Hariom Homoeopathic Clinic Haldwani - We treat all types of curable diseases

Hoarse Voice Healed In Seconds

2017-07-30T00:28:00.000-07:00

Few minutes back, as a patient visited my clinic, my receptionist called to inform me and she was whispering. Later, I called her to inquire about her throat. After eating a cold fruit, taken out directly from the refrigerator, she developed cough and afterwards voice was lost. All this she told me in whispers. I ensured her that she will go home with a perfectly normal voice.

Then I gave her a single drop of the homoeopathic medicine selected for her and after that while she was telling me about her difficulty in talking, her voice was back, hardly after two sentences uttered by her. She said, 'Oh! It's back!' and we laughed. Thats it. In acute cases when the patient gets the correct homoeopathic medicine, the recovery is quick.

This reminds me of a severe headache which I had some time back. If you take medicines like Dispirin or Crocin etc., it takes not less than half an hour before you get any relief. For my headache, I took a single dose of the indicated homoeopathic medicine and the relief ensued as soon as I took the medicine.

But the difficulty with homoeopathic prescription is that there are about 100 medicines for a single ailment. Only one out of those will be able to cure a particular individual. For example, out of the numerous medicines for headache, only one was suited for my ailment, depending on many other factors including cause and type of headache. This medicine, which we call 'similimum' has to be selected very carefully.

When you get the correct homoeopathic medicine for your ailment, you get quicker and better relief than from any other type of medicine. For this, visit a classical homoeopath in your area (One who practices real homoeopathy) and cooperate while giving the case. Some patients are so used to the prevalent system of medicine that when we want to get into the details of their ailment, they consider the inquiry useless.

Coming back from where we started, I am satisfied that I kept my promise. My receptionist went home with a perfect voice. Greatest satisfaction a physician can have... a cured case.

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Physical Symptoms Associated With Depression

2011-08-10T05:17:00.000-07:00

Patients complaining of vague physical or somatic symptoms may also confess having the diagnostic mental symptoms of depression on inquiry. In such individuals, main cause of the physical ailments is depression. Read on to find the additional symptoms of depression.

Apart from the typical symptoms of depression discussed in previous posts, depressed persons may also have the following complaints:

1. Aching pain in different parts of the body.

2. Indigestion.

3. Constipation.

4. Hollow feeling inside body parts.

5. Nausea

6. Vomiting

7. Giddiness

8. Headache

9. Apprehension and anxiety with dryness of mouth, sweating and palpitation.

More symptoms:

10. Retarded activity. Patient moves and talks slowly, wants to lie quietly in bed.

11. Stupor. Patient does not talk or respond to anything.

12. Restlessness and agitation. Not every depressed individual becomes inactive. Some patients become very restless and can not sit quietly even for a short time. They start talking too much but mostly about sad and depressive things.

13. Panic. He/She may have sudden anxiety with fear of death.

14. Some patients may complain of more sadness in the morning while others may feel worse in the evening.

15. Delusions and hallucinations associated with depression.

Also read:

Depression caused by drugs

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Depression Caused By Drugs

2011-08-08T06:44:00.000-07:00

Use of certain drugs can lead to depression. Such type of depression may not have all the characteristic features of depression which I described in a previous post - 10 Diagnostic Symptoms Of Depression. A relation between the use of drug and appearance of depressive features can be observed in such patients. After withdrawal of the drug, patient gradually starts feeling better.

So, if you have been feeling sad and depressed from some time and you have been using a drug from approximately the same duration, you might be suffering from a drug induced depression. Here are some examples of drugs which may cause depression:

1. Hormonal Preparations

Corticosteroids
Oral Contraceptive Pills

2. Pain Killers

Ibuprofen
Phenacetin

3. Anti-bacterial/Anti-fungal

Metronidazole
Streptomycin
Ampicillin
Cycloserine

4. Drugs used for high blood pressure

Digitalis
Alpha-methyldopa
Reserpine
Propanolol

5. Sedative Drugs

6. Hypnotics

7. Anti-psychotic Drugs

Also read:

Delusions And Hallucinations Found With Depression

10 Diagnostic Symptoms Of Depression
Physical Symptoms Associated With Depression

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Delusions And Hallucinations Found With Depression

2011-08-06T22:02:00.000-07:00

In the last post I described the 10 diagnostic symptoms of depression. Apart from those typical symptoms of depression, some patients also develop psychotic symptoms including various delusions and hallucinations. Common delusions and hallucinations which may be found in depressive patients are described below.

Common Delusions Found In Depressed Individuals

Delusion is a false belief of a person which cannot be corrected by reasoning or arguing with them. Not all, but some patients of depression may develop following types of delusions:

1. Nihilistic Delusions

Those delusions in which a person believes that he himself or the world does not exist or will cease to exist. For example a patient may say that:

'I am dead'
'My head has become empty'
'My liver is rotten'
'World is going to end'

2. Paranoid Delusions

Some depressive patients may develop paranoid delusions. For example patient may have suspicions like:

'Some people are planning to kill me and my family
'Coworkers are plotting against me'

3. Bizarre Delusions

Rarely a patient of depression may develop unusual belief such as:

Aliens have attacked the earth
All men will turn into animals

Hallucinations Associated With Depression

Patients of very severe depression may develop hallucinations i.e. false perception without any external stimulus. Patient hears sound or sees things which are not actually present. Hallucinations of depressed persons are usually depressive in nature. For example:

Hear voices that condemn him for his sins
Hear voices predicting a mis-happening
Perceive smell of burning flesh or other type of bad odor which is not present

Also read:

10 Diagnostic Symptoms Of Depression

Depression Caused By Drugs
Physical Symptoms Associated With depression

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10 Diagnostic Symptoms Of Depression

2011-08-04T06:24:00.000-07:00

Incidences of suicide committed by students and teenagers are on a rise and it's high time now that parents start getting concerned about the mental health of their children as much as they are concerned about their child's studies and career. If depression in identified and treated in early stages, many precious lives can be saved. Read on to find the symptoms of depression.

Typical Symptoms of Depression

Though most of the time features of depression develop gradually; however, in case of sudden grief such as due to loss of a loved one or failures, depressive symptoms may appear in a short time. Typical symptoms presented by a patient of depression are:

1. Persistent sad mood

Patient feels sad most of the time, almost daily. He or she may have a frequent desire to weep and sometimes may start crying uncontrollably.

2. Loss of interest in activities which he enjoyed before

Patient is unable to enjoy or feel pleasure in anything including the activities which he liked before. Even happy events like parties or good news does not make him feel like smiling. Nothing seems pleasurable to him.

3. Easily tired and less active

There is a feeling of lack of energy. Even normal activities of the day like bathing and eating make him feel tired and he wants to postpone them.

4. Inability to concentrate and forgetfulness

A student is not able to concentrate on his studies. He or she becomes forgetful. For example he may forget to pick the articles from the shop after purchasing them or may often forget where he kept his bike's key.

5. Reduced confidence in self and lowered self-esteem

Patient loses all confidence in him and feels that he won't be able to achieve anything in life. He may start to doubt his ability to succeed in exams or interview.

6. Feeling of guilt

A depressed individual may start blaming himself for all the problems he or his family members are facing. Feels he is of no value and is a burden to others. Some may also attribute their grievances to the sins they committed in the past lives.

7. Hopeless regarding future

Patient tends to think negative and becomes hopeless regarding future. He has a fear of failure and does not want to start anything new because of that.

8. Suicidal thoughts

Patient finds life not worth living. He starts thinking about ending his life. Thinks about various ways in which he could end his life.

9. Disturbed sleep

Patient may have a difficulty in getting to sleep or may wake up in the middle of night or early in the morning. Some may also have increased sleepiness.

10. Loss of appetite and weight

Most of the patients have reduced appetite and lose weight gradually. However, some may have an increased appetite.

A patient of depression may not have all the symptoms mentioned above but the first three symptoms and few other symptoms are present.

Also read:

Delusions And Hallucinations Found With Depression

10 Benefits Of Combined Oral Contraceptive Pills

2011-08-03T05:26:00.000-07:00

Having discussed the various side effects and contraindications of the combined oral contraceptive pills in previous posts, it's time now to say some nice things about combined pills. Read on to know the benefits of the combined oral pills. Details regarding the component, mode of action and dosage of combined oral pills as well as the caution required while using them is discussed in the previous post, Types of oral contraceptive pills-A comparison.

Benefits Of Combined Oral Pills

1. One of the most effective method of birth control. Failure rate of only 0.1% which is lowest among the contraceptives in use today.

2. With the use of combined pills the menstruation occurs at regular intervals.

3. Bleeding during menstrual periods becomes scanty, thus it is useful for the women having profuse flow during periods.

4. Prevents anemia by reducing the amount of blood flow during menses.

5. Reduced risk of ovarian cancer

6. Reduced risk of endometrial cancer/uterine cancer (endometrium is the inner lining of the uterus or womb)

7. Since the progestogen component of the pill makes the cervical mucus thick and somewhat impermeable to the infective organisms, thus the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is reduced. (But not as much as with the use of condom or other barrier methods)

8. Reduced risk of ectopic pregnancy due to suppression of ovulation and lowered chances of PID i.e. pelvic inflammatory disease.

9. Use of combined pills is also said to have a protective action against rheumatoid arthritis.

10. It also reduces the incidence of benign breast diseases.

Read the previous posts:

1. 12 Contraindications To The Use Of Oral Contraceptive Pills

2. 12 Side Effects Of Oral Contraceptive Pills

3. 10 Indications To Stop The Use Of Oral Pills

4. Types Of Oral Contraceptive Pills - A Comparison

Minipill - Benefits Drawbacks and Contraindications

2011-08-02T06:19:00.000-07:00

This is in continuation with the previous post - Types Of Oral Contraceptive Pills - A comparison in which we learnt about the three different types of oral pills namely monophasic combined pills, triphasic combined pills and the progestogen only pill or minipill. Let's see what the advantages of minipill over combined pills are, its drawbacks and contraindications.

Advantages of Minipill/POP

1. Since it does not contain the hormone oestrogen therefore the side effects related to oestrogen hormone are not present. Therefore it can be used by the women in whom combined pills are contraindicated. So, it can be used by women having:

High blood pressure
Fibroid
Diabetes
Epilepsy
Smoking
History of thromboembolism (clot formation in a blood vessel)

2. It can be given to the lactating women since it does not suppress milk production. Hence the name given 'Lactation Pill'

Disadvantages of Minipill/POP

Some drawbacks may be associated with the use of Minipill such as:

Irregular bleeding
Amenorrhoea or absence of menstruation
Ectopic pregnancy i.e. when the fertilized ovum in implanted a site other than the uterus.
Headache
Increased weight gain
Failure rate is somewhat higher than combined pills

Contraindications to the use of Minipill

Previous ectopic pregnancy
Ovarian cyst
Breast cancer
Genital cancers
Abnormal bleeding from vagina
Liver disease
Porphyria i.e a metabolic disorder
With the use of certain drugs

Also read:

Types Of Oral Contraceptive Pills - A Comparison

Types Of Oral Contraceptive Pills - A Comparison

2011-08-01T22:44:00.000-07:00

Hormonal contraceptives are used by many women for birth control. A little awareness about the pills and other methods of contraception helps you select the method or type of pill that suits you the best. Prior knowledge of the side effects and contraindications is also necessary. These have been discussed in previous posts. Today we'll see what the different types of oral contraceptive pills are and compare them.

1. Combined Oral Pills (Monophasic)

These contain a mixture of the two female hormones oestrogen and progesogen. All tablets of the pack contain the two hormones in the same amount.

Dose -

Starting from the 5th day of the cycle, tablets are taken for 21 days.
New pack is started after a gap of seven days.
In some brands you will get a pack of 28 tablets instead of 21 tablets.
This is because they include iron tablets i.e. the 7 tablets of different colour in the pack.
This is done in order to make the use of tablets simple for the women.
Tablets are to be taken at a fixed time of the day, preferably after a meal.

Mode Of Action

It suppresses the FSH and LH hormones released from the pituitary gland and consequently prevent ovulation.
Progestogen causes atrophic changes in the inner lining of the womb or uterus and thus prevents implantation.
Progestogen also makes the cervical mucus thick and therefore impermeable to the sperms.

Faliure rate

Faliure rate is only 0.1% which is lowest among all contraceptives in use today.

Caution required

During the first cycle, use of an additional method of birth control is advised since ovulation may not be suppressed by then.
However starting the pill on the first day of the cycle reduces this risk.
If you forget to take a tablet once, then take two tablets on the next day.
If you forget to take the tablet twice or more then you are no longer protected and must use a barrier method like condom for that cycle.

Side effects and contraindications

Read the previous posts:

1. 12 Contraindications To The Use Of Oral Contraceptive Pills

2. 12 Side Effects Of Oral Contraceptive Pills

3. 10 Indications To Stop The Use Of Oral Pills

2. Triphasic Combined Pills

Pills contain a combination of oestrogen and progestogen in three sets of combination ratio.

During first six days 30 micro gram oestrogen (EE2 = ethinyloestradiol) + 50 micro gram progestogen (LNG=levonorgestrel)
Next five days 40 micro gram oestrogen + 75 micro gram progestogen
Last ten days 30 micro gram oestrogen + 125 micro gram progestogen

Dose -

Same as monophasic combined pills

Failure rate -

These are as effective as the monophasic combined pills.

Advantage over monophasic pills

Triphasic pills do not have a bad effect on the carbohydrate and lipid metabolism like monophasic pills and therefore can be used by the diabetic women.

Disadvantage over monophasic pills

While monophasic pills also control the amount of flow during periods and therefore useful in women with menorrhagia i.e. with excessive bleeding during menses, same is not possible with the triphasic pills.

3. Progestogen-Only Pill (POP)/Minipill

These contain only progestogen and no oestrogen.

Dose -

Tablet is taken daily without a break.
Pill should be started within 5 to 7 days of menstruation

Caution required -

Pill should be taken at a fixed time daily +/- three hours.
If you forget to take the pill as mentioned above, use additional method like condom for 48 hours and continue taking the pill as before.
Additional method is also advised in the first 48 hours of the first cycle or pack.

Failure rate -

Failure rate is 2-3% i.e. higher than combined pill.

Advantage over combined pills

Mini pill does not have the side effects related to oestrogen.

I'll discuss more about the advantages, drawbacks and contraindications of minipill in the next post, Minipill - Benefits Drawbacks and Contraindications

Please Note: This post is informative in nature and cannot replace a face to face consultation with your doctor. Therefore, use of any contraceptive with the advice of the gynecologist is recommended.

10 Indications To Stop The Use Of Oral Pills

2011-07-31T07:04:00.000-07:00

If you use oral contraceptive pills as a method of birth control, you should be aware of the side effects of the pills, which have been discussed in a previous post - 12 Side Effects Of Oral Contraceptive Pills. This post provides another important information for the pill users. While using pills you should not ignore certain symptoms which indicate the withdrawal of the pills. Read on to find what are these symptoms.

Symptoms Which Indicate Withdrawal Of Oral Pills

#1- Severe migraine i.e. periodic attacks of one sided headache usually associated with digestive disturbances.

#2- Visual disturbances

#3- Sudden pain in the chest

#4- Severe cramps in the legs

#5- Excessive weight gain

#6- Symptoms of depression such as:

Feeling sad daily
Loss of interest in all activities
Lowered appetite
Sleeplessness or excessive sleepiness
Suicidal thoughts

#7- Six weeks before surgery in order to minimize the chances of vascular complications after the surgery

#8- Planning pregnancy in near future. Use of pills suppresses ovulation and it may take a few months before you'll be able to conceive after the withdrawal of pills. Return of fertility after pills is discussed in the post - Return Of Fertility After Contraceptives - How Long Does It Take?

#9- Use of pills beyond the age of 35 years should be done under regular medical supervision.

#10- Early symptoms of cervical cancer discussed in detail in the post Early Detection Of Cervical Cancer - Identify The Warning Signs

Also read:

12 Contraindications To The Use Of Oral Contraceptive Pills

See list of all articles on Birth Control

12 Side Effects Of Oral Contraceptive Pills

2011-07-29T05:15:00.000-07:00

In previous post I discussed the factors which contraindicate the use of oral contraceptive pills. Today, let's see what are the possible side effects that you may have due to the use of pills. Combined pills contain the two female hormones estrogen and progesterone and prevent pregnancy by suppressing ovulation and producing atrophic changes in the inner lining of the uterus. They also cause thickening of the cervical mucus thus preventing the entry of the sperms. However, these hormones may cause some side effects in your body and it's important that you are aware of these before adopting pills as a method of birth control.

Side effects of combined oral pills

#1- You may have spotting between periods specially in the first three months of pill use.

#2- Amount of flow during periods reduces and bleeding may become very scanty.

#3- You become prone to monilial vaginitis.

#4- Long term use of oral contraceptive pills increases the risk of cervical cancer.

#5- Use of pills in nulliparous women (who have not borne children) less than 24 years of age may increase the risk of breast cancer.

#6- Milk production is suppressed in lactating mothers and therefore use of pills is not recommended while you are breast feeding your baby.

#7- You may have nausea and vomiting

#8- Liver and gall bladder may be affected.

#9- Use of pills may reduce carbohydrate tolerance and therefore contraindicated in diabetic women.

#10- Due to the effect of progestogen, you may have:

Headache
Irritability
Tired feeling
Increase in weight

#11- Increased risk of thromboembolism due to increase in clotting mechanism of blood.

#12- Oedema and irritation of eyes may occur in women who use contact lenses.

Also read:

12 Contraindications For Oral Contraceptive Pills

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12 Contraindications For Oral Contraceptive Pills

2011-07-28T05:34:00.000-07:00

Oral contraceptive pills serve as an effective method of contraception and are used by many women for preventing unwanted pregnancy. However, before selecting pills as a method of birth control you should be aware of the contraindications and side effects of these hormonal contraceptives. In this post I'll discuss the contraindications to the use of oral contraceptive pills.

Combined oral pills are not recommended for you-

#1- If you have hypertension or you have a tendency for high blood pressure.

#2- If you suffer from heart disease.

#3- If you have diabetes.

#4- If you have suffered in the past from any of these conditions:

Thrombosis i.e. formation of a blood clot within a blood vessel
Sickle cell anemia
Severe migrane

#5- If you suffer from a chronic liver disease.

#6- If you have thyroid disease.

#7- If you have breast cancer.

#8- If you are obese or overweight.

#9- If you are lactating or breastfeeding milk to your baby.

#10- If you are using drugs which induce enzyme production, e.g.

Rifampicin
Antiepileptic drugs except sodium valproate

#11- If you are going to have a surgery within 4 to 6 weeks.

#12- If you are more than 45 years of age. You can use pills for several years up to the age of 35 and after that till the age of 45 if you are healthy and do not smoke. However, regular checkups and pap smears are recommended to detect cervical cancer in early stages.

Long term use of oral contraceptive pills is one of the risk factors for cervical cancer.

I'll discuss more about the side effects of pills in the next post.

Also read:

10 Contraindications To The Use Of Cu T and Nova T

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10 Contraindications To The Use Of Copper T and Nova T

2011-07-27T06:20:00.000-07:00

While selecting a method of contraception which suits you the most, several factors should be considered. One such factor is its contraindications. This post deals with the conditions which contraindicate the use of Copper T and Nova T, commonly used intrauterine contraceptive devices (IUDs) containing copper. This includes Paraguard which is Cu T 380A.

Copper IUDs are not recommended for you -

#1- If you have become pregnant

#2- If you suffer from abnormal bleeding from vagina e.g. excessive or irregular bleeding.

#3- If you suffer from lower genital tract infection or pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) now or in the past.

#4- If bearing child in future is absolutely necessary for you.

#5- If any of your previous pregnancies was abnormally located i.e. ectopic pregnancy where the fertilized ovum is implanted at a site other than the uterus.

#6- If you suffer from moderate to severe pain during your menstrual periods.

#7- If you have fibroids in the uterus.

#8- If you have iron deficiency anemia.

#9- If you suffer from heart disease.

#10- If you are a patient of Wilson's disease. It is a hereditary disorder in which increased intestinal absorption of copper results in accumulation of copper in various organs like brain, liver, kidney and cornea.

Onset Of Labor - Signs To Watch Out For In Last Month Of Pregnancy

2011-07-26T06:14:00.000-07:00

In the last month of pregnancy you should be observant towards certain changes in your body which indicate that you are in labour. You should also be able to differentiate between true and false labor pains. Read on to find what symptoms appear in your body when you are in labor.

Signs Of Onset Of Labor

1. True Labor Pains

When labour starts, you will start experiencing intermittent pains in the abdomen. These pains are felt more often in the front of the abdomen and usually radiate towards the thighs. True pains must be differentiated from the false labor pains.

Difference between true and false labor pains

False pains are more often found in the women who are pregnant for the first time. Such pains may appear 1 or 2 weeks before the onset of true labor pains. Pain and discomfort is felt in the abdomen and may be confused with the true labor pains. However, false pains have these features, which differentiate them from the true pains:

	False Labor Pains	True Labor Pains
1.	Dull and continuous pain and discomfort	Intermittent pains
2.	Felt in lower abdomen and groin	Felt in front of abdomen and radiates towards the thighs
3.	Usually relieved by sedatives	Not relieved

2. Discharge of mucus mixed with blood ('Show')

With the onset of labor, there is expulsion of cervical mucus plug mixed with few drops of blood. This is called 'Show'. Slight blood oozes out from the ruptured blood vessels as the membranes start separating from the uterine wall with the onset of labor.

Please Note:

1. Being continuously in touch with your gynecologist/obstetrician and regular visits to the clinic is absolutely necessary during pregnancy.

2. Report every change or symptom to your doctor.

3. This post is only informative in nature and best judgment of your condition can be made only by your doctor after examining you.

See list of all articles on Pregnancy

Why Tetanus Vaccine Is Given In Pregnancy - What Is Tetanus

2011-07-25T07:00:00.000-07:00

India

, injections of tetanus toxoid are given on routine basis to every pregnant woman. Immunization provides protection to the mother as well as the newborn baby from a serious disease condition called tetanus. Read on to find what exactly is the disease called tetanus and how and when the tetanus shots are given during pregnancy.

What Is Tetanus?

Tetanus is an acute infectious disease caused by the toxin(poison) of a bacteria, Clostridium tetani, which grows at the site of injury. There is a state of almost persistent painful spasms of some of the voluntary muscles.

What Are The Symptoms Of Tetanus?

The first sign is stiffness of the jaw, muscles of the food pipe (esophagus), and some muscles of the neck.
Soon the jaws become rigidly fixed (Trismus or Lock jaw)
The voice is changed
Muscles of the face contract, producing a wild excited expression, a compound of bitter laughter and crying (Risus sardonicus).
The muscles of the back and extremities contract
Patient may bent back in a bow (Opisthotonos), or to the side (Pleurothotonos),or forward (Emprosthotonos).
Spasmodic contraction of muscles are excited by noises, breeze of air, or irritation of clothes.
The temperature may become very high.
Patient also suffers from severe pain, hunger, thirst, and want of sleep.

P.S. - Death may occur due to insufficient supply of oxygen and exhaustion.

About Tetanus Neonatorum

It is the tetanus of the new born babies which occurs as a result of infection of the naval caused due to lack of proper sterilization while cutting the umbilical cord.

About Puerperal Tetanus In Women

It is the tetanus that occurs in women following child birth.

Immunization In Pregnancy

Aim - Protecting mother and child from tetanus.

Dosage -

Two intramuscular injections of 0.5 ml tetanus toxoid is given at the interval of 6 weeks.
First shot is given preferably between 16 to 24 weeks of pregnancy.
Women who are immunized in the past are given a booster dose in the last trimester i.e. last 3 months of pregnancy.

Please Note:

Regular visits to the gynaecologist and pre-natal checkups during pregnancy are must for the well being of mother and the child.
Content of this post is informative in nature and cannot replace a face to face consultation and advice of your gynaecologist.

Also read:

Tips For Pregnancy Care

See list of all articles on Pregnancy

Events Following Conception - Part II

2011-07-24T06:43:00.000-07:00

This is in continuation with the previous post How Pregnancy Occurs - Events Following Conception - Part I.

On 10-11th day after conception, the process of implantation of the embryo in the wall of the uterus (womb) is completed. By this time it is covered on all sides by the tissue of the uterine wall.

As mentioned in the previous post, the cells on the outer side lead to the formation of placenta and membranes.

Functions of Placenta

Provides nutrition to the baby
Removes waste products from its circulation
Supplies oxygen
Forms a protective barrier against certain harmful substances in mother's blood

Membranes also protect the baby from infection and contribute to the formation of amniotic fluid which serves as a shock absorber.

While the outer cells form the protective structures, inner cell develop into the baby.

14-21 days after conception - Neural plate is formed which later forms the nervous system and brain of the child.

21-28 days after conception - Heart becomes prominent

4-6 weeks after conception - Hands and feet begin to appear and the face is formed. Size is about 4-15mm.

6-8 weeks after conception - All major structures have developed and embryo can be recognized as a human. Size reaches about 15-30 mm.

8-12 weeks after conception - External genitals of the baby form. Size of the baby is about 30-60mm.

20 weeks - Fine hairs called lanugo cover the skin.

36 weeks - Lanugo starts to disappear.

40 weeks - Nails project beyond finger tips.

Also read:

How To Know If You Are Pregnant - 5 Early Signs

How And When To Do Pregnancy Test At Home

7 Tips For Pregnancy Care

See list of all articles on Pregnancy

How Pregnancy Occurs - Events Following Conception - Part I

2011-07-22T05:54:00.000-07:00

This is a question in many women's mind that what exactly happens when pregnancy occurs and how the baby develops inside the womb as pregnancy progresses. Seeing their baby on the monitor during first ultrasonography is an exciting and emotional experience for many women. (I was no exception!) Read on to find what happens when you conceive and how your baby develops with time.

Ovum is released from the ovary sometime around your mid-cycle. It is then picked by the fallopian tube of the uterus (womb) i.e. the uterine tube. The union of the sperm and the ovum takes place in the uterine tube. This is known as fertilization. It leads to the production of a single cell called zygote.

Ovum + Sperm = Single cell called Zygote [Fertilization]

Sex of the baby is determined by the type of chromosome contributed by the father's sperm. X chromosome results in a girl child and Y chromosome results in the development of a boy.

Ovum (X) + Sperm(X) = Girl (XX)

Ovum(X) + Sperm(Y) = Boy (XY)

Single celled zygote undergoes a series of divisions. About 30 hours after fertilization first division occurs resulting in the two celled stage. After this, segmentation continues through 4 and 8 cell stage till a cluster of 16 cells is formed which resembles in appearance to a mulberry. This is known as morula. All this happens in the uterine tube. On the 4th day morula enters the uterine cavity. Inner cells of the morula form the baby and outer cells form the membranes which provide protection and nutrition to the baby.

0 hour - Fertilization -> single celled zygote (In uterine tube)

30 hours - Two cell stage

40-50 hours - 4 cell stage

72 hours/3rd day - 12 cell stage

96 hours/4th day - 16 celled morula (Enters the uterine cavity)

Morula remains free in the uterine cavity till the 5th day. Some fluid enters the morula resulting in a cystic structure called blastocyst. On the 6th day from fertilization (20th day of a regular 28 day cycle) blastocyst sticks to the wall of the uterus and continues to penetrate till the 10th or 11th day. This process is known as implantation or nidation.

5th day - Blastocyst formation

6-7th day - Blastocyst starts to penetrate uterine wall (Implantation started)

9th day - Penetration continues

10-11th day - Implantation completed.

I tried my best to explain a complicated subject. Hope you were able to grasp. Enough for this post now. I'll discuss further development in the next post, Events Following Conception-II.

Also read:

How To Know If You Are Pregnant-5 Early Signs

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7 Tips For Care During Pregnancy

2011-07-21T05:43:00.001-07:00

Pre-natal care is necessary for a normal pregnancy. Now the question arises what exactly a normal pregnancy is. No two women will have similar experiences in pregnancy. Nature and intensity of symptoms vary from one woman to other as well as from one pregnancy to other in one woman.

However, any pregnancy which ends between 38 to 42 weeks, with the delivery of a baby in good health with weight of 2.5 kg or more and with no complications to the mother's health, is considered to be a normal pregnancy.

Here are some tips (do's and don'ts) to have a normal pregnancy with delivery of a healthy child from a mother in good health:

1. Take Proper Diet During Pregnancy

Food a woman eats during pregnancy has many more purposes to serve than in the non-pregnant state. Adequate diet is necessary for:

Good health of the mother
Growth of the baby inside the womb
Strength required during labor
Sufficient production of milk in mother's breasts

Take nutritious and easily digestible diet rich in protein, vitamins and minerals. It would be better to supplement your daily routine diet with:

At least half litre milk
One Egg (Ignore if you are a pure vegetarian)
Plenty of green vegetables
Seasonal fruits (It's said that papaya is prohibited, as it may cause abortion)

2. Take Proper Rest And Sleep During Pregnancy

Normal activities can be continued during pregnancy, but:

Heavy work, especially during first 3 months and last 1 and a half month of pregnancy, should be avoided.
Take adequate sleep.
In the last month woman should be in bed for at least 8 hours at night and 2 hours in the day time.

3. Be Careful While Taking Bath

Daily bath is good but be very careful or you may slip due to imbalance.

4. Use Proper Clothes And Foot Wear During Pregnancy

Wear loose and comfortable clothes
Do not wear high heels or slippery foot wear especially later in pregnancy

5. Avoid Sexual Intercourse At Crucial Times Of Pregnancy

Coitus during first 3 months of pregnancy especially during the time of missed period may increase the risk of abortion.
During the last month of pregnancy, coitus increases the risk of infection and induction of labor before time.

6. Take Special Care During Travel

Avoid journey on road or vehicles having jerks especially during first 3 months of and last 1and 1/2 months of pregnancy.
Journey between 4th to 7th months of pregnancy is comparatively safer.

7. Quit Smoking And Alcohol Consumption (If You Do)

Heavy smoking hinders proper growth of the baby and may also cause abortion.
Alcohol increases the risk of abnormalities and growth retardation of the baby.

P.S. - Regular visits to the gynaecologist and pre-natal checkups during pregnancy are necessary for the well being of mother and the child.

Also read:

5 Reasons To Take Folic Acid Supplements In Pregnancy

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5 Reasons To Take Folic Acid Supplement In Pregnancy

2011-07-20T21:23:00.000-07:00

Folic acid tablets are prescribed to every pregnant woman as soon as the diagnosis of pregnancy is confirmed. Folic acid intake is essential, especially during first trimester or first three months of pregnancy as this time is crucial for the development of the nervous system and brain of your child in which folic acid plays a vital role. Read on to find important facts about folic acid and the bad effects its deficiency can have on the health of your baby.

Facts About Folic Acid

Folic acid is a member of the vitamin B complex.
It is also known as pteroylglutamic acid.
It is necessary for the formation of the red blood cells.
Daily requirement of folic acid in the non-pregnant state is about 50 micro gram.
During pregnancy this is increased to 800 micro gram.

Natural Source Of Folic Acid

Folic acid is found naturally in:

Green plants
Liver
Yeast

5 Bad Effects Of Folic Acid Deficiency In Pregnant Woman

Folic acid deficiency is responsible for a number of diseases and conditions detrimental to the health of both mother and the child, such as:

1. Anencephaly

It is a congenital neural tube defect (NTD) in which there is an absence of brain and cranial vault
Cerebral hemispheres of the child are either completely missing or reduced in size to small masses.
Survival of a child affected with this condition is not possible.

2. Spina Bifida

Another neural tube defect (NTD) found in the walls of the spinal canal.
It is caused by lack of union between the laminae of the vertebrae.
Mostly the lumbar portion of the spine is affected.

3. Megaloblastic anemia of pregnancy/Folic acid deficiency anemia

Symptoms are fatigue, reduced appetite, nausea and vomiting, diarrhea, and depression.
Urinary tract infection is usually associated.
Soreness in the mouth may be present
Purpura (purple patches in the skin due to hemorrhage) is sometimes present.

4. Low Birth Weight Of The Baby

Deficiency of folic acid in the maternal blood causes an anemic condition in the mother, as a result baby receives insufficient nutrition.
This may have a bad effect on the proper growth of the child leading to a low birth weight.

5. Premature Separation Of Placenta From Uterus

Premature separation of a normally situated placenta after the 20th week of pregnancy is known as abruptio placentae.
One of the probable causes of this condition is folic acid deficiency.
It is a serious condition which may lead to death of the baby in the womb.
Hidden or apparent bleeding occurs associated with pain.

Recommended Dosage Of Folic Acid In Early Pregnancy

Daily dose of 4mg of FOLVITE (trade name of folic acid) is recommended, especially during first 3 months of pregnancy.

Recommended Dosage Of Folic Acid Before Pregnancy

Its even better to start taking folic acid (daily dose of 4 mg Folvite) 3 months before conceiving and continue till the first three months of pregnancy.

Please Note:

Regular visits to the gynaecologist and pre-natal checkups during pregnancy are must for the well being of mother and the child.
Content of this post is informative in nature and cannot replace a face to face consultation and advice of your gynaecologist.

Also read:
Easy Formula To Calculate Your Due Date Of Delivery

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Easy Formula To Calculate Your Due Date Of Delivery

2011-07-19T05:06:00.000-07:00

You can yourself predict the due date of your child's birth, if you remember the first date of your last menstrual period. Formula for calculating the expected date of delivery, i.e, EDD is based on the knowledge of the duration of pregnancy.

Duration Of Pregnancy

Duration of pregnancy calculated from the first day of the last menstrual period is known as the menstrual age or gestational age, which is equal to:

10 lunar months
9 calendar months and 7 days
280 days
40 weeks

Formula To Calculate The Due Date

Expected date of delivery, also called Expected date of confinement (EDC), can be calculated using the Nagele's rule or formula.

What is Nagele's Formula?

Using nagele's rule, expected date of delivery is calculated by subtracting 3 months from the month of the last menstrual period, and adding 7 days to the first day of the last menstrual period. Thus:

Month of EDD = Month of LMP - 3
Day of EDD = First day of LMP + 7

P.S. - EDD is the expected date of delivery and LMP is the last menstrual period.

For Example:

If your LMP = 12 June 2011

Using Nagele's rule

Month of your EDD = 6 (June is the 6th month of the year) - 3

= 3 i.e. third month of the year, which is March

Day of your EDD = 12 + 7 = 19

So, if 12 June 2011 is your first day of the last menstrual period-

Your Due Date = 19 March 2012

Accuracy of prediction of due date using Nagele's formula

About 50% women deliver in the range of EDD calculated with this method +/- 7 days.

Also read:
Significance Of Ultrasonography In Early Pregnancy

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USG In Early Pregnancy - What Is Its Significance?

2011-07-18T07:32:00.000-07:00

Diagnosis of pregnancy is made on the basis of presence of the early symptoms of pregnancy, followed by detection of HCG in the urine or blood of the pregnant woman through pregnancy tests. For further confirmation and evaluation of pregnancy, your gynaecologist may get an ultrasound examination done. Ultrasonography in early pregnancy serves three important purposes, such as:

#1. Confirms the diagnosis of pregnancy. ( In the previous post I have discussed why pregnancy tests sometimes fail to give the correct results.)

#2. Ascertains the age of the fetus (baby in your womb).

Gestational age estimated by Crown-Rump Length (CRL) is most accurate (variation +/- 5 days) in first trimester of pregnancy.

#3. Detects any abnormality in pregnancy, if present.

Characteristic features that are detected through TAUS( Trans Abdominal Ultra Sonography):

5th week of Pregnancy - Small white gestational ring or gestational sac (GS) becomes evident.

6th week of Pregnancy - Fetal pole and Yolk sac becomes evident.

7th week of Pregnancy - Cardiac activity or heart beats of the baby can be detected.

8th week of Pregnancy - Embryonic movements ( Movements of the baby in the womb)

With the use of vaginal probe in Trans Vaginal Ultra Sonography (TVUS) these features can be detected by 1 week earlier:

4th week of Pregnancy - Small white gestational ring or gestational sac (GS) becomes evident.

5th week of Pregnancy - Fetal pole and Yolk sac becomes evident.

6th week of Pregnancy - Cardiac activity can be detected.

7th week of Pregnancy - Embryonic movements ( Movements of the baby in the womb)

Also read:

How To Know If You Are Pregnant - 5 Early Signs

How To Confirm Pregnancy At Home

How Pregnancy Test Works

How To Avoid Pregnancy Naturally

How Pregnancy Test Works - Why It Fails At Times

2011-07-17T06:04:00.000-07:00

Appearance of the five early signs of pregnancy requires the confirmation of pregnancy through the pregnancy test which can be done at home using the test kits or strips available in the medical stores. How and when this test should be done has been discussed in detail in the previous post. Today, let's see how this pregnancy test works and what is the principle involved.

How Pregnancy Test Works? - Principle Involved

Urine test or the blood test employed in diagnosing pregnancy works by detecting a particular hormone called HCG in the urine or blood sample obtained from a pregnant woman.

About HCG

Human Chorionic Gonadotrophin, i.e., HCG is produced by the cells of the placenta and secreted into both maternal and fetal blood and is necessary for sustaining pregnancy.

At the earliest, it can be detected in the serum or urine of the mother, 8 to 9 days after ovulation.

Its amount reaches maximum level between 60 to 70 days of pregnancy after which its concentration falls till 100 to 130 days.

Thereafter HCG level remains constant with a slight rise at 32 week.

Two weeks after child birth, HCG disappears from the mother's body.

Why Pregnancy Test Is False Negative Sometimes?

The test results are mostly accurate when performed at the correct time following the instructions mentioned in the previous post - How To Do Pregnancy Test At Home?

Reasons for a negative test may be:

#1. If the urine sample is too dilute, HCG level may not be detected.

#2. If the test is performed too early, the low levels of HCG cannot be detected.

#3. Test done after 12 weeks of pregnancy will not detect HCG.

#4. If you have not followed the instructions properly, you may get an incorrect result.

Why Pregnancy Test Is False Positive Sometimes?

A test may show positive result in a non-pregnant woman if:

#1. Test has not been performed in a correct manner.

#2. Using an expired kit or strip for the test.

#3. Test results not read within 3-5 minutes.

#4. HCG injection is given to the woman as a part of infertility treatment.

#5. Certain diseases such as choriocarcinoma, germ cell tumor etc. may also produce a false positive result.

#6. Use of antipsychotic drugs and sedatives.

#7. More conditions which may cause false positive results include:

Hypothyroidism
Menopausal woman
Renal failure
Oophorectomy(ovaries have been removed)

After detecting pregnancy through the home test kits or in case of any doubt you should visit your gynaecologist for further confirmation and monitoring of pregnancy through ultrasound .

Also read:
How To Know If You Are Pregnant - 5 Early Signs
How And When To Do Pregnancy Test At Home

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How And When To Do Pregnancy Test At Home

2011-07-15T06:18:00.000-07:00

If you have the 5 Early Signs of pregnancy, then it's time to take a pregnancy test to confirm your pregnancy. Various test kits or strips are available in every medical store. Read on to find all you wanted to know about these kits and home pregnancy tests.

When Should Pregnancy Test Be Done?

It's important that you do the test neither too early nor too late in order to get the accurate results. Let's see, exactly how many days after the last menstrual period should the pregnancy confirmation test be done.

Though the test can be done soon after the missed period, that is, 28 days or 4 weeks after the first day of the last menstrual period (If you have a regular 28 days cycle) but there are higher chances of getting a false negative result.

For more accurate results, test should be done 7-10 days after the date on which you were expecting your period, that is, 35 - 40 days after the first day of your last menstrual period.

If the test is negative, repeat the test after 3 days.

How to do pregnancy test at home?

Test can be done at home in 3 simple steps:

Step #1 - Collect the urine sample

Preferably the first voided urine in the morning should be used as it is more concentrated thus reducing the chances of false negative result.

Use a clean and dry container.

For washing the container, do not use soap or detergent, as it may interfere with the test.

Use fresh urine sample for accurate results.

Step #2 - Put 3 drops of urine in the 'S' region of device.

1. Take the device out of the pouch just before you start the test.

2. You will be able to see well marked sample and results area.

3. Do not allow the device to be exposed to fan or breeze of air.

4. If the kit was kept in the refrigerator, allow it to come to the room temperature before performing the test.

5. Now, place your device on a flat surface and collect the urine sample in the dropper provided in the kit.

6. Add 3 drops of urine in the 'sample well' marked as "S" in some kits.

7. Read the result within 3-5 minutes(as directed in the instructions provided with your kit). Interpreting the result after 3-5 minutes has no value.

Step #3 - Interpret the test result

There are 3 possible outcomes:

Result A

Two pink lines appear, one in control region (marked with 'C') and one in test region (marked with 'T')

This means - You are pregnant.

Even a faint or thin pink line in the 'T' area means you are pregnant.

Consult your gynaecologist for further confirmation.

Result B

Only one line appears in the 'C' region.

This means - You are not pregnant or it's too early to perform a test. You can repeat the test after 3 days.

If in doubt, consult your gynaecologist.

Result C

No line appears.

This means - Test is invalid and you will have to repeat the test with a new device.

Pregnancy Test Kits Available In India

Some of the brands commonly available in Indian medical stores are:

1. Preg color kit

2. Akon kit

3. Velocit

4. Prega News

Price Of These Kits: 40 to 50 INR

Also read:

How To Know If You Are Pregnant? - 5 Early Signs

Why We Get False Positive Or Negative Test Sometimes
How To Avoid Pregnancy Naturally
Significance Of USG In Early Pregnancy

General Health

Womens Health

Quotes

Tools

Quizzes

Contact

Dr. Surabhi's Clinic

How To Know If You Are Pregnant? - 5 Early Signs

2011-07-14T06:40:00.000-07:00

Early detection of pregnancy is important, whether you want a baby or not. If you are willing to become a mother, then early detection helps you take proper care of the baby. If you are not ready for motherhood as yet, then early detection is necessary for safe termination of pregnancy. Here are the 5 signs and symptoms of pregnancy which appear in the first month:

1. Period Missed On The Expected Date

If you were having periods at regular intervals, and now you have missed period on the expected date, then probably you are pregnant. If, in addition to this, other symptoms mentioned below are present, then definitely its time to go for a pregnancy test.

2. Feeling Of Sickness In The Morning

Most women have morning sickness in their first pregnancy. Soon after the missed period, you may have a feeling of uneasiness and nausea on waking in morning. Nausea may be mild or intense, leading to vomiting. However, this sick feeling rarely lasts beyond the 3rd month of pregnancy.

3. Tired Feeling Or Fatigue

This symptom may appear soon after the missed period (4 weeks). Slightest work makes you tired and a feeling of fatigue may persist whole day.

4. Feeling Of Discomfort In The Breasts

Breast discomfort is especially marked in the first pregnancy and appears around 6 - 8 weeks. You may have:

Feeling of fullness in the breasts along with a pricking sensation.

Breasts become enlarged and delicate veins become visible under the skin, due to engorgement of the blood vessels.

Nipple and areola become more pigmented or dark.

5. Increased Frequency Of Micturition

This symptom usually starts around the 8th week of pregnancy and lasts till the 12th week. You may have urging to urinate at short intervals.

Why pregnancy increases frequency of urination?

Pregnant uterus becomes bulky and exerts pressure on the fundus of the urinary bladder.

Increased congestion of the mucus membrane of the urinary bladder due to pregnancy.

Pregnant uterus bends forward and the cervix shifts backwards, due to this, base of the bladder becomes stretched.

This symptom rarely lasts beyond the first trimester of pregnancy, since, after 12 weeks the uterus straightens up with the increasing size of the baby in the womb.

Also read:

How And When To Do Pregnancy Test At Home?

How Pregnancy Test Works And Why It Fails Sometimes

How To Avoid Pregnancy Naturally?

Significance Of USG In Early Pregnancy

Green Discharge - A Symptom Of Vaginal Trichomoniasis In Women

2011-07-13T06:19:00.000-07:00

Vaginal trichomoniasis, a type of vaginal infection caused by a parasite called Trichomonas vaginalis, is the most common cause of vaginitis in the women of reproductive age group. Suffering would be less, if women are able to identify the condition in time and take proper treatment. Here are the symptoms of Vaginal trichomoniasis, which every woman should know.

Symptoms of vaginal trichomoniasis

Trichomoniasis in women is clinically manifested by the following features:

1. Profuse discharge from the vagina

There is sudden, profuse discharge from the vagina:

The typical discharge of trichomoniasis is frothy, creamy and thin.
It is, often, greenish-yellow in colour.
It has an offensive smell.

2. Irritation and itching of vulvar tissue

Along with vaginal discharge, woman complains of persistent burning and itching, inside and around the vaginal opening. Vulva becomes red and inflamed.

3. Urinary complaints

Patient of vaginal trichomoniasis may also have urinary complaints, like:

Difficulty or pain during urination
Frequent urging to urinate

4. Pain during coitus

Patient may complain of pain during coitus, due to inflammation of the vagina. Vaginal wall becomes red and inflamed with several hemorrhagic spots, giving it a 'strawberry' appearance.

5. Symptoms of superimposed pelvic infection

If pelvic infection occurs with vaginal trichomoniasis, patient will also have these complaints:

Pain in abdomen
Low back pain

How is the parasite transmitted to the vagina?

Trichomonas vaginalis is transmitted to the vagina in one of the following ways:

Mode #1 Mostly, transmission occurs through sexual contact with infected man, who harbours the parasite in urethra and prostate.

Mode #2 It can also be transmitted by use of infected person's towels, clothes etc.

Mode #3 Parasite may be transmitted from one woman to the other through toilet articles.

Mode #4 Trichomonas may be transmitted to the vagina through examining gloves.

Incubation Period

Time interval between transmission of parasite and appearance of symptoms is 3 to 28 days.

High risk period for infection

The infective organism thrives well in the vagina, when the local defence is weak, such as:

During and after menstruation
After sexual stimulation
During pregnancy
After vaginal surgery

Conclusion

Trichomoniasis vaginalis is a common form of vaginitis, found mostly in the women of reproductive age group. Patient complains of a sudden and profuse discharge from the vagina, which is frothy, greenish and offensive; associated with persistent itching and burning of the vulvar tissue. There may be pain during coitus and urination. Infection is transmitted through coitus or use of infected person's articles.

Cervical Cancer Prevention - 5 Effective Ways

2011-07-12T06:24:00.003-07:00

Prevention is definitely better than cure, especially if the disease is fatal, like cervical cancer. Though life-threatening, cancer of cervix is not inevitable and five simple measures, mentioned here, can effectively decrease your chances of having cervical cancer.

1. Avoid Sexual Intercourse Before the Age of 18 Years

Women who started having coitus early in life are at a higher risk of developing cervical cancer than women who started later in life.

Why is this important?

Before the age of 18 years, cervical epithelium is physiologically immature.

Immature, unstable cells of the cervical epithelium are more prone to have abnormal changes, due to the effect of certain infectious agents, transmitted to the woman during coitus.

These infectious agents act as carcinogens on the immature epithelial cells and lead to pathological changes in them, resulting in cervical intra-epithelial neoplasia (CIN), which is the precursor of cervical cancer.

Some of the cases of CIN progress to invasive cervical cancer, in next 15 to 25 years.

2. Maintain Local Hygiene to Avoid Vaginal Infection

Poor personal hygiene is also considered as one of the risk factors for cervical cancer. Women with hygienic habits are less prone to vaginal infections, and so to cancer of cervix. If vaginal infection occurs, take prompt and adequate treatment.

Why is this important?

As stated earlier, certain infectious agents have a carcinogenic effect on the cervical epithelium, leading to malignant changes. These include:

Human papilloma virus (HPV)
Herpes simplex virus Type 2 (HSV 2)

Use of condoms is also an effective way to prevent the infections of the genital tract.

3. Visit Your Doctor for Pap Test in Every Three Years

Women who go for regular health check ups and pap tests, to exclude malignant changes in the cervical epithelium, are at lesser risk for cancer of cervix.

Why is this important?

Invasive carcinoma does not start all of a sudden. Pre-malignant changes begin to occur in the cervical epithelium, several years before the cancer becomes invasive.

Pap test detects the abnormal changes in the cervical epithelium.

The disease is completely reversible when detected and promptly treated at this pre-malignant state, preventing its progression to the invasive form of cancer.

4. Avoid The Risk Factors For Cervical Cancer

See 14 risk factors for cervical cancer

5. Improve Your Immunity (Most important)

Any exposure to the so called causative factors will not affect you, if you have a strong immune system. For this:

Eat nutritious food
Exercise daily
Avoid mental stress
Take proper rest and sleep
Meditate
Take your constitutional homoeopathic medicine

Please Note:

Two vaccines, Cervarix and Gardasil, are considered to prevent cervical cancer by protecting against the HPV infection. Girls of 11 and 12 years of age are given three shots within 6 months.

I personally do not consider this very effective. Read WHY?

Conclusion

If you want to decrease your chances of cervical cancer, you should avoid having sex until 18 years of age, take special care of local hygiene to prevent vaginal infection, and take adequate treatment if infection occurs; also, don't forget to go for regular health check ups and pap tests at every three-year interval. However, most important way is to keep your immune system strong.