Garlic Is Very STRONG During Pregnancy, Here Is WHY It IS VERY Important.
Is It Safe to Eat Garlic During Pregnancy?
Garlic is one of the most widely used herbs, popular in international cuisines from Italian to Asian-style dishes – but does that make garlic safe to eat while pregnant?
Many herbs are cautioned again when expecting, so garlic’s safety is a logical question to ask.
According to the American Pregnancy Association (APA), garlic is rated as “likely safe” by the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
It is important to note that this safety rating only applies to garlic eaten as a food and only “in amounts commonly found in food” (source: APA, FDA).
Since the phrase “in amounts commonly found in food” is quite vague, a good way to think about this is the amount of garlic you might add to a recipe.
While you might add 3 or 4 cloves of garlic into a recipe, you most likely wouldn’t put 3 whole bulbs of garlic in a single-serve portion.
Garlic comes in many different varieties, some with their own unique health considerations. Below I’ll break down the safety of the most common edible garlic.
Garlic-containing foods are also commonly craved during pregnancy so I’ll cover more on that as well.
Is Raw Garlic Safe for Pregnant Women?
Raw garlic is the garlic that you most likely think of when you hear the word “garlic” or when you’re using it in a recipe.
While raw garlic also comes in a few varieties, such as Elephant garlic, the only difference there is the size.
As I outlined above, when eaten in the normal amounts found in food, raw garlic is safe for pregnant women.
The one raw garlic item that may not always be safe is homemade garlic-infused oil.
Garlic infused oil is made by allowing garlic to steep in a jar of oil, usually olive oil. When homemade, there is a risk of botulism.
Garlic-infused oil can be safe, so long as the oil is refrigerated and used (or tossed away) within 4 days (source: CDC).
raw fresh garlic bulb and cloves
Can I Eat Wild Garlic During Pregnancy?
Wild garlic is a great way to cook with the nature around you, and it’s a popular foraged food.
Misidentification is a huge problem, however, as wild garlic leaves are similar to many poisonous plants and eating them can cause serious health problems (source: German Federal Office for Food Security- AGES).
If you are a novice at plant identification, it is best to buy wild garlic from a grocer in order to avoid accidental poisoning.
The German Federal Office for Food Security also warns of another toxic contaminant- fox tapeworm. Foxes carrying tapeworm have been known to transmit the parasite on wild garlic leaves.
If you are experienced at identifying and harvesting wild garlic, be sure to thoroughly wash the leaves before eating. Washing removes the tapeworm cyst and prevents parasitic contamination (source: AGES).
While eating wild garlic itself isn’t harmful during pregnancy, wild garlic is more risky when it comes to food safety.
Buying as opposed to picking wild garlic out in nature, as well as washing the leaves can help to keep you safe if you do choose to eat wild garlic.
Is Black Garlic OK When Pregnant?
Black garlic is widely known as a strong antioxidant, but it’s actually the same plant as regular ol’ garlic.
The difference here is that black garlic has gone through a process of high-heat fermentation. The temperature of the fermentation is usually between 70-80°C, which is hot enough to kill off most microorganisms.
What’s more, the fermentation process doesn’t produce alcohol, so overall, black garlic is safe during pregnancy (Source: Journal of Food and Drug Analysis).
Can Pregnant Women Eat Ginger and Garlic?
Common as a paste, ginger and garlic is safe in pregnancy and is fairly innocuous, the combo may even help to settle a nauseous stomach!
For store-bought ginger and garlic paste, be sure to store according to package instructions, likely in the refrigerator after it’s been opened.
If you’re making ginger and garlic paste at home, be sure to wash the ginger before peeling and store in the refrigerator to avoid bacterial contamination.
garlic bread
Can Pregnant Women Eat Garlic Bread?
A comfort food staple, garlic bread is also a common craving during pregnancy.
Whether you prefer garlic knots, breadsticks, or the classic yellow and red box of Texas Toast, garlic bread is perfectly safe during pregnancy.
Frozen, pre-packaged garlic bread is usually fairly high in salt, however, so if your prenatal medical care providers have advised you to monitor your sodium intake consider homemade or opt for less salty options, such as roasted garlic sourdough loaves.
Are Garlic Supplements or Pills Safe During Pregnancy?
Garlic’s popularity goes beyond the dinner table – the herb is also common in the supplement aisle.
While garlic was listed as “likely safe” by the FDA when it comes to food uses, there is no official safety recommendation for garlic supplements in pregnancy. This includes garlic pills, tablets, tinctures, and “extracts.”
Garlic is a natural blood thinner and also lowers blood pressure. Because of this, there is some thought that garlic supplements could be useful for women with pre-eclampsia, where hypertension is a concern (source: Cochrane Library).
While lower blood pressure and thinning blood both sound positive, during pregnancy too low of blood pressure can be dangerous.
Additionally, taking a blood thinner too soon before delivery can cause serious birth complications related to excess bleeding (source: Cochrane Library, FDA).
While some studies have been done on the use of garlic supplements in pregnant women, there is no consensus as to whether garlic supplements are actually safe to take during pregnancy.
The American Pregnancy Association states that large amounts of garlic, such as what’s found in supplements, could be contraindicated for pregnant women (source: APA).
If you’re thinking of taking garlic pills, extracts or supplements, then it’s best to speak to your healthcare provider beforehand, to see if they’re suitable or safe for you.
Is Garlic Good for Morning Sickness or Nausea?
Garlic and ginger are often paired together. Since ginger is known for nausea relief, does garlic have the same effect?
12 Foods That Can Cause Miscarriage in Early Pregnancy
While there’s not much evidence in the way of garlic and its relationship to pregnancy nausea or morning sickness, nausea is actually a side effect of taking too much garlic.
The most common “side effect” of garlic is the ever-too-common “garlic breath,” and nausea follows closely behind.
Experiencing nausea after eating or taking garlic can occur from both super garlicky foods as well as garlic supplements (Source: Linus Pauling Institute).
If you are taking a garlic supplement and experience nausea after, consider taking the supplement with a meal. The best way to minimize nausea after eating garlic is simply to go easy on the herb.
garlic oil capsules and garlic bulb
Can Garlic Help with Blood Pressure During Pregnancy?
Sometimes garlic is given as a treatment for high blood pressure and so subsequently it is also thought that garlic may be able to help women avoid pre-eclampsia.
Garlic works lower blood pressure by increasing the compound nitric oxide in the body. Nitric oxide is responsible for increasing the diameter of blood vessels, making it easier to pump blood and thereby lowering the pressure (source: Journal of Nutrition).
Since high blood pressure is a symptom of pre-eclampsia, garlic should help to prevent this condition too, right? Some small studies, like this one published in the Journal of Fetal Medicine, seem to confirm this.
While this seems promising, an analysis of all of the similar studies found that there wasn’t enough evidence to prove the connection (source: Cochrane Library).
If you have any concerns about your blood pressure during pregnancy, it’s best to speak to your doctor first, who can help you plan the best way forward.
Can Garlic Help With Yeast Infections When Pregnant?
Uncomfortable and maybe a tad embarrassing, life might be a bit easier if you could cure a yeast infection without having to get ointment from the pharmacy.
Allicin, a compound found in garlic, is antimicrobial (source: Linus Pauling Institute) – but will garlic really help cure a yeast infection?
There’s a lot of conflicting information about how to get rid of a yeast infection without medication, but there is one thing OB/GYNs want you to know: putting garlic “up there” won’t help! (Source: Health Magazine).
A group of Iranian researchers even tested an allicin-containing cream as a topical ointment, but it was no match for the usual clotrimazole cream (source: Iranian Journal of Nursing and Midwifery Research).
When it comes to yeast infections, it’s best to skip the garlic and head straight to the pharmacy.
Can too Much Garlic Cause Miscarriage?
As I’ve already touched on, garlic can drop blood pressure and thin the blood when taken in large amounts.
Are You Eating the Right Foods? Get Our FREE Guide:
11 Nutrients to add to your pregnancy diet right now!
GET YOUR FREE CHEAT SHEAT
Both of these factors are enough to make women wary of garlic, thinking it might lead to miscarriage.
While Ada (a health information database and clinical AI service), lists excess garlic (the amount found in supplements) as a possible cause for the miscarriage, I was not able to find any evidence to back up this claim (source: Ada).
So while there is no science-backed proof that too much garlic can cause miscarriage, we do know that eating garlic in normal food amounts is likely safe, while medicinal amounts are riskier.
garlic press with crushed garlic clove
Is Garlic Safe in Every Trimester?
Since the FDA lists garlic as “likely safe” to eat during pregnancy, this also means that garlic is safe during any trimester of pregnancy.
This includes the first trimester, which is often a more sensitive time when it comes to safety.
Though not typically recommended during pregnancy, garlic supplements are a different story. As I mentioned above, garlic supplements work to lower blood pressure and thin the blood.
For this reason, it is best to avoid garlic supplements during very late pregnancy.
If you are taking a garlic supplement, your medical providers likely will recommend that you stop taking them a few weeks before your due date (source: Michigan Medicine).
Garlic Pregnancy and Gender Myths
Garlicky foods, including garlic bread, are often craved during pregnancy. Currently, researchers have yet to determine what causes women to be drawn to this strong flavor during pregnancy.
Similar to other commonly craved foods, such as citrus and chocolate, there is an old-wives’-tale that garlic can clue you in to your baby’s gender.
As the rumor goes, if you eat a lot of garlic but don’t have hints of garlic in your body odor, you’re having a girl (source: Today’s Parent). Unfortunately, this is simply a myth – but don’t let that stop you from having a guess!
Another old-wives’-tale related to garlic is that it can be used as a homemade pregnancy test. There are a couple of different “types” of homemade garlic pregnancy tests floating around the internet.
The most common one I found was a test that involved placing a clove of garlic “down there”- which OB/GYNs definitely do not recommend! – and leaving it overnight. Breath that smells of garlic in the morning means a positive result.
There is absolutely no scientific basis for this homemade garlic pregnancy test, not to mention the danger from leaving the garlic inside of your body.
To test for pregnancy at home, it is really best to pick up a test from the drugstore.
One garlic rumor that is true? Both that amniotic fluid and breast milk of women who frequently eat garlic have the quintessential garlic smell (source: LactMed).
The garlic scent in breast milk might increase the time baby spends suckling, but scientists are still unclear if the garlic odor influences the child’s food preferences later in life (source: LactMed, Science Daily).
In conclusion, though many of the garlic myths don’t contain much truth, there is a lot more to garlic than meets the eye.
While eating garlic is safe during pregnancy, there is no consensus from health organizations on garlic supplements.
Garlic is a type of vegetable from the onion family, commonly used to add depth and flavor to a wealth of dishes.
While it’s enjoyed for its powerful aroma and distinct taste, it’s also linked to a variety of potential health benefits. That’s why it’s also available in supplement form.
If you’ve heard of garlic’s medicinal properties, you may wonder if it’s safe for expecting mothers.
This article examines the safety of garlic during pregnancy, including possible side effects and benefits.
Mint Images/Getty Images
Side effects during pregnancy
There are a few side effects to keep in mind when it comes to garlic consumption during pregnancy.
May increase the risk of bleeding
While garlic is safe for most people in the amounts typically used in food, consuming large quantities — like what’s found in garlic supplements — may increase the risk of bleeding.
This side effect can occur in both pregnant and non-pregnant people. It’s especially important to keep this in mind if you’re taking blood-thinning medications or planning to undergo surgery.
The increased risk of bleeding may stem from garlic’s content of a sulfur compound known as ajoene. Ajoene has been shown to inhibit platelet formation. Platelets are small blood cells that help your body form clots to stop bleeding (1Trusted Source).
As such, taking garlic supplements may increase the risk of bleeding during delivery, especially if a cesarean delivery is needed.
That’s why it’s important to consult a healthcare professional before adding garlic supplements to your regimen — as with any supplements.
Could cause heartburn
Eating garlic has been associated with heartburn and indigestion in some people, especially those with gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) and irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) (2Trusted Source).
Pregnancy alone can increase the risk of heartburn, likely due to a combination of hormone changes and the physical pressure of a growing fetus (3Trusted Source).
For some pregnant people, it’s possible that heartburn symptoms may be triggered or worsened by eating garlic or taking garlic supplements.
So, if you experience heartburn after eating a garlic-laden dish, you may find relief by limiting your intake.
That being said, if you don’t experience any adverse effects from adding this fragrant vegetable to your diet, it’s likely safe for you to continue to do so.
SUMMARY
Eating garlic may cause heartburn and indigestion during pregnancy, especially if you have GERD or IBS. In large quantities, it may increase the risk of bleeding — particularly during delivery or if you’re on blood thinners.
Is garlic safe to eat during pregnancy?
While garlic is generally considered safe during pregnancy, there’s limited evidence on the topic.
Enjoying garlic in amounts typically found in food is likely safe. Nevertheless, consuming this flavorful vegetable may be associated with GERD or IBS symptoms in some people.
Currently, there’s no official guideline for the amount of garlic that’s safe to consume per day — both for the public and those who are pregnant.
Further, there isn’t much research regarding the use of garlic supplements during pregnancy.
Since a safe daily dosage has yet to be determined, your best bet is to keep your doctor in the know about any changes to your eating plan or before using a garlic supplement.
Benefits of garlic for pregnant women
SUMMARY
There are no official guidelines on how much garlic is too much, so eating garlic in typical amounts as flavoring is likely safe during pregnancy. Still, it’s best to consult a doctor before taking garlic supplements.
HEALTHLINE NEWSLETTER
Actionable tips for managing your health during pregnancy
Healthline Parenthood helps you take care of you with support and advice in our week by week newsletter.
Benefits for pregnancy
Consuming garlic during pregnancy may come with health benefits.
May prevent preeclampsia
Preeclampsia is a pregnancy complication that can occur after 20 weeks of pregnancy. It’s characterized by high blood pressure (4Trusted Source).
High blood pressure during pregnancy poses various risks, including (5Trusted Source):
reduced blood flow
decreased growth of the fetus
premature delivery
A handful of older studies found that garlic might decrease blood pressure in people with high blood pressure (6Trusted Source, 7Trusted Source).
However, there are limited studies on garlic’s effect on blood pressure in those who are pregnant.
One small study with 44 pregnant women at risk for preeclampsia found that taking 400 mg of garlic once daily for 9 weeks improved markers of oxidative stress. Still, the supplements did not affect overall pregnancy outcomes (6Trusted Source).
An older study with 100 pregnant women at moderate risk for preeclampsia found that taking garlic supplements did not help prevent preeclampsia (8Trusted Source).
More research is warranted to better understand garlic’s influence on blood pressure during pregnancy.
May lower the risk of spontaneous preterm delivery
Although there are a few possible causes of preterm delivery, the majority of preterm births happen spontaneously (9Trusted Source).
An older study associated eating garlic and dried fruit with a reduced risk of spontaneous preterm delivery. The researchers speculated this could be related to garlic’s antimicrobial and prebiotic properties (10Trusted Source).
Another older study found that a diet rich in vegetables, fruit, nuts, whole grains, vegetable oil, and garlic was associated with a significant reduction in spontaneous preterm delivery (11Trusted Source).
Still, more research on the topic is needed.
May lower the risk of infection
Pregnancy can take a physical toll on your body and weaken your immune system, putting you at an increased risk for infection.
Several studies have shown that supplemental garlic doses might strengthen your immune system (12Trusted Source, 13Trusted Source).
The supplement doses in these studies are routinely high in order to achieve the desired benefits. The equivalent of raw garlic is about 4–5 cloves per day.
However, to date, no studies have looked specifically at how dietary or supplemental garlic might affect the immune system in those who are pregnant.
As such, more studies are needed to learn more about garlic’s potential immune-boosting properties during pregnancy.
SUMMARY
Consuming garlic may offer various benefits during pregnancy. Specifically, it might lower the risk of infection, spontaneous birth, and preeclampsia. However, more research is needed.
WERBUNG
Garlic is a herb that is grown all around the world and is a commonly used ingredient in many recipes. But it is more than just a flavouring agent as it offers various medicinal benefits too. But does it also benefit a pregnant woman? Find out!
Garlic is known to help treat certain pregnancy-related problems like high blood pressure and blood circulation. But if you are pregnant, you should be very careful about the quantity of garlic you include in your diet. Eating garlic or any other food will have an impact on your health as well as your baby’s health so you must be careful before including any new food or herb in your pregnancy diet.
Is It Safe to Eat Garlic During Pregnancy?
Garlic is safe for consumption during pregnancy as long as it is consumed in moderate amounts. This is especially true for the first trimester of pregnancy. If you want to add garlic to any dish you make, make sure you don’t add in too much as eating too much garlic in the first trimester of pregnancy can affect the health of the foetus negatively.
You must also exercise caution while including garlic in your diet in the second trimester as well as the third trimester of your pregnancy, as eating excess garlic during this time could lower your blood pressure levels and thin your blood. Hence, proper guidance from a doctor is advised about the quantity of garlic that is suitable for you.
How Much Garlic Can You Eat While Pregnant?
Pregnant women can consume about two to four cloves of fresh garlic daily. This translates to a rough 600 to 1200 mg of garlic extract. During pregnancy, you can also use about 0.03 to 0.12 ml of garlic essential oil after consulting with your doctor.
Benefits of Eating Garlic While Pregnant
Garlic is known as a healthy add-on in a pregnancy diet for various reasons. Here are some of the benefits of eating garlic during pregnancy.
Lowers Cholesterol Levels and the Risk of Heart Problems
Garlic is a well-known remedy for heart problems. Eating garlic during pregnancy can lower the chances of these complications. Garlic in its crushed or chopped form has allicin compound in it, which helps balance cholesterol levels.
Helps Prevent Cancer
Consuming garlic can prevent the occurrence of cancer, especially colon cancer. Eating garlic, onions, and chives can lower the risk of stomach and oesophageal cancer.
Lowers the Risk of Infections
Eating foods with garlic in them can boost your immune system and help fight various illnesses. By including garlic in your diet, you can combat infections and a cold or flu, and keep your baby healthy.
It Can Help Treat Skin Problems
The anti-microbial properties of garlic make it an ideal remedy for skin infections or even infections of the mouth. Topical application of garlic in such cases is known to provide relief.
It Can Help Prevent Hair Loss
Garlic is rich in allicin, a compound that is based on sulphur. Sulphur is known to prevent hair loss and also promote the growth of new hair.
Lowers Fatigue
Garlic is also known to lower the instances of fatigue in pregnant women. Tiredness and fatigue is a common problem during pregnancy but these can be taken care of by eating garlic. Eating garlic can even provide relief from dizziness and vomiting sensation during pregnancy.
Garlic on chopping board
Side Effects of Eating Food With Too Much Garlic in It
Despite the multifold benefits that it offers, garlic, when consumed in large amounts, can lead to a few side effects in pregnant women. Here are some of the side effects of consuming too much garlic during pregnancy.
Garlic is a natural blood thinner. If you consume excessive amounts of garlic, it may lead to uncontrollable bleeding during labour or delivery, whether normal or C-section.
Eating garlic in excessive amounts can result in low blood pressure. While low blood pressure can be beneficial for women with preeclampsia, it may be harmful to others. During pregnancy, the blood pressure lowers due to expanding vessels in the first few weeks. However, when the blood pressure drops to a dangerous level, it may send a woman’s body to shock and she might faint.
Garlic may react negatively with certain anti-coagulation medications like insulin, cyclosporine, coumadin, and saquinavir.
Is garlic safe for pregnant women
It can increase the insulin release and lower the levels of sugar in the blood.
It may also lower one’s ability to absorb iodine and lead to hypothyroidism.
Many women believe that eating garlic during pregnancy can cause a miscarriage. While garlic has certain properties that may cause a miscarriage, but it happens only when a woman consumes it in large quantities.
by TaboolaPromoted Links
You May Like
Top 60 Spiritual Boy & Girl Names With Meanings
Wenn du Zeit am Computer totschlagen musst, ist dieses Städteaufbauspiel ein Muss. Kein Install.
Elvenar - Free Online Game
Top 150 Baby Girl & Boy Names Meaning 'Gift of God'
22 Foods That Can Cause Miscarriage in Early Pregnancy
Wenn du gerne spielst, ist dieses Städteaufbauspiel ein Muss. Keine Werbung, kein Install.
Forge Of Empires
Healthy Garlic Recipes for Pregnant Women
Adding a small amount of garlic in your pregnancy diet can be beneficial for both the mother and the baby. If you want to add garlic to the dishes you make, you should consult a doctor before you do so. In case your doctor approves of your garlic intake, then you can try out the recipes given below.
1. Cauliflower Soup With Garlic
Cauliflower soup with garlic in it would serve as a perfect appetiser for a healthy meal. You can make this healthy vegetarian soup in a jiffy.
cauliflower soup with garlic
Ingredients
2 to 3 sliced garlic cloves
2 tablespoons of oil
A bowl of chopped cauliflower
5 cups of chicken broth with low sodium
Some freshly chopped thyme leaves
Black pepper and Kosher salt
How to Make
Heat some oil in a pan and add the garlic to it. Stir it until it starts to give its distinct aroma or until it turns golden brown in colour. Turn off the flame. Transfer it to a bowl and keep aside.
Take the chicken broth in a deep vessel. Add the cauliflower, thyme, salt and black pepper to it. Let this mixture simmer for 15 minutes until the cauliflower turns tender. Allow it to cool for some time.
Transfer it to a blender and blend it to a smooth puree.
Garnish it with the roasted garlic and thyme and enjoy.
2. Snow Peas Stir-Fried With Garlic
An all-time favourite of kids and adults, snow peas can be had as a side dish. You can make it in no time and enjoy during pregnancy.
snow peas stir fry
Ingredients
3 cloves of garlic, minced
2 cups of snow peas
½ tablespoon of cooking oil
1 tablespoon of sesame oil
1 tablespoon of toasted sesame seeds
Salt as per taste
How to Make
Boil some water in a deep vessel and add the snow peas, salt, and some cooking oil to it. Let it cook for about one minute and keep aside.
In a pan, fry the minced garlic and add the boiled snow peas to it. Sprinkle some salt and sesame oil and stir-fry.
Transfer the stir-fried peas into a plate and garnish it with toasted sesame seeds.
3. Honey Garlic Chicken Recipe
Honey garlic chicken tastes delicious and can be eaten with rice.
honey garlic chicken
Ingredients
¼ cup garlic, minced
1 cup of soy sauce
1 cup of honey
¼ cup minced ginger
4 boneless chicken thighs
How to Make
Preheat the oven to 200 degree Celsius.
Whisk the honey, garlic, ginger, and soy sauce together until they blend well.
Take the chicken thighs in a bowl and pour the above mixture over the chicken thighs, and let them marinate for an hour or more.
Place them in the oven for about 20 minutes. Flip in between and glaze with the honey-garlic mixture and cook again.
You can eat honey garlic chicken with rice or veggies.
FAQs
1. What If I Eat Too Much Garlic While Pregnant?
Eating garlic can be very beneficial during pregnancy as long as it is consumed in moderation. Eating too much garlic during pregnancy may irritate your digestive tract and upset your stomach. Excess garlic may even lead to some other serious issues like low blood pressure, blood thinning, etc. It is advised that you consume no more than 2 to 3 cloves of garlic daily to avoid any complications. In case you notice any signs of complications, it is best to reach out to your doctor immediately.
2. What If I Eat Raw Garlic on an Empty Stomach?
Eating raw garlic on an empty stomach causes no problems. In fact, it is known to help lower blood pressure and reduce the risk of catching colds or infections.
Garlic is an age-old remedy for many health conditions. It proves to be beneficial even during pregnancy, however, only when consumed in limited amounts. You are advised to discuss with your doctor about the benefits and side effects of consuming garlic during pregnancy before you make it a part of your diet.
The bottom line
If you’re pregnant, it’s best to be careful about the foods and supplements you consume.
The amount of garlic used in foods for flavoring has not been shown to be unsafe in those who are pregnant.
On the other hand, some studies suggest that high supplemental doses might increase the risk of bleeding. This could be problematic, especially during delivery.
Ultimately, there’s a lack of research regarding the safety and benefits of consuming garlic — both in large dietary quantities and in supplement form — in those who are pregnant.
If you have questions about taking garlic while pregnant, talk with your doctor. They’ll be able to determine if this supplement is right and safe for you.
All that being said, if you enjoy the occasional spaghetti aglio e olio, garlic bread, or other garlic-laden dish, it’s likely safe to eat in moderation, whether you’re pregnant or not.
Shocking Side-Effects of Garlic: Garlic is one of the staple herbs grown and used all across the country. Its pungent smell and distinct taste that make it a special ingredient in meals being cooked in Indian households. While it is believed to have medicinal properties, especially during the cold season or if you have caught a flu, but it’s important to understand when not to have it. Each body is different and there are people who have been diagnosed with allergies due to having garlic in access. The allergies from eating garlic can range from having skin infections to have severe burning sensations in the intestine and chest.Also Read - Olympic Gold Medalist Neeraj Chopra's Fitness Journey Is Beyond Incredible, His Transformation Will Inspire You; Watch Video
Garlic produces a chemical called allicin which is also the reason behind its strong smell. While eating garlic is advisable in treating diabetes, cholesterol issues, high blood pressure, and also in prostate cancer, however, several reports have suggested that people have experienced a burning sensation in the mouth or stomach, heartburn, nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea after eating garlic cloves. These side-effects have more commonly been seen in pregnant women. Also Read - Fed Up Of White Vaginal Discharge? Try These Effective Ayurvedic Treatments Today; Watch Video
Eating garlic during pregnancy: Following a healthy diet during pregnancy can prove beneficial for both the baby and the woman. Pregnant women need to have an overall healthy diet, high in fruit and vegetables and low in refined carbohydrates and red and processed meats. During pregnancy, women need to take utmost precautions and care for the little ones growing inside them. Pregnancy is a beautiful phase of every woman’s life. Before your bundle of joy arrives, you are responsible for helping them grow in a healthy and nurturing environment. Also Read - Should We Consider Omicron Variant As A Mild Virus? Know What Expert Has To Say; Watch Video
There are many dos and don’ts for expecting mothers. The most confusing one is whether to eat garlic during pregnancy or not. Although, garlic has medicinal properties as it has antibacterial and antiseptic properties. But there are many people who avoid eating garlic. Here, we tell you if it’s safe or not.
Shocking Side-Effects of Garlic | Is Consuming Lahsun Dangerous During Pregnancy?
Shocking Side-Effects of Garlic | Is Consuming Lahsun Dangerous During Pregnancy?
Garlic has antifungal and antibacterial properties and is rich in manganese, potassium, iron, calcium, and vitamin C. Many people have added garlic to their diet as it has anti-viral properties. It contains allicin- a therapeutic agent because of which it gets its pungent smell. But can the medicinal properties of garlic help fight diseases among expecting mothers?
by TaboolaSponsored LinksYou May Like
Tipp: Hausmittel bei dünnem Haar
Apotheken Gesundheit
Anti-Aging wie die Stars. Das ist der neue Trend aus Hollywood.
starsflash
According to the Times of India, it is safe to consume garlic during pregnancy but you must have it during the first quarter of your pregnancy. During the first trimester, it is said to be beneficial but in the second and third trimester, it is recommended to reduce the quantity. It is best to consult a gynecologist before you add this herb in your regular diet after the first trimester of your pregnancy.
How much garlic can you eat during pregnancy?
TOI report suggests that expecting mothers can consume 2-4 buds of garlic. And if you want to have it as juice then that is equivalent to 600 to 1,200 mg. It is advisable to avoid having raw garlic, it can be harmful to pregnant women. It contains blood-thinning properties which can affect blood pressure, avoid going overboard with garlic. Due to its pungent taste and smell, it can be unappetizing for some pregnant women and can even make them nauseous.
Garlic is an excellent immunity booster, and it is not unsafe for expecting mothers. It is best to practice moderation instead of avoiding the herb altogether.
The gastronomic desires of a woman in that period when she is pregnant are peculiar. Sometimes she wants something that, in her normal state, will not even come to mind. Sometimes they want to try yogurt in combination with pickled cucumbers. And some ladies terribly want to eat garlic. Many of them are very cautious about this product, because when they talk in forums, they read a lot of bad reviews about this product. In part, this is some truth in the statements there. Despite the benefits of garlic, pregnant women should not use it.
Garlic during pregnancy
3 Causes of Early Miscarriage - How To Avoid Unwanted Health Issue | Stay Fit
Harm of garlic for a pregnant woman
When a woman is pregnant, she, more than ever, should take full responsibility for her diet. It is necessary to do everything possible so as not to harm the unborn child.There will be nothing terrible if the expectant mother begins to use one clove of garlic per day. This fully applies to the marinated product. But, if there is no special need for it, the girl simply does not want it, then it is better to refuse this product altogether. So it will be safer and quieter for the woman herself.
Habit - the second nature, so says the famous wisdom. If a woman is accustomed to the daily intake of garlic, then it is still necessary to refuse it gradually. In the third trimester, it should be completely excluded from the diet. Special attention to this circumstance should be paid to women who have an individual intolerance to this product. If nosebleeds often occur, then garlic should be completely eliminated from its diet.
The use of this product may cause the development of allergic reactions and colic in the abdominal cavity. If a woman still uses garlic, it is better if it enters the body not in its pure form, but as part of various dishes. As an example, some recipes.
dill during pregnancy
Garlic benefits
It is confirmed by scientific data, and you cannot argue with science, as you know. Introduction to the diet of garlic is associated with a number of positive points:
It will regulate peripheral arterial pressure. For pregnant women, this circumstance is extremely important, since for many women at this time the pressure often rises.
Garlic has antibacterial properties. It is qualitatively different from antibiotic drugs. It does not disturb the balance of the intestinal microbial flora. Vitamin composition of the product can have a positive effect on the body. There are many different active substances in garlic, which are useful not only for the mother, but also for the fetus.
Aplicin, contained in garlic, leads to the strengthening of small blood vessels. It helps to stimulate blood circulation. As a result, the nutrition of the fetus is enhanced and improved.
Some substances contained in this product can stimulate the production of insulin, which is involved in carbohydrate metabolism.
Opinion of experts
Some experts do not advise women to eat this product when they are pregnant. They explain this with the following reasons:
The abundance of the active components contained in the product can act as provocateurs for the occurrence of allergic reactions. Allergy appears even if it did not exist before. Discussions on this issue have not abated until now. There is no consensus on this. Some believe that it is possible to use garlic, others categorically deny this possibility, considering that the baby is able to acquire a tendency to allergies.
Frequent use of garlic adversely affects the condition of the digestive tract. Pregnant women often have heartburn. From the use of garlic, it can increase.
Garlic contains various active ingredients that can lead to an increase in uterine tone.
Garlic thins the blood. This factor is undesirable if there are uterine bleeding.
Garlic affects the taste of breast milk, making it bitter. In this regard, the child may reluctantly take the breast.
horseradish during pregnancy
How much garlic can I eat?
Pregnant women with this product must be extremely careful. If you eat a small clove of garlic a day, then there will be no harm.It is quite another thing when a woman consumes it too much. It will not lead to anything good. Anything can be expected, including the development of ulcerative processes in the digestive tract, not to mention heartburn.
How much can I eat garlic?
It is better to abandon the use of garlic whole. You can enter it into the composition of dishes or rub them with a crust of bread. This method of use is associated with greater safety.
Recipes
Carrot Casserole with Garlic
Algorithm of actions:
The oven is heated to a temperature of average values.
In the pan, boil one potato and carrots in the amount of 8 pieces.
Boiled vegetables must be grated.
Beat eggs in the amount of 5 pieces and add to the resulting mass. There is also added flour in the amount of 4 spoons and garlic in the amount of three cloves, which should be chopped.
Salt and pepper are added to taste, while not forgetting the status quo in which the woman is located.
Portions are formed from the prepared composition and are placed on a pan, previously sprinkled with semolina.
The exposure is 45 minutes.
Gooseberry berries, dill and garlic
It will take half a kilogram of gooseberry.The berries are crushed with a blender. To the resulting mass is added chopped dill and garlic, which are taken in equal volumes of 250 g. Everything is thoroughly mixed. Seasoning is decomposed into banks and stored in the refrigerator. It will be a great addition to meat.
Curd-garlic sauce
For its preparation will require:
fat cottage cheese - 250 g;
yogurt - 1 cup;
chopped garlic in the amount of 4 cloves.
Salt and pepper are added according to taste preferences. Optionally, you can add sugar or green onions.
parsley during pregnancy
The role of garlic in the prevention of colds
Garlic contains substances that can fight bacteria and viruses. About these properties is known for a long time. Garlic plays the role of a natural immunomodulator. Hence the conclusion: garlic in small quantities will serve as a good prevention of colds. There is no need to saturate your body with chemistry in the form of synthetic drugs. If you use 1-2 cloves of garlic a week, there will be no harm, but it is quite possible to provide support to the body in preventing colds.
The role of garlic in the prevention of colds
You can simply spread the garlic on the saucers, which should be evenly distributed throughout the apartment.
प्रेगनेंसी के कौन से Trimester में लहसुन नही खाना चाहिए | Eating Garlic during Pregnancy in Hindi
First trimester of pregnancy
At this time, you can safely eat 1-2 cloves of garlic a day. Of course, we are not talking about the presence of contraindications to its use. The product will fill the body with vitamins and minerals, and destroy the bacteria that happened to be in the body. In this case, you can be absolutely sure about the state of immunity. He will be at the proper level. The use of garlic can prevent many colds.
Second trimester
It is necessary to use garlic at this time already more carefully. The fact is that together with its use uterine activity is stimulated and blood flow is activated. If you eat a small amount of garlic, it will not bring harm, but it is better to refuse to conduct various experiments.
Third Trimester Pregnancy and Completion
The closer the term of childbirth becomes, the higher the risk of various complications in the use of garlic. At 7 months it is better to forget about this product. Garlic significantly enhances uterine activity and at the very end of pregnancy can provoke premature labor.
In addition, the product is able to thin the blood, and the use of garlic immediately before birth can cause it to provoke strong uterine bleeding. But at the beginning of pregnancy, it is not only possible to use garlic, but it is also useful for the expectant mother. This fully applies to her child, since the future mom should now take care of not only her health, but also the condition of her future baby.
Trying to conceive
Garlic is one of the food that you should take when you are trying to conceive.
Garlic can help to improve the health of the cervical mucus which can help women to get pregnant faster.
Garlic is rich in vitamin C and B6, which are important for hormone regulation. More importantly, garlic contains high amounts of selenium
During Pregnancy
It is healthy for expecting mothers to eat garlic during pregnancy.
For pregnant women, garlic can help improve blood circulation, lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels. Garlic could potentially reduce fatigue during pregnancy, as well as destroy harmful bacteria, fungi and viruses.
Garlic could also help in treating vaginal infections, including yeast hypersensitivity syndrome and chronic candidiasis.
Furthermore, garlic contains a high amount of allicin which can help to prevent hair loss. Allicin in garlic can also help to reduce cholesterol and blood pressure and therefore can prevent heart attack.
Last, garlic can help to prevent the common cold and infection.
During Confinement
First, garlic has been used as a herbal treatment to stimulate breast milk production and it has been found to be able to increase breast milk supply. This is very beneficial beneficial if new mothers are breastfeeding.
Garlic has many health benefits. It is good for digestive tract and heart health. It is also being used to treat bacterial and viral infection.
Many new mothers have been advised to avoid garlic during breastfeeding. This is mainly because the garlic can change the smell and taste of the breast milk. Some babies may not like the taste and will become fussy and irritated by it. So if you are breastfeeding, you will need to see how your baby react to the new taste. If he or she does not like it, you may want to stop consumption of garlic.
During Breastfeeding
First, garlic has been used as a herbal treatment to stimulate breast milk production and it has been found to be able to increase supply of breast milk.
Garlic has many health benefits. It is good for digestive tract and heart health. It is also being used to treat bacterial and viral infection.
Many new mothers have been advised to avoid garlic during breastfeeding. This is mainly because the garlic can change the smell and taste of the breast milk. Some babies may not like the taste and will become fussy and irritated by it. If that happens to your baby, you may have to avoid garlic.
Four Months to Six Months Old Baby
As garlic has a strong flavor, you may want to wait for some time if your baby does not like this strong flavor.
If your baby does not show any irritation over the smell, you can consider introducing this vegetable to her when she turns 6 months or 8 months old.
You should only give a small amount to the baby during first attempt and gradually increase the intake if he or she does not show any allergy.
Seven Months to Nine Months Old Baby
As garlic has a strong flavor, you may want to wait for some time if your baby does not like this strong flavor.
You should only give a small amount to the baby during first attempt and gradually increase the intake if he or she does not show any allergy.
There are many health benefits of eating garlic. Garlic contains allicin which has both anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties, this can help to protect the body from infection and cold.
Garlic also contains a range of useful nutrients, including vitaminc C, vitamin B6 and B1, manganese, selenium, potassium and iron.
Garlic is also beneficial to the heart, it helps to lower cholesterol level and reduce the risk of high blood pressure and heart attack.
Ten Months to Twelve Months Old Baby
As garlic has a strong flavor, you may want to wait for some time if your baby does not like this strong flavor.
You should only give a small amount to the baby during first attempt and gradually increase the intake if he or she does not show any allergy.
There are many health benefits of eating garlic. Garlic contains allicin which has both anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties, this can help to protect the body from infection and cold.
Garlic also contains a range of useful nutrients, including vitaminc C, vitamin B6 and B1, manganese, selenium, potassium and iron.
Garlic is also beneficial to the heart, it helps to lower cholesterol level and reduce the risk of high blood pressure and heart attack.
One Year Old and Above Baby
As garlic has a strong flavor, you may want to wait for some time if your baby does not like this strong flavor.
You should only give a small amount to the baby during first attempt and gradually increase the intake if he or she does not show any allergy.
क्या आप प्रेगनेंसी के दौरान लहसुन खाते हैं ? Garlic in pregnancy
There are many health benefits of eating garlic. Garlic contains allicin which has both anti-bacterial and anti-viral properties, this can help to protect the body from infection and cold.
Garlic also contains a range of useful nutrients, including vitaminc C, vitamin B6 and B1, manganese, selenium, potassium and iron.
Garlic is also beneficial to the heart, it helps to lower cholesterol level and reduce the risk of high blood pressure and heart attack.
The suggestion that garlic may lower blood pressure, inhibit platelet aggregation, and reduce oxidative stress has led to the hypothesis that it may have a role in preventing pre‐eclampsia and its complications.
Objectives
To assess the effects of garlic on prevention of pre‐eclampsia and its complications.
Search methods
We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's Trials Register (January 2010).
Selection criteria
Studies were included if they were randomised trials evaluating the effects of garlic on prevention of pre‐eclampsia and its complications.
Data collection and analysis
Two review authors independently selected trials for inclusion and extracted data. Data were entered on Review Manager software for analysis, and double checked for accuracy.
Main results
One trial (100 women) of uncertain quality compared garlic with placebo. Another study was excluded as 29% of women were lost to follow up. There was no clear difference between the garlic and control groups in the risk of developing gestational hypertension (relative risk (RR) 0.50, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.25 to 1.00) or pre‐eclampsia (RR 0.78, 95% CI 0.31 to 1.93). Women allocated garlic were more likely to report odour than those allocated placebo (RR 8.50, 95% CI 2.07 to 34.88), but there were no significant differences in other reported side‐effects. The only other outcomes reported were caesarean section (RR 1.35, 95% CI 0.93 to 1.95), and perinatal mortality. There were no perinatal deaths in the study.
Authors' conclusions
There is insufficient evidence to recommend increased garlic intake for preventing pre‐eclampsia and its complications. Although garlic is associated with odour, other more serious side‐effects have not been reported. Further large randomised trials evaluating the effects of garlic are needed before any recommendations can be made to guide clinical practice.
Keywords: Female, Humans, Pregnancy, Garlic, Phytotherapy, Phytotherapy/adverse effects, Odorants, Pre‐Eclampsia, Pre‐Eclampsia/prevention & control, Randomized Controlled Trials as Topic
Go to:
Garlic for preventing pre‐eclampsia and its complications
Insufficient evidence to say if taking garlic can help to reduce the risk of pre‐eclampsia and its complications for pregnant women and their babies.
Pre‐eclampsia is a serious complication of pregnancy occurring in about 2% to 8% of women. It is identified by increased blood pressure and protein in the urine, but women often suffer no symptoms initially. It can, through constriction of the blood vessels in the placenta, interfere with food and oxygen passing to the baby, thus inhibiting the baby's growth and causing the baby to be born too soon. Women can be affected through problems in their kidneys, liver, brain, and clotting system. Garlic may lower blood pressure (one of the problems with pre‐eclampsia) and so may have a role in helping to reduce the risk of pre‐eclampsia. The review of trials found just one study of 100 women which showed no differences between dried garlic tablets and dummy tablets. However, the study was small and there are many varying forms of garlic, some with odour and some without, fresh cloves, powdered garlic, garlic capsules etc., and there may be differences between these preparations. Further trials are needed to assess any possible effect of garlic on pre‐eclampsia and to assess any potential adverse effects.
Go to:
Background
Hypertension (high blood pressure) is common during pregnancy. Around 10% of women will have raised blood pressure at some point before delivery. The hypertensive disorders of pregnancy comprise a spectrum of conditions that is usually classified into four categories: (i) gestational hypertension, a rise in blood pressure during the second half of pregnancy; (ii) pre‐eclampsia, usually hypertension with proteinuria (protein in urine) during the second half of pregnancy; (iii) chronic hypertension, a rise in blood pressure prior to pregnancy or before 20 weeks' gestation, and (iv) pre‐eclampsia superimposed on chronic hypertension (NHBPEP 2000). For women with uncomplicated mild to moderate hypertension, pregnancy outcome is similar to that for women with normal blood pressure. Outcome deteriorates if the blood pressure is very high, or if pre‐eclampsia develops. Pre‐eclampsia is a multisystem disorder involving the liver, kidneys, brain, and placenta. It affects 2% to 8% of pregnancies (WHO 1988), and is associated with a substantive increase in morbidity and mortality for both the woman and her baby (DH 2002). Complications for the mother may include eclampsia (seizures), stroke, liver or kidney failure, and abnormal blood clotting, and problems for the baby include poor growth and preterm birth.
The cause of pre‐eclampsia is uncertain. Current belief is that reduced blood supply to the placenta leads to abnormal function of endothelial cells that line the woman's blood vessels, possibly as a result of oxidative stress (oxidative damage to cells caused by increased reactive oxygen species and lipid peroxides). Endothelial cell dysfunction results in generalised vasoconstriction, platelet activation and thrombosis, and decreased plasma volume, with subsequent reduction of blood supply to multiple organs. Pre‐eclampsia is discussed in more detail in the generic protocol for this review (Generic Protocol 05).
Garlic (Allium sativum) is part of the Allium, or onion, family. A hardy perennial herb, it probably originated in central Asia. Garlic is the most pungent of all the alliums, and has been widely used in many cultures for both medicinal and culinary purposes. It is also one of the most ancient herbs, recorded in Babylonian times (circa 3000 BC), found in the tomb of Tutankhamen, consumed in large quantities by the ancient Greeks and Romans, and used in both traditional Chinese and Ayurvedic medicines. There are also many superstitions related to garlic, such as that it wards off evil spirits and vampires, or that chewing it will prevent competitors from getting ahead in races. The traditional medicinal uses of garlic include prevention of infection and treatment of colds, influenza, bronchitis, whooping cough, gastroenteritis, dysentery and skin problems.
Garlic's main active ingredient is thought to be allicin, a strong smelling sulphide. When raw garlic cloves are crushed or chewed, allicin is formed from garlic's main sulphur compound, alliin, by the action of enzyme alliinase. Although other constituents of garlic have been shown to be biologically active, the importance of different constituents in explaining health benefits of garlic is unclear (Amagase 2001).
More recently, it has been suggested that garlic may have lipid lowering properties (Silagy 1994b; Stevinson 2000; Warshafsky 1993) which may be beneficial for the treatment of arteriosclerosis and diabetes, and for prevention of myocardial infarction. There is also some evidence that certain garlic preparations also inhibit lipid oxidation (Ide 1997; Lau 2001) and may thus prevent development of oxidative stress (Borek 2001). A meta‐analysis of eight trials (415 participants) reported reductions in both systolic and diastolic blood pressure associated with garlic treatment in the form of dried powder (Silagy 1994a). Later trials failed to confirm these effects, however, and a subsequent systematic review reported no significant effect of garlic on blood pressure (AHRQ 2000). Possible explanations for the more positive results seen in earlier studies are that recent trials may have used garlic preparations with poor delivery of garlic's active ingredient (Lawson 2001), or publication bias with failure to publish early negative studies, or the poor concealment of allocation in early studies may have led to overestimates of the effects of garlic (Silagy 1994a). Experimental studies have demonstrated that garlic inhibits platelet aggregation (Ali 1999), and may also increase the production of nitric oxide (Das 1995), which is itself a platelet inhibitor and vasodilator.
The suggestions that garlic may lower blood pressure, reduce oxidative stress or inhibit platelet aggregation, or both, have led to the hypothesis that garlic may have a role in prevention of pre‐eclampsia.
Many commercial preparations of garlic are available, falling into one of the following four categories: dehydrated garlic powder, garlic oil, garlic oil macerate, and aged garlic extract (Amagase 2001). These are available as a syrup, tablets, or capsules. As garlic's active compound allicin is unstable, and its formation depends on the presence of alliin and alliinase, commercial preparations must be prepared with considerable care. Processing of garlic may eliminate allicin or alliin, and decrease alliinase activity substantially. Moreover, stomach acid may also destroy alliinase, and digestion may be unpredictable despite the use of protective coatings (Lawson 2001). The bioavailability of allicin therefore remains uncertain. There are no recommendations for standard intake of garlic. In early studies that used raw garlic, the dosage required to obtain health benefits was relatively high, ranging from 7 to 28 cloves per day. In more recent studies that have used commercial preparations of garlic, the daily dosage has ranged from 600 mg to 1000 mg.
Garlic is generally well tolerated. In some communities, the breath and body odour may make it less acceptable. Other side‐effects include minor gastrointestinal disturbances such as nausea and diarrhoea, and allergic reactions. Several reports suggest that there may be an increased tendency to bleed with concurrent use of anticoagulants (AHRQ 2000).
The purpose of this review was to assess the effects of garlic therapy for preventing pre‐eclampsia and its complications.
Go to:
Objectives
To assess the effects of garlic on prevention of pre‐eclampsia and its complications.
Go to:
Methods
Criteria for considering studies for this review
Types of studies
Randomised trials evaluating the effects of garlic on prevention of pre‐eclampsia were included. Trials with quasi‐random design were excluded.
A MUST WATCH!!!! Avoid These Foods If You Are Or Ever Get Pregnant // 22 Miscarriage Causing Foods
Types of participants
Pregnant women were included, regardless of gestation at trial entry. Whenever possible and relevant, women were grouped on the basis of their risk of developing pre‐eclampsia at trial entry as follows.
(1) Normotensive women
(a) High risk: defined as having one or more of the following: diabetes, renal disease, thrombophilia, autoimmune disease, previous severe or early onset pre‐eclampsia, or multiple pregnancy. (b) Moderate risk: defined as none of the above, but having either previous pre‐eclampsia that was not severe or early onset (or severity unspecified), or a first pregnancy and at least one of the following: teenager or over 35 years age, family history of pre‐eclampsia, obesity (body mass index of 30 or more), increased sensitivity to Angiotensin II, positive roll‐over test, abnormal uterine artery doppler scan. (c) Low risk: defined as pregnancy that does not qualify as either high or moderate risk. (d) Undefined risk: when the risk is unclear or not specified.
(2) Hypertensive women, without proteinuria
These women are all at high risk of developing pre‐eclampsia. They fall into two groups. (a) Gestational hypertension: hypertension detected for the first time after 20 weeks' gestation, in the absence of proteinuria. (b) Chronic hypertension: essential or secondary hypertension detected prior to pregnancy or before 20 weeks' gestation. Some women with chronic hypertension may have longstanding proteinuria due to their underlying disease. We planned to include these women as their proteinuria is not due to pre‐eclampsia.
(3) Undefined
When it is unclear, or not specified, whether or not the women have hypertension.
Women were excluded if they had established pre‐eclampsia.
If a trial included women with pre‐eclampsia as well as those with hypertension alone (gestational or chronic), where possible, we planned to include only the women with hypertension alone in the review. For trials that did not report results separately for the two categories, we planned to include them in the review, but present them as a separate subgroup. However, we did not find any such trials.
Types of interventions
The following comparisons were included:
garlic versus placebo or no intervention; and
garlic versus any other intervention for prevention of pre‐eclampsia, where appropriate.
All types of garlic preparation were included. All dosage regimens and routes of delivery were included. Studies were excluded if the intended duration of therapy at trial entry was less than seven days. This cut off was taken because it is unlikely that such short therapy could influence pregnancy outcomes, based on what is known of the pathophysiology of pre‐eclampsia.
Types of outcome measures
The following outcomes were included. The definitions used for each outcome are summarised below. Trials that used acceptable variations of these definitions, or that did not define their outcomes were still included, and definitions, where available, were described in the table 'Characteristics of included studies'. If an important outcome was not reported, we attempted to contact authors.
For the woman
Main outcome
(1) Pre‐eclampsia: defined as hypertension (blood pressure at least 140 mmHg systolic or 90 mmHg diastolic) with proteinuria (at least 300 mg protein in a 24 hour urine collection or 30 mg/dL in a single sample or 1+ on dipstick or 30 mg/mmol urine protein/creatinine ratio). For a woman with chronic hypertension and proteinuria at trial entry, pre‐eclampsia is defined as sudden worsening of proteinuria or hypertension, or both, or other signs and symptoms of pre‐eclampsia after 20 weeks' gestation.
Other outcomes
(2) Death during pregnancy or up to 42 days after end of pregnancy. (3) Severe morbidity including eclampsia, liver or renal failure, haemolysis elevated liver enzymes and low platelets syndrome, disseminated intravascular coagulation, stroke and pulmonary oedema. These outcomes will be reported individually, and as a composite measure where the information is available. (4) Severe pre‐eclampsia: pre‐eclampsia with features of severe disease such as severe hypertension, severe proteinuria, reduced urinary volume, visual disturbances, upper abdominal pain, pulmonary oedema, impaired liver and renal function tests, low platelets, intrauterine growth restriction or reduced liquor volume (for full definition, seeGeneric Protocol 05). (5) Early onset of pre‐eclampsia, at or before 33 completed weeks. (6) Severe hypertension: blood pressure at least 160 mmHg systolic or 110 mmHg diastolic. (7) Gestational hypertension: blood pressure at least 140 mmHg systolic or 90 mmHg diastolic after 20 weeks' gestation. (8) Use of antihypertensive drugs or need for additional antihypertensive drugs. (9) Abruption of the placenta or antepartum haemorrhage. (10) Elective delivery: induction of labour or caesarean section. (11) Caesarean section: emergency and elective. (12) Postpartum haemorrhage: blood loss of 500 ml or more. (13) Side‐effects such as odour, gastrointestinal disturbances, and bleeding; garlic stopped due to side‐effects. (14) Use of health resources: visit to day care unit, antenatal hospital admission, intensive care (admission to intensive care unit, length of stay, ventilation, dialysis). (15) Women's experiences and views of garlic.
For the child
Main outcomes
(1) Death: including all deaths before birth and up to discharge from hospital. (2) Preterm birth: birth at or before 37 completed weeks' gestation. (3) Small‐for‐gestational age: growth below the 3rd centile, or lowest centile reported.
Other outcomes
(4) Apgar score at five minutes: low (less than seven) and very low (less than four) or lowest reported. (5) Endotracheal intubation or use of mechanical ventilation. (6) Neonatal morbidity: respiratory distress syndrome, chronic lung disease, sepsis, necrotizing enterocolitis, retinopathy of prematurity, and intraventricular haemorrhage. (7) Long‐term growth and development: blindness, deafness, seizures, poor growth, neurodevelopmental delay and cerebral palsy. (8) Side‐effects associated with garlic. (9) Use of hospital resources: admission to neonatal intensive care unit, duration of hospital stay after delivery.
Economic outcomes
Costs to health service resources: short term and long term for both mother and baby.
Costs to the woman, her family, and society associated with exercise.
Search methods for identification of studies
Electronic searches
We searched the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group’s Trials Register by contacting the Trials Search Co‐ordinator (January 2010).
The Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group’s Trials Register is maintained by the Trials Search Co‐ordinator and contains trials identified from:
quarterly searches of the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (CENTRAL);
weekly searches of MEDLINE;
handsearches of 30 journals and the proceedings of major conferences;
weekly current awareness alerts for a further 44 journals plus monthly BioMed Central email alerts.
Details of the search strategies for CENTRAL and MEDLINE, the list of handsearched journals and conference proceedings, and the list of journals reviewed via the current awareness service can be found in the ‘Specialized Register’ section within the editorial information about the Cochrane Pregnancy and Childbirth Group.
Trials identified through the searching activities described above are each assigned to a review topic (or topics). The Trials Search Co‐ordinator searches the register for each review using the topic list rather than keywords.
For details of the additional searching we undertook for the initial version of the review, seeAppendix 1.
Searching other resources
When possible, we also contacted experts and trialists in this field through personal communications.
We did not apply any language restrictions.
Data collection and analysis
Selection of studies
Both review authors independently assessed potentially eligible studies for inclusion. We resolved any differences in opinion by discussion.
Assessment of study quality
Two review authors independently assessed the quality of each trial using the criteria outlined in the Cochrane Reviewers' Handbook (Clarke 2003). Methods used for generation of the randomisation sequence are described for each trial, wherever possible. Each study was assessed for quality of concealment of allocation, completeness of follow up, and blinding. If important data were missing, we contacted trialists when possible to obtain additional information.
(1) Allocation concealment
A quality score for concealment of allocation was assigned to each trial, using the following criteria: (A) adequate concealment of allocation, such as telephone randomisation, consecutively numbered sealed opaque envelopes; (B) unclear whether concealment of allocation was adequate; (C) inadequate concealment of allocation such as open random number tables, sealed envelopes that were not numbered and opaque.
(2) Completeness of follow up
Completeness of follow up was assessed using the following criteria: (A) less than 5% of participants excluded from analysis; (B) 5% to 10% of participants excluded from analysis; (C) more than 10% and up to and including 20% of participants excluded from analysis.
Studies were excluded if:
more than 20% of participants were excluded from analysis.
more than 10% of participants were not analysed in their randomised groups and it was not possible to restore participants to the correct group.
there was more than 10% difference in loss of participants between groups.
Data were analysed based on the group to which the participants were randomised, regardless of whether or not they received the allocated intervention. If data were missing, whenever possible, we sought clarification from the authors.
(3) Blinding
Blinding was assessed using the following criteria:
blinding of participants (yes/no/unclear or unspecified);
blinding of caregiver (yes/no/unclear or unspecified);
blinding of outcome assessment (yes/no/unclear or unspecified).
Data extraction and data entry
Both review authors independently extracted data, entered it onto the Review Manager software (RevMan 2003), and double checked it for accuracy.
How to prevent future pregnancy loss and miscarriage
Statistical analyses
Statistical analyses were carried out using Review Manager (RevMan 2003). Results are presented as summary relative risk with 95% confidence intervals. At present, only one trial is included, but when sufficient data become available, we will assess heterogeneity between trials using the I‐squared statistic. In the absence of significant heterogeneity, results will be pooled using a fixed‐effect model. If substantial heterogeneity is detected (I‐squared more than 50%), we will explore possible causes and perform subgroup analyses for the main outcomes. Heterogeneity that is not explained by subgroup analyses may be modelled using random‐effects analysis, if appropriate.
Sensitivity analyses
We planned to undertake a sensitivity analysis to explore the effects of trial quality based on concealment of allocation, by excluding studies with clearly inadequate allocation concealment (rated C). This analysis has not been done due to insufficient data.
Subgroup analyses
We planned to do subgroup analyses for the main outcomes by:
risk of women at trial entry: high, moderate, low, or unspecified;
preparations of garlic: fresh, different commercial preparations, unspecified.
This analysis has not been done due to insufficient data, but will be performed when more data become available.
Go to:
Results
Description of studies
This review includes one study with 100 primigravid women at 28 to 32 weeks. The participants were women at moderate risk of pre‐eclampsia, as determined by a positive roll‐over test. This test is positive when there is a rise in diastolic blood pressure of at least 20 mmHg between two blood pressure readings, the first taken with the woman lying on her left side, the second taken with her in the supine position. The study was conducted in Iran. Details of the study can be found in the 'Characteristics of included studies' table.
One study was excluded because 29% of women were excluded from the analysis (Mose 2000).
Risk of bias in included studies
The one included study was of uncertain methodological quality as there was no information on the exact methods used for allocation generation or concealment. Follow up was reported for all women. A placebo was used for blinding of participants, although garlic odour was reported by one third of the women in the active group. There was no blinding of caregivers or outcome assessment.
Effects of interventions
Comparison: garlic versus placebo
There was no clear difference between the garlic and control groups in the relative risk (RR) of gestational hypertension (one trial, 100 women; RR 0.50, 95% confidence interval (CI) 0.25 to 1.00) or pre‐eclampsia (RR 0.78, 95% CI 0.31 to 1.93).
Women allocated garlic were more likely to report odour than those allocated placebo (RR 8.50, 95% CI 2.07 to 34.88), but there was no clear difference in other reported side‐effects.
The only other outcomes reported were caesarean section (RR 1.35, 95% CI 0.93 to 1.95), and perinatal mortality. There were no perinatal deaths in the study.
Go to:
Discussion
The aim of this review was to assess the effects of garlic for prevention of pre‐eclampsia and its complications. As only one trial with 100 women was identified for inclusion in the review, there is insufficient evidence for any reliable conclusions about the potential benefits or harms of garlic.
A potential methodological problem for future studies is the issue of how to adequately blind participants. In the Iranian study reported here, garlic was given in tablet form, and the tablets were claimed to be 'odour controlled'. Nevertheless, one third of women taking the active treatment reported odours, compared to only 4% on placebo. Such odours may be acceptable in communities with a high dietary intake of garlic, but may be unacceptable where garlic intake is lower. Moreover, pregnant women may be particularly sensitive to odour, which may influence compliance with the intervention in communities with low dietary intake.
Another problem with research into the effects of garlic is assessing the bioavailability of active constituents after ingestion. It has been recommended that commercial garlic preparations should be systematically tested for their ability to release allicin (Lawson 2001). It was not reported whether the garlic preparation used for the trial in this review was tested.
Go to:
Authors' conclusions
There is insufficient evidence to recommend increased garlic intake for preventing pre‐eclampsia and its complications.
Garlic is a common constituent of food, especially in some parts of the world. There are reasonable theoretical grounds for suggesting garlic may help prevent pre‐eclampsia and its complications. Although garlic is associated with odour, other more serious side‐effects have not been reported. Further randomised trials to evaluate the effects of garlic for prevention of pre‐eclampsia are justified, particularly in parts of the world where garlic intake is common. For reliable conclusions any such trials should be large. If garlic products are used, it is important to determine the amount of main constituents released in various garlic preparations. Further research is needed to clarify if potential health benefits are specific to particular preparations, constituents, or doses.
Go to:
Acknowledgements
Our thanks to Dr JC Mose for providing us with unpublished data for his trial (Mose 2000).
As part of the pre‐publication editorial process, this review has been commented on by three peers (an editor and two referees who are external to the editorial team), one or more members of the Pregnancy and Childbirth Group's international panel of consumers and the Group's Statistical Adviser.
Go to:
Appendices
Go to:
Appendix 1. Additional searching for initial version of review
Sources searched Search strategy
The Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (The Cochrane Library 2005, Issue 2) and EMBASE (1974 to April 2005). We used combinations of the term 'garlic', 'allium sativum', 'alliin', 'allicin', and 'alliinase' with the CENTRAL and EMBASE search strategies listed in the generic protocol (see 'Generic Protocol 05' in 'Additional references' ).
Go to:
Notes
New search for studies and content updated (no change to conclusions)
Go to:
Data and analyses
Comparison 1
Garlic versus placebo/no intervention
Outcome or subgroup title No. of studies No. of participants Statistical method Effect size
1 Pre‐eclampsia
An external file that holds a picture, illustration, etc.
Object name is nCD006065-CMP-001-01.jpg
Analysis 1.1
Comparison 1 Garlic versus placebo/no intervention, Outcome 1 Pre‐eclampsia.
1 100 Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI) 0.78 [0.31, 1.93]
2 Gestational hypertension
An external file that holds a picture, illustration, etc.
Object name is nCD006065-CMP-001-02.jpg
Analysis 1.2
Comparison 1 Garlic versus placebo/no intervention, Outcome 2 Gestational hypertension.
Miscarriage at 11 Weeks | My Story
1 100 Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI) 0.5 [0.25, 1.00]
3 Caesarean section
An external file that holds a picture, illustration, etc.
Object name is nCD006065-CMP-001-03.jpg
Analysis 1.3
Comparison 1 Garlic versus placebo/no intervention, Outcome 3 Caesarean section.
1 100 Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI) 1.35 [0.93, 1.95]
4 Maternal side‐effects
An external file that holds a picture, illustration, etc.
Object name is nCD006065-CMP-001-04.jpg
Analysis 1.4
Comparison 1 Garlic versus placebo/no intervention, Outcome 4 Maternal side‐effects.
1 Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI) Subtotals only
4.1 Odour 1 100 Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI) 8.5 [2.07, 34.88]
4.2 Nausea 1 100 Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI) 4.0 [0.89, 17.91]
5 Perinatal mortality
An external file that holds a picture, illustration, etc.
Object name is nCD006065-CMP-001-05.jpg
Analysis 1.5
Comparison 1 Garlic versus placebo/no intervention, Outcome 5 Perinatal mortality.
1 100 Risk Ratio (M‐H, Fixed, 95% CI) 0.0 [0.0, 0.0]
Open in a separate window
Go to:
What's new
Last assessed as up‐to‐date: 12 January 2010.
Date Event Description
13 January 2010 New search has been performed Search updated. No new trials found.
Go to:
History
Protocol first published: Issue 2, 2005 Review first published: Issue 3, 2006
Date Event Description
10 November 2008 Amended Edited contact details
12 February 2008 Amended Converted to new review format.
29 October 2007 New search has been performed Seach updated. No new trials found.
6 March 2006 New citation required and conclusions have changed Substantive amendment
Go to:
Characteristics of studies
Go to:
Characteristics of included studies [ordered by study ID]
Iran 2001
Methods Randomisation: 'randomly divided into two groups'. No further information. Allocation concealment: no information. Blinding: only participants blinded. Follow up: no losses to follow up.
Participants 100 primigravid women between 28‐32 weeks' gestation with a positive roll‐over test.
Interventions Garlic: 2 garlic tablets/day ‐ total 800 mg/day (dry powder with 1000 mcg allicin in each tablet) for 8 weeks. Control: 2 placebo tablets of similar size and color for 8 weeks.
Outcomes Women: hypertension, pre‐eclampsia, weight gain (mean), caesarean section, garlic odour, side‐effects, plasma lipid levels, platelet aggregation. Babies: perinatal mortality, gestation at delivery (mean), birthweight (mean), 1 minute Apgar score (mean).
Notes 300 women screened with roll‐over test, 100 with positive test recruited.
Tablets stated to be odour controlled by supplier.
Risk of bias
Bias Authors' judgement Support for judgement
Allocation concealment? Unclear risk B ‐ Unclear
Go to:
Characteristics of excluded studies [ordered by study ID]
Study Reason for exclusion
Mose 2000 20 women (29%) were lost to follow up and so excluded from analysis after randomisation.
Methods: permuted block randomisation. Participants: 70 women with a singleton pregnancy between 26‐36 weeks with normal blood pressure and a positive roll‐over test and MAP > 90 mmHg. Intervention: garlic capsules 1050 mg per day (3 x 350 mg/day) versus placebo for 2 weeks. Outcomes: pre‐eclampsia, changes in blood pressure, pregnancy duration, side‐effects, maternal and fetal morbidity and mortality, platelet count and aggregation.
MAP: mean arterial pressure
Go to:
Contributions of authors
The protocol for this review was based on the Generic Protocol of interventions for prevention pre‐eclampsia and its complications, which was drafted by Shireen Meher and Lelia Duley in consultation with the Prevention of Pre‐eclampsia Review Authors (PPRA). Shireen Meher and Lelia Duley independently assessed trials for inclusion. Shireen Meher extracted data and entered these into Review Manager software, and Lelia Duley double checked for accuracy.
Shireen Meher and Lelia Duley drafted the review.
Go to:
Sources of support
Go to:
Internal sources
The University of Liverpool, UK.
University of Oxford, UK.
Go to:
External sources
Health Technology Assessment, UK.
Medical Research Council, UK.
In addition to being a popular spice throughout the world, garlic has also provided a variety of medicinal benefits for thousands of years. Garlic may help to treat certain health concerns that typically occur during pregnancy, such as poor blood circulation and elevated blood pressure. Before you begin taking garlic while you’re pregnant or breastfeeding, however, consult your doctor to discuss the safe dosage and potential dangers.
Function
Garlic contains the constituent alliin, a sulfurous amino-acid derivative that converts to allicin, the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center explains. Allicin appears to have antibiotic, cholesterol-lowering, blood-thinning and antioxidant effects. Garlic also seems to lower blood pressure and reduce gastric and colorectal cancer risks. Additionally, garlic relaxes the smooth muscles, dilates the blood vessels, stimulates immunity while inhibiting antibody reactions, improves selenium absorption and reduces oxidative stress.
Benefits
For pregnant women, garlic may help improve blood circulation, lower blood pressure and reduce cholesterol levels, Sloan-Kettering reports. Garlic could potentially reduce fatigue during pregnancy, as well as destroy harmful bacteria, fungi and viruses, notes the University of Maryland Medical Center. Garlic’s antimicrobial properties are seen both in topical remedies applied to the skin and oral forms taken by mouth. Garlic could help in treating vaginal infections, including yeast hypersensitivity syndrome and chronic candidiasis, according to the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center. As with any natural remedy or supplement, talk with your physician before using garlic for medicinal purposes during pregnancy or while breastfeeding.
Other Uses
Garlic might also help prevent the common cold and heart disease, the University of Pittsburgh Medical Center explains. Garlic could help treat middle ear infections, athlete’s foot, diabetes and high blood pressure. People with atherosclerosis, cardiovascular disease, high cholesterol, circulatory disorders and skin infections may benefit from using garlic, Sloan-Kettering adds. Garlic has also been used medicinally to get rid of parasites, treat ulcers and prevent or treat cancer, according to the University of Maryland Medical Center. No widely accepted scientific research supports the use of garlic for preventing or treating any health condition, however.
Amounts
In addition to raw crushed or whole garlic cloves, garlic is also available in the form of an aged extract, powder and essential oil, Sloan-Kettering advises. Each form of garlic contains varying amounts of active constituents. For example, garlic essential oil and garlic powder don’t contain allicin, but the powder does contain a small amount of alliin. For garlic’s potential health benefits during pregnancy, consume two to four fresh garlic cloves each day, or take 600 to 1,200 milligrams of aged garlic extract daily, the University of Maryland Medical Center instructs. Alternatively, you could take 0.03 to 0.12 milliliters of garlic essential oil three times per day, 5 milliliters of the fluid extract daily or 20 milliliters of the tincture each day. Garlic supplements often come in the forms of freeze-dried garlic tablets, which you might take at a dosage rate of 400 milligrams three times daily. Ask your doctor about the dosage of garlic that’s right for you while you’re pregnant, because these dosages may be unsafe for your specific health status.
Warning
As a widely consumed natural food and spice, garlic is considered very safe, even during pregnancy. But garlic’s potential blood-thinning effects may cause uncontrolled bleeding during surgery or labor and delivery, warns the University of Maryland Medical Center. You shouldn’t take garlic before, during or after labor and delivery or a Cesarean section. Garlic may also interact negatively with certain medications, such as anticoagulants like Coumadin, insulin, cyclosporine and saquinavir, cautions the Memorial Sloan-Kettering Cancer Center. Garlic could increase your insulin release and lower blood sugar levels, as well as reduce your iodine absorption, which could lead to hypothyroidism, the Mayo Clinic warns. During pregnancy, you shouldn’t take large amounts of garlic that exceed the normal amount of garlic you might consume in your daily diet.
Raw meat and seafood
Is it safe to eat raw meat during pregnancy?
Meat provides the body with the protein necessary for the baby’s growth. It can also help renew and restore tissues. Experts strongly recommend avoiding the consumption of raw meat during pregnancy. If you do eat meat while pregnant, it’s crucial that it’s cooked thoroughly.
Raw meat dishes (for example, rare steaks, carpaccio, salami, or raw ham) can contain harmful bacteria and pose a danger to the pregnant person and the baby. Raw meat should be avoided during pregnancy.
Is raw fish safe during pregnancy?
Fish is a source of protein and an excellent supplier of omega-3 fatty acids, zinc, and iron. But raw fish should be avoided during pregnancy. Cook fish thoroughly to avoid parasitic infections. Avoid king mackerel, marlin, tilefish, shark, swordfish, and bigeye tuna during pregnancy as they tend to be higher in mercury, which is dangerous to the fetus. If you eat fish from local waters, make sure it’s not contaminated.
Avoid raw fish sushi during pregnancy, and try cooked fish or vegetable rolls instead.
Is raw seafood safe during pregnancy?
Seafood is healthy to eat during pregnancy. It contains essential nutrients that contribute to the development of the baby’s brain, but it is important to ensure seafood is thoroughly cooked.
Take a quiz
Find out how Flo can help you
Track my period
Silently Suffering After Pregnancy Loss | Cassandra Blomberg | TEDxSDMesaCollege
Choose
Get pregnant
Choose
Follow my baby's growth
Choose
Bivalve mollusks or shellfish in the shell (e.g., mussels, oysters) should open when cooked for four to nine minutes in boiling water, and shrimp and lobster should turn white when it’s cooked. Make sure to cook peeled oysters (by boiling or frying them) for at least three minutes.
Eating raw seafood increases the risk of gastrointestinal issues, blood infections, and skin lesions. That’s why it’s crucial to avoid eating raw seafood while pregnant to avoid infections and their complications.
Dairy and eggs
Is it safe to eat raw or undercooked eggs during pregnancy?
Eggs are a healthy option during pregnancy, and the yolk is especially rich in vitamin D. Eggs may be contaminated with salmonella, however. Avoid consuming raw or undercooked eggs, as well as food items made from them: carbonara, eggnog, raw batter, sauces and salad dressings, hollandaise sauce, etc.
Hard-boiled eggs are a great option to eat during pregnancy.
Is it safe to eat cheese during pregnancy?
Raw-milk products and soft, semi-soft, surface-ripened, and moldy cheeses can contain listeriosis-causing bacteria. It’s better to avoid them while pregnant.
Better options would be hard cheeses or cheese from pasteurized milk. Chilled meat pâtés should be avoided for the same reason.
Is it safe to eat ice cream during pregnancy?
Eating store-bought ice cream during pregnancy is safe because it is made from pasteurized milk and eggs, and the risk of food poisoning is negligible.
Make sure to choose pasteurized ingredients when making ice cream at home.
Fruits, veggies, and plant-based foods
Is it safe to eat citrus fruits during pregnancy?
Citrus fruits are healthy to eat during pregnancy because they are rich in vitamin C and folic acid, which are essential for fetal development. Vitamin C also improves the absorption of iron, which is necessary for the supply of oxygen to the baby.
Citrus fruits can sometimes cause allergic reactions in the person who consumes them, but there has been no confirmed link between a parent who eats citrus during pregnancy and the formation of allergies in the child in the future.
Can you eat mushrooms while pregnant?
There is evidence that a mushroom diet may reduce the risk of hypertension during pregnancy and helps control diabetes and obesity. Button mushrooms, oyster mushrooms, honey mushrooms, and butter-foot boletes can be great choices during pregnancy. They are healthy and can be easily distinguished from poisonous species. For safety, totally avoid eating raw and dried mushrooms. It’s crucial that they are fully cooked.
Marinated and canned mushrooms are not recommended because there is a risk of botulism infection.
Is it safe to eat honey during pregnancy?
Honey is a healthy and natural dessert. Consuming it during pregnancy is safe in most cases.
However, remember that honey is a fairly strong allergen. People who are even slightly predisposed to allergies should likely exclude honey from their diet.
Is it safe to eat garlic during pregnancy?
Garlic has excellent antioxidant and anti-inflammatory properties. Garlic is safe during pregnancy and has many advantages if consumed in moderate amounts. Eating too much garlic can cause heartburn, though.
Is it safe to eat ginger during pregnancy?
Ginger can alleviate toxicosis symptoms (nausea and vomiting), but it is important to consume it in small quantities. Experts recommend avoiding ginger in the last weeks of pregnancy because of its blood-thinning properties, which might cause postpartum hemorrhage.
Is it safe to eat sugar substitutes during pregnancy?
The U.S. Food & Drug Administration has included aspartame, sucralose, and stevia in the list of sugar substitutes that are safe during pregnancy. Make sure to avoid crude stevia leaf, stevia infusions, and extracts of the whole leaf. The use of sweeteners can have adverse effects on health (for example, headaches, digestive problems, etc.), so they should be consumed in moderation.
Is it safe to eat peanuts while pregnant?
Some people believe that peanuts aren’t safe during pregnancy because they can be very allergenic. However, peanuts should be avoided only if the person is allergic to them. Otherwise, they haven’t been proven to adversely affect the fetus.
Moreover, peanuts contain choline, which is good for the development of the baby’s brain and can prevent some fetal defects.
Is it safe to eat raw sprouts during pregnancy?
Experts recommend that pregnant people exclude raw sprouts (such as radish, bean, alfalfa, clover, etc.) from their diet.
If bacteria get into the sprouts, it is almost impossible to wash them out, and this can cause food poisoning. This is an unnecessary risk. Fully cooked sprouts can be consumed safely.
Is it safe to eat ready-to-eat salads during pregnancy?
Ready-to-eat salads with ham, chicken, or seafood can pose a danger as they can contain various bacteria that are destroyed only by thorough cooking. Salad dressing can also include unsafe foods like raw eggs. Any ready-to-eat food can pose a risk for a pregnant person.
To rule out the risk of food-borne infection, experts suggest making these salads at home to ensure that the ingredients are cooked properly.
Can garlic affect early pregnancy?
Can you have garlic when you are pregnant?
Pregnancy is a special moment in a woman's life. That being said, it is also the time when one needs to exercise the most precautions and wellness tips for their health and the little ones growing inside them.
There are a lot of dos and don'ts, foods which are recommended and some which are sworn away from. Amongst the most debated ones is garlic. Even though it's an anti-viral food which carries immense benefits for your health, there are some who refrain from eating garlic altogether. We tell you whether it's safe or not.
02/6Is garlic good for you?
Not only does garlic supply a bunch of nutrients, vitamins and minerals for the body, it's also a natural anti-bacterial drug. It normalises blood flow in the body and balances hormonal functioning. The benefits of eating garlic regularly are also being vouched during the current times since it is an anti-viral food. It contains allicin, which effectively works in fighting different germs and viruses from the passageways.
03/6Is garlic safe for pregnant women?
There are certain foods which are termed extremely beneficial during pregnancy and some, like caffeine, which are harmful. Garlic does not fall in any of these categories, so to say.
10 Foods that Surely Cause Miscarriage | Foods to Avoid during Pregnancy
04/6What happens when you consume garlic during pregnancy?
While garlic is an excellent immunity boosting natural medicine, the real concern draws up when you think about the quantity you consume.
Even though garlic is absolutely safe to have during the first trimester, pregnant women should be cautious about the quantity they have during the later stages of pregnancy, especially during the ending months. Chomping on raw garlic in pregnancy is something a lot of women tend to avoid.
05/6Why are precautions advised?
Garlic if had in small quantities is absolutely safe. However, since it also contains blood-thinning properties which could affect blood pressure, having too much of it can be a little scary.
Another reason why some tend to avoid the herb altogether is because of the taste and smell. Since it is highly pungent, it can be rather unappetizing and make some women nauseous at the sight.
06/6Conclusion
Even though there's a lot of advice and precautions which come along with garlic consumption in pregnancy, it is not unsafe. All you need to remember is to practice moderation instead of avoiding it altogether.
If the taste bothers you, you can also consider adding garlic extract or other such supplements.
Again, do not consider doing anything or making any additions or deletions to your diet before consulting a doctor first.
What are the causes of miscarriage?
A miscarriage is a fairly common complication of early pregnancy, in which the developing embryo or fetus dies in the womb of natural causes, or due to exposure to substances, i.e. in certain medications, which are unsuitable for use during pregnancy. The term miscarriage is used to describe this process when it happens during the first 20 weeks of pregnancy:
A miscarriage which occurs in the first trimester (weeks 1-12 of pregnancy) is known as an early miscarriage
A miscarriage which occurs in the second trimester (during weeks 13-20 of the pregnancy) is known as a late miscarriage
Loss of the fetus which occurs after week 20 of pregnancy is known as a stillbirth, or fetal death.
Most miscarriages are early miscarriages, and are caused by factors including:
Chemical pregnancy, when the fertilized egg fails to implant in the uterine (womb) lining, and the pregnancy can only be evidenced by measuring levels of the pregnancy hormone, hCG, which will be detectable in blood or urine pregnancy tests. The embryo does not develop sufficiently to be visible on an ultrasound scan.
Chromosomal (DNA) abnormalities, which are present in the fetus.
Problems with the placenta, the organ responsible for the exchange of nutrients and gases between the pregnant person and the fetus.
Certain long-term health conditions, particularly immunological disorders, such as diabetes or systemic lupus erythematosus, may cause early or late miscarriage. (See the section on miscarriage caused by long-term health conditions and immune disorders.)
The typical causes of late miscarriages tend to be different from the causes of early miscarriages. The leading causes of late miscarriage include:
Adverse reactions to medications
Diseases and infections, such as toxoplasmosis or rubella
Food poisoning
Environmental factors, such as exposure to radiation
Womb or cervical dysfunction
More rarely, miscarriage can be caused by other factors, including histamine intolerance, fibroids or psychological stress.
It is also possible for a miscarriage to be caused by treatable conditions; for example, fertility issues affecting one or both parents. (See the section on diagnosing and treating causes of miscarriage.)
Age and miscarriage
Being older increases the likelihood of miscarrying, in both the first and second trimesters. The older a person is, the more likely it becomes that their pregnancy will result in a miscarriage:
In women under 30, only 1 in 10 pregnancies end in miscarriage
In women over 45, more than half of all pregnancies end in miscarriage
The older either parent is, the more likely it is that the developing fetus will be vulnerable to other causes of miscarriage, which renders age the leading cause of miscarriage overall. In particular, the risk of conceiving an embryo with chromosomal abnormalities, which may lead to miscarriage, increases with age.
The risk of miscarriage increases after the approximate age of 35 for women, and 40 for men. Notwithstanding the increased risk of miscarriage, it is possible to have a healthy pregnancy after these ages.
Chemical pregnancy
In a chemical pregnancy, the fertilized egg fails to implant properly in the uterine (womb) lining and/or survive in the uterus. Miscarriages caused by chemical pregnancy occur very early in pregnancy, usually at around week five of pregnancy, before the fetal heartbeat would be detectable via an ultrasound scan.
It is possible for a person to be unaware of their chemical pregnancy and of miscarrying. Many early miscarriages go unnoticed because the symptoms of early miscarriage, such as abdominal pain and/or vaginal blood loss, are not usually severe. They may therefore be perceived as normal menstruation.
Good to know: Many forms of birth control (contraception), such as the combined pill or progesterone-only mini pill work to thin the lining of the womb. These medications are usually taken intentionally to prevent pregnancy. One way in which they do this is by stopping the fertilized egg from implanting. When a fertilized egg does not implant due to the effective use of birth control, this is not considered a chemical pregnancy.
Chromosomal abnormalities
Chromosomal abnormalities are the most common cause of early miscarriage. They are detected in 50 to 85 percent of miscarried pregnancy tissue, which, as standard practice, is usually analyzed after a miscarriage takes place, to help determine the cause.
Shocking Side-Effects of Garlic | Is Consuming Lahsun Dangerous During Pregnancy?
Most people have 23 pairs of chromosomes. Chromosomes are basically blocks of DNA; the mechanism by which parents pass their genes onto their offspring, determining characteristics like hair and eye color and the possibility of carrying – or being affected by – hereditary diseases like sickle cell disease.
The male sex cell (sperm) and the female sex cell (egg) each carry 23 chromosomes. A normal fertilized egg (zygote) has 23 pairs of chromosomes and is equipped to develop into a healthy embryo, which in turn develops into a fetus as the pregnancy progresses. An embryo becomes a fetus at around eight weeks into the pregnancy, at which point all major body parts are present.
If an embryo has more or fewer than 23 pairs of chromosomes, this is a chromosomal abnormality and the zygote will be vulnerable to miscarriage, either during its embryo stage or when it develops into a fetus.
A multitude of potential problems stemming from chromosomal abnormalities can affect the embryo or fetus. It can take an unpredictable amount of time for an embryo or fetus to develop enough for it to become clear that, due to its chromosomal makeup, it would be unlikely to survive after birth. It is at this point, usually in the first trimester, that miscarriage will occur.
Types of chromosomal abnormalities which commonly lead to miscarriage include:
Blighted ovum
Blighted ovum is a very common type of miscarriage which occurs early in pregnancy, usually in week 5-6. This is before the developing fetus would be visible on an ultrasound scan.
A blighted ovum miscarriage is caused by high levels of chromosome abnormalities in the fetus which would prevent any resultant baby from developing healthily. As a result, the fertilized egg does not develop into an embryo. Instead, a cluster of cells forms in the uterus to make an empty pregnancy sac. A blighted ovum often results in miscarriage before a person is aware that they had become pregnant.
Trisomy
The fetus will contain one extra chromosome, so 47 chromosomes will be present in total, rather than the usual 46 (23 pairs). The chances of miscarriage in a case of trisomy are high. Trisomies that do not result in miscarriage are usually born with congenital conditions such as Down syndrome.
Nullisomy
The embryo will be missing a pair of chromosomes. Embryos with missing chromosomes cannot develop healthily and will result in miscarriage.
Monosomy
A monosomy is a fetus in which one chromosome is missing. The fetus will contain 45 chromosomes: 22 pairs and a half. Monosomies almost always result in miscarriage. If a monosomy comes to term, the baby usually has a congenital condition and/or can only survive outside the womb for a short time.
Placental problems
Problems with the placenta are frequently found to be the cause of miscarriage or stillbirth, especially early miscarriage. The placenta is an organ which develops in the uterus during pregnancy. It is pancake-shaped and should be positioned at the top of the uterus, as far away as possible from the cervix, i.e. the part connecting the womb to the vagina. After the baby is born, further contractions will typically push the placenta out through the vagina.
In its correct position, a healthy placenta performs important functions including:
Providing the developing fetus with oxygen and nutrients
Removing waste products from the fetus’ blood through the umbilical cord
Secreting the hormones necessary to maintain pregnancy
Passing on antibodies to protect the fetus from infection
If the placenta does not form or function correctly throughout pregnancy, this is likely to negatively affect the development of the fetus, causing a miscarriage. Ways in which the placenta may cause miscarriage include:
Passing on toxins from alcohol, excess caffeine, unsuitable environments, medications that are unsuitable for use in pregnancy and illicit substances from the pregnant person to the pregnancy tissue and/or fetus.
Passing on harmful cells related to infections or inadequately managed long-term health conditions from the pregnant person to the pregnancy tissue and/or fetus.
Placental insufficiency, in which the placenta fails to pass sufficient hormones, antibodies, oxygen and nutrients to the developing baby. Placental insufficiency is particularly common when the placenta does not grow big enough to sustain the fetus. For example, this sometimes happens when it is sustaining twins rather than a single fetus.
Medications which can cause miscarriage
People who become pregnant may have an ongoing health condition, or develop a new condition, which requires continual treatment and/or management using certain over-the-counter (OTC) or prescription medications. Before using any medication, pregnant women should always confirm with a doctor that it is safe for use in pregnancy.
Physicians can advise on making changes to long-term medications which are needed and/or recommend appropriate new medications to use, to minimise the risks to both mother and baby.
In addition to needing medications for possible ongoing conditions and/or new conditions unrelated to the pregnancy itself, pregnancy can cause a person to be affected by certain related conditions such as severe morning sickness or headaches, mainly in the first trimester. These can usually be treated effectively and safely with appropriate OTC or prescription medications as recommended by a doctor.
However, particular medications are unsuitable for pregnant women and using them can cause miscarriage or (teratogenic) abnormalities and/or malformations. The reason that certain medications may cause miscarriage is that, like food and drink consumed by the pregnant person, their components are transmitted by the placenta to the developing fetus. Pregnant women are not usually included in safety trials for new compounds, and therefore only a limited amount is known about whether medications are wholly safe for use during pregnancy.
To minimize the risk of a medication-induced miscarriage, doctors will:
Prescribe only medications which are widely accepted to be safe for pregnant women and the developing fetus
Advise people to avoid medications which have been linked to pregnancy or birth complications and miscarriage
Medications which are commonly linked to miscarriage include:
Ibuprofen
An over-the-counter or prescription painkiller commonly used to treat fever inflammation and pain, ibuprofen is not recommended for use during pregnancy and can cause congenital defects as well as increase the risk of miscarriage.
Isotretinoin
Used to treat severe acne, this medication can cause congenital defects, most often affecting the baby’s heart and face, as well as increase the risk of miscarriage. People who take this medication regularly and are trying to conceive should discuss the issue, and the possibility of a change in medication with their doctor, in advance of becoming pregnant.
Vitamins and herbal supplements
Although vitamins and herbal supplements may contain only natural ingredients and thus may appear to be a healthier alternative to pharmaceutical medications, many are unsuitable for use in pregnancy and can cause birth defects or increase the likelihood of miscarriage and other complications. For example, consuming too much vitamin A can cause congenital defects; supplements containing a maximum of 5,000 IU are recommended. Normal quantities of garlic and fenugreek (as used in cooking) pose no health risks, but larger quantities, found in supplements, may cause miscarriage or preterm birth.
Ergotamine and methysergide
Used to treat migraine headaches, these medications are associated with an increased risk of premature birth and miscarriage.
Read more about Migraine Headache »
Natalizumab
This medication, which is used to treat multiple sclerosis (MS), may cause miscarriage. To avoid this outcome, people affected by MS who are using natalizumab and wish to become pregnant should stop taking it and devise an alternative treatment plan for the course of their pregnancy with their doctor, in advance of trying to conceive.
Read more about Multiple Sclerosis »
Antithyroid medication
People who are taking medications to regulate the activity of the thyroid may need to adjust their prescription in consultation with their doctor to ensure that their treatment routine is safe for pregnancy. In the first trimester, propylthiouracil is usually prescribed. In the second and third trimesters, the medication may be changed to methimazole or carbimazole to minimize the risk of toxicity.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommend always consulting a licensed healthcare provider before using any over-the-counter or prescription medication during pregnancy. Consult a medical professional about which products are safe for pregnancy, including prenatal vitamins and herbal supplements. Doctors can advise against the use of medications that are not suitable for pregnancy, reducing the risk of miscarriage.
Diseases and infections
The exact mechanisms by which diseases and infections cause miscarriage is not yet fully understood. It is believed to vary between different conditions and may affect a person’s pregnancy differently in each case. In general, when a pregnant person contracts an infection, this is believed to set off a cascade of possible events within the maternal body. This may eventually affect the fetus or uterine area, potentially causing miscarriage. Feeling unwell? You can get a free symptom assessment at any time by downloading the Ada app.
Not all cases of disease or infection lead to miscarriage, but it is important to seek medical attention promptly if an infection is suspected, as effective treatment can significantly reduce the likelihood of this outcome. Preventable infections are believed to account for up to 15 percent of early miscarriages and up to 66 percent of late miscarriages.
TORCH panel test
Pregnant women are often offered TORCH panel test on their first pregnancy screening visit. The TORCH test is a single test which screens for the a group of infections which are likely to cause pregnancy complications, including miscarriage.
Read more information about undergoing the TORCH panel test »
Known by the acronym TORCH, the infections screened for in this test are:
Toxoplasmosis
This infection is caused by a parasite called Toxoplasma gondii. The infection is often symptomless, but may cause flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue and muscle aches. It is usually harmless, but increases the likelihood of miscarriage in pregnant women, particularly in early pregnancy.
8 Amazing Health Benefits Of Eating Garlic During Pregnancy
Toxoplasmosis can be found in raw meat, unpasteurized milks and untreated water, as well as soil and cat feces. Pregnant women may want to take particular care while gardening or in having contact with animals, including cleaning pet litter boxes, to reduce the risk of infection.
Other infections, including syphilis
Sexually transmitted infections (STI) such as syphilis, gonorrhea and chlamydia are associated with an increased risk of miscarriage.
In addition to the TORCH screen, pregnant women are advised to undergo regular sexual health screenings so that any STIs that develop can be diagnosed and treated promptly to minimize this risk.
Rubella (German measles)
Rubella can cause miscarriage, stillbirth or congenital defects; health problems which affect the baby from birth. It is especially likely to cause problems with the pregnancy, including miscarriage, if a pregnant person contracts rubella in the first 20 weeks.
Read more about Rubella »
Cytomegalovirus infection
Cytomegalovirus (CMV) infection is a condition which usually affects the respiratory tract, and significantly increases the risk of miscarriage. It is a member of the Herpes virus family, and is sometimes also called Human Herpes Virus 5 (HHV-5). The virus can spread through blood, saliva, or sexual contact. It can also be spread through cervical mucus and breast milk.
People who have been affected may shed the virus in their feces and urine for some time after infection.
Read more abou Cytomegalovirus Infection »
Herpes simplex virus (HSV)
Herpes simplex typically referred to as “herpes” or HSV, is a viral infection caused by the herpes simplex virus. The virus comes in two varieties: Herpes type one (HSV-1) and herpes type two (HSV-2). Although it can occasionally cause genital herpes, herpes type one (also called herpes labialis) generally leads to sores around the mouth, whereas herpes type two generally leads to genital sores.
Genital herpes is linked to pregnancy complications, including miscarriage and the development of genital conditions, but rarely causes miscarriage. It is, however, vital to treat herpes in pregnant women to reduce these risks, as neonatal herpes, in which the baby is born with the condition as a result of catching the infection from the mother during
Read more about Genital Herpes »
Other diseases and infections which can cause miscarriage
Good to know: Many of the diseases and infections which can cause miscarriage can also cause other complications in pregnancy, such as congenital defects or preterm birth. Feeling unwell? You can get a free symoptom assessment by downloading the [Ada a]](https://app.adjust.com/e8ex7r4?redirect_macos=https%3A%2F%2Fappstore.com%2Fadapersonalhealthcompanion).
Conditions which are linked to the development of pregnancy complications that can cause a miscarriage include:
Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV)
The risk of miscarriage is believed to be significantly higher among those affected by HIV than within the general population. However, undergoing antiretroviral therapy (ART) is believed to reduce the likelihood of this outcome, as well as other risks such as that of transmitting HIV to the unborn child.
Dengue fever
A mosquito-borne infection, dengue fever can be passed from the mother to the fetus via the placenta. Dengue fever is most likely to cause miscarriage when the pregnant person is severely rather than mildly affected. Severe infections are much more likely to occur in people with multiple medical conditions, weakened immune systems, or in those who have had a previous dengue infection, than in the general population.
Read more about Dengue Fever »
Bacterial vaginosis (BV)
This is a common infection of the vagina involving discharge which may be foul-smelling, resulting from an imbalance of the types of bacteria found within the vagina. This can cause itching and foul-smelling vaginal discharge. In people who are not pregnant, BV is typically harmless and easily treatable with antibiotics.
In pregnant women, BV is associated with a significantly increased risk of miscarriage, particularly in the first trimester, equivalent to one extra miscarriage for every six pregnant women with BV. Seeking medical attention if BV is suspected, so that it can be treated early with antibiotics, can help prevent adverse outcomes.
Read more about Bacterial Vaginosis »
Malaria
Malaria is caused by a parasite known as Plasmodium, which is normally spread through the bite of an infected mosquito. Sometimes malaria does not show up immediately in a blood test. This happens especially in pregnant women, where the parasite can be present in high numbers in the placenta, without being apparent in the rest of the body.
For this reason, it is important that all pregnant women who have reason to suspect they may have been infected consult a doctor as soon as possible.
Read more about Malaria »
Parvovirus B19
This is a common virus which causes a non-serious condition known as fifth disease or slapped cheek syndrome, most often in children. It is most likely to cause miscarriage if it occurs during the first trimester of pregnancy; however, fewer than five percent of all cases of parvovirus B19 in pregnancy result in miscarriage. A doctor will be able to screen for the virus using a blood test and recommend treatment options thereafter if necessary.
Food poisoning
Eating food which has been contaminated by parasites, bacteria, viruses or certain chemicals is a common way for people to catch infections during pregnancy which can increase the risk of miscarriage.
A pregnant person’s immune system is somewhat weaker than that of a healthy, non-pregnant person, which makes getting food poisoning from contaminated food more likely. The most common types of infection associated with miscarriage are:
Listeriosis
This infection is caused by Listeria monocytogenes bacteria. The infection involves flu-like symptoms such as fever, fatigue and muscle aches. In pregnant women, listeriosis can lead to miscarriage, premature birth or the newborn being born with a life-threatening form of the infection.
Listeria can be found in many foods, including soft cheeses, sprouts, melons, raw and reheated meats and unpasteurized milks.
Salmonella
This infection is caused by bacteria called Salmonella that can attack the intestinal tract.
Salmonella is not a common cause of miscarriage, but medical attention should be sought if it is suspected. It usually involves diarrhea, vomiting and stomach cramps and lasts for 4-7 days. It is generally caught from contaminated food, especially meat, eggs, poultry and milk.
Foods to avoid during pregnancy
Foods which are associated with a heightened risk of catching infections that can cause miscarriage include:
Unpasteurised dairy products
Mold-ripened soft cheeses such as brie and camembert - these are more prone to growths of harmful bacteria
Raw or partially-cooked, unpasteurized eggs
Raw meat and fish; such as sushi
Paté made with meat
Cured meats
Undercooked meat - lamb, pork and venison in particular should be avoided
Meats which have been cooked and reheated, unless heated until steaming hot
Seek medical attention promptly at the first sign of food poisoning during pregnancy. In some cases, antibiotics and other medications may need to be prescribed, and no self-medication should be carried out without seeking medical advice. These can limit the potential impact of the infection on the developing embryo or fetus, reducing the likelihood of having a miscarriage.
Environmental and lifestyle factors
Many environmental conditions have been linked to decreased levels of fertility and an increased risk of miscarriage.
These include:
Using tobacco products and/or being in regular proximity to secondhand smoke, or vapour from e-cigarettes
Metals, including lead, found in some types of fish; and nickel; found in jewelry and some foods
High levels of air pollution
Organic solvents; chemicals which vaporize at room temperature and are used to dissolve certain plastics and varnishes
Pesticides; chemicals sprayed on plants/crops to kill pests
Inhalational anesthetics, such as nitrous oxide and xenon, as used in healthcare professions
Ionising radiation above safe limits.
Read more about working safely with ionising radiation »
What is Garlic Good For? Benefits and Medicinal Uses for Garlic
It is strongly recommended that all women who are trying to conceive or are pregnant adapt their lifestyle and day-to-day or work routine in order to avoid these factors, to minimize the risk of miscarriage.
Stopping using tobacco products is very important, as this is a primary cause of pregnancy complications.
Certain types of jobs in sites such as radiology departments, factories or farms may be associated with an increased risk of miscarriage. Pregnant women should discuss any concerns related to their work or home environment with their doctors and employers, so that adequate precautions against miscarriage can be taken where necessary.
Womb or cervical dysfunction
Problems with the womb or cervix structure or function can increase the likelihood of miscarrying. Many womb or cervical dysfunctions make miscarriage particularly likely to occur in the second trimester as the developing fetus grows in size. A weakened cervix, known as an impotent cervix, commonly causes miscarriage, as the cervical muscles dilate too early in the pregnancy. This often results in the early expulsion of the fetus from the womb, before it would be able to survive on its own.
Good to know: If medical professionals are aware that a pregnant person has a weakened cervix; e.g. because they have previously experienced a miscarriage for this reason, a temporary stitch may be put around the cervix to keep it closed. This procedure is usually performed during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy to prevent miscarriage, and is removed around week 37 in preparation for the birth.
Other problems which may affect the pelvic area and cause miscarriage include the presence of non-cancerous growths in the womb (fibroids) and having a uterine form variation (an abnormally-shaped womb). This is normally diagnosed using imaging tests. If a person is aware that they have an abnormal womb structure they should discuss the possibility of miscarriage with their doctor in advance of trying to get pregnant. Additional check-ups may be scheduled in order to detect any possible complications as early as possible in the pregnancy.
Uterine abnormalities commonly linked to miscarriage include:
Arcuate womb
The uterus has a dip at the top, but otherwise looks very much like a regularly-shaped womb. This dip makes a second-trimester miscarriage more likely. Additionally, while it does not usually cause difficulties in conceiving or premature birth, an arcuate womb may cause difficulties during the birth itself. Many people with an arcuate womb opt for a Cesarean birth (C-section) as a result.
Bicornuate womb
Also called a heart-shaped womb, this abnormality increases a person’s chances of a second-trimester miscarriage or premature birth. Additionally, while it does not usually cause any difficulties in conceiving or during early pregnancy, having a bicornuate womb may cause difficulties during the birth itself. These may be overcome by opting for a Cesarean.
Septate womb
In a septate womb, a wall of muscle from the top to the bottom of the womb separates the womb into two vertical chambers. The wall of muscle may extend all or part of the way down the womb, creating a partial or total division. People with a septate womb will often have difficulty conceiving and are at greater risk of a first-trimester miscarriage or premature birth. A septate womb may cause the developing fetus to lie in an unusual position, resulting in birthing difficulties.
Unicornuate womb
A unicornuate womb is a rare abnormality in which only one side of the uterus develops. The womb chamber is therefore smaller than usual and only has one functional ovary and fallopian tube. It is usually difficult for people with a unicornuate womb to conceive and, in pregnant women, it increases the likelihood of ectopic pregnancy, miscarriage and premature birth.
Long-term health conditions and immune disorders
Long-term, or chronic, health conditions which are associated with pregnancy complications and have the potential to cause a miscarriage in the second trimester include:
Diabetes or gestational diabetes (uncontrolled)
Endometriosis
Systemic lupus erythematosus
Kidney disease
Hyperthyroidism and hypothyroidism. See this resource on thyroid conditions in pregnancy for more information.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
Hormonal problems
Obesity
Crohn’s disease
Antiphospholipid syndrome
Multiple sclerosis (MS)
Celiac disease
The likelihood of a miscarriage is increased if a long-term health condition is undiagnosed or poorly managed. If you think you may be affected by an undiagnosed condition, you can get a free symptom assessment at any time by downloading the Ada app. If a person has any ongoing medical conditions, they should ask the doctor if their normal treatment or management plan – and use of certain medications – needs adapting during pregnancy.
Many of the long-term health conditions which are associated with miscarriage are immune disorders, conditions which can prevent the fetus and placenta from being properly protected from the body’s regular immune response. This can leave the fetus and placenta vulnerable to attack from the mother’s immune cells.
Good to know: The immune system works to protect the body from foreign cells (antigens) by destroying them in order to prevent the development or spread of disease or infection. Both the developing embryo and placenta contain antigens. In a healthy pregnancy, the genes that are responsible for recruiting immune cells are turned off within the decidua – the lining inside the uterus which forms during pregnancy. The developing embryo and placenta are therefore protected from being destroyed by the immune system in the usual way, despite containing foreign cells.
Immunological abnormalities which may cause miscarriage can stem from the pregnant person being affected by factors including:
Chronic health conditions that affect the immune cells in the pelvic area, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
An immune response to proteins in sperm
Failure to generate protective cells inside the womb
A greater than usual number of active immune cells
Stress or dietary choices which affect a person’s immune tolerance during pregnancy
If a person who wishes to become pregnant knows that they are affected by any condition associated with an improper immune response to pregnancy, they should seek medical attention before trying to conceive. An ongoing antenatal management plan will be devised, in order to help prevent their condition from causing miscarriage.
Other causes of miscarriage
Compared with the causes discussed above, miscarriage may be caused fairly rarely by additional factors including:
Histamine intolerance
Fibroids; non-cancerous growths in the womb
Asherman’s syndrome; adhesions or scarring on the uterus
Physical trauma, such as a knock or fall
Being overweight or underweight
Consuming tobacco products, alcohol, or illicit drugs
Diagnosing causes of miscarriage
A miscarriage may be caused by one or more changeable or unchangeable factors. It may be possible to find out the causes of a miscarriage by performing an autopsy on the pregnancy tissue and/or a placental exam (an analysis of the placenta). However, it is not always possible to discern the cause(s) of a miscarriage. This is not necessarily bad news: many people whose causal factors for a miscarriage are unknown go on to have a healthy pregnancy resulting in a live birth in future.
Unchangeable factors
If the miscarriage is caused by unchangeable factors such as a person’s age or an underlying health condition which is already being managed effectively to ensure the best chance of a healthy pregnancy, it may not be possible to take preventive measures to reduce the likelihood of miscarrying in future.
Changeable factors
If the miscarriage is caused by changeable factors such as eating an unsuitable pregnancy diet, taking medications which are unsuitable for use in pregnancy, or a treatable, underlying condition, doctors can provide guidance on treating and managing these problems and help devise the best healthcare plan to follow before trying to conceive again.
Methods for diagnosing causes of miscarriage
A 2015 survey across the U.S. of people who have experienced a miscarriage, found that over 75 percent of people strongly wish to know the cause of their miscarriage. To help identify any possible causes for a miscarriage, it is usual for doctors to perform:
An autopsy on the pregnancy tissue
This is usually carried out by performing a whole-body radiograph, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), a full-body examination and DNA tests to detect the presence of infectious agents and pathogens.
A placental exam
Laboratory analysis of the placenta, which may detect the presence of causal agents of miscarriage, such as infectious bacteria.
Fertility testing
After three consecutive miscarriages (recurrent miscarriage), one or both partners will be offered fertility tests in order to discern whether fertility treatments, such as in vitro fertilization (IVF) or fertility medications, may be necessary in order to increase the chances of a future healthy pregnancy.
never eat these foods during early stage of #pregnancy-[foods to avoid during pregnancy ]
Good to know: Fertility testing is not usually carried out except in cases of recurrent miscarriage, because it is very common to go on to have a healthy pregnancy in future after one, or even two miscarriages.
Causes of miscarriage FAQs
Q: What is male-factor miscarriage?
A: Male-factor miscarriage is more common in pregnancies where the male partner is over 40. It is a term used to describe miscarriage that is due to depleted sperm health. Semen analysis can be performed to determine the possible causes. Causes of male-factor miscarriage may include:
Abnormal sperm shape; morphology
Defective or fragmented DNA; although conception may be possible, defected of fragmented DNA can lead to chromosomal abnormalities of the fetus, which may ultimately result in miscarriage
Q: What are the most common misconceptions about the causes of miscarriage?
A: There are many factors which are reputed to cause miscarriage, but which are not scientifically linked to it. These factors do not, therefore, need to be avoided with the aim of miscarriage prevention. They include:
Eating spicy food
Airplane travel; always discuss air travel plans with a doctor in advance, as the risks posed can depend on the month of pregnancy
Sexual intercourse
Low mood
Exercise and heavy lifting, although consulting a doctor is advised to make sure that your exercise plan is suitable for pregnancy
Q: How can I tell if I am having a miscarriage?
A: The most common signs of miscarriage are vaginal bleeding, cramping, and sudden loss of pregnancy symptoms. However, these symptoms can all occur as natural features of a healthy pregnancy, and are not always a cause for concern.
Seek immediate medical attention if a miscarriage is suspected. Doctors will be able to establish whether there is a pregnancy complication, such as miscarriage or will be able to reassure you that the pregnancy is progressing normally.
No comments:
Post a Comment