Overcoming Breastfeeding Challenges

Breastfeeding is a beautiful and natural way for mothers to nourish their babies, fostering a unique bond between them. However, this journey isn’t always smooth sailing. Many new moms encounter challenges that can make breastfeeding seem daunting and frustrating. A survey conducted in India in 2022 revealed that breastfeeding presents major challenges for over 83% Indian mothers. Most new moms either solicited advice from family or friends (66%) or from online videos (33%) while only 7% consulted a trained lactation expert for advice or support.

Breastfeeding is the healthiest and best way to feed your baby, however it doesn’t always come naturally to everyone. There are many problems related to breastfeeding that end in an early cessation of breastfeeding. That is why it is of great importance to seek timely medical advice in the initial nursing stage if you are struggling.

Breastfeeding is not only a healthy way to supplement your baby’s nutrition, but it can also lower the risk of some short- and long-term health problems. It contains precious antibodies that fight various diseases and infections. Additionally, it also fosters a strong bond between the mother and child, promoting brain development and emotional resiliency.

Breastfeeding Challenges and How to Deal with Them

Alongside the lack of sleep and exhaustion of having a new baby, breastfeeding has its own set of challenges. Let us explore some common challenges of breastfeeding and discuss strategies to overcome them, empowering mothers to experience the joys of successful breastfeeding.

• Latching Difficulties
  One of the most common challenges new mothers face is achieving a proper latch. A poor latch can lead to sore nipples, inadequate milk transfer, and a frustrated baby. It’s crucial to ensure that the baby latches onto the breast effectively to stimulate milk production and avoid discomfort. If required, consult a lactation consultant for further assistance.
• Low Milk Supply
  Many mothers worry about having a low milk supply, which can be caused by various factors, such as stress, inadequate breastfeeding frequency, or medical issues. Building and maintaining a sufficient milk supply requires commitment and persistence. Techniques like frequent nursing, skin-to-skin contact, health supplements and pumping can help stimulate milk production.
• Blocked Milk Duct
  Clogged milk ducts feel sore and painful. If the breasts are not fully drained out, they become hard, tender with a swelling in one area of the breast. You can treat it with a warm compress, gentle massage, frequent nursing, and soaking the nipples with a saline solution.
• Engorgement and Mastitis
  Breast engorgement, a condition where breasts become painfully swollen with milk, and mastitis, an infection that causes redness and tenderness in the breast, are common challenges faced by breastfeeding moms. Engorgement can often be managed by frequent feeding and expressing milk. Mastitis requires prompt medical attention, including antibiotics, and rest.
• Nipple Pain and Soreness
  Nipple pain is another common complaint among breastfeeding mothers. In most cases, this discomfort is temporary and related to improper latching. Applying lanolin cream or breast milk to sore nipples can help alleviate the pain. Using different breastfeeding positions and seeking guidance from a lactation consultant can also make a significant difference in reducing nipple soreness.

Breastfeeding Support at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai

Breastfeeding is an invaluable experience that fosters a deep connection between a mother and her child. It is a rewarding experience, so don’t let any challenges discourage you from continuing to nurse your baby. While it may come with its challenges, overcoming them is possible with determination, patience, and support. Remember, each breastfeeding journey is unique, and seeking help from lactation consultants, support groups, and experienced mothers can make all the difference in making this experience a rewarding and fulfilling one. Meet highly experienced lactation consultants at our Centre for Mother & Child for guidance online and offline. Please find below link for further information: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/centresofexcellence/centrefor_motherchild.html

As the weather changes and the humid and windy monsoon season sets in, the risk of catching a cold or flu increases. Body aches, fever, chills and nasal congestion can make you feel miserable and affect your daily lives. You body’s immunity is at its lowest during the rainy season making you even more susceptible to seasonal viral infections.

The best way to prevent seasonal flu and its potentially dangerous complications is to get vaccinated every year, but good health habits like avoiding sick people, covering your cough, and washing your hands frequently can also help stop the spread of germs and avert respiratory illnesses like the flu. If you have already been infected by cold or flu it will take some time to heal. However, some home remedies can help ease your symptoms and slightly reduce the length of time you are sick.

Health tips to combat Cold and Flu

Here are some helpful tips to follow:

• Drink lots of fluids
  Drinking enough fluids can thin your mucus and make it easier for you to drain it from your nose and sinuses. Fluids also help to keep the mucous membranes lubricated, which help soothe the nasal congestion.
• Wash your hands frequently
  One of the simplest yet most effective ways to prevent the spread of cold and flu viruses is by washing your hands frequently. Make it a habit to use soap and water for at least 20 seconds, especially after coughing, sneezing, or touching surfaces that may be contaminated.
• Take enough rest
  Your body needs to sleep in order to rest and recover. According to research, your body produces cytokines while you’re sleeping, which are vital for battling inflammation and infection. Rest as much as possible to help your body fight cold and flu viruses.
• Use saline nasal drops and sprays
  Non-medicated nasal saline sprays can help to relieve congestion from a cold and ease your breathing. A saline nasal spray helps to keep nasal passages moist by washing out any thick or dried mucus.
• Add moisture to the air
  Use a humidifier in your bedroom to add moisture back into the air while you sleep. Dry air is known to cause irritation inside nose and throat.
• Take steam
  The next time you have a cold that gives you a stuffy nose, try taking a steam inhalation. This will help make the mucus thinner and make it drain easily.
• Practice respiratory hygiene 
  Cold and flu viruses are primarily transmitted through respiratory droplets when an infected person coughs or sneezes. To protect yourself and others, cover your mouth and nose with a tissue or your elbow when coughing or sneezing.
• Adjust your sleeping position
  When you go to bed, try propping your head up with pillows to help gravity work better for you and help you sleep better. Do sleep at a sloped angle which allows the fluid in your sinuses to keep flowing and avoids congestion.
• Drink warm liquids
  It is best to include warm herbal teas and kadhas to help relieve cold, cough and sore-throat symptoms and soothe the inflamed membranes that line your nose and throat. 
• Eat foods that support your immune system
  A strong immune system plays a crucial role in defending your body against infections. Incorporate immunity-boosting foods like foods rich in vitamin C, herbs and spices into your meals.  Examples of foods that have vitamin C include fruits like lemons, mangoes, oranges, strawberries, red peppers, broccoli, and other fruits and vegetables.

Remember to wash your hands regularly, practice respiratory hygiene, boost your immune system, stay hydrated and maintain a healthy environment to help heal at the earliest from your seasonal infection. However if the symptoms don’t improve or you have trouble breathing, rapid heartbeat, faintness, or any severe symptoms, reach out to doctors at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital at the earliest. Please find below our website details: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com

In recent years, the field of surgical robotics has revolutionized the way doctors approach complex procedures, ushering in a new era of precision and innovation. With the advent of robotic surgery, medical experts have gained the ability to perform intricate surgeries with unparalleled accuracy while minimizing the invasiveness of the procedure. Robotic-assisted surgery is the most advanced form of a laparoscopic surgery. Through the utilization of computer-controlled and self-powered robots, surgeons are able to perform robotic surgery in many medical cases reducing the need of a traditional open surgery.

How is a Robotic Surgery performed?

Robotic Surgery involves the utilization of the cutting-edge da Vinci surgical system, which amalgamates machinery, computers, and electronics to deliver unparalleled surgical precision. It offers surgeons an intuitive tool for controlling surgical instruments. The surgeon works from the computer console in the operating room and has control over a number of precisely guided robotic arms that hold and move tiny devices required to make tiny incisions in the patient. The surgeon can see a magnified picture of the operating site through a small video camera that is mounted to a robotic arm. Through the computer console, the surgeon’s finger, hand, and wrist movements are seamlessly transmitted to the robotic arms, which are equipped with surgical instruments. This advanced communication system enables the precise execution of surgical maneuvers. With the ability to rotate a full 360 degrees, the robotic arms offer exceptional control, surpassing the level of precision achievable in standard laparoscopic surgeries. A team of dedicated surgeons continuously supervises the robot throughout the surgery. In addition to its surgical arms, the da Vinci unit features an imaging device and a console, where your doctor can view the surgical site on a special video screen and control the robotic arms.

Advantages of Robotic Surgery

Robotic surgery provides substantial benefits to both the patient and the surgeon. Here are some key advantages of a robotic surgery to note:

Benefits of robotic surgery for patients include:

• Reduced risk of infection due to smaller incisions
• Minimal scarring
• Reduced discomfort and pain
• Shorter hospitalization
• Reduced blood loss and transfusions
• Faster recovery time and return to routine activities

Benefits of robotic surgery for surgeons include:

• Greater surgical precision
• Increased proficiency
• Greater visualization
• Increased range of motion
• Easy access to hard-to-reach areas

Is Robotic Surgery right for you?

Robotic surgery isn’t an option for everyone. It is essential to talk to your doctor to understand the various benefits and risks of robotic surgery for your medical case and know how it compares with other options such as minimally invasive surgery(MIS) and conventional open surgery.

Robotic Surgery at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai

With the da Vinci Surgical System (Robot), surgeons are now able to offer a minimally-invasive option for complex surgical procedures as well. Robotic surgery, computer-assisted surgery, and robotically-assisted surgery are all terms used to describe the technological advancements that employ robotic systems to aid in surgical procedures. The primary objective behind the development of robotic surgery was to overcome the limitations of MIS and enhance the proficiency of surgeons performing open surgeries. Here are some common medical procedures performed using the da Vinci Surgical System:

• Uro-Oncology Procedures
• Urology Procedures
• Gynaecological and Gynaec-Oncological Procedures
• Head and Neck/ENT Procedures
• General Surgical/Thoracic Procedures
• Cardiac Surgeries
• Bariatrics (Obesity Surgery)

Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai started the Centre for Robotic Surgery in 2012 and within short span it completed more than 1800 surgeries. Till date over 3545 robotic surgeries have been successfully completed by the team. Please find below website link for further details: https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/centresofexcellence/centrefor_roboticsurgery.html

In today’s fast-paced modern world, finding inner peace and achieving optimal health can seem like a daunting task. However, one ancient practice continues to captivate millions with its transformative potential – yoga. Originating in ancient India, yoga has evolved into a widely embraced discipline that combines physical postures, breath control, and meditation. It combines spirituality with physical and mental exercises that help ground you. In recent years, yoga has gained popularity across the globe.

Health Benefits of Yoga

Maintaining a regular yoga practice has immense physical and mental health benefits. These include:

• Enhances your Flexibility and Strength
  One of the most noticeable effects of regular yoga practice is improved flexibility and strength. Through a series of asanas (postures) and gentle stretching exercises, yoga gradually increases the range of motion in your joints. This increased flexibility reduces the risk of injuries, tones your body and improves your posture.
• Keeps your Joints healthy
  Yoga will strengthen the muscles around the joints, helping to stabilise them. Yoga can support greater joint health by allowing the joints to move through their complete range of motion. Bones can move smoothly and healthily as a result of improved synovial fluid flow in the joints as a result of joint mobilisation.
• Stress Reduction and Relaxation
  Yoga provides a sanctuary where individuals can escape the pressures of daily life. By incorporating relaxation techniques such as deep breathing and meditation, yoga triggers the body’s relaxation response, lowering cortisol levels and promoting a state of tranquility.
• Helps with Weight Management
  While yoga may not be as intense as high-impact workouts, it is a fantastic tool for improving physical fitness. Many styles of yoga such as power yoga incorporate dynamic movements that raise the heart rate and increase cardiovascular endurance.
• Improves Cardiovascular health
  The isometric nature of asanas necessitates holding muscle tension for a short period of time to a few minutes. This enhances circulation and cardiovascular health. According to studies, regular yoga practise may help keep blood pressure in check.
• Improving Balance and Coordination
  The practice of yoga requires maintaining balance and coordination through various poses. This helps strengthen core muscles and enhanced proprioception, leading to improved stability and coordination. This increased balance not only benefits physical activities but also helps prevent falls and injuries, especially in older adults.
• Yoga lowers your Blood pressure
  High blood pressure is a significant medical condition that raises your chances of having a heart attack and having a stroke. Several yoga asanas are known to lower blood pressure in addition to managing your stress levels.
• Improves Brain health
  Improved blood circulation, easing of muscle tension and the act of focusing the mind on the breath all combine to help calm the nervous system. Long-term benefits include reduced stress, anxiety and fatigue, better concentration and energy levels, and increased feelings of calm and wellbeing.
• Enhancing Respiratory Function
  Yoga emphasizes the importance of conscious breathing, known as pranayama. By focusing on deep, controlled breaths, yoga enhances lung capacity and improves respiratory function.
• Boosting Immune Function
  Regular yoga practice can have a positive impact on the immune system. The physical movements and meditation are known to regulate the body’s response to stress, inflammation, and illness and stimulates the lymphatic circulation.

Yoga is a simple form of fitness which can be practiced regardless of your age or fitness level. Beginners must start yoga under the guidance of a teacher. Remember, a correctly done yoga pose should never cause pain. If you experience pain or discomfort, you must stop your asana. Always consult your doctor before starting yoga especially if you are pregnant, have had a recent injury, illness, surgery, high blood pressure, heart problems, or osteoporosis, etc. Yoga is a holistic practice that nourishes both the body and mind, offering countless health benefits. Start a new journey this International Day of Yoga, roll out your mat, take a deep breath, and embrace yoga.

56% of Indian families report digestive health problems. The gut – apart of the digestive system plays a very important role in digestion and breaking down the food you eat. Maintaining a healthy gut is essential for your overall well-being, as it plays a crucial role in your digestion, immune system, and even mental health. While the gut is home to trillions of microorganisms, maintaining a balance of beneficial bacteria is the key. A healthy gut simply means that there are more good bacteria than harmful bacteria. An increasing number of people consume high amounts of junk or processed or packaged food every week leading to several digestive problems.  A recent survey suggests that approximately 7 out of every 10 people in urban India experience digestive or gut health issues.

Important functions of your Gut

One of the primary functions of the gut is to break down food and extract essential nutrients. A healthy gut with a diverse community of beneficial bacteria ensures efficient digestion and optimal nutrient absorption. This enables your bodies to obtain the necessary vitamins, minerals, and energy required for proper functioning and growth. The key functions of your gut include:

• Enhancing your immunity
  Research suggests that approximately 70% of your immune system resides in the gut. The gut acts as a barrier against harmful pathogens and toxins, preventing their entry into the bloodstream. A balanced gut microbiome enhances the immune response, helps control inflammation, and protects one against infections.
• Boosts mental health
  The gut microbiota produces neurotransmitters, such as serotonin and dopamine, which play a crucial role in regulating mood and emotions. A healthy gut is known to contribute to better mental health and cognitive function and reduces the risk of mental health conditions such as anxiety disorders, depression, and even neurodegenerative disorders.
• Aids weight management
  Imbalances in gut bacteria have been associated with obesity, insulin resistance, and metabolic syndrome. A diverse and balanced gut microbiome supports efficient metabolism, regulates appetite, and helps prevent weight gain and chronic metabolic disorders.
• Disease prevention
  Research suggests that an unhealthy gut may contribute to the development of various diseases, including inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), allergies, and certain cancers. By prioritizing gut health, one can considerably reduce the risk of these conditions.

Healthy tips to improve your Gut Health

Your daily food habits, your fitness routine and the lifestyle you live have a direct impact on your digestive health. Taking steps to improve your digestive health can help your digestive system function more efficiently and improve your gut health. These include:

• Eat a fiber-rich diet
• Stay hydrated
• Aim for a protein portion in every meal
• Consider supplementation
• Minimize antibiotic use
• Avoid processed foods
• Up your intake of probiotics & prebiotics
• Exercise regularly
• Quit bad habits
• Reduce stress in your life

Digestive care at Kokilaben Dhirubhai Ambani Hospital, Mumbai

Optimizing gut health is a long-term commitment that requires a balanced approach to diet, lifestyle, and stress management. By understanding the significance of gut health and adopting practices that promote a balanced gut microbiome, you can improve your well-being reduce the risk of chronic diseases. Prioritizing gut health is a step towards a healthier and happier life. Consult highly trained and experienced nutritionists at our Department of Clinical Nutrition Therapy for personalized guidance to help improve your gut health. If you are suffering from any irregularities in your digestive health, reach out to experts at our Department to Gastroenterology for further guidance. Please find below the website links for further details:

https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/nutritiontherapy.html

https://www.kokilabenhospital.com/departments/clinicaldepartments/gastroenterology-hepatology.html