Planning for a baby is one of the most important times in a couple’s life, but for many it can be confusing and complicated. Here we dispel some of the common fertility myths with justified facts  below. Myth: Having sex every day increases our chances of fertilization  Couples trying to conceive are advised to have regular intercourse to increase their chances of conceiving, but having intercourse every day is likely to exhaust you, especially since it takes many couples 6-12 months to conceive. However, because sperm can survive up to 5 days after release and ovulation prediction is an inaccurate science, most general practitioners advise having intercourse every 2-3 days to maximize the chances of sperm fertilizing an egg after ovulation be able. Myth: You can’t get pregnant while you’re on your periods While women cannot get pregnant during menstruation because the hormones that lead to menstruation are the opposite of those required for pregnancy, they can get pregnant through sex during menstruation because of early ovulation and sperm production can survive up to 5 days after release. Research in the US1 has shown that women can be fertile as early as day four of their cycle (day one is considered the first day of bleeding), so pregnancy can occur at any point in a cycle. Myth: You can only get pregnant on the day you ovulate Not true. The human egg is fertile for about a day after it is released from the ovaries. However, since sperm can survive up to 5 days after intercourse and women can produce more than 1 egg in 24 hours, technically a woman can get pregnant up to 5 days before or even up to 2 days after ovulation, i.e. for one week of each menstrual cycle. Myth: A normal menstrual cycle lasts 28 days That’s not true, that’s a myth perpetuated by the pill making all menstrual cycles regular and 28 days long. In fact, menstrual cycles can vary between 24 and 36 days, and not only vary between women, they vary significantly month-to-month for each individual woman. Myth: Lying down with your legs up after sex increases your chances of getting pregnant Although there is no scientific evidence to support this approach, some people claim it helps and since it is completely harmless it must be worth trying. Myth: Eating oysters increases my fertility There is a grain of truth in this, as oysters are a rich source of zinc, low levels of which can affect fertility. Take stock of your diet and make sure you’re eating plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains rich in antioxidants, and fatty fish (e.g. salmon, herring, sardines, etc.) twice a week. Cut down on caffeine and Alcohol, both of which can hinder conception if taken in excess. Don’t forget to stay active and if you’re a smoker, quit. Myth: You can get everything you need through diet and don’t need to take supplements This is definitely not true, and in fact, all women are advised to take a daily supplement of 400mcg of folic acid during attempts to conceive and for the first 3 months of pregnancy. Taking a folic acid supplement is important for the development of the baby’s neural tube. Since most of us fail to always have the perfect diet, taking a dietary supplement designed specifically for conception or pregnancy can help ensure adequate levels of all the vitamins and minerals essential for conception.

If you’ve got a choosy eater with autism, understand that you’re now no longer alone. A current evaluation of medical research observed that youngsters with autism are 5 instances much more likely to have mealtime demanding situations inclusive of extraordinarily slim meal selections, ritualistic consuming behaviours (e.g. no ingredients can touch) and meal-associated tantrums. Researchers are nonetheless looking to absolutely recognize the autism-choosy consuming connection. And Autism Speaks is presently investing in studies undertaking targeted at increasing meal alternatives by addressing underlying anxiety, inflexibility and sensory issues. Rule Out Medical Problems If your infant is clamping her lips close while presented sure meals, it can be that she is aware of it’ll make her belly hurt. Gastrointestinal misery is not unusual to place amongst youngsters with autism, a lot of whom can’t without difficulty describe their misery. Your infant’s physician let your parent out if that is the case and the way to address it. Stay Calm Many youngsters want to flavour meals greater than a dozen instances earlier than they’re inclined to consume them without a fuss. Children with autism-associated sensitivities can take longer. Be an affected person as your infant explores and samples new ingredients. If your infant maintains to reject meals even after a dozen-plus tries, possibly he simply doesn’t like them. Consider attempting an exclusive meal. Above all, don’t permit mealtime to emerge as your own circle of relatives' battleground. Instead, get innovative. Take Steps Toward Tasting Many people with autism are afraid to strive for new things. Help your infant discover brand-new meals by searching at them, touching them and smelling them. When he’s prepared for a flavour, he can strive to give the meal “a kiss” or lick it earlier than setting an entire chew into his mouth. Sometimes, blending a brand-new meal with a favourite will help. Tune into Textures Autism frequently comes with a hypersensitive reaction to textures. So don’t forget that it can be how a meal feels inside the mouth, in place of its flavour, that produces a meal aversion. The squishiness of a clean tomato is a traditional example. Try reducing or mixing such ingredients to ease out the offending texture. That tomato, for example, may be chopped into salsa or mixed and cooked into pasta sauce. Play with New Food That’s right. Playing with brand-new meals is every other manner to construct familiarity and reduce mealtime anxiety. Together, strive to portray pasta sauce. Use vegetables to make faces on pizza. Use cookie cutters to reduce sandwiches into laugh shapes. While you’re playing, permit your infant to see your flavour — and revel in — the meals. Offer Choices and Control Your cherished one with autism might also additionally want to experience a few manage over what she places into her mouth. It’s additionally ok to really now no longer like a few ingredients. So attempt to provide a wide range and permit alternatives in the classes you care about. For example, you would possibly determine that your infant desires to have one serving of veggies and certainly considered one among protein for dinner. So positioned 5 sorts of those ingredients at the desk and permit your infant to select as a minimum one vegetable and one protein. Along the equal lines, if you’re making a fave dish inclusive of pasta, ask your infant to feature one thriller component for different own circles of relatives individuals to find out at some point of the meal. She receives to select: corn, broccoli or chicken.  Be Careful with Rewards In the long run, it’s critical to praise and supports your infant’s flexibility with meals and willingness to attempt new ingredients. But blatant bribes can backfire. Your infant might also additionally consume the meals, however, won’t discover ways to revel in it or recognize why it’s critical to consume a well-rounded diet — and that’s the goal. Let dessert and treats be a part of food and snacks, however, don’t use them as carrots to get your infant to consume … carrots. Make a dish together Children with autism keep away from sure ingredients or complete meal corporations due to their sensitivity to sedation, flavour, and textures. A notable manner to get your infant outdoors in the container is to make a dish together. Show your infant a listing of food. Allow them to choose out the components and help with getting ready. Make it thrilling by smelling and tasting it together. Even in the event that they do now no longer consume the meal, it’s a brilliant manner to introduce them to something new. Keep mealtime simple Mealtime may be disturbing for a kid with autism. A busy kitchen, loud noises, and brilliant lighting fixtures are all triggers that make dinner an assignment for each dad and mom and youngsters. Get an ordinary one and stick with it. If your infant prefers to take a seat down at the front of the desk, permit them. If your infant enjoys dim lighting fixtures or a particular setting, offer it to them. If they prefer dinner at six in the evening, then do your first-rate to make it appear daily. Play together along with your meals Get innovative and feature a few a laugh! Make faces on pizzas or pancakes with the usage of exclusive toppings. Paint with coloured sauces. Add exclusive components and wager what caseation it’ll flip to or what shape it’ll take. Mealtime mustn’t be boring. Children might be greater open to attempting something new if they could have an amazing time.

Dr. Smrithi D Nayak, Consultant - Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Aster RV Hospital, Bangalore Extreme cold weather poses unique challenges for pregnant women, as their bodies undergo physiological changes that affect immunity, circulation, and temperature regulation. Proper care during winter is essential to safeguard both maternal and fetal health. How can cold weather harm in Pregnancy?During pregnancy, the immune system is naturally altered, making women more susceptible to infections such as colds, flu, and respiratory illnesses. Cold temperatures can also cause blood vessels to constrict, reducing circulation and increasing discomfort, joint stiffness, and fatigue. Additionally, dehydration can contribute to complications like urinary infections and preterm contractions. Cold weather can affect pregnant women by increasing the risk of the following complications:1. Preterm Birth Cold weather stress can decrease blood flow and oxygen to the baby, increasing the risk of early delivery.2. Low Birth Weight (Especially in the Second & Third Trimesters)Exposure to extreme cold during pregnancy can lower nutrient delivery and may limit fetal growth.3. Respiratory Infections (Cold, Flu)There are risks of respiratory infections, such as colds and the flu, due to suppressed immune systems and extra pressure on the heart and lungs during pregnancy. 4. Dehydration During winter, cold, dry air and reduced thirst can lead to inadequate fluid intake. This can increase risks like preterm labour, constipation, UTIs, and decreased amniotic fluid.5. Dry, Itchy SkinPregnancy hormones, along with the cold, dry air, lead to dry skin and itching.6. Deficiency of Vitamin DLess sunlight in winter means lower levels of vitamin D (important for a baby's bone health) in the body. Your body requires sun exposure to synthesise most of its vitamin D. Tips and PrecautionsHere are some tips for a safe pregnancy during winter:Maintain Optimal Body WarmthLayered clothing helps your body to trap heat and safeguard against sudden cold exposure. This prevents heat loss and keeps you comfortable indoors and outdoors.Have a Nutritious, Warm DietA balanced diet rich in proteins, iron, calcium, and vitamins is crucial during winter. Warm, freshly cooked meals such as soups, stews, porridge, and herbal teas support digestion and immunity. Seasonal fruits, vegetables, nuts, and seeds provide antioxidants that help fight infections. Exercise and RestEngage in gentle indoor exercises or safe outdoor activities with warm clothing. This helps better circulation and overall health with no exposure to extreme cold. Rest and quality sleep are equally important, as cold weather can increase fatigue and muscle aches.Skincare and HydrationCold air can dry out the skin, leading to itching and discomfort. Regular use of moisturisers and maintaining hydration helps preserve skin elasticity and comfort. Drink enough warm water, milk, or soup to prevent dehydration.Regular Check-upsRoutine prenatal visits should not be skipped due to weather conditions. Monitoring blood pressure, weight, fetal growth, and overall health is vital throughout pregnancy. Your body adapts to changes and weather during pregnancy. However, it has limits. Therefore, you need to take proper care and support your body's functions with healthy winter habits and professional guidance. This will ensure both your and your baby's well-being throughout pregnancy, especially in challenging conditions like winter.       TRANSLATE with x English Arabic Hebrew Polish Bulgarian Hindi Portuguese Catalan Hmong Daw Romanian Chinese Simplified Hungarian Russian Chinese Traditional Indonesian Slovak Czech Italian Slovenian Danish Japanese Spanish Dutch Klingon Swedish English Korean Thai Estonian Latvian Turkish Finnish Lithuanian Ukrainian French Malay Urdu German Maltese Vietnamese Greek Norwegian Welsh Haitian Creole Persian     TRANSLATE with COPY THE URL BELOW Back EMBED THE SNIPPET BELOW IN YOUR SITE Enable collaborative features and customize widget: Bing Webmaster Portal Back

Dr. Suchismitha Rajamanya, Lead Consultant & HOD - Internal Medicine, Aster Whitefield Hospital With rising temperatures across cities like Bengaluru, many people are spending long hours working in hot environments — whether outdoors or in poorly ventilated indoor spaces. Excessive heat is not just uncomfortable; it can affect both physical and mental health. The good news is that with awareness and simple measures, these risks can be reduced.  Why workplace heat is a concern  When the body is exposed to high temperatures for long periods, it struggles to maintain a normal internal temperature. This can lead to dehydration, fatigue, and reduced concentration. In more serious situations, prolonged exposure can result in conditions like heat exhaustion and heatstroke, which require immediate attention.  Effects on physical health  Excessive heat can have a direct impact on the body. Continuous sweating leads to loss of fluids and salts, causing dehydration, muscle cramps, and weakness. Many workers may also experience headaches, dizziness, and low energy levels, which can affect their ability to perform daily tasks. If exposure continues without proper hydration or rest, the risk of heatstroke increases significantly.  Effects on mental health  Heat does not only affect the body; it also affects the mind. Working in hot conditions can make it difficult to concentrate and stay alert. People may feel more irritable, stressed, and mentally tired. Decision-making and focus may reduce, especially during long working hours, which can increase the chances of errors or accidents.  The “push through the heat” mindset  Many workers tend to ignore early signs of discomfort and continue working despite feeling tired or unwell. This “push through” attitude can be risky, as symptoms like dehydration and fatigue are often early warnings. Ignoring these signs can quickly lead to more serious conditions such as heatstroke.  What happens when heat exposure is ignored  If heat exposure is not managed, mild symptoms can worsen over time. Dehydration can become severe, leading to confusion, weakness, and even collapse. In extreme cases, untreated heat-related illness can affect vital organs and require emergency medical care.  The importance of preventive care  Preventing heat-related problems in the workplace is both simple and important. Taking regular breaks, staying hydrated, and avoiding peak heat hours can help the body cope better. Employers also have a role in ensuring safe working conditions, such as proper ventilation and access to drinking water.  Simple ways to stay safe at work  Drink water regularly throughout the day, even if you do not feel thirsty. Try to take short breaks in shaded or cooler areas to allow the body to recover. Wearing light, loose, and breathable clothing can also help reduce heat stress. For those working outdoors, avoiding heavy tasks during the hottest part of the day can make a big difference.  When to seek medical help  It is important to recognise warning signs such as high body temperature, dizziness, confusion, nausea, or extreme weakness. These may indicate serious heat-related conditions like heatstroke and require immediate medical attention.  Why awareness matters  Excessive heat in the workplace is a growing concern, especially during summer. It affects not just comfort, but also health, safety, and productivity. The key message is simple — understanding the risks and taking small preventive steps can protect both physical and mental health at work.