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Amniotic fluid surrounds your baby throughout pregnancy and is contained within the amniotic sac. It cushions your baby, allows movement and supports the development of important organs such as the lungs.What is amniotic fluid? Amniotic fluid is the fluid surrounding your baby inside the amniotic sac. Its amount changes throughout pregnancy and is monitored during ultrasound examinations when needed.Why is amniotic fluid important? Amniotic fluid helps:Cushion and protect your baby Allow your baby to move freely Support the development of the lungs and other organs Provide space for normal growth and development What does low or high amniotic fluid mean? Sometimes an ultrasound shows that there is less amniotic fluid than expected, known as oligohydramnios, or more than expected, known as polyhydramnios.There can be different reasons for changes in fluid levels, and your doctor may recommend additional monitoring or investigations depending on your individual pregnancy.Amniotic fluid levels cannot be reliably assessed based on how your belly looks or how much water you drink. Your healthcare provider uses ultrasound and other clinical assessments when necessary.What happens when your waters break? As labour approaches, the membranes surrounding the baby may rupture. This is commonly called your waters breaking.You may notice either a slow trickle or a sudden gush of fluid that you cannot control. Amniotic fluid is usually clear or pale. Sometimes it can be difficult to distinguish it from urine.If you think your waters have broken, contact your maternity team for advice.Seek urgent medical advice if the fluid is green, brown, smelly or associated with significant bleeding, or if your baby is moving less than usual. If your waters break before 37 weeks, contact your maternity team promptly.Can yoga be practised when there is a problem with amniotic fluid? If you have been diagnosed with low or high amniotic fluid, your pregnancy should be managed according to your obstetrician's advice.Do not assume that a particular yoga pose, exercise or home remedy can correct an abnormal amniotic fluid level.If your doctor has cleared you for movement, your prenatal yoga practice should be appropriately modified for your individual pregnancy.Every pregnancy is different. When it comes to amniotic fluid concerns, your healthcare team's assessment is more important than trying to manage the condition yourself.This article is for general information and does not replace medical advice from your obstetrician or maternity care team. &nbsp; &nbsp;<figure id="figure-68qbtmj736lrytrdpp"><img id="68qbtmj736lrytrdpp" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1585010873004-923f9a54e54e?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw4Mnx8YW1uaW90aWMlMjBmbHVpZCUyMHByZWduYW5jeXxlbnwwfHx8fDE3MDY1MjY2ODZ8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="woman in white long sleeve shirt" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Amniotic Fluid" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1585010873004-923f9a54e54e?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHw4Mnx8YW1uaW90aWMlMjBmbHVpZCUyMHByZWduYW5jeXxlbnwwfHx8fDE3MDY1MjY2ODZ8MA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Amniotic Fluid</figcaption></figure>

Amniotic Fluid During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Pre-eclampsia is a pregnancy complication involving high blood pressure that usually develops after 20 weeks of pregnancy. It can affect the health of both mother and baby and needs medical monitoring. (nhs.uk)What are the signs? Pre-eclampsia may have no obvious symptoms, which is why regular antenatal check-ups are important. Blood pressure and urine are routinely checked during pregnancy. (nhs.uk)Possible warning signs include:Severe or persistent headache Blurred vision or flashing lights Sudden swelling of the face, hands or feet Severe pain below the ribs Nausea or vomiting Feeling unusually unwell A noticeable change in your baby's movements These symptoms need prompt medical assessment. (nhs.uk)Can you practise yoga with pre-eclampsia? If you have been diagnosed with pre-eclampsia or have high blood pressure during pregnancy, do not start or continue a yoga practice without clearance from your obstetrician or maternity team.Your exercise may need to be modified or temporarily stopped depending on your condition and your doctor's advice.Yoga should not be used to treat or control pre-eclampsia.Why regular antenatal care matters Pre-eclampsia can develop without making you feel unwell. Regular blood pressure checks, urine tests and other monitoring recommended by your healthcare team help identify problems early. (Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Trust)If you are concerned about any symptoms during pregnancy, contact your doctor or maternity team promptly.*This article is for general information and does not replace medical advice. Pre-eclampsia requires individual assessment and management by your healthcare team.<figure id="figure-3aviu497kjlryt278y"><img id="3aviu497kjlryt278y" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/26TDFlIvzohyLgfVIxysyFouMESBmfDof2pwH7IuwAaW0Pquaechj3yClx5HAF8o.jpeg" alt="HIGH BLOOD PRESSURE word on patient tag in black background. Medical and healthcare concept." class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center 50%;" data-corners="small" data-aspect="3:2" data-caption="High Blood Pressure" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="50%" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/18iDA6POtkWbVTV3HC7gTC0twi7zEIiYtJS3rbMy6utDohvhzOmr7P8Z3Ilko6bv.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 3/2; object-position: center 50%;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">High Blood Pressure</figcaption></figure> <figure id="figure-5xscd6bzsnlryt9h8h"><img id="5xscd6bzsnlryt9h8h" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1490645935967-10de6ba17061?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxiYWxhbmNlZCUyMGRpZXR8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzA2NTI1NTkyfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="poached egg with vegetables and tomatoes on blue plate" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl selected" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Balanced Diet" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1490645935967-10de6ba17061?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxiYWxhbmNlZCUyMGRpZXR8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzA2NTI1NTkyfDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-mce-selected="1"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Balanced Diet</figcaption></figure>

Pre-eclampsia During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Homemade Butter During Pregnancy: Is It Safe? Homemade butter can be included in pregnancy when it is made from pasteurised milk or cream and prepared hygienically.Butter provides fat and calories, but it is not a special pregnancy food and does not need to be consumed in large amounts.How Much Butter Can You Have? There is no specific amount of butter recommended during pregnancy. Use it in moderation as part of a balanced diet.For everyday nutrition, focus on a variety of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, pulses, protein-rich foods, dairy or suitable alternatives, nuts and seeds.What Should You Check? If you are having homemade butter during pregnancy:Use pasteurised milk or cream. Prepare and store it hygienically. Keep it refrigerated. Avoid butter that has been left unrefrigerated for long periods. Be mindful of your overall intake of saturated fat. Homemade butter can be part of a balanced pregnancy diet, but it is not essential for a healthy pregnancy. 🤍*This article is for general information and does not replace individual dietary advice from your doctor or dietitian.

Homemade Butter During Pregnancy: Is It Safe?

Honey During Pregnancy: Is It Safe? Honey is generally safe to eat during pregnancy when consumed as part of a balanced diet. The restriction on honey applies to babies under 12 months because of the risk of infant botulism, not to pregnant women.&nbsp;Is Honey Healthy During Pregnancy? Honey can be used as a sweetener, but it is still a source of sugar. It is best enjoyed in moderation rather than considered a special pregnancy food.&nbsp;You can add a small amount to foods such as:Yoghurt Porridge Whole-grain toast Smoothies Can Honey Help With Cough or Sore Throat? Honey may be soothing for a cough or sore throat, but it should not replace medical treatment if symptoms are severe, persistent or accompanied by other concerning symptoms.One Important Reminder While honey is safe during pregnancy, do not give honey to your baby before 12 months of age because of the risk of infant botulism.Enjoy honey in moderation as part of a varied and balanced pregnancy diet. 🤍*This article is for general information and does not replace individual medical or dietary advice.

Honey During Pregnancy: Is It Safe?

Breathlessness During Pregnancy Feeling breathless is common during pregnancy, particularly as pregnancy progresses. Your body needs more oxygen, and as your baby grows, there is also less space for your lungs to expand.&nbsp;What Can Help? If you feel mildly breathless:Slow down and take regular rest breaks. Sit or stand upright and avoid slouching. Practise gentle, comfortable breathing rather than forcing deep breaths. Stay active at a comfortable level if your healthcare provider has cleared you for exercise. Stay hydrated and follow a balanced diet. Anaemia and asthma can also contribute to breathlessness during pregnancy, so persistent symptoms should be discussed with your doctor. (Healthier Together)Can Prenatal Yoga Help? Gentle prenatal yoga may help you become more comfortable with breathing, posture and relaxation. Your practice should be modified as pregnancy progresses and should never leave you struggling for breath.If you have a medical condition or pregnancy complication, follow your healthcare provider's advice before exercising.When Should You Seek Medical Help? Do not assume breathlessness is simply a normal pregnancy symptom if it is sudden, severe or occurs at rest.Seek urgent medical attention if breathlessness is accompanied by:Chest pain Dizziness or fainting A very fast or irregular heartbeat Difficulty breathing when lying down Coughing up blood Severe or rapidly worsening breathlessness (nhs.uk) Mild breathlessness can be a normal part of pregnancy, but sudden or severe breathlessness should always be checked.*This article is for general information and does not replace individual medical advice.<figure id="figure-2tpn7fzeqelryyqq8m"><img id="2tpn7fzeqelryyqq8m" src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1518708909080-704599b19972?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxicmVhdGhpbmd8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzA2NTM0Nzg1fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" alt="woman in white vest and black bikini with hand on chest" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-lg md:rounded-xl lg:rounded-2xl" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="Breath and Meditate" data-positionx="undefined" data-positiony="undefined" data-mce-src="https://images.unsplash.com/photo-1518708909080-704599b19972?crop=entropy&amp;cs=tinysrgb&amp;fit=max&amp;fm=jpg&amp;ixid=M3wyNjI5NjF8MHwxfHNlYXJjaHwxfHxicmVhdGhpbmd8ZW58MHx8fHwxNzA2NTM0Nzg1fDA&amp;ixlib=rb-4.0.3&amp;q=80&amp;w=1080" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"><figcaption class="body-normal text-gray-500 mt-2">Breath and Meditate</figcaption></figure>

Breathlessness during Pregnancy

Vaginal bleeding during pregnancy can be frightening, but bleeding does not always mean miscarriage. There can be several causes, particularly in early pregnancy. However, any bleeding during pregnancy should be discussed with your healthcare provider.&nbsp;What is a miscarriage? A miscarriage is the loss of a pregnancy before 24 weeks. Vaginal bleeding and lower abdominal cramping are common symptoms, although some miscarriages may have no symptoms and are only discovered during an ultrasound.&nbsp;When should you seek medical help? Contact your doctor or maternity team if you experience vaginal bleeding during pregnancy, especially if it is accompanied by abdominal pain or cramping.Seek urgent medical attention if you have:Heavy bleeding Severe abdominal pain Shoulder-tip pain Dizziness, fainting or feeling very weak Significant or persistent pain on one side of the abdomen Fluid leaking from the vagina (nhs.uk) Can yoga be practised after bleeding or a miscarriage? If you experience bleeding, stop your yoga practice and speak with your healthcare provider before resuming exercise.After a miscarriage, when you return to yoga or other physical activity depends on your physical recovery, symptoms and medical advice. There is no need to rush your recovery.The emotional recovery can also take time. Give yourself permission to rest, seek support and process your experience in your own way.Bleeding during pregnancy should never be self-diagnosed. When in doubt, speak with your doctor or maternity team.*This article is for general information and does not replace individual medical advice.

Blog

Amniotic Fluid During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Pre-eclampsia During Pregnancy: What You Need to Know

Homemade Butter During Pregnancy: Is It Safe?

Honey During Pregnancy: Is It Safe?

Breathlessness during Pregnancy

Miscarriage and Bleeding During Pregnancy: What You Need ...