Latest news with #Mendiratta
Time of India
5 hours ago
- Health
- Time of India
UTI or yeast infection? Symptoms and best treatments explained
Urinary Tract Infections (UTIs) and yeast infections are widespread conditions that afflict most women, with many of the same symptoms. They demand highly dissimilar treatments, though. Yeast infections vs UTIs, understanding the difference is crucial to receiving quick, successful relief. What is a UTI? UTI takes place when bacteria infuse the urinary tract, typically by entering via the urethra. It can be located in the bladder (cystitis), urethra (urethritis), or kidneys (pyelonephritis). Symptoms most often include: A persistent, strong desire to urinate Burning while urinating Strong-smelling or cloudy urine Lower abdominal pain UTIs in more serious instances can result in fever or back pain, indicating a kidney infection. UTIs are usually treated with a prescription of antibiotics provided by a physician. What is a yeast infection? A yeast infection is the result of an overgrowth of the fungus Candida, most commonly in the vagina. Unlike UTIs, yeast infections are not bacterial and are not caused with antibiotics. They can be caused by: Intense itching and inflammation Thick, white, "cottage cheese-like" discharge Redness and swelling of the vulva Pain during intercourse or urination Yeast infections are typically treated with antifungal medication, either over-the-counter (creams or suppositories) or prescription oral tablets. How to tell the difference Both may require discomfort when urinating, but UTIs are more concerned with urinary pain and urgency, whereas yeast infections are more linked to itching outside and unusual discharge. If you're not sure what condition you have, it's always better to see a healthcare provider. A UTI can be diagnosed by a simple urine test, and a vaginal swab or physical exam might diagnose a yeast infection. While UTIs and yeast infections have some similar symptoms, they have different causes and must be treated differently. Proper diagnosis is essential. Don't treat yourself without a diagnosis—when you're unsure, consult a healthcare provider to get the proper treatment in a timely fashion. Mendiratta, Clinical Associate Director-Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Marengo Asia Hospital, Faridabad
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Business Standard
4 days ago
- Health
- Business Standard
From exercise to food, 15 menstruation myths you might still believe
Periods are a part of life, yet they're still wrapped in secrecy, discomfort and far too many outdated beliefs. With health information more accessible than ever, many people still haven't moved past the awkward myths and stigma surrounding the natural biological process that half of the world's population goes through each month. In this edition of Fact-Check Friday, we unpack 15 common period myths you've likely heard—and may still believe. 1. You should not exercise during your period Truth: Exercise can help you, not harm you, during your period. Light to moderate exercise can be helpful. Dr Shweta Mendiratta, Associate Clinical Director, Marengo Asia Hospitals, said movement releases endorphins—natural painkillers that ease cramps and boost mood. Walking, yoga or stretching can make periods more manageable. 2. You shouldn't bathe or wash your hair during your period Truth: Stay fresh. Bathing is not only safe, it's necessary. Bathing and hair washing are safe and important. In fact, warm baths can relax muscles and reduce period pain. Skipping hygiene may increase infection risk. 3. You can't get pregnant during your period Truth: Unprotected sex during periods is not foolproof birth control. Periods aren't a guaranteed 'safe window.' Sperm can survive up to five days, and early ovulation can still result in pregnancy. 4. Periods should always be regular Truth: Your period doesn't need to be clockwork to be healthy. Stress, lifestyle changes and hormones can affect your cycle. Occasional irregularity isn't a cause for concern unless it becomes chronic or is accompanied by other symptoms. 5. Every menstrual cycle should last 28 days Truth: 'Normal' looks different for everyone. A 28-day cycle is average, not universal. Healthy cycles may range from 21 to 35 days. 6. Period cramps are just an excuse to skip work or school Truth: Period pain is real and deserves understanding, not dismissal. Menstrual cramps (dysmenorrhoea) can be severe and disabling. Dr Mendiratta said they can also cause nausea, dizziness and fatigue, affecting daily functioning. 7. Using tampons will take away your virginity Truth: Tampons are about hygiene, not sexual status. Virginity is a social construct, not a medical one. Tampons may stretch the hymen, but so can exercise. They do not 'take away' virginity. 8. Menstruating women are untouchable or bring bad luck Truth: This is an outdated taboo, not science. Dr Mannan Gupta, Chairman & HOD, Elantis Healthcare, said this belief is discriminatory and baseless. Menstruation is natural and does not make women impure or unlucky. 9. Menstrual blood can be used for black magic Truth: Menstrual blood has no mystical powers. Period. There's nothing magical or harmful about menstrual blood—it contains blood, vaginal secretions and uterine lining, just like any other bodily fluid. 10. Eating certain foods during periods is harmful Truth: Listen to your body, not the food police. No scientific reason exists to avoid specific foods. Iron-rich foods and warm fluids may actually help. Some may react to caffeine or salt, but it varies by individual. 11. You can't undergo medical tests or surgeries during your period Truth: Don't postpone important healthcare because of your period. Most procedures are unaffected by menstruation. Dr Gupta noted only a few gynaecological surgeries might be rescheduled due to active bleeding. 12. Swimming stops your period Truth: Swimming during periods is safe and can even help ease cramps. Water pressure may temporarily reduce flow, but it resumes afterward. Tampons or menstrual cups allow safe, leak-free swimming. 13. Menstrual cups are unsafe or can get lost inside you Truth: Menstrual cups are a smart, planet-friendly choice. Menstrual cups are safe, sit in the vaginal canal and cannot pass the cervix. They are sustainable and cost-effective. 14. Sex during menstruation is dangerous or unhealthy Truth: Period sex is safe, normal and totally up to you. Sex during periods is safe if both partners are comfortable. It may even reduce cramps due to endorphins. Protection is still essential. 15. PMS (Premenstrual Syndrome) is all in your head Truth: PMS is real and deserves validation, not eye rolls. PMS is a medically recognised condition. It includes symptoms like mood swings, headaches, bloating and fatigue, caused by hormonal fluctuations. Doctors urge that it's time we stop treating menstruation like a mystery wrapped in shame. A period doesn't make women weak, impure or unprofessional—it makes them human. Let's break the stigma, one myth at a time.
Mint
07-07-2025
- Entertainment
- Mint
Bollywood scripts recovery with sequels and small-town strategy
After a lacklustre first half in 2025 with box office collections just crossing ₹1,900 crore, the Hindi film industry is pinning hopes on a stronger second half. A packed release calendar, a wave of sequels, and stories rooted in mythology and folk traditions are expected to drive revenues up by 20–30%, theatre owners and producers said. The recovery strategy centres on reaching audiences in tier-two and tier-three towns through culturally resonant stories. Franchises like Son of Sardaar 2, War 2, Baaghi 4, and Jolly LLB 3, along with folklore-inspired films like Kantara: A Legend Chapter 1 and Thama, are expected to dominate the theatrical landscape in the coming months. Franchises are a series of films that continue the story of popular characters or worlds—building on past successes to attract loyal audiences with sequels and spin-offs. 'There is a clear strategy (to reach out to small-town audiences). A lot of the upcoming films are sequels, mythological stories, or based on Indian folklore. These are not just creative choices—they're strategic," said Bhuvanesh Mendiratta, managing director at Miraj Entertainment Ltd, which operates multiplex theatres. Franchises, he said, have a ready audience, while mythological and folklore-based content resonates strongly with families in smaller cities. 'These films work better in single screens and tier-two and tier-three cities, where people prefer larger-than-life, rooted stories," Mendiratta added. Also read: Regional content gains ground on OTTs even as Hindi dominates Return of epics The trend is expected to continue well into 2026. Ranbir Kapoor will headline a two-part Ramayana franchise scheduled for Diwali 2026 and 2027, while Vicky Kaushal will play eternal warrior Parashurama in Mahavatar, slated for a December 2026 release. 'Films that are rooted in our culture or drawn from epics often connect well with the audience," said film producer Anand Pandit. 'The broad canvas offered by mythology or folklore allows filmmakers to shape narratives that appeal to viewers who enjoy grand, impactful stories anchored in nostalgia or tradition." Pandit added that the next six months would likely showcase audience-friendly spectacles, emotional mid-budget stories, and the return of familiar franchises. 'If these films succeed, they could provide the kind of breakthroughs the industry needs right now," he said. Also read: Never mind the movie - just get the popcorn! That's the latest audience trend at the cinema Franchises over originals Franchise-building is emerging as a go-to model in the absence of fresh stories. One viable strategy at this point is to create franchises and therefore build on a universe audiences already know of, said Satwik Lele, chief operating officer at MuktaA2 Cinemas. While this might indicate a lack of originality, Lele pointed out that Hollywood relies heavily on sequels too, citing upcoming releases like The Fantastic 4: First Steps and Avatar: Fire and Ash. Packed release calendar Experts say the release schedule in the second half of 2025 marks a clear departure from the sporadic releases of 2024 and early 2025. Film producer and trade expert Girish Johar said the steady flow of films is key to restoring the movie-going habit. 'The consistency in release schedules is important to ensure people stay used to coming to theatres. That habit formation also helps the small and mid-budget films to perform," he said. Also read: Online games and self-publishing platforms: movie producers tap new avenues for fresh plotlines
