Dr. Nikita, MS, Obstetrics and Gynecology, presently working as an Assistant Professor in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology in SMMCH, Chennai. She is a multi-talented, dedicated budding O&G consultant. Her area of interest is high-risk pregnancy and minimal access surgery. She wishes to work for the well-being of the women hood.
Interview with Dr. Nikita
Q1. What inspired you to write “Conception to Confinement,” and what do you hope readers will gain from it?
Dr. Nikita:
- I decided to write this book because I have deep interest in pregnancy, childbirth, and parenting, leading me to write about it and share my knowledge and expertise.
- Pregnancy is a challenging and transformative experience so I want to offer support, guidance, and reassurance to expecting parents by providing practical information and emotional support.
Overall, the motivation to write this book on pregnancy is combination of expertise and a desire to support and empower others during this significant life stage.
- This book covers a wide range of topics essential for the well-being of expectant mothers and their babies, from pre-conceptional planning to post-delivery care.
Q2. As a seasoned expert in obstetrics and gynecology, what do you consider to be the most crucial advice for women planning for pregnancy?
Dr. Nikita: The most crucial advice for women planning pregnancy is to prioritize pre-conceptional care and understanding menstrual cycles for optimal conception timing. Pre-conceptional care involves maintaining a healthy lifestyle with balanced nutrition, regular exercise. Schedule a preconception visit with a gynaecologist to discuss health history, medications, and to ensure optimal health. Start taking folic acid supplements one month before conception to reduce the risk of neural tube defects. Screen for and treat any infections, update vaccinations, and consider genetic counselling if necessary. Attend to mental health and manage stress, and establish a support system.
Q3. Could you share a memorable experience from your career that influenced your approach to high-risk pregnancy and minimal access surgery?
Dr. Nikita: In 2021 when I was working in peripheral hospital in Mumbai, I handled patients with PPH and eclampsia etc in low resource setting with a limited quality of high-tech equipment made me interested in high risk pregnancy because every pregnancy and situation is unique, providing diverse challenges and opportunities for learning and growth.
Q4. In “Conception to Confinement,” you discuss the role of diet, exercise, and mental health during pregnancy. Could you elaborate on why these factors are so important?
Dr. Nikita: Diet, exercise and mental health during pregnancy are crucial for maternal and fetal well-being. Balanced diet provides essential nutrients for fetal development, while regular exercise supports maternal health and can lead to easier labour. Maintaining good mental health reduces stress, benefiting both mother and baby. These practices contribute to a healthier pregnancy, lower risk of complications like gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia and facilitate postpartum recovery. Prioritizing these factors ensures optimal outcomes for both mother and child, promoting long term health and well-being.
Q5. What are some common misconceptions about pregnancy that you aim to dispel in your book?
Dr. Nikita: There are some common misconceptions about pregnancy which we have dispelled in our book like pregnant women should eat for two people, baby will be born fair skinned if pregnant women consumes saffron milk and cord around the baby’s neck indicates caesarean delivery etc.
Q6. As a budding O&G consultant, what advice would you give to women who are planning for pregnancy or are currently expecting?
Dr. Nikita: As I have mentioned earlier, pre-conceptional counselling, folic acid intake, proper diet, exercise and adequate rest are important factors which contributes to a healthy pregnancy.
Q7. Where can readers order copies of ‘Conception to Confinement’?
Dr. Nikita: From Amazon, Flipkart, Googleplay, Bluerose website, kindle and from nearby book stores.
Q8. Are you on social media? How can our readers reach you?
Dr. Nikita: Yes, on facebook page (Dr Nikita) and Instagram (drnikita_gynaecologist)
Q9. What do you hope readers will take away from “Conception to Confinement,” and do you have any upcoming projects you can share with the readers?
Dr. Nikita: Readers will take away a wealth of information on various aspects of pregnancy and childbirth. They will gain insights into prenatal care, fetal development, labour and delivery, breastfeeding, postpartum recovery and newborn care. Overall, this book will empower readers with knowledge, preparation, and confidence as they embark on the journey of becoming parents.
Our upcoming project is on adolescent health where we will discuss about mental health, menstrual health, diet, lifestyle and other relevant issues of adolescent girls.
