Every two minutes, a woman dies during pregnancy or childbirth, according to the latest estimates released today in a report by United Nations (UN) agencies. The report, ‘Trends in maternal mortality’, reveals alarming setbacks for women’s health over recent years, as maternal deaths either increased or stagnated in nearly all regions of the world. “While pregnancy should be a time of immense hope and a positive experience for all women, it is tragically still a shockingly dangerous experience for millions around the world who lack access to high quality, respectful health care,” said Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, Director-General of the World Health Organization (WHO).  “These new statistics reveal the urgent need to ensure every woman and girl has access to critical health services before, during and after childbirth, and that they can fully exercise their reproductive rights,” he added. Read More: UNICEF lauds Bangladesh’ breakthrough to accelerate universal birth registration The report, which tracks maternal deaths nationally, regionally and globally from 2000 to 2020, shows there were an estimated 287,000 maternal deaths worldwide in 2020. This marks only a slight decrease from 309,000 in 2016 when the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) came into effect. While the report presents some significant progress in reducing maternal deaths between 2000 and 2015, gains largely stalled, or in some cases even reversed, after this point. In two of the eight UN regions – Europe and Northern America, and Latin America and the Caribbean – the maternal mortality rate increased from 2016 to 2020, by 17% and 15% respectively. Elsewhere, the rate stagnated. The report notes, however, that progress is possible. For example, two regions – Australia and New Zealand, and Central and Southern Asia – experienced significant declines (by 35% and 16% respectively) in their maternal mortality rates during the same period, as did 31 countries across the world. Read More: Majority of children with disabilities are not enrolled in any formal education: Survey  “For millions of families, the miracle of childbirth is marred by the tragedy of maternal deaths,” said UNICEF Executive Director Catherine Russell.  “No mother should have to fear for her life while bringing a baby into the world, especially when the knowledge and tools to treat common complications exist. Equity in healthcare gives every mother, no matter who they are or where they are, a fair chance at a safe delivery and a healthy future with their family.” In total numbers, maternal deaths continue to be largely concentrated in the poorest parts of the world and in countries affected by conflict. In 2020, about 70% of all maternal deaths were in sub-Saharan Africa. In nine countries facing severe humanitarian crises, maternal mortality rates were more than double the world average (551 maternal deaths per 100,000 live births, compared to 223 globally). Read More: More Rohingya female teachers need training for increasing literacy among their community  “This report provides yet another stark reminder of the urgent need to double down on our commitment to women and adolescent health,” said Juan Pablo Uribe, Global Director for Health, Nutrition and Population at the World Bank, and Director of the Global Financing Facility.  “With immediate action, more investments in primary health care and stronger, more resilient health systems, we can save lives, improve health and well-being, and advance the rights of and opportunities for women and adolescents.” Severe bleeding, high blood pressure, pregnancy-related infections, complications from unsafe abortion, and underlying conditions that can be aggravated by pregnancy (such as HIV/AIDS and malaria) are the leading causes of maternal deaths. These are all largely preventable and treatable with access to high-quality and respectful healthcare. Community-centered primary health care can meet the needs of women, children and adolescents and enable equitable access to critical services such as assisted births and pre- and postnatal care, childhood vaccinations, nutrition and family planning. However, underfunding of primary health care systems, a lack of trained health care workers, and weak supply chains for medical products are threatening progress. Read More: When classrooms are child-friendly and safe, children are motivated to learn, research shows Roughly a third of women do not have even four of the recommended eight antenatal checks or receive essential postnatal care, while some 270 million women lack access to modern family planning methods. Exercising control over their reproductive health – particularly decisions about if and when to have children – is critical to ensure that women can plan and space childbearing and protect their health. Inequities related to income, education, race or ethnicity further increase risks for marginalized pregnant women, who have the least access to essential maternity care but are most likely to experience underlying health problems in pregnancy. "It is unacceptable that so many women continue to die needlessly in pregnancy and childbirth. Over 280,000 fatalities in a single year is unconscionable,” said UNFPA Executive Director Dr. Natalia Kanem.  “We can and must do better by urgently investing in family planning and filling the global shortage of 900,000 midwives so that every woman can get the lifesaving care she needs. We have the tools, knowledge and resources to end preventable maternal deaths; what we need now is the political will." Read More: Bangladesh ranks top among the countries to receive free Covid vaccine from WHO: Health minister The COVID-19 pandemic may have further held back progress on maternal health. Noting the current data series ends in 2020, more data will be needed to show the true impacts of the pandemic on maternal deaths. However, COVID-19 infections can increase risks during pregnancy, so countries should take action to ensure pregnant women and those planning pregnancies have access to COVID-19 vaccines and effective antenatal care. “Reducing maternal mortality remains one of the most pressing global health challenges,” said John Wilmoth, Director of the Population Division of the Department of Economic and Social Affairs. “Ending preventable maternal deaths and providing universal access to quality maternal health care require sustained national and international efforts and unwavering commitments, particularly for the most vulnerable populations. It is our collective responsibility to ensure that every mother, everywhere, survives childbirth, so that she and her children can thrive." The report reveals that the world must significantly accelerate progress to meet global targets for reducing maternal deaths, or risk the lives of over 1 million more women by 2030. Read More: There are more than 2.3 million cases of breast cancer that occur each year: WHO

Staying healthy and fit during the days of pregnancy can assist in the proper growth of the unborn child. By consuming a healthy diet, a pregnant mother can get the proper proteins, vitamins, minerals, and nutrients required by her body and the fetus. To support the health of a pregnant mother and baby's growth, the mother’s regular diet should include plenty of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, protein, and fat-free or low-fat dairy products. Here are some of the best foods and drinks for women who are expecting. 13 super-nutritious foods and drinks for pregnant mothers Whole grains Nutrients: In contrast to their refined counterparts, whole grains are brimming with vitamins, fiber, and plant-based chemical compounds. Health Benefits: Certain whole grains, such as oats and quinoa, have a good amount of protein. They also trigger missing points during pregnancy, such as B vitamins, fiber, and magnesium. Required amount per day: 6-8 servings of grain during pregnancy.  Read How to Stay Physically Active during Pregnancy Sweet potatoes Nutrients: Calories, Water, Protein, Carbs, Sugar, Fiber, Fat Health Benefits: Carotenoids from sweet potatoes may reduce your risk of getting cancer. Sweet potatoes contain compounds that can help regulate blood sugar levels. Studies have shown that sweet potatoes may reduce cholesterol levels. LDL is "bad" cholesterol which could reduce your risk of developing heart issues. They are abundant in beta carotene. It is a plant-based compound that converts into vitamin A by your body. Vitamin A is vital for the growth of babies. Beware of high levels of animal-based sources of vitamins, including organ meats, that can cause toxic effects. Required amount per day: A pregnant woman's diet should contain about 90 milligrams of Vitamin C daily. A teaspoon of sweet potatoes will give at least a third of the amount. Read Postpartum Depression, Mood Swings: How can new moms deal with these issues? Legumes The food group includes legumes, peas, lentils, chickpeas, soybeans, and peanuts. Nutrients:  Legumes are surprisingly healthy. It includes B Vitamins, Iron folate, calcium, zinc, phosphorus, magnesium, and iron. Health Benefits: Folate is among the most important B vitamin (B9). It's essential for your baby and you, particularly during the first trimester. Required amount per day: A pregnant mother needs at least 600 milligrams (mcg) in folate. Read Postpartum Weight Loss: How to lose baby weight fast after pregnancy Eggs Nutrients: One egg is approximately the equivalent of 147 milligrams (mg). An egg contains a small number of calories, 7 grams of high-quality quality protein, 5 grams of fat, and 1.6 grams of saturated fat. It also comes with vitamins, iron, carotenoids, and minerals. Eggs are full of anti-inflammatory nutrients, such as zeaxanthin and lutein. Health Benefits: Eggs are an excellent source of choline, an essential nutrient for pregnant women. It's critical to the brain development of babies and can help to prevent the development of abnormalities in the spine and brain. Required amount per day: Consuming two eggs daily during pregnancy will help a pregnant mom gain the protein and nutrients required.  Read Pregnancy Care Tips for Summer: How can pregnant mothers beat the heat? Broccoli, leafy and greens Nutrients: Vitamin A, Vitamin K, Vitamin C Manganese, Vitamin B6 Calcium, Copper, Potassium Magnesium, Manganese Health Benefits: Broccoli and dark, green vegetables like Kale or spinach are rich in the nutrients you'll require. They're an abundance of goodness from the green. Incorporating portions of green vegetables is an excellent method of absorbing vitamins and avoiding constipation because of the amount of fiber. Vegetables are also associated with a decreased chance of having a baby with low birth weight. Required amount per day: For pregnant women, experts recommend eating 2 cups of fruit. Read Pregnancy Anxiety? How to reduce the stress of pregnant mothers? Proteins and lean meats Nutrients: Lean meats like beef and chicken are excellent sources of high-quality protein. Beef is high in iron, choline, and other B vitamins, which are necessary for more significant amounts during your pregnancy. Health Benefits: Iron is a mineral essential utilized by the red blood cells as a component of hemoglobin. You'll require more iron because the volume of blood is growing. Iron is especially crucial in the third trimester of your pregnancy. Low iron levels in early and mid-term pregnancy can cause anemia caused by iron deficiency. Iron deficiency can increase the chance of having a low birth weight. Required amount per day: Most pregnant women need to consume around 70g of protein daily to meet their daily requirements.  Read 10 Post- Pregnancy Skincare Tips: Get Your Glow Back Berries Nutrients: Berries contain a wealth of goodness within their tiny packaging, including water and nutritious carbs, vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants. Health Benefits: Berries have a relatively low glycemic index and, therefore, should not trigger significant increases in blood sugar. They are also fantastic snacks packed with both fiber and water. The best fruits to consume during pregnancy include blueberries, raspberries, strawberries, goji berries, and Acai berries. Try this blueberry juice to get some ideas. Required amount per day: 5 cups a day along with other fruits at the beginning of the pregnancy and 6 cups a day by the third trimester.  Read Eating Disorders in Children, Adolescents, Adults: Types, Causes, Symptoms, Ways to Help Dried fruit Nutrients: Dried fruit is rich in nutrients, calories, and diverse minerals and vitamins, including folate, iron, folate, and potassium. Health Benefits: Dried fruit may serve as natural laxatives that can help relieve constipation. Potassium, fiber, iron, and other phytochemicals are available on dates. But dried fruits have high levels of sugar that are naturally produced. Required amount per day: Not more than 100 grams of dry fruits in a day. Read Common Sleep Problems in Children: Causes, Symptoms, Ways to Help Fish liver oil Nutrients: The oil of fish liver is made from the oily livers of fish, usually cod. It's high in omega-3 acid fatty acids EPA and DHA, which are crucial for the brain and eyes of a fetus. Development. Health Benefits: Fish oil supplementation may aid in preventing preterm birth and could benefit the fetus' eye development. One serving (1 teaspoon of 15 milliliters) of fish liver oil is more than the daily consumption of omega-3, vitamin D as well as vitamin A. Required amount per day: However, it's not advised that you consume more than one serving daily because too much vitamin A in the form of preformed could be harmful to your child.  Read How physical punishment affects children and alternative ways to discipline them Walnuts Nutrients: Walnuts are among the best sources of plant-based omega-3s. They are also rich sources of magnesium, fiber, and proteins. Health Benefits: Walnuts are rich in Omega 3 fatty acids, which lower oxidative stress within the brain. It also helps improve neurogenesis, which is the process of creating neurons. Consuming walnuts during pregnancy is beneficial to your brain and the fetus. Foetus. Required amount per day: 4 to 5 walnuts per day is enough.  Read How to deal with your demanding child? Greek yogurt Nutrients: Greek yogurt typically doubles as much protein as regular yogurt does. It's also a good food source for probiotics, vitamin B, phosphorus, and calcium. Health Benefits: Calcium keeps your bones strong and can help your baby build a strong skeleton. Yogurt can be a great breakfast food item and a great ingredient to add to your savory meals. Required amount per day: Consuming at least two cups of yogurt daily. Read Baby Food Brands in Bangladesh: An Overview Healthiest drinks for pregnant mothers Milk Nutrients:  Milk is rich in calories, protein, fat, calcium, vitamin D, riboflavin (B2), vitamin B12, potassium Health Benefits: Soymilk or milk is an excellent source of protein and calcium and should be a part of a pregnant woman's diet. The calcium content during pregnancy is essential in helping build strong bones for the developing baby.  Required amount per day: A pregnant woman needs to drink a minimum of 3 cups of milk (low-fat) milk. Read Top Baby Products based eCommerce Sites in Bangladesh Water Nutrients: Drinking water has a variety of electrolytes (substances in a solution that carry electricity) comprising fluoride, calcium, chloride, potassium, magnesium, and sodium.  Health Benefits: Water is essential for absorption and digestion functions and helps lubricate mucous membranes in the respiratory and digestive tract. It is essential to drink plenty of water. Particularly pregnant women. The volume of blood rises by 45 percent. The body channels water to your infant; however, if you aren't attentive to your water intake, you may also be dehydrated. More Benefits:  -Decreases constipation/hemorrhoids. -Reduces swelling. -Softens skin. -It increases energy. -Keeps you cooler. -Lowers risks of Urinary tract infections. -Reduces the chance of preterm labor and preterm birth. Required amount per day: During pregnancy, consuming 8-12 cups (64 to 96 inches) of water is recommended daily. Read How to comfortably travel with babies Bottom Line To assure the healthy growth of the fetus, the pregnant mother needs to consume nutrient-rich foods that are part of an omnivorous diet of whole grains, vegetables, fruits, Lean proteins, and healthy fats. So far, we have suggested 13 healthy foods and drinks for pregnant mothers. There is a myriad of healthy food options in different regions of the country. If you are expecting, make sure your healthcare provider is aware of your food choices and let them help you through a pregnancy diet plan. Stay safe and healthy!

When you are pregnant, it is important to stay healthy and active. This is the time when you need to take care of both your body and baby. But how much should you be active? It basically depends on what your doctor recommends. Keep scrolling to know some practical and effective ways to stay active during your pregnancy period.  Benefits of Staying Active during Pregnancy When a foetus develops inside a woman's womb or uterus, this period is called pregnancy. It generally lasts about 40 weeks or 9 months. This period is measured from the last menstrual time to delivery. According to health care providers, pregnancy has three segments that are called trimesters. Let’s checkout why it is essential to stay physically active during the months of pregnancy. Importance of Increasing Blood Flow in Early Pregnancy The first trimester is a time of rapid physical changes in the body and baby. One of these changes is increased blood flow to the uterus. This increased blood flow is important for establishing a healthy pregnancy. Some risk factors that may interfere with this healthy increase in blood flow are: - Obesity - Smoking - High blood pressure - Chronic kidney disease - Diabetes To prevent these health concerns the pregnant mother should stay active. Read Postpartum Depression, Mood Swings: How can new moms deal with these issues? Importance of Physical Activity during Pregnancy Some benefits of being active through exercises and healthy diet are as follows: - Prenatal fitness is essential to confirm the long-term health of your baby. - Your baby may grow up smarter - Prepare your baby for the demands of labour - You don't gain unnecessary weight - Boost mood - Reduce stress, anxiety and depression - Prep to push - Reduce aches and pains - May reduce prevalence of diastasis recti - Get things “moving” - Put a pep in your step - You will be a fit mom - You’ll feel more confident & fresh - You may experience a shorter labour - You’re less likely to experience swelling - May help with morning sickness - With the accomplishment of something will positively affect other areas of your life - May reduce premature Birth - Keep your blood sugar levels normal - You’ll be able to control your body more - Fight off germs and boost immunity. Read Postpartum Weight Loss: How to lose baby weight fast after pregnancy 10 Best Tips for Staying Active and Healthy during Pregnancy Let’s find out how to stay healthy and active during your pregnancy period. Get enough sleep Sleeping is not just for the sake of feeling refreshed and rested in the morning. It is a necessary component of your health and productivity, which should be factored into your daily schedule. Eat healthy food Eating healthy, nutritious and light food can lead to a more active lifestyle. Eating a diet high in protein, vegetables and fruit can give you the energy you need to get through your day. A diet low in fat and processed foods will lower risk of disease and promote weight loss. Read Pregnancy Care Tips for Summer: How can pregnant mothers beat the heat? Exercise three times a week Many people are struggling with a lack of time and motivation to exercise. With the introduction of high-tech fitness trackers and wearable technology, people can now monitor their activity levels 24/7. This data can be used to create personalized workout routines that suit an individual's needs. Drink plenty of water every day Drinking plenty of water every day is an essential part of a healthy pregnancy. It's important to stay active and hydrated to prevent common pregnancy symptoms like nausea, headaches, and constipation. A pregnant woman's body needs more fluids than usual because it's working hard to keep the mother and baby healthy.  Avoid too much caffeine and alcohol Caffeine and alcohol are not only harmful to the mother but they have a detrimental effect on the growing foetus. The risk of miscarriage increases as does birth defects. There is also a chance that the baby will end up with an addiction to caffeine or alcohol. Read Pregnancy Anxiety? How to reduce the stress of pregnant mothers? Take prenatal vitamins Prenatal vitamins are crucial to the healthy development of a baby. However, they also benefit mom in many ways. For example, they can help mom maintain her energy levels and keep her mood stable. They can also reduce the risk of preeclampsia, gestational diabetes and neural tube defects. Take medications recommended by your doctor Medication is a necessary part of someone's healthcare - but it can be difficult to remember what each medication does, and how it interacts with other medications. This article contains a list of medications and side effects that may help you stay on top of your meds. Stay away from sick people  People who are sick or have been recently sick can cause the flu to spread. Never shake hands with them, sit next to them on public transportation, or let them enter your home. If you have already been infected, stay away from other people for at least 24 hours after your fever has disappeared. Read 10 Post- Pregnancy Skincare Tips: Get Your Glow Back Wear loose clothing and avoid high heels  Wearing tight clothing or heels can cause back and neck pain. Wearing loose clothing that is comfortable to move around in will help you maintain your posture and avoid these pains. Stay away from smoking Smoking is a major risk factor for many diseases and health issues. Just like smoking, vaping releases harmful chemicals into the air that are toxic to humans. Studies are showing these chemicals can enter the bloodstream or be inhaled by bystanders, which may cause adverse health effects. Cautions Pregnant women should take care to move around and exercise as much as possible. If you won't be active during your pregnancy, the foetus is not developed enough to provide its own warmth, and the mother's body temperature can drop to dangerous levels. However, you should also avoid standing for long periods of time, which can cause your blood flow to slow down and circulation to decrease. Read Effects of Air Pollution on Unborn Children, Neonates, Infants The pregnant woman's body needs more oxygen than usual, so she should make sure that she breathes deeply and is always active.   Bottom Line If you are pregnant and active, then congratulations! You are doing a great job and your baby will love the benefits too! Staying physically active during pregnancy can help you to stay in shape and can help you to have a healthy pregnancy as well. Besides, staying active can even make labour easier. However, make sure you consult your doctor before starting any new activities to get a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby.

Some women experience postpartum depression after giving birth.  It not only causes extreme sadness and despair but also lead towards physical, emotional, and behavioral change. It usually begins within 4 weeks after delivery. It is a severe mental illness. The mood swing is also related to postpartum depression. This familiar concept is used to describe rapidly and intensely fluctuating emotions. People compare mood swings to a “roller coaster” of feelings from happiness and contentment to anger, irritability, and even depression. Here we are going discyss the causes, symptoms and reasons of postpartum depression and mood swings.Don't miss this article if you are a new mom suffering from postpartum depression or mood swings. Read Pregnancy Anxiety? How to reduce the stress of pregnant mothers? Postpartum depression and mood swings: common causes, reasons, and symptoms Comparison of causes, symptoms and reasons between postpartum depression and postpartum mood swings.   Postpartum Depression Mood Swing Cause Hormones:  The drop of Hormones after giving birth may play an important role to make you feel tired, sluggish, and depressed. Lack of sleep: With a newborn baby naturally the mother doesn't get sufficient sleep which ultimately makes you overwhelmed and so you may not handle even minor problems.  Anxiety: Like the moms of older kids, a new mom may be anxious about her ability to care for her newborn.  Self-image: After delivery a new mom may feel less attractive and so she struggles with her sense of Identity. Ultimately, the new mom may feel that she has lost control over her life.   -      Premenstrual syndrome - Premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)  -     Stress -      Psychiatric causes -      Hormone imbalances -      Puberty -      Pregnancy -      Menopause Symptoms -  Depressed mood  -  Excessive crying -  Difficulty bonding with the newborn baby -  Withdrawing from family and friends -  Loss of taste or eating much more than the mom used to eat usually -   Inability to sleep or sleeping too much -   Loss of energy -  Lack of interest and pleasure in activities you love to do -   Intense irritability and anger -   Fear that she is not a good mother -   Hopelessness - Feelings of worthlessness, shame, guilt, or inadequacy - Feeling inability to think clearly, and make decisions - Restlessness - Severe anxiety and panic attacks - Thoughts of harming her oneself or the newborn baby - Recurrent thoughts of death or suicide -  Feeling sad, hopeless, and worthless - Failing to enjoy favorite activities - Having trouble sleeping or sleeping too much - Feeling exhausted, tired, and fatigued - Having difficulty concentrating - Experiencing thoughts of death or suicide Reasons -   Having a history of depression -   Feeling bipolar disorder - Experiencing postpartum depression after a previous pregnancy - Experiencing stressful events (like illness, or job loss) regarding pregnancy. -   Baby's health problems  -   Having twins or multiple births -   Experiencing difficulty breastfeeding -  Going through bad relationships with her spouse or partner -   Having a weak support system -   Feeling financial problems - The pregnancy was unplanned or unwanted -   Living alone -   Marital conflict - Bipolar Disorder - Sleep -Deprivation - Low Blood Sugar - Certain Medications - Thyroid Issues - Caffeine - Too Much Sugar - Depression How can new moms deal with Postpartum depression and mood swings  Be friendly with your baby  You need to maintain attachment-the emotional bonding with your baby. This wordless relationship is really necessary and essential to enable a child to feel secure. It helps enough to develop your child fully and affects how he or she will interact, communicate, and form relationships throughout life. So, make sure you respond warmly and consistently to your baby’s physical and emotional needs to build a secure attachment with your baby.  Read Postpartum Weight Loss: How to lose baby weight fast after pregnancy Response quickly to your baby's demands and needs. But, remember, postpartum depression can interrupt this bonding. However, if you learn how to bond with your baby, it will be beneficial for your baby and for you as well which makes you feel happier and more confident as a mom.  Take others’ help and support  We are social beings and we can relieve our stress by building positive social contact with others. Positive social contact is faster and more efficient than any other means of stress reduction.  Naturally, a new mother needs help from others to care for the infant. Although at present nuclear families are available, new mothers often find themselves alone, exhausted, and lonely for supportive adult contact.  Read 10 Post- Pregnancy Skincare Tips: Get Your Glow Back So, it is important to be connected to family members and friends. Share what you’re experiencing with your nearest ones, especially with your mother or elder sister.  Be a joiner  Naturally, isolation begets anxiety. Make sure you may want to consider seeking out other women who are handling the same situation in motherhood although you have supportive friends. You can share your worries, insecurities, and feelings with them and they can give proper solutions to that as they have experience with these issues.  So, be a joiner and join the new-mommy support group which is offered by community organizations and hospitals to provide relief from the social isolation that comes with having a new baby, as well as perspective.  Read Newborn Baby, Infant Care Tips during Summer Take care of yourself  You may avoid postpartum depression effectively by taking care of yourself. By taking care of your mental and physical well-being, you can feel better. So, follow a simple lifestyle. Put priority on yourself and your baby. Minimize your household chores.  Take Regular exercise and Meditation  Studies show that exercise may be excellent for treating depression. So move and take easy regular exercise like walking for 30-minutes each day. You can take stretching exercises like yoga that have shown to be especially effective. Besides, do meditation to make you feel calmer and more energized.  Build a sweet relationship with your partner  Research has shown that most divorces happen after the birth of a child. Many couples think that the relationship with their partner is their primary source of emotional expression and social connection. As a new baby needs enough time and concentration, it can fracture this relationship unless couples put some time, energy, and thought into preserving their bond.  Read Pregnancy Care Tips for Summer: How can pregnant mothers beat the heat? Consult your doctor for postpartum depression If you are still suffering from postpartum depression after getting both self-help and family support, make sure you consult with your doctor. Take treatment as soon as possible. You can consult with a therapist who can help you successfully cope with the adjustments of motherhood.  However, you take marriage counseling if you are experiencing marital difficulties. Moreover, for cases of postpartum depression where your ability to function adequately for yourself or your baby is compromised, antidepressants may be an option.

You may gain extra weight during pregnancy as you take extra food & enough rest during that period. Now that your new baby is here and you always think about how to get rid of those extra pounds. Don’t worry! You need to maintain a gradual approach to lose weight. Be relaxed, hold patience and follow our secure and prudent ways to lose baby weight just after pregnancy and get back fitness.  Weight gain during pregnancy It is important to understand how much weight you should gain during pregnancy. You should also know why your body is putting on pounds, and how it plays a role in what happens after the baby arrives. How much weight you should gain during pregnancy will depend on your body mass index (BMI) before you get pregnant.  Institute of Medicine (IOM) says women who are underweight need to gain 28 to 40 lbs. (12.7 to 18.1 kg) while women with a normal BMI need to gain 25 to 35 lbs. (11.3 to 15.9 kg) but women in the overweight type should aim to gain 15 to 25 lbs. (6.8 to 11.3 kg), and women in the obese category should aim to gain 11 to 20 lbs. (5.0 to 9.1 kg). The women who carry twins, the recommended weight gain amounts for them are higher.  Read Pregnancy Care Tips for Summer: How can pregnant mothers beat the heat? According to IOM, the most important reason women should limit their weight gain during pregnancy is to reduce risks both to the mother and the baby's health. According to  IOM's recommendation, women can gain between 0.5 to 2 kg during the first trimester. And during both the second and third trimesters, women may gain 0.5 to 1 lb. (0.23 to 0.45 kg) per week.  Of course, that will depend on their pre-pregnancy BMI. The IOM also says that, during these trimesters, underweight and normal-weight women generally gain 1 lb. per week, overweight women gain 0.6 lbs. (0.27 kg) per week and obese women gain 0.5 lbs. per week.  Read Pregnancy Anxiety? How to reduce the stress of pregnant mothers? Weight Gain and Postpartum depression  Postpartum depression (PPD) is a complex including physical, emotional, and behavioral changes that happen in some women after giving birth. It is a serious but treatable medical illness that involves feelings of extreme sadness, indifference, and anxiety. It can affect the new moms. Some mothers suffer from Postpartum depression due to gaining excess weight during their preganancy periods.

Naturally, during pregnancy, the average temperature of your body will increase about one degree above normal. Because, the body of a pregnant woman releases progesterone throughout the pregnancy. So, it wouldn’t be in favor of you if you are pregnant during the summer season. However, try to feel relaxed. It isn’t as bad as it seems. Stay with us to learn some necessary tips for healthy pregnancy in the hot summer months. 10 Essential Tips to Stay Healthy During a Summer Pregnancy Drink Enough water  You need to hydrate yourself so make sure you drink at least 64 ounces of water each day. Keep a  bottle of water near you so that you can drink water throughout the day. Don’t wait until you feel thirsty. If you do so, your body is already showing signs of dehydration.  Remember, water is essential for a pregnant woman related to air. You can take diluted juices as well, but it is more important to keep drinking plain water regularly which is essential for both the mother and the baby.  Read: COVID-19 Omicron XE Variant: Should we be worried? Limit outdoor activities Don’t go outside on the hot summer days unnecessarily although it is necessary to get some fresh air that is too good during pregnancy. So, try to stay inside as much as possible. It is better for you if you take your walking or exercise either in the morning or evening. Make sure you don’t go outside during the peak hours like 11 am to 4 pm when the sun’s rays are strongest. Take a bath with cool water To make you cool on hot summer days is very important. So, the cool water bath will make you feel comfortable and a lot more pleasant. You can take swimming which is also very good for pregnant women. If you have time, you can go to the pool near your house to enjoy the cool summer.  Whenever you find you are having a hard time staying cool, take a break for a nice shower to cool you off.  Read: How to Lose Weight in Ramadan? Besides, sprinkling with cool water can relieve you from hotness. So, sprinkle with water when you step outside so that you can keep your body temperature in control. However, never forget to consult your doctor before starting any new physical activity. Wear breathable clothing Avoid wearing dark clothes like black or red as they increase heat absorption which makes pregnant women feel hotter. So, make sure on hot sunny days you select bright clothes like white, and beige to reflect the sun's rays. Moreover, you need to wear loose and breathable clothes. If you want to keep yourself cooler throughout the day you must choose the cotton fabric. Besides, you need to wear sunglasses, a sun-proof vest and use sunblock when going out.  Intake Healthy Diet Of course, you need to pay extra attention to your diet at the time of your pregnancy, especially during summer days. So, include more and leafy vegetables in your diet along with a moderate quantity of fruits that provide you the entire required nutrient for you and your baby.  Read Pregnancy Anxiety? How to reduce the stress of pregnant mothers? Besides, drinking healthy juice is also essential to keep your body temperature cool. But make sure you intake small diets at a particular time during the day to maintain the metabolism of the body. Don’t eat spicy foods.  Proper Exercise You can take exercises like walking, swimming, yoga, and other pregnancy exercises that are good for you and your baby but make sure you take them in the morning when the temperature is low.  In the early stage of your pregnancy you can exercise regularly, but when you are further into your pregnancy and the heat is on, cut back on the duration and intensity of exercise.  Read: Ramadan Fasting Benefits: Impacts on health when you fast for 16 hours Make sure you take a rest during exercise when you feel tired. However, whatever you do, make sure of your comfort zone by not overstressing yourself. Take proper rest and sleep Remember, sleep and rest are very important matters for mothers. Sleeping is helpful to minimize stress. So, take time for yourself and relax by reading a book, listening to music, or doing meditation. You also know that rest is very important during pregnancy so take enough rest.  Besides, as summer heats make pregnant women more tired, take a short nap after lunch. You need to do it regularly. A nap after lunch will give you more comfort and you will feel relaxed. You can take a fresh juice once you wake up.  Read 10 Post- Pregnancy Skincare Tips: Get Your Glow Back Take care of your legs During pregnancy, the common issues can be swelling legs. The summer heat is also associated with swelling legs. You can avoid the swelling of your foot by taking the following steps: - Keep your legs up on the pillows while you are sleeping. - Do not sit while hanging the legs down during pregnancy. - You should buy well-fitted shoes while you are pregnant to get comfortable and relax. - Wear the correct choice of footwear during exercise. Your footwear should be comfy while walking, also that is part of the exercise. Hair Care Don’t forget to take care of your hair during pregnancy. Massage your scalp with cooling hair oil to feel relaxed. You can also shorten the length of your hair. Short hair will give you relaxation. But if you do not like to cut your hair or short your hair, of course, tie your hair into a pony or a bun to avoid sweating on your neck. It is really necessary to ensure that you allow proper passage of air on your neck and the back. Read Coronavirus Tips: Free Online Yoga Courses for Stress Relief and Better Immunity Skin Care  Naturally, during pregnancy skin becomes dry, so take proper care of your skin. Don’t forget to apply sunscreen on your face and wear sunglasses to protect your skin from the harmful ultraviolet rays of the sun whenever you go out. Besides, it is important to take care of your lips from getting dry. You can use the finest quality lip balms to take proper care of your lip. Moreover, a prenatal massage can give more comfort on hot summer days.

It is natural to be confused sometimes while dealing with your signs and the changed lifestyle during pregnancy. It is really important to take care both of your mental and physical health in this stressful situation. Let’s find out how to control your stress as a pregnant mother.  Is it bad for your baby if You’re stressed? If you feel more stress than usual and you find it difficult to adjust, of course, you need to consult your doctor. Utmost, constant stress can put you at higher risk of premature birth and having a baby born with low birth weight. So, you always need to be free from any type of anxiety or stress.  Read 10 Essential Life Skills for Teens to Learn before College 10 Effective Stress Management Techniques during Pregnancy  Practise mindfulness The best way to remove negative thoughts is to practice mindfulness. It means to pay full attention even in the small moments of life. If you can practice mindfulness regularly, it truly brings about significant mental health benefits. This practice will surely help you to reduce anxiety, stress, or depression during pregnancy. You can practice mindfulness meditation & yoga in this regard. Nowadays, various free and paid-for mindfulness courses, sessions, and apps are available.   Talk about your mental health You need to talk to your midwife or doctor when you feel worried about your baby’s wellbeing, or anything else. Share to them the real thing. Of course, you will get the necessary support from your midwife. Moreover, you can share with your partner or your loved ones. If you share your bad feeling with your loved someone, you get relieved. Besides, meeting with other pregnant women at the same stage of pregnancy as you, you can get help from them.  Read How to keep your child engaged at home without gadgets Eat well Never forget that eating well is good for your brain, your body, and above all for your baby. So you must eat regular meals. If you don’t take a regular and balanced diet, your blood sugar can drop, and ultimately you feel tired and irritable. It is common that eating is not so easy during pregnancy but you need to try to eat even against your mind. Furthermore, in pregnancy, dehydration is not wishable at all because it hampers thinking clearly. So, drink required water, milk, fruit juice, herbal drinks, coffee, and tea.    Get more exercise You can’t imagine how boastful exercise is during pregnancy! Exercise releases feel-good chemicals namely endorphins in your brain. Simple exercises like dancing and low-impact aerobics are safe in pregnancy to build up your heart rate. But,  of course, avoid contact sports or something that is not safe for you. Read Why Do Women Live Longer Than Men? Swimming is one of the best exercises in pregnancy to keep you toned because it doesn’t put pressure on your joints. Then, for emotional wellbeing, you can try pregnancy yoga which will teach you breathing, relaxation, and meditation techniques. Besides, walking is the most awesome exercise in pregnancy.  Sort out money worries Money worries can give you more stress as you may need to do unexpected expenses during giving birth. So, it would be better for you to make a list of your necessary items.  If you are going through financial hardships. Don’t stress about it. You can borrow some of the listed things from your friends or family members. Nowadays, second-hand baby items are available in the market. You can also buy those items. Don’t worry. Many family finances sections will assist you with plenty of ideas and you can find lots of handy money-saving tips there.  Read Covid-Safe Wedding: How to Plan Your Big Day Safely during Pandemic? Get enough rest and sleep Don’t be late to listen to your body. Take a break or a nap, and go to bed early as soon as you feel tired or exhausted. We know sleep is important for everyone’s mental health and it is more important in pregnancy. If you have a job or you are already a mother, you need to reserve time for yourself. Take the help of your partner, a friend, or grandparent to look after your child or children for some time and utilize that time for taking rest.   Take a deep breath and focus on your baby It is important for you to take some time and focus on your bump. You need to feel relaxed for the betterment of both of you and your baby. After 15 weeks of pregnancy, your baby can hear your voice. So, try to talk with your baby whenever you get time. Chatting, singing, and reading to your bump can be very helpful for your baby’s brain’s development. This will create a bond between you and your baby.  Read Effects of Passive Smoking on Children’s Health Treat yourself Try to laugh as much as possible because laughter in no way is the best way of relaxing. So, hang out with your partner or close friend, watch films especially funny or comedy films. Listing to a favorite podcast or reading a feel-good novel can you give you relaxation. Moreover, pregnancy is the perfect time to treat yourself. You can take safe beauty treatments this time. Pedicure or mini spa can best perfect. Do whatever you most like to do. Be nice to yourself. You deserve it. Write about it During pregnancy, surprising things happen to us. Sometimes you may need to talk to your loved ones to feel relaxed but your wish cannot be fulfilled due to diverse reasons. Then, you can write your thoughts to share with that person later. Otherwise, you may forget the sweets memos of those times. Besides, you can try writing practice. For instance, you can start writing a personal diary. Who knows you can write the best book in the world about a mother’s feelings during pregnancy?  Read How to Protect Your Child from Sexual Abuse? Empower yourself The fear of childbirth is called tokophobia. If you are really very worried about your childbirth, you can sign up for a birth class online or offline. From this class, you will be able to learn about the different stages of pregnancy. You will find available suggestions in those classes about how to deal with pain and so on.

Actress Pori Moni has announced on Monday that she is expecting her first child, with 'No Dorai' famed Dhallywood actor Sariful Raaz. The couple has confirmed the news on their Facebook profiles about being the parents of their first child on Monday at around 5 pm. Sharing the same photograph, they both congratulated and thanked each other. Also read: Spl court frames charges against Pori Moni, 2 others in narcotics case Further confirming the news to the media, Pori said, ''I am going to be a mother. Alhamdulillah I am fine. When the doctor confirmed it today, I felt like I am the strongest woman in the world. I am flying with enormous joy and happiness." Describing her condition and further plans, Pori added, "The doctor has told me to be a little more careful now. I am also keeping myself away from shooting for the next year and a half. I want to give birth to a healthy baby." Also read: Pori Moni case: Charge-framing hearing deferred until Jan 5 Regarding her relation with Razz, she has recently said that they fell in love on the set of noted director Giasuddin Selim's upcoming film 'Gunin'. She has recently confirmed that the two secretly got married a few days ago.

There is no doubt that pregnancy marks the beginning of a life- changing experience in a woman’s life. In addition to going through bodily changes during pregnancy, some of these changes persist even after pregnancy. When a woman gets pregnant, her body requires a new system of hormonal balance to sustain the life inside. After the baby is delivered, the mother's body slowly goes back to its original flow. But this fluctuation of hormones results in visible changes of the body as well as the skin of the mother. The skin might lose its natural glow and give rise to different skin related problems like dark circles, melisma, breakouts etc. Hence, postpartum skincare is important. How to take care of your skin after delivery Here are 10 tips for new mothers to revive their glow back without affecting the breastfeeding process. Cleansing What any skin type demands is regular cleansing. A good cleanse will wash away the impurities on the skin and will help to prevent unsolicited breakouts. Although new mothers will, more often than not, feel the urge to skip cleaning their face due to a whole day of tiredness.  If you are a new mom, your skin will thank you after going through this step. Cleaning the face with a mild cleanser will also get rid of the oil or any sebum that accumulates on the skin, ultimately allowing the skin to shine through. Read Easy Skin Care Tips For Men Healthy diet Post- partum diet requires special attention as it does not only provides a good supply of breast milk for the baby, but also helps to sustain the skin’s natural glow. Eating the right kind of food that is full of fibers and vitamins not only keeps the skin firm and glowy but also helps to restore the mother’s stamina.  Thus, eating a healthy diet including whole grain foods, vitamin- enriched vegetables and fruits can help the new mother maintain sound health as well as a healthy looking skin. However, each breast-feeding mother should consult with a dietitian to get their individual diet chart. Read When to See a Nutritionist? Hydration and Toning To maintain a healthy skin after delivery and also to ensure that the body remains fit, there is nothing more important than hydration. A recommended amount for new moms is drinking 8 glasses of water on a daily basis.  Apart from hydrating the body, the skin requires its own hydration and so after cleansing it, it is important to use a toner to make the skin supple and to restore the natural pH of the skin. Using products that are rich in hyaluronic acid will help maintain the skin’s hydration without affecting the breastfeeding process. Read Fairness Creams: Dangerous Side effects of Skin Whitening Beauty Products Sufficient sleep While getting a sufficient amount of sleep is a basic need for the human body, it is also required for the glow on the skin. The new moms can hardly manage time for sleep, as the newborn babies tend to keep them awake the whole night and sometimes even the whole day. This disruption in the sleep cycle is the main culprit behind breakouts and dark, puffy eyes, which can make the skin look dull and spotty. Hence, ensuring at least 6 to 7 hours of sleep is an essential skin care tip for the new mothers.  Sun damage prevention Most pregnant women go through a skin discoloration condition during their pregnancy, which is called chloasma. The dark spots from this disease get worse when exposed to the rays of the sun. To prevent this from happening, a good and reliable sunscreen with adequate SPF is recommendable. Application of sunscreen is such a significant postpartum skin care tip that it should also be maintained even when a mother stays indoor.   Read SaadMua: The First Male Beauty Blogger of Bangladesh Moisturizing Cleansing, toning and moisturizing are the three foundational steps of any skincare routine. Often, just cleansing and toning the skin are not enough to keep the skin’s hydration intact. This is why the skin demands to be moisturized.  Application of a light moisturizer twice a day, after waking up and before going to bed, would help the skin to soften up and remain supple. It also helps to prevent dry skin during the post-pregnancy period.

Earlier this week we reported the government has decided to include pregnant and lactating women in the nationwide Covid-19 inoculation programme amid a worrying rise in Covid-19 hospital admissions across the country. The Directorate General of Health Services (DGHS) issued a notice regarding this Sunday. Although the pregnant women are now eligible for Covid-19 vaccination, they must follow some instructions before getting vaccinated, according to the DGHS. They have to take the Covid shots from government vaccination centres with medical facilities after getting counselling from a registered physician there. Read: Pregnant woman with Covid-19 unlikely to pass infection to newborns: Study Pregnant women, who are unwell or suffering from chronic illness or have a history of vaccine allergy, will not be allowed to take the jabs. Medical experts say there’s no biological reason the shots would affect fertility. And the AP reports real-world evidence offers more assurance for anyone worried about their chances of conceiving: In Pfizer’s study, a similar number of women became pregnant in the group given the vaccine as in the group given dummy shots. Researchers are starting to study anecdotal reports of short-term changes to periods after the vaccine, but there’s no indication so far that the shots put fertility at risk, said Dr. Mary Jane Minkin, a gynecologist and professor at the Yale University School of Medicine. Read: Pregnant, lactating women to get Covid jab: DGHS The US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and obstetrician groups also recommend COVID-19 vaccines for pregnant individuals, who have a higher risk of severe illness if infected with the coronavirus. Research shows pregnant people who get the virus are more likely to be admitted to intensive care, receive invasive ventilation and die than their non-pregnant peers. The CDC also followed tens of thousands of pregnant women who got the vaccines and found they had comparable pregnancy outcomes to pregnant women before the pandemic. So whether you are thinking about having a baby, trying to conceive or undergoing fertility treatments, you should not delay vaccination, Dr. Denise Jamieson, chair of the department of gynaecology and obstetrics at Emory University School of Medicine, told AP.