Dyme Hospitals & Maternity

08/08/2025

FOOD & NUTRITION IN PREGNANCY

During pregnancy, proper nutrition is essential for the health of both the mother and the developing baby. The mother’s diet must provide enough energy and nutrients to support fetal growth, changes in her own body, and preparation for breastfeeding.

1. Importance of Good Nutrition in Pregnancy
- Supports healthy fetal development (organs, brain, bones).
- Maintains maternal health and prevents deficiencies.
- Reduces risk of pregnancy complications like anemia, preterm birth, and low birth weight.
- Prepares the mother’s body for lactation.

2. Key Nutrient Requirements
• Protein
Builds fetal tissues, placenta, maternal blood, and amniotic fluid.
Lean meat, poultry, fish, eggs, legumes, nuts, dairy.
• Iron
Prevents anemia, supports increased blood volume, helps oxygen transport.
•Red meat, liver (limited), leafy greens, beans, fortified cereals.
•Folic Acid (Vitamin B9)
Prevents neural tube defects, supports cell division.
Dark green leafy vegetables, beans, fortified grains, citrus fruits.
• Calcium
Builds fetal bones and teeth, maintains maternal bone health.
• Milk, cheese, yogurt, leafy greens, fortified plant milks.
• Vitamin D
Aids calcium absorption and bone development.
Sunlight, fatty fish, fortified milk.
• Iodine
Supports brain and thyroid development.
Iodized salt, dairy, seafood.
• Omega-3 Fatty Acids
Supports brain and eye development.
Fatty fish (low-mercury), flaxseeds, walnuts.
• Vitamin C
Enhances iron absorption, aids tissue repair.
Citrus fruits, berries, tomatoes, peppers.
Fiber
Prevents constipation.
Whole grains, fruits, vegetables, legumes.
• Water
Maintains amniotic fluid and supports increased blood volume.
Safe drinking water, soups, fruits with high water content.

3. Energy Needs
First trimester: No major increase in calories; focus on quality.
Second trimester: ~+300 kcal/day.
Third trimester: ~+450 kcal/day.

4. Foods to Avoid in Pregnancy
- Raw or undercooked meat, fish, and eggs (risk of infection).
- Unpasteurized milk and cheeses (risk of listeria).
- High-mercury fish (e.g., shark, swordfish).
- Excess caffeine (>200 mg/day).
- Alcohol and recreational drugs (harmful to fetal development).
- Excess salt and processed foods.

5. Healthy Eating Tips for Pregnant Women
• Eat small, frequent meals to prevent nausea and heartburn.
• Include a variety of foods from all food groups daily.
• Take prenatal supplements (folic acid, iron, etc.) as advised by a healthcare provider.
• Stay hydrated.
• Avoid skipping meals.

6. Special Considerations
✓ Morning sickness: Eat dry crackers before getting out of bed, avoid greasy foods.
✓ Constipation: Increase fiber and water intake.
✓ Anemia: Combine iron-rich foods with vitamin C sources for better absorption.
✓ Gestational diabetes: Limit refined carbs, focus on whole grains and balanced meals.

For more information and help visit:-
Dyme Hospital & Maternity
10, Edem Urua Street
( Off Nsikak Eduok Avenue. 2 lanes )
Uyo. Akwa Ibom State.
Tel.- 08034713240
Email- dymehospital@gmail.com

01/08/2025

ROLES THAT MEN PLAY IN PREGNANCY

Men play vital support roles during pregnancy, childbirth, and beyond. Here are some ways men can provide emotional, physical, and practical support:

Emotional Support
1. Be present and listen: Be available to listen to your partner's concerns, feelings, and needs.
2. Validate emotions: Acknowledge and validate your partner's emotions, even if you don't fully understand them.
3. Provide reassurance: Offer reassurance and support during times of anxiety or uncertainty.

Physical Support
1. Accompany to prenatal appointments: Attend prenatal appointments and be an active participant in the pregnancy journey.
2. Help with physical tasks: Assist with physical tasks, such as grocery shopping, household chores, and lifting heavy objects.
3. Provide comfort measures: Offer comfort measures like massages, warm baths, or helping with sleep positions.

Practical Support
1. Help with meal preparation: Assist with meal preparation and cooking to ensure a healthy diet.
2. Manage household responsibilities: Share household responsibilities, such as laundry, cleaning, and childcare (if applicable).
3. Support financial planning: Participate in financial planning and budgeting for the baby's arrival.

Preparation for Fatherhood
1. Attend parenting classes: Attend parenting classes or workshops to prepare for fatherhood.
2. Read about pregnancy and parenting: Educate yourself about pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting.
3. Build a support network: Connect with other expectant fathers or join a support group to build a network of peers.

During Labor and Childbirth
1. Be a birth partner: Attend the birth and provide emotional support during labor and delivery.
2. Help with breathing and relaxation techniques: Assist with breathing and relaxation techniques during labor.
3. Support decision-making: Support your partner in making informed decisions about labor and delivery.

After the Baby Arrives
1. Help with newborn care: Assist with newborn care, such as feeding, changing diapers, and soothing.
2. Support breastfeeding: Support your partner with breastfeeding, if applicable.
3. Share household responsibilities: Continue to share household responsibilities to ensure a smooth transition to parenthood.

Remember:-
- Every pregnancy and parenting journey is unique.
- Be flexible, communicate openly with your partner,
- Prioritize emotional support throughout the process.

For more information and help visit:-
Dyme Hospital & Maternity
10, Edem Urua Street
( Off Nsikak Eduok Avenue. 2 lanes )
Uyo. Akwa Ibom State.
Tel.- 08034713240
Email- dymehospital@gmail.com

01/08/2025

Big shout out to my newest top fans! ♶ Esther Alex, Future Akpan, Eno Abaessien, Emem Jackson, Faith Unyime, Akan Mark, Lizzy Angel, Udeme Essien, Martha Nwakaego, Odiong Idim, Uju Blessing, Mary Clowes, Chioma Itoro Usoro, Christopher James, Desire Ime George, Anieti Tom, Akwaeno Akpan. Drop a comment to welcome them to our community, fans.

12/07/2025

WHY HUSBANDS DON'T ATTEND POST/ ANTENATAL CARE VISITS.

The benefits of husbands being around for postnatal/ antenatal care visits cannot be overemphasized.
There are challenges why they don't attend visits:

1. Very busy schedules on the side of husbands can make them unable to attend this very educative event.

2. Myths and primitive thinking that antenatal/ postnatal care visit is solely for women. This should be discouraged and proper awareness should be created to enlighten the men

3. Financial scarcity/ poverty can limit them from coming as they will suggest that the limited resources be used by wives to participate in the antenatal care class.

4. Illiteracy/ poor insights can make them unwilling to attend.

5. Fear being in the mist of women can discouraged them

6. Ill health in some of them can be challenging as only healthy ones can Carter for their wives

7. Excessive delay at the health facility could limit them also. They feel it's a waste of time

8. Care free attitude by some men who think the antenatal care visits is strictly a woman's business. Hence, they prefer reported speeches which are likely to be distorted by dishonest wives.

9. When there's distrust in child paternity, they are unlikely to attend

10. Conflict among couples in the family can prevent many men from coming along with their wives for ante/ Post natal care visits since they are less likely to co-operate.

What are your opinion why honey don't attend post/ antenatal with you??
Please send in your comments

For more information visit:-
Dyme Hospital and maternity.
10, Edem Urua street
Off Nsikak Eduok Avenue (2 lanes )
Uyo,
Nigeria
Tel: + 234 803 471 3240
E-mail: dymehospital@gmail.com

22/06/2025

EFFECTS OF HERBS ON PREGNANCY

The use of herbs during pregnancy can have various effects, both positive and negative.
It's essential for pregnant individuals to approach herbal remedies with caution and to consult healthcare professionals before using any herbs. Here are some key points regarding the impact of herbs on pregnancy:

Potential Benefits

1. Nausea Relief: Some herbs, like ginger, are commonly used to alleviate morning sickness. Ginger tea or ginger candies may help reduce nausea in early pregnancy.
2. Digestive Support: Herbs such as peppermint and chamomile can aid digestion and may help with gastrointestinal discomfort.
3. Relaxation and Sleep: Herbs like lavender and lemon balm may promote relaxation and improve sleep quality, which can be beneficial during pregnancy.

Potential Risks

1. Uterine Stimulation: Certain herbs, such as raspberry leaf, are thought to tone the uterus and may stimulate contractions. While some women use raspberry leaf tea in the later stages of pregnancy, it should be approached with caution.
2. Hormonal Effects: Some herbs can have hormonal effects that may not be safe during pregnancy. For example, herbs like black cohosh and d**g quai are contraindicated due to their potential to stimulate uterine contractions.
3. Toxicity: Some herbs can be toxic or harmful during pregnancy. For instance, herbs like pennyroyal and comfrey are known to be unsafe and should be avoided.
4. Interactions with Medications: Herbs can interact with prescription medications, which can pose risks during pregnancy. It's crucial to inform healthcare providers about any herbal use.

General Recommendations
- Consult Healthcare Providers: Always discuss with a healthcare provider before starting any herbal remedies during pregnancy.
- Research and Caution: Be aware of the specific herbs being considered and their safety profiles during pregnancy.
- Moderation: If using herbs that are considered safe, do so in moderation and monitor for any adverse effects.

Conclusion
While some herbs may offer benefits during pregnancy, many can pose risks. It is vital to prioritize safety and seek professional guidance when considering herbal remedies during this critical time.

For more information and help visit:-
Dyme Hospital & Maternity
10, Edem Urua Street
( Off Nsikak Eduok Avenue. 2 lanes )
Uyo. Akwa Ibom State.
Tel.- 08034713240
Email- dymehospital@gmail.com

10/06/2025

BENEFITS OF PHOTOTHERAPY TO NEWBORN

👉🏽Phototherapy is treatment with a special type of light (not sunlight) to newborn

👉🏽It's used to treat newborn jaundice ( yellowness of the skin, eyes) by making it easier for your baby's liver to break down and remove the bilirubin from your baby's blood.

👉🏽Phototherapy is very safe as it aims at exposing your baby's skin to as much light as possible.

👉🏽Phototherapy is an effective treatment modality for newborn jaundice and for several diseases including skin disorders

If your Babies are jaundiced:

👉🏽Discuss with your doctor immediately the baby is born for phototherapy

👉🏽Ensure that the jaundice is cleared and the baby is okay before leaving the care center

👉🏽Ensure that your doctor provide you with other treatment options including exchange blood transfusion if need be.

👉🏽Ensure temperature check of your baby before discharge home and sort adjoining issues with the baby before going home.

👉🏽 Mothers are advised to treat their babies jaundice as it can lead to liver pathology, Brain dysfunction, low IQ and death if not handled.

👉🏽Stick to doctor's appointment for postnatal care and return to care of jaundice resurface.

NB: Dyme Hospital is equiped with a functional phototherapy machine for our newborn care and a consulted Paediatrician 🤛

For more information visit Dyme Hospital and maternity 10 Edem Urua street Uyo Akwa Ibom state Nigeria.👌🏾👌🏾🕺🏿
Email: dymehospital@gmail.com

03/06/2025

My hands are filled with the blessings of the Lord........

In-patient and out-patient care in General medicine, O &G, Surgery, Pediatrics, Scan, Lab and ECG.

28/05/2025

UTERINE FIBROIDS

Uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas, are non-cancerous growths that develop in or around the uterus. They are common in women of reproductive age and can cause symptoms like:

Symptoms
1. Heavy menstrual bleeding: Prolonged or excessive bleeding during periods.
2. Pelvic pain or pressure: Discomfort or feeling of pressure in the pelvic area.
3. Frequent urination: Fibroids can press on the bladder, leading to frequent urination.
4. Constipation: Large fibroids can press on the bowels, causing constipation.

Treatment Options
1. Watchful waiting: Monitoring symptoms and fibroid growth.
2. Medications: Hormonal treatments or pain management medications.
3. Surgery: Options like myomectomy (removing fibroids) or hysterectomy (removing the uterus).
4. Minimally invasive procedures: Techniques like utrine artery embolism or focused ultrasound surgery,may be used.

Complications
1. Severe bleeding: Heavy menstrual bleeding can lead to anemia.
2. Pain and discomfort: Large fibroids can cause pelvic pain, back pain, and discomfort during s*x.
3. Infertility: Fibroids can interfere with ovulation, fertilization, or implantation of the embryo.
4. Pregnancy complications: Fibroids can increase the risk of miscarriage, preterm labor, or placental abruption.
5. Urinary or bowel problems: Large fibroids can press on the bladder or bowels, leading to urinary frequency, constipation, or bowel obstruction.

Importance of Medical Consultation
If you're experiencing symptoms or concerns, it's essential to consult a doctor for proper diagnosis and treatment. They can help determine the best course of action for your specific situation.

For more information and help visit:-
Dyme Hospital & Maternity
10, Edem Urua Street
( Off Nsikak Eduok Avenue. 2 lanes )
Uyo. Akwa Ibom State.
Tel.- 08034713240
Email- dymehospital@gmail.com

15/05/2025

EMERGENCIES IN PREGNANCY

Emergencies in pregnancy are life- threatening medical problems that occur during pregnancies, labour and delivery.

TYPES OF EMERGENCIES

1. LEAKAGE OF AMNIOTIC FLUIDS.

CAUSES:
• Infections
• Placenta abruption
• During obstetric interventions
• Cervical dilatation
• Weakness of the fetal membrane

2 . BLEEDING IN PREGNANCY
Bleeding in pregnancy is the bleeding from the va**na in pregnancy
CAUSES:
• Placenta abnormalities
• Bleeding from legions or fibroids
• Trauma

3. LEG PAIN AND SWELLING IN PREGNANCY
Is the swelling/leg pains during pregnancy.
CAUSES:
• Normal / Physiological
• DVT
• Pre-eclampsia
• Systemic diseases like heart / kidney
• Pelvic mass / malignancy
• Trauma

4. FAINTING EPISODES IN PREGNANCY
Fainting is a sudden loss of consciousness due to global cerebral hypoperfusion
CAUSES:
• Emotion
• Fatigue
• Prolonged standing
• Chronic illness
• Prolong bleeding
• Hypotension

5. FEVER IN PREGNANCY
Fever in pregnancy can be caused by a lot of things.
CAUSES:
• Infections like malaria, typhoid fever, URTI, PID, wounds.

6. PAINFULL UTERINE CONTRACTIONS
This occurs during labour and delivery
CAUSES:
• Labour

7. ABNORMAL VAGINAL DISCHARGE IN PREGNANCY
This can also occur in pregnancy
CAUSES:
• Normal
• Infections
• Amniotic fluid discharge.

8. FREQUENCY OF MICTURITION AND ACUTE RETENTION OF URINE
This is frequent urination or retention of urine during pregnancy.
CAUSES:
• Infections
• Abnormal uterus due to pressure on the bladder
• Retention of urine can be from reduced intake of fluid or due to anaesthesia after surgery.

WHAT TO DO IN-CASE OF EMERGENCY
1. Contact your care provider via phone, sms etc for immediate instructions
2. Move to your hospital / clinic immediately
3. Time is very important
4. Avoid delay.

For further information, visit:-

Dyme Hospital & Maternity
10, Edem Urua street
(Off Nsikak Eduok Avenue. 2 lanes)
Uyo
Tel.- 08034713240
Email: dymehospital@gmail.com

09/05/2025

BABY HEARTBEAT: ITS IMPLICATIONS

Your baby heartbeat changes throughout the course of pregnancy.

Throughout pregnancy, your baby’s heart will continue to develop. A fetal heartbeat starts at between 90 and 110 bpm during the first weeks of pregnancy from 8 weeks of pregnancy. It will increase and peak at around weeks 10 to 12, between 140 and 160 bpm.

After that, a normal fetal heartbeat is considered between 120 and 160 bpm.

Baby heartbeat more than 160bpm signify a problem as your baby may be in distress. Also a baby heartbeat less than 120 is a problem too as a baby may be deteriorating.
Normal heartbeat is between 120-160bpm

Your doctor may be concerned if your baby’s heartbeat is too slow, too fast, or is irregular. If so, there’s a rare chance your baby could have a heart condition. That’s why your doctor will monitor your baby’s heartbeat at every antenatal visits

*TIPS*
1.During each of your antenatal visit, asked your doctor to do Scan and inquire your baby's heartbeat

2.Avoid triggers of low or high baby heartbeat such as alcohol intake, caffeine containing beverages, herbal concoctions, beer etc

3.Eat healthily fruits and vegetables

4.Drink more water and water containing fruits such as watermelon, cucumber etc

5.Ensure adequate rest

6.Be regular with Antenatal visits and stick to doctor's appointment.

7.Ensure you take your routine medications as prescribed, avoid taking over the counter medications.

8.Discuss any other issues with your doctor.

For more information, visit :-
Dyme Hospital and Maternity
10, Edem Urua street
Off Nsikak Eduok Avenue (2 lanes)
Uyo.
Akwa Ibom State. Nigeria
Tel. 08034713340
Email: dymehospital@gmail.com

01/05/2025

FETAL DISTRESS

Fetal distress, also known as fetal compromise, refers to a situation during pregnancy, labor, or delivery where the baby's well-being is compromised.

Causes
1. Placental insufficiency: Reduced blood flow or oxygen to the baby.
2. Umbilical cord problems: Compression or prolapse.
3. Maternal health issues: High blood pressure, diabetes, or other conditions.
4. Fetal growth restriction: Baby not growing at a normal rate.

Signs
1. Abnormal heart rate: Fetal heart rate monitoring shows concerning patterns.
2. Decreased fetal movement: Mother notices reduced movement or kicking.
3. Meconium-stained amniotic fluid: Baby passes stool before birth.

Consequences
1. Birth asphyxia: Lack of oxygen can lead to brain damage or other complications.
2. Cesarean delivery: May be necessary to ensure baby's safety.

Monitoring and Intervention
1. Fetal heart rate monitoring: Continuous monitoring during labor.
2. Ultrasound and biophysical profiles: Assessing fetal well-being during pregnancy.
3. Prompt intervention: Healthcare providers may intervene with oxygen, position changes, or delivery.

Fetal distress requires prompt attention and monitoring to ensure the baby's well-being and prevent potential complications.
Here are some preventive measures that can help reduce the risk of fetal distress:

Before Pregnancy
1. Preconception care: Managing pre-existing medical conditions, such as diabetes or hypertension.
2. Healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy weight, diet, and exercise routine.

During Pregnancy
1. Regular prenatal care: Attending scheduled appointments and following healthcare provider's guidance.
2. Healthy diet: Eating a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients.
3. Staying hydrated: Drinking plenty of water.
4. Avoiding harmful substances: Quitting smoking, avoiding alcohol and illicit drugs.
5. Managing stress: Engaging in stress-reducing activities, such as meditation or yoga.

During Labor
1. Continuous fetal monitoring: Monitoring fetal heart rate during labor.
2. Position changes: Regularly changing positions to improve blood flow and reduce pressure on the umbilical cord.
3. Adequate hydration: Ensuring mother stays hydrated during labor.
4. Pain management: Effective pain management can help reduce stress and discomfort.

Other Measures
1. Identifying high-risk pregnancies: Closely monitoring pregnancies with pre-existing medical conditions or other risk factors.
2. Prompt medical attention: Seeking immediate medical attention if concerns arise during pregnancy or labor.

While these measures can help reduce the risk of fetal distress, it's essential to work closely with a healthcare provider to ensure the best possible outcomes.

For more information and help visit:-
Dyme Hospital & Maternity
10, Edem Urua Street
( Off Nsikak Eduok Avenue. 2 lanes )
Uyo. Akwa Ibom State.
Tel.- 08034713240
Email- dymehospital@gmail.com

24/04/2025

CARE OF UMBILICAL CORD IN NEWBORNS

When your baby is born, the umbilical cord is cut and there is a stump left.

1. The stump should dry and fall off by the time your baby is 10 to 15 days old.

2. Keep the stump clean with gauze and water only. Sponge bathe the rest of your baby, as well.

3. Do not put your baby in a tub of water until the stump has fallen off.

4. Do not put toothpastes, cow dung, banana flesh in the stump

5. Use umbilical cord GEL on the stump twice daily.

6. Let the stump fall off naturally. Do not try to pull it off, even if it is only hanging on by a thread.

7. Watch the umbilical cord stump for infection., the infection can spread quickly.

SIGNS OF INFECTION AT THE STUMP INCLUDE:

a. Foul-smelling, yellow drainage from the stump

b. Redness, swelling, or tenderness of the skin around the stump

c. Poor feeding

d. Fever of 100.4°F (38°C) or higher

e. Lethargy

f. Floppy, poor muscle tone

g. Active bleeding

h. Draining a light-yellowish fluid.

TIPS ON HOW TO CARE FOR THE STUMP INCLUDE:

1. Keep the stump dry. Expose the stump to air to help dry out the base.

2. Don't swab the stump with rubbing alcohol.

3. Clean up any fluids around the stump

4. Clean up any stool that gets on the cord.

5. Stick with sponge baths.

6. Let the stump fall off on its own.

7. Avoid putting cow dung, toothpaste, cassava water, banana flesh, native herbs, licking stump with mouth, saliva etc.

8. Discuss with your doctor on best GEL of the cord.

For more information visit:-
Dyme Hospital and Maternity
10, Edem Urua street
(Off Nsikak Eduok Ave. 2 lanes)
Uyo.
Tel.- 08034713240
Email: dymehospital@gmail.com