Pregnancy Week By Week (Week 29)

Week 29 Fetus

Must-ask Questions this Week (Week 29)

What causes varicose veins?

These are fine bluish, purplish or reddish lines that manifest under the skin of legs, ankles and vulva. They are caused by a weakness in the small veins that carry blood to the heart. You are more prone to varicose veins if

• You have gained lots of weight

• You have a family history

• This is your second or subsequent pregnancy (varicose veins worsens with each pregnancy)

It tends to be a problem because the weight of the growing uterus places pressure on the veins passing through the pelvic region and legs. Progesterone which causes the walls of the blood vessels to relax worsens the situation for those who are predisposed to this problem. However you can help yourself by

• Not standing for long periods

• Not sitting with crossed legs

• Elevating your legs whenever possible

• Avoiding underwear with tight elastic around the legs or abdomen as this interferes with blood flow

• Exercising regularly

• Using support stockings which are tight around the ankles


This problem tends to go away after delivery when the uterus shrinks back to normal, progesterone is no longer in high levels and the weight has been shed. Minor surgery or laser treatment to totally remove them is an option. Read Full Article


I have itchy, inflamed patches of skin under my breasts and abdomen. How can this be treated?

This seems like a skin rash caused by a fungal infection that is prevalent when folds of skins are in close contact and prevents sweat from evaporating naturally. Overweight women are more prone and the affected areas are usually under the breasts and the groin area. Antifungal cream is able to treat this problem. You can prevent intertrigo by washing the areas often and powdering with talcum powder or cornstarch. If the itching is severe calamine lotion along with the antifungal cream may help. Consult your doctor on medicated creams.


Can I do anything to prevent hemorrhoids during pregnancy?

This condition is when firm swollen pouches form under the mucus membranes both inside and outside of the rectum; it is quite a common problem during pregnancy. In short hemorrhoids are actually varicose veins of the anus. Some suffer throughout pregnancy while others develop them during the pushing stage of labor.


Hemorrhoids are caused by

• straining to empty the bowel triggered by constipation or uncontrolled diarrhea

• high levels of progesterone which affects the veins in the anal canal

• the pressure of baby's head on the pelvis during the later part of pregnancy which causes interference in blood flow in the pelvic region


You can prevent the situation with these measures

• Prevent constipation by ensuring sufficient fluid intake

• Eat plenty of high fiber foods

• Exercise regularly

• Don't strain during bowel movements


If you already have this problem, you can lessen the pain and itching by

• Keeping the anus region clean with gentle washing

• Soaking in sitz bath (a shallow basin placed over the toilet bowl)

• Not sitting for long durations over hard surfaces

Although most such situations go away with time, some may require minor surgery. Seek your doctor's advice before you start on any medication for this condition.

• Read Full Article

Some Basic Pointers (Week 29)

Hypertension

The medical term for raised BP is hypertension. BP reading is normally given in 2 figures e.g. 120/70. Doctors are more concerned about a rise in the lower number, the diastolic pressure which is a measure of your heart rate when you are resting. If you are aware of having high BP, inform your doctor before conceiving. With proper medical attention, your pregnancy and labor can be normal and uncomplicated except that you will probably be admitted to the hospital earlier. If you develop raised BP at a later part of pregnancy, then it is a sign of preeclampsia, a condition you should take seriously. The difficulty with taking BP readings is that your emotional state may cause you to be anxious and stressed thereby aggravating the situation. The higher measurement or the systolic tends to be affected. Having been diagnosed with this, it is advisable to rest plenty and limit your physical activities so that there is less strain on your heart. Practice relaxation techniques wherever applicable, especially when you go for your antenatal checkups.


Preeclampsia

This condition is also known as preeclamptic toxaemia (PET). This is a potentially serious condition more prevalent amongst first time mums and women carrying more than one baby. It can occur more commonly in the 2nd part of the pregnancy. The cause is not known but it is genetically determined to a large extent i.e. it runs in the family. Once you have preeclampsia you and your baby will be monitored closely, possibly in a hospital or special day care unit so that delivery can be arranged before the onset of any serious complications. This condition shows no outward signs, hence making it more frustrating for women who feel totally normal. Your caregiver will be alerted of its presence if

• You have raised BP, especially if it is constantly high for a few weeks

• Protein is found in your urine, indicating a possible damage to your kidneys

• Your feet, ankles, hands are swollen. These swellings can affect your face, neck causing puffiness to your eyes and neck region

• There is a sudden unexplained weight gain

Your Nutrition (Week 29)

Depression during pregnancy can occur due to both simple and complex reasons. Changes in hormone impacts you at an emotional and physical level and can cause you to feel nausea, exhaustion and mood swings. Having a baby involves having a change to your personal circumstances - there is loss of freedom and even cause old buried fears and anxieties to reappear. Symptoms are negative feelings, mood swings and or detachment, disturbed sleep, panic attacks and change in appetite. You can include yoga into your schedule; it has proven to be effective in helping you deal with depression. Forms of yoga are many but they all aim at balancing your mind and body thus leading you to physical relaxation and improved well-being. Pay attention to your diet as nutritional deficiencies play a role by causing your hormones to go out of whack. Zinc deficiency is common during pregnancy; eat zinc-rich foods such as eggs, sunflower seeds and wholemeal bread. Also boost your intake of vitamins C and B complex. Avoid sugary foods and stimulants such as caffeine and alcohol which has an adverse effect on mood. Discuss your feelings with a counselor or friend.