New Delhi: For women, becoming a mother is one of the most exciting times in their lives.
However, this sweet golden phase of time of pregnancy is as fragile as your newborn. Hence, a woman needs to take extra care as soon as she gets to learn that she is pregnant.
With Holi round the corner on Monday, doctors recommend some basic care so as not to let pregnancy mar the festive spirit. It is important to know that some colours, despite being branded “natural” or “organic” can still be harmful.
“Some colours termed natural are made from fruits and flowers, but their powder base could have harmful chemicals such as lead and mercury which can get absorbed and affect the foetus in a pregnant woman,” Anuradha Kapur, gynaecologist at Delhi’s Max Hospital, was quoted as telling to IANS.
“For example, natural henna is considered safe, but black henna with paraphenylendiamine (PPD) may cause allergic reactions. Colours containing either of these forms of henna will probably be labelled as natural. So pregnant women should only use homemade Holi colours, she added.
Consultant gynaecologist at Gurgaon’s Columbia Asia Hospital Chetna Jain agreed, saying that while the term natural may be used loosely, there are doubts over the regulation of the colours. The quality control may not be good and there is a huge possibility of contamination of colours which are labelled herbal and considered safe. And these can be harmful to the foetus as they can be inadvertently swallowed or get absorbed from the skin, Jain said.
During pregnancy, immunity level in women is reduced and they are more susceptible to illnesses and infections. Their skin is more sensitive as well. Therefore, reaction to colours that one may have played with before is not uncommon. Doctors suggest playing with colours made at home to avoid harm. They say even new mums who are still breastfeeding their children should also note the warning.
Chemical colours are made of synthetic, industrial dyes or oxidised metals which can be dangerous and have harmful health effects on the baby through breast milk. Some colours are even carcinogenic. So lactating mothers should practise the same caution as pregnant women, Kapur said.
According to doctors, home-made colours can be made by using turmeric, roli (sindoor), boiled beetroot and onions. Tradition, if it must be followed, can be respected by placing a sandalwood or saffron tika on the baby’s forehead.
Apart from the above caution with colours, doctors also listed a few guidelines to keep off harm during the festival. Gynaecologist Anjali Kumar of Paras Hospital said: Be careful about what you eat. It is essential that you avoid heavy or exceptionally oily food that can cause indigestion or heartburn. Avoid drinks and stay hydrated. One should also keep a count of caffeine intake which is present in tea and coffee and even chocolates.
Jain also recommended wearing well-fitting clothes, anti-skid shoes and goggles, as well as the support of an adult or even a wall since playing with water can increase one’s chances of slipping and falling. Applying moisturiser on the skin and oil on the hair will help washing off colours with greater ease.
“Mischief-mongers hurling water balloons during Holi is common and to avoid getting hurt, pregnant women must carry an umbrella while stepping out,” Kapur said. Washing oneself properly is especially important for lactating mothers who otherwise risk their baby ingesting colours.
With a little caution, Holi can be enjoyed by all, including mothers-to-be and new mothers. Just don’t over-exert you, Kapur advised. So, follow the above safety guidelines and enjoy the festival of colours without worrying.
Bureau Report
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