Kids love going around places, playing, and exploring new things. While all of this is fun, it can expose them to diseases. When they come from school, they are exposed to various germs through air and transmission or direct contact. They also touch surfaces a lot, then their face, then their mouths. This makes it easy for illness to spread. While it is impossible to prevent illness completely, there could be several measures that can reduce the risk and support recovery.

Vaccination

Vaccination is a critical step in preventing severe illnesses. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) and the American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) recommend following an established vaccine schedule. Vaccines protect against life-threatening infections, including those that disproportionately affect infants and young children.

Good Hygiene

While no vaccine can prevent one from common cold, good hygiene practices can significantly reduce germ transmission. Parents must therefore encourage their children to wash their hands after touching toys, hard surfaces, and other people. What is more important is proper hand hygiene, as handwashing with soap and water is the most effective way to eliminate germs.

ALSO READ: This Spring, Make Hand Hygiene A Priority, Says Expert

The Hygiene Hypothesis: Does Exposure to Germs Strengthen Immunity?

There are several research that suggests that early exposure to germs may help develop a child’s immune system, a concept known as the "hygiene hypothesis." However, many immunologists argue against this theory, noting that children naturally encounter enough germs to build immunity without unnecessary exposure to unsanitary conditions. A balanced approach ensures children develop a strong immune response without increased risk of illness.

Cleaning and Sanitizing Children’s Belongings

Regular cleaning of toys, school supplies, and frequently touched objects is essential. Understanding the difference between cleaning, sanitizing, and disinfecting can help:

• Cleaning removes visible dirt and debris.
• Sanitizing reduces germs to safer levels.
• Disinfecting kills germs completely, offering the highest level of protection.

It is important to read product labels carefully, use child-safe cleaning products, and rinse toys thoroughly after disinfection, especially those that go into a child’s mouth.

Choosing Effective Sanitizing Products

To minimize germ exposure, parents should clean objects with soap and water first and then use a sanitizer for everyday items. Disinfectants, which are stronger, should be used on objects that a sick person has touched. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) provides a list of approved sanitizers and disinfectants that effectively kill germs.

Encouraging Good Hygiene Without Causing Anxiety

Teaching children proper hygiene without creating fear is essential. Make handwashing engaging by incorporating songs or counting games. Explaining the benefits of hygiene in a positive way helps children understand that washing hands protects them and others. Parents can reinforce these habits by leading by example.

Boosting Immunity Through Nutrition

A strong immune system helps children fight infections more effectively. Proper nutrition plays a crucial role in immune support. A balanced diet should include:

• Proteins
• Vegetables
• Fruits
• Healthy fats
• Carbohydrates
• Adequate hydration

Multivitamins are generally unnecessary for well-nourished children, but if supplements are used, they should be free of added sugars and taken under supervision to prevent choking hazards.

Teaching Respiratory Etiquette

Proper respiratory hygiene reduces the spread of illness. Parents should model behaviors such as covering their mouths with an elbow when coughing or sneezing. Using tissues and disposing of them immediately is also a good practice. Reinforcing these habits through positive encouragement makes children more likely to adopt them.

Egg freezing, once perceived as a concept limited to celebrities or affluent urban populations, is gradually becoming an important part of reproductive planning among Indian women, according to fertility experts.

Dr. Tarang Yadav, Senior Consultant - IVF, Obstetrics and Gynecology, ShardaCare–Healthcity, told HealthandMe that India is witnessing a gradual shift in conversations surrounding reproductive health, with more women seeking fertility consultations proactively rather than after experiencing difficulty conceiving. As per the expert, this trend is particularly visible in metropolitan and tier-2 cities.

The reason? Increasing awareness regarding fertility, delayed parenthood, evolving lifestyles, and advancements in reproductive medicine have contributed to growing interest in fertility preservation across different age groups and professional backgrounds.

"Today, more women are prioritizing education, career growth, financial stability, and personal readiness before planning pregnancy," Dr. Tarang said.

According to the World Health Organization, around 17.5 per cent of the adult population globally, nearly 1 in 6 people, experience infertility at some point in their lives, highlighting the growing need for accessible fertility care and awareness.

Also read: High Prolactin Levels Behind 40% Surge In Female Infertility Cases, Warn Doctors

What Is Egg Freezing?

Dr. Tarang explained that egg freezing, medically known as oocyte cryopreservation, allows women to preserve healthier eggs at a younger reproductive age, potentially improving future reproductive opportunities. While it does not guarantee pregnancy later in life, it offers an additional reproductive option for women who may wish to delay childbearing for personal, social, or medical reasons.

According to current international fertility preservation guidelines, planned oocyte cryopreservation can be considered in appropriately counselled women, particularly when undertaken at a younger age and after proper fertility assessment.

Who May Benefit From Egg Freezing?

Dr. Tarang noted that egg freezing is increasingly being considered not only for social reasons but also for several medical indications.

Women who can benefit from fertility preservation include those:

• planning a delayed pregnancy due to career or personal circumstances, who have not yet found a suitable life partner,
• cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy or radiotherapy, women with severe endometriosis, patients undergoing ovarian surgeries,
• with diminished ovarian reserve
• with a family history of premature ovarian insufficiency

"In such situations, fertility preservation can provide psychological reassurance and reproductive flexibility before ovarian function declines further," Dr. Tarang said.

Read More: India Makes Significant Progress In Maternal Care, Nutrition And Child Immunization: NFHS-6

Why Timing Matters

Although egg freezing can be considered at different ages depending on individual ovarian reserve and reproductive goals, outcomes are generally better when eggs are frozen before the age of 35. Younger eggs tend to have better quality and chromosomal competence, which may improve future IVF outcomes.

The expert stressed the importance of early fertility counselling and ovarian reserve assessment. Tests such as Anti-Müllerian Hormone (AMH), ultrasound-based antral follicle count (AFC), and overall reproductive evaluation help determine whether a woman is an appropriate candidate for egg freezing.

Common Concerns About Egg Freezing

Addressing common concerns around the procedure, Dr. Shanujeet Kaur, Associate Director and Senior Gynecologist, Department of Fertility and Gynecology at Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Chandigarh, told HealthandMe that some women may experience temporary mood swings due to hormonal medications used during ovarian stimulation.

Light to moderate exercise, including walking and stretching, is generally safe during treatment, though high-intensity workouts may be discouraged as the ovaries enlarge.

Current research suggests egg freezing is generally safe, with no strong evidence linking fertility medications used during the procedure to long-term health problems such as breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or infertility in most women.

Recovery after egg retrieval is typically quick, with most women able to resume normal activities within one to three days, though mild cramping, bloating, spotting, or fatigue may occur temporarily.

The expert also advised maintaining a balanced diet, staying hydrated, and following personalised medical guidance regarding birth control and lifestyle measures during treatment.

While conditions such as PCOS, thyroid disorders, and advancing age are well-known causes of infertility, doctors are increasingly flagging high prolactin levels as an overlooked contributor. The hormonal imbalance may increase a woman's risk of infertility by up to 40 per cent, experts warned.

Prolactin is a hormone produced by the pituitary gland in the brain and is primarily responsible for breast milk production after childbirth. When prolactin levels become abnormally high in women who are not pregnant or breastfeeding, it can interfere with reproductive health and make conception difficult.

Elevated prolactin levels can disrupt ovulation, cause irregular menstrual cycles, and contribute to infertility, making early diagnosis and treatment crucial.

“There is a 40 per cent surge in infertility cases linked to high prolactin levels. Nearly, in a month, 4 out of 10 women aged 25-35 presenting with irregular periods and infertility are found to have elevated prolactin levels,” Dr. Sumit Paranjpe, Gynecologist, Apollo Spectra Hospital, Mumbai, told HealthandMe.

"Excess prolactin can suppress the hormones responsible for ovulation, resulting in irregular menstrual cycles or even the absence of periods. Without regular ovulation, the chances of conception decrease significantly," he added.

Symptoms Women Should Not Ignore

According to Dr. Paranjpe, apart from infertility, women with high prolactin levels may experience:

• Irregular periods
• Milky nipple discharge despite not being pregnant or breastfeeding
• Reduced libido
• Headaches
• Emotional distress

The expert said that factors such as pituitary gland disorders, certain medications, thyroid problems, chronic stress, and hormonal imbalances can contribute to elevated prolactin levels.

Early Diagnosis Can Improve Fertility Outcomes

Dr. Paranjpe said high prolactin levels can usually be diagnosed through simple blood tests and managed effectively with appropriate treatment.

“Women should not ignore symptoms such as irregular periods, unexplained nipple discharge, or difficulty conceiving. Timely evaluation can help identify the underlying cause and restore normal ovulation. In many cases, medications can successfully lower prolactin levels, regulate menstrual cycles, and improve fertility outcomes.”

He added that maintaining a healthy lifestyle, managing stress, and undergoing regular health check-ups can help support hormonal balance.

Other Causes Of Infertility

Dr. Sneha Sathe, Clinical Director and Fertility Specialist, Nova IVF Fertility, Chembur, Mumbai, said many women continue to struggle with infertility without realizing that a hormonal imbalance may be the underlying reason.

“At times, women belonging to the age group of 25-35 seeking fertility consultations report symptoms such as irregular periods or ovulation-related issues. The most common cause of ovulatory dysfunction is PCOS (now known as PMOS). Other causes include thyroid problems, high prolactin, chronic illness, and hypothalamic issues,” she told HealthandMe.

Treatment may involve medications to induce ovulation, along with advice regarding diet and exercise in women with PCOS. In cases where an underlying condition, such as elevated prolactin or a thyroid problem, is identified, targeted treatment can help normalize hormone levels and regulate menstrual cycles.

“Early diagnosis and treatment can improve fertility outcomes and prevent unnecessary delays in family planning. Raised prolactin level is not a common isolated cause for infertility, but treating it in women identified to have high levels can help,” Dr. Sathe said.

Thyroid problems are giving a tough time to many women. Are you aware? More women planning pregnancy are now being diagnosed with borderline thyroid levels. Here, the expert sheds light on the importance of early screening and timely care for better fertility outcomes. It is imperative for women to manage their thyroid health by following the vital tips.

Thyroid issues are commonly seen in a large number of women. Currently, a large number of women who are planning pregnancy are being diagnosed with subclinical hypothyroidism.

This condition is identified when thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH) levels are slightly high, while other thyroid hormones remain within the normal range. Although it may not cause obvious symptoms, it can still impact fertility and pregnancy outcomes if left unmanaged.

Understanding The Link Between Thyroid And Fertility

Thyroid hormones play an important role in regulating metabolism, menstrual cycles, and ovulation. Even a small amount of imbalance can interfere with the release of eggs, making it harder for women to conceive. Subclinical hypothyroidism can be detected by the expert during routine blood tests, that is, when women undergo pre-pregnancy check-ups or even fertility evaluations. The diagnosis can be surprising for women.

That is the time some women may come to know about their compromised thyroid levels. So, the causes behind the rise in borderline TSH levels are lifestyle-related factors. You will be shocked to know that stress, poor diet, lack of sleep, and sedentary habits can affect hormonal balance.

Even conditions such as Autoimmune Thyroiditis and iodine imbalance may also contribute to thyroid dysfunction. Since symptoms are usually mild or absent, many women will end up ignoring the symptoms and suffer in silence.

While subclinical hypothyroidism may not always require aggressive treatment, it becomes important when a woman is trying to conceive. As even mildly elevated TSH levels can increase the risk of irregular ovulation, early pregnancy loss, and complications during pregnancy, prompt monitoring and, in some cases, low-dose thyroid medication can be recommended by the doctor to maintain optimal hormone levels.

Women Must Follow These Tips:

• Women should opt for regular thyroid function tests before planning pregnancy to know the status of their thyroid health.
• It is necessary to consult an expert and follow a balanced diet with an adequate amount of iodine and nutrients.
• Strictly avoid junk, processed, and sugary foods, stay hydrated, quit smoking, and limit alcohol.
• It is also necessary to sleep well, exercise daily, and follow the doctor’s instructions regarding medication and follow-ups.

So, women, stay vigilant and prevent thyroid problems.

(By Dr Swati Rai, Consultant-Gynecologist and Laparoscopic Surgeon at Motherhood Hospitals, Noida.)