In a world where women constantly juggle between personal and professional responsibilities, health often takes a back seat. However, the role of a dedicated healthcare professional can make a significant difference. Dr. Vaishali Jain, a renowned gynaecologist and obstetrician from Lucknow, has been a beacon of hope for countless women, offering not only medical expertise but also compassionate care. WomenShine had the privilege to speak with Dr. Jain about her inspiring journey, the evolving landscape of women’s health, and the critical role of lifestyle and nutrition in ensuring well-being. In this candid conversation, Dr. Jain shares valuable insights and practical advice for women at different stages of life.
WS: “Dr. Vaishali, as a leading gynaecologist and obstetrician in Lucknow, what inspired you to choose this field of medicine and dedicate your life to women’s health and well-being?”
VJ: A desire for financial independence, coupled with the nobility and recognition associated with the medical profession, inspired me to pursue this field. Additionally, I wanted to make a meaningful difference in women’s lives, particularly in addressing gaps in care and understanding.
WS: “Pregnancy can be a transformative yet challenging journey for many women. What advice would you give to expectant mothers to ensure a healthy and safe pregnancy, especially for those at high risk?”
VJ: Preconception care refers to health care received before pregnancy. Addressing issues such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and epilepsy before conception can prevent future complications for both mother and child. Starting folic acid supplements early helps prevent neural tube defects. Additionally, completing vaccination schedules (such as Rubella), avoiding smoking and alcohol, and maintaining a healthy weight are essential components of preconception care.
WS: “With changing lifestyles and increasing stress levels, have you observed any new trends or challenges in women’s health over the years? How can women be more proactive about their health?”
VJ: With the rising prevalence of lifestyle-related diseases, lifestyle medicine has become critical for women’s health. Stress is a major contributing factor, leading to cardiovascular issues (such as high blood pressure and elevated cholesterol), digestive disorders (like irritable bowel syndrome and acid reflux), reproductive problems (irregular periods, infertility, and premature menopause), and weakened immune systems. Stress can also aggravate skin conditions like acne, eczema, and psoriasis.
WS: “Nutrition plays a critical role in pregnancy. Can you highlight some essential dietary guidelines that pregnant women should follow to ensure the well-being of both mother and child?”
VJ: Key components of a healthy pregnancy include appropriate weight gain, a balanced diet, regular exercise, and timely supplementation of vitamins and minerals. Pregnant women require approximately 300 extra calories daily to maintain a healthy pregnancy. Adequate fluid intake is crucial, with water, juices, and soups being good options. Avoid alcohol entirely during pregnancy.
Ideal Foods:
- Vegetables: Carrots, sweet potatoes, pumpkin, spinach, cooked greens, tomatoes (for vitamin A and potassium)
- Fruits: Mangoes, prunes, bananas, apricots, oranges, and red or pink grapefruit (for potassium)
- Dairy: Low-fat yogurt, skimmed or 1% milk, fortified soy milk (for calcium, potassium, vitamins A and D)
- Grains: Whole grains and cooked cereals (for iron and folic acid)
- Proteins: Beans, peas, nuts, seeds, fish, and chicken.
Foods to Avoid:
- Unpasteurised dairy products (such as soft cheeses)
- Junk food (hot dogs, burgers, etc.)
- Raw or undercooked seafood, eggs, and meat.
WS: “The concept of ‘normal vaginal delivery’ is often a concern for expectant mothers. How do you prepare women physically and mentally for this experience, and what myths would you like to bust about it?”
VJ: Preparing for a normal vaginal delivery (NVD) involves both physical and emotional readiness.
Physical Preparation:
- Pelvic Floor Exercises: Strengthen the muscles involved in childbirth through Kegel exercises.
- Perineal Massage: Helps prepare the perineum for stretching, reducing the risk of tearing during delivery.
- Moderate Exercise: Activities such as walking or swimming improve stamina and assist in optimal fetal positioning.
Emotional Preparation:
- Prenatal Classes: Equip mothers with knowledge about labor stages, pain management, and delivery options.
- Support System: Having a reliable support person can greatly ease the emotional burden during labor.
- Managing Expectations: Childbirth can be unpredictable, so flexibility is key.
Myth Busting:
- Myth: “Labor is always unbearably painful.”
- Fact: While labor can be painful for many, not everyone experiences the same level of pain. There are many options for pain relief, including epidurals, medications, or natural methods like water birth, massage, and breathing exercises.
- Myth: “Having a baby means you’ll tear.”
- Fact: While tearing is common, not all women tear during a vaginal delivery. Factors like the baby’s size, the mother’s tissue elasticity, and the support of the birth team can reduce the likelihood of tearing.
- Myth: “You need to push as hard as possible for hours.”
- Fact: Pushing can be intense, but the pushing phase is typically short (20-30 min) for first-time mothers, and shorter for subsequent deliveries. Effective pushing techniques and a good delivery team can help reduce exhaustion.
- Myth: “You can’t eat or drink during labor.”
- Fact: This depends on the hospital’s policies, but many healthcare providers now allow clear liquids or small snacks during early labor. However, in the event of complications or if anesthesia is required, eating may be restricted.
- Myth: “You should lie on your back during labor for the best delivery.”
- Fact: Lying on your back is just one of many positions for labor. Some women find squatting, standing, or being on all fours more comfortable and effective for progressing through labor. Positions depend on comfort and the advice of the healthcare provider.
- Myth: “Normal delivery is always safer for the baby than a cesarean.”
- Fact: Both vaginal and cesarean deliveries can be safe, depending on the circumstances. While a vaginal delivery is generally safer for the mother in the long term, sometimes a cesarean is medically necessary for the well-being of the mother or baby.
WS: “Balancing work, family, and personal health can be tough for women today. What advice would you give to women on how to prioritize their health amidst their busy schedules?”
VJ: Balancing work, family, and personal health is a challenge for many women, but it’s vital for overall well-being. Practical strategies include setting realistic goals, meal planning, scheduling short workouts, and staying hydrated.
1. Time Management and Planning
- Set Priorities: Health should be a top priority. This may mean re-evaluating your daily tasks and making room for activities that promote well-being.
- Schedule Workouts: Treat your workout like an important meeting or task. Block out specific times during the week for exercise, whether it’s a brisk walk in the morning, a quick home workout, or hitting the gym during lunch.
- Plan Meals: Meal prep in advance to save time during the week. Having healthy options ready can prevent unhealthy, last-minute food choices.
- Set Realistic Goals: Focus on small, achievable health goals. Instead of trying to overhaul your lifestyle all at once, focus on one change at a time, such as drinking more water or adding 10 minutes of stretching every morning.
2. Physical Activity
- Short and Effective Workouts: If time is limited, opt for short, intense workouts like high-intensity interval training (HIIT) or strength training that can be done in 20-30 minutes.
- Integrate Movement into Your Day: Take the stairs instead of the elevator, walk or bike to work if possible, or take short walking breaks throughout the day.
3. Nutrition
- Healthy Snacks: Keep nutritious snacks like nuts, fruits, yogurt, or whole-grain crackers at work to avoid the temptation of unhealthy vending machine options.
- Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day, especially if you’re busy and may forget to hydrate. Carry a reusable water bottle as a reminder.
- Balanced Meals: Focus on balanced meals with a mix of protein, fiber, and healthy fats, which can keep energy levels steady and avoid afternoon slumps. Try to limit processed foods, excess sugar, and caffeine.
4. Mental Health and Stress Management
- Practice Mindfulness: Take a few moments throughout the day for deep breathing, meditation, or a short mindfulness exercise to reduce stress.
- Take Breaks: Don’t skip breaks during your workday. Step outside, take a short walk, or even just close your eyes for a few minutes to recharge.
- Self-Compassion: Working women often feel guilty for taking time for themselves. It’s important to remember that taking care of your health ultimately benefits your productivity and ability to care for others.
5. Sleep and Rest
6. Delegate and Ask for Support
- Delegate Household Tasks: Share household responsibilities with your partner or family members.
- Workplace Support: If possible, talk to your employer about options for flexibility, whether it’s remote work or adjusting your schedule to accommodate health priorities.
WS: “Lastly, as a woman leading in a male-dominated field like medicine, what message would you like to share with young women aspiring to pursue careers in healthcare and make a lasting impact?”
VJ: Entering the healthcare field is not only about acquiring medical expertise but also about making a meaningful impact on people’s lives. Aspiring women in medicine should remain confident, empathetic, and driven by their passion. Your unique experiences and perspectives will contribute to shaping the future of healthcare.
This engaging and insightful discussion with Dr. Vaishali Jain sheds light on critical aspects of women’s health and inspires readers to be proactive about their well-being.
Her dedication to empowering women through medical care and education serves as a beacon of hope and strength in today’s fast-paced world.
-Team WS
