Impact of Pesticides on Pregnant Women Living Near Rice Fields
Regarding health care issues related to the living environment during pregnancy? Dear Dr. Chang, I would like to inquire about the potential effects on pregnant women living near rice fields during pesticide spraying periods. Does long-term residence next to rice fields, where p...
Dr. Zhang Kunmin Reply:
Hello, the use of pesticides in fields, orchards, and greenhouses by pregnant women can potentially affect fetal development. Particularly, some women lack knowledge in this area and may spray pesticides outdoors in summer while wearing short sleeves and shorts, without masks or ...[Read More] Impact of Pesticides on Pregnant Women Living Near Rice Fields
Is It Safe to Take Nature Made Fish Oil During Pregnancy?
Is there any concern about accidentally taking Lecithin fish oil? Hello Doctor: I am a pregnant woman who is over 31 weeks along. Recently, I went to Costco to purchase calcium and fish oil, and I consulted with the pharmacist present, so I have been taking the products with peac...
Dr. Chen Changfu Reply:
During pregnancy, it is generally understood that any medication should be avoided unless it is necessary and effective, in order to prevent adverse effects on the fetus. Pregnant women should not consume excessive amounts of fish oil, which is rich in fat-soluble vitamins. After...[Read More] Is It Safe to Take Nature Made Fish Oil During Pregnancy?
Improving Vaginal Health: Probiotics and Hygiene Tips for Yeast Infections
Taking probiotics to improve vaginal health! I have recurrent Candida infections. Today, I bought a jar of "Shang Yu Shi Nu Qing" probiotics, and it is recommended to take them for three months. Should I continue taking them? Can I use a douching product to irrigate the...
Dr. Zhang Yongxuan Reply:
1. It is recommended to continue treatment. To completely eradicate this type of infection, treatment must be sustained for at least three months; otherwise, this stubborn Candida cannot be fully eliminated. 2. Vaginal douching is not recommended because the normal vaginal envi...[Read More] Improving Vaginal Health: Probiotics and Hygiene Tips for Yeast Infections
Does Pregnancy Affect Hair Loss in Women?
What can affect hair loss? Hello: Can pregnancy potentially affect hair loss?
Dr. Lü Lizheng Reply:
Hello: During pregnancy, the quality of hair generally does not undergo significant changes; some individuals may even notice their hair becoming darker. However, it may also become coarser and more frizzy, and due to lifestyle changes, it can become oilier as well. After childbi...[Read More] Does Pregnancy Affect Hair Loss in Women?
Understanding Chlamydia and Mycoplasma Testing During Pregnancy
Pregnancy and Chlamydia, Mycoplasma Doctor: Hello! I am quite confused about the issues regarding Chlamydia and Mycoplasma. I come from mainland China, and when preparing for pregnancy, hospitals there place great importance on preconception screenings, which include tests for Ch...
Dr. Chen Changfu Reply:
The testing and culture of Chlamydia and Mycoplasma are time-consuming and not easy. A positive serological test only indicates a past infection and does not confirm an active infection or the severity of the disease. In Taiwan, prenatal screening for these infections is not incl...[Read More] Understanding Chlamydia and Mycoplasma Testing During Pregnancy
Understanding Childbirth Challenges: Pain, Recovery, and Baby Care Tips
Production issues Hello, Doctor: 1. Why is the first childbirth for women the most painful and difficult? 2. How long should women wait between giving birth to have another child? Why? 3. Why is there a saying regarding childbirth: "If you can give birth, you can have se...
Dr. Lü Lizheng Reply:
Dear Meme, 1. Why is it the most painful and difficult for women to give birth to their first child? Answer: This is because the cervix and vulva have never been stretched before, making it more uncomfortable. 2. How long should women wait between giving birth to two children ...[Read More] Understanding Childbirth Challenges: Pain, Recovery, and Baby Care Tips
Understanding Dizziness, Sweating, and Nausea in Pregnant Women
Dizziness, night sweats, and vomiting are symptoms that can occur in pregnant women? Dr. Chen: Hello, I would like to ask about a situation that occurred last night when I was trying to fall asleep: 1. I experienced dizziness, feeling as if the room was spinning. 2. I was sweatin...
Dr. Chen Changfu Reply:
During pregnancy, physiological changes in the gastrointestinal tract of the mother include increased gastric acid secretion and prolonged gastric emptying time (which means slower digestion of food). This makes pregnant women more susceptible to gastrointestinal ulcers, especial...[Read More] Understanding Dizziness, Sweating, and Nausea in Pregnant Women
Is Bloating Normal During Pregnancy? Tips for Relief and Remedies
Bloating during pregnancy? Dear Dr. Dong, Is it normal for pregnant mothers to experience bloating? How can bloating be alleviated? Is using anti-gas ointment effective? Thank you.
Dr. Dong Yuhong Reply:
Hello: Pregnant mothers may experience bloating due to slower intestinal motility and other reasons. It is advisable to increase water intake and consume more fruits and vegetables to improve this condition. Pregnant mothers should consult their obstetrician for any issues and al...[Read More] Is Bloating Normal During Pregnancy? Tips for Relief and Remedies
Impact of Bathing on Group B Strep Testing During Pregnancy
Regarding Group B Streptococcus and Pregnancy Breast Milk Hello, doctor: I am currently 36 weeks pregnant. Does taking a shower before the Group B Streptococcus (GBS) test have any impact? I wash my genital area with a special intimate wash; will this affect the accuracy of the G...
Dr. Dong Yuhong Reply:
Hello: Normal cleaning of the vulva should not affect the examination, and colostrum typically appears after delivery, but it is also possible to have it at 36 weeks. However, it is important to monitor for any abnormal lumps or discharge from the breasts. Thank you![Read More] Impact of Bathing on Group B Strep Testing During Pregnancy
Understanding Rectovaginal Fistulas: Treatment and Pregnancy Concerns
Fistula issues Hello, I would like to ask again: if there is a rectovaginal fistula issue that needs treatment, should I see an obstetrician-gynecologist or a colorectal surgeon? Additionally, is it possible to address this during delivery (natural birth)? If the fistula issue is...
Dr. Yang Wangjun Reply:
Hello: (1) Rectovaginal fistulas involve both the rectum and the vagina, and can be managed by both obstetricians/gynecologists and colorectal surgeons; however, complex cases may require a multidisciplinary approach. Surgery is typically not performed during pregnancy or labor. ...[Read More] Understanding Rectovaginal Fistulas: Treatment and Pregnancy Concerns
Unexpected Menstrual Bleeding After Years of Amenorrhea: What to Know
Experiencing menstruation again after years of menopause? Hello Dr. Tsai: I had endometriosis when I was younger and had my left ovary removed. After giving birth to my second child, my menstruation stopped, and my doctor assessed that I had entered menopause. During this period,...
Dr. Cai Yonglong Reply:
Dear Dr. Tsai Yong-long of the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Tainan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare, Postmenopausal or post-coital bleeding is considered abnormal and requires a visit to the obstetrics and gynecology outpatient clinic for a Pap smear and re...[Read More] Unexpected Menstrual Bleeding After Years of Amenorrhea: What to Know
Understanding Red and Swollen Nodules on the Areola During Pregnancy
Red and swollen bumps on the areola? Hello, doctor! I am currently 34 weeks pregnant, and one of the bumps on my areola has suddenly enlarged and become red and swollen, resembling a large pimple. This bump is about 0.6 cm in diameter and appears to be filled with a white, pus-li...
Dr. Dong Yuhong Reply:
Hello: It is advisable to inform your obstetrician about your current situation, and if necessary, they may consult a breast surgeon for appropriate management. Thank you![Read More] Understanding Red and Swollen Nodules on the Areola During Pregnancy
Ensuring Healthy Offspring: Age Considerations for Parents
Having healthy offspring? Hello Dr. Chang! I would like to ask you two questions: 1. I am a 43-year-old male; at what age can I marry a woman to have a healthy offspring? 2. As a 43-year-old older male, if I marry a 42-year-old older female, will we have a risk of having a child ...
Dr. Zhang Kunmin Reply:
Hello, the genetic material of a fetus generally comes from both the father and the mother, and its normality is related to many factors, with age being just one of them. 1. Advanced maternal age: As a mother’s age increases, the likelihood of chromosomal abnormalities in the c...[Read More] Ensuring Healthy Offspring: Age Considerations for Parents
Can I Get the Quadrivalent Vaccine After HPV Treatment for CIN?
If you have already been infected with a different type of virus, can you receive the quadrivalent vaccine to protect against other types of the virus? Hello, I would like to ask about my situation. Last year, I had a Pap smear that showed abnormalities, and a biopsy confirmed CI...
Dr. Cai Yonglong Reply:
Dear Dr. Tsai Yong-Lung of the Tainan Hospital, Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Vaccines are preventive measures, and there are four situations in which the cervical cancer vaccine should not be administered: (1) It should not be given during pregnancy (it can be admin...[Read More] Can I Get the Quadrivalent Vaccine After HPV Treatment for CIN?
When Can an Embryo Be Detected by Ultrasound During Pregnancy?
At how many weeks can an embryo be seen on an ultrasound? Hello, Dr. Dong. I have confirmed my pregnancy with a urine test, but neither abdominal nor transvaginal ultrasound has detected the embryo. The previous doctor did not mention anything about drinking more water. Does that...
Dr. Dong Yuhong Reply:
Hello: A positive urine pregnancy test but no visible gestational sac on ultrasound indicates the need for continued monitoring to rule out ectopic pregnancy or other abnormal pregnancies. It is advisable to follow up with the physician as instructed for further examinations. For...[Read More] When Can an Embryo Be Detected by Ultrasound During Pregnancy?
Is It Safe to Use Kairui Medicinal Shampoo During Pregnancy?
Kare Shampoo Hello Dr. Yang, I recently found out that I am pregnant. I am currently using a medicated shampoo called Keri. I would like to ask if it is safe to continue using it. Thank you.
Dr. Yang Wangjun Reply:
Hello: Kele shampoo contains 2% ketoconazole. This medication is classified as Category C by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in terms of pregnancy safety, which means (1) animal studies have shown adverse effects on the fetus, but there are no well-controlled studies ...[Read More] Is It Safe to Use Kairui Medicinal Shampoo During Pregnancy?
Managing Itchy Skin During Pregnancy: Causes and Solutions
Generalized pruritus? I am currently seven months pregnant, and since yesterday, I have started to develop small red bumps on my body that resemble mosquito bites. They have increased in number and size, with more than 20 on my legs, some on my arms, and even on my scalp. I read ...
Dr. Dong Yuhong Reply:
Hello: There are many reasons for skin itching during pregnancy. Given the extensive and numerous rashes on your skin, it is advisable to visit an obstetrics and gynecology department at a medical center. Attention should be paid to preventing potential complications. Thank you.[Read More] Managing Itchy Skin During Pregnancy: Causes and Solutions
Is Vitamin A Safe During Pregnancy? Understanding Risks and Recommendations
Pregnancy I am currently three months pregnant, and I have heard that excessive vitamin A can cause birth defects. If I take one capsule of prenatal vitamins and consume about 20 grams of cod liver oil daily, will my vitamin A intake be too high?
Dr. Zhong Wenzhen Reply:
Hello, thank you for your inquiry. I would like to respond to your question and provide the following recommendations: According to the data, during pregnancy, the required amount of vitamin A is approximately 2500 IU, with a maximum limit not exceeding 10,000 IU. During the brea...[Read More] Is Vitamin A Safe During Pregnancy? Understanding Risks and Recommendations
Is Your Vitamin A Intake Safe During Pregnancy? Essential Guidelines
excuse me? I am currently three months pregnant, and I have heard that excessive vitamin A can cause birth defects. If I take one capsule of prenatal vitamins and consume about 20 grams of cod liver oil daily, will my vitamin A intake be too high?
Dr. Dong Yuhong Reply:
Hello: Panabo is a vitamin supplement certified by the competent health authority. The recommended dosage is one capsule per day, which contains 4000 IU of vitamin A. It should not exceed the safe dosage when taken as directed. During pregnancy, it is advisable to avoid excessive...[Read More] Is Your Vitamin A Intake Safe During Pregnancy? Essential Guidelines
Understanding Measles and Rubella Risks During Pregnancy
Measles and rubella issues? Dear Doctor, I would like to ask you a question. I am currently six months pregnant, and I recently saw news reports about cases of measles and rubella. When I was a child, I did not receive the relevant vaccinations and contracted measles and chicken...
Dr. Dong Yuhong Reply:
Hello: If you have had German measles (rubella) or measles in the past, there is still a possibility of reinfection. If you are pregnant and concerned about related infection issues, it is advisable to seek medical attention promptly if you suspect any symptoms of reinfection. Tr...[Read More] Understanding Measles and Rubella Risks During Pregnancy