Pregnant Women, Be Prudent this Diwali!

Diwali the festival of lights is time for joy and excitement for the people of our country. We often wait the entire year for Diwali Shopping and all the festivities to begin as Indian system signifies rich culture and heritage. This festival is celebrated with great enthusiasm, pop and show but definitely not for the women who are expecting.

The rising pollution levels in the environment are a threat to the pregnant women as it can lead to development problems of limbs and even brain. Excessive complications can happen due to degradation of environment and can also result even in miscarriages. The excessive smoke in the air can provoke the health of the mother, as a pregnant woman is very vulnerable and exposed to numerous threats. Therefore, it is very essential to address this issue.

1. The excessive smoke and pollution from the firecrackers can prove to be very unsafe and detrimental for the mother and the baby. The smoke and pollution emitted from the fire crackers as it directly targets and impacts the respiratory system which also it can affects the unborn baby as well. The fumes emitted by fire crackers are often noxious with a high carbon dioxide and nitrous oxide content. It is very important that all the prospective mothers stay at home during Diwali so as to avoid all such problems and also to prioritise her and the baby’s safety.

2. As the Diwali approaches, there is a lot of commotion in the house and markets while prepping up for the festival. During this hustle bustle, one should ensure that the prospective doesn’t compromises with health. Expecting mothers should eat healthy snack at regular intervals. Since Diwali is the festival when most people eat plenty of sweets and fried snacks, pregnant women should try and keep their sweet intake to a minimal.

3. Loud noises and clamours is something that pregnant women should always stay away as the eardrums are more sensitive during pregnancy. These can often be very disturbing and distressing for the health of the mother and the baby.

4. The traditional and heavy dresses can also be very uncomfortable and annoying. It is better for the mother to wear light yet comfortable clothes. Wearing heavy dresses can restrict their movement and can cause them uneasiness which is something highly restricted. Also avoid wearing fabrics that shall easily catch fire. Easy and breezy fabrics to the rescue.

5. Amidst the festivities, just ensure that you have a first-aid kit and a list of emergency numbers, handy for just in case you have labour pain or emergency, you can easily reach out to the doctor for help.

6. This Diwali for the sake of your own health and your baby’s health, go for an eco-friendly Diwali. Make colourful and beautiful rangoli’s and enjoy the festivities.

In conversation with Dr. Rita Bakshi, Senior Gynaecologist and IVF Expert, International Fertility Centre

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