone feel completely overwhelmed, and understandably so. Even if your pregnancy was planned, you may be wondering if you should continue your pregnancy or if abortion or the abortion pill is a safe option for you.

Ultimately, before you make any decisions, coronavirus pandemic or not, the best thing you can do for yourself is to take your time and learn about all your options. At your consultation, you can learn more about side-effects, current precautions, and the long-term impact on your health.

COVID-19 and Abortion

If you are considering an abortion because you are unsure of the future, you are one of the millions of Americans affected financially by COVID-19, or you just are experiencing an unintended pregnancy and looking for a solution – we are here for you.

The abortion pill and surgical abortions always carry risks and side-effects to your health. Right now, elective surgical procedures are cautioned due to the unnecessary risk of spreading the virus. The good news is that time is on your side. We can walk through how the abortion pill works, different types of abortion procedures, and answer any questions you may have.

It’s important to know that as of this date, there has been no evidence of transmission from mom to baby in-utero. Fetuses and babies have remained healthy even in cases where the woman has been diagnosed with COVID-19.
In the first three months of the Covid-19 lockdown, March 25 to June 24, 47% of the estimated 3.9 million abortions that would have likely taken place in India in this span under normal circumstances were possibly compromised. This means that 1.85 million Indian women could not terminate an unwanted pregnancy, concluded a May 2020 modelling study conducted by the Ipas Development Foundation, India, a non-profit dedicated to preventing and managing unwanted pregnancies. Of these 1.85 million women, 80% or 1.5 million compromised abortions were due to the lack of availability of medical abortion drugs at pharmacy stores, the study found.

The estimation builds on data from telephone surveys of 509 public-sector facilities across eight states, 52 private-sector providers, expert opinion of members of the Federation of Obstetric and Gynecological Societies of India, sales data on medical abortion drugs, and trend estimation by pharmaceutical industry experts.

How did the lockdown restrict women’s access to their choice of contraceptives, an essential?

In many ways, factors affecting women’s access to contraceptives during the lockdown were similar to that of abortion:

• Public health facilities were converted to Covid-19 care centers, limiting the availability of sexual and reproductive health [or SRH] services
• Clinical staff occupied with the Covid-19 response may not have had time to provide services or may have lacked personal protective equipment to provide services safely
• Private health facilities were either closed or limited their service provision due to provider unavailability, inadequate protective gear, or lack of mandatory Covid-19 testing arrangements
• Supply chain disruptions limited availability of contraceptives and stock-outs of many contraceptive methods
• Suspension of public transport facilities and curbs on movement restricted women’s mobility.

In addition, some specific reasons include:

• Temporary suspension of the provision of sterilisations and IUCDs in line with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare’s advisory till about mid-May, when revised guidelines were released. This meant that women were unable to use their preferred method of contraception especially if they needed long-term contraception.
• Involvement of ASHA workers in Covid-related surveillance work impacted the community-level distribution of contraceptives.
• Women refrained from visiting health facilities due to fear of Covid-19 exposure.

What are the likely choices for a woman who could not access contraception and discovers her pregnancy during the lockdown?

Possible choices for such a woman include:

• continuation of her pregnancy even though it may be unplanned or unintended;
• attempting an abortion during the lockdown through safe or unsafe methods [there are chances she may attempt medical abortion pills from a chemist outlet or visit a backstreet provider]; or
• waiting until the lockdown restrictions are relaxed and then undergo most probably a second-trimester abortion in a health facility [since it is likely that due to the lockdown she may have crossed the 12-week gestation limit of medical abortion].

For women, what are the long- and short-term impacts of being denied contraceptives?

Women who are unable to access contraceptives are likely to make decisions that may not be as per their preference – whether it be the continuation of their unintended pregnancy or second trimester or unsafe abortion. All of these are likely to have profound consequences for their overall health and well-being, including physical health since the unintended pregnancy may not ensure adequate spacing with the previous childbirth, as well as mental health [beyond the lockdown’s own impact]. Unsafe abortion may lead to morbidities with long-term consequences on health and in the worst case, result in mortality among women.

Dr. Ruchi Tandon, is a reputed Gynecologist, practicing in leading hospitals in South Delhi for last 13 years and has experience in handling all kinds of pregnancies and abortions.

If you don’t have any known condition affecting your menstrual cycle, your period should start within 30 days of the start of your last period.

A period is officially considered late if it’s been more than 30 days since the start of your last period. After six weeks without bleeding, you can consider your late period a missed period.

Several things can delay your period, from basic lifestyle changes to chronic health conditions. Here’s a look at 10 potential culprits.

1. You’re stressed out

Your body’s stress response system is rooted in a part of your brain called the hypothalamus. While you may no longer be running from predators, your body is still hardwired to react as if you were.

When your stress level peaks, your brain tells your endocrine system to flood your body with hormones that switch on your fight-or-flight mode. These hormones suppress functions that aren’t essential to escaping an imminent threat, including those of your reproductive system.

If you’re under a lot of stress, your body can stay in fight-or-flight mode, which can make you temporarily stop ovulating. This lack of ovulation, in turn, can delay your period.

2. You’ve lost or gained weight

Severe changes in body weight can screw with your period’s timing. Extreme increases or decreases in body fat, for example, can lead to a hormonal imbalance that causes your period to come late or stop entirely.

In addition, severe calorie restriction affects the part of your brain that “talks” to your endocrine system, giving instructions for the production of reproductive hormones. When this communication channel is disrupted, hormones can get out of whack.

3. You’ve upped your workout intensity

A strenuous exercise regimen can also cause missed periods. This is most common in those who train for several hours a day. It happens because, whether intentionally or not, you’re burning way more calories than you’re taking in.

When you burn too many calories, your body doesn’t have enough energy to keep all its systems running. This can lead to a hormonal imbalance that throws off your menstrual cycle, leading to missed or late periods.

Periods typically go back to normal as soon as you lessen training intensity or increase your caloric intake.

4. You have PCOS

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a set of symptoms caused by an imbalance of reproductive hormones. People with PCOS don’t ovulate regularly. As a result, your periods may be lighter than normal, arrive at inconsistent times, or disappear altogether.

Other PCOS symptoms can include:

• excess or course facial and body hair
• acne on the face and body
• thinning hair
• weight gain or trouble losing weight
• dark patches of skin, often on the neck creases, groin, and underneath breasts
• skin tags in the armpits or neck
• Infertility

5. You’re using hormonal birth control

Many love the pill because it makes their periods so regular. But it can sometimes have the opposite effect, especially during the first few months of use.

Similarly, when you stop taking the pill, it can take a few months for your cycle to get back to normal. As your body returns to its baseline hormone levels, you may miss your period for a few months.

If you’re using another hormonal birth control method, including an IUD, implant, or shot, you might completely stop getting your period.

6. You’re in perimenopause

Perimenopause is the time leading up to your menopausal transition. It typically starts in your mid- to late 40s. Perimenopause lasts for several years before your period stops completely.

For many, missed periods are the first sign of perimenopause. You may skip a period one month and be back on track for the following three. Or, you may skip your period three months in a row and find that it arrives unexpectedly, often lighter or heavier than you’re used to.

7. You’re in early menopause

Early menopause, also known as premature ovarian failure, happens when your ovaries stop working before you turn 40.

When your ovaries aren’t working the way they should, they don’t produce enough estrogen. As estrogen levels drop to all-time lows, you will begin to experience the symptoms of menopause.

Late or missed periods may be an early sign. You may also experience hot flashes, night sweats, and trouble sleeping.

Other signs of premature ovarian failure include:

• vaginal dryness
• trouble getting pregnant
• decreased sexual desire
• trouble concentrating

8. You have a thyroid condition

Your thyroid is a butterfly-shaped gland in your neck that produces hormones that help regulate many activities in your body, including your menstrual cycle. There are several common thyroid conditions, including hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism.

Both hypothyroidism and hyperthyroidism can affect your menstrual cycle, causing irregularity, but hyperthyroidism is more likely to cause late or missed periods. Sometimes, your period may disappear for several months.

Other symptoms of a thyroid issue include:

• heart palpitations
• appetite changes
• unexplained weight changes
• nervousness or anxiety
• slight hand tremors
• fatigue
• changes to your hair
• trouble sleeping

The bottom line

Your period is generally considered late once it’s been at least 30 days since the start of your last period.

Many things can cause this to happen, from routine lifestyle changes to underlying medical conditions. If your period is regularly late, make an appointment with your Gynecologist to determine the cause.

Dr.Ruchi Tandon is a Gynecologist practicing in leading hospitals in South Delhi , namely Max Smart superspeciality hospital saket, Apollo hospitals , with over 13 years of experience in handling all kinds  of period problems.

As the world puts a united front for the battle against the novel coronavirus, it has given rise to a series of complications, especially for those planning to welcome a newborn in their household. Since there is not enough data to understand the impact of COVID-19 on pregnant women, it is a nerve-wracking time for expectant mothers and families. Mothers across the country are anxious about the delay in hospital visits and the looming fear of coronavirus.

As per a report published by UNICEF, India is expected to witness a big surge in the number of babies born between the months of March to December this year. The report estimates that there will be 24.1 million births in India for the January to December 2020 period. With countrywide lockdown and containment area protocols, there may be huge disruptions in health services for expectant mothers and newborn babies.

Understandably, mothers-to-be and their families have a million questions about safe pregnancy and delivery in the times of coronavirus. We take a look at some of the challenging questions that mother to be are facing during this period of fear and uncertainty.

Can COVID-19 be passed from mother to her newborn baby or fetus?

As of now, no reports are confirming the fact that it can be transmitted from a mother to the baby. As per the WHO, an active virus has not been found in the samples of amniotic fluid and breastmilk. Moreover, the organization also recommends breastfeeding the newborn baby even if the mother is positive with COVID-19. However, it is important to strictly maintain personal hygiene before and after breastfeeding the baby.

Are pregnant women at an increased risk of contracting coronavirus?

As of now, there is not enough data to conclude that expectant mothers are an increased risk of getting severely sick due to COVID-19. However, since a woman’s body goes through a sea of change during pregnancy, it may leave her susceptible to contracting respiratory infections–including COVID-19. So, it is crucial to take the necessary precautions and practice personal hygiene.

Is it safe to give birth at hospital in the current circumstances?

For this decision, it is strongly recommended that you contact your medical care provider (your midwife and/or obstetrician) for further guidance. If you are planning to visit the hospital, it is crucial to wear a respirator and practice social distancing. You should also ask the medical care workers at the hospital all the questions you may have pertaining to coronavirus.

At this time most hospitals have banned the entry of any visitors and the policy varies from hospital to hospital. So, it is important to call up and check the visitor policies beforehand, in case you don’t want to be stuck in the room all alone. It is important to have a clear plan for where you want to give birth and prepare accordingly.

Should visitors be allowed after mother and baby are back home?

It is strongly recommended to not allow visitors home, especially if you live in a containment zone. So, avoid meeting friends and extended family members, as of now. Here are certain precautions you must follow:

1. Wash your hands before touching the newborn
2. If someone at home is sick, keep the baby away and take all necessary precautions
3. Make sure to clean the frequently touched objects, especially around the newborn.

Don’t Fret

Unlike the Severe acute respiratory syndrome or SARS pandemic of 2003-2004, which was also caused by a Coronavirus, pregnant mothers are not in the higher risk bracket from COVID-19. During the SARS outbreak, pregnant women had a fatality risk of 25 per cent compared to 10 per cent of the general population. This is mostly based on a report on 9 pregnant women from Wuhan, China, the epicenter of the COVID-19 outbreak, who had COVID-induced pneumonia. The report, published in the Lancet, said none of the women, who were in their third trimester, developed severe illness, and all their babies were born healthy and Corona virus free. The World Health Organization (WHO) published a report on February 28 of 147 pregnant women, of whom, 64 were confirmed to have coronavirus, 82 were suspected to have the virus and one showed no symptoms. According to the report, only 8% of these women developed a severe condition and only 1% fell critically ill.

Immunity Matters

This does not mean pregnant women can afford to be complacent as the immunity system tends to dip during pregnancy, making the women vulnerable to various infections and diseases, including COVID-19. So, ensure that the diet contains immunity boosting and iron rich food, including fruits, leafy vegetables and nuts. You should also continue to take all the vitamin supplements the doctor may have prescribed.

Avoid These

Apart from following the standard guidelines like avoiding crowds and sick people, frequently washing hands and not touching the face, doctors recommend scrupulously maintaining social distancing, avoiding public areas and wearing a mask whenever you are outdoors.

Be Prepared

Given the stress on the healthcare system, and the possibility of infections from hospitals, you should check whether your doctor or hospital offers tele-medicine facilities. Don’t visit the hospital unless it is absolutely necessary, or for critical checkups. Never go without a clear appointment. Always keep your records handy, and insist that the doctor mail you any advice or medicine prescribed, so that you don’t make mistakes. Make sure you inform your doctor/health provider if you have any symptoms like fever, respiratory symptoms or even diarrhea, or if you have been in contact with someone who has tested positive for COVID-19. Avoid over the counter medications to treat cough and cold.

Deliver With Care

Because of the corona restrictions, many hospitals do not allow more than one visitor during your delivery. So, ensure that your spouse or partner is prepared for that, and have a backup in place in case he cannot be present there. Explain this to other members of your family and friends so that they do not arrive at the hospital. After the delivery, make sure that you have a backup support to take care of you and the baby, particularly if the original support system involved elders of the family.

Dr. Ruchi Tandon is a Gynecologist practicing in leading hospitals in South Delhi namely Max Smart superspeciality hospital saket, Apollo hospitals, with over 13 years clinical experience in handling all kinds of pregnancies safely in covid 19 pandemic.