When it comes to planning a baby, most of the focus is usually on the mother. From taking vitamins to eating right and getting regular check-ups, mums-to-be are often guided carefully to protect their baby’s health. But what about fathers?

New research shows that a father’s age, diet, mental health, and even how much pollution he breathes in can also affect his child’s health—right down to the level of genes. This may come as a surprise, but science is now telling us that fathers play a much bigger role than was once believed in shaping their children’s future health.

That we pass on our genes to our children is widely known. Are those genes affected by our lifestyles and living environment? They certainly do. The study of how our environment influences our genes is known as epigenetics, and studies now show that fathers are as responsible as mothers for their babies’ health right from the stage of conception.

What Is Epigenetics—And Why Should Dads Care?

Our genes are like the instruction manual for how our bodies work. But epigenetics is about how those instructions are read. Think of it like a dimmer switch on a light—not changing the bulb, but turning the brightness up or down. These changes can be caused by things like stress, pollution, smoking, or an unhealthy diet.

Sperm cells, which carry the father’s DNA, are especially sensitive to these changes. A man’s body makes fresh sperm all the time—unlike a woman, who is born with all her eggs. This means a man’s environment and habits at a given time can affect the sperm he produces.

Suppose a father is exposed to things like air pollution, heavy stress, or poor nutrition. In that case, it can lead to subtle changes in how certain genes behave in his children—possibly affecting their growth, development, or risk of disease later in life.

It’s Not Just the Mother’s Age That Matters

In India, there’s a lot of talk about women having babies “too late”. But we now know that older fathers—usually over the age of 40—may also pass on higher risks of conditions like autism, schizophrenia, or certain learning disabilities. This isn’t about blame; it’s about being aware of the full picture so that families can make informed choices.

Older sperm tend to carry more genetic ‘spelling errors’ and also show more epigenetic changes—especially if the father has been exposed to harmful environments over time. This doesn’t mean one should be afraid, but it is important to know such facts.

Why This Matters for Public Health in India

In most Indian families, men are part of discussions around pregnancy or family planning unless there’s a problem with fertility. But in today’s world, where many urban men have long hours at work, experience high stress, pollution, smoking, and consume fast foods in daily diets, ignoring paternal health is a missed opportunity.

Just like women are advised to prepare their bodies before pregnancy, men too should be encouraged to take care of their health if they’re planning to have children—ideally three to six months before conception.

What Can Fathers Do?

The good news is that men can take simple, practical steps to improve their sperm health and support their future child’s wellbeing:

• Eat well – A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats
• Cut back on smoking and alcohol – These can harm sperm quality
• Sleep and exercise – Regular activity and good sleep help reduce stress
• Avoid pollution and chemicals – especially in workplaces or heavy traffic areas and wear a mask to restrict airborne pollutants
• See a doctor – Especially if planning a pregnancy after age 35 or 40

Small, steady improvements in lifestyle can make a big difference for your future child.

Rethinking Fatherhood

We often think fatherhood begins when the baby arrives. But the truth is, it starts much earlier, before pregnancy even begins. A father’s lifestyle and health in the months leading up to conception can shape his child’s health in surprising and powerful ways.

It’s time to include men in the conversation about healthy pregnancies, not merely as supporters, but as active participants in their child’s journey to health. Because dads matter too—right down to the genes.

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Founded in 2022, Baby Forest brings out the best of nature by offering products made up of all-natural ingredients. The brand wishes for every baby to enjoy the benefits of a forest, where Ayurveda was born, and where natural, organic nourishing solutions reside.

Located in the heart of Noida, the new store provides an immersive experience where customers can explore a diverse range of products designed to bring the best of wholesome wellness to your baby. From gentle skincare essentials to organic clothing, each product is crafted using age-old Ayurvedic formulations and thoughtfully displayed with informative details. Knowledgeable staff members are on hand to offer guidance and address queries, providing a personalized shopping experience. 

The store’s ambiance characterized by earthy tones and textures reflects the brand’s commitment to blending luxury, sustainability, and traditional Indian wellness practices.

Holistic Baby Care on Display: The store showcases the brand’s comprehensive range of baby care products, all meticulously crafted using Ayurvedic principles and natural ingredients. From gentle washes, nourishing hair oils, hydrating face cream, ayurvedic face wash to massage oils, and a specially designed BPA FREE patented feeding bottle, each item is imbued with the transformative power of Ayurveda.

A Journey of Discovery: The store layout is designed to guide customers on a journey of discovery. Informative displays highlight the benefits of each product, allowing parents to make informed choices that align with their child’s unique needs and Ayurvedic principles. Knowledgeable staff is also available to answer questions and provide expert guidance.

More Than Just Products: Baby Forest’s flagship store goes beyond simply selling products like the bath ritual collection, everyday essentials, and organic clothing, It also offers a captivating educational experience. Visitors can learn about the rich history and philosophy of Ayurveda, gaining a deeper appreciation for these time-honored practices. This holistic approach sets Baby Forest apart, empowering parents to embrace the power of Ayurveda in their child’s well-being.

A Haven for Wellness: The flagship store marks Baby Forest’s commitment to providing an exceptional customer experience. Here, luxury meets sustainability and ancient wisdom to create a haven of holistic well-being for babies. The store serves as an invitation for parents to embark on a transformative journey, seamlessly integrating Ayurveda into the fabric of their baby’s care.

The founder of Baby Forest said, ‘We are thrilled to open our new store in Noida, bringing the essence of Ayurveda closer to families. Our goal is to create a sanctuary where every product embodies the purity of nature, ensuring that each baby receives the gentlest care possible.’

Their offerings are; Made with natural ingredients, Authentic Ayurvedic Formulations, Paraben and sulphate-free, Cruelty Free, Derma Safe, and Handcrafted in India. Baby Forest Ayurveda invites you to discover a sanctuary of natural goodness that celebrates every baby’s journey with tenderness and care.

Address: Baby Forest, E-449, 3rd Floor, DLF Mall of India, Sector-18, Noida, Uttar Pradesh 201301

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PUNE: MomStory by Sahyadri Hospital stands as a beacon of hope and medical expertise as it successfully navigates the pregnancy journey of Mrs Sangeeta (name changed), a 37-year-old housewife from Indapur, Pune, despite her rare blood disorder – Factor XIII deficiency.

The unique challenges faced by Sangeeta, who had a history of recurrent abortions (four previous abortions, and this being her fifth pregnancy), were attributed to Factor XIII deficiency, an uncommon bleeding disorder characterized by heavy and prolonged menstrual bleeding (menorrhagia). She was referred to a hematologist at Sahyadri Hospitals for the evaluation of Antiphospholipid Syndrome (APLA) and the determination of the necessity for anticoagulation during pregnancy. Despite previous negative tests for APLA syndrome, further investigation, specifically through a specialized Factor XIII urea clot solubility test, revealed the actual diagnosis of Factor XIII deficiency. Additionally, there are usually concerns about infertility in bleeding disorder patients, but in this case, doctors at Sahyadri Hospital managed it smoothly.

Considering the condition is not common, the doctors at Sahyadri Hospital in Hadapsar created a special treatment plan. Throughout her pregnancy, Sangeeta received Cryoprecipitate, a blood component containing Factor XIII, at regular intervals. This ground-breaking approach ensured the successful progression of the pregnancy, ultimately resulting in the delivery of a healthy baby via Caesarean section on October 10, 2023.

Dr. Chandrakant Lahane, Haematologist at Sahyadri Super Speciality Hospitals, Hadapsar, Pune, highlighted the uniqueness of this case, stating, “Factor XIII deficiency is a rare bleeding disorder, occurring in approximately 1 in 5 million individuals. It is not easily diagnosed through routine coagulation tests, underscoring the importance of thorough investigation and specialized tests for the accurate diagnosis of rare bleeding disorders, particularly in the context of reproductive health. Previous doctors who were working on this case had suspected a thrombosis disorder, but our team at Sahyadri Hospitals correctly identified it as a bleeding disorder. Factor XIII deficiency brings unique challenges, especially during pregnancy. This achievement reinforces our commitment to providing specialized care and overcoming challenges in reproductive health.”

Dr. Archana Belvi, Obstetrician and Gynaecologist at MomStory by Sahyadri Hospital, Hadapsar played a pivotal role in Sangeeta’s antenatal care. Dr. Belvi stated, “Sangeeta was registered with us during her antenatal period. Given her diagnosis of Factor XIII deficiency, our team, in collaboration with Dr. Lahane, provided expert medical management. At MomStory, we address not only the medical aspects but also the psychological aspects of cases like these, ensuring comprehensive care under a single roof. With close monitoring of both fetal and maternal aspects throughout each stage of pregnancy, we successfully reached full term. At the time of delivery, all safety precautions were taken, and preventive measures were in place to avoid postpartum hemorrhage.”

Dr. Archana Belvi acknowledged the collaborative effort, stating, “The success of managing this case at MomStory by Sahyadri Hospital is a result of the combined efforts of the obstetrics team and the Haematology team and MomStory management.”

Sangeeta’s journey, marked by the hospital’s unwavering support and innovative treatment, sets a precedent for managing rare blood disorders during pregnancy. Following the delivery, both Sangeeta and her child were reported to be in good condition and were discharged after four days without experiencing any bleeding complications. This successful case exemplifies the impact of a collaborative and specialized approach in managing rare medical conditions, emphasizing Sahyadri Hospital’s commitment to delivering exceptional care to its patients.

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PUNE: A team of doctors at KEM Hospital, Pune successfully conducted a Piccolo Device Closure procedure on a 23-week-old baby (male) with Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA) condition. The Piccolo Device Closure procedure and that too on a 23-week baby is the first in Pune. The multi-departmental treatment was led by Paediatric Cardiologist Dr. Pankaj Sugaonkar and Senior Neonatologist Dr.Tushar Parikh. Survival of a 23-week premature baby in itself is rare; reported from Pune only once previously in 2018 by the same team at KEM Hospital Pune, led by Dr.Tushar Parikh. The hour-long procedure performed in the cath lab and led by experts was assisted by a team of neonatologists, sisters, and cath lab technicians.

Explaining the case Dr. Tushar Parikh, Senior Neonatologist at KEM Hospital, Pune said that the premature baby was in critical condition when born. As a part of our NICU procedure for such babies, we conduct point-of-care functional eco-cardiography. This is done to find out the cardio-vascular adaptation of the babies. The baby was diagnosed with Patent ductus arteriosus (PDA).

PDA is a congenital heart defect where there is a persistent opening between two major blood vessels. An opening called the ductus arteriosus is part of a baby’s blood flow system in the womb. It usually closes shortly after birth. If it remains open, it’s called a patent ductus arteriosus. A large opening if untreated can result in many complications.

Dr. Parikh added that in such cases we give a standard dose of medicines. However, the opening between the two blood vessels could not be closed. This was causing excess blood load on the lungs and the baby was ventilator-dependent for about one and a half months. We were just not able to get the baby off-ventilator due to this heart condition. After counseling the parents, we decided to go for the Piccolo Device Closure procedure. The weight of the baby had also increased from about 586 gm when born to 1600 gm during this time.

Dr. Pankaj Sugaonkar, Consultant Paediatric Cardiologist at KEM Hospital, Pune said that in this case, since the medicines were unable to close the opening the only option was surgery. Before Piccolo Device, heart surgeries were the only option to close this opening where incisions are made from the back side between the ribs. But in this case, the condition of the baby was extremely critical and challenging. The baby was constantly on ventilatory support and not stable for surgery. The innovative Piccolo Device Procedure is a boon for such babies and was lifesaving in this case.

Dr Sugaonkar added that the procedure is performed in a cath lab. The device is in the form of three disc-shaped or dumbbell-shaped layers made of metal. It is loaded in a delivery system and inserted through a small 3mm incision at the inguinal region and guided through vessels to the heart to seal the opening. To help this happen catheter and a sheath in a crossed manner are guided through the vessel on which the device is placed and taken on the descending thoracic aorta after which the device is taken to seal the opening. ‘ In an extremely premature neonate it all becomes very challenging’ he added.

In six to nine months, a tissue layer grows over the device and becomes part of the heart. This is a one-time procedure and the device need not be changed, nor are any medications required. The procedure has many advantages. Lesser surgical marks, lower risk of infection, and faster recovery make this procedure more viable in such critical cases.

The baby is now 10 months old and doing fine added Dr. Parikh. We are happy to see the baby doing fine. His regular follow-up echo showed the device was in place and the baby’s gaining weight, added Dr. Sugaonkar

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SMA Type 1 is a rare and complex disease that primarily affects infants, characterized by muscle wasting and progressive loss of motor function, hampering children’s movement, breathing, or swallowing functions. Without prompt intervention, it often leads to a tragically short lifespan. The Singh family is facing an overwhelming financial burden of treatment, with the current therapies, machines, and medicines already taking up their savings.

Medical experts have highlighted the broader issue of access to healthcare for rare and complex diseases in India, with treatment options for SMA Type 1 being limited. However, ground-breaking therapies have emerged that can significantly improve the quality of life and extend the lifespan of affected children. These treatments come at a staggering cost, making them inaccessible for many families in India.

The Singh family, with a travel business that is just returning to normalcy after the COVID-19 downturn, has found a glimmer of hope through Impact Guru, India’s leading medical crowdfunding platform, dedicated to helping them raise the necessary funds. Piyush Jain, Co-Founder and CEO of Impact Guru says that they are committed to helping families facing medical crises by providing a platform to connect with a community of donors who can contribute to life-saving treatments.

Earlier this year, another child, Kanav Jangra, needed one dose of the same injection to beat SMA. Kanav’s father started a crowdfunding campaign with Impact Guru, and around 1.5 lakh people, including noted officials from the government, film and TV personalities, and the general public successfully contributed to the little boy’s treatment.

The Singh family is hoping for the same generosity and unwavering support to offer their baby a chance at a brighter and healthier future. To support this brave family in their fight against SMA Type 1 and contribute to their medical crowdfunding campaign, please visit http://bit.ly/PawanjotSinghBaby.

Impact Guru, incubated at Harvard Innovation Labs USA in 2014, is India’s leading online medical fundraising platform, which raises money for medical expenses for critical illnesses/diseases such as cancer, transplants, accidents, and rare diseases, etc. With a donor community of over 30 lakhs, Impact Guru has helped over 30,000+ patients and has impacted almost 5 lakh lives. Impact Guru has been awarded and recognized by esteemed industry bodies nationally and globally.

Photo by JESHOOTS.COM on Unsplash

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BENGALURU: Himalaya Wellness Company, one of India’s leading wellness brands, has announced the launch of a new addition to their baby care range, Crème Cleansing BABY BAR, with pH 5.5, that is enriched by the nourishing properties of Coconut Milk Protein and a blend of other natural ingredients. The baby bar is specially formulated to a pH balance of 5.5 for newborns and babies with sensitive skin and is 100% soap free. The rich, creamy lather mildly cleanses while the goodness of natural moisturizers (herb-oil-butter complex) helps keep skin nourished, protected, and moisturized post- baby’s bath.

Commenting on the launch, Mr. Chakravarthi N V, Director – BabyCare, Himalaya Wellness Company, shares, “With a deep love for babies, we are thrilled to present our newest addition to our range of baby personal care products: the Crème Cleansing BABY BAR. Himalaya BabyCare understands that a baby’s delicate skin needs special care. All our products are carefully formulated, keeping the specific needs of babies in mind and their safety at the forefront. New mothers are concerned about finding the right products that meet the specific skin care needs of their babies. Infant skin is delicate and could be sensitive and prone to atopic dermatitis. Crème Cleansing BABY BAR with 5.5 pH is a cleansing bar enriched with the goodness of natural ingredients ideal for gentle cleansing of newborns and babies with sensitive skin, babies prone to atopic dermatitis, skin irritation, redness, and dryness. As the trusted companions of mothers through their parenting journey, Himalaya BabyCare is committed to delivering the best of Nature’s care for babies and a hassle-free and worry-free baby care experience for moms/parents.“

“Maintaining the pH of a baby’s skin and protecting the acid mantle (skin’s first line defense) is of the utmost importance. Using natural ingredients in baby care products helps avoid skin irritation and other skin conditions. Coconut Milk Protein, Mahua Butter, Coconut Oil, and Aloe Vera are time-tested natural ingredients known for their moisturizing, soothing, and nourishing properties and are gentle enough for daily use on babies’ delicate skin”, says, Dr. Prathibha Babshet, Ayurveda Expert, R & D, Himalaya Wellness Company.

Himalaya Crème Cleansing BABY BAR is enriched with the goodness of plant-derived Coconut Protein, which moisturizes baby’s sensitive skin and helps keep the skin protected and healthy. Coconut Oil is known to improve the skin barrier function. Mahua Butter, a well-known moisturizer, helps lock in moisture and reduce post-bath dryness, and Aloe Vera helps soothe and moisturize a baby’s skin. Himalaya Crème Cleansing BABY BAR is free from Parabens and Synthetic Colors and safe for newborns and babies with sensitive skin.

The product can be found in 75g and 100g sizes at various general trade outlets throughout India, as well as on e-commerce platforms, in Himalaya retail stores, and on the official Himalaya website.

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Infertility can be an emotionally and physically draining journey for couples desperately longing for a child. Mrs. Maya Phuge faced this difficult battle head-on, undergoing numerous allopathic treatments over the years without success. However, her life took a remarkable turn when she discovered the renowned Matruved Clinic, a leading clinic specializing in Ayurvedic treatments.

Dr. Sujit Shinde, Obstetrician, and Gynecologist at Matruved Clinic highlights the significance of Ayurveda in treating infertility: “Ayurveda offers a holistic approach to fertility, addressing the root causes and rejuvenating the reproductive system. With personalized care and ancient wisdom, Ayurvedic treatments bring new hope and joy to couples facing infertility challenges. At Matruved Clinic, we are dedicated to comprehensive Ayurvedic solutions that empower couples on their path to parenthood after years of disappointment.“

Ayurveda, an ancient holistic healing system originating from India, holds a significant place in the field of reproductive health. It emphasizes the importance of harmonizing the body, mind, and spirit to achieve optimal well-being and fertility. With its personalized approach, Ayurveda aims to address the root causes of infertility by restoring balance and vitality to the body.

Matruved Clinic’s team of experienced Ayurvedic practitioners carefully assessed the patient’s complex medical history and meticulously designed a tailored treatment plan, utilizing the ancient wisdom of Ayurveda. Ayurvedic Panchakarma therapy, a rigorous cleansing treatment based on early Ayurvedic writings, was the cornerstone of her treatment. This therapy aims to detoxify and rejuvenate the body, mind, and spirit, enabling the body to rid itself of stress and toxins while promoting balance and well-being.

The comprehensive Ayurvedic treatment provided by Matruved Clinic played a pivotal role in the patient’s journey toward motherhood. By targeting the underlying imbalances in her body and revitalizing her reproductive system, Ayurveda provided a natural and effective solution to her long-standing infertility struggles.

With unwavering determination, Mrs. Maya Phuge diligently followed the Ayurvedic treatment protocol at Matruved Clinic, embracing the holistic approach of Ayurveda to restore balance and vitality to her body. The profound impact of the treatment became evident as her overall health and well-being improved, reigniting her hopes of conceiving.

The defining moment arrived after years of persistence and resilience—She received the long-awaited news of her pregnancy. The effectiveness of Ayurvedic treatment at Matruved Clinic had finally granted her the gift of motherhood, fulfilling her deepest desires and dreams.

Matruved Clinic has consistently demonstrated exceptional expertise and compassion in providing personalized Ayurvedic treatments for infertility. Their approach, deeply rooted in ancient Ayurvedic principles, aims to address the underlying causes of infertility and restore balance to the body, paving the way for natural conception.

The success story of Mrs. Maya Phuge resonates with countless couples struggling with infertility, offering a ray of hope amidst adversity. It emphasizes the potential of Ayurvedic treatments, such as Panchakarma therapy, to bring about life-changing results when conventional approaches fall short.

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