Al Zahra Hospital Dubai https://azhd.ae/ Best hospital in Dubai Wed, 01 Nov 2023 11:19:07 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.2.4 https://azhd.ae/wp-content/uploads/2020/07/cropped-favicon-1-32x32.png Al Zahra Hospital Dubai https://azhd.ae/ 32 32 PET-CT SCAN https://azhd.ae/pet-ct-scan/ https://azhd.ae/pet-ct-scan/#respond Thu, 24 Aug 2023 14:09:12 +0000 https://azhd.ae/?p=13398 PET-CT SCAN: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW A PET-CT scan is a medical imaging test that combines two technologies, Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Computed Tomography (CT), to provide detailed images of your body. This brochure is designed to help you understand the PET-CT scan, how to prepare for it, and what to expect during […]

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PET-CT SCAN: WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW

A PET-CT scan is a medical imaging test that combines two technologies, Positron Emission Tomography (PET) and Computed Tomography (CT), to provide detailed images of your body. This brochure is designed to help you understand the PET-CT scan, how to prepare for it, and what to expect during and after the procedure.

PREPARING FOR THE PET-CT SCAN

It is important to follow these instructions carefully to ensure accurate results. Here are some general guidelines:

  • Fasting: You may be asked to fast for a certain period of time before the scan, typically 4-6 hours.
  • Medications: Inform your doctor of all medications you are taking, including over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements. Some medications may interfere with the scan or require special preparation.
  • Diabetes: If you have diabetes, you may need to adjust your insulin or oral medication before the scan.
  • Clothing: Wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing. Avoid wearing jewelry or clothing with metal zippers or snaps.

DURING THE PET-CT SCAN

The PET-CT scan is a painless procedure that usually takes between 60-120 minutes. Here’s what to expect during the scan:

Tracer injection: A small amount of a radioactive tracer will be injected into your body, typically through a vein in your arm. The tracer helps highlight areas of your body being scanned. Uptake Waiting time: After the injection you will relax in a comfortable room to allow the tracer to distribute to all your body. There is no side effects and you are allowed to drink water and to go to the toilet if needed. This part will take around 45-60 minutes
Imaging: You will lie on a table that moves through the PET-CT scanner, which takes pictures of your body. You will need to remain still during the scan to ensure clear images. Scan duration can take between 20 to 45 minutes.
Relax: You will be asked to relax and breathe normally during the scan.

AFTER THE PET-CT SCAN

After the scan, you may resume normal activities unless your doctor instructs otherwise. It is important to drink plenty of fluids to help flush the tracer out of your system. Here are some other things to keep in mind:

Results: Your doctor will review the results of your PET-CT scan and discuss them with you. Depending on the findings, additional tests or treatments may be recommended.
Radiation exposure: PET-CT scans involve exposure to a small amount of radiation. While the risk of harm is low, it is important to inform your doctor if you are pregnant or may be pregnant, as radiation can harm the developing fetus.

CONCLUSION

A PET-CT scan is an important diagnostic tool that can help detect and monitor certain medical conditions. By following your doctor’s instructions and understanding what to expect during and after the scan, you can help ensure accurate results and a successful outcome. Our team is completely available to any question you may have and we are here to make your journey thought this test as comfortable as possible.

CONTACT INFORMATION

For booking please contact :

Sameer Reeshi:0553437927

If you have any questions or concerns about your PET-CT scan, please do not hesitate to contact our department:
TEL: 04 378 6859
Email: nuclearmedicine@azhd.ae

 

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Al-Zahra Hospital Center for Anal Fistula Treatment https://azhd.ae/al-zahra-hospital-center-for-anal-fistula-treatment/ https://azhd.ae/al-zahra-hospital-center-for-anal-fistula-treatment/#respond Tue, 13 Jun 2023 11:00:54 +0000 https://azhd.ae/?p=12864   Anal fistula is one of the most common proctologic disorders treated by colorectal surgeons and proctologists.   Anal fistula is a tunnel, an abnormal communication between the inside of the anus and the skin surrounding the anus or adjacent structures such as the vagina in females. Most cases of anal fistula are related to an […]

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Anal fistula is one of the most common proctologic disorders treated by colorectal surgeons and proctologists.   Anal fistula is a tunnel, an abnormal communication between the inside of the anus and the skin surrounding the anus or adjacent structures such as the vagina in females.

Most cases of anal fistula are related to an anal gland infection which tracks from inside the anus to the surrounding anal skin.  In a minority of patients, an anal fistula can be related to inflammatory bowel disease, such as Crohn’s disease.  Other causes of anal fistula include atypical infections such as tuberculosis, radiation therapy, or cancer.   Anal fistula affects mostly young people between the age of 20 and 50, with higher risks amongst males and smokers.

 

What are the symptoms of anal fistula?

Patients with anal fistula can initially present with an anal abscess.

The symptoms of anal abscess include pain, swelling around or inside the anus, and/or fever.  The abscess can either open spontaneously and start draining or it is often incised and drained by a surgeon.  After the drainage of a first-time anal abscess, about 60 to 70% of the patients will develop another abscess or will continue to have drainage of pus and bloody secretions from a formed fistula.   This can occur within days, weeks, or months after the initial presentation.  In a small group of patients, the first manifestation of a fistula is a skin nodule or opening around the anus with drainage.   The symptoms associated with anal fistula can vary from day to day with good days and bad days depending on the degree of swelling, pain, or drainage.

 

How is anal fistula diagnosed?

Most patients with anal fistula are diagnosed in the clinic after sharing their symptoms and history with the doctor and undergoing brief examination which includes visual inspection of the area, digital finger examination, and anoscopy procedure to look inside the anus.

 

A minority of patients can present with an internal fistula without external manifestation.  In addition to the office-based examination, most patients will undergo imaging to confirm the presence of the fistula and to determine the anal sphincter muscle involvement by the fistula.  The best imaging modality is a pelvic magnetic resonance scan [MRI] .   A colonoscopy examination is advisable to check the colon for any evidence of inflammatory bowel disease which can manifest initially as an anal fistula in a subgroup of patients .

What is the treatment of anal fistula?

The treatment of anal fistula is a delicate act that requires tremendous expertise and good judgment in order to achieve the best possible outcome for the patient.  The colorectal surgeon needs to balance 3 critical factors: the first factor is to cure the fistula both in the short- and long-term, the second factor is to expedite the recovery of the patient and minimize any risk related to the procedure, and the third is to preserve the function of the anal sphincter muscle which is critical to continence.  While most fistulas can be straightforward to treat, some fistulas can be very complex and require tremendous expertise in order to achieve the best possible outcome.  But even simple fistulas can become problematic if treated by inexperienced surgeons which can render a simple situation more difficult and complex.  Therefore, it is important for the patient to check the credentials and the expertise of the treating surgeon.  Colorectal surgeons have specialty interest and training in the management of anal fistula.  The main treatment for anal fistula is surgery.  Patients with inflammatory bowel disease require medical treatment in addition.

Several surgical options are available for the treatment of anal fistula.  The choice of an operation for a patient depends on many factors including the type of fistula, the gender and age of the patient, any prior surgical intervention, any additional medical conditions such as diabetes, smoking, obesity. The most effective therapy for anal fistula is to remove the anal fistula.  The operation of fistulotomy or fistulectomy entails careful removal of the fistula and in some cases repair of the sphincter muscle.  This operation yields the highest success rate when technically performed safely by an experienced surgeon.  It is the preferred method for most patients with superficial fistula.  Patients who present with more complex and deep fistulas involving a significant amount of muscle, require the initial placement of a draining seton to control the infection, followed by a definitive second stage operation at a later date to repair the fistula.  A seton is a thread that gets introduced through the fistula tract and is tied externally.

Following a period of stability with the seton, a second stage operation is done to repair the fistula.  Several procedures are available including flap closure, the LIFT procedure, laser or obliterative procedures such as videoscopic procedure.  The choice of a particular operation for an individual patient depends on various factors and the judgement of the surgeon is of paramount importance.

 

Who should you see for anal fistula?

Anal fistula is a very complex condition that affects a very sensitive part of the body.  It is a critical for the patient to the seek care of an expert surgeon trained in the management of diseases of the colon, rectum, and anus.   Surgeons who are board certified in colorectal surgery are usually the most qualified to treat patients with anal fistula.

For booking and appointments click here

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Patient with rare swallowing disorder undergoes life changing procedure https://azhd.ae/patient-swallowing-disorder-undergoes/ https://azhd.ae/patient-swallowing-disorder-undergoes/#respond Wed, 20 Jul 2022 04:42:35 +0000 https://azhd.ae/?p=11275 An Indian lady suffering from a rare swallowing disorder has found relief at a Dubai hospital after years of discomfort and pain. For more than three years, Srinidhi, 26, had been experiencing constant chest pain, coughing, weight loss and a feeling of food getting stuck in her food pipe. After visiting many doctors and undergoing […]

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An Indian lady suffering from a rare swallowing disorder has found relief at a Dubai hospital after years of discomfort and pain.

For more than three years, Srinidhi, 26, had been experiencing constant chest pain, coughing, weight loss and a feeling of food getting stuck in her food pipe.

After visiting many doctors and undergoing several tests, she started losing hope after the treatments prescribed did not seem to alleviate her condition.

Describing her ordeal, Srinidhi said: “It got really bad. We do not realise how important it is to be able to swallow foods or liquids. It impacts your quality of life tremendously. The coughing and chest pain got so bad that I would prefer not eating, which in turn depleted my body of necessary nutrients that helps maintain health. I was constantly anxious, avoided social settings and could not make out what was wrong with me.”

In June 2022, she visited an experienced Gastroenterologist and Interventional Endoscopist at Al Zahra Hospital Dubai, who, after corroborating the patient’s medical history and conducting an endoscopy, esophageal manometry and barium aided x-rays, diagnosed her with a rare swallowing condition that affects one in 100,000 people worldwide – Achalasia Cardia, a swallowing disorder in which the pressure of the sphincter muscle controlling the passage of food from the food pipe to the stomach gets elevated.

The doctor explained that it was coupled with the inability of the muscles in the food pipe to contract effectively to push the food down into the stomach.

Dr Gaurav Muktesh, Specialist Gastroenterologist at Al Zahra Hospital Dubai, said: “In Achlasia Cardia, the food pipe can get hugely dilated and tortuous. This leads to difficulty in swallowing, chest pain, weight loss, nutritional deficiencies and aspiration of food contents into the windpipe resulting in coughing and lung infections.”

Dr Muktesh is one of the few Gastroenterologists in the UAE to be trained and skilled to perform the latest advanced endoscopic procedure to treat this illness.

“Some studies suggest that patients with untreated achalasia may also have a higher risk of esophageal cancer,” he added.

Srinidhi then underwent a successful ‘Peroral endoscopic myotomy (POEM)’ procedure. This is an endoscopic surgery that involves dividing the muscle fibers and releasing the pressures of the food pipe and the tight muscles at the lower end of the food pipe to facilitate easy entry of food into the stomach. After the surgery, that proved to be life-changing for Srinidhi, she started accepting liquids that now moved smoothly through the food pipe into the stomach.

Within a few days post-surgery, she began eating normally, without experiencing any of the symptoms she had been suffering from for years.

Dr Muktesh added: “Due to the rarity of the condition and lack of awareness, patients tend to suffer for years, often being misdiagnosed or not receiving the right level of care. Very few doctors around the world are trained to carry out the POEM procedure. This procedure has transformed the lives of thousands of patients suffering from Achalasia across the world. We are proud to be the leaders in the region providing this latest, external incisionless endoscopic treatment option to patients suffering with this disorder.”

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Going Into Labor  https://azhd.ae/going-into-labor/ https://azhd.ae/going-into-labor/#respond Tue, 05 Jul 2022 23:58:42 +0000 https://azhd.ae/?p=11246 The Signs of Labor: It can be hard to tell at first if you are in labor, but there are some signs that help you to know that labor may be near. Lower backache Baby dropping down into the pelvis Increased Braxton Hicks Contractions Increased pressure in pelvis and rectum Nesting Instinct: It is nature’s […]

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The Signs of Labor:

It can be hard to tell at first if you are in labor, but there are some signs that help you to know that labor may be near.

  • Lower backache
  • Baby dropping down into the pelvis
  • Increased Braxton Hicks Contractions
  • Increased pressure in pelvis and rectum
  • Nesting Instinct: It is nature’s way of helping you feel confident and ready to protect, nurture and welcome a new baby into your home. It is characterized by an overwhelming desire to clean, organize, and re-organize your home.
  • Water breaking
  • Loose or more frequent bowel movements
  • Mucus plug/ bloody show (blood-tinged vaginal discharge)
  • Light spotting
  • Regular tightening, pulling or cramping sensations

 

Do not panic if you feel any of these signs, contact your doctor/midwife for clarity.

 

What does it mean when your water breaks?

Your water can break at any point in your labor or even before the contractions start (10% of the time) It might be super obvious and happens as a gush or it might just feel like trickle.

 

What do I do if my water breaks?

If you’re not sure that your water broke, go and pee put a pad on and walk around for an hour. If it’s water, you likely wet your pad. Once your water is broken, it will keep leaking.

There will be no barrier between the baby’s head and the neck of the womb. This means more pressure on your cervix, more contractions, and hopefully your cervix will be thinning out and dilating.

Your baby’s head plugs the opening to the vagina, keeping water inside. So, it is unlikely that your baby will run out of water.

Get excited! The best-case scenario is that your baby comes within 24 hours.

If you don’t progress into labor spontaneously, you might need an Induction of Labor. Your doctor will explain the process to you.

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Braxton Hicks Contractions https://azhd.ae/braxton-hicks-contractions/ https://azhd.ae/braxton-hicks-contractions/#respond Tue, 05 Jul 2022 23:55:29 +0000 https://azhd.ae/?p=11242 Braxton Hicks contractions are sometimes called ‘false’ or ‘practice’ contractions. You may be having Braxton Hicks contractions, if you feel irregular, infrequent tightening or cramping in your abdomen during your pregnancy. This is normal and not a sign that you’re ready to give birth.   What are Braxton Hicks Contractions? Braxton Hicks contractions are a […]

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Braxton Hicks contractions are sometimes called ‘false’ or ‘practice’ contractions. You may be having Braxton Hicks contractions, if you feel irregular, infrequent tightening or cramping in your abdomen during your pregnancy. This is normal and not a sign that you’re ready to give birth.

 

What are Braxton Hicks Contractions?

Braxton Hicks contractions are a tightening in your abdomen that comes and goes. They tone the muscles in your uterus and may also help prepare the opening of the womb for birth.

Braxton Hicks contractions aren’t a sign of labor.

If you are worried and not sure what you are experiencing is false or actual labor, contact you doctor. They will be able to tell by doing a cardiotocograph and a vaginal examination. If your cervix is not dilating, it is not labor.

 

How do I know if what I am experiencing are Braxton Hicks?

Braxton Hicks contractions feel like muscles tightening across your belly, and if you put your hands on your belly when the contractions happen, you can probably feel your womb becoming hard then soft irregularly.

The contractions come irregularly and usually last for about 30 seconds. While they can be uncomfortable, they usually aren’t painful.

If the pain or discomfort of your contractions eases off, they’re probably Braxton Hicks contractions.

 

When do I start feeling Braxton Hicks?

Braxton Hicks contractions occur from early in your pregnancy by the first trimester which is about 16 weeks, but you may not feel them until the second trimester or later in pregnancy, you may feel Braxton Hicks contractions more often, as much as every 10 to 20 minutes. This could be a sign that your body is getting ready for labor.

 

What is the difference between Braxton Hicks from labor pain?

There are some differences between Braxton Hicks contractions and true labor contractions that will help your doctor or midwife decide if you are in labor.

Braxton Hicks contractions:

  • Do not result in your cervix thinning and opening
  • Usually last for about 30 seconds
  • Usually not painful, but may cause some discomfort
  • Irregular, once or twice an hour, and may come and go at a few times a day until late in the pregnancy
  • Usually stop if you change position or activity or go for a walk
  • Usually disappear if you take a shower or have a warm bath

 

True labor contractions:

  • Result in your cervix thinning and opening
  • Usually, last 30 to 70 seconds then longer as time goes by
  • Become very regular with time (every 3-5 minutes)
  • Get more frequent
  • Last longer as time goes by
  • Get stronger over time or come more often when you walk

 

What can I do to relieve Braxton Hicks discomfort?

It may help to practice your breathing exercises during your Braxton Hicks contractions

Although Braxton Hicks contractions are normal, but they may cause some discomfort that can go, by changing position, lying down, warm bath, massage, or by going for a walk.

When do I contact my doctor or midwife?

If you are less than 37 weeks pregnant, and you are experiencing pain, pressure or discomfort in your pelvis, abdomen, or lower back, please contact your doctor immediately. If the contractions become regular, frequent and stronger. This can be a sign of premature labor.

At any time of your pregnancy, if you feel fluid leaking or gushing from your vagina, contact your doctor and visit the Emergency Room for checkup.

If you are above 37 weeks, you may choose to wait until a bit later in your labor, providing that your baby’s movements haven’t reduced and your water did not break. If you are in doubt, do not hesitate to call us for advice at the labor and delivery unit, a midwife will assist and will be ready to answer your questions.

At any stage of your pregnancy, you should contact your doctor or midwife immediately if you experience the following:

  • Persistent pain in your abdomen
  • Vaginal spotting or bleeding
  • Water leaking
  • Your baby’s movement have reduced or stopped
  • You have severe headache, epigastric pain, or you feel very unwell.

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3rd Trimester of Pregnancy – Week 28 to End of Pregnancy – All You Need to Know https://azhd.ae/3rd-trimester-pregnancy-all-need-know/ https://azhd.ae/3rd-trimester-pregnancy-all-need-know/#respond Tue, 05 Jul 2022 23:51:28 +0000 https://azhd.ae/?p=11240 Welcome to your last phase of pregnancy! Your checkups will be once every 2 weeks till 36 weeks, then weekly till the delivery which is around 40 weeks. During the 3rd trimester, your baby develops, grows, and changes position to get ready for birth. Your baby’s brain triples in weight, and the cerebrum develops deep, […]

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Welcome to your last phase of pregnancy! Your checkups will be once every 2 weeks till 36 weeks, then weekly till the delivery which is around 40 weeks. During the 3rd trimester, your baby develops, grows, and changes position to get ready for birth. Your baby’s brain triples in weight, and the cerebrum develops deep, convoluted groves that provide extra surface area without taking up more room in the skull.

 

Week 28

Your baby’s size is of a large eggplant.

Your baby’s eyes partially open.

The eye lashes form.

The Central nervous system can direct rhythmic breathing movement and control body temperature.

Highlights of week 28

Your baby is very active now. You might experience discomfort in finding the best position to sleep. Sleeping on the side and “almost-back sleep” could be very helpful using pillows, and blankets to support your back, neck, and growing belly.

 

Week 29

Your baby’s size is of a butternut squash.

This month is characterized by the respiratory sacs at the tips of your baby’s lung branches making a substance called surfactant. If the baby is to be born this week, the lungs would be capable of functioning despite being immature.

Your baby continues to kick and stretch.

 

Week 30

Your baby’s size is of a large cabbage.

The pigment called melanin that gives your baby’s skin its color is made at this stage. This continues until after birth.

Your baby’s hair grows.

Red blood cell is forming in bone marrow.

Highlights of week 30:

One and a half pints of amniotic fluid (water around your baby) cushion your baby, but that will change as your growing baby occupies more space in your uterus.

Many women feel irregular, infrequent, and painless contractions called Braxton Hicks.

Frequent contractions are a sign of preterm labor, so if you experience them, call your healthcare provider, or seek our emergency room.

 

Week 31

Your baby’s size is of a coconut.

Rapid weight gain begins.

Your baby’s pupils can constrict and expand

 

At this stage, it is a good idea to book for our Antenatal Classes that will be followed by a Maternity Tour to visit the labor and delivery room where you can meet the midwife/ Ob nurse who will look after you in labor if possible.

 

Week 32

You are at your eighth month

Your baby is the size of large jicama

Your baby’s toenails and fingernails are visible

Your baby practices breathing at this

 

Week 33

Your baby is the size of a pineapple.

Your baby detects light by stimulus. He/she can change the pupils’ size.

The bones are hardening and the bones in your baby’s skull overlap and compress into the shape of a bullet to fit through the birth canal.

 

Week 34

Your baby is the size of a cantaloupe.

Your baby’s fingernails keep on growing.

The central nervous system is getting more mature, and the lungs too.

If you have been anxious about the delivery during this week or any time before 37 weeks, you will be more relaxed to know that babies at this stage of pregnancy with no health issues generally do well. They may need a short stay in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit

 

Week 35

Your baby is the size of a honeydew melon.

Your baby’s skin is smooth.

His/her limbs have chubby appearance.

His/her kidneys are fully developed, the liver can process some waste products. The basic physical development is almost complete.

You will feel the need to pee very often as your baby gets ready to drop and descend into your pelvis. You may be dealing with heartburn thanks to your womb that might have reached up under your rib cage by now.

 

Week 36

Hurray! You have reached your ninth month

Your baby is the size of a head of romaine lettuce.

You’ll feel probably lots of stretch rolls, and wiggles.

Your baby takes up most of the amniotic fluid.

The closer you get to your due date; Braxton Hicks can get stronger and can make you feel you are in labor. Timing of these contractions is very important.

Things to consider at 36 weeks:

  • Be sure that you review the signs of labor and When to Come to the Hospital
  • Your doctor will check you for Group B Streptococcus
  • You might need to write your birth preferences. Make sure that you discuss your preferences with your doctor/midwife to get feedback. Make copies of your Birth Plan and keep in your Hospital Bag.

 

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2nd Trimester of Pregnancy – Week 14 to 27 – All You Need to Know https://azhd.ae/2nd-trimester-pregnancy-all-need-know/ https://azhd.ae/2nd-trimester-pregnancy-all-need-know/#respond Tue, 05 Jul 2022 23:46:49 +0000 https://azhd.ae/?p=11238 The middle part of your pregnancy is called the second trimester. It is made up of week 14 through week 27.  During this period, your baby continues to grow and change almost every day.  Here is a summary of how your baby develops week by week during the second trimester. Week 14 Your baby is […]

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The middle part of your pregnancy is called the second trimester. It is made up of week 14 through week 27.  During this period, your baby continues to grow and change almost every day. 

Here is a summary of how your baby develops week by week during the second trimester.

Week 14

Your baby is approximately the size of a lemon.

At this stage, your baby’s gender becomes more apparent.

Your baby can make faces due to the brain impulses. He may start the sucking and the chewing movements. He may latch on his thumb. His body is growing faster than his head. The neck becomes more define. His little hands and feet are more flexible and active.

You may start feeling your tummy out a bit. You and your partner have visible evidence of the baby. Your energy level is likely returning, your nausea is easing off too.

Some pregnant women might experience swollen, red, and tender gums that bleed when flossed or brushed. Make sure that you visit your dentist for teeth cleaning to avoid the gums’ inflammation.

You may start some yoga classes, Pilates to motivate you and for you to meet other expecting mothers.

 

Week 15

Your baby is the size of an apple.

Your baby’s scalp and hair pattern develop.

Hence, your baby is complete, looking like a little person with eyelids, eyelashes, nails, hair, and well distinct fingers and toes. Your baby forms taste buds that are fully formed by about 20 weeks. What you eat, your baby directly tastes! It will be transformed into molecules that go to your bloodstream to reaching your amniotic fluid.

Your baby’s legs start growing longer than the arm; therefore, he/she can move all the joints and limbs, but you can’t feel the movements yet.

Highlights and some pregnancy symptoms of week 15

In this trimester, you may find that your sex drive comes back full force due to the increased blood flow and lubrication; sexual intercourse may feel better than ever.

If you decide to use the gender predictors test, keep in mind that they are highly unscientific, but they have a 50% chance of being right.

Starting from this trimester, begin your affirmations by saying to yourself positive statements of your choice to overcome negative thinking. Trust your body for what it can do.

Epistaxis:

About 20 % of pregnant women have a harmless condition called epistaxis which is nosebleed thanks to the increased blood volume and blood vessel dilation in the nose. Keep handy tissues available. If the nosebleed doesn’t stop after applying pressure, seek medical help.

Rhinitis of pregnancy:

This is a common condition. It happens in the form of nasal congestion. The nose might be stuffed up due to the hormonal changes and the blood flow increase to your mucous membranes. Keep yourself well hydrated and sleep with your head slightly elevated with extra pillows. Use humidifier or vaporizer in your room. Do not use anti-congestion or any drugs without consulting your doctor.

Acid reflux (Known as Heartburn)

It is a burning sensation in your chest happening mostly after eating or at night. Due to the progesterone hormone and some physical changes in your body, you may experience heartburn. It is not harmful, but it can be disturbing.

You can treat it by looking into lifestyle changes such as eating small and frequent portions, avoiding spicy food and watching your posture while eating, straight and upright back.

There are a lot of safe medications that can be prescribed by your doctor.

 

Week 16 – Kicks are coming week!

Your baby is the size of an Avocado.

Your baby’s eyes can slowly move, ears are close to reaching their final position, the skin is getting thicker.

His/her legs are much more developed, and the head is more erect.

You start feeling your baby’s movements between the 16th and the 22nd weeks, mostly when you are sitting or lying in a quiet place. Some women notice “quickening” this early, most don’t feel their baby move until 18 weeks or more especially if it is your first baby. The first movements may feel like little flutters, gas bubbles, or even like popcorn popping, but they’ll grow stronger and more frequent.

Your glowing skin is at its best times. The top of your womb will be about halfway between your pubic bone and your navel.

 

Week 17

Your baby is the size of a turnip.

Your baby’s skeleton changes from soft cartilage to bone. The umbilical cord grows stronger and thicker. Your baby is more active, rolling and flipping.

Your baby develops tonsils. His/her blood vessels are visible through the skin.

Highlights of week 17

Keep moving and avoid standing still or sitting for long hours. This may lower your blood pressure.

Sleep on your left lateral, preferable not to lie flat on your back to release the compression of your growing uterus of major blood vessels resulting in a decrease of the blood flow to your baby.

 

Week 18

Your baby is the size of a bell pepper

The smallest tubes of the lungs called bronchioles start to develop. At the extremities of these tiny tubes, the respiratory sacs begin to appear.

Your baby begins to hear.

Your baby’s digestive system has started working

If you are having a boy, his genitals could be seen, he may hide them every time you go for an ultrasound scan. If you are having a girl, her uterus and fallopian tubes are formed and in place.

Highlights of week 18

An increase in appetite and food cravings is common by now.

Your blood pressure might be lower than usual thanks to the dramatic changes that are undergoing your cardiovascular system. Do not leap up too quick from a lying or sitting position to avoid dizziness.

 

Week 19

Your baby is the size of the heirloom tomato.

Baby develops protective coating. Cheese-like material called Vernix Caseosa. The arms and legs are in proportion. Your baby’s senses are developing: smell, vision, touch, hearing and taste.

Highlights of week 19

You may experience some ache in your lower abdomen or stabbing pain on one or both sides. The ligaments supporting your growing uterus are stretching to accommodate its increasing weight.

You may also notice darkness of your skin color on your upper lips, forehead, and cheeks.  This skin condition is called chloasma or the “mask of the pregnancy”. Darkness of your nipples, scars, inner thighs, freckles, and vulva are also common. The Linea nigra appears. It is the darkened line from your belly button going down to your pubic bone.

What can you and your partner do?

Nurturing care and creating positive foundations for your child’s mental health and wellbeing begins from the womb. You and your partner can do the following acts:

  • Talk to your bump
  • Rub your bump
  • Play music and dance with your bump
  • Nurture your own relationship, spend loving time together with your partner, your emotional experiences affect the baby

 

Week 20

Your baby’s size is of a banana.

You might be able to feel the baby’s movement better.

Your baby is regularly sleeping and waking.

Your baby’s digestive is producing meconium, which is the first dark, sticky poop of the baby that can go either in the diaper or in the womb during delivery.

Highlights of week 20

This is your halfway destination of your pregnancy! You might need to celebrate and spoil yourself.  It actually isn’t selfish; it is helpful to fuel yourself with the necessary energy. You are not doing it only for you, you are doing it to build the blocks.

Allow yourself to have time for you, because by doing whatever brings you joy and makes you happy has a positive impact on your unborn baby, your husband and the whole family if you have other kids.

 

Week 21

Your baby is the size of a carrot.

Her/his body is covered with fine hair called Lanugo. 

Your baby can suck his or her thumb. The baby’s movements are full kicks and jabs against the wall of your womb. You may start noticing fetal movements’ pattern as you become more familiar with them.

Highlights of week 21

You may notice some varicose veins now, also known as spider veins, which is a group of small vessels near the surface of your skin. Thanks to higher progesterone levels that cause the walls of your veins to relax. They also happen when the uterus applies pressure to the large vein (the inferior vena cava) that carries blood back to the heart from your feet and legs. The spider veins can be seen particularly on your legs, face or your ankles. Varicose veins are common. For some women they are usually harmless part of pregnancy.

 

Week 22 – baby hearing your heartbeats

Your baby is the size of spaghetti squash.

The hair and eyebrows become more visible

Your baby may be able to hear sounds faintly from inside your body, such as your breathing, your heartbeat, and your digestion. These sounds will grow louder as your baby’s hearing improves.

Highlights of week 22

Acne may develop due to the increased production of oil

Stretch marks may be noticed too on your expanding abdomen to accommodate your growing baby. They may vary in color from pink to dark brown depending on your skin color. Stretch marks are common and show up on the tummy, buttocks, thighs, hips and breasts.

 

Week 23

Your baby’s size is of a large mango.

Your baby’s finger point and footprints form.

The eye movement is rapid now.

The ridges form in the palm and soles of the foot.

Hiccups begin causing jerking movements.

The baby can hear the outside world such as music.

Highlights of week 23

You may experience swollen ankles, hands and face at the end of the day or during the heat of summer. An isolated edema can be normal during the pregnancy but if it is accompanied with high blood pressure and protein in the urine, it can be a sign of preeclampsia.

Contact your doctor and seek medical advice in this case.

 

Week 24

Your baby’s size is of an ear of corn.

You baby’s skin is still thin and translucent, but it starts to change.

The respiratory sacs at the tips of the smallest branches of your baby’s lungs are growing and multiplying, adding more surface area for the exchange of oxygen and carbon dioxide once your baby is born.

Highlights of week 24

A Glucose Tolerance Test is done at 24 weeks of gestation to rule out gestational diabetes. The test may be done earlier if you have a high glucose level in your urine when you come in to visit your doctor in the clinic during your routine prenatal care.

Glucose Tolerance test Instructions:

  • 8 – 10 hours fasting required prior to sample collection
  • Fasting blood sample taken
  • 75 grams Glucose drink will be given to you from the laboratory
  • Drink entire Glucose drink within 5 – 10 minutes. Note the time after completion
  • Subsequent blood samples to be collected after 1 and 2 hours (post Glucose drink)
  • A urine specimen may be needed with each blood specimen collection
  • Third collection after 3 hours post Glucose drink may be required based on the physician’s instruction
  • Do not eat and drink during this period. Small amount of water can be taken
  • Activities prohibited during this test:
  1. Running
  2. Excessive walking
  3. Smoking
  4. Chewing gum
  • We cannot allow you to leave the hospital grounds during the test
  • If you experience any lightheadedness, nausea, dizziness, vomiting, etc. These should be reported to the staff

 

Watch for signs of preterm labor

Call your doctor if you have unusual discharge, vaginal bleeding, abdominal cramping, pelvic pressure, low back pain, or leaking fluid.

 

Week 25

Your baby’s size is of an average rutabaga.

Your baby’s wrinkled skin starts to fill out with baby fat. The hair has color and texture. The eye browns just sprouted a few weeks ago, now he is working his facial muscles by raising them. 

Highlights of week 25

Your hair may look fuller due to hormonal changes.

Your skin may look pale. It is pretty common during pregnancy to have iron deficiency or anemia. Around this time, your doctor might order some blood tests. Your doctor will prescribe you iron supplements as per your needs.

You might need to sign up for some classes to train on specific techniques to cope with pain (hypnobirthing, breathing techniques, etc..) or to find out about labor and delivery by booking for antenatal classes and maternity tours.

Week 26 

Your baby is the size of a bunch of scallions.

Your baby starts inhaling and exhaling amniotic fluid, which helps develop their lungs.

Your baby may now be able to hear your voice, a broader range of sound and can respond by changes in his/her heartbeats, breathing, and movement.

Your baby’s nervous system starts maturing and your baby gains more fat.

If you’re having a boy, his testicles have begun to descend into his scrotum, this trip might take about 2 to 3 months

Highlights of week 27

The 2nd Trimester ends by the end of week 27.

Your growing uterus may cause the following:

–              Lower backache

–              Shift in your center of gravity

–              Stretching and weakness of your abdominal muscles

–              Pressing on a nerve

–              Hormonal changes that loosen your joints and ligaments

 

Preeclampsia is a disorder that only occurs in pregnant and postpartum women. It is characterized by the new onset of hypertension diagnosed after 20 weeks of pregnancy.

Any pregnant woman can develop preeclampsia. However, some women are at higher risk than others.

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1st Trimester of Pregnancy – Week 1 to 13 – All You Need to Know https://azhd.ae/trimester-pregnancy-all-need-know/ https://azhd.ae/trimester-pregnancy-all-need-know/#respond Tue, 05 Jul 2022 23:40:36 +0000 https://azhd.ae/?p=11236 Fetal development begins soon after conception. Keep in mind that all the measurements below are approximate. Let us find out together how your baby grows and develops during the first trimester. Week 1 – Getting ready                 Oops! We know by now you are not yet pregnant. To calculate your estimated due date, the first […]

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Fetal development begins soon after conception. Keep in mind that all the measurements below are approximate. Let us find out together how your baby grows and develops during the first trimester.

Week 1 – Getting ready

                Oops! We know by now you are not yet pregnant. To calculate your estimated due date, the first day of your menstruation period is very important to help your healthcare provider to calculate your estimated due date. From here, we will count ahead 40 weeks.

Week 2 – Fertilization occurred

The sperm and eggs unite in one of your fallopian tubes. Soon after fertilization, the zygote travels down the fallopian tube towards your womb.

 

Week 3 – Implantation

A microscopic ball of rapidly multiplying cells called Blastocyst start to attach into the lining of your womb. At this point, 15 to 25 % of women experience light bleeding called implantation bleeding.

 

Week 4 – Embryo formation

The size of your baby is of a poppy seed. Your ball of cells transforms to an official embryo.

The level of HCG hormone quickly increases. The embryo is now made up of three layers. If you do a home pregnancy test, you are highly likely to get a positive result.

 

Week 5 – Tiny tadpole

The size of your baby is of a sesame seed. The growth is rapid this week. The embryo is made up of three layers:

  • Ectoderm (outer layer) – Skin, central and peripheral nervous system, eyes and inner ears.
  • Middle Layer (Mesoderm) – Bones, ligaments, kidney, muscles of reproductive system.
  • Inner Layer (Endoderm) – Lungs, intestines, early urinary system, thyroid, liver, and pancreas.

The heart and other organs start to form. Your baby’s heart starts to beat. The baby brain and spinal cord will develop from the neural tube. The necessary structure for the formation of eyes and ear develops. Small buds appear that will soon become arms.

      

Week 6 – Formation of the head

Your baby is the size of a lentil. The heart is beating twice as fast as the mother’s heart. The eyes, nose, mouth, and ears start to form and show as dark spots. A small pouch on each side of the head marks the ears’ development. The lower limb buds appear to become legs after, and the arm buds take on the shape of paddles.

 

Week 7 – Eyes, digestive system and brain development

In this week, your baby is the size of a blueberry.  The eyes continue to develop and the necessary parts for the sight – the cornea, iris, lens, and retina – start forming. They continue developing till few weeks later.

Your baby’s stomach and the tube that moves food from your baby’s mouth to the stomach called esophagus start to form. The pancreas and the liver are developing this week too.

Amazingly, your baby’s brain gains an average of 250,000 cells per minute through the pregnancy. Now, the neural tube closes at both ends and becomes your baby’s spinal column and brain that is on the top. Your baby’s brain is made up of the following three areas:

  • Forebrain
  • Midbrain
  • Hindbrain

This phase is very important for their brain development which can be affected by your internal and external feelings and actions. Loving and connecting with your baby should start from pregnancy.

 

Week 8 – Baby movements’ week

You are on your week 8 now! Your baby is the size of a kidney bean. He is moving now by making spontaneous twitches and stretches that you won’t feel or notice.

We at AL Zahra Hospital are pleased to register you with us for the antenatal care.

Some highlights of week 8:

  • Baby’s fingers and toes appear
  • Nerves, bones, and muscles develop inside the limbs
  • Respiratory system starts to form

 

Week 9 – Basic anatomy development

Your baby is the size of a grape. The embryonic tail disappears and starts gaining weight fast.

Your body is growing two miracles inside, a complete baby and another organ called the placenta. Your baby’s body has all the essential body parts:

  • Baby’s elbow bends
  • Longer toes and fingers
  • Visible umbilical cord
  • Head becomes rounder.
  • Tiny earlobes form
  • The four chambers of heart form
  • Tiny tooth buds develop that will transform to baby teeth.

 

The placenta

The placenta is an organ that develops in your uterus during pregnancy. The placenta attaches to the wall of your womb and connects to the baby’s umbilical cord that arises from it. It is responsible to provide oxygen and nutrients to your growing baby and removes waste products from your baby’s blood.

 

Tips to consider:

  • Bonding with your baby
  • Connecting with your partner by encouraging them to be a part of your pregnancy
  • Walking is the safest activity unless you have been restricted by your doctor from some activities

 

Week 10 – Hearing your baby’s heartbeat

Your baby is the size of a kumquat.

The main parts of the eye that enable your baby’s vision are fully formed (the cornea, iris, pupil, and the retina). Your baby’s eyes are covered by the eyelids, and they will stay closed till 27 weeks.

Your baby’s forehead temporarily bulges with their brain development and stays very high on the head.

Buds for future teeth appear. Few babies might be born with one or two teeth. Normally, the teeth sprout out at 6 to 10 months old or even longer.

Week 11 – When you will feel kicks

Your baby’s size is of a fig. This is when you start thinking of announcing your pregnancy to the family and friends.

 

Highlights of week 11:

  • Genitals develop: Baby’s external genitalia will start developing into a penis and a scrotum in boys or clitoris and labia in girls. Differences are not easily seen at this stage.
  • Face becomes broad.
  • Fingers and toes are more distinct now and nails form.
  • Baby’s face is more developed.
  • Intestines are in the abdomen.
  • Some vital organs start working: The liver makes red blood cells, the kidneys make urine, and the pancreas starts making insulin. The four chambers of the heart are fully formed, and your baby’s heart is beating.

Your healthcare provider may auscultate the fetal heart rate by a Sonicaid.

Be sure to exercise safely, get enough rest, a healthy lifestyle, and healthy diet.

 

Week 12 – Reflexes week

Your baby is the size of a lime.

This week is the reflexes development week. Your baby can make small movements such as opening and closing their hands and curling their toes.

The abdominal wall will close, and their intestines make their way inside the abdomen.

It is time to do the nuchal translucency test and the NIPT blood test to screen for Down’s syndrome. This ultrasound scan is done between 11 and 14 weeks. Your doctor might have done already an ultrasound scan by now if you are at high-risk pregnancy to rule out miscarriages or ectopic pregnancy.

 

Week 13

Your baby is the size of a peapod.

Your baby begins to excrete urine in its surroundings, swallows the amniotic fluid and recycles the full amount every few hours.

Prints are forming on your baby’s tiny fingertips. Bones are beginning to harden in your baby’s skeleton especially in the skull and long bones.

For you mommy, you might notice that your morning sickness and fatigue have subsided. Your breasts start to harden making colostrum which is the first form of milk rich in nutrients that feeds your newborn baby for a few days after birth.

You might experience some cramping like pain. This is common. Call your doctor if your pain is constant, frequent and getting stronger after several minutes of rest.

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All About Pregnancy Tests https://azhd.ae/all-about-pregnancy-tests/ https://azhd.ae/all-about-pregnancy-tests/#respond Tue, 05 Jul 2022 23:37:41 +0000 https://azhd.ae/?p=11234 What is a Pregnancy Test and how does it work? You can be pregnant without experiencing many of the classic signs and symptoms of the pregnancy. If you miss a period, take a pregnancy test. There are two main types of pregnancy tests: Urine Tests Blood Tests The tests look for a hormone called Human […]

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What is a Pregnancy Test and how does it work?

You can be pregnant without experiencing many of the classic signs and symptoms of the pregnancy.

If you miss a period, take a pregnancy test. There are two main types of pregnancy tests:

  • Urine Tests
  • Blood Tests

The tests look for a hormone called Human Chorionic Gonadotropin (hCG). Your body makes this hormone after a fertilized egg attaches to the wall of your uterus. This usually happens about 6 days after fertilization. Levels of hCG rise quickly and doubles every 2 to 3 days.

Urine Pregnancy Test:  It can be bought over the counter, or you can get it through your health care provider. The test is quick and easy to use and also very accurate if you follow the written instructions in the pack or if you wait until the first day of a missed period, preferably first thing in the morning when your urine is concentrated. You will need to wait a few minutes before seeing the results.

If your home pregnancy test is positive, make an appointment with your health care provider to confirm your results and to begin your prenatal care.

If you get a negative result, you’re probably not pregnant. But you may be pregnant if:

  • The test is past its expiration date.
  • You took the test the wrong way.
  • You tested too soon.
  • Your pee is too diluted because you drank a lot of fluids right before the test.
  • You’re taking certain medications, such as diuretics or antihistamines.
  • If you get a negative result, try retesting within a week to double-check.

How accurate are pregnancy tests?

  • Urine home pregnancy tests are about 99% accurate.

 

What do the pregnancy test results mean?

 It’s important to know what a positive or negative result means according to the test used. Digital tests show the words “pregnant” or “not pregnant.”

If you get a positive result, you’re pregnant. This is true no matter how faint the line, color, or sign is. You may want to call your doctor to talk about what comes next.

In very rare cases, you can have a false-positive result. This means you’re not pregnant, but the test says you are. You could have a false-positive result if you have blood or protein in your pee. Certain drugs, such as tranquilizers, anticonvulsants, hypnotics, and fertility drugs, could cause a false-positive result.

Blood Tests

A blood test is a good idea to confirm results. You get this test at your doctor’s office. These tests can detect pregnancy earlier than a home pregnancy test, about 6 to 8 days after ovulation. It takes longer to get the results than with a home pregnancy test.

There are two types of blood pregnancy tests:

  • A qualitative hCG test simply checks for hCG. Doctors often order these tests to confirm pregnancy as early as 10 days after conception. Some can detect hCG much earlier.

 

  • A quantitative hCG test (beta hCG) measures the exact amount of hCG in your blood. It can find even very low levels of hCG. These tests may help track problems during pregnancy. Your doctor may use them along with other tests to rule out an ectopic pregnancy, when the fertilized egg implants outside your uterus, or after a miscarriage, when hCG levels fall quickly.

If you have any other questions about the pregnancy test or the results, book an appointment with one of our Obstetricians at AL Zahra Hospital Dubai through the Motawasel App or call 043786666.

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Signs That Help You Know You Are Pregnant https://azhd.ae/signs-help-know-are-pregnant/ https://azhd.ae/signs-help-know-are-pregnant/#respond Tue, 05 Jul 2022 23:35:44 +0000 https://azhd.ae/?p=11232 Even before you miss a period, you might suspect that you are pregnant by knowing the classic signs and symptoms of pregnancy! The most common early signs and symptoms of pregnancy might include: Missed period: If you’re in your childbearing years and you miss your period by a week or more, you might be pregnant. […]

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Even before you miss a period, you might suspect that you are pregnant by knowing the classic signs and symptoms of pregnancy!

The most common early signs and symptoms of pregnancy might include:

Missed period: If you’re in your childbearing years and you miss your period by a week or more, you might be pregnant. However, this symptom can be misleading if you have an irregular menstrual cycle.

Nausea with/without Vomiting: It often begins one to two months after you become pregnant. Some women might experience nausea earlier in pregnancy. The cause of sickness during pregnancy is not clear. However, pregnancy hormones most likely play a role.

Tender, Swollen Breasts: Hormonal changes might make your breasts sensitive and sore early in the pregnancy. In a few weeks, your body likely adjusts to this change; therefore, the discomfort will reduce.

Fatigue: You might experience fatigue during early pregnancy. The cause of sleepiness during the first trimester of the pregnancy is unknown. However, an increase in the levels of the hormone progesterone might be the leading reason.

Increased urination: The amount of blood in your body increases during pregnancy, causing your kidneys to process extra fluid which will result in urinating more often than usual.

Other signs and symptoms of pregnancy that you might experience during the first trimester mostly due to the flood of hormones in your body include:

Mood swings: It is common to be emotional and weepy in early pregnancy.

Light spotting: Known as implantation bleeding, it happens when the fertilized egg attaches to the lining of the uterus 10 to 14 days after conception. However, not all women have it.

Bloating: similar to how you might feel at the start of a menstrual period.

Food disfavor: You might become more sensitive to certain odors and your sense of taste might change. Your food preferences will be altered.

Cramping: You might experience mild uterine cramping.

Constipation: Your digestive system slows down due to hormonal changes, which can lead to constipation.

Nasal congestion: You might have a blocked or runny nose that can be like most of the other symptoms chalked up to the hormonal changes and the increase blood production in your body.

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