And Baby Makes Three

THERE’S probably nothing more unnerving for an adult than having a baby, especially in a DINK set-up. Though visiting kin will eventual...

THERE’S probably nothing more unnerving for an adult than having a baby, especially in a DINK set-up. Though visiting kin will eventually come into the picture, the crucial first months are largely about individual decisions and gut feelings.

What’s the key to a healthy baby?
A healthy mother. From embryo to foetus to birth, the health of the mother is crucial to the health of the child.

How do I prepare?
‘‘A normal couple without unhealthy habits do not need to make lifestyle changes,’’ says Dr Indrani Ganguly, senior consultant in gynaecology at Sir Ganga Ram Hospital, New Delhi. But if you drink or smoke, quit before you try to get pregnant. Some medicines and ailments also impact the baby.

Story continues below this ad

Since you probably won’t know if you’re pregnant for the first three or four weeks—the time when your baby’s major organs and structures are forming—experts advise that you behave as if you’re already carrying a child when trying to conceive.

I’m overweight (or underweight). Does it matter?
Try to reach a healthy weight before conceiving. Women who are very overweight or underweight may have more problems with the baby. A weight-loss diet during pregnancy or in the run-up is a complete no no.

Any other taboos?
‘‘Avoid exposure to toxic substances and chemicals at work and at home. Even second-hand smoke increases risk of miscarriage or a baby with a low birth weight,’’ says Ganguly. ‘‘Alcohol and illegal drugs such as cocaine can cause birth defects.’’

When does the doc come into the picture?
Get a check-up before you try to conceive. Conditions like diabetes require intensive pre-pregnancy consultations.

Story continues below this ad

DADDY DOs

• Discuss your presence at birth with your partner. Most mums-to-be are calmed and reassured by the presence of their partners
• Your most important role is as supporter. Don’t be shocked, though, if you are shouted or sworn at
• If you’ve discussed the labour, you can communicate her needs and wishes
• The simplest things, such as having cool drinks ready or massaging her back, can be real morale boosters

When do I stop taking birth control pills?
‘‘Usually, you should stop birth control pills at least one month before you want to conceive. Then menstruation resumes and your cycle can be tracked,’’ says Ganguly. ‘‘However, it will not hurt the baby if you get pregnant right after going off the pill.’’

And genetic diseases?
Certain conditions make genetic evaluation essential:
• The older the mother is—especially over 35—the higher the risk for a baby with Down Syndrome or other genetic problems
• Indians and Middle Easterners need to be checked for sickle-cell disease and thalassaemia

Any other tests in the run-up period?
• Check for sexually transmitted diseases (HIV, syphilis) and treat gonorrhea and chlymadia before pregnancy
• You need an MMR booster shot (against measles, mumps and rubella) at least a month before you conceive
• If you’ve never had chicken pox, get two shots at least a month before pregnancy
• You might need a set of hepatitis B vaccines if you have not had them before

Day after PM Modi’s visit to the town, Manipur’s Churachandpur sees violent protest

India8 hr ago

Protests in Manipur's Churachandpur turned violent as two men were arrested for damaging decorations for PM Modi's visit. The crowd demanded their release and attempted to storm the police station. The men were eventually released after a bail hearing. The incident occurred after a clash between locals and police on Thursday, but the situation had calmed down before Saturday's visit.

View all shorts

Live Blog