1/31/2005

Early Sign Of Pregnancy: Just What Are We Looking For Here?


Many have heard a lot on an early sign of pregnancy. Some hold true, whilst others may be highly exaggerated. Add the fact that no two ever experience exactly the same early sign of pregnancy. The best way to be closer to sure would be taking a pregnancy test. Today you have many options for affordable home pregnancy tests as well. What follows are several other explanations for what might be an early sign of pregnancy.

Early Sign of Pregnancy: Some details you really should know

1. The top of the list deceptive early sign of pregnancy would have to be the missed period. There are many other explanations for this symptom that can often put in practice. Amongst the reasons besides pregnancy can include acute psychological stress, overproduction of progesterone and estrogen hormones, amid other causes that can inhibit or cease the process as we know it. There are a world of reasons that ovulation cycles can come out balance.

2. Morning sickness is another early sign of pregnancy that may be misleading. Several women appear to have undergone this at different stages and turned out not pregnant. The more legitimate cases often occur at the 4-6 week mark; however even then it is far from a 100% sign of pregnancy. Others have legitimately experienced morning sickness at other times as well. Other causes can include common illnesses such as the flu, dietary imbalances, stress, amid many other digestive disorders.

3. Strange binges for food are another early sign of pregnancy that have turned out false at times. Often among them can be even strange delicacies such as peanut butter and banana sandwiches, as well as pickles and ice-cream. These are signs of dietary concerns that can be results of pregnancy but not exclusively. Outside of pregnancy, they are frequently connected with acute short-falls of vitamin and mineral intake for the body. The craving in this case results with foods that contain these.

4. There are a quantity of other symptoms of early pregnancy that have been seen. Swelling, changes in the usual physical aspects and so on. These can also be signals of other serious conditions such as cancer, diabetes, degenerative bodily imbalances, between other lesser diseases. Pregnant or otherwise it's wise to consult your medical practitioner.

Phantom Pregnancies are a mix of several signals of early pregnancy where there is in fact no pregnancy. This happens to some that are extremely set on having a baby though haven't yet. This stringent want can produce one sign or more to seem to happen. Morning sickness, missed period, and most of the rest have been known to occur within a phantom pregnancy.

All the advice here on the possible deception of an early sign of pregnancy is just a short list. There are a portion of other signals that people find deceptive as well. The preferred method is to have a pregnancy test, and see what the results are there. Follow-up with a gp after home tests is wise as well as better early care can lead to a healthier family in the long run.

1/30/2005

How to Have a Fit Pregnancy


Whatever the age there is a lot that can be said about being fit. However, there are superior health benefits to accomplishing fitness while pregnant for both the new baby and the mother. The following are some of the elements needed for a fit pregnancy.

Diet and Nutrition

In regards to diet and nutrition a fit pregnancy is constituted by relative and ultimately up to the mother to be to decide. Comfort zones work for pregnancy and this includes comfort food. Pregnancy is a fit time to make positive dietary adjustments even though spouses, friends and in-laws will have their influence.

Everything from monitoring weight and body fat to in take of fruits and vegetables should come under initial scrutiny even what the cravings are. Some say that certain cravings have to do with the young soul in the womb, but sometimes they are indications of nutritional requirements.

Early on in the pregnancy such concerns and much more should usually be discussed with the OB/GYN. Dietary intake vs. activity level should be looked at for a fit pregnancy. With each pregnancy the recommended daily requirements can vary. Iron rich foods may need to be increased by an active woman while other women who are less active will need to increase their fiber rich veggies and easy to digest food.

During pregnancy you shouldn't be surprised about cravings that evolve from specific foods to whole food group preferences. Try to add something good to your diet every week is a simple rule of thumb to try Using a Pregnancy Due Date Calculator.

Happy, Healthy and Wholesome

During pregnancy there are several factors involved in achieving a happy fitness balance. Movement with reasonable levels of strenuous exercise, lots of warm up and again a reasonable cool down time are included in a pregnancy fitness program.

A well-balanced yoga regimen that means union is designed for pregnancy fitness and is a really great idea. Ask the yoga instructor for references and do your research to find out about actual moms who have gone through the program.

Oxygen

Important to athletes, race horses and babies is blood oxygen levels. During pregnancy a great way to accomplish this is keeping cardio fit. The baby gets both good amounts of oxygen and steady nutrient flow in the bloodstream as the body works more efficiently which is a real bonus.

On the delivery day, fitness during pregnancy will show. The quick restoration of body tone and normal weight will be aided by the good habits you have established and using them during the recovery days Pregnancy Diary.

1/29/2005

The Risks of Snoring During Pregnancy


Are you pregnant and have been snoring lately? You could already be suffering from sleep apnea.

Pregnancy takes a woman to scores of emotional and physical changes, which is primarily caused by hormonal changes � with estrogen being the dominant hormone during pregnancy. Increase in estrogen reportedly makes the neck muscles to relax and compounded with the accumulated fats around the neck area cause snoring. Snoring during pregnancy usually occurs in the last four weeks of gestation (this accounts to 30% of pregnant women). This is normal and a preferred sleeping position like sleeping on the sides usually alters this. Most pregnant women feel more relaxed when sleeping on their sides to avoid the weight of their bellies especially during the third trimester.

For excessive or chronic snoring, it may be a sign of sleep apnea. Sleep apnea is characterized by a pause in breathing for about 10 seconds resulting to oxygen-deprivation and further complicates to preemclampsia. Preeclampsia is a condition that only happens during pregnancy and is associated with high blood pressure, proteinuria (protein present in urine), and swelling. Patients with preemclampsia may have any or all of the following symptoms: sleepiness during daytime, headaches, blurred vision, abnormalities in liver function and vomiting. If only one of these symptoms occur, it is not a sign of preeclampsia.

Consequently, a study found out that snoring during pregnancy is more common in women who have put on more of the ideal weight. 14% of the women who snored had pregnancy-induced hypertension. 52% of the pregnant women who habitually snored experienced edema (swelling) of the face, hands, legs, and feet compared to 30% who didn't snore.

Meanwhile, oxygen deprivation in patients with sleep apnea has been correlated with growth retardation of the fetus and sometimes, death. If excessive snoring during pregnancy occurs, a physician's advice needs to be sought because the condition could be devastating to the mother and unborn child. Infants born to mothers who were snoring during pregnancy frequently had lower birth weight and Apgar scores (a test taken immediately after a baby is born regarding heart rate, breathing, reflex, muscle tone, and skin color). From this study, although the causes of preemclampsia are unknown, there seems to be a correlation between snoring, preeclampsia, and to babies with lower birth weights.

An expectant woman's condition is crucial to the development of the unborn child in same manner that a pregnant woman also needs to take care of her well-being. Snoring during pregnancy is a sign of or could lead to poor physical health which could be harmful to the mother and baby. It is important that a pregnant woman undergoes regular pre-natal checkups and reports any physical complaints to a physician.

1/28/2005

Teens pregnancy Today's major Problem


According to a survey Seven hundred and fifty thousand teen girls get pregnant each year and thirty one percent young women get pregnant before 20. The birthrate for young teenagers aged 15-17 fell 8 percent from 2000 to 2001, reaching 25.3 births per 1,000 teenagers. So teen's pregnancy is one of the major problems. This is the one problem when teens did not decide what to do. They could not talk to their parents.

One of the main causes of teen's pregnancy is that they can't have full knowledge about sex. They do not have safe sex, and get pregnant.
The evidence documenting the unfavorable consequences of unintended teenage pregnancy and teenage parenthood. There is an unmistakable and dramatic trend away from teenagers giving their children up for adoption.

About 62 percent of sexually active teenagers who have never used a method have experienced a premarital pregnancy, compared to 30 percent of those who have used a method inconsistently

Symptoms There are many pregnancy early signs for teens.

A missed period
Nausea or vomiting
Frequent urination
Tenderness and fullness of breasts
Fatigue
Changes in appetite

Pregnancy Test There are so many kits available in the market to test yourself at home. If the test is positive then go to the doctor and get right treatment.

The solution must come from many elements of society: parents, the churches, the schools, state and local legislatures and government agencies. Very few come to a clinic in anticipation of initiating sexual intercourse, and many come because they fear�often correctly�that they are pregnant.

Working with boys and young men- This approach can be used to intervene in contraceptive use among teenagers. Because contraceptive action involves a preventive health decision followed by correct and consistent use.

Parents and Sex Education they communicate with their children about sex and sexual values nonverbally. This is also true when the subject is sex. Research shows that positive communication between parents and their children can help young people establish individual values and make healthy decisions. Some parents may be afraid they do not know the right answers or feel confused about the proper amount of information to offer.

The real smart move on your part is to take the help and don't get pushed into doing something you can't take back. So to reduce the problem of teen's pregnancy parents are advice to talk to teens frankly on sex education, so the can not do something wrong in future.

For help go to following:

http://www.troubledteens4jesus.com/

http://www.abundantlifeacademy.info

http://www.abundantlifeacademy.us/

Troubled Teens Directory is the most honest and integral Internet-based educational consulting service available and designed to serve parents who are need of guidance in regard to their troubled teen and Restoring Troubled Teens is a Directory Listing of Schools and Articles specifically designed to support the parents of Troubled Teens.

1/27/2005

Congratulations! You're 10 Weeks Pregnant


Can you believe it? You're now 10 weeks preganant. You'll begin seeing some changes now. Your baby has begun to move around a little in your belly, although it's still too soon to feel anything.

When you're 10 weeks pregnant, your baby will approximately an inch long. Doesn't seem like much, but it's amazing. At only one inch, your baby has formed most of its joints including ankles, wrists, shoulders, hands, feet and a lot more.

Your baby also weighs in at 4 grams. Some of the other things that are happening with your baby at 10 weeks pregnant include genitalia which are now beginning to differentiate from each other. No, it is still way to soon to know if you have a boy or girl, but it is the start of the process. Also, spinal nerves are continuing to grow, and your baby is beginning to grow toenails as well.

Now that you're 10 weeks pregnant, that dreaded morning sickness will slowly begin to subside over the next few weeks. This is great news indeed!

Perhaps you think you're showing signs of being pregnant, but it is still a little too early for anyone else to really see a big change and start asking you about it. What is beginning to happen though, is that you're starting to lose your waistline.

Due to an increased blood volume in your body, you may notice that your veins are showing, when in the past this never happened. Don't worry, this is completely normal. It frequently happens in women's legs and breasts when you're 10 weeks pregnant.

One thing you should now be able to do when you see your doctor next, is hear your baby's hearbeat. That is an incredible feeling the first time you hear it.

Many things are beginning to happen for you now, and there is so much more to come. Be sure you do all you can to get plenty of rest during your pregnancy. You should also strive to stay on a healthy diet. When you see your doctor, ask them about any health issues and questions that you may have. Congratulations again on being 10 weeks pregnant!

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1/26/2005

Cold Sores And Pregnancy - What Effect Can It Have On Your Baby?


Cold sores and pregnancy, although rare, can be serious concern for new mothers who suffer from the herpes simplex virus. It is understandable to be concerned, so let's take a deeper look into this health issue.

The herpes simplex virus that causes cold sores is not a genetic condition, meaning that you can't automatically pass it on to your unborn child. The cold sore virus is only spread by coming in direct contact with someone who is infected.

Cold sores and pregnancy can be a health concern during the delivery of your baby. If you are about to give birth and have an active cold sore or herpes outbreak around the birth canal, your doctor will do a c-section delivery instead to protect your baby from coming in contact with the virus. It's important to note that if you have herpes, but are not currently having an outbreak, a normal delivery should be fine.

Studies have shown that women who have had the herpes simplex virus long before becoming pregnant are at a very low risk of infecting the baby.

The one area that is of greatest concern is if you contract the herpes virus for the first time during your pregnancy. There will be a very high likelyhood of passing it on to your baby. Neonatal herpes as it is termed, can be fatal to your baby. You must get in contact with your doctor immediately if this occurs. Since Neonatal herpes is not a reportable disease in many different states, it is impossible to know exactly how many cases there are each year. Estimates put the number at 1,000-3,000, so cold sores and pregnancy are a concern to be mindful of, especially if you have had them in the past.

What is more amazing, and quite sad, is the fact that 5%-8% of all newborn babies who contract neonatal herpes get the virus by being kissed from an adult who has an active cold sore. While this is hard to believe, it points out the fact that you have to be careful in who is around your new baby.

The best tip in regards to having cold sores and wanting to get pregnant is to talk with your health care provider beforehand. Regardless of whether you currently have an active herpes outbreak, or if it has been years ago, talk with the medical experts and get all your questions answered in regards to cold sores and pregnancy.

1/17/2005

Female Hair Loss


Hair loss is a common problem amongst all the men and women. Many of the women of our society are facing the problems of hair fall and even going almost bald. The cause may be any but sometime it affects the confidence of women more in comparison to their male counterparts. Hair of a woman is the important asset to make her healthy and gorgeous. For many of the women hair problems are not only a biological setbacks but a part of self-esteem too.

The root cause of hair loss in women is not genetic but it is related to several other metabolic problems like, pregnancy, stress, chemotherapy, crash diets / anorexia, thyroid hormone deficiency, major surgery, sever infection or high fever. Hair loss in female due to above mentioned factors is normally temporary, so if you are facing hair loss and at the same time going through any of the above mentioned �trauma', don't be panic, keep patience, take prescriptions and precautions and after all a diet rich in proteins, vitamins and minerals. Definitely your hair will grow again and as healthy as before.

The pattern of hair loss in females is completely different from males. While males go bald, the baldness in females is rare. The normally occurring pattern of hair loss in females are found as thinning and lessening in shaft hair diameter around the forehead and crown of the scalp. The pattern is more to be found in females in the forties. This pattern may also found in the females with the beginning of menopause. According to clinical trial and statistics, about 13 percent of females experience hair problems before menopause while this number is alarmingly high, about 37% for post menopause.

As a female grew old, the intensity and level of a hormone called Estrogen drops in her body. The estrogens blocks the steroid hormone pre menopause, which results in low level of DHT. Post menopause the level of DHT in females rises and some time it is so high that it causes hair problems.

Amongst commonly occurring post menopause hair problems are decline in hair growth, thinning of hair and general effluvium. As a female enters into her 80's, the follicle shrinks completely and hair growth stops.

The very reason of hair problems in women after post menopause is the reduction of estrogen in the body. The different estrogen opposes androgens and makes themselves unavailable for the cells, by blocking androgen receptors.

Opposing estrogens reduces heavily at onset of menopause but androgens remain available to the hair follicle and stem cell that is converted to DHT.

Major Causes of Hair Loss in Females

The most common type hair problems diagnosed in females is Androgenetic alopecia inherited. However, this is most common cause of hair problems in males as well. Androgenic alopecia in females is seen as hair thinning which means the number of hair on female head heavily reduces. Since the reason of hair loss varies individual to individual and hence proper medical help is of utmost importance.

Some other common causes of hair problems of females are mentioned here:

1.Alopecia areata- This is patchy loss of hair from the scalp. Sometime eyebrows and other hair bearing parts begin losing hair. This type of hair loss is considered to be due to autoimmune.

2.Traction alopecia- This type of hair loss occurs because of continuous traction pressure on hair follicles. Sometime this may occur because of tight braiding or corn � rowing of hair.

3.Trichtotillomania- This type is supposed to be cause of stress or result of some other psychological disorder.

4.Telogen effluvium- This is associated with poor nutrition, drugs and stress.

5.Loose anagen syndrome- This disease is more common in fair haired ladies. This is the situation in which bunch of hairs drops down while combing, shampooing, etc. Normally the scalp hair comes out very easily and this lessens the hair density on your head.

6.Triangular alopecia- In this situation hair around temples lost.

7.Scarring alopecia- This type of hair loss in females is caused, when one goes through some type of physical trauma etc. Sometime traction alopecia introduce to scarring alopecia

Best Hair Loss ProductsSo if you are a female and suffering with hair loss problems, go for professional medical help, take a diet rich in nutrition and prevent hair loss.

1/16/2005

Pregnancy And Having Gestational Diabetes


While it is true that gestational diabetes will only affect 5% of all pregnant women, for those who have it, it's a very serious health issue. You'll need to keep a close eye on what you eat and have a very well balanced diet more than ever for the rest of your pregnancy if you have developed gestational diabetes.

How does gestational diabetes occur? Gestational diabetes develops when your body isn't able to produce or use insulin, which controls the sugar in your blood. When large amounts of glucose builds up in your blood, your cells aren't getting the energy they need. High blood sugar levels can be harmful to not only you, but your baby as well. This is why doctors test every pregnant mother to be at around 26 weeks of pregnancy.

By following a specific diet you can usually keep your blood sugar level under control. Of course, your doctor will help you with a diet especially suited for you. This diet is made based on your weight, height, physical activity, and the needs of your growing baby, as well as your level of glucose intolerance.

There is also a good amount of information on the Internet in regards to a gestational diabetes diet. This article simply brings some of the basics together. Be sure to always consult with your doctor or dietitian before making any changes to your diet.

One of the important points is to eat a variety of foods every day. Distribute calories and carbohydrates evenly during the day. Eating well balanced meals is a key to success. The American Diabetes Association suggests that you eat three small to moderate sized meals and two to four snacks every day, including an after dinner snack.
Keep in mind that you do not want to skip any meals. This can have a negative effect on your blood sugar levels and create potential problems.

Drink milk in moderation. Since milk is high in lactose, which is a simple sugar, drinking more than two or three glasses a day may do you more harm than good. Other sources of calcium are available. Try for example club soda with a squeeze of lemon or orange, or unsweetened decaffeinated iced tea.

Exercise will have a positive effect on keeping your glucose levels normal. Be sure you consult with your doctor to see how intense your exercise can be. You don't want to overdo it because it can actually be harmful for gestational diabetes.

Keeping your gestational diabetes under control during pregnancy may seem somewhat difficult, but you can do it. Follow the recommendations from your health care professional and you'll get through your pregnancy with flying colors.

1/15/2005

Pregnant! What's This About Morning Sickness?


Congratulations! You're pregnant!
One minute you're overjoyed with your news, the next you're brought back down to earth with a thud.

And with it,the rude awakening that soon after conception, your body begins undergoing a series of major changes to help prepare it for your baby's growth and development.

Mother Nature loves irony. How else to explain taking the happiest time in a
woman's life and causing her to become physically ill and miserable?

And, what's with using the term, "morning
sickness"? Actually, the correct term is
"nausea and vomiting of pregnancy". Which is
closer to the truth since the condition can
and will occur anytime of the day.

Facts about the condition:
1. 50-95% of pregnant women suffer from it
2. dehydration can happen in extreme cases
3. occurs in first month of pregnancy
4. continues until 14th-16th week
5. 50% of women will suffer for another
month

Although nobody will say for sure what the
definite causes are, the theories are:
1. estrogen level increase
2. low blood sugar
3. increased sensitivity to smells where
many odors instantly trigger the gag-
reflex
4. rise in progesterone level . This
hormone helps relax the uterus in order
to prevent early labor but it also
relaxes the stomach and intestines
which cause excess acids in the stomach
and slower waste removal.
5. eating unhealthy foods. Seems the body
has a sure-fire way to make sure you
don't ingest anything not good for you
or baby. Vomiting!
6. and this doozy. an increase in human
chorionic gonadotropin! Now you know
why they prefer to call it (hCG) This
is a peptide hormone produced by the
embryo soon after conception and later
on by the placenta. It's role is to
maintain crucial levels of progesterone
production vital in human pregnancies.
7. excess salivation which nauseates some
women

It's difficult to spend time on the causes when all you want is relief. As with
anything to do with the human body, there's no one-size-fits-all remedy. There will be a period of trial and error as you find what
works for you. Of course it goes without saying, you will be consulting with your doctor/care-provider.

So here are some corrective measures used by many women:
1. eating small, frequent meals. An empty
stomach produces an acid which
aggravates the stomach lining.
2. foods should be high in proteins and
complex carbohydrates. Yogurt, cheese
and eggs for example.
Whole-grain breads and cereals. Don't
make the mistake of thinking of whole-
wheat as being whole-grain. You want
the product label to say " 100% whole-
grain". Big difference and healthy for
mother and baby.
3. drink fluids. Dehydration makes
everything worse. Extreme cases need to
be hospitalized. If you can't stomach
fluids, try eating fruit which has high
water content and low acid like grapes
and watermellon
4. ginger (zingiber officinale) The age-
old remedy for upset stomachs. Either
capsules, tea or ginger-snaps and
candy. Try to get ginger ale made with
real ginger. Usually not supermarket
brands. You may have to try the health-
food section in your grocery or an
actual health-food store.
5. brushing teeth after vomiting will
decrease excess saliva and lessen
stomach turmoil. And, prevents tooth
decay and makes you feel better.
6. get proper rest. Fatigue and stress
will cause morning sickness to worsen.
If able to, nap often.
7. stay away from fatty, spicy, rich,
acidic and ried foods
8. eat crackers before getting out of bed.
Get up slowly.
9. take prenatal vitamins later on in the
day
10. try vitamin B6
11. microwave cooking produces less odors.
Better yet, have someone else do the
cooking while you, lucky girl, stay
away!
12. go smell lemons. Believe it or not,
relief may be found by sprinkling
essential oil of lemon on a
handkerchief and holding it to your
nose.
13. warm places can trigger nausea. Try to
stay cool. If not in air conditioning,
install fans around you. Even a battery-
operated hand-held fan can bring relief.
14. if your stomach agrees, eat what you
want when you want it. Your special
cravings are trying to tell you
something.
It can be downright annoying when well-
meaning friends and family tell you, "This too shall pass". Especially when you feel miserable. Usually after the first trimester, you will again be concentrating on
happy, future events.

And, Congratulations!

(c) 2006 Karen Cook

Reference Sources: Wikipedia and Encyclopedia of Alternative Medicine

1/14/2005

Temporary Health Insurance 101


The need for temporary health insurance can happen for a variety of reasons: between jobs, on strike, seasonal employee, etc. Also commonly referred to as short term health insurance, temporary health insurance is issued for a limited period of time, typically from 30 days to 12 months. Temporary health insurance is meant to be a short term solution to temporary problems, and always has a specified termination date. In any case, you may be surprised that it is easier to qualify for such a plan than it is for the traditional longer term, or permanent, plan.

The main reason temporary health insurance is easier to qualify for than permanent health insurance has to do with the level of risk that an insurance company assumes. With a short term plan, the insurance company is not accepting a long term risk. However, with permanent health insurance, an individual potentially can stay on the same policy until he or she is eligible for Medicare at age 65.

The application process is also typically simpler for temporary health insurance. Typically, only a few questions are required to determine eligibility. Some of the more common questions would ask about any currently held policies and when they are scheduled to end, any current pregnancy, whether you have you been refused health insurance in the past, and any past medical conditions you have been treated for (e.g. cancer, diabetes, heart problems, stroke, blood disorders, history of alcohol or drug dependency, HIV, etc.).

As you might expect, your eligibility for temporary health insurance will depend on your health history and how you answer the questions above. Temporary health plans generally do not cover preexisting conditions, which is another reason they are easier to obtain. Nonetheless, you may still be eligible for one of these plans, but would likely not receive any benefits for treatment of your preexisting condition. Accordingly, the underwriting process for temporary health insurance is much shorter than it is for permanent plans. In most cases, if you qualify, you can expect coverage to begin within 24 hours of applying.

Lastly, although it is easier to qualify for temporary health insurance, it's usually wise to think of such insurance as only a "stop gap" solution to get you by until you are eligible for a better, longer term plan. In addition, even though short term coverage is less comprehensive, being without any coverage is risky; and given the relative ease with which you can receive a short term policy, there really is no reason not to protect yourself and you family.

1/13/2005

How to organize a baby shower


Although a newborn's arrival into the world can be a joyful occasion, it can also bring a lot of stress�not just for the parents, but for family and friends as well.

Baby showers are the perfect example. While they are used to celebrate the arrival of a brand new life into the world, they can also be stressful for the person hosting the occasion. If you are planning to throw a baby shower for a friend or a relative, and you are not sure exactly how to start organizing it, this article provides some tips.

Best time for a baby shower?

The best time to throw a baby shower is on the weekend, preferably mid-morning to late afternoon. Why? Because people work during the week. Also, consider having the baby shower later on in the mother-to-be pregnancy, around 9 weeks before the birth is best.

A baby shower can also be held after the birth of the child. This is the best plan if the mother-to-be is having complications with her pregnancy.

How many people should I invite?

One normally invites anywhere from 10 to 20 people to a baby shower. What one should also take into consideration when inviting people, is whether or not the location of the baby shower can accommodate only a few or a large group of people.

How long should a baby shower last?

A baby shower generally lasts about two to three hours. That should be enough time for everyone to mingle, the presents to be opened, and food eaten. Also, take into consideration the mother-to-be is more easily exhausted.

Who should pay for the baby shower?

The host/hostess should pay for the baby shower. A baby shower is perceived as a gift from the host to the bride. It is not unusual or wrong for the host to ask family or close friends to help out monetarily. So, if you need some financial help, don't be shy in asking family and close friends. What is not acceptable is asking the mother-to-be for monetary help.

Should I throw a surprise shower?

If you are thinking of throwing a surprise shower, you may want to rethink. Surprise showers can cause the host all kinds of problems, namely making sure the mother-to-be arrives at the shower on time. The best plan is to throw a baby shower that the mother-to-be is aware of because she can offer much needed suggestions to the host.

Do you need to send out invitations?

Yes, one needs to send out invitations for a baby shower. It does not have to involve fancy stationery. One can go to any greeting card store and purchase invitations at a reasonable price. It is also important that you send out the invitations a few weeks in advance, preferably three to four weeks.

Can I have games at the baby shower?

Games are indeed very popular at baby showers. However, baby showers are primarily about the food, drink (non-alcoholic), presents and conversations. So while having games at a baby shower is fine, do not feel pressured to have them. If you do opt for games at a baby shower, be creative and make sure the games center on the baby and mother-to-be.

When should the presents be opened?

The presents should be opened after food has been enjoyed and games played, if you decide to have them.

Themes

In this day and age, a lot of baby showers have themes. There are advantages to a theme orientated baby shower. It can certainly make the shower easier to organize. You can make up your own them theme or use some already established popular baby showers themes, which include:

Tea party, which can be fun.

Book party, where everyone brings books as gifts for the baby and mother.

Diaper party, where the baby shower centers on gifts that deal with the bare necessities like diapers or baby bottles.

1/12/2005

Coed Baby Shower Invitations and Favors


Coed baby showers are becoming more popular as fathers-to-be are getting
more involved with the pregnancy. Baby showers were once a female only
event, but that just is not the case anymore. Coed showers allow dad to be
in on the fun too. It is just another men are getting involved with the
prenatal part of their baby's life. When it comes to planning a coed baby
shower there are many things that must be considered. Coed baby shower
invitations and favors are perhaps the biggest thing that will reflect the
difference between a female only and coed party.

When it comes to planning a coed party, there are some things that can stay
the same. The decorations and food are generally going to stay the same, as
will the games played. The main changes are in the invitation and favors.
Fun coed baby shower invitations and favors are possible, but there are some
things to keep in mind.

The invitations need to be clearly worded so that guests know the party is
coed. Since most still see a baby shower as a female event it is very
necessary to make sure guys know they are welcome too. Without proper
wording the coed party may turn into all women, plus a dad who feels out of
place. A good example would be to make the verse or wording on the
invitation something that is friendly to both men and women.

Favors for baby showers are often very girly. Candles, soaps and lotions
tend to be the top of favor choices. For a coed party those may not be the
type of favor a man would enjoy. The hostess should take into consideration
what favor items would suit both male and female guests. They can also buy
favors for just women and just men, if that is easier.

These coed baby shower invitations and favors ideas are just a start.
Planning a coed baby shower can be fun. Coed baby shower invitations and
favors are one way to make sure the party is successful. With coed baby
showers becoming more popular there are sure to be coed baby shower
invitations and favors popping up all over the place, so planning a coed
shower will be easy.

1/11/2005

Breast Enhancement Cream Safe Increase Size and Beauty Your Bust


Like a child who has discovered a new toy, this information will open up a whole new world of awe and wonder for you.

Have you ever wondered what exactly is up with Breast Enhancement? This informative article can give you an insight into everything you've ever wanted to know about Breast Enhancement.

Breast enlargement cream is a non-invasive system and physical system of breast enlargement. The ingredients of the cream are parallel in composition and assist the same purpose as that of breast enhancement pills but are found in lesser amounts. Some of the ingredients worn are sabal, damiana, dong quai, blessed thistle, kava, dandelion root, oat bran, and violent yam.

Manufacturers profess that the use of breast enlargement cream can expansion the mass of the breasts by numerous cups and can help women to achieve fuller breasts with firmer tissues. Mothers who have lost their breast profile after pregnancy can also use the cream to give firmness. The cream promotes the expansion of breast tissues by obviously balancing the female hormones. Many of the creams manufactured also act as a supplement to pills and work to enhance or sustain the changes achieved through the pills. The cream also has a makeup affect as its application boost the entirety appearance of the breasts and makes them firmer and smoother.

During the second part, we must switch to a more serious side to fully communicate the subject matter in a way for all to understand.

You can see that there's useful value in erudition more about Breast Enhancement. Can you think of habits to relate what's been covered so far?

The cream is to be practical twice a day consistently for a interval of 3 to 6 months to achieve a multiple-cup increase. The fallout may fluctuate from one individual to another, and women with lesser breasts may take more time to attain a sizeable increase. The manufacturers profess that some fallout can be evident within the first 4 weeks of its use.

It is argued that breast enlargement cream is not so helpful when worn in isolation. Its effectiveness can be substantial if it is worn in combination with breast enlargement pills and expected breast enhancing exercises. The chance of with breast enlargement cream is unknown. However some individuals may happen allergic reactions to the ingredients used.

Various manufacturers use different ingredients in the formulation of the cream, so it is important to invoice out the produce with the doctors or vigor professionals to understand the help of each ingredients and the chance inherent in with such a product. Individuals who are allergic to herbal compounds must not use the product.

Take time to judge the points presented above. What you learn may help you overcome your hesitation to take action.

From beginning to end, this article has helped you to learn more about this topic than you probably thought you would ever know.

1/10/2005

Breast Enhancement Surgeries, Which One Is Suitable For You?


Before deciding to undergo any breast surgery, it is important to have a clear knowledge on the different types of breast enhancement surgeries available.

As recommended by Yvonne Lee in her book "To All Women Who Want To Enhance Their Breasts Naturally, But Don't Know How To Start", it is best to seek several consultations with different surgeons as different surgeons might be using different techniques, have different opinions, and will have different aesthetic preferences.

One type of breast enhancement surgery is "Benelli Mastopexy (Peri-Areola breast lift)". Peri-Areola breast lift is one of the several techniques for breast lift whereby the scars are designed around the areola. It is useful for women with a projecting nipple/areola complex (sometimes called torpedo or missile shaped breasts), and can also be used to reduce the size of the areola at the same time.

To be suitable for Benelli Mastopexy, the patient must be in good health, and not have any active diseases or pre-existing medical conditions. Due to the natural stretching and sagging of the breast skin after pregnancy, it is highly recommend that the patient waits until she no longer wants to have any additional children before having the surgery.

Another type of breast enhancement surgery is Breast augmentation. It is technically known as augmentation mammoplasty, it is a surgical procedure to enhance the size and shape of a women's breast for several reasons. The reasons could be to enhance the body contour of a women who feels that her breast size is too small; to correct a reduction in breast volume after pregnancy; to balance a difference in breast size; or even as a reconstructive technique following breast surgery.

Each patient should understand that in every surgery, pain and discomfort would be included. As every individual has different body constitutes, they will need to spent different amount of time on their recovery process, this would results in a loss of time from work and other activities. As all surgical procedures produce scars, it is important to be very sure of what your decision is before proceeding, as the scar is permanent.

Breast Lift (Mastopexy) is another breast surgery available. Breast lift surgery is performed to remove the excess skin of sagging breasts without greatly reducing the size of the breast. It is usually done as a cosmetic procedure whereby the breast is given a more youthful, and perky appearance.

Breast lift is suitable for women who are happy with the size of their breasts but are dissatisfied with the sagging and loss of firmness that occurs with age. Breast lift surgery can be performed in healthy women of any age. As some older women have a higher possibility of sagging breasts, it is more common for them to choose breast lift surgery.

For those women that intend to enlarge their breasts using implants, they can also consider breast lift to be performed in conjunction as it has a lifting effect for the enlarged breasts. A woman that wishes to raise the position of downward facing nipples or reduce the size of large areola can consider Mastopexy too. This surgical procedure is also a choice for those who want to balance asymmetry of breasts or to match a healthy breast to one that has been operated on for breast cancer.

Breast reduction is another surgery performed by cosmestic surgeons. There are several reasons as to why some women choose to undergo breast reduction surgery in some part of their life. They could face the pains of being tortured by neck, and back pain due to the large sagging breasts. Their shoulder could also be sore due to the bra strap cutting into them. To some, it may even be difficult for them to exercise, play sports, and fit into clothing. Therefore, breast reduction surgery is performed to produce smaller, lighter, and firmer breasts that are more proportionate to the body. These results could help to heal the patient's physical or emotional pains.

If the patient is a smoker, he/she will be required to stop smoking for at least a week before and after the surgery. For those who are overweight, they will most likely be asked to loss the extra pounds before the surgery. Women intending to breastfeed some point in time are not recommended to undergo this surgery. Women with elastic skin would have a better chance for the breasts to transform back to its original tightness.

It is very important for you to consider the risk and complications of breast surgery. A number of online web site functions commercially, this make it possible for them not to disclose all information about the complications and risks of breast surgery. It is important to collate information from different sources as it could aid in your final decision-making.

The above information is found in Ms Yvonne Lee, internationally acclaimed book "To All Women Who Want To Enhance Their Breasts Naturally, But Don't Know How To Start". It describes and details the most important breast enhancement techniques from every corner of the world. Author Yvonne Lee, provides an unbiased pro-and-con analysis of each technique, in addition to practical information such as how and where to get it, cost, and potential impact on insurance coverage. The ebook version of the book is now available at: http://www.breastenhancementbook.com

1/09/2005

Breast Enlargement Procedures Breast Enlargement Hypnosis


Before we begin, lets discuss what we hope you will learn through this article. Then we can begin to piece it together for you.

Many women are sorrowful with their bodies after giving birth. We've all seen photos of celebrities who snapped back after childbirth to their original push thin shape, seemingly within weeks. However, it's sensible to keep in heed that, for these women, their bodies are their bread and butter. For the mode lady who machinery in an office, prepare or firm, or who stays home with her children, snapping back after childbirth isn't such a priority.

However, changes to her body can still leave a lady such as this feeling depressed. After giving birth, a lady may have weight she just can't appear to lose. She may have stretch marks. She might have baggy or scarred breasts. The same breasts that became so large, detailed and scenic during pregnancy are now sagging, small and misshapen. For women who breast feed, the fallout can be even more devastating.

If you are sorrowful with your breasts, you have many options available to you. The most obvious is surgery, but I would advise against it. Surgery is posh and risky. Its fallout are regularly unnatural looking. Many women have to tolerate multiple surgeries due to leaking or ruptured implants. While the surgery is improving all the time, I would still ponder it only after exhausting your other avenues.

For the rest of this article, we will discuss the meaning behind what we have learned about this subject so far.

These avenues contain breast pills and creams. Pills can be surprisingly effective. Many women have gone up a cup mass or two by winning these pills, which consist of estrogen derived from plants. Other women use pumps, although these are normally considered to be a devastate of time and money. Finally, some women attack to hypnosis to enlarge their breasts. although the assert seems remarkable, prominent hypnotist David Landau offers audio tapes designed to mount the breast mass through hypnosis.

Share the information that you have learned with your friends and family. They will be impressed by your knowledge and happy to learn something new.

1/08/2005

Exercises For Busy Moms: 4 Quick, But Effective Exercises To Keep Busy Moms Strong


We all know how difficult it is to stay in shape and find time to exercise - but most especially for women with babies or small kids. There's the sleep-deprivation factor, no time and priority changes. So what are the fitness options for busy Moms?

The fact is, the more you can take of yourself and the better you feel, the stronger you will be physically and emotionally to take on the day with the "little ones" and all of life's challenges.

Below are some quick, but effective, exercises - specifically designed for the busy Mom - for the back and shoulders to keep you strong and prevent future injuries that may occur with poor lifting biomechanics and poor posture. The heavy weight of not just the baby, but also all the fun gadgets you're expected to lug around. It's no surprise that our bodies need a little help to get through the day.

Rotator Cuff Strengthener

For this workout you will need a light theraband. The beauty about this piece of equipment is that it's small enough to carry in your bag or your stroller. Now you have no excuses - you can do these exercises on the go, at the park or when you have a few moments to spare.

You can do this exercise either seated or standing; hold the elbows close to the waist with palms facing the sky holding the theraband. Pulling the hands away from each other externally rotating the shoulders

Reps:
3 sets of 10-15 reps

Muscle focus:

Rotator cuff muscles are the small muscles that stabilize the shoulder joint. If these get weak from over use you could end up with bicep tendonitis or other potential injuries. This is very common with Moms as everything is usually done with one hand while holding the "little one" in the other.

Tricep push-up extension

This is the one time in your life you are going to need arm strength, the biceps are going to get over worked from the motion of picking up the baby so it's important to balance these out and keep the triceps strong as not to put unwanted strain on them.

Hands are directly under your shoulders and knees are on the ground in a modified push-up. The pelvis is slightly pressed forward creating work in the abdominals that stabilize the spine. Place the theraband under the right hand on the floor and extend opposite arm in a tricep extension. Whilst extending the working arm be careful to keep the wrist in line with the hand not to create any unwanted tension/strain.

Reps:
3 sets of 10-15 reps on each side

Muscle Focus:
� Drawing your shoulder blades down activating your upper back muscles, engaging abs at all times. Keeping your abs strong and being aware of contracting them is very important as they play an important role in stabilizing and protecting the back.

� Translating this in to functional activities such as picking the baby up out of the crib will really save your back.

Spine extension with pulses

Over time in pregnancy our posture completely changes due to the increased weight of the baby bringing our body forward and causing the spine to round forward with the shoulders. This causes the back muscles to become very stretched out and weak.

Seated up right with legs in front of body shoulder width apart, hands over your head. Hinge forward from the hips leading with the sternum, biceps are by your ears. Hold this position and slightly pulse the arms behind the body mobilizing the shoulders and working the upper back. Return back to an upright position to repeat the movement again.

Reps:
3 sets of 10 Pulses

Muscle Focus:

Upper back and hamstring flexibility. This exercise will strengthen the mid upper back and open up the tight thoracic area of the spine, correcting bad habits that the body formed through pregnancy.


Butterfly ab curls

Keeping you abs strong is essential for keeping your whole body strong and restoring poor posture left over from pregnancy.

Lying on the floor with heals of feet together and knees bent to the side in a frog like position. Arms are straight over you head, circle arms around and lift the head neck shoulders off the floor exhaling pulling in the abs hold for 5 seconds and return back to starting position.

Reps:
3 sets of 10 reps

Muscle Focus:

As you exhale and bring the head neck and shoulders off the floor think of pulling your abdominals in up and back to the spine. Moms, this is a time you can practice doing your kegal on the contraction working the pelvic floor.

1/07/2005

Different people with different appendicitis symptoms


There are cases when people with certain medical conditions like pregnant women, children and the elderly, which have appendicitis, may not have all the common appendicitis symptoms.Also the other medical conditions can cause the symptoms of appendicitis.From this point of view the people which have possible appendicitis symptoms should consult immediately the doctor, because only he can diagnose and treat the problem.

The most common symptom which appear early is a pain in the abdomen. This pain can appear at first around the belly button and then move toward the lower right area of the abdomen. There are other common appendicitis symptoms like: pain that intensifies when moving, taking deep breaths, coughing or sneezing, loss of appetite, nausea, vomiting, constipation or diarrhea, inability to pass gas, low fever that begins after other symptoms, abdominal swelling and feeling that a bowel movement will relieve the discomfort.

The common appendicitis symptoms appear differently at the women which develop appendicitis during pregnancy.So these women who have pain on the right side of abdomen and those who are in the third trimester must consult quickly the doctor. To diagnose appendicitis at infants and young children is more difficult because they cannot communicate their symptoms with their parents or doctors. Because the children cannot explain very well the symptoms, doctors must rely on a physical exam and less specific symptoms, like vomiting and fatigue.

There are cases when children with appendicitis may have constipation or small stools that contain mucus while toddlers with appendicitis may have trouble eating and may seem unusually sleepy. If the parents believe that their children have appendicitis should contact a doctor immediately. It happens that the elderly to have less fever and less severe abdominal pain than other patients with appendicitis. Although the older adults can have symptoms appendicitis without knowing that their appendix is close to rupturing.

The appendicitis symptoms like a slight fever and abdominal pain on the right side of the abdomen can be met to the older patients. They must see a doctor. Patients with certain medical conditions like: organ transplants, HIV or AIDS, diabetes, obesity, cancer and using immunosuppressive therapy such as steroids may not have the common appendicitis symptoms.

Anyone who have pains on the right side of their abdomen which resemble with the appendicitis symptoms must consult the doctor quickly to avoid other problems.

1/05/2005

Get Ready To Hear All Kinds Of Parenting Advice


Get Ready To Hear All Kinds Of Parenting Advice

If you are starting your journey into parenthood, there will be ample free advice given to you. This is because people love sharing their stories of past experiences in child rearing. Advice is free simply because everyone loves giving it out and word of mouth is the best method of communication. You may not agree with all the advice you here but be wise, listen and learn.

How To Digest All Of This Free Parenting Advice You Get?

It has been proven through testing and observation of top notch scientists that SIDS (Sudden Infant Death Syndrome) can be avoided by making your child sleep on their back, but you've also heard from other important people in your life, such as your mother or best friend, that having the baby sleep on it's side or stomach is best for the child. Parenting advice has evolved through the times; things that were good for babies back when your mom was raising you are not so good nowadays. Doctors will follow the scientists investigations and recommend the baby sleeps on their back, and you should listen to them.

Only you know what's for your baby, you are the one who cares for him/her all day long, who knows his/her likes and dislikes. Many people are against bottle feedings, many support breast feeding but if you are a working mother or the baby is not getting enough milk from you, then you know the bottle is the best option for your child. Ignore everyone else and go with you instincts.

If you even so much as join a website proclaiming you are having a child, you will be bombarded with emails and spam mail that you did not want in the first place. Another way to get a ton of parenting advice is through parenting magazines, and when you sign up for those you will get a lot of mail and pamphlets telling you what's best for your baby. If it is your first child then expect a lot more because the advertising sharks will be after you, you will just become their prey.

After digesting all that parenting advice you feel overwhelmed and do not know which advice to take to heart from all that reading material, but remember the best advice comes from those with life experience, paediatricians and last but not least you teachers you end up with during your pregnancy, such as your Lamaze teacher. Only you can create a unique parenting plan for your child. So make whatever changes you need to all the advice you here, and do what is best for your child.

Thousands of babies develop to be vigorous folks in spite of whether their diapers where disposed with diaper genies or that nightlight will last forever. To deal with that advertisement advice that sell you these ridiculous products, throw them away and laugh, they just want to sell, they do not care about what is best for your kids or yourself for that matter.

1/04/2005

Pregnancy Week by Week Guide


Pregnancy is a scary, yet miraculous part of life. Part of the nervousness and anticipation that surrounds pregnancy is a lack of knowledge about what happens to your body during the nine months required to create a new life. Below is a pregnancy week by week list of the changes that will take place while you are pregnant. Remember that every woman is different and the rate at which a fetus develops is varied.

Pregnancy Week By Week - One Through Four:

Week one starts with the date of your last menstrual period. During week four, fertilization of the eggs occurs and the process of creating a new life begins.

Pregnancy Week By Week - Five Through Eight:

You have missed a period and you may begin to suspect that you are pregnant. At this stage, a pregnancy test will be accurate for most women. During the sixth week your baby's heart starts to beat. Week seven may be the beginning of morning sickness, and by week eight the rapidly developing fetus has small arms and legs.

Pregnancy Week By Week - Nine Through Twelve:

During this stage of pregnancy, your body continues to grow and adjust to accommodate the growing fetus. Your baby should start to move inside your body although you may not notice at this point. By week twelve, morning sickness should begin to subside.

Pregnancy Week By Week - Week By Week Thirteen Through Sixteen:

It is possible to determine the baby's gender by week thirteen, but with only a moderate degree of accuracy. Week fourteen should be the week in which you can hear the baby's heartbeat during your visit to your obstetrician. You will most likely be able to feel your baby move during this period as the baby's bones begin to harden.

Pregnancy Week By Week - Seventeen Through Twenty:

The best time to learn about pregnancy week by week is before you're in the thick of things. Wise readers will keep reading to earn some valuable pregnancy week by week experience while it's still free.

By this time your baby's internal organs are starting to develop rapidly and the fetus is covered in fine hair called lanugo. An ultrasound performed during this time should accurately determine your baby's gender.

Pregnancy Week By Week - Twenty One Through Twenty Four:

At this stage of pregnancy, your baby will begin practicing breathing in order to be ready for this job when he or she is born. You may feel slight contractions during this time as your uterus begins preparing for the task at hand. By week twenty four, your baby begins to develop fat deposits in order to regulate body temperature after birth.

Pregnancy Week By Week - Twenty Four Through Twenty Eight:

Your uterus will begin to get crowded at this stage of pregnancy and your baby's movements will slow down. Your baby can now sense light and darkness and will be able to hear sounds from the outside world. The sounds your baby hears will resemble the sounds you would hear while swimming under water.

Pregnancy Week By Week - Twenty Nine Through Thirty Two:

Your baby's head is growing rapidly in proportion to the rest of its body. The brain and the eyes are almost fully developed during this stage of your pregnancy. By week thirty two, the only organs not almost fully developed are the lungs

Pregnancy Week By Week -Thirty Three Through Thirty Six:

During week thirty three, your baby can close and open it's eyes and the fingernails grow to the end of the fingers. It is possible that your baby's nails will need to be cut soon after birth. By week thirty six, the baby could weigh up to four pounds and be up to sixteen inches long.

Pregnancy Week By Week - Thirty Seven Through Forty:

Your baby's major organs have been fully developed for a while now and the lungs continue to develop in preparation for birth. The baby could be born at any time now. The actual delivery date for your baby could be as much as two weeks before or after the expected due date. The time has come to prepare for the imminent arrival - good luck!

There's a lot to understand about pregnancy week by week. We were able to provide you with some of the facts above, but there is still plenty more to write about in subsequent articles.

1/03/2005

How to treat heartburn during pregnancy.


As you continue to read this article, pay special attention to how parts 1 and 2 relate to one another.

There are many troubles a lady has to go through when pregnant. She might get high blood anxiety, edema, sickness and sickness, weakness, and extreme heartburn. For each of these troubles there are remedies; however the surgeon regularly advises to keep medicines to the smallest lest it will assume the baby in one way or other. The mothers-to-be also somewhat to continue the orexchanges as greatly as promising, somewhat then danger spoiling the baby.

Can Heartburn During Pregnancy Be Controlled?

During pregnancy, a great exchange of changes takes place in the body due to circulate of very hormones triggered. These hormones instigate the LES (drop gullet sphincter) to get untied and as a product of that, it can swing the other way, permiting acid and undigested food gust back into the alimentary conditionage.

The subject rest whether it is promising to rein and/or rule the heartburn during pregnancy lacking creating any class of danger to the baby. It seems that the answer is �yes'. Some of the remedies are regular precautions that you can request lacking greatly strength:

1. connect the foods that intensify heartburn during pregnancy and entirely eliminate those foods from your diet during the pregnancy cycle. commonly citrus fruits, chocolate and aerated drinks are among the foods which produce the most spoil.

2. sidestep all beverages/ drinks that may hold caffeine. These enter auburn, tea (with and lacking milk) as these have been practical to instigate heartburn during pregnancy.

3. Do away with alcohol for the same reasons as above. Alcohol too permits the LES to swing arrived therefore producting in acute heartburn.

4. Eat small meals, at small intervals of time. Do not try to eat large meals as these will product in heartburn and even sickness.

5. Let at slightest two hours condition between your meal and retiring for bed. Sleeping on stomach bursting slows down the digestion logic, and therefore increases the acidity of the stomach which in circle products in heartburn during pregnancy.

The above are only five regular remedies that will permit you frankness from heartburn. Other remedies would be yoga, prescription medicines form your surgeon and an exclusively fat unbound diet (if promising). It rest to see how greatly of these remedies are practical for you and how many work to your satisfaction. The only way to find out is to try them out one by one and see for manually.

The next time you have questions regarding this subject, you can refer back to this article as a handy guide.

1/02/2005

Fertility and Tanning Beds


Over the decades since the invention of tanning beds, different urban legends have popped up; including lowered fertility by using a tanning bed. Fortunately, there have been no conclusive studies that indicate that tanning beds lower fertility or sperm count. However, this does not mean tanning does not come with certain concerns for individuals in their childbearing years, particularly for women who may be pregnant.

The primary concerns for pregnant women do not include the fable that ultraviolet (UV) rays, which can cause skin cancer and premature aging, will directly harm the unborn fetus. They must be concerned with the following issues instead:

1 - Overheating may occur under the hot tanning lights and cause spinal malformations in the unborn child.

2 - Too much exposure to the same UV rays that tan your skin can cause a folic acid deficiency, which can create spina bifida in the unborn child.

3 - Laying flat on your back during the last trimester can put a lot of pressure on the lower back and reduce the blood flow to both your heart and to the growing fetus.

This doesn't mean pregnant women must avoid tanning beds, but it does mean they need to take precautions, such as:

1 - Particularly during the last trimester, use a vertical tanning bed or booth. Another option is to use tanning bed pillows to provide relief to the strained lower back.

2 - Avoid using tanning beds too long or too often. Ten to fifteen minutes two to three times a week is more reasonable for a pregnant woman.

3 - Stay hydrated and use a tanning bed lotion that adds moisture back into to the skin.

While loss of fertility and tanning beds may be unrelated, overuse of tanning beds and an unhealthy pregnancy is, so if you think you may be pregnant, tan wisely. There is no reason to avoid tanning beds completely, since beds are no more dangerous to use than spending a day at the beach. However, it is important to take proper precautions again overexposure to the potentially harmful effects of UV rays.

1/01/2005

The Pros and Cons of In-Vitro Fertilization


What is In-Vitro Fertilization?

In-vitro fertilization is a procedure that allows couples who cannot conceive normally to have a child. The woman's egg and man's sperm are taken out of the body and fertilized in a laboratory, then put back into a woman who can carry the pregnancy to term.

Many moral and ethical concerns have been raised because of in-vitro fertilization. Those against the procedure say it is too much like playing God. Many women, however, have successfully delivered healthy babies as a result of in-vitro fertilization. Only you can decide if this procedure is the right one for you.

What are the Chances of Success with In-Vitro Fertilization?

"The chance of successful pregnancy with in vitro fertilization is directly related to the age of the woman who provides the egg. Most in vitro fertilization programs divide up their success rates according to age. For example, clinics will report pregnancy rates for women under and over the age of 35 years. There is certainly deterioration in the quality of eggs from the mid-thirties onwards. Some clinics divide up success rates further, and specifically report pregnancy rates for women between the ages of 35 and 37, 38 and 39, 39 to 42, and then over the age of 42.:
- Victoriafertility web site, August 2006

In-vitro has enjoyed a good success rate. Some in-vitro procedures have been too effective, with women giving birth to twins, triplets, or even more babies at once. It's a good idea to try the process with three or fewer eggs, on the chance that all the eggs will become successfully fertilized and produce children. In-vitro is a viable option for women who cannot naturally conceive.

What are the Dangers of In-Vitro Fertilization?

"One of the commonest serious side effects from using fertility drugs is a condition known as ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome (OHSS). Ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome becomes a risk in women who develop more than 20 follicles in response to the fertility drugs. In these circumstances the blood estrogen levels are often very high, and this combination causes OHSS."
- Victoriafertility web site, August 2006

The most common danger of in-vitro is that it will not work. It is very disappointing and depressing for a couple who has tried many methods, only to fail again at in-vitro. There is nothing to suggest that in-vitro fertilization will make natural conception easier or harder for the woman in the future. Medically, the procedure is fairly safe. There is some pain associated with the process of removing the woman's eggs, however, and there is a surgical procedure involved.

If you are considering in-vitro fertilization, it's best to discuss your options with your doctor. In-vitro can be a rather invasive procedure. You'll want to know what your chances are of having a successful pregnancy using this method before you decide to go ahead with in-vitro.

The Pros and Cons of In-Vitro Fertilization

Each woman has to make the decision regarding in-vitro for herself, with the support of her spouse. Many couples face reproductive challenges, and it's a very common problem that is nothing to be ashamed of. Learn all about your own chances of success with in-vitro before you decide to go through with the procedure, which can be very costly and very invasive to a woman's body. How much you want to conceive will determine whether or not in-vitro fertilization is right for you.