Women’s Health

Myth 1: Pineapples will cause miscarriages and induce labour! Fact: Pineapples DO NOT induce miscarriages, labour or even uterine contractions. Although pineapple extracts (extracts mean only the active components are present) do cause contractions when directly exposed to uterine cells in a test tube, the effect on the female reproductive system is insignificant even if you eat or drink loads of pineapple juice. The myths about oxytocin content in pineapples…

Adequate nutritional intake during pregnancy is essential for the growth of developing fetus as well as the good health of expectant mothers. Nevertheless, it is important to note that food safety is of paramount importance since biological and/or chemical contaminants can pose health risks to both mother and baby. As such, it is advisable to avoid the following types of food during pregnancy.   Soft cheeses Soft cheeses made from…

A vaginal pessary refers to a tablet that is inserted into the vagina for the medicine to exert its effect. This is usually for the treatment of various diseases affecting the vagina. The treatment duration may vary from one night to several nights. Below is a general instruction on how to apply a vaginal pessary using an applicator. 1. Pick a time where you will be lying down for a…

That may be a “vulvovaginal yeast infection”. Most women just call it a yeast infection. The cause of this problem is a fungus named “candida”. The infection can cause a variety of symptoms which include: Itchiness of and around the vulva Redness, irritation of even pain at the vulva or in the vagina Pain during sexual intercourse Pain during urination Apart from the above-mentioned symptoms, there may be discharge from…

My previous article explains what pelvic floor muscles are and how they are related to incontinence. If you haven’t read it already, please do! It is ‘hilarious’, or so I’ve heard. This article is a continuation of the previous topic, and it is not meant for the faint-hearted.   Let’s start with two simple definitions Stress urinary incontinence is a condition where there is involuntary leak of urine when you…

While welcoming a new life into the family is often a joyous occasion; pregnancy and child birth can sometimes trigger depression in certain women. Medically, we refer this condition as perinatal depression. As a result, these women not only have poor diet and may face difficulties in performing daily tasks, some may even have suicidal or infanticidal tendencies. Additionally, fetal development can be adversely affected by maternal perinatal depression. There…

“Congratulations! You’re gonna be a mom soon. You must be over the moon!” “Thanks! I am really excited but just between you and me, I am also pretty scared! I’ve heard how uncomfortable it can get sometimes.” Pregnancy is perhaps one of the most exciting stages in a woman’s life although at times the associated physical discomforts can get the better of many moms-to-be. Most of these discomforting symptoms are…