Birth Defect Causes

Diabetes During Pregnancy

2008-05-25T21:35:00.000-07:00

Your Blood Sugar During Pregnancy:

In women with diabetes, increasing hemoglobin A1C levels early in pregnancy — an indicator of poor blood sugar control — are associated with increasing risk of poor pregnancy outcomes according to a report in the journal Diabetes Care. In other words, when you have your blood sugar under control during your pregnancy, you are at a better place to have a healthier baby. In a study, pregnant women with higher hemoglobin levels had an array of poor outcomes with labor, such as stillbirth, miscarriages, neonatal death or a birth defect. The outcomes do vary from person to person and women with even higher blood sugars have had healthy babies.

Many people’s advice will pertain to pregnant women with diabetes as well as those without it, such as maintaining a good diet, exercise, avoiding unhealthy habits (drinking, smoking, caffeine intake, etc.) and taking a prenatal vitamin that will give you enough folic acid. Your medical professional can help you choose the right prenatal vitamin for you.

During pregnancy, you need to lower your blood glucose levels as much as you can. You need to get them to as close to normal as possible. This is significant during your first trimester, because high blood glucose levels can cause a miscarriage or birth defect.

How to Control Your Blood Sugar:

If you are taking pills to help regulate your blood sugar, your medical professional will probably switch you to insulin injections. To keep your blood sugar low, you need to know what it is and that means constant monitoring. It is recommended that you do this about eight times a day.

You need to follow your doctor’s meal plan for you. If you have hypoglycemia, it will need treatment. You’ll need to keep giving yourself the insulin injections and adjusting the dose when needed. You will also need to maintain a healthy routine of exercise. With all of these combined, you will increase your chances of having a healthy baby.

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Birth-Injury-Related Cerebral Palsy

2008-05-25T21:34:00.000-07:00

For most parents, the birth of a child is an exciting and joyous experience. But nowadays, 3 to 4 percent of newborns suffer from birth-related injuries. In the United States, cerebral palsy has become a serious birth-related injury which affects 5,000 to 10,000 infants each year.

There are different types of birth-related injuries that may happen before, during, or after the birth of a child. Although there are several types of birth injuries, one of the most popular and common type of birth injury is cerebral palsy.

Rather than a disease, cerebral palsy in newborn babies is a physical condition that is caused by brain damage before, during, or after birth. There are four different types of cerebral palsy: spastic cerebral palsy, ataxic cerebral palsy, athetoid cerebral palsy, and mixed cerebral palsy. Each type of cerebral palsy has its own characteristics. Of the four types of cerebral palsy, spastic cerebral palsy is the most common type. It accounts for eighty percent of all cases today in the United States.

Birth injury-related cerebral palsy is usually caused by birth asphyxia (lack of oxygen during the birth process), a complex condition which is difficult to predict or prevent.

Premature birth, low birth weight, hemorrhage in the child's brain, an infection or illness in the mother like rubella, toxoplasmosis; intrauterine exposure to drugs or alcohol are other reasons for birth injury related cerebral palsy.

Even though doctors and nurses are trained to identify symptoms of cerebral palsy, in most cases they fail to recognize the problem of brain injury in newborn babies. This failure may lead to birth injury related cerebral palsy. When cerebral palsy is caused due to birth injury (negligence), it becomes a case of medical malpractice .The parents of victims can claim for compensation for life long care. With the help of a cerebral palsy lawyer, victims can easily win compensation for medical malpractice.

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Cause Of Autism - Some People Think They Know What Causes Autism?

2008-05-22T05:13:00.000-07:00

The fact is that no one really knows for sure what causes autism, but many professionals would most likely agree that autism is likely caused by a combination of genetic and environmental factors. For many parents, this uncertainty in what causes autism can be very frustrating.

The topic of what causes autism has become extremely controversial. Many individuals are passionate about the subject, and have very strong convictions. Although there is no known cause for autism there are a few theories on what my cause it. Some of those theories are:

Vaccines Cause Autism - some people believe that the mercury (thimerosal) used in some vaccines could cause autism.

Is Autism Genetic - I tend to believe that autism most likely has a genetic basis of some sort. Several studies and reports over the years have proven many families with one autistic child are at increased risk of having more than one child with autism. That is certainly the case with us. After our second boy was diagnosed with autism the Genetisit told us we better not have any more children since there was a good chance we would have another child with autism.

Autism is Caused By Bad Parenting - This one is pretty ridiculous. "The refrigerator mother" causing autism was a popular notion in the 1950's but as I said it is totally ridiculous and absolutely absurd.

Autism Caused By Abnormal Brain Development - A few researchers have found differences between the brain of someone with autism and the so called normal brain. People with autism appear to have larger brains.

Autism Caused By Deficiency in the Immune System There are a few studies that have shown autism is associated with troubles in the immune system. Mostly that the individual has an allergy to gluten and dairy products that contribute to the symptoms of autism.

Autism Caused By Poor Nutrition - The late Dr. Bernard Rimland of The Autism Institute has been researching megavitamin therapy for many years in treating individuals with autism.

Even with all these theories we are still no closer to knowing what causes autism. But I feel with the recent awareness of autism and the emphasis on research that it will not be very long before we find out what truly causes autism. I think it most likely will be a combination of factors and maybe different reasons for different individuals - maybe even within the same family.

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Autism Spectrum Disorders - What Does the Term "Autism Spectrum Disorder" (ASD) Mean?

2008-05-22T05:12:00.000-07:00

Medical professionals often use the term Autism Spectrum Disorders (or ASD for short) to explain the large variety of symptoms, signs and characteristics associated with a diagnosis of Autism.

As we all know, more and more children are getting diagnosed with Autism everyday. According to the Center for Disease Control, Autism now occurs in one out of every 150 individuals. Some researchers account for the increase in Autism due to us better understanding the entire Autism spectrum.

The Autism spectrum, however, is sometimes difficult for parents to understand. Some parents say things like: "My child has Autism, but he does not do that!" or they will ask "My child will interact with other kids, does he still have Autism?" The answer is simply that Autism is a spectrum, but what exactly does this mean?

A spectrum means that there are children with Autism symptoms on one side, the other side, and everywhere in between. For example, let's take a look at communication and the Autism spectrum. You might have one child on one end of the spectrum that is non-verbal and will only use gestures to tell his or her needs. Then, you might have a child on the other end of the spectrum that can tell you every small detail and then some about his favorite dinosaurs. Both of these children have Autism, but they are on opposite ends of the Autism spectrum for their communication skills.

All of the fundamental deficits of Autism are a spectrum: communication, social skills, and behavior. Each child with Autism has skills that vary on each of the spectrums. Also, all of the types of autistic disorders make up this "Autism spectrum". The different types of autistic disorders include: Autism, Asperger Syndrome, and Pervasive Developmental – Not Otherwise Specified (PDD-NOS).

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Spina Bifida - Who Is At Risk For Spina Bifida?

2008-05-20T04:26:00.002-07:00

Doctors are not certain what causes spina bifida, or why neural tubes do not develop or close properly in some babies, though they have identified a few risk factors for spina bifida as follows:

Race. Spina bifida is more common among Hispanics and whites of Northern European descent.
Gender. More female babies are born with spina bifida.
Family history. Couples who have had one child with a neural tube defect have a slightly higher chance of having another baby with the same defect. That risk increases if two previous children have been affected by the condition. In addition, a woman who was born with a neural tube defect, or who has a close relative with one, has a greater chance of giving birth to a child with spina bifida. However, most babies with spina bifida are born to parents with no known family history of the condition.
Folic acid deficiency. This vitamin is important to the healthy development of a fetus. Lack of folic acid (vitamin B-9) increases the risk of spina bifida and other neural tube defects.
Some medications. Anti-seizure medications, such as valproic acid (Depakene), seem to cause neural tube defects when taken during pregnancy, perhaps because they interfere with the body's ability to use folic acid.
Diabetes. The risk of spina bifida increases with diabetes, especially when the mother's blood sugar is elevated early in her pregnancy. Careful blood sugar control and management can decrease this risk.
Obesity. There is a link between pre-pregnancy obesity and neural tube birth defects, including spina bifida. Exactly why obese women have an increased risk of having a baby with spina bifida is not known, but is possibly because of nutritional deficits from poor eating habits or because they may have diabetes - another known risk factor for neural tube defects.
Increased body temperature. Some evidence suggests that increased body temperature (hypothermia) in the early months of pregnancy may increase the risk of spina bifida. Elevating your core body temperature by about 3 to 4 degrees Fahrenheit above normal, due to fever or the use of saunas and hot tubs, can raise body temperature and has been associated with an increased risk of spina bifida.

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Baby and Toddler - Spina Bifida

2008-05-20T04:26:00.001-07:00

It is always important to have good nutrition while you are pregnant and make sure you take your prenatal vitamins. Some birth defects may be prevented if pregnant mothers follow these rules. Spina bifida is a birth defect that may be prevented if you have enough folic acid in your diet. About one in every 2000 babies have spina bifida. Spina bifida is a birth defect that affects the bones of the spine. The bones do not form properly around the spinal cord. The name spina bifida literally mean "split" or "open" spine in Latin.

Spina bifida occurs during the first month of pregnancy. Sometimes before the mother even knows she is pregnant. This is why it is important to try to be in good health and eating right when you plan to become pregnant. Spina bifida happens when the two sides of the embryo's spine do not completely fuse together. There are some cases where the spinal cord may protrude through the opening that is not fused.

Researchers still don't know exactly what causes spina bifida. There is evidence that suggests that genes may be involved, but in most cases there is no connection. If a woman has a high fever during pregnancy, there is an increased risk of it. Folic acid has been linked to reducing the risk of spina bifida. Taking certain drugs to control epilepsy have also been linked to a higher risk of spina bifida. It is most common for babies whose mothers are of British ancestry. A woman who already has one child with spina bifida will more likely have another one with it.

There are two types of spina bifida. Spina bifida occulta and spina bifida manifesta. Spina bifida occulta is the mildest form. It is also the most common. The defect is hidden under the skin and usually does not cause any problems. There is an estimate of 10 - 20% of the general population that have this form of spina bifida and do not even know it. In these cases there are a few tell tale signs that someone may have spina bifida. These people may have a birthmark, depression, dimple or a hairy patch on the skin over where the vertebrae are affected.

Spina bifida manifesta is a more severe form and a more rare form. It usually is associated with problems walking, bladder problems and coordination. This type of spina bifida can be separated into two classes, meningocele and myelomeningocele. In meningocele the fluid leaks out of the baby's spinal cord. This causes a swollen area of the spine. Myelomeningocele is when some of the spinal nerves push out of the spinal canal against the underside of the skin. The nerves are usually damaged. In the very worst cases the skin is split open as well and the nerves are exposed to the outside. Most babies who are born with this kind of spina bifida will have hydrocephalus, which is accumulation of fluid in and around the brain.

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Pregnancy - How is Spina Bifida Detected?

2008-05-14T02:44:00.000-07:00

If you are pregnant, you will be offered prenatal screening tests to check for spina bifida and other birth defects. These tests are not perfect. Even if the results are negative, there is still a small chance that spina bifida is present, and many mothers who have positive blood tests have normal babies. Speak with your doctor about prenatal testing, its risks and how you might handle the results. Prenatal testing is a personal choice.

Following are methods used to check for spina bifida during pregnancy:

Blood tests. The primary test used to check for myelomeningocele is the maternal serum alpha-fetoprotein (MSAFP) test. In this procedure, your doctor draws a blood sample to be sent to a laboratory, where it's tested for alpha fetoprotein (AFP), a protein that's produced by the fetus. It's normal for a small amount of AFP to cross the placenta and enter the mother's bloodstream, but abnormally high levels of AFP may indicate that the fetus has a neural tube defect. Varying levels of AFP can be caused by factors including a miscalculation in fetal age or multiple fetuses. If this occurs, your doctor may order a follow-up blood test for confirmation. If the results are still high, you will need further evaluation, including an ultrasound examination.
Ultrasound. Many obstetricians use ultrasonography to screen for spina bifida. If blood tests indicate high AFP levels, your doctor will suggest an ultrasound exam to determine why. Ultrasound exams bounce high-frequency sound waves off tissues in your body to form black and white images on a small video monitor. The information these images provide can help establish whether there is more than one fetus and can help confirm gestational age - factors that can alter AFP levels. An advanced ultrasound can also detect signs of spina bifida, such as an open spine or particular features in your baby's brain that may indicate spina bifida. Ultrasound today is quite effective in detecting spina bifida and assessing its severity. This procedure is safe for both mother and baby.
Amniocentesis. If a blood test shows high levels of AFP in your blood and the ultrasound is normal, your doctor may offer an amniocentesis. During an amniocentesis, your doctor uses a needle to remove samples of fluid from the amniotic sac that surrounds the fetus. The analysis indicates the level of AFP present in the amniotic fluid. A small amount of AFP is normally found in amniotic fluid, however the amniotic fluid contains an elevated amount of AFP when an open neural tube defect is present because the skin surrounding the baby's spine is gone and AFP leaks into the amniotic sac. A second test can be done on the same sample to confirm that a neural tube defect is present. However, an amniocentesis cannot indicate the severity of spina bifida. This test does have a risk to the developing fetus - about one in 200 to one in 500 pregnant women miscarries after an amniocentesis.

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Pregnant Women - Folic Acid To Be Added To Bread To Avoid Birth Defects

2008-05-14T02:43:00.000-07:00

he Government is considering adding Folic Acid to all bread except wholemeal at the milling stage.

Why Add Folic Acid To Bread?

As bread is part of the staple diet of most people, adding Folic Acid, will mean everybody will be taking Folic Acid, whether they wish to or not.

The people, who it is actually aimed at, are pregnant women. So by adding Folic Acid to bread, it could reduce the number of babies being born with Spina Bifida.

What Is Spina Bifida?

Spina Bifida is a serious condition where the baby is born with part of the spine not completely developed, so leaving the nerves in the back unprotected and exposed.

This defect can happen during the first month of pregnancy.

As the spinal cord is part of the brain … ie the nerves connected to the spinal cord are unable to send messages to the brain. This means that the baby may not be able to walk; and even the ability to learn may be affected.

It is possible to operate on the newborn baby to close the gap, but as the nerve damage has already happened, the damage is permanent and unfortunately an operation on the nerves is of no use.

Other complications due to the baby having Spina Bifida are that the baby may have problems with their bowels and bladder.

A close relation to Spina Bifida is Hydrocephalus (an accumulation of spinal fluid on the brain).

Is There Any Treatment For The Baby With Spina Bifida?

Apart from the operation soon after birth to close the gap, the best that can be done to help the baby to live as normal a life as possible is treating each problem with medication and physiotherapy.

Many individuals with Spina Bifida will need help of some kind for the rest of their lives. This may involve the use of devices, such as braces and wheelchairs.

What Is The Prognosis For People With Spina Bifida?

The prognosis for each individual is dependent on what defects there are:

Prognosis is at its worst for the baby born with complete paralysis. But with proper care most children with Spina Bifida can live for many years into adulthood.

How Many Babies Are Born With Spina Bifida?

The number of babies born with Spina Bifida in the UK is between 700 – 900 per year; while in the US one in every 2000 births are affected.

Some countries have already started adding Folic Acid to their flour and this is showing as a drop of between 30 – 50% in babies born with Spina Bifida.

Who’s Idea Is This?

The Government’s food watchdog – The Food Standard’s Agency are putting forward the idea of adding Folic Acid to flour at its milling stage.

Although in 2002 the Food Standard Agency rejected a report put forward in 2000. So why have they changed their minds yet again? Maybe due to other countries that have been adding Folic Acid to their bread are showing a drop in babies being born with Spina Bifida.

How Much Is It Likely To Cost?

It has been estimated that the cost to industry will be around £700 000 a year.

Is There A Downside To Giving Everyone Folic Acid?

As people are being mass medicated this can cause concern for many. Also medically, taking Folic Acid can mean that older people with a Vitamin B12 deficiency resulting in Pernicious Anaemia may not be noticed immediately and so their treatment will be delayed.

What Can A Woman Of Child Bearing Years Do?

As many pregnancies are unplanned and it is being proved that a deficiency of Folic Acid may result in a baby being born with Spina Bifida; including Folic Acid in the food they eat should be a must have. It is highly recommended that all women of childbearing years should take Folic Acid in a Nutritional Supplement and eat plenty of green vegetables, as they are rich in Folic Acid.

By adding Folic Acid to bread it will hopefully result in less babies being born with Spina Bifida. And this can only be a good thing can’t it?

Eva Moffat a 66 year old disabled woman living in Manchester, Englad. Has written several articles all health related.

Eva has been awarded Expert Author status by 3 Publishers. And has now been awarded the prestigious Platinum Award.

Please feel free to use this article on your website,or in your Ezine or Newsletter.

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How Is A Child With Autism Syndrome

2008-05-08T03:42:00.000-07:00

Autism is not a disease, but a developmental desorder of brain function. Symptoms of autism syndrom usually appear during the first three years of childhood and continue through life. Children are social creatures who like to smile, laugh, cuddle and play. But there are also children taht seem to exist in their own world, where there are repetitive routines, odd behaviors, comunication problems or total lack of social awarness or interest in others.

A child with autism syndrome who goes to school is generally withdrawn and he will not even make eye contact. Many cildren engage in repetitive movements such as rocking and hair twirling in self-injurious behavior such as biting or head-banging.

Children with autism syndrome tend to start speaking later than usual and tahey refear to themselves by name instead of "I" or "me", they may speak in a sing-sang voice or use peculiar language.

There are some cildren with autism syndrome that are very bright and do very good in school and they may be able to live independently when tahey grow up. There are autistic cildren with talent in art, music and other area.

There isn't one specific cause of autism syndrome and for taht it remaind unknown. Research has focused on wether chemical inbalances, differences in the brain, genetics or problems of the central nervous sistem. However, what do we know is that parents do not cause autism.

There is no cure for autism syndrome and children will have it throught taheir live. Children with autism syndrome need educational programs and a comprehensive evaluation. Psychiatrists are trained to diagnose children and adolescents with autism sindrome and also to help their families cope the stress. Also a rege of medication can be prescribed to help reduce aggressive and violent behaviour.

With educational programs designed to meet cildren wit autism syndrome individual needs and specialised adult support services, they can live and sometimes work in the society.

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Is It Wise Taking Birth Control While Pregnant?

2008-05-08T03:39:00.000-07:00

I realize that many of us may wonder if taking birth control while pregnant would hurt the baby. First if you have accidentally took some birth control and found out that you are pregnant the baby should be alright especially in the beginning. I would let my doctor know at once so that he may check when I was in my next trimester to make sure there will be no birth defects. It has been found through studies that taking birth control while pregnant can lead to birth defects. Remember read the writing on the package as it tells you plainly not to take while pregnant. It would not do you any good anyway.

Please don’t be alarmed if you happen to be taking birth control while pregnant especially in the start of the pregnancy. A lot of women have made that mistake and had perfectly normal babies. Taking the pill only one time at the start of the pregnancy should not harm the baby. If you suspect that you are pregnant discontinue the pill right away. Then contact your doctor or a family client be tested right away. It is unlikely that the hormones will kill the fetus.

It is of course not healthy for the fetus for you to continue taking them for months or several weeks. Taking birth control while pregnant if kept on a continuous basis could cause birth defects and even cause a miscarriage. This is not a safe way to terminate a pregnancy. This could be very dangerous for you even life threatening. In the event that you need to terminate the baby go to a clinic and have a safe procedure if you are early on in your pregnancy it should not be hard to have the baby terminated by an abortion. Family clinics are there to help you and to advise you as well. Take advantage of their services before you make any rash decisions. Taking birth control pill may not always work in some cases unfortunately. It maybe necessary for you to be on the pill but if you find that you are taking birth control while pregnant immediately see your doctor.

No women intentionally would want to harm their baby by taking birth control while pregnant. It is not uncommon for birth defects to arise without the assistance of the wrong type of medication. Let us review a few defects that can harm the baby but can be avoided with proper care. Genital and urinary tract defects are common as one in ten babies. Show some abnormalities. Not all defects are serious and show no symptoms. Other malformations can be more serious causing urinary tract infections, pain, or kidney damage. Many of these defects can be detected at birth with the use of an ultrasound. Some of these abnormalities are inherited from the parents who have the disorder or carry the gene for it. The problem of birth defects can come from many different sources that are why a new mother-to-be needs to carefully watch her diet and especially watch any medication that she may have been prescribed to take. Taking birth control while pregnant is really not a wise decision for baby or mom.

Birth defects for your child are very serious and some can last a life time. Heart problems are the number one birth defect that we need to be made aware. In some cases heart problems are mild and hardly noticeable. In other cases heart disease can be very serious needing surgery, a pace maker, or other devices at a very early age. Heart problems as in other defects can be an inherited defect or poor health care and unfortunately it is not wise taking birth control while pregnant. It is very important that if you even suspect you maybe pregnant to discontinue taking the birth control, see your physician, be tested immediately, and follow your physician’s advice to the letter. I cannot stress enough to you that you should read the label on any medication you are taking. “Discontinue use if you become pregnant.” Normally all birth control medications have this warning on the medication. The FDA requires that the manufacturer place this label for the public to read and be made aware of dangers involved. So please it is not safe to be taking birth control while pregnant. A point that I hope all of you got while reading this article consult with your physician if you have any doubts or questions.

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Gestational Diabetes - What It Can Mean To Your Baby

2008-05-06T03:43:00.000-07:00

Gestational diabetes, while only affecting 5% of pregnancies, can have serious effects on your baby. Here's a quick rundown on some of the possible complications.

During the 24th - 28th week of pregnancy, your doctor will give you a simple blood test for diabetes. Blood glucose levels, or blood sugar levels, that are elevated may be a sign of gestational diabetes. Left unchecked, this can cause:

Jaundice

Jaundice is fairly common after 5-7 days of birth. Generally, this is not a serious health issue, but needs medical attention nonetheless.

Death or baby being stillborn

The risk of death or stillbirth rises significantly with gestational diabetes that is left untreated.

Hypoglycemia

There are times when babies will develop low blood sugar after birth due to gestational diabetes in their mother. Their own insulin production has been extremely high in countering the increased levels of blood sugar, but is now needing some time to go down to a regular level.

Macrosmia

There are times when a baby will grow to a much larger size due to untreated gestational diabetes. This condition is known as macrosmia. It happens when the baby is exposed to far greater amounts of blood sugar.

Shoulder Dsytocia

Although rare, due to the increase in size of the baby it is unable to come through the birth canal.

Although gestational diabetes affects fewer than 1 in 10 women who are pregnant, it is a serious condition that must be treated.

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Pregnancy Miscarriage - Expectations after Pregnancy Miscarriage

2008-04-30T11:13:00.000-07:00

Having a pregnancy miscarriage may find yourself submerged with fear and nervousness at a very significant moments you attain during your current pregnancy. The statement of pregnancy miscarriage are a common occurence will not lessen the affect of what had happen before. Nor having other healthy children at home, although some people may assume that this can help decrease your emotions. If you experienced an early miscarriage during your pregnancy you may be more apprehensive until you reach the point at which things you went wrong during your last pregnancy. If you suffer multiple pregnancy miscarriages, you might never feel completely relaxed during this pregnancy.

It's natural to always keep in check your excitement for having a baby again inspite of the loss and suffering you encountered before. Do this in order to protect your self, and to decrease the grief if you miscarry again.The normal reccomendation to insist a degree of control over a hazardous situation always stimulate a common desire. To do this in a different manner during pregnancy, here are some typical behaviors:

* Do it with extra safe. Experiencing multiple pregnancy miscarriage teaches us unwelcome lesson. Life sometimes frustrate our most cherished plan and moments in life.It's natural to be more concerned in your next pregnancy. Talk to a doctor and ask advices on what to do to achieve a peaceful mind during that pregnancy. Get assurance so that you can enjoy your pregnancy, without any fear or threat to the baby.

* Try to look for new medical strategy. If your previous pregnancy before is more on medical oriented, then look for a less intervention in your next pregnancy. You might seek more medical intervention.

* Maintain emotional distance from your baby. If you experienced pregnancy miscarriage before, you might be surprise by how you are relatively showing the lack of emotional involvement you feel from your baby during the next pregnancy. Do not personalized your baby for a time. If you have suffered loss, it's common to hold back by the time to choose to know as little information about the baby before his birth.

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Pregnancy Loss - A Short Note On A Few Eventualities

2008-04-30T11:12:00.000-07:00

40 weeks of week-by-week, pregnancy information is necessary to enlighten women who are pregnant. The privilege of giving birth to a new life cannot perhaps be equaled by any other feeling or event. However, there are some undesired circumstances like false pregnancy or miscarriage pregnancy, which cast a pall on the divine happiness of giving birth. This article sheds light on a few of such specific cases related to pregnancy, which could result in not-so-perfect situations.

1.False Pregnancy – This is a case where there is actually no pregnancy. False pregnancy is in fact a scenario where women facing family troubles, undergoing intense conflict, or experiencing a sharp desire to conceive or any other psychologically disturbing situation, tend to believe that they are pregnant. All apparent symptoms of a true pregnancy for the initial few weeks of false weekly pregnancy are displayed. Yet there is no pregnancy. This actually cannot be really considered as a termination of pregnancy, because in medical sense there is no pregnancy.

2.Miscarriage Pregnancy - Also referred to as spontaneous abortion, this is technically a situation, in which the pregnancy ends on its own within the first 20 weeks. Practically however, miscarriage pregnancy is a turmoil, which leaves the affected in a state of distress and in weak physical health. One of the most common types of pregnancy loss, miscarriage pregnancy can result from a number of reasons including, hormonal changes, maternal trauma, and improper implantation of the egg in the uterus lining and adverse lifestyles.

3.Lupus Pregnancy – Lupus patients have been told since ages that they cannot give birth to healthy children. Advances in medical science have however, proved this assertion a myth. Lupus pregnancies though are high-risk situations. All that is required is close monitoring of both mother’s and child’s health all through the 40 weeks of week by week pregnancy.

4.Termination of Pregnancy – Another situation that leads to pregnancy loss is deliberate termination of pregnancy. It is a course opted for due to various reasons. In a few instances, expected complications in pregnancies lead even the experts to suggest that the pregnancy should be deliberately terminated.

5.Ectopic Pregnancy – It is a medical situation wherein the pregnancy is terminated because the fertilized ovum is implanted anywhere other than the uterine wall. Most of the times, this incorrect implantation occurs in the Fallopian tube, which is why Ectopic pregnancy is also referred to as tubal pregnancy.

The above-mentioned situations, most of which have been well researched by medical sciences, lead to pregnancy loss during the conception period. Only apt medical guidance & extreme caution during the 40 weeks of week-by-week pregnancy can help avoid these pregnancy complications.

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General Information about Fetal Alcohol Syndrome: What Every Woman Should Know

2008-04-21T11:06:00.000-07:00

After all of the terrible effects of FAS and FASD that have taken place, it is a surprise that it has taken our government so long to promote medical awareness of the effects of a woman drinking while pregnant. It is one of the absolutely most important things a mother-to-be must remember, the problems than can and will most likely occur from the consumption of alcohol during pregnancy.

One extremely moving story of such a problem is the story of Bonnie Buxton and the father of their FASD diagnosed child, Brian Philcox became strong advocates encouraging the absolute awareness they feel that everyone must have. I agree with the parents, they want to show what the effects of their daughter, Collette. Collette suffered the effects of FAS and is now 27 years old. She was diagnosed with an alcohol related Neurological Disorder in 1997.

Often, the neurological effects of fetal alcohol syndrome present right away, but there is still danger – even for a child that is seemingly born healthy. Just because you try to be “careful” there is no way to be careful without remaining completely abstinent.

In a much more significant way, abstinence from alcohol is essential to guarantee your child’s health. Just as abstinence is the highest method recommended by doctors to avoid pregnancy. As a matter of fact, while a mother is breast feeding it is still important for her to watch her alcohol consumption until she has ceased to breastfeed

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Fetal Alcohol Syndrome - Don't Risk Your Unborn Child

2008-04-21T11:05:00.000-07:00

The dangers of consuming alcohol whilst pregnant have only really become fully understood in recent years. When the pregnant woman drinks alcohol, it enters the bloodstream and reduces the ability of the blood in the placenta to provide adequate oxygen to the growing fetus. The infant is born suffering from the same problems as an alcoholic and is therefore subject to withdrawal symptoms from the moment he or she is born. These symptoms include irritability, sleeplessness, and poor appetite.

Around twenty percent of infants born with fetal alcohol syndrome will die shortly after birth. Those that live will have a lifetime of intellectual disability to a varying degree as well as physical disabilities.

The consequences of fetal alcohol syndrome include deformities and impeded development, though there are doubtless other consequences to this condition as well. It is actually a series of defects, the most serious characteristic being a group of deformities of the head. Children born with fetal alcohol syndrome are also likely to suffer from delayed growth and development.

The main problem with growth in an affected child is that of deficiency which results in the child being small and underweight.

There are also facial abnormalities such as small eyes, sagging eyelids, small jaw, defects in ear formation, and sometimes a hole in the roof of the mouth.

Skeletal underdevelopment results in deformities in the ribs and chest bone, dislocated hips, curvature of the spine, and a small head. Sometimes, these children are born with missing fingers or toes.

Another problem is the effect this syndrome has on the organs. Children born with fetal alcohol syndrome are prone to heart defects, kidney problems, and can even suffer from genital malformation.

Fetal alcohol syndrome is relatively rare and takes place only in the children of mothers who are alcoholic or at least drink regularly and heavily during pregnancy.

Approximately one third of children born to mothers who are alcoholic or who drink heavily during pregnancy are likely to suffer from fetal alcohol syndrome. It is even possible for a child to be born with this syndrome when the mother has drunk only a small amount of alcohol but has done so on a regular basis.

Sometimes a child may not suffer from the entire range of problems associated with fetal alcohol syndrome but the alcohol can still cause a child to be born with development problems which have taken place whilst in the uterus. There is some debate about how much alcohol is safe during pregnancy but it is believed that even small amounts, in the first trimester, can be harmful.

Obviously, the best way to avoid this problem is to avoid all alcohol during pregnancy. It is still possible to enjoy social occasions without consuming alcohol and putting your unborn baby at risk. There are many non-alcoholic wines and so forth available these days and this is a much safer option.

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Fetal Alcohol Syndrome - Causes, Symptoms and Treatment Methods

2008-04-12T19:49:00.001-07:00

Fetal Alcohol syndrome is an invisible avalanche crashing down and overwhelming public resources. Patients with fetal alcohol syndrome typically have multiple handicaps and require special medical, educational, familial and community assistance. A baby born with FAS may be seriously handicapped and require a lifetime of special care. In the United States, about 1,200 children are born each year with fetal alcohol syndrome. It is the leading cause of mental retardation in this country. When a woman drinks alcohol during pregnancy, she risks giving birth to a child who will pay the price- in mental and physical deficiencies- for his or her entire life. It is a pattern of mental and physical defects which develops in some unborn babies when the mother drinks too much alcohol during pregnancy. People with FAS might have problems with learning, memory, attention span, communication, vision, hearing, or a combination of these. These problems often lead to difficulties in school and problems getting along with others.

Fetal alcohol syndrome includes a characteristic group of defects including small head and brain, facial abnormalities, and defects of other organs. Alcohol is capable of causing birth defects. Causing a child to suffer from fetal alcohol syndrome is really nothing short of child abuse and it lasts for life. Babies born with FAS tend to weigh less and be shorter than normal. This capability classifies it medically as a teratogen. Alcohol is now recognized as the leading teratogen to which the fetus is likely to be exposed. The syndrome is found in all racial and socio-economic groups. If you suspect that your child has FAS, talk to your doctor as soon as possible. Early diagnosis reduces the risk of problems in life associated with FAS, including troubles at school, with substance abuse and with the law. There is no cure for FAS; however, with early identification and diagnosis, children with FAS can receive services that can help increase their potential.

Causes of Fetal alcohol syndrome

The common causes of Fetal alcohol syndrome include the following:

Use of alcohol during the pregnancy.

Many drugs.

Heart defects such as ventricular septal defect or atrial septal defect.

Women older than 30 years and/or those with a long history of alcohol consumption.

Symptoms of of Fetal alcohol syndrome

Some sign and symptoms related to of Fetal alcohol syndrome are as follows:

Poor socialization skills, such as difficulty building and maintaining friendships and relating to groups.

Poor coordination/fine motor skills.

Small head circumference.

Failure to thrive.

Growth, motor, and mental retardation.

Mental retardation and delayed development.

Slow physical growth before and after birth.

Incomplete development of genitalia.

Facial abnormalities, skeletal limb abnormalities, tremors (in the newborn infant), agitation and crying (in the newborn infant).

Treatment of Fetal alcohol syndrome

Here is list of the methods for treating Fetal alcohol syndrome:

Babies and children with alcohol-related damage often need developmental follow-up and, possibly, long-term treatment and care.

Pregnant alcoholic women should be involved in alcohol abuse rehabilitation programs and monitored closely throughout pregnancy.

If you're an alcoholic, don't get pregnant until you get help. Use birth control methods until you're able to control your drinking.

Heart abnormalities may require surgery.

A child with FAS may need help with social skills and memory.

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Alcohol Effects on Unborn Babies - What do we Know so Far

2008-04-12T19:47:00.000-07:00

Pregnancy is a special time where a mother-to-be is to rejoice for the welcoming of her baby. In order to get ready and offer the baby the best environment possible, many future parents will go through extended expenses and will invest a lot of time preparing their house to be the best for their baby.

What about the temporary house the baby will live in for nine months before being born? Is the uterus the best and most welcoming and secure environment for the unborn baby?

A couple of decades ago, many doctors delivering babies were shocked to realize that some babies were born deformed, had a general growth retardation, a small brain and a particular face. It did not take long to link this phenomenon to the fact that the mothers consumed alcohol during their pregnancy. The problem was named fetal alcohol syndrome.

Although we now know about fetal alcohol syndrome, it is a very common for expectant women to consume alcoholic beverages during their pregnancy. What we know so far about alcohol and pregnancy is still limited.

The medical community agrees that the fetal alcohol syndrome is caused by the mother consuming alcoholic beverages regularly or in good quantity during the pregnancy. The exact amount of alcohol that causes the damages to the unborn baby will never be determined precisely as it varies according to the mother’s weight, the stage of the pregnancy, the rapidity and the percentage of the alcohol intake and so many other factors.

Since we know that fetal alcohol syndrome causes permanent, severe and irreversible damages to the unborn baby, the best attitude is to consume no alcohol at all during the entire pregnancy. Fetal alcohol syndrome is not an inherited disease and is only caused by consuming alcohol during pregnancy. Hence, even if a woman feels she has had an alcohol problem for a long period of time during her life, if she does not take alcohol during her pregnancy, her baby will not be affected.

The medical community also agrees that the alcohol intake by the father cannot cause fetal alcohol syndrome. On the other hand, it is a well known fact that if the father drinks alcohol regularly, the mother-to-be will be more tempted to take alcohol as well.

Many babies born from mothers consuming alcohol will present will a withdrawal syndrome after birth. Such symptoms as tremors, difficulty feeding, and increased irritability are a few of the symptoms.

Taking care of our unborn babies starts by taking care of our pregnant women as a society. Such simple things as offering a pregnant woman a non-alcohol healthy fruit juice or nice glass of pure refreshing water might be the first step towards a stronger generation to come.

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Miscarriage - A Living Nightmare For The Expecting Moms And Pops

2008-04-11T03:04:00.000-07:00

A miscarriage is the natural end of pregnancy when the developing embryo or fetus is less than 20 weeks old and incapable of surviving outside the womb. Miscarriages that occur less than six weeks after your last menstrual period are referred to as an 'early pregnancy loss', whereas miscarriages that occur after this point are termed 'clinical spontaneous abortion'. If you are less than six weeks pregnant, you may not even realize you have been so, and may mistake the miscarriage for a heavy menstrual bleed.

More than three-quarters of all miscarriages occur in the first twelve weeks (also known as the first trimester) of your pregnancy. The causes of miscarriage in this first trimester are mostly because of chromosomal abnormalities. As expectant parents, you need to understand that such abnormalities occur at random and are unlikely to occur in future pregnancies. Sometimes a miscarriage in the first trimester can be due to a deficiency of the hormone progesterone. In future pregnancies, your doctor will prescribe a progesterone supplement to ensure your pregnancy proceeds as normal.

Miscarriages in the second trimester are generally related to problems with your uterus, placenta or cervix. Malformations in the umbilical cord can also cause a clinical spontaneous abortion.

While the large proportion of miscarriages are beyond your control, there are several risk factors for miscarriage. Among them are:

- If you are pregnant with twins, there is a greater chance of early pregnancy loss.

- If you are a diabetic who does not control your diabetes, there is a considerably heightened risk of miscarriage.

- Cigarette smoking, whether by you or your partner, increases the chance that your baby may not make it to term.

- Physical trauma, such as falls or blows, especially to your abdomen may also result in a miscarriage.

- Excessive caffeine or alcohol intake, obesity and exposure to certain chemicals will also enhance the likelihood of miscarriage.

The most obvious sign of miscarriage is bleeding. If you notice unusual bleeding during your pregnancy, you will need to talk to your doctor, who may perform an ultrasound scan to visualize your developing baby. In many cases, when a miscarriage occurs, your doctor may wish to undertake a procedure known as a curette. A curette ensures that all the baby's tissue is removed from your uterus, thereby preventing infection and scarring. After a miscarriage, your doctor will want to investigate why the miscarriage occurred and may recommend that you wait several menstrual cycles before attempting to become pregnant again.

Although the physical effects are usually mild, the emotional pain that you and your partner may experience can be quite severe. There is a natural tendency to blame yourself for somehow causing the miscarriage, although in many cases you will have had no control over or effect upon the health of your developing baby.

Your feelings of grief and loss may be very strong, so do not be afraid to seek counseling to help you and your partner through this difficult time. In many instances, there will be no reason for you not to become pregnant in the future, and every likelihood that the pregnancy will proceed smoothly.

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Facts about Miscarriages

2008-04-11T03:03:00.000-07:00

Miscarriage is the loss of pregnancy before 24 weeks. It is against the will of a woman and cause a lot of grief and tears to her.

Most of the miscarriages take place in the first 12 to 13 weeks. As a woman grows older the chances of miscarriage are more. At the age of 20 to 30 the pregnancies ending in miscarriage is about 15 % while the percent of miscarriages increases with the age.

Why do most miscarriages occur?

• It cannot be said clearly why miscarriages occur. Most of the times it is a genetic problem and not because of carelessness. The early miscarriages are generally due to genetics and cannot be prevented.

• Some reasons of miscarriage could be heaving drinking and smoking. If you do not take proper care of yourself and take alcohol.

• Another factor could be that you are undergoing a lot of stress.

• At times medical tests could be the reason for a miscarriage.

Does a miscarriage mean some kind of health problem?

If a woman has a miscarriage that does not mean she has some health problem or she cannot become a mother again. There are a number of women who become mothers after a miscarriage and there are also women who had more than one miscarriage and become mothers. Though continuous miscarriages could be indications of some health problems and need medical help. At times medical tests could be the reason for a miscarriage.

What are the symptoms of miscarriages?

• If there is vaginal bleeding that could be followed by brownish discharge then it could a warning of a miscarriage.

• If there is pain in the lower back or abdomen then it could be an indication of miscarriage.

• Another symptom is pain in the pelvic area.

• A gush of fluid from the vagina without pain or bleeding.

• Spotting or bleeding without pain.

• Heavy bleeding along with severe pain.

If a woman experiences any kind of bleeding it is best to visit a doctor and have a check up. The doctor will check the shape and size of the uterus. She could also have an ultrasound to see the image of the uterus and baby. An ultrasound will confirm the heartbeat of the baby. You could also undergo a blood teat known as Complete Blood Count to asses the amount of blood you have lost.

When a woman looses pregnancy it is recommended to take rest and proper care. It would be best if she could share her feelings with someone she loves and trusts. It will make her feel lighter and recover fast. Pregnancy after miscarriage is possible therefore the woman who has had a miscarriage should be consoled and convinced that she can give another try and that this is not an end.

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Inborn Heart Disease

2008-04-07T13:49:00.001-07:00

You sure may have heard about 'blue babies.' But please don't get it wrong. The 'blue' should not be in any way taken as a reference to their bloodline. Blue babies are not descendants of royal families and noble clans. Well, at least, not necessarily. Blue babies are actually infants inflicted with one of the many possible inborn heart defects. To your surprise, there are even cases of 'pink babies.'

Congenital heart disease is the abnormal formation of the heart, usually of the large blood vessel. The word congenital means being present at birth. So congenital heart disease means a heart's defect already present at the onset of birth. Since this kind of defect is already present the moment a human life is born, the condition is most prevalent, if not exclusive, among new born babies. Defects affecting the heart are actually the most ordinary birth defects, causing most of the inborn abnormality-related death cases. Just like most defects affecting the heart, inborn heart disorder is an abnormality to the flow of the blood. It may be in the form of obstruction or incorrect flow pattern.

Of all possible inborn abnormalities, inborn heart defect accounts for eight in every 1,000 cases, close to 1% of newborn babies. A major factor of this disease being congenital is genetic predisposition. Genetic influence accounts for the 5 percent of all babies with inborn heart defects. Genetic diseases such as Apert syndrome, Conradi syndrome, Crouzon syndrome, Carpenter syndrome, Cornelia de Lange syndrome, and cutis laxa are identified by medical research and studies to increase the risk of having inborn heart defects. Mothers having diabetes mellitus, specifically those who have deficient glucose level in the blood during pregnancy, are very likely to give birth to babies with inborn heart defects. Also, pregnant women with phenylketonuria (PKU)and poor diet have high chances of having babies with inborn heart defects. Many pregnant women having retinoic acid treatment for acne increases the risk of their babies having inborn heart disorders. Anticonvulsant drugs (hydantoins or Dilantin) and valproate taken during pregnancy also increases the risk of babies having inborn heart defects.

Disorders in the chromosomes also contribute as high risk factors of inborn heart defects. This factor is known to account for the 3% of infants with inborn heart defects. Down's Syndrome is a chromosomal disorder leading to inborn heart defects. On rough estimates, almost half of kids having Down's syndrome also suffer from inborn heart disorders. Patau syndrome and Edwards syndrome are also chromosomal defects known to be high risks factors of inborn heart disorders. Turner syndrome, a disorder in the sex chromosome (having only one x chromosome), places 40 percent risk rate of inborn heart defects. Albeit its lower risk level than the others, environmental components are also contributory to risks of inborn heart defects. German measles and alcoholism of pregnant women can lead to their babies being born with heart defects.

It may be a great wonder for many why pre-birth detection cannot be done to diagnose inborn heart defects. This is so because the fetuses' blood circulation inside the womb is different from how it is after birth. No need to further elaborate on how do they differ. The point is that the difference leads to bringing to light the inborn heart defects. Usually, inborn heart disorders are only detected once symptoms like shortness of breath, skin discoloration, fainting, dizziness, inferior appetite, and poor growth are observed.

'Blue babies' and 'pink babies' are the most common but just two of the many types of inborn heart defects. 'Blue babies' or cyanotic defect is the bluish discoloration of the skin due to poor oxygen supply in the blood. 'Pink babies' or acyanotic defect, on the other hand, is the abnormal shunting (left to right vasculature) or the absence of oxygen. Other types of inborn heart defect are Hypoplastic heart defects (underdeveloped parts), Atrial septal defect, Eisenmenger's complex, Ventricular septal defect, endocardial cushion defect, Ebstein's anomaly, and many others.

There exists no single, universal treatment for inborn heart defects. The kind of treatment needed depends on the particulars of each specific case. The type of the inborn heart defect, age, general health condition, and heart size will all matter in determining the necessary treatment. Surgery is the most common option, though.

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The Importance Of Genetic Counseling While Planning A Pregnancy

2008-04-07T13:45:00.000-07:00

Some couples who consider pregnancy planning may consider opting for genetic counseling. A genetic counselor will perform certain tests to determine if there are any risks to the couple having a baby, what those risks are, the limitations on account of the risks, the consequences it may have on the baby, and the options that are available to the couple.

A genetic counselor may perform carrier tests and screening test to evaluate the couple and the risk factor. If it turns out that both parents are carriers, each of their children has a 25% chance of inheriting the disease. Neural tube defect, spina bifida and anencephaly are detected by taking tests such as the alpha-fetoprotein (AFP) test. Heart defects, malformations of the head, face, body, limbs etc. can be discerned by an ultrasound test. Genetic and developmental disorders are detected by amniocentesis and Down’s syndrome can be detected by Chorionic villus sampling. The cost of these tests range from $100 to $2000.

Genetic counseling can help identify possible genetic disorders such as thalassemia, sickle cell disease, cystic fibrosis and tay-sachs disease. Thalassemia is a blood disorder that is common among people of Mediterranean, African and Southern Asian descent. Sickle cell disease is a blood disorder that is common in African-Americans. Cystic fibrosis is a disease of the lungs and digestive system common among Caucasians. Tay-Sachs disease is a disease that causes fatal brain damage and occurs more in people of Eastern European Jewish ancestry. These tests will possibly eliminate the need to perform tests during pregnancy.

When To Consider Genetic Counseling

Physicians may recommend a visit to a genetic counselor if the age of the mother is above 35 years of age. This is because older moms are at risk of giving birth to children with problems such as Down's syndrome. If the parents are closely related, they may need genetic counseling too. If the parents have a birth defect themselves, or have a previous child with genetic defects or mental retardation, they may consider getting tested.

One of the important tasks during pre pregnancy planning could be a visit to a genetic counselor if the parents have sexually transmitted disease, a history of miscarriage or still births. Neonatal death of a previous child, physical deformity of a parent, infertility, a history of certain illness in the family etc. are other factors that require genetic counseling too.

If the parents suffered from any infections during pregnancy that may be contagious, or have a history of any disease condition such as epilepsy , early onset of heart disease, Alzheimer's or multiple sclerosis etc., they may be required to consider genetic counseling to find out if it is ok for them to go ahead and have children.

Some couples may be exposed to harmful teratogens that may require them to opt for genetic counseling. Heavy metals, radiation, solvents, fumes, toxic substances, chemicals such as pesticides etc. may cause birth defects so it is better to avoid contact with such substances from the pre pregnancy stage.

It is recommended that couples read books about the various genetic problems that may exist and the risks associated with such problems. In the event that a risk factor has been identified, you may be given a detailed analysis on how to deal with it during genetic counseling.

Genetic counseling helps to avoid pregnancy complications and pregnancy risks.

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Just What is Downs Syndrome?

2008-03-28T19:10:00.000-07:00

It's unfortunate that many people today just don't have the proper understanding of Downs Syndrome and what exactly this means. Some make wrong assumptions about those with this condition, their abilities, and their intelligence level. It's true that many with Downs Syndrome have typically lower than average cognitive abilities, but only a very small percentage of those with this condition are impaired enough to need constant supervision or to keep them from functioning on their own.

The actual condition itself is caused by a disorder of the chromosomes, with all or part of an extra twenty-first chromosome. There are some physical characteristics that are common among those with Downs Syndrome, including almond-shaped eyes caused by a fold in the eyelids. Some also have a particular type of crease on the hands, shorter limbs than average, poorer muscle tone than average, and a protruding tongue. Those with Downs Syndrome are often easy to spot because of these physical characteristics, but rarely do any of those with this condition have physical abnormalities that would keep him or her from functioning in normal circumstances. There is also an increased risk for heart defects, acid reflux disease, ear infection, sleep apnea, and often thyroid disease or disorders. Other than these conditions, those with Downs Syndrome rarely have any type of severe physical limitations or concerns.

This condition is different for everyone that has it in severity and limitations. However, most of those with Downs Syndrome are able to be integrated into public schools, sports, and the workplace. They may have certain limitations when it comes to their understanding of complex concepts but typically can handle money and a budget, manage their own apartment or home, and can also care for a baby when needed. The majority of those with this condition can care for themselves and their family as well as anyone else.

It's very shortsighted to assume that anyone with Downs Syndrome is severely disabled or unable to function or make decisions on his or her own. Again, this condition affects each patient differently, but the vast majority is just as functioning as anyone else.

Some years ago there was a very popular television series that revolved around a young man with Downs Syndrome, his family, and his schooling. They portrayed how successful he was in fitting in with other classmates, making decisions about his own activities, and even in running for class president. The TV series was very realistic about his limitations as well, but was an honest portrayal of what it's like to have this condition. Anyone with Downs Syndrome should be considered as capable and functioning as anyone else, and should be given every chance to succeed.

DO NOT GIVE CALCIUM SUPPLEMENTS. It is believed that large unused quantifies of calcium inn the downs syndrome fetus was a major contributing factor in causing the health related problems. Common Vitamins and over the counter products may help with Downs Syndrome.

Boron is known as the calcium helper and assists calcium absorption and utilization in the body.

Vitamin E promotes the natural body healing mechanism and oxygen to the heart and other muscles in the body. In addition it improves circulation.

Ginkgo is needed for the proper functioning of the vascular system and for improving blood circulation to the brain.

Vitamin B is known to help maintain the normal vasodilatation.

Amino Acid helps regulate growth, digestion and maintaining the body's immune system.

Oat Bran helps to regulate blood glucose levels, aids in lowering cholesterol, and helps in the removal of toxins.

Vitamin C is essential for defending the body against pollution and infections and enhances the immune system.

Always consult your doctor before using this information.

This Article is nutritional in nature and is not to be construed as medical advice.

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Fetal Alcohol Syndrome

2008-03-28T19:07:00.000-07:00

The ill effects of alcohol consumed during pregnancy causes a pattern of mental and physical defects in some unborn babies, known as Fetal Alcohol Syndrome. Fetal alcohol syndrome was named in 1973 by two dysmorphologists, Kenneth Lyons Jones and David W. Smith of the University of Washington Medical School in Seattle.

In the United States, there are more babies born with fetal alcohol syndrome than HIV or Downs Syndrome. A child born with FAS may be seriously handicapped, possibly requiring a lifetime of special care. Most of the disabilities of FAS are caused by a pregnant woman consuming alchohol between the 10th and the 20th week of pregnancy.

Alcohol interferes with the ability of the fetus to receive sufficient oxygen and nourishment for normal cell development in the brain and other body organs. FAS is characterized by abnormal facial features, growth deficiencies, and central nervous system problems. People with FAS have problems with learning, memory, attention span, communication, vision, hearing, or a combination of these. FAS is a permanent condition and affects every aspect of an individual’s life.

Fetal alcohol spectrum disorders (FASDs) is a term describing the range of effects that can occur in an individual. FASDs include FAS as well as other conditions in which individuals have some but not all of the clinical signs of FAS.

In the United States, FAS rates range from 0.2 to 1.5 per 1000 live births. Other FASDs are believed to occur approximately three times as often as FAS.

FASDs are preventable if a woman does not drink alcohol during pregnancy. Fathers can play an important role by encouraging mothers not to drink. In 1989, the U.S. Congress passed a legislation that made it mandatory for warning labels to be placed on all alcoholic beverage containers. In 2005, the U.S. Surgeon General issued an advisory on Alcohol Use in Pregnancy to raise public awareness. It is expected that such steps will contribute to a reduction in the number of cases of Fetal Alcohol Spectrum.

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Natural Vitamin

2008-03-13T13:00:00.000-07:00

Natural vitamins are derived directly from food sources. Vitamins that are found naturally in some types of foods come with different components like enzymes, co-enzymes and co-factors. All these components work together to produce their intended biologic effects. For instance, bioflavonoids are co-factors found in Vitamin C.

The majority of vitamins that are sold in pharmacies, grocery stores and vitamin shops are synthetic vitamins. They are only isolated portions of the vitamins that occur naturally in food.

It is best to get vitamins from whole foods since they provide complete vitamins rather than fractions of them. In many cases, whole foods also provide the minerals that are necessary for optimal vitamin activity. For example, sunflower seeds are an excellent whole food source of vitamin E and the mineral selenium, which work together to create optimum health benefits.

In the last decade, research has confirmed that synthetic vitamins are dangerous, whereas the same vitamins from foods show no evidence of harm. In 1995, a direct co-relation between consumption of synthetic vitamin A and birth defects was established in a four-year study involving 22,748 pregnant women. The results showed a 240% increase in birth defects when the women took 10,000iu per day and a 400% increase in risk from taking 20,000iu per day of synthetic vitamin A. No birth defects or other risk were found in actual foods containing vitamin A. No amount of consumption of naturally occurring vitamin A, even liver containing as much as 30,000iu in three ounces, showed any evidence of contributing to birth defects.

It is best to use nutritional supplements that list actual foods as an ingredient. While some synthetic and isolated vitamins have been shown to provide minimal health benefits, on the whole, most of them cause more harm than good. Most doctors these days recommend natural vitamin sources for their patients.

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Antidepressants and Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn

2008-03-13T12:55:00.000-07:00

When the drug Paxil was initially released into the market it was hailed, arguably, as the next greatest step forward in the antidepressant and signature drug line and the start of a long expected boom in that industry. Paxil (or paroxetine) is used to treat a number of conditions such as obsessive compulsive disorder, stress, anxiety attacks, panic attacks and of course it is most popularly known for treating symptoms of depression.

While it is reasonably effective in fulfilling its intention, there are certain side effects of taking the Paxil drug that could pose a problem to certain groups of people. These side effects have since been confirmed to be much more severe than initially thought, causing the Food and Drug Administration to increase its warning on Paxil.

One of the worst and most tragic side effects of the Paxil drug was observed in the offspring born to pregnant women that took the drug during their pregnancy. It caused damage to the fetus and many children were born with either a heart or lung defect, and a condition known as , Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn or PPHN for short. The astounding number of reports of children born with birth defects has made the whole tale a sad one and in response to this, on September 27, 2005, the FDA issued a strong warning to pregnant women about the risk of Paxil causing birth defects. In addition to this warning, Paxil labels now include the risk of birth defects but it is a step that has come far too late for some families.

A closer look at PPHN

Paxil belongs to a class of drugs referred to as selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors. All drugs in this class are used to treat conditions similar to the ones that Paxil is effective for. Multiple SSRIs, including Paxil have been linked to the PPHN condition due to the absorption of some of the ingredients into the placenta of a pregnant woman and the eventual damaging of the developing fetus.

Persistent Pulmonary Hypertension of the Newborn is a condition that is similar to normal hypertension but is occurring in newborn infants. Infants can not breathe because of the constriction of blood vessels and the cutting off of oxygen to the blood. PPHN can also be responsible for causing severe damage to organs like the brain and the kidneys, both of which are very sensitive to changes in blood oxygen content. Because the problem occurs in newborns and actually happened at a stage of development before birth, the defects can be very severe and cases where newborns are not able to recover despite rigorous and prolonged treatment are not uncommon.

It is very important to note that while Paxil does cause these birth defects, it is not the only SSRI drug to do so. Pregnant women, if taking any SSRI and especially Paxil, should consult their Doctor before doing so and should only take the drug under medical supervision for the duration of their pregnancy. Women that act otherwise are risking that the child they are carrying might potentially be born with a severe lung or heart defect.

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What Do You Need to Eat for an Active Pregnancy?

2008-03-11T20:13:00.000-07:00

Maternal weight gain closely relates to infant birth weight, but how much food do you need to eat and how much extra weight is a healthy amount to gain? Low birth weight babies have a greater incidence of malnutrition, which increases the chances of birth defects and illness.

It is important for a woman to increase her calorie intake when pregnant and doctors suggest that the proper weight gain for a pregnant woman is 25-30 pounds. Typically the extra weight gain can be broken down as follows.

Infant at birth - 7½ pounds
Placenta - 1 pound
Blood increase - 4 pounds
Uterus increase - 2½ pounds
Amniotic fluid - 2 pounds
Breast increase - 3 pounds
Fat stores - 5-10 pounds

Low birth weight babies are typically born to women who gain less that 20 pounds in weight with women gaining more than 35 pounds in weight probably adding excess bodyfat. In the first three months most women gain about 2-4 pounds, although some women can lose weight due to suffering with morning sickness. After the first three months, the average weight gain is about 1 pound a week.

The recommended calorie allowance for women of childbearing age is 2000 calories a day, plus 300 extra calories a day to support pregnancy. If the mother is exercising then additional calories will need to be added depending on the type of exercise performed, its duration and how often it is performed. Increased carbohydrates and the associate fibre from good carbohydrate food choices are important for an exercising pregnant woman as she will need the additional energy for her exercise and the developing baby's growth requirements.

The bodyfat that has been built up during the first six months of pregnancy is typically burned up during the last three months of pregnancy, with an additional 9 pounds of fat used for lactation and breast-feeding. Breast-feeding is a great way for the mother to get back in shape after childbirth as it uses 600-1100 extra calories above normal requirements to support lactation.

All vitamin requirements increase during pregnancy, however one vitamin in particular that is more important to pregnant women is folic acid, a B-complex vitamin. Folic acid requirements double during pregnancy and research has shown that folic acid taken in the early stages of pregnancy may prevent serious birth defects such as neural tube defect.

A pregnant woman performing exercise must also pay attention to fluid intake to replace body losses due to sweating and perspiration. Plenty of fluids also helps to keep the body cool and prevent a rise in body temperature which could harm the developing baby.

A balanced diet, with extra protein, carbohydrates, iron and calcium together with proper fluid intake will ensure a safe and healthy pregnancy for all active mothers-to-be.

For further advice on pregnancy health and nutrition, visit
http://www.pregnancy-guidelines.com
http://pregnancyguidelines.blogspot.com

What You Should And What You Shouldn't Do During Pregnancy

2008-03-11T20:10:00.000-07:00

When hearing every day different versions of what to do and what to avoid you surely wonder which steps you should actually follow.

Make sure you eat proper food, healthy for you as well as for your unborn child. Certain food such as unpasterized milk, cheese, fish and uncooked meat can cause miscarriages and all kind of birth problems.

When you had any contact with cats see a doctor about toxoplasmosis. It is caused by a parasite called Toxoplasma Gondi and can cause malformations, miscarriages or other birth defects.

Premature birth, miscarriages and low birth weight can also be caused by smoking during pregnancy period. It is absolutely forbidden to smoke while you are pregnant! Also second hand smoke can cause you harm so avoid being in smoking areas! Problems for your pregnancy can also cause a larger than 300 milligrams caffeine per day as we know larger amounts of coffee can harm you all the time.

Pregnancy problems can be caused by chemical cleaners, aerosol cans, solvents and paint fumes. If you really insist on doing the housework yourself try to be more careful and avoid the stairs area while cleaning.

Try to avoid sauna and hot baths during pregnancy, keep your fluids level and your body temperature constant especially in the first trimester. It can keep you from having problems with your pregnancy such as birth defects.

Keep in mind the fact you must completely avoid alcohol and any kind of drugs. It can always harm you too; think about the effects on a growing embryo or fetus. Cocaine was proven to stop the oxygen getting to the child. Cocaine can also create an addiction to the unborn child.

Exercise is also very important during pregnancy although it can harm if you abuse on it. Highly trained sportswomen should decrease their normal rhythm. Walking a bit every day can help you feel better and prepare for labor.

Talking about Do’s and Don’ts we must understand that needs are different for every woman. That is why our advises should not replace medical consult and supervise.

For more information visit
http://www.pregnancy-guidelines.com
http://prenancyguidelines.blogspot.com

Defective Drug Side Effects

2008-03-11T12:56:00.000-07:00

Paxil is a popular antidepressant that has a several dangerous side effects, birth defects, pregnancy risks, birth injuries, and may even cause death. Dangers of persistent primary hypertension in newborns also called PPHN.

Although Paxil is used primarily to treat depression, many doctors use it to also treat panic disorders, anxiety, and post traumatic stress disorder in millions of people around the world. The Food and Drug Administration advised doctors that prescribing Paxil to children and teenagers could significantly increase the likelihood of violence and suicidal tendencies.

Furthermore, Paxil may also cause a number of serious birth defects. In recent studies, it was revealed that Paxil significantly increased the number of congenital heart defects such as primary pulmonary hypertension in developing fetuses. Two independent studies revealed that among women who took the during their first three months of pregnancy had babies with Paxil heart birth defects at 1.5 to 2 times the rate of normal births.

The side effects from the withdrawal from Paxil are also a serious concern for patients. Glaxo, the company behind Paxil, recently had to remove from the packaging of the drug, the statement that their drug was not addictive. Whether or not to include a Paxil warning on the packaging for the drug has yet to be determined. Another recent study has linked Paxil to a potential increase in deaths among patients who have coronary artery disease. The study revealed after three years of follow treatment, 21.4% of people with CAD on antidepressants died compared to 12.5% of those not on the drug.

Paxil is the brand name of the anti-depressant drug paroxetine used in the United States and Canada. Paxil is categorized in the selective serotonin reuptake inhibitor (SSRI) class of anti-depressants. It has been used to treat depression 1992.

For more information visit
http://pregnancyguidelines.blogspot.com
http://www.pregnancy-guidelines.com

Why Is Folic Acid Important When Trying To Get Pregnant?

2008-03-11T12:52:00.000-07:00

What is Folic Acid?

Folic acid is a B vitamin which is needed by the body to make new cells. Everybody needs folic acid but during pregnancy when new cells are formed in the baby and therefore more folic acid is needed. If a woman has enough folic acid in her body before she is pregnant, it can help prevent major birth defects of her babies brain and spine. These birth defects are neural tube defects. Women need to take folic acid every day, starting before they are pregnant to help prevent Neural Tube Defects (NTD).

How much of extra Folic Acid should be taken?

Folic acid occurs naturally in food like green leafy vegetables. But CDC & doctors recommend that women should take folic acid tablets once every day to prevent defects of her baby's brain and spine. Recommended dose is 400 mcg of Folic Acid every day.

CDC (Center for Disease Control, USA) recommends every woman of child bearing age to take Folic Acid 400 microgramme (400 mcg) every day to prevent birth defects.

Why should women take folic acid before being pregnant?

Women should take folic acid before pregnancy to prevent birth defects of the brain and spine, as these happen in the first few weeks of pregnancy, often before a woman finds out that she is pregnant. All women should get in the habit of taking folic acid daily even when they are not planning to get pregnant. For folic acid to help, a woman needs to take it every day, starting before she becomes pregnant.

Why should you take Folic acid when you make effort to eat a healthy and nutritious diet?

You might think that you can get all the folic acid and other vitamins you need from the food you eat each day. But it is hard to eat a diet that has all the nutrients you need every day. Even with careful planning, you might not get all the vitamins you need from your diet alone. That's why it's important to take a vitamin with folic acid every day.

For more information visit
http://www.pregnancy-guidelines.com
http://prgnancyguidelines.blogspot.com

Myths About Down Syndrome That Everyone Should Know

2008-03-11T10:01:00.000-07:00

Down Syndrome is a genetic chromosomal syndrome affecting physical features and causing mental retardation. Down Syndrome is caused by having an extra third copy of chromosome 21. Down Syndrome can be diagnosed prenatally in the womb during pregnancy using several different tests including ultrasound, amniocentesis and CVS.

Diagnosis after birth can usually be done from examining the baby’s physical and facial features such as:

Flattened face

Snub nose

Flattened nasal bridge

Upward slanting eyes

Short neck

Enlarged and protruding tongue

Abnormally shaped ears

Short stubby hands

Short stubby feet

Infant not crying much

Below are some of the major myths about Down Syndrome. Each myth is debunked with the truth concerning one specific aspect of Down Syndrome.

Myth: Down Syndrome is a rare genetic disorder.
Truth: One in every 800 to 1,000 birth is a child with Down Syndrome condition. This figures represents approximately 5,000 births per year.

Myth: Most children with Down Syndrome are born to older parents.
Truth: 80% of children with Down Syndrome are born to women under 35 years of age. However, as the age of the parents increases, so does the incidence of births of children with Down Syndrome condition.

Myth: Children with Down Syndrome are severely retarded.
Truth: Children with Down Syndrome have an I.Q that falls between the mild to moderately retarded range. Children with Down Syndrome can be educated. However, educators and researchers have not been able to verify and document the full educational potential of Down Syndrome children.

Myth: Most people with Down Syndrome are institutionalized.
Truth: In recent years, Down Syndrome children are seen in the public together with the families, going about their educational, social and recreational activities. Some adults with Down Syndrome have also seen to work in café and fast food chains.

Myth: Adult with Syndrome are unemployable.
Truth: As society’s acceptance and understanding towards adults with Down Syndrome children increases, businesses around the world are employing young adults with Down Syndrome for a variety of positions.

Myth: Adults with Down Syndrome are unable to form close interpersonal relationship leading to marriage.
Truth: Many adults with Down Syndrome are able to socialize and form ongoing relationship such as courtship and marriage. Although women with Down Syndrome can have children, but the chances of getting a Down Syndrome child is 50%.

Myth: People with Down Syndrome condition can never be cured.
Truth: As the medical research advances, it was identified that the gene on chromosome 21 is responsible for Down Syndrome. Scientists believe that there is a possibility in the future to improve, correct and prevent the varies problems related to Down Syndrome.

For more information visit
http://pregnancyguidelines.blogspot.com
http://www.pregnancy-guidelines.com

What is Down Syndrome?

2008-03-11T09:55:00.000-07:00

Every year, one child in every 800 to 1,000 births will be born with a condition known as Down syndrome. Down syndrome is a disorder in which the child has extra genetic material. This extra genetic material causes the baby to develop differently in the womb. This abnormal development occurs during the early stages of cell division, soon after conception.

There is no known reason for Down syndrome or a cure for it.

The disorder came by its name when an English physician, John Langdon Down, published a description of the characteristics of a person with the condition in 1886. Since Dr. Down was the first person to give the syndrome a name, the disorder is known as Down syndrome.

The Common Forms of Downs

There are three distinct forms of Down syndrome. The most common form is Trisomy 21. This is when a child has an extra chromosome 21.

Instead of having 46 chromosomes in each cell (23 from the father and 23 from the mother), he has 47. Ninety-five percent of children born with Down syndrome have Trisomy 21.

Translocation is another form of Down syndrome and makes up 3 to 4% of the population of people with the disorder. Translocation occurs when part of chromosome 21 breaks off and attaches to another chromosome, changing the genetic makeup. In this form of Down syndrome, each cell has the normal 46 chromosomes, but there is extra genetic material from the broken off chromosome.

The third and final form is called Mosaicism, and is the rarest form of Down syndrome, occurring in only 2% of all cases. Mosaicism happens when some of the cells in the forming embryo have 46 chromosomes, and some have 47. Thus, the alternating pattern gives it the name Mosaicism.

People with Mosaicism may not be as affected with the physical and/or developmentally delayed characteristics of those born with the other two forms of Down syndrome.

Common Physical Traits

Babies with Down syndrome are usually diagnosed at birth or shortly thereafter. Because Down syndrome affects a child physically, there will be certain features that an alert doctor or nurse will pick up on. Most children with the syndrome will have some or all of these traits.

Among the most common physical characteristics are:

• Low muscle tone
• Small nose and flat nasal bridge
• An upward slant to the eyes (almond shaped)
• Small skin folds on the inner corner of the eyes
• Tongue large for size of child’s mouth
• Small, sometimes abnormally shaped ears
• A single crease across the center of the palm
• Fifth finger, the pinky, has only one crease instead of two
• Larger than normal space between the large and second toe
• Joints are hyper flexible, able to extend greater than average

These physical traits are characteristic of a baby with Down syndrome, but in order to determine if a child does indeed have the disorder, a chromosome analysis will need to be performed.

This is done by taking blood from your baby and the analysis will be done in a laboratory. Your doctor will notify you of the results.

Jane Orville is the mother of a 17 year old Daughter with Down Syndrome and has spent years researching and compiling all the wisdom she has gained into a simple guide to assist parents deal with the concerns of raising a child with Down Syndrome.

For more information visit
http://www.pregnacy-guidelines.com
http://pregnancyguidelines.blogspot.com

Antidepressants and Atrial Septal Defects

2008-03-10T20:31:00.000-07:00

The Atria of the heart are responsible for processing both arterial and venous blood with one atrium responsible for the blood to the arteries and the other atrium responsible for the blood coming in from the veins. In order to prevent the mixing of these two blood groups (which could have consequences on the overall maintenance of the body) the heart has evolved a wall between the two atria.

This wall, known as the interatrial septum or sometimes simply just the septum, is responsible for regulating blood flow and preventing arterial and venous blood from mixing with each other. In a baby before birth, the lungs are too poorly developed to constantly ensure well oxygenated blood traveling through the developing fetus and as such the mother’s lungs are largely responsible for ensuring that the baby fetus receives well oxygenated blood up until their birth.

To facilitate this and allow venous blood direct access to the circulatory system, the interatrial septum does not develop fully until very close to childbirth as at that point in human development it would be counterproductive to do so. This septum, however, is necessary in any human that has developed beyond the pre-birth stage. The lack of an interatrial septum or the lack of a fully developed one is known as an atrial septal defect (people in this condition sometimes also are referred to as having ahole in heart) and this type of defect can cause pulmonary hypertension as well as result in some blood pressure complications at later stages of life, making it a potentially big problem.

Where Paxil Comes In

In late September of 2005, the FDA strengthened its warning on Paxil and the risk of birth defects was added to the label of the drug, warning all pregnant women that taking the drug could result in birth defects such as their child being born with a hole in heart defect. Paxil is a drug used by people of all kinds in order to help them with conditions like clinical depression, anxiety, stress, obsessive compulsive disorder and panic attacks.

The problem with pregnant women taking the drug is that it can cause birth defects (some which are quite severe) and as a study released in December of 2005 showed, pregnant women that took Paxil were much more likely to give birth to a child that was born with some kind of defect. The study was a double-blind experiment (which meant that none of either the control group of women or the study group of women was aware of which procedure they were following in the study) and the difference was severe enough to be statistically significant. Paxil has been linked to many different birth defects and the atrial septal defect is just one of them.

A baby born with an atrial septal defect can experience a wide range of symptoms because of it, many of which will cause physical pain to the child. The best way to avoid your child potentially being born with an atrial septal defect due to use of a drug like Paxil is to simply avoid taking any drugs like Paxil during your pregnancy. If this is not possible, consult your physician and do not deviate from the advice they give you. Doing so could mean the difference between a healthy child and one with a defect such as the atrial septal one.

To learn more visit
http://www.pregnancy-guidelines.com
http://pregnancyguidelines.blogspot.com

Pregnancy and Diabetes

2008-03-10T12:43:00.000-07:00

When you are pregnant, there are many things that you can do to ensure your health and the health of your baby. When you have diabetes, it is essential that you take extra precautions to have a healthy pregnancy. Studies show that babies born to women with diabetes are at a greater risk for birth defects because high blood glucose levels and ketones can pass through the placenta to the baby.

The most important thing you can do to ensure a healthy baby is to make sure that your diabetes is in control before you get pregnant. The better control you have of your blood glucose levels, the less chance your baby has of being born with a birth defect. Many of your babies organs are formed before you even know you are pregnant so the time to take control of your diabetes is before you try to conceive a child.

During pregnancy, careful monitoring of your diabetes will help your pregnancy to progress smoothly. If you have type 1 diabetes, being pregnant will bring changes to your insulin regiment. While you are pregnant, you will need more insulin, so your doctor will put you on a schedule to slowly increase the amount you take each month. As the placenta produces certain hormones, it causes your body to require more insulin. These hormones are important to your baby's growth, but they block the action of your insulin, meaning you will have to increase your dosage.

If you have type 2 diabetes, you might have to switch the type of oral medication that you take. Some medications, such as metformin are safe during pregnancy, but not all diabetic medications are recommended for pregnant women. Some women with type 2 diabetes are given insulin shots for the duration of their pregnancy, because it is safer than oral medication. If you control your diabetes through diet, you might need to see a dietician to help you plan menus that take into account your baby's nutritional needs.

You can also help your doctor treat you by maintaining careful records of what you eat, exercising regularly, and making sure that you eat at regularly scheduled times. If you don't have a regular exercise routine before you get pregnant, don't start a strenuous program. Choose low impact exercises such as walking, low impact aerobics, or even swimming.

Once your baby is born, your blood glucose levels may be hard to monitor. The hormones that are going through your body can make your glucose levels unpredictable, but continue to monitor them and take your medication. If you plan to nurse, talk to a dietician about planning a menu that provides the extra nutrients you need and helps keep your blood sugar levels stable.

Having a baby is a wonderful experience. Making sure your diabetes is under control when you are pregnant helps you to enjoy your pregnancy more.

To learn more visit
http://www.pregnancy-guidelines.com
http://pregnancyguidelines.blogspot.com

Pregnancy Complications - Minimize Complications With Vitamin C

2008-03-10T10:42:00.000-07:00

Pregnancy consists of two very common and strongly felt effects for expectant mothers – the joy of giving birth on the one hand and the fear of pregnancy complications on the other. Most women fear if their pregnancies end up with negative outcomes like premature birth of babies etc. As per the recommendations of the American Journal of Clinical Nutrition, vitamin C plays a role in reducing the intensity of various types of complications that may arouse during pregnancy. A small quantity of vitamin C contributes a great deal in alleviating complications that may affect both baby and mother in the second trimester of pregnancy.

What Is Premature Birth?

Premature birth is commonly known as delivering of the baby prior to the due date. Normal pregnancy is said to end at about forty weeks. In clinical language, a premature birth marks the delivery of the baby before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Premature delivery takes place when the membranes or the wall of the sac that supports growth of the baby and contains amniotic fluid appears to break or ‘rupture’. Across the world, about 10 to 20 percent of the pregnancy cases may end up in this Premature Rupture Of Membrane or PROM.

Premature birth implies delivery of baby before complete pregnancy development in the womb. Therefore, babies delivered prematurely show several complications in them. First of all, due to premature delivery the baby feature improperly developed legs, lungs and other limbs. This is why those underdeveloped organs may not function as they do and cause various health complications such as infections. The main reasons to contribute to the increase in the risk of PROM are smoking habit, lack of proper nutrition, infections in vaginal areas during the months of pregnancy.

How Far Is Vitamin C Beneficial In Minimizing Pregnancy Complications?

Inadequate amount of Vitamin C in the pregnant woman’s body is supposed to be the main cause of pregnancy complications. The cells in the bodies of expectant mother are not supposed to be deficient of vitamin c as it is an important ingredient to produce and repair connective tissues in the body. Moreover, vitamin c plays a vital role in restoring the membranes or the walls of the sac to prevent PROM. This is the reason why medical experts advise adequate consumption of fruits and vegetables enriched with vitamin C. Vitamin C is also a good source of antioxidants to fight against free radicals and environmental damages.

Several studies have been conducted to establish the significant contribution of vitamin c to reduce the likelihood of pregnancy complications. Studies prove that women who consumed vitamin c in sufficient amounts have been found to have a lower risk of premature birth than those with lower vitamin C intake. This conclusion related to vitamin C were made after studies were undertaken that observed notable changes in 120 women with random intake of 100 mg of vitamin c supplements or use of placebo. All these 120 women were healthy and were pregnant for 20 weeks. The evaluations were taken every four weeks starting from their twenty week of pregnancy. Women with this vitamin c intake lessened their incidence of pregnancy complications by 74 percent in comparison to those who did not consume vitamin C.

During your pregnancy, you should try to avoid pregnancy complications. Pregnancy is the most important phase of life and you should stay healthy and fit during all 40 weeks of pregnancy.

For more information visit
http://www.pregnancy-guidelines.com
http://pregnancyguidelines.blogspot.com

The Do's and Dont's of Pregnancy, To Avoid Birth Defects

2008-03-09T20:14:00.000-07:00

With so many people giving their opinion on what to do and what not to do during pregnancy, it becomes hard to determine what is fact and what is fiction. Below is a list of some of the more important factors to consider in regards to pregnancy do's and dont's.

Food during pregnancy
Certain foods need to be avoided during pregnancy. Listeria, which is caused by uncooked meats, some seafood, unpasterized milk and soft cheeses, can cause birth defects, miscarriages and stillbirth.

Cat litter
Toxoplasmosis, is a disease which is contracted by contact with cat feces. It is spread by a parasite which can lead to miscarriages, stillbirth and birth defects.

Smoking
Smoking during pregnancy is definitely a no no. It has been linked to a low birth weight, miscarriage and premature birth in many different studies. Second hand smoke poses the same dangers during pregnancy, and should be avoided at all costs.

Caffeine
Some studies on caffeine during pregnancy have led to the conclusion that the two do not mix well together, as caffeine may increase the possibility of miscarriage and low birth weight. On the other hand, other studies have shown no link between the two. Obviously an excessive amount of caffeine is a bad idea regardless of pregnancy. An excessive amount of caffeine is generally regarded as over 300 milligrams per day. If you stay well clear of this figure, caffeine during pregnancy is less likely to cause problems.

Safety around the house
There are many hazards around the house for pregnant women, but almost all can be easily avoided. If you still insist on doing all the house work yourself, try to stay clear of aerosol cans, industrial strength cleaners and fumes from paint, solvents and strippers. All of the above have been linked to birth defects and other pregnancy complications. It also pays to take it a little easier around certain parts of the house such as stair cases.

Body temperature
Keeping a moderate body temperature during pregnancy (especially during first trimester) is important as it may lead to birth defects. It is a good idea to keep an eye on your temperature during exercise and keep your fluids up. Things such as saunas and hot baths are not recommended during pregnancy.

Alcohol and drugs
To be safe with alcohol during pregnancy it is probably best to avoid it altogether, as there is no safe level of consumption. It can have detrimental affects on an unborn child. In comparison to a fully grown woman, a baby is very small, so you could imagine the potential damage to the baby if the mother was drunk or even tipsy. Drugs during pregnancy have been shown to have a negative effect. Drugs such as cocaine have been shown to hinder the development of a baby’s vital oxygen and nourishment, leading to complications such as birth defects and even an addiction in the child itself.

Exercise
Exercise during pregnancy is recommended for most women, but only at a moderate pace. Women who participated in high impact exercise, weight lifting, contact sports, high altitude training or scuba diving before pregnancy, will have to readjust their routines. Walking is highly recommended for at least the first two trimesters, as it can help your body withstand the rigors of labor and delivery more easily.

The do's and don’ts of pregnancy are different for each woman and each pregnancy. The above information is not a medical opinion and should not substitute a professional medical opinion. Always consult your doctor or care provider before making any major decisions before, during and even after pregnancy.

To learn more visit
http://www.pregnancy-guidelines.com
http://pregnancyguidelines.blogspot.com

What Are Steps To Take Before Becoming Pregnant,, To Avoid Birth Defects?

2008-03-09T20:10:00.000-07:00

The whole dynamic of pregnancy is an incredible process. In this section, I include some insight into possibly giving birth to a completely healthy baby. The removal of toxins, and eating healthy are a start to producing a birth defect free baby.

What Are Tips For Getting HealthyPregnancy?

For the woman, she should get off the pill if she's on it. Also, eating healthy, maintaining her weight and to avoid smoking and taking drugs should help the woman get on track for getting pregnant. The man should be careful taking certain medications, and to eliminate exposure to chemicals.

Remove Toxins

It really is amazing to me that more people don't know about the harmful effects of toxins ( chemicals, metals, insecticides, pesticides, food additives and preservatives). Cleanses are ideal for clearing the body of harmful toxins that could be responsible for birth defects in babies. I think it would be a great idea to do a full body cleanse prior to becoming pregnant.

Eating Healthy

There are more foods these days that have preservatives and food additives, which actually cause sickness and disease at an alarming rate. A typical diet these days consist of over 70% processed foods, which also means up to 70% of the food is denatured. Preservatives and poisonous drugs are similar in the fact that both of them have the same illness causing effects on body tissues. For example, coal tar a studied cancer-causing agent is often used for coloring and flavoring. Here is a list of birth defect causing preservatives and food additives:

Mono-and Di-glycerides- Can cause birth defects and cancer. They are found in breads, pies, cakes, ravioli's, peanut butter, and margarine.

Propyl Gallate- Can cause birth defects and damage the liver. They are found in potato sticks, chewing gum, pickles and meat products.

Red Dye 40- Maybe a cancer suspects and causes birth defects. They are found in cereals, baked goods, red sweets, red soft drinks, and Frankfurters.

There are too many babies being born with birth defects and the knowledge in this section an additional information on my website will help to reduce the chances of more birth defects.

To learn more visit
http://www.pregnancy-guidelines.com
http://pregnancyguidelines.blogspot.com

What Are Steps To Take Before Becoming Pregnant, to avoid birth defects?

2008-03-09T19:59:00.000-07:00

What Are Tips For Getting Pregnant?

Remove Toxins

Eating Healthy

Mono-and Di-glycerides- Can cause birth defects and cancer. They are found in breads, pies, cakes, ravioli's, peanut butter, and margarine.

Propyl Gallate- Can cause birth defects and damage the liver. They are found in potato sticks, chewing gum, pickles and meat products.

Red Dye 40- Maybe a cancer suspects and causes birth defects. They are found in cereals, baked goods, red sweets, red soft drinks, and Frankfurters.

There are too many babies being born with birth defects and the knowledge in this section an additional information on my website will help to reduce the chances of more birth defects.

To learn more visit
http://www.pregnancy-guidelines.com
http://pregnancyguidelines.blogspot.com

Introduction to Causes of Birth Defects

2008-03-07T23:14:00.000-08:00

This is my first post in the blog I decided to choose this topic of the blog as most of the parents are not fully aware of the causes of birth defects.

Sometimes birth defects just happen and are not caused by anything that the parents did or didn't do. Many parents feel guilty if they have a child with a birth defect even if they did everything they could to have a healthy child. If you have a child with a birth defect, it might be helpful to talk with other parents who have had a child with the same condition.
Sometimes the causes of birth defects are figured out after the baby is born. Whenever possible, it is important to know what you can do for a better chance of having a healthy child in the future. I hope that the information in my blog will be helpful in indentifying the causes of birth defects.
To learn more visit
http://www.pregnancy-guidelines.com
http://pregnancyguidelines.blogspot.com