And when you write in, please note that we cannot answer all the questions we receive. So if you have any urgent medical query, please contact your Doctor.

• I usually feel a pricky, pulsating pain in the left side of my tummy during ovulation every month, around 12-13 days after the first day of my period. We have been trying for a baby for 4 months now, by timing intercourse around ovulation but no results. Is this pain causing any problem? Should I check with a doctor or can I wait for 2-3 more months?  
  
  A. How long have you been married? If it is more than a year or if your age is close to or more than thirty, you can consult a Gynaecologist. If not, keep trying for a year. The ovulation pain is quite normal and that is not the reason for not conceiving. By the way, I hope you are taking your prenatal vitamins i.e., Folic Acid. All the best!
• My period was due on the 7th of September. I did a urine pregnancy test today but it was negative. Is it still possible that I could be pregnant? When should I take a second test?  
  
  A. It is perhaps too early to get a conclusive result since you are only two days late (as on the date you emailed me). You can wait for up to ten days to two weeks before you take another test. During this time please get enough rest, eat well and avoid all kinds of stress. Also, for your own sake please try to avoid the temptation to take a test over and over again as it will only frustrate you. Wait for the time period suggested above and if you still have not got your period, re-take the test. All the best!
• I have been trying to conceive for 3 years . I have a retroverted uterus and I'm desperate for a baby. 
  
  A. Firstly, please do not feel anxious. Many women who have a retroverted uterus worry that it will affect their fertility but this fear is unnecessary. You can still experience healthy pregnancies. Please visit a doctor to check for any other fertility issues. One suggestion is to try the missionary position and the rear entry position as it could be beneficial. Try to avoid positions that are against gravity. All the best!
• I am 36yrs old and 20 weeks pregnant. Is it safe for me to take a 5 hour flight at this stage? I have no complications in my pregnancy. 
  
  A. It is ok to travel as long as you take some necessary precautions. Please visit your gynecologist a few days before your scheduled departure and do a scan. If the placenta is low-lying, there is a possibility of some pain and bleeding if you remain sitting for a long period of time. You can also ask your doctor to prescribe medicines which should be taken at least 2 days before travel to prevent premature labor.
• Which is the safe period for intercourse to avoid pregnancy? 
  
  A. If you have a normal menstrual cycle (i.e. 28 days), then you will ovulate somewhere between the 12th and 16th day of your cycle (the first day of your period is counted as the first day of your cycle). This 'unsafe' period i.e. period of high chance of pregnancy is from the 9th to 20th day following your period. The safe period is the 1st and last week of your cycle.
• Is it safe to use hair removing cream on delicate areas? 
  
  A. Yes, it is safe. However, as with any chemical application to the skin, make sure you are not allergic to the product. This can be done by carefully following the instructions that come with the product.
• My baby is getting darker. Will he regain is old color? 
  
  Q. My husband, elder child and myself are fair complexioned. When my younger child was born, he was fair like us but now, 4 months later he has darkened quite a bit. Will he regain his old color? Is there anything I can apply to make him fair?
  A. It is too early to determine the color of your baby's skin. It is normal for the skin color to vary initially but this will eventually become stable. Please remember that the color of your baby's skin does not reflect his health. If your baby is healthy, you need not worry about his complexion.
• How do I lighten stretch marks after delivery? 
  
  A. Regular application of No Marks cream will show results. However, remember that it will take some time to see a difference so be patient.
• My baby's age is 6 months and she hardly has any hair. What do I do? 
  
  A. The rate of hair growth varies for each individual. The color, texture and other such aspects of the hair are genetically determined. At 6 months it is too early to say whether there is any real problem. It is advisable to wait for two years - your little girl is likely to have lots of hair by then!
• Is weight a factor for a late or risky pregnancy?  
  
  Q. I weigh 70kgs with a height of 5.3. I usually sweat a lot and am working in a IT firm. 5 months into my marriage, everyone is expecting me to get pregnant but they say that this is possible only after I reduce my weight. It really bothers me a lot. Is weight a factor for a late or risk pregnancy?
  A. Yes, you need to reduce your weight to around 55kg which is the normal weight range for your height. Apart from your problems with conceiving, being overweight poses many other health risks. So with a regular exercise regime and diet modifications you will be able to increase your quality of life. Also, consult a doctor and check your hormone levels to rules out any imbalances.
• How do I soften the skin on my stomach during pregnancy?  
  
  A. You can apply Vitamin E cream or pure Olive oil on the stomach from the 2nd trimester itself to promote elasticity of the skin and reduce the severity of stretch marks. Continue this application after delivery as well for a minimum of 42 days.
• Is it possible to gauge the health of a child by its cry? 
  
  Q. I am an undergraduate student who studies Information and Communication Technology at Mahidol University, Thailand. Right now, my friends and I are conducting a research study about the sounds made by a baby. Is it possible to gauge the health of a child by its cry? How accurate is this? Will it work for babies over 3 months?
  A. I'm not sure what prior research on this suggests but I can say this - ask any mother and she will tell you that she can often judge what exactly her infant is crying for. Most pediatricians will tell you the same. I believe that experience is the best teacher and will enable one to gauge the reason for the baby's cry.

  Also note that if the baby cries for more than twelve hours, it is advisable to consult a doctor.

• I am terrified of sex and childbirth. What do I do? 
  
  Q. I have been married for two years and I am really scared to have sex as I am under the impression that having sex is very painful. I also have this fear that giving birth to a child is also a painful process. Hence I have already told my husband that if I conceive I will only go in for caesarean. I need your help. I am ready to take the medication to overcome this fear.
  A. My first advice to you is, relax! You first need to develop a casual relationship with your husband and open up to him. The more you talk opening about your fears, the easier it becomes to deal with it. Sexual intercourse can be a very pleasurable experience but you and your husband need to spend quality time together and overcome this fear together.

  As far as childbirth is concerned, yes it is painful but remember that more than 60% of women in India have vaginal births. I recommend you read a book by Dr. Nutan Pandit called 'The Nutan Pandit Lamaze Program for Childbirth'. In this book Dr. Pandit has suggested various breathing techniques that will not only help you relax and calm your nerves, but will also prove beneficial during your pregnancy and delivery.

• I have endometric cysts. Can I conceive without surgery? 
  
  Q. We have been trying for a baby for the past one year. We have seen a doctor and gone through all sorts of tests and have been cleared of all risks. I have been diagnosed with an endometric cyst on the left side for which I have been advised laproscopic surgery. Is there any chance for me to avoid having this surgery and still get pregnant?
  A. Consult your doctor and enquire about medication to reduce the endometric nodules. It is possible to treat this with a course of medication. Following your course of medication, take another scan and if the cyst still persists then you will have to undergo a laparoscopic surgery.
• I had a blighted ovum induced miscarriage. Can I conceive again? 
  
  Q. I had a miscarriage in my first trimester, the reason being blighted ovum. Also I have been diagnosed with PCOS and was under treatment before conception . Are there any chances of a successful pregnancy the next time or should I lose hope?
  A. There is absolutely no reason to lose hope! PCOS is not a dreadful condition and a once blighted ovum need not re-occur every time. You can definitely conceive again. I would advise conducting a thorough investigation before trying to conceive again, to be on the safe side. But do not lose hope!
• Why do they prescribe iron tablets during pregnancy? 
  
  A. During pregnancy the body's demand for iron increases. In general Indian women tend to iron deficient. It is therefore advisable to take iron tablets to supplement your diet.
• I am 20 weeks pregnant with a 2.8cm cervical length. Should I be worried? 
  
  Q. I am 20 weeks pregnant. My TAS is normal but my cervical length is 2.8cm. I have typical pain on standing which relived by taking rest. I am taking Isoxsuprim 40mg BD. Should I be worried about a risky pregnancy?
  A. From the information you have provided, it does not seem like there is any risk involved. Your cervical length is within normal range.
• I had a C-Section and my belly is protruding. What can I do to flatten it? 
  
  A. You can begin a regular exercise regime after 4 months from the date of delivery. Regular gym exercises and a modified diet will give you results.
• Is my baby getting enough milk? 
  
  Q. My baby is 2 months old and she drinks milk only for 2-3minutes. I'm worried whether she's getting enough milk.
  A. After her feed, if she sleeps for 3 hours, then she is getting enough milk and has a full tummy. Don't worry about the time duration she takes to drink her milk. Also watch for progressing weight gain. These are signs that she is getting enough milk.
• I need to know whether the baby will have the same blood group of the parents. 
  
  A. It is not necessary that the baby will have the same blood group of the parents.
• I have dryness and itching in my nipples and breast. Is it common?  
  
  A. It is very common to have dryness and itching of the nipples. The breast undergoes many changes during pregnancy and so does the nipple. It is important to take care of your nipples. You can use any cold cream or moisturizing cream to relieve dryness and itching.
• I am 30yrs old and trying to conceive for 1 year. Should I go in for an IUI? 
  
  Q. I am 30years old and have been planning for children for a year now. My menstrual cycle is usually for 26 days and I bleed for just 2 to 3 days .I have done away with all the tests for fertility except for endometrial biopsy. My husband and I are in good health. What could be the problem with me? Should I go for IUI?
  A. There is no need to consider IUI at this stage. Also, do not presume that the problem lies with you alone. Your husband must go through medical tests as well. Remember that 30 years is not very late and you need not lose hope. Consult your doctor who will suggest a course of action.
• I am 29 years old and trying to conceive. Can acupressure increase my fertility? 
  
  A. You need to consult a Doctor and conduct a complete investigation to determine if there is any problem.
• When can I resume sexual intercourse after delivery? 
  
  Q. I just had a baby 8 weeks ago. When is it safe to resume sexual intercourse? Can I get pregnant so soon after a pregnancy?
  A. You can resume sexual relations 42 days after your delivery. It is better to delay pregnancy for a year at least for the benefit of your health. Use contraceptives to avoid an unplanned pregnancy. If you are already pregnant, don't worry - you can still have a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.
• Will the pill affect my fertility? 
  
  Q. I had irregular and painful periods for a long time. I was prescribed Diane 35 to regulate my periods and I feel the pills are very convenient and have given me good results. Will these pills affect my fertility? I have been taking it for one year now. Is it harmful to continue?
  A. Diane 35 will not affect your fertility. Since you have been on the pill for a year now, it is advisable to undergo hormonal investigations to ascertain if further usage of the pill is required. If you are overweight, you must reduce your weight.
• Will the laptop affect my fertility? 
  
  Q. I use a laptop for long durations and most often it is kept on my lap. Can the heat or radiation from the laptop affect my fertility?
  A. It is unlikely that laptop heat or radiation will affect your fertility but if you are still concerned, please place the laptop on a desk and away from your body.
• How do I treat keeloids formed after a C-Section? 
  
  A. You need to consult a dermatologist who will prescribe a steroid-based ointment to treat the keeloids.
• I suffer from frequent migraines. What medication is safe to take while pregnant? 
  
  A. During pregnancy you can take any form of paracetamol for pain relief.
• I am suffering from sever post natal depression. What do I do? 
  
  A. Remember that you are not alone. Many women experience exactly what you are going through and the severity can vary greatly. I urge you to reach out to your family and friends for their help and support. If you still feel depressed, talking to a counselor will help you immensely. Remember, what you are experiencing is normal and you can get better if you are willing to get help!
• I'm pregnant and my in-laws want a grandson. How do I cope with this demand? 
  
  A. I understand the stress this must be putting on you. My advice to you is to gently remind your in-laws that the sex of the baby is a complex mix of chromosomes and genetics and that you are not in control. Do not take their pressure to heart and remember that the most important thing is to have a safe pregnancy and a healthy baby. All the best!
• How often should I have sex while trying to conceive? 
  
  A. As often as possible! This is especially true during the most fertile time of your cycle. First, become familiar with when you ovulate so that you can maximize your chances of getting pregnant. Some couples who have been trying to conceive for several months may begin to feel like it is a chore. If you know that one time of the month is more likely to produce results, this may help to relax at other times of the month.

  Sex every couple of days (at the minimum) during ovulation should produce the desired results. Be aware that sperm can live for 48 to 72 hours (two to three days) if the conditions of your cervical mucus are right.

  When you are trying to get pregnant, make sure you have had a checkup with your gynecologist and get started on prenatal vitamins.

  And don't forget to have fun! Good luck!

• I'm on fertility treatment. Is there anything I can do to prevent the side effects of fertility drugs? 
  
  A. You can prevent abdominal upsets by taking your pills with food. And applying ice to the area where you take your injections before your shot, and heat afterward, can help prevent pain and bruising.

  However, you can't do much to relieve other common symptoms such as mild ovarian swelling, breast tenderness, insomnia, blurred vision, irritability, bloating, and weight gain. But you can rest assured that they're completely normal.

  If you're feeling overwhelmed, anxious, or depressed, talk to a willing friend, support group, or professional. You can also read the "Coping with fertility treatment".

  Whatever your symptoms, don't suffer in silence. Tell your doctor. She may be able to modify your dosage or switch you to another medication. Also, if you have any severe symptoms such as vision changes, shortness of breath, sharp abdominal pain, sudden distention, nausea, vomiting, excessive weight gain, or decreased urine output, call your doctor immediately. You may need medical attention.

• I have had an abortion in the past, will it affect my chances of getting pregnant? 
  
  A. Probably not. However, in rare cases, multiple dilations and curettages (the cleaning out of the uterus, also known as a D&C) can cause some scarring at the top of the cervix or inside the uterus. A procedure called hysteroscopy (when a small camera is placed through your cervix into your uterine cavity) can be used to check for this problem and can usually repair the scar tissue at the same time.

  But even if that's not the case for you, you should know that any procedure that dilates the cervix (a necessary step during most abortions) can weaken it. So if you've had more than one abortion and you miscarry again later on, you may find that you have what's known as an incompetent cervix - a cervix that starts dilating prematurely. This can sometimes be treated with a stitch (called Cerclage) to keep the cervix closed. On the bright side, having conceived before proves that you ovulate and that your fallopian tubes are open.

• I don't want to have an episiotomy (surgical cut in the vagina), when I deliver my baby. Is there anything I can do in preparation that will help me avoid one? 
  
  A. You could try massaging your perineum (the area around your vagina), at around 34 weeks. Daily perineal massage may increase the area's stretching ability, thereby minimizing the chances for an episiotomy and fewer natural tears.

  Try this technique yourself, with clean hands and trimmed nails, or have your partner do it for you. If you are doing it alone, have a large mirror handy so you can see what you're doing and to help familiarize yourself with your perineal area.

  • Sit in a semi-reclined position in a warm, comfortable area, spreading your legs apart. Lubricate your fingers, thumbs, and perineal area with vitamin E oil (from punctured vitamin E capsules), pure vegetable oil, or personal lubricant. Don't use baby oil, mineral oil, or petroleum jelly
  • Place your thumbs about 1 to 1 1/2 inches (to or just past your first knuckle) inside your vagina and spread your legs. Press down toward the rectum and toward the sides at the same time. Gently and firmly continue stretching until you feel a slight burn or tingling.
  • Hold this stretch for about two minutes - until the tingling starts to subside
  • Now slowly and gently massage the lower part of the vagina back and forth, hooking your thumbs onto the sides of your vagina and gently pulling the tissue forward, as your baby's head will do during delivery. Keep this up for three to four minutes.
  • Finally, massage the tissue between the thumb and forefinger back and forth for about a minute

  Be gentle because a vigorous touch could cause bruising or swelling. During the massage, avoid pressure on the urethra (urinary opening) as this can lead to irritation or infection.

  Of course, perineal massage isn't for everyone and it may not help in every case. The most important thing you can do is to choose a Doctor who's experienced and comfortable delivering babies without doing episiotomies. Regardless of the type of practitioner you choose, discuss your wishes and expectations with your Doctor before the birth.

• Why does my baby hiccup so much? Sometimes I'm afraid he's choking. Is regular hiccupping normal? 
  
  A. Regular hiccupping is definitely normal and nothing to be concerned about. Most babies develop hiccups even while in the womb. During pregnancy, the mother may notice regular, rhythmic movements that last from a few minutes up to as long as 30 minutes. These hiccups can begin as early as the first trimester, but most moms don't become aware of them until the baby gets bigger-generally in the second trimester.

  Why Baby Hiccups:
  Hiccups occur when the diaphragm (the muscle that helps us breathe) contracts forcefully. Though the cause or reason is not known, one theory about in-utero hiccups suggests that this regular, rhythmic diaphragm workout may help Baby with breathing when she's born.

  In general, hiccups seem to bother parents more than they bother the baby. If the hiccups are prolonged and are interrupting a feeding, some babies will start to fuss. But generally, as the baby gets older, the sessions will space out. Usually by a year of life they will be much less frequent. Some babies that have gastroesophogeal reflux (GER) may be more prone to hiccups.

  Dealing with Baby's Hiccups:
  If you really want to curb Baby's hiccups, you can try:

  • Letting her feed at the breast or taking sips from a cup or bottle. This can sometimes help the diaphragm relax.
  • Sitting the baby up and comforting her until they pass.

  In general, the key to getting rid of hiccups is time. Hiccups will pass, and tricks will not usually work to make them go away. If you are still concerned, ask your pediatrician.