Fertility Treatments – How Safe Are They?

The lifestyle of fast paced populations in cities and towns can earn money quite quick but not make babies as fast as that. This is because lifestyle changes have been major, the food, the style of living, the lower pace and rate of exercises, the supremacy of machines of human labor and the inordinate routine have wreaked havoc in the body.

The patterns of major changes in the male and female body are disrupted and cause weird circumstances in the body that are not conducive to conceiving. Infertility is on a rise, and not to scare the readers the issue related to infertility are going to increase furthermore from now on.

In light of this, there has been a rapid rise of infertility clinics and procedures called Artificial Reproduction Techniques (ART) making it a $4 billion industry booming with hopes of expectations.

fertility treatments,fertility treatment,fertility treatment center,cost of fertility treatments,fertility treatment costs,fertility treatment options,natural fertility treatments,fertility treatments for women,how much does fertility treatment cost,types of fertility treatments Let’s discuss fertility treatments-how safe are they?

Uncertain Stories of Fertility Treatments

There are scores of research studies that predict a lot many side effects of fertility treatments like the breast cancer and ovarian cancer. Take for example the much touted and utilized In Vitro Fertilization (IVF).

This procedure compels the women to take a heavy dose of drugs augmenting the level of the female hormone oestrogen in the blood. There are some studies that show the potential of this causing breast and ovarian cancer and on the other hand there are some other studies that state the exact opposite.

Thus, we do not know about whether such fertility treatments cause such nuisances in the female body. Uncertainty revolves around the same.

Drug and Their Side Effects Better Avoided for Fertility Treatments

There are a group of drugs generally consumed by women opting to go for artificial conceiving methods. The attempt is to suppress the natural menstrual cycle that can have side effects similar to that of menopause.

These cause bouts of terrible moods wings along with hot flushes. This suppression is advised by intake of medicines like Synarel and Lucrin. Another common norm mostly implemented by gynecologists indulging in artificial methods is the act of stimulating the hormones to produce more eggs.

Most people will have the strong desire to conceive a child at some point during their lifetime. Understanding what defines normal fertility is crucial to helping a person, or couple, know when it is time to seek help. Most couples (approximately 85%) will achieve pregnancy within one year of trying, with the greatest likelihood of conception occurring during the earlier months. Only an additional 7% of couples will conceive in the second year. As a result, infertility has come to be defined as the inability to conceive within 12 months. This diagnosis is therefore shared by 15% of couples attempting to conceive. We generally recommend seeking the help of a reproductive endocrinologist if conception has not occurred within 12 months. However, there are various scenarios where one may be advised to seek help earlier.

• Infrequent menstrual periods: When a woman has regular menstrual periods, defined as regular cycles occurring every 21 to 35 days, this almost always indicates that she ovulates regularly. Ovulation of the egg occurs approximately 2 weeks before the start of the next period. If a woman has cycles at intervals of greater than 35 days, it may indicate that she is not ovulating an egg predictably, or even at all. Ovulation of the egg is essential for pregnancy. Therefore, we recommend an evaluation if menstrual cycles are infrequent or irregular in a couple attempting pregnancy.
• Female age of 35 years or older: For unclear reasons, egg numbers decrease at a rapid rate as women age. Furthermore, as aging occurs, egg quality, or the likelihood of an egg being genetically normal, decreases. Therefore we recommend a fertility evaluation if a couple has been attempting pregnancy for 6 months or more when the woman is 35 years of age or older.
• A history of pelvic infections or sexually transmitted diseases: Sexually transmitted infections, such as chlamydia or gonorrhea, can cause inflammation and permanent scarring of the fallopian tubes. The presence of open tubes is essential for natural conception, as sperm must traverse the tubes in order to reach and fertilize the ovulated egg. We recommend immediate evaluation for a couple attempting pregnancy when the woman has a prior history of pelvic infection. As part of the fertility evaluation, we will perform an HSG, a test designed to evaluate if the fallopian tubes are open.
• Known uterine fibroids or endometrial polyps: Uterine abnormalities, such as fibroids that indent the endometrial cavity and endometrial polyps, can impair how the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) and embryo interact to lower implantation and pregnancy rates. These abnormalities can also cause irregular bleeding between menstrual cycles. Evaluation should be pursued by 6 months of attempted pregnancy in women with a known history of these abnormalities or a history of bleeding between menstrual cycles. The main approach to correcting or removing these uterine abnormalities is by hysteroscopy, a surgical method by which a narrow scope with a camera is placed within the uterine cavity. Instruments can be introduced through the hysteroscope, allowing the surgeon to remove or correct any anatomic abnormalities.
• Known male factor semen abnormalities: If a male partner has a history of infertility with a prior partner, or if there are abnormalities on his semen analysis, then we advise earlier fertility evaluation, ideally within 6 months of attempting pregnancy.

This has side effects like mood swings, weariness, and splitting headaches that may get more pronounced with the bleeding and twisting of ovaries. This is something that one has to be careful about. Additional drugs-include Clomiphene (Clomid/Serophene) which airs to encourage the pituitary to yieldadditional oocytes. Side-effects include infrequent visual commotion along with hot flushes, drowsiness and headaches.

Absolutely Bizarre

Thus in all probability there is no real consensus on what could have side effects and what could not. We do not know how are Fertility Treatments – How Safe Are They?The best thing to do in this situation is to consider your body as a separate entity and not fall for any research findings or generality.

The due consultation of your gynecologist and their effective treatment depending upon your body type and your fertility problem should be taken as a simple truth you should abide by.

Fertility Testing, IVF and Other Infertility Treatments Infertility Treatments – Fertility – About.com Fertility drugs for women | BabyCenter Treatments for infertility – BabyCenter BBC – Health: Fertility treatment Thinking about fertility treatment | Pregnancy | Trying to get pregnant Assisted reproductive technology – Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia What Are Infertility Treatments? Types, Benefits, Risks, and More Fertility treatments – Pregnancy and baby guide – NHS Choices

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Must know these Prenatal Care Facts if you are Pregnant

So what is Prenatal Care?

Well, it is nothing but the health care you get when you are pregnant.

Prenatal care is very crucial since your health and health of your baby completely relies on it.

Do I really need Prenatal care if I am pregnant?

Yes, it is must for women who are pregnant since it has been scientifically proven that a baby of a mother who did not get prenatal care are 3 times more prone to possess a low birth weight and 5 times more prone to die compared to those born to mothers who cared.

Early Care:

When you know that you are pregnant or you think you might be, you must visit a Doctor so as to ensure there are no further implications.

Regular Care:

Doctors can easily identify the problems after a check up so it is must to visit regularly as scheduled by your doctor.

It not only ensures safety but also ensures that the treatment is done timely and prevents future implications.

So what are these prenatal tests?

It is nothing but the tests that are done while you are pregnant. These tests are helpful to know your and your baby’s present health condition.

For every checkup, tests on Blood pressure and urine are common. While if you have certain problems while you are pregnant than you might have to undergo some medical tests in your first trimester like Chorionic villus sampling (CVS), Cystic fibrosis (CF) carrier screening, Early ultrasound & First-trimester screening.

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How to get beautiful Skin At Any Age

Millions of women want anti-aging skin care advice from their doctors each year. We share our 9 essential beauty tips for beautiful skin at any age. Last year alone, an estimated 2.7 million women between the ages of 19 and 64 walked through the doors of doctors' offices looking for ways to slow down the aging of their skin.

 
While the discovery for the fountain of youth has evaded scientists for years, dermatologists and cosmetic surgeons are closer than ever before to helping turn back the clock -- at least when it comes to the body's largest and most complex organ, the skin. Now, thanks to a better understanding of how the skin ages, making major improvements to the appearance of the skin no longer means getting a face-lift.
New age-defying creams and minimally invasive procedures, such as skin-firming laser therapies, enable you to take years off your looks. The idea is to start early with these less-invasive anti-aging skin care treatments, says Deborah S. Sarnoff, M.D., clinical associate professor of dermatology at New York University and author of Instant Beauty: Getting Gorgeous on Your Lunchtime Break (St. Martin's Press, 2002). To help your skin recapture its youth, follow our advice on these fast face fixes.

Beautiful skin during the carefree 20s

During this decade, skin cells regenerate at top speed, keeping the complexion soft, smooth and radiant. Collagen and elastin -- the fibers that give skin its plumped-up look and elasticity -- are in optimal health. And photoaging (the evidence of the sun sins of our youth) has yet to appear. That's why the 20s become the prime time for anti-aging skin care to protect skin from free radicals, the volatile particles -- generated by pollution and the sun's ultraviolet (UV) rays -- that damage the molecular structure of skin cells, causing the skin to age faster and increasing the risk of skin cancer, according to Los Angeles dermatologist Howard Murad, M.D.

Despite nursing a lingering shoulder injury this season, 28-year-old Stacie Tovar managed to secure a second place finish at the 2013 North Central Regional. Her killer routine may have something to do with earning her fifth straight entry into the Cross FitGames (she placed 12th overall last year). “Every day, I get a solid nine hours of sleep, get up and train, hustle the corporate life from 9 to 5, train some more, and repeat,” says the 5-foot-5 competitor from Omaha, NE. “In between, I make sure to eat clean, eat plenty, stay hydrated, mobilize, and, most of all, have fun while trying to balance it all.”

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Most Popular Homemade Pregnancy Test

Homemade pregnancy tests are very popular. This is because most of the times women have the fear of conceiving a child irrespective of whether their intercourse was protected or otherwise and this is why pregnancy tests have come of age. However, it must be mentioned in their reliability cannot be gauged and measure.



This again is due to the fact that most of the women do not always trust them. This is one of the major drawbacks of the pregnancy tests and other than this other thing being that they cannot always be trusted with ease. The advantages are quite a few like, flexibility of trying and testing, quick, affordable and inexpensive, homemade and extremely safe when it comes to ingredients. Here are a few methods of homemade pregnancy test which one can try at home when in doubt.

Homemade pregnancy test with Pine Oil

The use of pine oil for pregnancy testing is an ancient idea. This procedure can be done by adding a bit of urine or probably a sample piece in pure pine oil. Due to the excess of hormones in the urine if pregnant the pine oil may get a little frizzy and start becoming frothy. If this happens it is a sign of pregnancy, if the liquid remain absolutely unchanged then you can rest in peace about not being pregnant.

Homemade pregnancy test with Egyptian idea

Old ancient Egyptian used to use very innovative methods to test pregnancy at home. Their test could even probably help in finding out the sex of the baby conceived. You can use wheat or barley and try urinating or soak them with sample urine. If the seeds start to germinate it would be a girl and if the barley seeds start to grow it would be a boy. If there is no movement in the growth of the seed, it would probably mean negative pregnancy. The growth starts as the estrogen levels in the urine increase leading to seed growth implying a probable pregnancy.

Homemade pregnancy test with Bleach test

Cleaning bleach found in any home can be of great use to determine pregnancy. Take a cup full of bleach and mix it with urine. If the bleach starts frothing, fizzling and making noises it is a sure sign of pregnancy. If it doesn’t then it means you’re not pregnant. This fizz that you can see on mixing the bleach and urine is due to higher levels of hormones in your body.

Homemade pregnancy test with Dandelion leaves

Dandelion leaves can pluck fresh and saturated with the tester urine. If the dandelion leave starts showing sign of blisters it means the testers is pregnant and if not the woman is not. It takes around 10-30 minutes for the leaf to exhibit the pregnancy test.

Conclusion:-

These are the different types of pregnancy tests that are women Cal try at home. The results as mentioned earlier cannot be trusted for sure but the option mentioned above are still the most commonly tried and tested one that tend to show the correct results most of the times.

Community health centers and local dispensaries can be a point of contact for further medication checking professionally.

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Painful Menstrual Cramps and How to Reduce the Pain?

Menstrual cramps and Reduce Pain, Menstrual cramps are experienced by women who are in their menstrual period. These cramps cause pain in the belly and pelvic areas. The pain that these menstrual cramps cause can range from meek to severe depending on the menstrual period, the intensity of the pain determines whether the woman may continue daily activities or not.

A mild menstrual cramp is of a very short duration and hardly painful and noticeable, on the other hand, a severe menstrual cramp may last for several days and the intense pain does not allow the woman undergoing the cramp to carry on with day to day activities. According to surveys and statistics, menstrual cramps are more common in adolescent girls whereas fifty percent of adult women report to having experienced painful menstrual cramps out of which fifteen percent said they were experiencing extreme pain.

Menstrual cramps build over a period of time. Every month the inner lining of the uterus is formed in wait for a possible pregnancy, however, after ovulation, if the egg is not fertilized by a sperm cell, the lining becomes useless. Gradually, the woman’s estrogen and progesterone levels fall, this causes the uterus lining to swell and eventually shed in the form of menstruation flow, finally replaced by new lining the following month. When the uterus lining is being shed, molecules called prostaglandins are released and these cause the muscles of the uterus to contract, restricting blood supply to the endometrium. The contracted muscles do not allow oxygen to pass through to the endometrium that eventually dies. The contracted uterus muscles then push the dead endometrial tissue out of the vagina, causing menstrual pain and cramps. This pain’s degree may become concentrated if there are clots or pieces of dead tissue from the uterus lining that need to pass through the cervix, even more so if the woman’s cervical canal is narrow.

 
There are factors that influence the intensity of the menstrual cramp; a narrow cervical canal restricts the menstrual flow, causing more pain. Other factors include the backward tilting of the uterus which is called a retroverteduterus; lack of proper exercise is also an accepted cause for menstrual cramps.
Fortunately, menstrual cramps have become quite common and a variety oftreatments have been discovered to ease the pain. It is seen that an adequate amount of rest and sleep combined with a well structures exercise plan, tremendously reduces the pain of menstrual cramps and also lowers the frequency of them occurring. Other than that, using a heating pad on the abdominal area relieves pain and reduces congestion of the muscles. For some women yoga and a good massage for the lower abdomen reduces the pain considerably. Many women also find that sufficient orgasmic sexual activity brings some relief. Mild cramps can be remedied by taking dosage of certain medicines like aspirin and acetaminophen combined with a diuretic. Women should begin the utilization of any one of these cures for their menstrual cramps before the pain becomes too severe to control and daily activities are forced to be reduced.

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What Are Small Brown Spots On Face?

What Are Small Brown Spots On Face And Neck? Small brown spots which appear on face and neck are essentially sun damage. They start as freckles during young age and gradually become larger as you age. First and foremost it is advisable to consult a doctor.

Small Brown Spotsermatologist to rule out the possibility of a skin cancer.
Now let’s see how to protect the skin from further damage. First of all to control these brown spots or age spots from further spreading you should use a good UVA protection sunscreen on your face and neck daily and wear a hat to cover your face and neck from direct sun. Use a sunscreen lotion with SPF 30 at least and containing 5% – 10% zinc or titanium.

How To Treat Brown Spots:-

Consult a dermatologist for the proper treatment of small brown spots or age spots, he may prescribe you an anti aging cream which contains skin bleaching agent particularly hydroquinone. The more the quantity of this bleaching agent in the cream the more effective the cream would be in reducing the brown spots on face. However these creams may cause damage to the quality of the skin. Usually these prescription bleaching creams contain 2% to 4% hydroquinone. Questions have been raised on the safety of hydroquinone in Europe and European Union has also banned the drug. Bleaching creams containing hydroquinone should be used strictly under medical supervision and a prolonged use of more than three months should be avoided. It should be noted that the use of bleaching creams does not protect you from the re-growth of brown spots or from the development of new spots. Continued exposure to the sun should be avoided because this stimulates the growth of small brown spots.

Removing Brown Spots By Chemical Peels:-

Chemical peels are yet another procedure of getting rid of brown spots from face. Under this process the dermatologist applies a thin layer of chemical solution containing glycolic acid on the affected area and when this layer is peeled off the brown spots or the age spots also come off. This procedure is quite effective though it might take a few numbers of sittings to completely remove the brown spots.

Laser Treatment For Brown Spots Removal:-

Laser treatment is a bit expensive but it is considered as one of the best treatments to remove the brown spots. In this treatment a surface layer of the skin is taken off from the affected area to remove the brown spots from the skin.

Cryosurgery:-

Cryosurgery is yet another method of getting rid of brown spots from the skin. Cryosurgery is the process of destroying the unwanted skin cells through freezing in order to remove the brown spots from the skin.
Natural Herbal Remedies To Remove Brown Spots On Face:
People who hesitate to take the chemical treatment to remove the brown spots because of the fear of getting side effects of such treatments and also because of the big costs involved in these treatments can look forward to natural herbal remedies to treat their brown spots. These treatments might take a longer time to remove the brown spots but they are safe and effective too.

Aloe Vera Gel:-

Aloe Vera is an effective treatment for brown spots on face. Apply Aloe Vera gel or juice directly on the face and the affected area regularly for a month and you will notice the brown spots disappearing from your skin.

Apple Cider Vinegar:-

Applying a mixture of apple cider vinegar and onion juice on the affected area for a month is another effective home treatment for the removal of brown spots from the face. You may also drink apple cider vinegar in water. Take three table spoons of apple cider vinegar in a cup of cold or warm water, you may add a spoon of honey to enhance taste if you like, and drink it twice daily for a month. You will be surprised to see the brown spots vanishing quickly.

Lemon Juice May Work Wonders On Brown Spots:-

Take fresh lemon juice and dab it on the affected area with a cotton dab. This is another home remedy to reduce brown spots on face.

Applying Castor Oil On Brown Spots:-

Castor oil also acts as a wonderful treatment to cure brown spots on face. Just apply castor oil directly on the affected area and you will find the brown spots reducing in a month’s time.
It is good to treat the brown spots with these remedies but at the same time it is advisable to consult a dermatologist before starting on with any of the treatments because a dermatologist can check and make sure whether the brown spots are cancerous or benign so as to initiate the right treatment.
Hope you have benefitted from these remedies to remove brown spots from face and neck. Do share your experiences and thoughts with us in the comments below.

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Five Things A Contact Lens Wearer Should Know

If you’re a contact lens wearer, you’ll be aware of the many benefits contact lenses have; they provide freedom from glasses, give clear, uninterrupted vision while playing sport and even allow you to experiment with your eye colour. To make sure that you get the most out of your contact lenses, there are some essential facts you need to know. Whether you’re new to contact lenses or have been wearing them for years, these vital tips will help to maintain your eye health and make sure that you are always safe and comfortable when wearing your contact lenses.

Always Seek Professional Optical Advice:-

Eyesight Testing:-

When was the last time you had your eyes tested? It’s essential to regularly visit your Optician to ensure that your eyes are healthy and that your prescription is correct and up-to-date. An Optician will be able to quickly and easily assess your eye health, and identify any potential issues early.

If you’re a first time wearer, your Optician will be able to provide guidance and advice about which lens type and strength is most suited to your eyes. If you have any specific questions concerning your eyesight, you can also seek advice online.

Ensure That You Are Inserting Your Contact Lenses Correctly:-

For new contact lens wearers, this can seem like an intimidating part of wearing contact lenses. It’s important to fit your lens correctly to make sure that they are comfortable, and that they don’t move around throughout the day. Always wash your hands with an antibacterial wash before touching your eyes or your lenses.

Wearing Contact Lens:-

You can find many handy guides for first time contact lens wearers online. For those of you who are old hands, it’s well worth reviewing your technique every now and again to make sure that you are inserting your contact lenses safely and effectively. For a video showing you how to correctly insert and remove your contact lenses, click here.

Care For Your Contact Lenses:-

In order to get the most out of your contact lenses and keep them hygienic, it’s essential that you establish a dedicated cleaning routine. By cleaning lenses daily and changing them as often as advised by your Optician, you will help to keep your eyes healthy.
o clean your contact lenses correctly, invest in a high quality contact lens solution. You should also keep an eye on the expiry date of the solution, and never top up a new bottle using old product as this can cause the eyes to become irritated. Also make sure that you have a sturdy and transportable lens case for easy and hygienic storage.
If you wear eye makeup such as mascara and eyeliner, only apply it after you have inserted your lenses, which will help to keep them clean. Avoid sharing makeup with others and replace your makeup frequently – depending on the product, this should be around every three months – to keep your eye area as healthy as possible.

Be Prepared – Especially When Travelling:-

Even if you have been wearing contact lenses for years, there may be times when your eyes become dry or sore and it’s necessary to remove your contact lenses. Carry your lens case, solution and glasses around with you to ensure you’re never caught out and can store your contact lenses hygienically. Make sure you always have a ready stock of lenses in advance of travelling to ensure that you never run out.
Carrying comfort drops will help to prevent dry eyes when staring at a computer screen or a small object for too long. If you want to go for a swim, consider purchasing some prescription goggles before your trip.
Buy Your Contact Lenses From A Reputable Store:-
There are many benefits to buying your contact lenses from a reputable store; convenience, fast delivery, a wide range of products to choose from. Always make sure the store you’re choosing is reputable and features some solid customer testimonials to back up their claims. Be extra cautious when buying coloured or Halloween contact lenses from non-specialist stores, as they can be of low quality.

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Myth of A Surrogate Baby In Indian Society

If a couple is unable to have children because the woman is not able to conceive, still they can have a baby through a surrogate mother, the baby born from a surrogate mother is called a surrogate baby. Medical science has developed a method called in-vitro fertilization to create an embryo from which your baby will grow. The doctors implant this embryo into the uterus of a surrogate mother rather than a biological mother where it grows until the baby is born. The baby born out of such arrangement is genetically related to one of the partners.

Types Of Surrogate Mothers:-

Basically there are two kinds of surrogate mothers –

(1) Traditional Surrogate Mother: A traditional surrogate mother is a woman who is inseminated with the fathers sperm artificially. She then bears the baby until the surrogate baby is born and handed over to the parents to raise. A traditional surrogate mother is the baby’s biological mother because in such cases it is the surrogate mother’s egg which is fertilized with the fathers sperm. For traditional surrogacy donor sperm can also be used.

(2) Gestational Surrogate Mother: In gestational surrogacy eggs from the mother is harvested and fertilized with the sperm of the father by a medical process called in-vitro fertilization and the embryo is then placed into the uterus of a gestational surrogate mother who carries the baby till the birth. Gestational surrogate mother is called the birth mother and not the biological mother because it is not her egg which is used. The biological mother of such surrogate baby still remains the women whose egg is used for fertilization.

In gestational surrogacy both the intended parents have genetic ties with the baby. Gestational surrogacy has become more common than traditional surrogacy because it is less complex legally.

Surrogacy Can Be An Option For The Following Reasons:

Woman has got her uterus removed through hysterectomy

Facing medical problems with uterus:

Cases where pregnancy becomes impossible or risky due to certain medical conditions

Women who have been unsuccessful to get pregnant through assisted reproduction techniques such as IVF

Surrogacy has also helped people to become parents who were unable to adopt a child because of their age.

How To Find A Surrogate Mother?

One can find a surrogate mother by any of the following ways –

Asking Friends Or Family:

Because of high cost of surrogacy and complex legal issues for parental rights, some people ask their friends or relatives to become surrogates for them because a family relationship becomes much easier to handle and less complex.

Contacting A Surrogacy Agency:-

Surrogacy agency helps find a suitable surrogate mother for people who are otherwise unable to find a surrogate mother. Surrogacy agency finds a suitable surrogate, handles the transaction of fees and reimbursements of other medical expenses between the parents and the surrogate mother. There are surrogacy agencies in the US as well as across the globe to help parents choose the right surrogate mother for their surrogate baby.

How To Choose A Surrogate Mother?

While choosing a surrogate mother, following points should be taken care of –

The woman has given birth to at least one healthy baby and understands well the risks of pregnancy and childbirth and the emotional issues of bonding with the newborn child

She is at least 21 years of age

Has undergone psychological tests by a mental health doctor to uncover any issue relating to handing over the surrogate baby to the parents after the birth

Has agreed to sign the legal contract to take full responsibilities of the child during the pregnancy and hand over the surrogate baby to the parents after the birth

The surrogate mother should be properly evaluated medically for a likelihood of a full term healthy pregnancy and should also be screened for diseases such as HIV, syphilis, hepatitis B and C, gonorrhea etc.

We Want To Hear From You:-

Did you find the above article helpful? What improvements would you like us to do? Any other point you may like to add that we have missed on surrogacy, surrogate mother or surrogate baby please do so in the comments below.

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Mood Disorders Effect On Normal Life

Mood disorders or mood swings are a kind of a mental health problem which includes depression of all kinds and bipolar disorder. Mood disorders are also known as affective disorders. Mood disorders can be associated with psychiatric conditions or chronic medical conditions or medication side effects that affect the central nervous system. Mood swings or mood disorders can be associated with medical conditions which deprive the brain of oxygen and nutrients.

Causes Of Mood Disorders Or Mood Swings:

Though the exact causes of mood disorders are not well known it could be related to chemical imbalance in the brain. Mood disorders are also considered to be inherited with multiple factors both genetic and environmental.

There could be psychiatric as well as other causes of mood disorders.

Psychiatric Causes Of Mood Disorders:

Depression

Bipolar Disorder

Postpartum Depression

Mood Disorder due to unstable relationship

Mood Disorder due to extreme anger

Other Causes Of Mood Disorders:

Alzheimer’s disease, Dementia

Head Injury

Pregnancy

Menopause

Brain Tumors

Side effects of medication

Sleep Disorders

Puberty

Symptoms Of Mood Disorders:

Symptoms of mood disorders may vary from person to person depending upon his/her age and the kind of mood disorder the person is going through. However the most common symptoms of mood disorders are as follows-

Feeling of excessive guilt

Feeling helpless

Feeling sad

Feeling to want to die

Low self esteem

Low on energy

Unable to concentrate

Unstable relationships

Lose interest in daily activities

Unable to make decisions

No sound sleep

Thoughts to commit suicide

Sensitive to failure of rejection

Frequent complaints of fatigue, headaches etc.

If the above symptoms of mood disorders continue for a longer time and are so intense than what a normal person experiences and they interfere with the person’s interest in family and friends and his/her daily activities then there should be addressed immediately. It is advised to take immediate medical help for proper diagnosis and treatment of mood disorders in case such symptoms persist for long.

Types Of Mood Disorders:

The different types of mood disorders can be summarized as follows –

Bipolar Disorder:

One episode of depressed or irritable mood and one period of persistent elevated mood

Major Depression:

Decrease in interest in usual activities and a two week period of depressed mood

Dysthymic Disorder:

Chronic and low grade depressed mood for at least one year

Mood Disorders Due To Medication:

Depression due to side effects of medication, drug abuse, toxins and other treatments

Mood Disorders Due To General Medical Conditions:

Many chronic medical conditions such as infections, cancer, serious injuries etc may lead to symptoms of depression

Diagnosis Of Mood Disorders:

For a proper diagnosis of mood disorders, the medical practitioner would look into the following areas –

When did you observe the mood disorders for the first time?

Are you on any medications?

What mood swings you experience when you have mood disorders?

What makes them better or worse?

Are you suffering from any other psychiatric or medical problems?

Do you drink alcohol?

Are you addicted to any drugs?

Complications Of Mood Disorders:

If ignored and not treated timely, mood disorders may lead to serious complications such as –

Difficulties in day-to-day work

Memory loss, brain damage

Drug abuse

Risk of injury

Financial troubles

Self harm

Suicidal tendencies

Treatment For Mood Disorders:

For a specific treatment for mood disorders the doctor would take into consideration the following points –

The type of mood disorder a person is suffering from

How severe is the condition

The person’s age, general health and medical history

Tolerance towards specific medications, therapies and procedures

For an effective treatment of mood disorders the treatment should be based on through evaluation of the patient. The treatment for mood disorders may include the following –

Psychotherapy:

Psychotherapy is often used to change the person’s views about himself/herself and the environment around, to identify stressors in the environment and how to avoid them.

Family Therapy

Antidepressant medications

Have You Experienced Mood Disorders or Mood Swings?

Have you or anyone known to you been a sufferer of mood disorders or mood swings? What has been your way to handle the problem? Did you manage to successfully overcome the condition, if yes then how? Do let us know in the comments below.

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Healthy Breakfast For Normal Health

As its been said – ‘breakfast is the most important diet of the day’it in fact means so. You may wonder, but if you start your day with a healthy breakfast you are there for a great day ahead. There are tremendous health benefits of breakfast, which not only includes enhancing your energy levels and concentration in studies or at work but healthy breakfast also aids in losing weight to help you maintain a healthy weight.



Studies suggest that breakfast eaters are leaner than those who skip breakfast. A healthy breakfast consisting of high fiber cereal helps in losing weight at the same time it is also beneficial in controlling diabetes and heart diseases and keeping a stroke away.

Health Benefits Of Breakfast:

(1) Healthy Breakfast Helps To Control Weight Gain:
Breakfast aids in controlling weight gain. Studies show having a healthy breakfast keeps your hunger pangs at bay and you do not tend to indulge in unnecessary, unhealthy snacking in between the meals which leads to weight gain and obesity. If you skip the breakfast you end up overeating at lunch and other meals which increases your total calorie intake. It’s worth mentioning here most of the studies show that when you eat a healthy breakfast, you are in a better position to control your weight by choosing a balanced diet for your breakfast. Mind you when we say ‘healthy breakfast’ we mean a meal consisting of protein and whole grains and not meals full of fats and calories.
(2) Healthy Breakfast Improves Concentration:
A healthy breakfast improves your concentration and performance at work or college. It gives you the required energy to push start your day energetically and enthusiastically.
(3) Healthy Breakfast Improves Your Metabolism:
Your metabolism improves when you start your day with the day’s first healthy meal in the morning. Healthy breakfast gives your metabolism a boost.

What Should Be The Healthy Breakfast?

Breakfast should have high fiber diet but it should not be limited to that. You may opt for whole grain breads for toasts and Trans fat free margarines. An egg may also be included in your breakfast twice or thrice a week, make sure to prepare it in low fat oil such as olive oil. Eggs contain protein which helps you keep full until lunch time. In a research conducted at Pennington Bio-medical research Center, researchers compared weight loss in women who ate either two eggs or a bagel for breakfast having equal calories and volume. It was observed that overweight women who ate two eggs for breakfast five times a week for eight weeks as compared to bagel eaters lost 65% more weight, reduced waistline by 83%, had no significant difference in their blood cholesterol levels and triglyceride levels and reported high energy levels.
But is the cholesterol in eggs good or bad? The research further shows that none of the women had increases in blood lipids which confirm that healthy adults with low fat diets can have eggs without having the risk of heart diseases. Studies have also suggested that people who add lean protein in their breakfast feel less hungry than people who ate breakfast without protein.

Cereals For Breakfast:

Including cereals in your breakfast helps you to maintain a healthy body weight. A study at Harvard points out those men who ate cereals in breakfast weighed less than the men who ate breakfast without cereals.
Some Quick Healthy Breakfast Choices For You:
A banana with a hard boiled egg
Fresh fruit with a low fat yogurt
Whole grain cereal with low fat milk and fresh fruit
Smoothie made with low fat yogurt and fruit
Resin and nuts, with oatmeal made with skimmed milk
What Are your Choices For Healthy Breakfast?
Do write to us about your healthy breakfast choices. Do you consider breakfast as an important meal for health? We await your comments below.

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Instant Tips To Prevent Pregnancy Stretch Marks

Pregnancy stretch marks are one of the main concerns for women who are planning their pregnancy. These pregnancy stretch marks look very embarrassing after you are through with your pregnancy and get busy with your newborn baby. It’s always better and advisable to take care and prevent pregnancy stretch marks from the very beginning of your pregnancy.

Tips To Prevent Pregnancy Stretch Marks: 

TIP (1)

Use sandalwood paste on your stomach during pregnancy. Sandalwood paste is known to prevent skin from stretching a lot during pregnancy.

TIP (2)

During pregnancy, massage cocoa butter twice a day on your stomach, hips and breasts. Cocoa butter is known to be an effective remedy to prevent pregnancy stretch marks. Diet during pregnancy has a lot to do not only for the health of mother and child but what you eat during pregnancy also help to prevent stretch marks. A balanced diet which includes adequate amount of Vitamin A, C, and E found in fish liver oils, vegetables, fruits, eggs and beans keeps the skin healthy and supple and heals and prevents pregnancy stretch marks.

TIP (3)

Aloe Vera gel is also useful to prevent pregnancy stretch marks. Apply Aloe Vera gel on your stomach during pregnancy which will ensure that you don’t get stretch marks after childbirth.

TIP (4)

Mix equal amounts of calendula oil and wheat germ oil and apply the mixture on your stomach breasts and hips. This will protect you from getting pregnancy stretch marks after your baby is born.

TIP (5)

Massage lightly with olive oil on your stretch marks until you start seeing the difference. Castor oil, almond oil, avocado oil, and vitamin E oil can also be used in place of olive oil. You will definitely feel the difference within a short period of time.

TIP (6)

Drink plenty of water. Proper hydration will maintain the elasticity of skin which will in turn help keep the collagen production at normal levels and prevent the pregnancy stretch marks.

TIP (7)

Indulge yourself in a moderate health and fitness regime in consultation with your physician during pregnancy. Exercise during pregnancy keeps your muscle toned up and this will prevent pregnancy stretch marks.

TIP (8)

Try not to put on excessive weight during pregnancy. Since being overweight increase the chances of getting stretch marks. Watch your diet and do follow a moderate fitness regime which will help not only to maintain yourself fit and healthy but would also help to prevent stretch marks.

Authors own's lines:

Follow the above tips and you will save yourself from getting the pregnancy stretch marks. But in case you get stretch marks even after taking care, don’t be disappointed, over a period of time they will convert into small lines and gradually fade off. Congratulations on your pregnancy for you will be delivering your bundle of joy and will be a proud mother. Our best wishes are with you for having a healthy baby. How useful did you find the above tips, please do share with us and also put up any useful tips on the subject that you want to share with others.

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Healthy Pregnancy Diet For Common Women

Top Ten Healthy Foods To Eat While You Are Pregnant ! Do you want to know the top healthy-foods that pregnant women should be eating? While it is true that there are so many healthy foods out there, some foods are so nutritious and packed with vitamins and minerals that it is best if you can include them in your pregnancy diet.

HEALTHY PREGNANCY DIET

Remember that what you eat during pregnancy has a direct impact on the development of the fetus. So you need to focus on foods that are rich in vitamins and minerals, proteins, and complex carbohydrates. Here are the top ten healthy-foods to include into your healthy pregnancy diet.

(1) Dark Green Leafy Vegetables: 

Leafy greens are packed with essential vitamins and minerals. You can get sufficient amounts of vitamins A, B12, C, and vitamin K from them. Green leafy vegetables are also rich in magnesium, iron, and folic acid. These minerals are important for pregnant women.

(2) Blueberries: 

Blueberries are considered super fruits. They are rich in vitamin C and antioxidants that could help strengthen your immune system. Blueberries are also versatile fruits because you can use them to prepare home made yogurt, ice cream, and jams. Prunes are also rich in nutrients and are essential for both the pregnant mother and the developing child because prunes combine the goodness of fiber, iron and potassium.

3) Potatoes: 

Never underestimate the nutritional benefits of the lowly potato. It is a good source of complex carbohydrates and fibers. Potatoes are filling and they could help improve the digestion of pregnant women.

(4) Orange Juice: 

The good old OJ should always be included in your pregnancy diet. Drink at least two cups of freshly squeezed orange juice daily to properly regulate your blood pressure. Oranges are also packed with vitamin C, vitamin A, and antioxidants.

(5) Fiber Rich Bran Cereals: 

Bran cereals are the best power breakfast for pregnant women. Cereals contain high amounts of fiber and folic acid. They are needed by the fetus for proper brain development.

(6) Chicken Breast: 

Low fat chicken breast can provide most of your protein needs during pregnancy. It is also packed with niacin, vitamin B6, and selenium. Just make sure to eat free range and organically grown chicken.

(7) Low Fat Yogurt: 

Pregnant women can benefit greatly from low fat yogurt. It is a complete food that contains proteins, calcium, and multivitamins. The calcium and protein combination could promote good muscle development.

(8) Almonds And Cashew: 

All nuts are good sources of quick protein for pregnant women. But if you are looking for super-nuts that provide rich amounts of vitamin E and manganese, then almonds and cashews are your best options.

(9) Legumes And Beans: 

Pregnant women can enjoy the versatility of beans and legumes. You can prepare them in any way you want. Most importantly, they are excellent sources of proteins, carbohydrates, good fats, and minerals specifically folate.

(10) Salmon: 

Fish should always be included in your diet. But pregnant women who are looking for a delicious sea food treat that contains high amount of Omega 3 fatty acid, salmon should be on top of their shopping list. Choose sockeye salmon caught in the wild because it is also high in vitamin D.

Do You Know Some More To Add to The list Above? 

We have listed above ten foods which are beneficial for the pregnant women. For the benefit of the readers would you like to add some more to the list above? Go ahead and do so by putting your comments below.

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Asthma During Pregnancy and Effects

Every women is excited during pregnancy and very rightly so there are reasons to rejoice. Developing asthma during pregnancy is very common even in women who have never had a history of asthma earlier. Asthma during pregnancy makes it difficult for the pregnant women to breathe normally and this condition not only effects the women but also the fetus which is growing inside you which is dependent on you for the oxygen supply to breathe. Having said that, never assume that having asthma during pregnancy will make your pregnancy difficult or dangerous for your fetus. Pregnant women with controlled asthma can have absolutely normal deliveries with no risk to themselves or their baby. So now the question is how to treat asthma during pregnancy.

Don’t Stop The Asthma Treatment Abruptly:

However if you are taking the treatment for asthma before you got pregnant, never stop it in between fearing that the medication might adversely effect you fetus without the advice of you doctor, because asthma attack during pregnancy would be more harmful than the medication. Uncontrolled asthma during pregnancy pose a greater risk because in such cases the delivery may be premature and the baby may be born underweight. Severe asthma during pregnancy has a greater risk to the fetus which is deprived of the required supply of oxygen from the mother.

Asthma Symptoms During Pregnancy:

Asthma symptoms during pregnancy are same as those at any other time. There are about 10% chances of having an asthma attack during pregnancy, however if the condition deteriorates the symptoms are worst during the period between 6th to 8th months, its therefore advisable to inform your healthcare provider of your asthmatic symptoms to get the proper treatment of asthma during pregnancy. In most cases the asthma symptoms become normal within three months of delivery.

Asthma can be controlled during pregnancy, you can have a normal and healthy delivery just as any other women without asthma, if you have controlled asthma symptoms.

What Triggers An Asthma Attack?

Triggers of asthma during pregnancy are same as that at any other time however their severity may be different depending upon the changes of hormone during pregnancy.

Common triggers of asthma are as follows –

First hand or second hand cigarette smoke

Bacterial and viral infections such as cold, bronchitis, flu and sinusitis

Acid reflux or acidity

Allergic reactions from chemicals

Smoke from cooking or wood fire

Allergies from certain foods

Upsets in emotional relationships

Strong perfumes and sprays

Dust mite and pet allergies

Treatment Of Asthma During Pregnancy:

Asthma during pregnancy can be managed in the same way as it is managed at any other time. The best treatment at the first place is to avoid an asthma attack. So keep a check on your triggers and try to avoid them as far as possible. You may also consider some breathing exercises for asthmatics if you doctor suggests so.

Take care of the following -

Keep away from tobacco and tobacco products, if you smoke its better to quit smoking

Keep away from people suffering from cold or flu

Keep away from things you are allergic to

If you suffer from acidity or heartburn avoid eating heavy and spicy food

Clean your house of the irritants which may cause your asthma to trigger

Medications:

There are usually two types of medications to control asthma, one is a long term medication to prevent and control asthma symptoms and the other is for a quick relief from asthma attacks. Long term medication during pregnancy is inhaled corticosteroids. These medications are sometimes combined to form one single preparation of inhaled steroid and long acting beta agonist. For fast relief from asthma attacks inhaled short acting beta agonists are taken to get immediate relief from asthma symptoms.

Your Comments ~

Asthma during pregnancy is a concern which should be addressed promptly, though asthma symptoms can be controlled by timely action and proper medications. How do you find the information listed above? Please submit your feedback in the comments below to let us improve to serve you better.

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Shortness Of Breath During Pregnancy

Shortness of breath during pregnancy is one of the early symptoms of pregnancy. You feel short of breath even after the minimal amount of physical activity. Though, generally speaking shortness of breath during pregnancy is harmless and does not affect your baby.

Causes Of Shortness Of Breath During Pregnancy:

During Early Pregnancy:

During the first few weeks of pregnancy, there is a normal increase in hormone progesterone which makes you breathe more often and you fell like shortness of breath. Hormone progesterone expands the lungs which allow the blood to carry large amount of oxygen to the baby.

During Later Half Of Pregnancy:

Duding later stages of pregnancy, the size of the baby grows because of this the growing size of the uterus takes up more room in the belly causing shortness of breath.

During 31st to 34th week of pregnancy the uterus pushes other organs in the body and presses the diaphragm causing shortness of breath.

Due to these changes it becomes difficult for the lungs to expand fully.

This makes breathing more shallow which causes shortness of breath.

During The End Of Pregnancy:

During the last weeks of pregnancy, one feels less shortness of breath because the baby goes deep into the pelvic region for the final birth.

With the baby in the pelvic region, there is less pressure on the diaphragm and lungs which decreases shortness of breath.

However severe shortness of breath during pregnancy is not normal. If you have fast pulse rate and chest pain and you finger tips or lips are turning blue, you should immediately consult your doctor. Also see your doctor if you have asthma and you are pregnant.

How To Overcome Shortness Of Breath During Pregnancy:

Follow these tips to help overcome shortness of breath during pregnancy –

Sit straight or stand up as this posture gives your lungs more room to breath easily.

Move slowly to ease pressure on your lungs and heart to facilitate proper breathing.

Take pressure off your rib cage by lifting your arms over your head this makes you to breathe in more air.

Though you may continue to exercise during pregnancy but don’t exert too much and go easy.

To put less pressure on your lungs, sleep propped up on your left side.

When To Take The Medical Advice:

Mild shortness of breath during pregnancy is normal but if you feel a sudden and severe shortness of breath during pregnancy talk to your doctor immediately.

Call your doctor if you have any of these symptoms –

Heart palpitations

Pain in the chest

A fast pulse rate

Feeling faintness

Blood in your cough

Persistent coughing

Blueness on fingers, lips or toes

Aggravating asthma

Feeling feverish

Breathing problem during pregnancy should be given proper medical attention, especially if you have asthma, talk to your doctor on how to manage asthma during pregnancy. Condition of your asthma may improve, worsen or remain the same during pregnancy. During the third trimester of pregnancy, labour and delivery women with moderate or severe asthma are at increased risk of asthma attack.

Have You Experienced Shortness Of Breath During Pregnancy?

Hope you have got an insight into the condition of shortness of breath during pregnancy so as to make you aware and properly equipped to deal with the situation. Do share your experiences with us in the comments below.

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Instant Tips To Get Beautiful And Blemish Free Skin

We’ve all heard the saying ‘beautiful skin comes from the inside’ and it is absolutely true. What you eat shows up in your complexion.

As experts say – Acne cannot be treated by soaps and creams because the root cause lies beneath the skin. Dr. Gary Null in Complete Encyclopedia of Natural Healing says – the main cause for pimples are bacteria and other irritants which are underneath the skin’s oil glands and hair follicles, this is due to poor diet and hygiene. Consuming lots of dairy products, sugar, meat, fried and fatty foods also result in pimples.

Here Are Your Tips For Blemish Free Skin:

First: 

One of the simplest changes you can make that will definitely, 100% clear up acne and blemishes, is to eliminate dairy from your diet. Milk and dairy products, namely, yogurt, cheese, chocolate, milk, sour cream, cream cheese and all the other products made with cow’s milk are the main cause of acne. Studies show that because of the hormones found in milk – called androgen hormones they react with the human body’s natural hormones and wreak havoc.

Milk and dairy are filled with hormones, androgen hormones and di-hydrotestosterone, or DHT. DHT in the body looks for a way to escape – hence, the pores, and oily skin. The more oily the skin, the more blockages occur and the more blemishes.

Studies done by the Journal of American Academy of Dermatology found that acne and milk are synonymous. Teen-aged boys were studied and it was documented and published in the May 2008 issue, that the largest milk drinkers had the worse cases of acne.

Farmers and dairy farmers give their cows what is called bovine growth hormones, or BGH – which is attributed to the cows on today’s dairy farms, producing 100 times more milk than they would naturally. One hundred times – that’s a lot of hormones. Strangely, the U.S. is the only country in the world that still allows humans to drink milk with this artificial growth hormone and it does the body bad – as well as your skin.

Second:

On the list of skin harming effects are meat products. These products carry the same hormones as milk, along with saturated fat and cholesterol, and that isn’t healthy for anyone. Beef, chicken, turkey, pork and yes, even turkey, have enormous amounts of hormones, and fat. These animals are raised to grow twice their normal size, in half the time. How do they do that? They feed them high levels of hormones and fatty food.

Saturated fats contribute to oily skin, not to mention a huge strain on your internal organs, putting them into a state of imbalance. With the burden of toxins that your elimination system has to deal with, the real release of them is through the skin – and low and behold – blemishes, and unhealthy skin is the result.

Third:

Avoid fried foods because of the oils and fats, including trans-fats which are not good for healthy skin. Not all fats are bad, avocados are high in fat, but these are the good fats that contain healing properties. Bad fats are common in the American diet, such as hydrogenated vegetable oils and lard (animal fat)- and foods fried in these types of fats can do serious damage to your skin, and your health.

Fourth:

Sugar does serious damage to skin, especially in large amounts. Coca Cola and soda are the worse culprits, because you are drinking high levels of sugar in liquid, so it goes down much easier than say, a donut, or piece of cake. But the level of sugar in soda is astonishing. For one 12-ounce soda can, you are consuming nearly 40 grams of sugar. If you stop at a convenience store, a big-gulp (28 ounces) contains sugar totals of 91 grams.

Fifth:

Coffee and caffeine are two prime suspects in deterring healthy skin. Caffeine stimulates hormones, and is defined as an alkaloid and stimulant that produces sebum – an oily secretion caused by the sebaceous glands, which causes pore clogging and hair follicles, which in turn, causes blemishes.

Sixth:

Do not smoke! Although smoking has not been linked to acne, or blemishes, smoking does harm the skin in many ways. It constricts blood vessels, which results in wounds healing slower, psoriasis and is closely related to premature skin aging. It also creates free radicals, reduces collagen production, and hurts skin proteins.

Seventh:

Stress is a major factor in skin health. During times of stress, the adrenal glands produce more hormones – yes, androgen, and enlargement of the oil glands, or sebaceous glands, to create more oil, and oil blocks pores, which traps the oil within the skin, causing breakouts.

Eighth: 

Change your diet for the best results of all – include lots of fruits and veggies, and eat them whole and raw as much as possible. Have organic food because the toxins and pesticides on fruits and veggies are harmful to your body. Eat whole grains such as oatmeal, brown rice, whole wheat and whole grain breads, and whole-wheat pastas. For protein eat beans, lentils, legumes, nuts, (but limit them because of the high content of oils) and find creative ways to cook tofu.

Tofu is one of my favorite foods, and once you get used to it, the health benefits are tremendous. It is low in fat, and very high in protein and many other essential vitamins and minerals. Tofu is made of soybeans. I stir fry mine in soy sauce, and sometimes teriyaki sauce, and brown it really good – yummy!

Ninth: 

Drink at least 8 glasses of pure water per day, and for a purifying drink – use green teas which come in all different flavors, such as raspberry and orange – and don’t add sugar. If you crave sugary drinks, drink pure apple and pineapple juice, they are sweet, but naturally sweet and make sure they don’t have any added sugars. Most of all, stay away from processed foods such as potato chips, sweet packaged foods cereals, ice cream, and anything that comes in a box or is altered from it’s natural form.

Conclusion:-

If you do all of these things, you should see changes in days, and lasting changes to your skin for the rest of your life. Not to mention the healthy glow that will begin, including clearer eyes, and a bright healthy smile.

Do You Have Some Tips To Share? 

Hope the above mentioned tips to get beautiful and blemish free skin proves helpful to everyone. If you have any other tips to share on the topic please mention them in the comments below.

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