Miscarriage is loss of a pregnancy during the first 20 weeks of gestation.  About 25% of women experience one at some point and about 15 or 20% of all pregnancies result in miscarriage.  It is usually thought of as a genetically abnormal fetus that occurs due to chance.  But, it is understandable that women often wonder if they have done something that could have caused the problem and often bear a significant burden of guilt and worry that they may have been the reason for the loss of their baby. 

Information from a Danish study, in which they interviewed 92,000 women, suggests that vigorous exercise during the first trimester greatly increases the risk of miscarriage.  Their study reported that women who exercised vigorously during the early weeks of pregnancy, especially those who participated in "high impact" activities such as jogging, were 3.7 times more likely to have a miscarriage.  They noted that women who swam were not at all at increased risk.  These risks disappeared completely, though, after the 18th week.

Does this study suggest that pregnant women should stop all exercise activity and become couch potatoes throughout their pregnancy?  No, but it does suggest that you should discuss your own exercise program with your doctor and consider whether the activities should be modified to less vigorous or lower impact exercise. 

I believe it does make sense that jogging and similar activities could jar the delicate, newly-forming embryo and result in loss of it.   But, up til now, we have had no scientific data on which to base a recommendation.  Now, it makes more sense than ever to advise pregnant women to modify their activities during the first trimester.  Daily walks, swimming, and use of exercise bikes, stairmasters, and elliptical trainers are all probably safe when used in moderation; but, to be on the safe side, I suggest giving running a rest.

As always, your comments are welcome...

Labels: healthy, human growth hormone, miscarriage, pregnancy, problems

One of the greatest benefits of the internet is its capacity to empower patients with information.  We all know that doctors are human and make mistakes. Furthermore, the office practice of medicine is often as much an art as a science.  When you bring a problem to the physician, especially if it is not straightforward or common, the history, physical, and laboratory evaluation often produces a "most likely" diagnosis, rather than a rock solid answer.  And, sometimes, that diagnosis is just plain wrong.

Physicians really have to have patients' help to practice optimal health care.  Patients who keep track of their own lab tests and medications, and who review their medical problems using information on the internet are more likely to discover errors, and are also more likely to suspect that a diagnosis that has been made is incorrect.

These five rules can help you figure out whether the diagnosis the physician has made is correct or not.  Take a look at these and, if your illness fits one or more of these criteria, consider going back and questioning your doctor further.  Or, consider getting a second opinion from another doctor.

Having a trusting relationship with your doctor is one of the most critical aspects of working through a difficult, potentially erroneous diagnosis.  If you trust him/her, it does not need to be a contentious or confrontational interaction.  In fact, your doctor will likely appreciate your concern about your own health and appreciate the assistance in arriving at the correct diagnosis.  If not, then its time for a new doctor anyway!

Your comments and dissenting opionions are always welcome...

Labels: drug, healthy, human growth hormone, problems