Dear N

Many thanks for your question.  Your "light bleeding/spotting" is as a result of the withdrawal of hormones (in the pill) and the beginning of detoxification thereof, and yes it is normal for this to happen.  Your body will now attempt to re-regulate your hormonal cycle.  It should take no more than 2 - 3 months maximum for regular menstruation to return.  I suggest that you consider doing the following:

Take CHASTEBERRY PLUS by Metagenics as x1 capsule, twice daily, in the morning and evening after meals.  This nutritional supplement will assist in re-regulating your hormonal cycle, in supporting menstrual regularity, and in relieving menstrual symptoms.  Chasteberry Plus also contains Ashwagandha which helps with the emotional 'topsy-turvy' when detoxifying from the synthetic hormones in the contraceptive.  Rather complete detoxifying first and then plan your pregnancy. 

When there is an overload of contraceptive hormones in the systems, and detoxification has not been allowed to happen sufficiently, it is listed for Triphasil that on occasion, male babies have been born with female features  -  so just to be safe, detoxify.

Also, being on the pill for 6 years without a break is a fair length of time, and it is important to be aware that you may take anything up to a year to fall pregnant.  Should you not have been on a multivitamin while on the pill, I recommend that you now take a good multivitamin and omega supplement.   

You are welcome to e-mail me again, or even telephone with any concerns you may have.  I wish you and your husband all the very best of luck with your baby plans.

Warm regards

Angela

Dear C

Many thanks for your question. 

As you have decided to regulate your menstrual cycle with a contraceptive pill, I suggest that you consider doing this for a maximum of 3 months.  However, you will have a hormonal flux when you discontinue your pill, and then your ovulation may be upset again  -  should this happen, you are welcome to contact me again.

All the very best with your baby plans!

Warm regards

Angela

Dear M

Many thanks for your question.

I very much doubt that you have fallen pregnant again so soon.  You will be experiencing a hormonal imbalance due to the termination in that your body will have been "thrown off balance".  By all means do a pregnancy test, even for peace of mind.   

Your nutritional status, drinking an adequate supply of water, and not stressing are also important.  If you don't take adequate care of yourself, your menstruation cycle will be delayed in returning.  Do eat iron-rich vegetables and fruit and drink sufficient water so as to assist your body in recovery.

Take care now,

Warm regards

Angela 

Dear Zee

Many thanks for your question. 

At this point in time, should your menstruation not have returned, I recommend thay you have a pregnancy test done with a pathology clinic  -  request the BHCG blood test for pregnancy.  A conception can be determined from ten days onwards.  You are welcome to make an appointment with me to have this done.  I have an understanding with pathology services that a result will be granted within two hours of the blood test being collected. 

I really hope that your wish comes true!

Warmest regards

Angela 

Dear D

Thank you for your question. 

The clinic sister providing the contraceptive service should have advised you to use a good barrier method like condoms for the first 2 - 3 weeks at least, after the first Petogen injection  -  I always advise clients to do this for a 6 week time span, so as to avoid an unplanned pregnancy for sure.

Although it is now almost 6 months since you had your baby, there is a possibility that you could be pregnant again.  I suggest that you visit your clinic and ask the sister on duty to do a pregnancy test.  You are also welcome to make an appointment to see me, to check the same.  I grade this service as an emergency and can give you a result straight away, and if need be send bloods away to a pathology laboratory and will have a result within 2 hours.

Do have yourself checked, even if just for peace of mind.  I wish you well and you are welcome to contact me again.  

Warm regards

Angela 

Dear M

Thank you for your question.

In your particular instance, it would take at least 3 months for your menstruation to return. 

However, I suggest that for peace of mind you do a pregnancy test.  Should you decide to use a home pregnancy test, then it is crucial that it is done before, and not later than 10 a.m. in the morning.  Please check the most recent questions answered on the website for these reasons.

It is normal to take at least 3 months to detoxify from Petogen, so try and be patient if you are not pregnant.  You can still follow up with me further, once you have done a pregnancy test.  

I wish you well.

Kind regards

Angela

Dear K

Thank you for your question, and I do apologise for my late reply.  By now you would probably know if you are pregnant or not.  However in your particular instance, it would not have been likely.  Do be cautious in taking your pill on time, so as to avoid an unplanned pregnancy.

Warmest regards

Angela

Dear Z

Many thanks for your question. 

There are a number of supplements that can be taken to prepare the body for a pregnancy.  You need to be aware that ten years is a long time to have taken Nur-Isterate without a break of any kind, so it may take a little longer for you to fall pregnant.  But then the baby waiting game often requires patience!  As you have been off Nur-Isterate for six months now, I suggest that you be aware that you may take up to another 6 months to further detoxify from this contraceptive.  You cannot acelerate a process like this when you have been on this contraceptive for ten years! 

I recommend to all my prospective mothers that they do a 90 day programe (or 3 months) of supplementation.   You can do the following before you fall pregnant, during pregnancy, and for at least 3 months after delivery.

I recommend for you: 

CHELA-PREG by Arctic, as x1 tablet daily after breakfast.  This is an affective and the most suitable multivitamin for pregnancy, and will prevent iron deficiency anaemia.

MUM OMEGA by Equazen, as x1 capsule daily, preferably after supper.  This omega supplement will prepare your body and assist your baby in forming healthy brain, nerve and muscular tissue.  

I wish you all the best of luck with your baby venture!

Warm regards

Angela

Dear M

Many thanks for your question.

I suggest that you make an appointment to see either your general practitioner or gynaecologist please, as it is very important that it be determined that you are not carrying an ectopic pregnancy with your signs and symptoms mentioned.  Your doctor will also take blood so as to confirm whether there is a pregnancy or not  -  a result can be received within a minimum of two hours.  

Please do make this responsible appointment soonest.

Kind regards

Angela

Dear C

Many thanks for your question.  A urine pregnancy test should always be done in the morning, preferably before 10 a.m. as the hormone which is tested in urine for pregnancy is only concentrated in the morning.  I strongly recommend that you do another pregnancy test again, and this time have the BHCG quantitative blood test done at a primary health clinic or with your medical doctor, so as to have a more definitive result. 

Two definitive lines do indicate a pregnancy, BUT when a urine test is tested in the afternoon, it can read as a false positive  -  hence my strong recommendation for the blood test. 

Good luck, and please be retested.

Kind regards

Angela

Dear Beauty

Many thanks for your question. 

Taking a mixture of the three different contraceptive injections, being Nur-Isterate, Depo Provera and Petogen (which is the generic for Depo Provera) over an eleven month time span will most definitely upset your hormonal and menstrual cycle.  Why were you taking three different contraceptive injections in the space of three months?  

Your body will attempt to rectify itself on its own.  However, having had a miscarriage as well, will also have affected your hormonal equilibrium. 

I suggest that you give yourself time and add loads of patience while your body rectifies itself hormonally.  Do give yourself another three to six months, and during this waiting time, I recommend that you take the following :  

Take CHASTEBERRY PLUS by Metagenics, as x1 capsule, 3 times a day after food.  This product will assist in regulating your hormonal cycle, and promoting reproductive health.  This is a natural product and has other ingredients like Black Cohosh, and Ashwagandha for increasing a better sense of well being, promoting women's health and a healthy libido.  Continue with this product until your menstrual cycle returns.

At the same time, commence taking the following two products for three months please :

CELA-PREG by Arctic, as x1 tablet after breakfast every morning.  This is an excellent multivitamin formulated for women trying to fall pregnant; for during pregnancy; and for 3 months after pregnancy.  It is an excellent source of iron where a mother is iron deficient and suffers from a malabsorption of iron.

MUM OMEGA by Equazen, as x1 capsule at night, about an hour or so after food.  Taking a good omega supplement is essential to promote a healthy baby's brain tissue, nervous system, and musculosceletial system.  

Please follow the above advise as given, and this should greatly assist you in achieving your dream of having a baby!

I wish you all the luck in the world!  Please let me know how you do and when it finally happens.   

Warm regards

Angela

Dear T

Thank you for your question.

The possibility of an unplanned pregnancy is always there, whether a person is married or not.  As you give no clinical profile, I therefore encourage you to have a pregnancy test, even if just for peace of mind.  Contraceptives have a 98% effectivity rate.  So, there is always a 2% possibility of a pregnancy. 

What concerns me more though, is the fact that you give your age category of being between 20 - 25 years of age.  You really do need to be careful about having a sexual relationship with a stranger!  You are opening yourself up to a host of possibilities, not least of which is Hepatitis B and HIV.  I urge you to be more careful.

Kind regards

Angela

Dear S

Many thanks for your question. 

Sometimes a mother or father may have a genetic predisposition to mothering or fathering a baby with Down's Syndrome ( medically referred to as Trisomy 21).  Other causes can be as a result of an expectant mother being too young and is not fully developed to carry a child.  The age of a mother has a lot to do with it.  A woman over the age of 36 years may be requested by her gynaecologist to consider having blood tests done to see if there is a genetic possibility for this medical condition.  From the age of 40 years and up the possibility becomes stronger.

I do recommend that you be under the guidance of a gynaecologist who will do all the necessary checks and blood tests as applicable to your age. 

I know of many mothers who had their babies in their late thirties and even mid forties and had beautiful babies, and they have all grown into great individuals.  Don't let your sister-in-law's situation put you off, but do as I suggest  -  stay with a gynaecologist and have all the necessary done. 

Down's Syndrome babies are very special by the way, as they bring so much love into a family.  There are varying degrees of Down's Syndrome as well.  Some children grow up and hold down jobs and manage to live a reasonable way of life.  Then there are others who can be more prone to respiratory and cardiovascular problems.  If your sister-in-law gives unconditional love, provides a stimulating environment and nourishes her child properly, there is every reason that this will help to provide her baby meet his daily challenges as a Down's baby.  Please tell your family that they are in for a lot of reciprocal loving from your new little nephew! 

I wish you well and all the best of good luck with your own baby planning! 

Warm regards

Angela  

Dear T

Thank you for your question. I am sorry to read of your loss and I'm sure it was a trying period for you and your family. If you are ready to try again though then I wish you the best of luck.

To create the most hospitable uterine environment to hold on to and nurture a pregnancy there are indeed certain nutrients you require more so than usual. Things like folate, extra iron, probiotics and high doses of omega 3's are essential to a healthy pregnancy and a healthy baby. A good pregnancy supplement is definitely indicated and the recommendation is to begin it four weeks before beginning to try and conceive and continuing until birth, possibly until breast feeding has stopped.

Options available to you include the PregOmega you mentioned, DF50 and, my favorite, Wellness Essentials for Pregnancy from Metagenics. Which one depends on whether you prefer tablets or powdered shakes, how regularly you prefer taking a supplement (once or twice daily) and your budget. Visit your nearest health shop, pharmacy or Wellness Warehouse and ask compare the different products available in your area.

Warm regards

Yesheen Singh

Dear Lerato

Many thanks for your query.  Yes, there is a very small possibility of falling pregnant while on Nur-Isterate.  There is about a 98% efficasy, and a 2% possibility of falling pregnant,  although the likelikhood of falling pregnant is not common.  Usually there are other factors which would have influenced the likelihood of falling pregnant.  Some of these factors would be e.g. taking a prescribed cough mixture, or taking a pharmaceutical antibiotic, or for some women missing the specified date for the next contraceptive injection as was advised by the family planning sister, to name a few reasons. 

Please make sure that a pregnancy test has been confirmed with a BHCG quantitaitive blood test, as done by a pathology service, so as to avoid disappointment.

With kind regards

Angela

Dear Speed

Many thanks for your query.  I do indeed remember your query last November. 

With your wife having had one of her Fallopian tubes removed, there is a possibility that she may have a 50% chance of falling pregnant.  But do not lose heart, as so much is possible today.  So long as your wife is well and healthy, and you both have a good dose of patience, there is no reason as to why it should not happen for you both  -  it just might take a little longer.  

Would it be possible for you both to make an appointment to see me at the Kloof Well Clinic in Cape Town?  Alternatively, please phone me so that we can discuss other options for you prior to you having to be referred to a specialist.

I look forward to hearing from you soon.

Warmest regards

Angela   

Dear P

Many thanks for your question. 

Depending on how long you were taking Nur-Isterate for, this alone can determine how long the chemical components will take to be released from the different systems of the body.  Should you have been on Nur-Isterate for up to two years without a rest or break, you will need at least six months minimum to detoxify from this contraceptive.  Unfortunately, you do not state the length of time you have been on Nur-Isterate for  -  but you are most welcome to let me know and then I could give you a more definitive answer.  Please, just copy this original query from youself, with my current reply.   

Home pregnancy tests should always be done in the morning, as it is the human chorionic gonadotrophin hormone (HCG hormone) which is checked for when testing the urine for a home pregnancy test, as this is the simplest of pregnancy tests.  Preferably to do the test before 10 a.m.   

With the information given, I suggest that you give yourself at least another month of detoxification.  Other factors are also important, like eating correctly, getting enough exercise, drinking sufficient water, not smoking, and destressing.  Smoking and stress can seriously inhibit conception!  

Do try and be patient   -  this can be a testing time for this quality, and I am sure that if you are healthy enough it will happen. 

Please let me know how you do!

Warmest regards

Angela

Dear D

Thank you for your question. Cilift, otherwise known as Citalopram, is an antidepressant of the SSRI class. The manufacturer says that safety in pregnancy has not been established and most practitioners prefer not to use SSRI's during pregnancy because of it's unpredictability. I think it is great that you stopped as soon as you found out you were pregnant and I think that you did it in time to minimise the risk to your baby. To further minimise the risk I would recommend beginning a multivitamin formulated for expecting mothers that has high doses of folate which is know to reduce the risk of neural tube defects in babies.

That said if your condition required an antidepressant I would not go without something else to help stablise your mood, especially now during pregnancy when your hormones will be playing games with your mind. I would recommend Omega 3's in good doses and a follow-up with your psychiatrist or GP for an evaluation of whether a replacement antidepressant is indicated.

Many thanks and warm regards

Yesheen

Dear K

Many thanks for your question.

Pharmaceutical antibiotics can definitely interfere with the effectiveness of a contraceptive.  I suggest that you have a pregnancy test done to determine whether you are pregnant or not, and also for peace of mind.  Having been on Nur-Isterate for only 2 months so far, and then an antibiotic etc. could result in a pregnancy. 

Kind regards

Angela

Dear KK

Many thanks for your reply and for your additional questions.  I appreciate you thanking me as these queries are mainly answered in spare time. 

It would be great if you could make an appointment to see me so that I could assess you fully myself.  Having done five pregnancy tests correctly with the home kits would confirm that you are not pregnant.  However, you could do the BHCG blood test which checks for pregnancy.  The Kloof Clinic does this pregnancy test. 

Not having seen you myself, I would now query iron deficiency anaemia, as your symptoms currently are. 

There is the possibility that if you so desperately want to fall pregnant, your body may mimic signs and symptoms of pregnancy and develop what is called a phantom pregnancy. 

There are routine blood tests that can determine certain medical conditions.  Please visit your general practitioner for an appointment so as to be fully assessed and examined as I suspect that your body is out of balance.

Please do the above, then e-mail me the results, and I will advise you further from thereon. 

Take care now,

Warm regards

Angela

Dear A

Thank you for your question. Unfortunately there is no way to speed up the clearance of the synthetic hormones out of your system. Depending on your rate of metabolism it can take from a couple of months up to a year from the date of your last injection before you fall pregnant, i.e. up to December 2011.

I would recommend putting it out of your mind, using a good multivitamin for expecting mothers and enjoying the journey.

Many thanks and warm regards

Yesheen

Dear J

Congratulations and thank you for your question. Pregnancy and specifically conception is a very mysterious event, and even today scientists are baffled by the how, why, when of it all. What we do know today is that there is very little correlation between the physical act of bleeding during menstruation and the release of an egg and resultant conception. Only 30% of women fall pregnant around the time of their periods. Sperm have been know to survive for quite a while within an accommodating uterus and ovulation often happens a couple of days prior to menstruation. This is why whenever an obstetrician estimates the due date of a pregnancy they are obliged to add "+/- 2 weeks" to account for this variability.

A more accurate method to predict ovulation is the core body temperature method because we find that your temperature rises slightly around the time of ovulation.

I would recommend not worrying about the how right now and focusing on supporting a healthy growing baby with appropriate nutrition, exercise and supplementation. Look forward and not to the past.

Many thanks and warm regards

Yesheen

Dear D

Many thanks for your question.  I apologise for the unfortunate delay. 

It will take at least 2 - 3 months for you to detoxify from the accumulation of the hormones in the contraceptive pill, as 6 years is a long time without a break from your conctraceptive.  You need to regulate your hormonal cycle back into sync before you can fall pregnant.  To do this I recommend a nutritional supplement called VITEX AGNUS CASTUS BERRY by Viridian, as x1 capsule to be taken 3 times a day after meals.  This product will assist in re-regulating your hormonal cycle.

I also suggest that you take NAT MUR TISSUE SALT NO. 9, in the Allison Effting tissue salt range, and to be taken as x1 celloid, 3 times a day, ideally 10 - 15 minutes before meals.  Nat Mur has a primary function as a fluid regulator, and will assist in bringing back the flow of your menses. 

Feeling bloated and having an increase in appetite could be due to a number of factors, e.g. Are you a smoker, and if so have you stopped smoking recently?   An increase in appetite is an indication of a worm or parasite infestation.  Should these symptoms persist, then they need to be looked at again soon.

I wish you lots of luck with your baby plans!

Warmest regards

Angela

Dear T

Thank you for your question. I need a couple of details around your case before I can offer an opinion. Firstly and most importantly what is the name and the stage of your immune deficiency disease? Secondly what treatment are you receiving for it? Thirdly what other medical illnesses do you have and fourthly what other medication or supplements are you using?

Your gynae was correct in that for some forms of autoimmune diseases or immune deficiency syndromes the change in your internal metabolism, neuro-endocrine system and immune system during pregnancy are very powerful healing forces that revive a flagging immune response and rebalance those parts of the system that were lagging behind. But there are other conditions where it will just place more strain on an already compromised system and turn out badly for both mother and baby. The treatment of these types of illnesses are in themselves often harmful to successfully conceived fetuses.

Please reply with more detail and I will try to be of further assistance, or alternatively you can make an appointment via www.healthnation.co.za for a more direct conversation.

Many thanks and warm regards

Yesheen

Dear B

Thank you for your question. You are absolutely correct on all of your assumptions. It is indeed quite easy to miss a pregnancy on urine testing especially if it is only a couple of weeks old. What we test for in the urine is a hormone produced by the tissue from the placenta growing into the wall of the uterus. The larger the placenta the greater the level of this hormone, called Beta HCG. Similarly the smaller the placenta and embryo the lower the concentration of this hormone. Most urine tests do not pick up these low levels in early pregnancy.

I would ask your friend to follow you advice and visit her doctor for a blood or serum Beta HCG test to confirm whether she is indeed pregnant or not. The earlier she has it done the wider her choice of options regarding the way forward are.

Many thanks and warm regards

Yesheen

Dear N

Thank you for your question. I think that until proven otherwise you are most probably pregnant. Three months without periods accompanied by unprotected sexual intercourse, combined with a positive pregnancy tests equates to a pregnancy to me. You can confirm with another urine test if you'd like - I don't think it's necessary for a blood test given the information you provide.

I am not that worried by the spotting you experienced - there is a phenomenon called "implantation bleeding" that women who are pregnant experience after they conceive. This correlates to the period when the embryo passes out of the fallopian tubes and attaches to the wall of the uterus, where it begins to grow further.

What is worrying though is the pain you are experiencing along the left-side of your abdomen. I would recommend an ultrasound to confirm placement of the embryo within the uterus and not in the left fallopian tube. If all is well then the pain you are experiencing may simply be your body adjusting itself to accommodate the new life you are growing within.

I would immediately begin with a multivitamin specially formulated to support an expecting mom, with extra iron and folate, both shown to be beneficial to mom and baby, and have you vitamin D3 levels also tested.

Many thanks and warm regards

Yesheen

Dear D

Thank you for your return e-mail.  Dr Botha's comments do make sense.  This article is not a clinically trialed based document, but what she has to say is relevant when you think about what metal toxicity can do to the body.  So by all means have a heavy metal challenge test done.  The healthier you are prior to conception can only benefit your baby.  All the very best of luck with your plans.

Kind regards

Angela       

Dear N

Thank you for your question.  I understand that you would like to fall pregnant.  Your hormonal pattern is definitely out of rhythm   -    this tends to happen as a result of the withdrawal of hormones due to the contraceptive having been stopped, and your body trying to re establish it's natural cycle rhythm.  The chemical components in Nur-Isterate can take up to 9 months, and in some cases a little longer, to be released from the different systems of the body. 

I suggest that you make an appointment with your gynaecologist for a checkup.  This checkup would entail a breast examination, a cervical smear, a full assessment and examination.  Your hormonal pattern may well come back on its own, or your doctor may suggest an alternative.  This you should feel free to discuss with your doctor.  You can continue taking Agnus Castus Berry as x1 capsule daily after food.  

I also recommend that you do a 90 day (3 month) supplement intake so as to bring your body up to par.  A good quality multivitamin like VIRIDIAN PREGNANCY FOR WOMEN as x1 capsule daily after breakfast.  And also an omega supplement like MUM OMEGA  by Equazen, as x1 capsule once a day after food.  These two products will ensure that your baby maintains healthy brain, nerve and muscle tissue.  My other reasoning behind recommending a multivitamin is that the pharmaceutical contraceptives all deplete the skeletal structure of the body of many different important micronutrients which assist the body to function normally.  So in preparing you for the important occasion of a conception, I want you to be well too.

Start off by seeing your doctor first, and then we can reappraise your situation again, as your hormonal cycle needs to be established.

Warm regards

Angela 

Dear R

Thank you for your question. Am I correct in stating that your GP did an initial pregnancy test and transvaginal ultrasound and found no signs of pregnancy and then asked that you monitor for a further 10 days for any appearance of your period, which if it didn't come meant that you should return to her for a repeat ultrasound and pregnancy test? From your question I take it that your period has not returned, or not normally at least. Have you returned to see your GP? Has the GP repeated the ultrasound and the pregnancy test? 

The ultrasound is very dependent on the skill of the person doing the ultrasound when it comes to seeing an embryo growing within the womb, especially in the early days. It is usually only after the third month that it become more easily visible. If you have not had a second ultrasound yet I would recommend going to a professional sonographer for a follow-up test. Most X-Ray departments at the private hospital groups have experienced sonographers.

The blood test is also less sensitive in the first couple of weeks, as the level hormone tested for is directly proportional to the size of the embryo - the larger the embryo the higher the value of the hormone. If the embryo is still quite small then the level of the hormone is too low for conventional tests to pick it up in your blood. In this case I would recommend waiting at least four weeks after your first blood test and then repeating the test if necessary.

In the meantime I would highly suggest using a multivitamin supplement with extra folate, iron and vitamin B 12 just in case you are indeed pregnant. These nutrients have been shown to positively benefit the growing embryo. If after the four week period both your ultrasound and blood test are negative, and your periods have not returned to normal then I would suggest visiting a gynaecologist to find out why you are experiencing what we call dysmenorrhoea.

Many thanks and warm regards

Yesheen

Dear J

Thank you for your follow up query.  In my professional opinion and to reaffirm once again, it is important that you see a medical doctor as a result of your varied results.  You should not be bleeding for so long like this.  I really do not want you to miscarry again.  The clinic or surgery where the BHCG blood tests were done should have explained these levels and in such a way that they are clearly understood -  if not, then their service has been inadequately concluded.  Don't be afraid of asking for an explanation  -  you are paying for a service, so you are fully entitled to be given that!  

So, as a result of the ongoing blood flow and the varied BHCG level results now dropping, you need to see a general practitioner at the very least.  Otherwise, your alternative is to see the medical doctor on duty in a government casualty or emergancy department  -  this will involve a possible length of time where you will be required to wait in order to be seen. 

You see in obstetrics, when there is a history of a miscarriage, there is always a possibility of it happening again, and especially with a 3rd result level given of 680 which is lower than the previous 2nd reading  -  this is where my concern steps in.   However, I am not aware of where these tests were done, nor can I account for the standard or quality of the tests, hence stressing the importance of you having a follow up consultation with your GP please. 

Do take care and try and rest.

Warmest regards

Angela

Dear J

Many thanks for your concerned query.  Your BHCG levels of 625 and then an increase to 725, do indeed indicate that you are 5 weeks pregnant.  Congratulations on falling pregnant so quickly after a miscarriage.  Some women do tend to bleed in a pregnancy  -  what is important is the consistency of the blood and for how long, and if there is any odour or clots in the blood discharge.  As your pregnancy is so soon after your miscarriage, your body may still to some extent be still recovering from the miscarriage.  

Just to make sure, I do recommend that you make an appointment to see your gynaecologist so that he can assess and examine you in person.  There is a good chance that you are fine, however it would be better for you to be fully checked out.  In total I would be happier if you did not bleed during your pregnancy, as there are obstetrical conditions which are indicated when there is a blood discharge.  In short, I do not want you to have another miscarriage.

All the best of luck with your pregnancy!

Warmest regards

Angela

Dear H

Thank you for your question.  Your query seems to have been from some time back.  I was sure this question had already been answered, and in detail! 

Babies are not so easy to plan for, for some couples.  Is there any way that you could come and see me together as a couple?  You both have to be well and healthy for a pregnancy to be successful.

You are quite correct, an acidic environment is more suitable for conceiving a baby girl  -  my sincere apologies.

If you feel up to it, you could let me know how you currently are, and we can take it from there.  But your situation as originally given, would need some monitoring.

Again I apologise for the unfortunate delay.

Kind regards

Angela
 

Dear Speed

Actually there is lots that you can do!

As far as quality supplements go, I recommend for you FERTILITY FOR MEN by Viridian and is to be taken as x2 capsules daily after food.  This product will assist in better sperm quality, sperm motility, sperm production and in your own general wellbeing.  There is a nappi code for medical aids, and this product is free of wheat, gluten, preservatives, colourants, and all animal by products.

Only wear cotton underpants, and not to be too tight as this can lower sperm production.  So, stay away from nylon and other synthetic fibres. 

Eat correctly as in lots of fresh vegetables and fruit daily.  Raw rolled oats for breakfast every morning is loaded with vitamin B.  Drink 2-3 litres of preferably filtered water daily. 

Do take the time and effort to set the scene with her and make sure that you attend to her needs, so that she is fully relaxed.  Feeling stressed because of the need to fall pregnant can put a strain on the situation.  Just relax and enjoy each other!  When it happens, let it happen!  Falling pregnant involves a number of dynamics.

Good luck to both of you  -  It would be great to hear your news once it happens! 

Warmest regards

Angela

Dear Speed

Thank you for your query.  First of all, I must stress that it is very important that your wife remains under the supervision of a gynaecologist with her obstetrical history. 

There are a number of different supplements that can be recommended.  I always recommend a good multivitamin and an omega supplement for a 3 month (90 day) programme prior to conception.  She could take CHELA PREG by Arctic as x1 tablet daily after breakfast every morning  -  this is an excellent multivitamin for pre conception, during pregnancy and even for 2 - 3 months post delivery.  The omega supplement formulated for pregnancy is MUM OMEGA by Equazen and taken as x1 capsule daily in the morning or evening.  Both these products will assist in forming healthy brain, nerve and muscle tissue.

She does need to eat correctly, and by that I mean lots of fresh vegetables and fruit, a well balanced diet and to drink at least 2 litres of filtered water daily.  Rest is important with her history.  She is welcome to telephone me and I will discuss with her when her peak ovulation times would be, so as to assist her further.  My contact clinic line is 021-4875435 or 4875420 09h00 - 16h00.  I am currently on leave as of this afternoon, and will be back on 01/12/2010. 

All the very best of luck to you both! 

Warmest regards

Angela     

Dear Johny

Many thanks for your query.  Congratulations on being prospective parents!

Cramping during a pregnancy should not be ignored.  I do recommend that she sees her gynaecologist or general practitioner for an appointment soon.  There is no cause for panic, but this must be assessed please. 

Reassure her with your loving support and accompany her, if you can, to the above appointment.  Help her to avoid stress as much as possible. 

Good luck to both of you, and if you get chance, let me know how your girlfriend is doing with her pregnancy.

Warmest regards

Angela  

Hi

Even though your one tube was removed you will still have a normal hormonal cycle and ovulate from both ovaries. The egg from the ovary on the intact side will pass down the tube and be available for fertilisation. While one generally ovulates from both sides every month, sometimes one will only ovulate from one ovary. This could mean that you don’t have an egg available for fertilisation one month. While it’s not as easy for you to become pregnant as you have fewer available eggs, you can definitely still become pregnant!

The use of Clomid depends on each individual and needs to be part of a comprehensive fertility plan. The length of time that you would need to take it depends on the level of your hormones to start with as well as your hormonal response to the Clomid. The effect on the ovaries should also be monitored by ultrasound scan. It would be best to ask your Dr about the length of treatment as s/he will be monitoring your response and be able to give you an answer specific to you.

Warm regards

Gabriell

Dear M

Thank you for your query, and welcome to the Wellness Family! 

Yes indeed, you can most certainly then discontinue your Petogen contraceptive injections.  You do not say how old your little boy is currently, so to estimate a time span to determine when you would fall pregnant is difficult.  You need to understand that it would take a minimum of 3 months to an average of 6 months for the chemical components in Petogen to be released from all the systems of your body. 

I always recommend a multivitamin, which should be commenced prior to falling pregnant, during a pregnancy and post delivery.  A 3 month or 90 day programme is advisable for optimum results  -  this will prepare your body for a healthy pregnancy.  CHELA-PREG by Arctic is one of the most effective multivitamins for pregnancy, cost effective, and excellent for malabsorption of iron.  Take x1 tablet daily after breakfast.  Wellness Warehouse has a range of other quality vitamins for pregnancy in store. 

It is also advisable to take an omega supplement like MUM OMEGA by Equazen, as x1 capsule daily after breakfast, or after supper. 

A multivitamin and omega supplement will ensure that your baby will have healthy brain and nerve tissue.  Your own iron and mineral reserves will also then not be used by baby while in utero.   

All best wishes to you with your future plans!

Warmest regards

Angela

Dear M

Thank you for your question and I apologise for the delay.

So long as the urine test for pregnancy was done in the morning, and preferably before 10h00 (10 a.m.), then these two readings should be accurate.  General health should also be taken into consideration too, as e.g. low iron levels will cause the body to withhold menstrual flow.  Eating inrorrectly, a lack of sleep, and an insufficient intake of water, can all cause a period to be missed, coupled with stress. 

There would be no harm done to redo your BHCG pregnancy test again to make extra sure, should this still be causing you concern. 

Warm regards

Angela

Dear N

Thank you for your question. I think you should return to your doctor or local antenatal clinic as soon as possible. I suspect you may be experiencing gestational hypertension, or something a little more serious called pre-eclampsia. This is quite a dangerous situation for both you and the baby if your blood pressure is not brought under control as a matter of urgency.

Ask your doctor to please perform renal, liver and blood clotting function tests, as well as a urine dipstick test as part of his or her work up. These will help to ascertain the severity of systemic involvement.

Please don't hesitate to contact us if you experience any further difficulty

Many thanks and warm regards

Yesheen

Dear M

Thank you for your query.  I appreciate the detail given and congratulations on making such an exciting decision to add to your nest!     

I am so glad to hear that you had regular breaks from Nur-Isterate.  This contraceptive is formulated to preferably not be taken for longer than 2 years maximum at a time, and then to give your body a break of a minimum of 3 months to a maximum of 6 months of being off this injection.  The reason for all this is so that the body can release the chemical components (which settle in all the systems) from the body. 

It is great that you have a regular 28 day cycle.  Take your Pregnavit supplement for a further month, thereby making it 3 months minimum.  You could consider adding a quality omega supplement like MUM OMEGA by Equazen.  An omega supplement will ensure that your baby has healthy brain tissue and nervous system.  Both of these products can be taken safely before conception, while pregnant and after the delivery of your baby.

I suggest that you allow trying for at least a year.  However, some women do take a little longer to conceive.  Should it happen sooner, accept it as a bonus!  

Should you wish to see me for a more detailed assessment, you are welcome to contact me for an appointment on telephone number 021-4875420 or 4875435 between the hours of 09h00  -  16h00 at the Kloof Clinic at our Wellness Warehouse store in Cape Town.

All the best of luck in trying!

Warm regards

Angela

Dear X

Thank you for your question.

The Triphasil contraceptive pill usually takes between one to two months to work itself out of the body.  It could take a little longer if you have a slow metabolic rate, as apposed to a rapid metabolic rate.  N

Not having seen you for an assessment myself, and with the information given, you could stop taking the pill in late October or early November 2010.  However, please remember that your hormonal cycle is not like a light switch  -  It cannot be switched on and off!  Essentially, you should be able to stop your pill at least 2 months before January 2011, all being well.

You still need to eat correctly, have enough sleep, drink sufficient water, take gentle exercise, and be healthy of course, for a conception to take place.  

I wish you lots of luck with your endeavours!

Warmest regards

Angela

Dear A

Thank you for your query.  Experiencing a miscarriage can be a traumatic experience, and disappointing as well.  I am sorry to hear this.  Fortunately  though, it would have been very early in the pregnancy, and not later. 

This loss would most definitely have affected your periods as your homonal cycle would become a little 'topsy turvy'.  All considering, your pattern is a healthy one in spite of this experience.  Some women don't experience menses for a couple of months or more after a miscarriage.  Your menstrual pattern will right itself soon. 

In order to assist you in falling pregnant, I recommend a multivitamin supplement like VIRIDIAN PREGNANCY COMPLEX as x2 capsules daily after breakfast.  Also an omega supplement like MUMOMEGA by Equazen, as x1 capsule daily after food.  These two supplements will assist you in preparing your body for a healthy conception   -         Your baby will also be assured of having healthy brain, nerve and muscle tissue.  Take these supplements for a further 3 months.  They are quite safe to continue taking during pregnancy, and for a further 3 months after baby is born. 

I really wish you much luck and happiness.  Remember, that patience is very much required for this waiting time!

Warmest regards

Angela 

Dear A

Thank you for your query.  Your last injection administration for Nur-Isterate would have been 21/07/2010.  With you planning to fall pregnant, it will then not be necessary to have your injection again on the 15th of September. 

Depending on how long you were on Nur-Isterate for, as in months and years, you will then need to allow for a minimum of 3 to 6 months for the chemical components in this particular contraceptive to be released from all the different systems of the body.  This should be by January 2011 for you, bearing in mind that each woman is different, so it could happen just before 6 months, or take a little bit longer. 

In the interim, I recommend that you take the following supplements in order to prepare your body for conception : 

1)  Always a good multivitamin which contains folic acid e.g. CHELA-PREG by Arctic, as x1 tablet once a day after       breakfast.  Other alternative quality products are PREGNANCY COMPLEX  by Viridian.  Or PREGNAVIT M by G            Or PREGNAVIT M, by Georen Pharmaceuticals (Pty) Ltd.  

2)  An omega supplement, e.g. MUMOMEGA PREGNANCY by Equazen, as x1 capsule once a day after food.

It is best to do a 90 day supplementation programme of the above and really prepare your body for a healthy conception.  Often lots of patience is necessary while waiting for a pregnancy to happen.  Good luck, and 'hang in there'!   

Warm regards

Angela                 

Dear N

Thank you for your question.  With you having been on the Nur-Isterate contraceptive injection for 2 years, the chemical components in this particular contraceptive will take 6 months to be released from all the systems of your body.  So for you at this point, this has now happened.  However, your hormonal cycle is in a state of flux and does seem to be trying to adjust itself. 

Many questions have already been answered on pre-conception, pregnancy and fertility queries  -  these questions can be sourced from the question and answer panel under sexual health  -  they will assist you with further queries at this point.

With all considerations taken into account, I suggest that you see your gynaecologist for a full check up, and at the same time request of him that he prescribe one of the oral contraceptive pills that will regulate your hormonal cycle, according to the results of your full assessment and examination. 

Patience is a quality which has to be called upon when deciding to fall pregnant.  For some women it happens quickly, and then for others it can take a bit longer.   Having said this, I am sure it will finally happen!  Make this appointment first. 

All the best of luck!

Warm regards

Angela

Dear N

Due to the nature of these two results, it would be advisable that you contact your gynae directly.  It is vital that your medical doctor determines as to whether there is still a pregnancy, due your levels dropping from 46 to 14. 

Take care now,

Kind regards

Angela

Hi

Yes you will be able to become pregnant however it might take a bit of time. Some people become pregnant straight away while others take a little longer.

It generally takes a few months after stopping the injection for your natural hormonal cycle to re-establish before you can become pregnant. As your hormones are balancing it is possible to become pregnant before you have a period though.

You can use the time well by starting to prepare your body to be pregnant by relaxing, eating well and taking a good supplement.

Warms regards

Gabriell

Dear Y

Oral contraceptives prevent more than a 99.6% of unplanned pregnancies if used correctly, i.e. at the correct dose at the same time every day. When you begin skipping pills and changing doses you increase the possibility of falling pregnant. So to answer your question yes you may be pregnant. A urine test will pick it up within the first two weeks but if you cannot wait that long to confirm the diagnosis a blood pregnancy test can be done through your GP.

Many thanks and warm regards

Yesheen

Dear V

Thank you for your question. I'm sorry to hear of the challenges you are facing during what should be a joyous time in your life. You write you are six months pregnant, which translates into 24 weeks. Termination criteria in South Africa are broken down according to the gestation or the length of time you have been pregnant as follows:

1. In South Africa, any woman of any age can get an abortion by simply requesting it with no reasons given if she is less than 13 weeks pregnant.

2. If she is between 13 and 20 weeks pregnant, she can get the abortion if:

• Her own physical or mental health is at stake,
• The baby will have severe mental or physical abnormalities,
• She is pregnant because of incest,
• She is pregnant because of rape, or
• She is of the personal opinion that her economic or social situation is sufficient reason for the termination of pregnancy. 

3. If she is more than 20 weeks pregnant, she can get the abortion only if her or the fetus' life is in danger or there are likely to be serious birth defects.

As you can see a gestation of 24 weeks places you into the range where a termination is only legally allowed if there is a danger to your or the fetus' life. At 24 weeks there is a great chance that if a termination is performed the baby will survive, but will be unnecessarily harmed by being pulled out of the womb before it is fully developed.

My suggestion is to visit a social worker for advice on the different ways government can help you financially or socially in your current predicament, or to consider the route of adoption. There are many families out there struggling to have children and a good adoption agency would be able to connect you with suitable couples. Your local Child Welfare [031-312-9313] would be able to connect with you with reputable agencies. Be aware of child traffickers as they almost never look after the best interests of the child or the expectant mother.

Many thanks and warm regards

Yesheen

Many thanks for your query. 

To sort out your nausea and vomiting, I recommend you do the  following, which is 100% safe for you and your pregnancy :

Either one of these remedies will assist you greatly  -  just choose one  -  they are that affective.

1)  Emerex syrup as 20 mls (i.e. x4 teaspoonfuls) 3 times a day.  Preferably in a clean mouth.  This would be  the    allopathic/pharmaceutical choice.  

2)  Pulsatilla as 3 - 5 pillules 3 times a day, away from food, also in a clean mouth.  This would be the homeopathic choice.

I am concerned about you not being able to eat.  Once you have commenced the above try doing the following :

Keep some water crackers/water biscuits, even digestive biscuits, in a Tupperware container at your bedside.  Before rising in the morning chew or suck on 2 - 3 of these crackers.  This often helps to settle nausea.  Perhaps try a cup of tea without milk first 10 - 15 minutes after your crackers, and then the next morning with milk should you take milk with tea, and add honey.

Slowly reintroduce foods, preferably bland, and eat small meals every 2 - 3 hours through the day.  Make sure that you have at least 2 litres of filtered water daily.  Snack on all veggie strips and cubes and eat fresh fuit daily.  The trick is to settle your nausea, and to eat small and nutritious meals, often.  Yoghurt and delicious chicken broth based soups are excellent in assisting the body to get back on track.  A smoothie is also an excellent way of obtaining your nutrients and vitamins  -  a smoothie can be had once or twice a day.  Make sure that you drink sufficient filtered water daily, preferably at least 2 litres.

Avoid citrus, spicy foods, and foods that are too hot or too cold.

All the very best for your pregnancy.  All of the above should get you going!  Take care now -

Warmest regards

Angela 

Hi

If you were 9 days late on the 21st then you are probably about 4 weeks pregnant now. Prolonged use of Stilpane in the first 12 weeks can causes problems with lung development. While Stilpane should be avoided in pregnancy, I am sure that 2 tablets will not have caused a problem.

Implantation usually occurs around 8 days after conception and can cause cramps. It is normal to experience some cramps as the baby starts to grow, and your uterus and body to change, however if the pain increases or you have any bleeding or discharge then go to see your Dr.

Exercise is important during pregnancy. It keeps your body fit and strong which makes the birthing time easier! It should be completely safe for you to do gym classes however it is most important that you listen to your body. I don’t think that your chest pain is anything sinister, however it is best to avoid anything that results in pain and discomfort. The chest pain may result from hormonal changes or be completely unrelated. Listen to your body and avoid anything that causes pain. If you are concerned or if the pain persists, gets worse or is associated with nausea or shortness of breath go to see your Gynae or GP straight away.

Here are the links to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists exercise guidelines as well as the American Pregnancy Association exercise guidelines. These will give you more detailed information on exercise during pregnancy.

http://www.acog.org/publications/patient_education/bp119.cfm

http://www.americanpregnancy.org/pregnancyhealth/exerciseguidelines.html

Have fun!

Gabriell

Dear A

Thank you for your question. I appreciate how distressing this may be. The responsibility of having a child is not one to be played with, and as such unprotected sex should most definitely be re-evaluated. 

If your gynaecologist has done either a pelvic ultrasound or a hormonal blood test (quantitative beta-HCG) or both, and both come back negative then you can say with 100% certainty that you are not pregnant. If not then I would revisit and request these two tests if you are still experiencing the symptoms you listed above. Often when under stress and when your mind so strongly thinks you are pregnant your body will display the very same symptoms as those of a woman actually pregnant. This is referred to as pseudocyesis or false pregnancy and is most prevalent in women who are trying to fall pregnant but cannot for whatever reason, and to a lesser degree in women who fear they are pregnant so strongly that they manifest the symptoms physically. In your case the simplest and most direct answer is to revisit your gynaecologist and request the tests mentioned above. If both come back negative ask her/him to do a hormone profile to check if there are any irregularities with your sex hormone cycle. 

If it is an hormonal imbalance then I would recommend a good Omega 3 supplement, at least 400mg per day, and supplementation with Maca Root powder, in a daily shake for example to regulate your hormonal cycle.

Many thanks and warm regards

Yesheen

Many thanks for your e-mail and for coming forward for help and assistance. 

The Kloof Clinic at our Wellness Warehouse store in Kloof Street, Cape Town provides a family planning service.  You are welcome to make an appointment to see me so as to be assisted further.  My direct clinic land line in Cape Town is 021-4875435, or 4875420 to make a booking.  Full confidentiality is maintained.

It is really important to have adequate protection for contraception, especially as you are still so young to be engaged in sexual activity.  Should you not be geographically near, you will still need to register with a family planning clinic, and see a nursing sister or nursing practitioner who is qualified in providing this service. The sister will then assess you and guide you as to the best approach to take for your situation. 

The goverment and municipal clinics provide a free service.  Most of the Clicks stores provide a family planning service.  It would be best to find out if you need to make an appointment first, as this service may not be provided every day from monday to friday.    

I hope this all helps you.

Kind regards

Angela

Hi

Did the pain occur at the same time as the stomach bug? A common tummy bug shouldn’t affect your baby at all as your body can easily remove the infection. Since there has been no blood, unusual discharge or increasing pain I wouldn’t worry.

Have you had your first gynae appointment? If not now is a good time to go. The gynae can do a blood test to check your iron level. If it is low then you should start Autrin again, but if normal you shouldn’t use it. Continue with the Pregnavite until you see the gynae as this is a good general supplement for pregnancy. Your gynae can then advise you regarding the best supplements for you based on your blood test results.

Warm regards

Gabriell

Pregnacare Conception tablets provide nutritional support when trying to conceive. They support your body to function optimally, however as they do not alter your hormones cannot delay or change your menstrual cycle. If you have still not had your period by now then there is a good chance that you are pregnant. You can get a pregnancy test from a chemist or visit your GP to confirm. It is good to continue taking nutritional support even if you are pregnant so that your body will have all of the nutrients that you and your baby need.

Warm regards

Gabriell

Hi

I apologise for the delay in getting to your question; I hope that you got help sooner.

Eggs are viable for about 24 hours while sperm can live for up to 5 days. So there is a fertile period of about 5 days in the middle of the cycle. How fast do you fall pregnant - as soon as the sperm meets the egg, which can occur any time during the 24 hours after ovulation. After the egg and sperm meet they start to develop into an embryo and implant into the wall of the uterus. The question of when this is considered to be ‘alive’ leads to a very philosophical debate which only you can answer for you.

The morning after pill works by preventing ovulation as well as preventing implantation into the wall of the uterus. It needs to be taken within 72 hours of unprotected intercourse (ideally within 24 hours) to be effective. There is no evidence to suggest that emergency contraception will damage a baby so if you took it too late and were already pregnant, it is unlikely that the developing embryo (‘baby’) would be harmed.

At this point if you have not taken emergency contraception already, then it is best to wait and see.

I hope all turns out well.

Warm regards

Gabriell

It generally takes a few months after stopping the pill for your natural hormonal cycle to re-establish before you can become pregnant. While your hormones are balancing it is possible to become pregnant before you have a period.

The symptoms that you are experiencing are commonly caused by hormonal changes, and pregnancy is a strong possibility. When last did you do the pregnancy test? I would suggest repeating it now and then visiting your GP or gynae if it is positive (to establish how far you are) or if it is negative and the symptoms persist.

Kind regards

Dr Gabriell Prinsloo

Sorry to take so long to reply - I have been away.

According to my calculation, you are 34 weeks and 3 days pregnant (today) according to your dates. It is important to confirm these dates on ultrasound scan which I am sure your gynae has done. Term (when the baby is ready to come out) is defined as 37 to 42 weeks. Your c/section is planned for when you are 37 weeks, which is when they are usually done – the right time for your baby! Your gynae will have confirmed that your baby is developing normally before planning the c/section. You will probably also have a check up in the last week or two of April during which your gynae will confirm that your baby is ready to be born. If you have any further questions that would be a good time to ask your gynae.

Have fun!

Kind Regards

Dr Gabriell Prinsloo

Swelling of the genitalia is normal in pregnancy, however generally it wouldn’t result in a lot of white discharge.

I suggest that you confirm that you do not have a Candida infection as this is the most common cause of red itchy skin and a white ‘cottage cheesy’ discharge.

If there is no Candida then it is most likely that the redness has resulted from rubbing of the swollen labia together. The mucous membrane becomes raw, itchy and more swollen, and there may be a discharge. This then results in a vicious cycle leading to more rubbing, more swelling and more itching.

The key is to break the cycle and allow the mucous membranes to heal.

First thing is NEVER to scratch – although this is easier said than done (I find that in the moments when it is difficult to resist, it helps to put cool pressure on the area until the itch has subsided)! It is also important to avoid anything that will increase the rubbing. So wear loose fitting natural fibre clothing especially panties and avoid intercourse until it has healed. Keep your genital area clean and dry, especially in hot weather when there is a tendency to become sweaty and damp. Use warm water and gentle soap or aqueous cream to wash with and pat dry – this can be done morning and evening. You could also use Vaseline or barrier cream (such as is used for babies with nappy rash) to protect the area and reduce friction until it has healed.

It is also important to make sure that you are eating yoghurt daily to help maintain a healthy balance of vaginal bacteria.

Kind regards

Dr Gabriell Prinsloo

Unfortunately there is no clear answer as to exactly when you will become pregnant. It often takes the body a few months to re-establish a regular hormonal cycle after stopping the injection. Only once your hormonal cycle has balanced will you be able to become pregnant.

Other factors will also influence how soon you become pregnant. It is important to have sex frequently around the time that you ovulate (about day 14 of the cycle – the cycle starts on the first day of menstruation). It is also difficult to become pregnant if you or your partner is stressed.

So relax, rest, be patient, eat well, start taking multivitamin and omega supplements, exercise gently and have sex frequently especially around your ovulation time. You can use the time to make sure that your body is ready to be able to nurture a healthy baby.

Kind regards

Dr Gabriell Prinsloo

The Nur-Isterate contraceptive intramuscular injection has a depot (slow release) effect in the body, so therefore because of its formulation, it takes up to 6 months for the chemical components to be released from all the systems of the body.   By June 2010 this process would have been completed for you.  Because you have not been on Nur-Isterate for many years and not for more than 21 months, you will have successfully completed this process by June 2010.  Your hormonal system should have started to reregulate itself from June. 

The contraceptive injections inhibit ovulation from occurring, hence you not having your periods in the time that you were on Nur-Isterate.  Once menstruation is re-established, you can monitor your cycle and then determine whether you have a 28 day cycle, or a 30 or 31 day cycle.  Early indications of your menstruation cycle settling down, will be spotting and or a small period lasting between 2-3 days. 

You can already start to take vitamin supplements as of now so as to specifically prepare your body for conception  -  these supplements have been covered in detail on our website under www.wellnesswarehouse.com for fertility, conception and pregnancy.  It is advisable to take a relevant multivitamin supplement with an omega supplement for 90 days (3 months) prior to conception, so as to prepare your body for the healthy process of carrying a child.  Should you fall pregnant before the 3 months is up, this would be all well and good, you would then just need to continue supplementation, even after baby is born.  All chemically based contraceptives deplete the body of valuable minerals, so please do your vitamin supplementation, as well as eating correctly and healthily. 

Kind regards, Angela, Nursing Practitioner.   

It is highly unlikely to become pregnant the day your periods end. To become pregnant it is necessary for an egg and a sperm to merge. Eggs are released at ovulation which occurs around day 14 of the cycle and sperm can live for up to 5 days, so there is a fertile period of only about 5 days in the middle of the cycle. This however depends on a regular cycle. If for some reason the cycle is irregular or if on the pill, pills were not taken or were not absorbed properly, it might be possible to get pregnant at a different point in the cycle.

However, I am sure that you are not pregnant as you are on the pill and using a condom. Any feelings of illness association with pregnancy would usually take several days if not weeks to develop. Your feeling sick most likely occurred as a result of an infection that coincidentally started at that time.

I hope you are feeling better by now! If not, I would advise that you visit your GP, who can do any tests that are necessary.

Kind regards

Dr Gabriell Prinsloo

Headaches are very common in pregnancy and there are many causes for them. They can result from normal physiological changes that happen during pregnancy such as a change in hormones or an increase in the amount of blood in the body. They can also occur as a result of poor diet, low blood sugar, dehydration, stress, poor posture and lack of sleep. High blood pressure can also cause headaches, so it is important that your Gynaecologist checks your blood pressure.

To prevent headaches, make sure that you are eating frequent small meals and drinking enough water, get lots of rest and relaxation, stretch and exercise gently and regularly, and practice having a good posture. Avoid taking medication as much as possible but if you do need something use Panado (but as little as possible). If your headaches get worse (more painful and more frequent) or if you have blurry vision associated with the headache, then it is advisable to go to see your Gynae immediately.

It is not good to take Stilpane during pregnancy. 2 of the 4 components of Stilpane (Codeine phosphate and Meprobamate) should not be taken during pregnancy or during breastfeeding. In addition Stilpane contains caffeine which should be avoided as much as possible.

If your blood tests show that your iron is low, then you should be taking an iron supplement such as Ferrimed. This is safe for your baby in the correct dose. You do not need to be concerned about the effect of too little or too much iron on your baby as your Gynae would have given you the correct dose and treatment in response to your blood test results.

So, to summarize, continue to take the Ferrimed according to your Gynae’s instructions, and continue with the Chela-preg and Mum-omega throughout the pregnancy and while breastfeeding. Stop the Stilpane. If you really need a pain tablet use only Panado and only when absolutely necessary. Every tablet you are taking is for a specific purpose so this is not too many.

Kind Regards

Dr Gabriell Prinsloo

It is unlikely that you are pregnant if you are on the pill and the pregnancy test came back as negative.

However it is possible (although the chance is very small) to become pregnant on the pill if you have missed tablets or if the tablets that you have taken were not absorbed such as during a bout of diarrhoea or vomiting.

Are you still having a period in the weeks that you are taking the inactive tablets? If you are, then you are not pregnant. Have you experienced any changes that suggest that you might be pregnant – tender breasts, enlarged breasts, strange cravings, unusual nausea or is the weight specifically on your lower abdomen? Have there been other reasons that might have precipitated weight gain – less exercise, increased stress, eating more than usual?

If you are unsure or are having any symptoms of pregnancy, repeat the pregnancy test. If you can’t pin point a reason for the weight gain, then I would suggest consulting your Doctor to get a specific diagnosis.

Kind regards

Dr Gabriell Prinsloo

Chela-Preg is a complete multi-vitamin and mineral supplement, which should be taken throughout pregnancy. It is made specifically for pregnant women so will contain all the vitamins and minerals that you and your baby need. Ideally, Omega supplements (such as Mum-omega) should also be taken throughout pregnancy, especially during the third trimester, as this is the time that rapid brain development takes place. So I would recommend taking the Omega supplements again.You would only need to take additional supplements if you had a specific deficiency and your Gynae would have checked for that.

Hydrocephalus is usually caused by injury, infection or genetic abnormalities, but not by a deficiency of folic acid. Folic acid supplements reduce the chance of birth defects such as neural tube defects and spina bifida. It is important to take folic acid before conception and during the first trimester (first 12 weeks). Autrin contains folic acid as well as vitamin B12, vitamin C and iron, and is used to treat anaemia. Your Gynae would have confirmed that you don’t have anaemia before he stopped the Autrin; so if there is no anaemia, it is no longer necessary to take it. You do not need to be concerned about the Folic acid as the Chela-Preg contains all that you need.

After birth, it is important to continue to eat well and take a multivitamin and mineral supplement, as well as an omega supplement, as your body will continue to supply your baby with essential nutrients through your milk.

Continue going to your Gynae for follow up throughout the pregnancy, follow their advice, eat well and take the Chela-Preg and Mum-Omega, exercise gently and rest, and you will be doing the best you can to have a healthy baby.

Enjoy your pregnancy!

Regards Dr Gabriell Prinsloo

The active ingredient in Metro gel is metronidazole which is commonly used to treat bacterial vaginosis. It is a class B medication which means that it is presumed safe based on animal studies, but there are no well-controlled human studies available. The Manufacturer however recommends avoiding its use during pregnancy; especially during the first trimester. The advantage of the gel over the oral tablets is that less is absorbed into the blood so blood levels are much lower.

Vaginal discharges are very common and complex, as there are many different causes. Discharges from infections usually cause unpleasant odours, while there are many causes for white discharges including infection but also normal physiological changes. These physiological (normal) discharges are also common and occur during sexual activity and during pregnancy

As the course of treatment is 5 days, you should have completed it by now. Have you noticed an improvement? If there is improvement – great! Don’t use any more medication unless absolutely necessary. If there is no improvement I would suggest that you go back to your Gynae or to another Gynae to confirm if this is a normal discharge or if there is infection, and if infection to make a specific diagnosis.

As you are now in the second trimester, there should be no harm to your baby from the Metro gel; however feel free to ask your Gynae to explain the risks vs. benefits of anything that is prescribed for you, and don’t take any medication not prescribed by a Dr.

If you are ever unsure about something that your Dr is recommending, you should feel free to ask questions and always feel free to go for a second opinion if necessary. It is possible to give general advice with a little information, but to make a specific diagnosis, the Dr would need to speak to and examine you.

Good luck with the rest of your pregnancy.

Regards

Dr Gabriell Prinsloo