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Once diagnosed, migraine is not an ordinary ‘headache’ a pregnant woman may experience. Nearly 15% of women who are expecting may exhibit its varying symptoms. It is a neurological factor that requires sufficient medical attention.

Let our team of medical experts explain this neurological condition. How different it is from a normal headache. As the best hospital for migraine treatment, Lotus Hospitals, looks after every tiny medical detail during pregnancy.

This blog is also related to your future baby’s safety and yourself. The information will help you understand a migraine vs normal headache. How to manage it with our healthcare providers in Hyderabad is also mentioned.

Migraine

It is a neurological condition characterized by intense, throbbing headaches. It is often accompanied by nausea, vomiting, and sensitivity to light and sound. Women are three times more likely to experience it. Pregnant women may face unique challenges due to hormonal changes and avoiding certain medications.

Detection and Tests

Doctors begin by asking about the frequency, duration, and intensity of headaches, and triggers. Signs and symptoms of migraine are noted down along with medical history for analysis.

Physical and Neurological Examination: It rules out other conditions that may mimic migraines, such as tension headaches or sinus issues.

Imaging Tests: In rare cases, MRI or CT scans may be used for other neurological disorders.

Blood Tests: They are conducted to check for underlying conditions like anaemia or thyroid issues that could contribute to headaches.

Diagnostic Criteria: Doctors use criteria from the International Classification of Headache Disorders (ICHD) to confirm a migraine diagnosis.

Types

Migraine with Aura: Characterized by visual disturbances, tingling, or speech difficulties before the headache begins.

Migraine without Aura: The most common type, involving moderate to severe headaches without warning signs.

Chronic Migraine: Occurs on 15 or more days per month for at least three months.

Vestibular Migraine: Causes dizziness and balance issues alongside headaches.

Hemiplegic Migraine: A rare type that causes temporary weakness or paralysis on one side of the body.

Menstrual Migraine: Linked to hormonal fluctuations and often occurs before or during menstruation.

Ocular Migraine: Involves temporary vision loss or blind spots in one eye.

Risk Factors and Challenges for Pregnant Women

Hormonal Changes: Fluctuations in estrogen levels during pregnancy is a trigger.

Family History: A genetic predisposition increases its likelihood.

Stress and Fatigue: Common during pregnancy and can exacerbate migraines.

Dehydration and Low Blood Sugar: Skipping meals or not drinking enough water can trigger headaches.

Pre-existing Conditions: Women with a history of migraines or conditions like hypertension are at higher risk.

Challenges

Limited Medication Options: Many migraine medications are unsafe during pregnancy, making treatment more complex.

Misdiagnosis: Migraines may be mistaken for other pregnancy-related conditions like preeclampsia.

Impact on Daily Life: Severe attacks affect a woman’s ability to work, care for herself, or prepare for childbirth.

Tips for Managing Migraines During Pregnancy

Identify Triggers: Keep a headache diary to track potential triggers like certain foods, stress, or lack of sleep.

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to prevent dehydration-related headaches.

Maintain a Regular Sleep Schedule: Aim for 7-9 hours of sleep per night and avoid irregular sleep patterns.

Practice Relaxation Techniques: Yoga, meditation, and deep breathing can help reduce stress.

Eat Small, Frequent Meals: This helps maintain stable blood sugar levels and prevents hunger-induced headaches.

Apply Cold or Warm Compresses: These can provide relief during a migraine attack.

Avoid Strong Smells and Bright Lights: These are common migraine triggers.

Visiting the Hospital for Treatment and Management

When to Seek Help: If migraines become more frequent or severe, or if they are accompanied by unusual symptoms like blurred vision or high blood pressure, seek medical attention immediately.

Safe Medications: Acetaminophen (paracetamol) is generally considered safe during pregnancy, but always consult a doctor before taking any medication.

Non-Pharmacological Treatments: Physical therapy, acupuncture, and biofeedback may be recommended for pregnant women.

Regular Check-ups: Ensure consistent prenatal care to monitor both the pregnancy and migraine condition.

Migraine causes and treatment are managed at Lotus Hospitals by a team of experienced nurses and doctors.

Pregnancy brings profound change and excitement for a woman. It adds to new health challenges requiring special attention. It is not very uncommon for expectant mothers to experience fluctuations in their blood pressure (hypotension). Recognising the symptoms of low BP in expectant mothers reduces potential complications and is crucial for health concerns.

In this article, we explore why low BP complications in pregnancy appear and monitor it continuously. Lotus Hospital, Hyderabad, offers guidance from a skilled gynecologist and correct dietary recommendations.

Pay attention to the symptoms of low BP in expectant mothers

Low BP Complications in Pregnancy

In the early stages of pregnancy, hormonal changes affect the cardiovascular system. It causes discomfort and leads to medical issues. It can hinder the supply of oxygen and nutrients to the placenta. It directly affects the baby’s growth and development.

Some common complications include:

Dizziness and Fainting: Increases the risk of falls and accidents.

Reduced Blood Flow to Organs: It affects mother and baby.

Preterm Labour: Increase the risk of contractions and labour.

Postpartum Haemorrhage: Complications following delivery, such as excessive bleeding is also noticed.

Stay informed and take the necessary steps.

Symptoms of Low Blood Pressure in Expectant Mothers

Be alert to the signs of low blood pressure and seek immediate medical attention if the symptoms appear. Mild dizziness or fatigue is common in pregnancy. Low BP is persistent and concerning.

Look out for:

Dizziness or Light headedness: Especially when standing up quickly.

Fainting or Near-Fainting Episodes: This could signal a dangerous drop in blood pressure.

Blurred Vision: A sudden decrease in vision or spots before the eyes.

Fatigue or Weakness: Feeling unusually tired or weak, especially after physical activity.

Visit your gynecologist for proper evaluation and management.

Pregnancy Diet for Low Blood Pressure

A balanced and nutrient-rich diet helps to manage low blood pressure during pregnancy. Certain foods should be eaten to stabilise blood pressure and improve overall health.

Incorporate the following foods:

High-Fibre Foods: Whole grains, fruits, and vegetables help maintain steady blood sugar and prevent sudden drops in blood pressure.

Iron-rich Foods: Spinach, lentils, and lean meats support healthy blood circulation and prevent anaemia, which can worsen low BP.

Small, Frequent Meals: Eating smaller meals throughout the day helps prevent sudden drops in blood pressure after large meals.

Hydration: Drinking plenty of water helps maintain blood volume and supports healthy circulation.

Limit the intake of processed foods, excessive salt, and sugary snacks or avoid them completely.

Expectant mothers need to eat well to avoid low BP

Visit the Best Gynaecology Hospital for Pregnancy Care

Seeking care from an experienced and reputable gynecologist is essential. The best gynecology hospital for pregnancy care provides a comprehensive approach and management.

Lotus Hospital have these key qualities:

Experienced Gynecologists: Specialists experienced in handling pregnancy-related conditions like low BP.

State-of-the-Art Facilities: Advanced diagnostic tools to monitor maternal and fetal health.

Personalised Care: Tailored advice and treatment plans.

Regular Monitoring and Support: Consistent check-ups to monitor blood pressure ensure prompt intervention for complications.

Giving birth to a healthy baby is just the beginning of a journey for a new mother to adjust mentally and physically. After delivery comes postpartum which is an equally overwhelming experience. It will vary between 6-8 weeks when the mother returns to her pre-pregnant phase. The vaginal healing takes time and some tips of postnatal care from doctors are useful to ease this difficult period.

There are bound to be physical changes. You will need to deal with vaginal tearing, sore breasts, C-sections, wounds, changes in the skin or hair loss. If you get a fever or feel any pain, make an appointment with the gynaecologist. As part of the after delivery care for mother, know the latest about postpartum management. 

Lotus Hospitals brings the latest information and tips from experienced and qualified doctors. 

Once you take the baby home, there will be restless nights and plenty of diaper-changing moments. Yes, these are also challenging times when a mother is most likely to neglect her wellbeing. It is vital to make time for self-nurturing and enjoying motherhood with the right nutrition and relaxation, This journey should be enjoyed rather than getting exhausted or dealing with depression.

Let’s appreciate some factors related to the postpartum care of the new mother.

Rest and recovery are the two important keywords during this phase. Hydration and nutrition heal the body. It assists in nursing and breastfeeding.

After 6 to 8 weeks, light exercise or walking is a refreshing change in the routine. Continue the follow up appointments with the doctor as needed.

When vaginal bleeding occurs, hygiene is important. Continue the use of sanitary napkins.

If you have mental issues, speak to someone in the family or join a support group. Your mind and body will recover when sharing specific topics of interest.

Adopt the ‘no rush’ mantra 

As mentioned earlier rest and recovery are essential, avoid rushing into recovery for professional commitments. This period of healing varies for each new mother. Allow the body to heal naturally. Forcefully recovering is counterproductive and the process (to recover) will be longer. As you take care of the baby, be patient with yourself. Make a small bag with recovery items that will be handy.

Include the following things you may need:

Nipple cream

Perineal spray

Bath salts to relax and increase blood circulation

Dry shampoo

Chocolates of your choice to feel better!

Icepacks

Water bottle for hydration

Essential oils

Comfortable clothing

As the baby will keep you up almost on many nights, you may be sleep-deprived. Embrace it as it will be demanding until the baby grows up.

After delivery care for mother includes rest, relaxation and hydration

If you feel sick looking at the mess in the house, leave it. It is okay to have someone to clean up and do the chores. If you have only a part-time maid, order a meal service so you do not skip eating. However, fresh meals are the best bet if a family member volunteers to make them. Don’t stay at home all the time. Take a walk in the park and meet up with friends.

Lotus Hospital helps you understand the reasons and provide expert care for your reproductive health.

If you’re struggling to get pregnant after an abortion, you’re not alone. Many women wonder if an abortion affects fertility. But in reality, it is that most women who have had an abortion can still conceive without any issues, but in some cases, there may be underlying factors impacting fertility. 

Can an abortion affect fertility?

Abortions, whether medical or surgical, are generally safe and don’t usually affect a woman’s ability to get pregnant in the future. However, few complications or existing conditions may lead to difficulties conceiving. 

1. Infection or complications from the procedure

In rare cases, complications from an abortion may lead to future fertility problems. Infections, such as pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), can cause scarring in the uterus or fallopian tubes. If left untreated, this scarring can affect the passage of eggs, leading to difficulty getting pregnant. It’s crucial to get proper treatment for any infections after an abortion to avoid long-term damage.

2. Pre-existing health conditions

Sometimes, underlying health conditions that may have been existing can also lead to fertility issues. Endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or uterine fibroids are conditions that may cause difficulty in conceiving, regardless of whether you’ve had an abortion. These conditions can interfere with ovulation, implantation, or the overall health of your reproductive organs.

3. Asherman’s syndrome

Asherman’s Syndrome is one of the rare conditions that can develop due to multiple scars in the uterus after a surgical abortion. This scarring can make it difficult for a fertilized egg to implant properly. Women with Asherman’s Syndrome may experience lighter or absent periods, and it can be diagnosed and treated by a fertility specialist.

4. Hormonal imbalance

Hormonal changes after an abortion may temporarily affect your menstrual cycle, making it harder to predict ovulation. Hormonal imbalances, such as thyroid issues or irregular levels of reproductive hormones, can disrupt ovulation and make conception difficult. Monitoring your hormone levels and seeking medical advice can help regulate your cycle and improve your chances of conceiving.

5. Emotional and psychological factors

The emotional impact of an abortion can be significant. Stress, anxiety, and depression can sometimes affect a woman’s ability to conceive by disrupting hormone levels and menstrual cycles. Taking care of your mental health and seeking support is essential for your overall well-being and future fertility.

When should you seek medical advice?

If you’ve been trying to get pregnant for over six months after an abortion and are facing difficulties, it’s time to consult with a specialist. 

We may recommend a range of tests, such as:

Ovulation monitoring

Ultrasound exams to check for structural issues

Hormonal assessments

Hysteroscopy to inspect the uterus for scarring or abnormalities

Improving your chances of conception

While it’s natural to feel concerned, most women are able to conceive after an abortion without long-term issues. Taking steps to maintain good reproductive health is key to improving your chances of pregnancy. 

These steps may include:

Maintaining a healthy lifestyle, with a balanced diet and regular exercise

Monitoring ovulation and tracking your menstrual cycle

Managing stress through relaxation techniques or counseling

Seeking early treatment for any reproductive health issues

At Lotus Hospital, our team of experienced obstetricians and gynecologists can help identify any underlying issues and provide guidance on the next steps for your fertility journey.