06/05/2025

LYFE TUESDAY | MAY 6, 2025

23

C ONGRATULATIONS on your pregnancy! The first step would be to confirm your pregnancy. Most people do a urine pregnancy test. These tests are very sensitive. It is therefore possible for you to get a positive result even when you are not pregnant if your urine is contaminated even with a miniscule amount of blood. Go and see your doctor. Your doctor may be able to do a blood test to confirm it. Your doctor may also do an ultrasound examination to check for your pregnancy if you are more than six weeks from your last menstrual period. If you are more than six weeks, your doctor would be able to see your pregnancy and tell you if your pregnancy is inside or outside your uterus. The doctor would be able to measure your baby and give you an estimate on the gestation of the baby, as well as the estimated date of delivery. The doctor would also be able to show you your baby’s heart beat. It is important to know the location of your pregnancy. If it is outside your uterus, it is known as an ectopic pregnancy. It can be a dangerous event that can even lead to death. It is important that you are referred to an obstetrician if that occurs, for your further treatment. First blood test What are the blood tests that would be done when I see my doctor? Sacrifices pay off The fulfilment of motherhood, however, makes up for the sacrifices. Watching their children grow up has been the most joyful reward for all of them. “Seeing my daughter thrive has been incredibly fulfilling. Each month brings new milestones and I love witnessing all her little achievements,” Abby contended. “When my baby smiles at me or when she reaches out for me, these moments melt my heart every time. Watching her grow and discover new things is fulfilling and I love knowing I am there for her through it all,” shared Low. Experienced mother Ayu finds her tight-knit relationship with her children to be a highlight, in addition to witnessing how far they have come. “My oldest does not live with me but still communicates with me regularly. Even for minor things such as picking outfits, they would video call me to get my opinion. These kinds of gestures bring me the most joy.” Take it slow Now that all of them are thriving mothers, gradual and empathetic growth is something they advised for young mothers. While perfection is tempting, they advised young mothers to experience motherhood one step at a time. “I know how tough it can be. Some days, just getting out of the house feels like a monumental effort and that is okay. The fact that you are here, doing your best is what truly matters,” encouraged Abby. “Do not be too hard on yourself. We all have our pace. It is okay to not have everything figured out. It is all about loving your little one, trusting your instincts and giving yourself

GYNAE SAYS

See your doctor as soon as possible after finding out you are pregnant. – 123RFPIC

Reacting to good news

o Expecting? Steps on what to do next

grace along the way,” advised Low. “It is not going to be an easy journey. Hence, practice self-care. When you love yourself, you will be able to love your children. It will benefit them tremendously,” Ayu said. Simple celebration As for their plans for Mother’s Day, all three have nothing big planned, only looking at a casual celebration with their loved ones. “I will be spending it with my baby, enjoying my first Mother’s Day with her. Just some quiet moments together,” shared Abby. “I am just going to take it as it comes. I am sure I will spend it with my daughter, soaking in the moments and hopefully get some rest if I am lucky,” expressed Low. As for Ayu, she will most likely get wishes from her children on Whatsapp and a simple dinner at her favourite restaurant. Your blood group will be important when you donate or receive a blood transfusion. The Rhesus status, if negative, has its concerns. If you are negative and your husband is positive, then you are at risk of developing antibodies against your babies. You need to see your doctor any time if you have any vaginal bleeding. You will also require anti D injections at 28 weeks pregnancy and at delivery as a preventive measure. 0 Infective screen tests You will also be tested for syphilis, 0 Full blood count This is to see if you have enough red blood cells (a decrease is known as anaemia) and all the necessary components in your blood. 0 Blood group and Rhesus status

HIV and hepatitis B. If positive, there will be special treatment to ensure the best possible outcome to your unborn baby. Please see your doctor as soon as

possible when you are pregnant for all the above reasons. Enjoy your pregnancy with a safe set of hands guiding you through the delightful journey.

This article is contributed by consultant obstetrician & gynaecologist, maternal fetal medicine Datuk Dr H. Krishna Kumar.

From page 22 Rewarding life experience

Ayu has seven children. – PICS COURTESY OF WHY NOT STUDIO

Ayu is usually treated to a meal at her favourite restaurant during Mother’s Day. – PIC COURTESY OF AYU RAFIKAH MOHAMMAD AHMEE

Ayu (right) has been a mother for 24 years. – PIC COURTESY OF SINEFOTO STUDIO