Planning a child: see a Dentist

Strange as it may sound, if having trouble getting pregnant, it may be worthwhile to see a dentist, as the problem could be a gum disease. This was reported at the European Society of Human Reproduction and Embryology in July 2013 by researchers from the University of Western Australia.

A study from Australia involving more than 3,500 pregnant women, found that those who had gum disease took about two months longer to conceive than the average among women who didn’t have gum disease. The delay was more than a year among non-Caucasian women.

The study also reiterated that gum disease is known to cause inflammation that can enter the blood stream and has been linked to heart disease, type 2 diabetes, respiratory and kidney disease and pregnancy problems including miscarriage and premature birth.

Hence, brushing and flossing the teeth is not only good for dental wellness and to prevent a host of diseases but also to concieve a child.

The bottom line is that if planning a child, stop smoking, avoid alcohol, maintain a healthy diet and weight, take folic acid and see a dentist.

Dr. Ajay Sati.

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