My wife is three months pregnant. Is it okay for us to have sex? I feel embarrassed to ask our family doctor. We are avoiding sexual contact; but in do feel the urge sex. What do we do?
This is one of the commonest questions posed by young parents expecting their first child. Their lack of knowledge regarding the correct method, timing, and frequency cause varied misconceptions and at times, a total withdrawal from sex. This often backfires as the women, owing to her psychological state and emotional needs, fails to understand the behavioral changes in her partner. Here’s what to expect.
EMOTIONS ON HIGH
During pregnancy, a woman’s mental make-up undergoes dramatic change. She becomes emotional and sometimes oversensitive. The way her needs are acknowledged (or dismissed) affects her mental state and thereby the fetus as well. If she feels that her husband is not adequately, responsive she may get irritable, insomnia and suffers from loss appetite or over-stimulated hunger.
Most men are unaware that their behaviour often causes these emotional upheavals. Many take the easy way out and take their wife to the doctor, without realizing that she simply needs her husband her moods, feeling and anxieties.
DISCREPANCY IN SEX DRIVES
The changes taking place in the mother-to-be are part of her bio-logical make-up. Hormonal and chemical changes prepare her for conception, pregnancy and child-bearing. The awareness that she is pregnant creates new aspirations and sexual relations go down the priority ladder. There is, however, no such biological change in the man. He needs to make himself aware of the physical and emotional demands fatherhood, but continues to feel the urge for intercourse. In such a situation, it is essential that he does not force this one-sided need on his pregnant wife.
FOR INTERCOURSE
Though a woman may not have strong sexual urges, she does need warm and gentle physical contact and caressing. In the process, if she is aroused and willing, they can have intercourse too. However….
• Avoid the missionary (man-superior) position. Woman on top position is advisable, or they both could be in a sitting position, so could be in a pressure on her abdomen and that movement is gentle.
• Spoon position is another one. The position is when the couple life on their sides, their legs bent upwards, both facing in the same direction, with the man behind the women. It is like two spoons, one nesting inside the other. This is a very ‘gentle’ position as neither partner is putting any weight on the other, and it is particularly good for making love to a pregnant women.
WATCH OUT FOR
• If during missionary position, the man is one the top, his weight bears down on the woman, and without his realising, the movements can become rough. This, in turn, can disturb the fetus.
• Intercourse should be avoided from the sixth to the twelfth week of the pregnancy as it can cause miscarriage. Sexual abstinence is recommended during the last two months of pregnancy too. At this time, if one indulges in sexual intercourse amniotic fluid leaking out.
• During the fourth to seventh month of pregnancy, intercourse is allowed unless you are otherwise advices for medical reasons.
• Sexual acts such as oral and anal sex should be strictly avoided.
WORD OF CAUTION
During pregnancy, a woman does not retain her shapely figure. It is possible that the man may be sexually drawn to other tempted to indulge in extra-marital affairs during this time. A Women’s needs during pregnancy undergo a major transition It’s certainly not right, if the husband, instead of understanding this change, enters a relationship outside marriage.
This can be dealt with if the man is equally involved with the pregnancy. In fact, the couple can create deeper bonds during this period. Being present during sonographies, choosing the baby’s name, his/her new clothes, etc can help men grow in their new role.
Pregnant with myths!
Pregnancy is a time pampering, dreaming and er..myths! Almost every culture has its own myths related to pregnancy and what pregnant women should or should not do. Here, we bust some.
Pregnant women crave pickles and ice cream
• False. Not all women crave pickles and ice cream, but food cravings such as these are based infact. In general, food cravings can be very helpful in telling you what your body needs.
Women who crave pickles are really craving salt and may be mineral deficient, and specifically sodium deficient. Additional minerals are particularly important in pregnancy when women’s bodies increase blood volume by up to 20 percent, so the existing minerals are diluted.
Many women crave junk foods such as ice cream during pregnancy because junk food is associated with comfort. Sugars found I sweet foods, as well as in breads, pasta and rice cause the body to produce serotonin, which makes women feel good.
Pregnant women who carry low will give birth to a boy and those who have pregnancy acne will give birth to a girl.
• False. How a woman carries depends on her body type and whether she has been pregnant before, but does not reflect gender. Pregnancy acne is unrelated to gender.
Women tend to carry lower or higher depending on their body type. Taller, thinner women appear to carry higher. Shorter and fuller women appear to carry lower. Neither has any correlation to gender. Also, in a second pregnancy, since abdominal muscles may be looser, the pregnancy may appear to be lower.
Pregnancy acne has nothing to do with gender; it is result of natural hormonal changes.
Pregnant women must eat for two; they must gain 25 pounds.
• False. Thirty years ago, the average size of babies was 6 pounds. Today the average size is 8 pounds. There are many reasons for this, but one reason is over-eating, particularly unfavourable carbohydrates(bratds, pastas, rice), and not getting enough vegetables, protein and healthy fats.
As long a s a pregnant women eats properly-and as long as her doctor is not concerned-there is not set formula for how much she must gain. Genearally, in the last trimester, the baby gains half a pound a week. So, as a general rule, if, during this time, the pregnant, women is not gaining a bit more than that, her doctor may be concerned and her dieat should be reevaluated.
Pregnant women shouldn’t take baths.
• False. Pregnant women should’t take hot baths. Women are told not to take baths because hot water—over 98 degrees-is unfavorable to the pregnancy. Taking a warm bath with someone to help you get in and out of the bath safely can help decrease uncomfortable welling in arms and legs, increase the amniotic fluid and help the mother relax and alleviate anxiety about the health of her baby. This is also why swimming is such a great pregnancy exercise.
Pregnant women shouldn’t eat fish.
• False. Although women are told not to eat fish due to eat fish due to mercury, levels and fears of food poisoning, (a) women can choose fresh fish with low mercury levels and(b) fish oil has many benefits to the baby after all, women in Japan don’t stop eating sushi!
Mercury and food poisoning are significant concerns. Women are individuals and every pregnancy is unique. Small white fish have lower mercury levels because they have been living in the ocean for a shorter period of time. Get fresh fish and smell it. A woman’s sense of smell is heightened during pregnancy for a reason-the pregnant women’s body is helping her determine what is healthy for her baby.
Moreover, fish oil contains helpful Omega 3 fats, which actually enhance the developing of the baby’s brain, improve the baby’s IO, make the baby a better sleeper after birth, prevent premature contractions and premature labour, prevent high blood pressure during pregnancy, and act as an anti-inflammatory that prevalent infection, if a pregnant women is uncomfortable eating fish she can visit her local health food store for fish oil supplements.
Pregnant women shouldn’t change cat litter.
• True. Due to a virus in cat feces called Toxoplasmosis. This virus can be very harmful to the pregnancy. But recognize that contact with kitty litter is not limited to changing the cat litter box. Since a cat walks on its litter, the virus can be tracked any where a cat walks, including its paws. Due to this, all contact with the cat must be limited and the house must be kept extra clean. Also, because much of our producer is grown outdoors where cays and other animals come in cot act with it-even if it’s organic-recognize that this virus may be present on fruits and vegetables.
Pregnant women shouldn’t dye hair.
• False. Sort of. Pregnant women should avoid anything chemicalized-from food to hair dye. Just like with the foods they eat, pregnant women should try to expose their bodies to as few artificial products as possible. Hair dyes are no exception.
Pregnant women should not carry heavy items.
• True. Nothing more than 25 pounds. The pregnant body is already burdened by additional weight, which throws of a woman’s s balance and makes her more l9okely to fall. This and other things that cause a dismissed sense of balance in pregnant woman should in pregnant women should be avoided, as a fall after the first trimester may be devastating to the pregnancy-always requiring immediate medical attention.
All pregnant women have morning sickness.
• False. Women and their pregnancy, hormone levels are individual. The feeling of morning sickness is often caused by a rise in the female hormone estrogen during pregnancy.
All pregnant women have morning sickness.
• False. Women and their pregnancy hormone levels are individual. The feeling of morning sickness is often caused by a rise in the female hormone estrogen during pregnancy.
If the pregnant woman’s body already produced a high level of estrogen prior to her pregnancy, additional estrogen may cause morning sickness in the first trimester-or not. It really depends on the individual.
Pregnant women shouldn’t drink alcohol.
• True. Alcohol is ‘fetotoxic, ‘ which means it is poisonous to the growing baby, just one drink a day can create a noticeable problem in the pregnancy. If someone told you that one pill of a certain drug baby, would you take half that pill or even one quarter?
WOMEN’S HEALTH
We all know that women often neglect their own health whilst taking care of the ones around them. The fast paced urban lifestyle, coupled with a poor diet, lack of exercise and rest, is a recipe for disaster. Here disease that women over 35 year so f age need to watch out for.
FIBROIDS
An increasing number of women today are facing the problem of fibroids, Affecting women over the age of 35, fibroids are the most common form of non-cancerous tumours found in a woman’s reproductive system. They are essentially benign but could prove to be dangerous if unheeded. However early diagnosis followed by treatment may reduce the chances of further risk.
Symptoms
Some women with fibroids may have no symptoms at all while others may experience.
• Increase in menstrual bleeding, irregular vaginal bleeding, irregular vaginal bleeding.
• Bleeding with blood clots.
• Pressure on the bladder causing more frequent urination.
• Abdominal pain and discomfort.
• Infertility
Treatment
A sonographic test has to be conducted in order to ascertain the growth of fibroids.
Surgical procedures include;
+ Myomectomy: removal of the fibroids that are causing symptoms.
+Hysterectomy: Involves a complete removal of the uterus. This can be done laparoscopically, by making several small incisions in the abdomen.
Nonsurgical procedures include:
+ MRI focus: which helps in dissolving the lump or tumour.
MENSTRUAL DISORDERS
Menstrual disorders may intensify after women cross the age of 35 due to hormonal changes, intake of emergency contraceptive pills, stress, thyroid, pregnancy or abortion.
Symptoms• Painful cramps during menstruation
• Excessive bleeding.
• Period irregularity.
• Scanty bleeding.
• Postmenopausal bleeding could be a sign of cancer.
CANCER
Cervical cancer is the most common form of cancer affecting women. India has the highest number of women suffering from this disease, in which the cells on the surface of the cervix grow uncontrollably, leading to cancer. The human papilloma virus (HPV), which is the main cause of cervical cancer, is transmitted during unprotected intercourse.
Treatment
A major breakthrough has been the HPV vaccine. It is usually given at after the age of 12.
Breast cancer is the prevalent form of cancer among women and affects approximately one million women worldwide. Being a genetic disease, the chances of acquiring it are higher if there is a family history of breast cancer. The risk factor is highest among women who have their first child after the age of 35 and these women have an even higher risk than women who have no children,.
Symptoms
• A lump in the breast or an irregularity in the breast tissue.
• Breast cancer is now commonly diagnosed by breast screening in women who he to symptoms.
Treatment
+Hormonal Therapy.
+Chemotherapy.
A hormone test or sonography may help to rule out the possibility of cancer.
DIABETES
Diabetes among women has been on the rise. The chances of getting type-2 diabetes increases after the age of 45. It may be due to genetic reasons or lifestyle related problems. Asia and specifically India has the largest population of diabetic patients. A sedentary lifestyle, obesity, an unhealthy diet, lack of exercise and a family history of diabetes may increase the likelihood of diabetes.
Symptoms
The typical symptoms of diabetes include:
• Polyuria or severe urination.
• Persistent fatigue.
• Many infections associated with diabetes might be dangerous as they impair the body’s ability t fend off disease.
Treatment
+Oral or insulin test
+
Exercise: Regular exercise, in any form, can help reduce the risk of developing diabetes.
+
Diet: A nutritious diet can go a long way in controlling blood sugar and preventing complications.
Delayed pregnancy is leading to an increase in uterine tumours. As many as 25 million Indian’s have them, leading to problems with pregnancy and infertility.
More aware now, women check for fibroids before conceiving
Like most women, Surekha Sinh went through the usual nervousness and excitement when she found out she was pregnant. But as the pregnancy progressed, she got scared---there were complications she didn’t quite understand. After she lost her premature baby her gynaecologist diagnosed fibroids—non-cancerous tumours in her uterus.
After a myomectomy—surgical removal of fibroids—and several months of hormone therapy, Surekha conceived again. But post-delivery, she would haemorrhage for most of the month. The diagnosis; Fibroids, again. What followed, along with nursing the baby, were month’s o bleeding, treatment, medication and another myomectomy.
Yet, the nightmare didn’t end there, she says, after her third child, the fibroids had returned. This time, they were cancerous and had affected her ovaries. Her gynaecologist advised a hysterectomy---removal of the uterus. So, at 28,Surekha had the life-changing operation. “I was advised hormone replacement therapy for 10 years. Menopause hit earlier than usual,” she says.
Nearly 25 million Indian women are currently affected by uterine fibroids, according to a study released this year. The 16year-long country-wide research conducted by Mumbai- based fertility specialist DR Prakash Trivedi is being circulated to gynaecologists by the Federation of Obstetrics and Gynaecology Society of India (FOGSI). They hope increasing awareness among patients as well as healthcare providers will prompt more women to go for regular checks. This will help doctors diagnose the problem and suggest treatment before it is too late.
Besides the discomfort and pain associated with it, having a fibroid can hamper pregnancy and child birth. The tumour in the uterus cannot be treated with drugs and more often than not, the fibroid needs to be surgically removed. Many times, women suffering from fibroids don’t realise that the tumour was responsible for a failed pregnancy.
What causes fibroids is as yet not fully known. Doctors say it is genetic: The study found a 30 percent chance of women developing fibroids if anyone in the family had them. “Also, women who eat more red meat, those who are overweight, and those who have hypertension have a higher chance of developing fibroids, ’says Dr. Trivedi, who also runs the Aakar IVF centre in Mumbai.
With more women delaying marriage and pregnancy in India, fibroids are becoming commonplace now, say doctors. “Women who put off pregnancy have a greater chance of developing fibroids,” says Dr. Ashwini Bhaleroa Gandhi, gynaecologist at the PD Hinduja Hospital “This is because of the hormone oestrogen. Which plays a role in developing fibroids.” Oral contraceptives, say doctors, reduce the chances of fibroids by regulating levels of oestrogen in the body “Research has shown that fibroids are non—cancerous and can never turn Malignant. Malignant tumours are not fibroids, they are known as fibro carcoma,” explains Dr. Trivedi.
Not all fibroids cause as much trouble as Suarkha’s did. Like Chhaya Joshi found. Four years back she had one incidence of severe pain which promoted the 49-year-old lab technician to get it checked. Sure enough, her sonogram showed fibroids. “When I heard the word tumour, I was out of my mind with worry, but my doctor told me that the fibroid was situated just above the uterus and would cause no problems.” She says.
Only marginally relived, Chhaya expected to have to come back to the clinic for surgery. “But so far, except a little bladder pressure and an occasional urgency in relieving myself, I have felt no pain or abnormal bleeding ever,” she says. Her fibroid, which was 5cm large in2003, is 8.7cm today. This, say doctors, is normal. A fibroid grows about half a centimeter in one year.
A fibroid only needs to be removed if it causes severe complications like excessive pain or heavy bleeding. “This is determined by where the fibroid is situated in the uterus.” explains gynaecologist and director of Gynaecworld, Dr Duru Shah.” A fibroid in the cavity or the muscle of the uterus will probably have to be removed but one just above the uterus will cause no problem”. There are drugs that can help shrink a very large fibroid, but surgery is the only option if fibroids are to be removed. Laparoscopic or key-hole surgery is an enticing option, but can be carried out only by an experienced laparoscopic surgeon as it “required finesse of suturing,’ says Dr. Shah. “ Very often, if not properly sutured, the scar can rupture during pregnancy, casing complications,” she advises. Open surgery, on the other hand, takes much longer to heal but is ideal for those planning a baby, adds Dr. shah.
There is a newer option too: a hysteroscopy. Unlike the laparoscopy, where a telescope and surgical equipment, is passed through a tiny cut in the abdomen in the hysteroscopy, the telescope and equipment is inserted through the vagina and the fibroid scraped out.
If a patient has multiple fibroids which grow back even after being removed, a hysterectomy is advised. Earlier, a hysterectomy meant removal of the uterus as well as the ovaries, like in Surekha’s case. Today, however, the ovaries need not be removed, causing no hormonal imbalance. For 44-yearold Rihanna(name changed), who suffered from the pain and inconvenience of “six small fibroids and one the size of a tennis ball,” removing her uterus was the only option, she says. “I was approaching menopause, and since the hysterectomy two years ago, I have had no problems says Rihanna.
DOWN AND OUT
Does uttering the V-word make you wince? Gynaecologist Anita Soni tackles some of the most common vaginal woes
THE DOS AND DON’TS BIKINI WAXING
Models do it, actresses do it and now even the youngsters have caught onto this trend. Bikini waxing is a method of depilating public hair. As preparation, make sure your hair is not too long or too short, choose an experienced person for waxing, you could pop a pain killer (one hour before heading to the parlour) and wear comfortable cotton underwear after waxing. Some women may develop folliculitis (pimple-like boils) post waxing and may require antibiotics for the same. These are other less painful ways of maintaining hygiene---clipping hair with a sterilized scissor, shaving and laser treatment.
DESPITE MAINATANING HYGIENE THERE’S ODOUR IN THE VAGINAL AREA
Odour from the vagina could be due to vaginal infections that is either fungal, trichomonial or bacterial. It is generally accompanied with vaginal discharge which could be curdy white, lacy white discharge with greenish discoloration (in trichomonial infection) or thick creamish discharge as in the case of bacterial infection. All these are sexually transmitted with antifungal or antibacterial medications, Post-treatment; maintain regular hygiene by washing the area twice a day.
SHOULD YOU BLEED THE FIRST TIME YOU HAVE SEX?
All women have a hymen which is at the opening of the vagina. This hymen may tear in childhood during vigorous exercises, cycling, jumping or due to masturbation. If intact, the women will bleed while having sex for the first time. However bleeding does not indicate virginity in a female as it can be ruptured by other factors as well.
YOUR SATIN UNDERWEAR GIVES YOU AN ITCHY SENSATION AROUND THE VAGINA.
Itchy sensation around the vagina could be due to vaginal infections it could also be an allergy to satin underwear or sanitary pads. Since we live in humid climate, it is advisable to use comfortable cotton underwear. Sweat combined with synthetic material cause’s itchiness and irritation. To combat this, wash the area frequently and use unscented talcum powder.
YOU SUFFER WHITE DISCHARGE AROUND A WEEK BEFORE PERIODS AND FEEL WEAK.
White discharge before periods is due to progesterone effects on the cervical mucous. Around this time the vagina secretes a harmless white fluid. If the discharge does not emit a foul odour or cause itching, do not feel afraid. Many people associate it with weakness, but that is just a myth. You could say the stress that comes with P M Sing makes you feel weak.
WEARING SANITARY PADS GIVES YOU SEVER RASHES. TAMPONS TOO ARE UNCOMFORTABLE.
Modern day synthetic sanitary pads are known to do that. Ultrathin sanitary pads use a material that transforms menstrual blood into gel. This gives us a pseudo-dry feel and hence the less frequent change of pads. These pads, when come in constant contact with the skin, create rashes and an itchy sensation. Tampons is certainly not The way to go, as there have been cases of it causing sever vaginal infections. The way out is to use cotton sanitary pads and a frequent change every four hours.
IS IT NORMAL TO URINATE AFTER HAVING SEX?
The sexual act in some women may lead to a burning sensation in the vagina. This can be due to lack of lubrication or a yeast infection, both of which cause frequent urination. This condition is known as honeymoon cystitis. Here there is an infection of the urinary tract. Most cases call for a detailed gynaecological checkup for the couple.
SMALL WHITE PIMPLES APPEAR ALL AROUND THE VAGINA. WILL IT AFFECT FUTURE SEX LIFE?
White pimples may be due folliculitis or molluscum contagiosum. Folliculties can happen due to infection after shaving. Molluscum is a viral skin infection. Both can be treated with antibiotics. Sometimes occurrence of white pimples also symbolises herpes genitalis---an STD which calls for urgent treatment.
•
Is it safe to have sex during periods?
A common misconception is sex during periods can ease menstrual pain. Premenstrual pain. Premenstrual sexual activity does help in period pain. Sex during periods should be avoided, at least for the first two days because chances of infection during this time are high and also penetration can causes the blood to push back into the cavity.
•
How to ease period cramps on a long term?
Period cramps are normal. Cramps can be eased by mefanamic acid available at all chemists and basic over-the–counter painkillers. The mouth of the uterus of a virgin is closed tightly. Once sexually active, the pain should lessen.
•
Sanitary pads or tampons—which are safer?
Choosing pads or tampons is purely an individual preference. However, virgins should refrain from using tampons. While it may not necessarily tamper with your hymen, it could cause a teat in a more lax one. Many sexually active women find tampons more convenient since they cause no soiling on the outside but you have to change your tampons every four hours.
•
Can irregular periods cause problems during sex or having babies?
Young girls tend to have irregular cycles when they start their periods. But with age, irregular periods could become serious issue caused by thyroid or Polycystic Ovary Disease (PCOD). A stressful lifestyle can also cause an irregularity. IF the problem persists, get it treated. A problem like this could also get in the way of conceiving.
Women use 500 chemicals on face
& body every day
London: Modern women apply over 500 chemicals daily on their face and body in the form of various beauty products every day to look beautiful, a new study claimed.
The beauty-conscious ladies apply up to 13 products, most of which contain more than 20 ingredients, including additives that could lead to cancer and various skin problems the study problems, the study by deodorant firm Bionsen said.
“Beauty regimes have changed dramatically from a simple ‘wash & go to daily fake tan applications, regular manicures, false lashes and hair extensions,” charlotee Smith of Bionsen was quoted as saying by the sun.
Lipstick, the most commonly used cosmetic, contains on average 33 chemicals, body lotion 32, mascara 29, and hand moisturiser 11, the study found. Perfumes contain an average cocktail of 250 chemicals with some containing as any as 400, it found.
Late marriage, stress trigger endometriosis
Mumbai: As Bollywood actor Katrina Kaif got discharged on Thursday morning after endometriosis, city gynacelosgists say the condition is fast becoming an unhealthy trend among uppercrust urban women.
With late marriages and child-bearing years, along with high levels of stress and improper eating habits, young women in cities are prone to the painful disease-which has no permanent cure. “But there is no study to suggest why some women should get the disease and not others. Most women suffering from endomtrosis suffer from pain, extra bleeding and irregular menses. Almost all have problems conceiving,” said dr. Neeta warty, the gynaecologist who treated the actor. As for the actor herself, kaitrina’s Spokesperson told TOI that she was fine.”She was discharged from Breach Candy Hospital. She had to undergo a small surgical procedure because of low hemoglobin levels in her system.”
Endometriosis affects about 89 million young women in the reproductive age group worldwide. “About 10-15% of all women have some or the other level of endometriosis. Thirty-five out of 100 women who come to us with infertility suffer from endometriosis,” said Dr. Rishma Pai, consultant gynaecologist with Lilavati Hospital in Bandara Reclamation.
When the tissue which lines the uterus ( endometrium) grows in abnormal locations such as the ovaries or around the uterus, the condition is called endometriosis. “Every time the woman has her menses, there is also bleeding in the tissue. So, if she has endometrioses the bleeding takes place in the abdominal cavity, from where the blood is not flushed out of the body. Over a period of time the blood accumulates in the ovaries, forming a cyst,” Sai Dr Duru Shah, who is based – kemp’s corner. Unless the cys formed in the abdomen is to big. It will not show in a sonography and thus, the only was to find out if a woman is suffering from endometriosis is before examining it laproscopically.
Throwing up ?
BT tells you how to deal with morning sickness…
Pregnancy is not all about the attention you great and the glow on your face. Several women go through terrible bouts of morning sickness early in their pregnancy and about 50 per cent of women experience vomiting. While some women may be sick all day, some feel sick in the evening, and others in the evening, and others in the morning. Morning sickness usually commences in the sixth week and is known to be at its peak in the eighth and ninth week. However find that morning sickness abates after 14 weeks. Here’s how you can deal with this problem….
Lie down
It may sound too easy but it works. Life down, close your eyes and breathe deeply. May be all you need is a little bit of rest. Try and catch up on sleep for at least an hour during the day--- it will help you feel better.
Take an off
If you’re working during your pregnancy, and suffer from morning sickness, tell yourself that it really is okay to sometimes bunk work. If you feel absolutely miserable in the morning and don’t feel like getting out of bed, don’t! it’s fine to give your body a break sometimes.
Find a scent you like
Sometimes the most oddest things may make you feel like throwing up. Research says that morning sickness is more often than not associated with smell. The hormone, estrogen is responsible for your sense of smell and is also what you can blame for making you want to throw up when you smell something. When you realize what smell doesn’t agree with you, carry a bottle of lemon extract or any other thing that makes you feel better and sniff it whenever you start feeling nauseous.
Drink water
While it may seem like a task to put, anything in your tummy , the more water you drink, the more you’II hydrate your body, which will make you feel better. Not having adequate water increases nausea.
Be prepared
If you can’t help out stepping out of the house, make sure that you carry some essentials that will help you freshen up after you throw up. Carry a change of clothes as well as a toothbrush, toothpaste, mints and a bottle of mouthwash. If you can carry a plastic bag to vomit in, by all means carry one.
Talk to your partner
There’s nothing wrong in admitting to your better half that you’re feeling mistable most of the time. Sometimes it may be his after shave that might cause you to gag. Discuss it he can help and make things better
Include ginger in your diet
Ginger is known for its soothing qualities especially when it comes to the stomach. Add a slice of ginger to a cup of not water of your tea. Try and include it in your food as well.
Keep yourself distracted
While it isn’t too easy to simply take you mind off the waves of nausea that take control of your body, make a conscious effort to distract yourself when you start that familiar uncomfortable feeling creeping up on you. Go for a walk, read an interesting book or listen to your favorite music.
Go holistic
Acupressure wristbands apply light pressure to a spot located inside the wrist bands apply light pressure to a spot located inside the wrist that is related to nausea. Certain women say it helps them a great bit in reducing vomiting. Do some breathing exercises for a few minutes daily and ask your doctor if you can do a few basic yoga asanas.
It’s okay to take medication
While many people will tell you to “just deal with it,’ there is no harm in asking your doctor to prescribe you something that will help you alleviate the symptoms of morning sickness. Don’t worry about your baby being harmed, your doctor knows just what he’s giving you and the relief you feel will be good for your baby, too
Doctors divided or ring’s appeal
Beyond The Pill
Latest Contraceptive/vaginal birth control ring
USP/can be inserted just once a month, unlike the pill, which needs to be taken daily.
BENEFITS
Self-administration/In clinical trials in the West, 96% of women reported that the ring was easy to insert and 98% said it was easy to remove.
Low estrogen exposure/it delivers hormones slowly and steadily, unlike the pill, which has a higher dosage of hormones.
Fewer side-effects/As it is not taken orally, women don/t suffer from nausea, bloating or tenderness in the breasts, which are associated with pills.
DANGERS
Women with these conditions shouldn’t use the rings
History of heart attack or stroke/History of blood clots in legs, lungs or eyes/History of blood clots in deep veins of legs/chest pain/Sever high blood-pressure/Diabetes with complications of the Kidneys, eyes nerves or blood vessels/Headaches with neurological symptoms/Known or suspected breast cancer or cancer of the lining of the uterus, cervix, or vagina (now or in the past)
How it works
The flexible, transparent ring disperses hormones throughout the ring’s core. They get absorbed through the vaginal lining into the bloodstream. Like the pill, they inhibit ovulation.
Vaginal ring
What Contraceptives Women use
Not using Any-----------------------------44%
Sterilisation------------------------------38%
Pill-----3% Condom-------%
Rhythm-----5% Withdrawal-------3%
IUD (Intra Uterine Device)
Mumbai: The new female contraceptive—the vaginal ring—keeps introducing estrogen and progesterone into the blood through the vaginal lining to prevent ovulation.
Dr Rekha davar, who head the gynecology department of the state-run JJ Group of Hospitals, said, “The ring is too expensive to be accessible to the majority who need contraceptives to be accessible to the majority who need contraceptives.”The ring was introduced in India in November 2009 and costs a little less than Rs. 800.
However, some doctors feel it is the contraceptive for the modern Indian women, Dr. Mandakini Parihar, who has clinic in Chembur and teaches at K J Somaiyya Medical school, Sion, said, “The most effective way of stabilising the population is to have woman centric contraceptive choices. While women in our country refer tubectomy (in the public sector0 and pills in the private sector), the ring offers a choice of low-hormone dosage with few side-effects.”
Parihar said that over 20 women who visited her clinic in the past three months have converted to the ring. “They are happy with the freedom it offers vis-à-vis the contraceptive pill,” she said.
However, a senior doctors wondered if Indian women “who don’t favour tampons would use a foreign object”.
Seeraj Roy, of the multinational MSD, which launched the ring worldwide, said that pre-launch market research in India revealed potential “women found the idea of once-a-month use attractive. While some doctors told us they were worried about Indian women favouring a vaginal insertion, we found that modern Indian women seemed comfortable with it’
According to Dr. Urvashi Jha, of Max Healthcare, Delhi, ”Twenty years back, the Indian woman would be scared, but now any more , we helped many women use it the first time and thereafter they were comfortable with it.”
Dr. Duru Shah, who has a clinic at Kemp’s Corner, said that hormonal contraceptives have traditionally not been favoured by Indian women. “They are still guided by talk of the early pill, which had high doses of hormones and were feared to have caused uterine cancer, ”said Shah.
Indeed, the three national Family Health Surveys (NFHS) done in the Indian women still depend that Indian women still depend on sterilisation. Over 38%chose sterilisation while only3% depended on pills.
Davar said,” The market is flooded with contraceptives that have different delivery systems. It depends on what the woman is comfortable with.” She said the ring is a new version o the original pill. “It works on the same principle. But it is too expensive to get popular, ”she added.
THE TOP 5 THREATS TO YOUR HEALTH
Women face different health challenges compared to men. Understanding the issues helps long, healthy living. The top five health challenges faced by women relate to heart disease, breast cancer, osteoporosis, depression, and autoimmune disease.
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HEART DISEASE
Considered a problem of men, heart disease is in fact a leading killer or women responsible for about 29% of death. Changing trends like increase in the number of women who smoke or use tobacco products tends to nullify the protection rendered by the female hormones. Women of all ages should take steps to reduce the risk of heart disease and practice healthy living.
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BREAST CANCER
Breast cancer is the most common form of cancer and the second most common cause of cancer-related death in women. The primary causes of breast cancer are considered to be genetic and/or hormonal factors. Being overweight or obese after menopause, lack of physical activity and alcohol consumption are some risk factors for breast cancer. Advice of the general physician should be sought if there is any breast pain or any other symptom that does not go away. Women should undergo a ‘baseline’ Mammogram sometime between age 30 and 35 years. Those with a family history of breast cancer should then every year to recommend by the medical consultant.
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OSTEOPOROSIS
Osteoporosis is a major public health threat that threatens a lot people, of which 68% are women. The bone mass is built up by the body until age 30. Thereafter, the focus is on maintaining bone health dependent on the behavior developed by women in their childhood, adolescent and early adult years. Women are particularly at risk after menopause. Stress , smoking, improper diet, inadequate calcium intake, inadequate exposure to sunshine, decreased vitamin D, deliveries and lack of regular exercise are all contributory to the process of osteoporosis.
Early screening, diagnosis, and intervention is needed to prevent fractures. Those at risk and in women over 65, it is advisable to get the bone density test done.
DEPRESSION
? Women are almost twice as likely as men to Seasonal affective disorder-depression in the winter months due to lower levels of sunlight is more common in women as are the symptoms of atypical depression.
AUTOMIMMUNE DISEASES
? Autoimmune disease are a group of disorders in which the body’s immune system becomes misdirected. It attacks the very organs it was designed to protect. Autoimmunity is the underlying cause of more than 100 serious, nesses include lupus, thyroid disease, multiple sclerosis, and type I diabetes.
Taken together, women are affected three times more than men by autoimmune disease. Genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors have been implicated in the development of these, disease. symptoms can be nonspecific, making proper dingoes difficult.
While the disease do not usually go away the symptoms can be treated.
WOMEN’S HEALTH IN THE NATURAL AGAING COURSE UNDERGOES CHANGES RELATIN TO THE ‘LIFE PHASE’THEY ARE IN. WE LIST A FEW HEALTH POINTRS FOR EVERY WOMAN TO FOLLOW AT EACH AGE.
KEEP IT IN CHECK
The human body undergoes changes with age which translate into health risks. Every decade of life makes the more susceptible to certain conditions that need to be monitored. Vigilance is the key to early diagnosis. Institution of appropriate therapy at the earliest can go a long way in preserving and maintaining good health.
IN THE ADOLESCENT YEARS (AGES 12-20)
Puberty sets in and menstrual cycles begin. The diet requirements changes with more caloric and nutrient requirements, especially calcium as none development peaks. Advised checks include.
? Blood glucose check: This screens for diabetes or hypoglycemia.
? Blood pressure check: A basic test almost every doctor will do.
? Breast exam: it is a useful screen for breast cancer.
? Complete blood count (CBC): Anemica and blood component levels can be monitored.
? Immunisations: The DPT, HPV and meningococcal vaccines are suggested,
? Pap smear: A girl should have her first Pap smear once she becomes sexually active or when she turns 18-whcihnever comes first: it screens for cervical cancer.
? Skin-cancer check :Visual inspection of the entire body as a check for skin cancer should be done at least every three years more if there is a family history of skin cancer or many moles)
? TB test: This test checks for exposure to tuberculosis and in high risk individuals should be done annually or as advised.
? Urinalysis: Screens for urinary tract infections and kidney disorders and kidney disorders and other disease like diabetes.
IN THE 20S and 30S It is important to keep a watch on the weight. Putting on too much will increase the chances of developing conditions like Type II diabetes and heart disease. With skin cancer on the rise in this decade of life enlarging moles and unusual skin changes should be noted . Bone density reaches a peak in the late teens and begins to decline in the 30s.
ANNUAL REGULAR CREENING SHOULD INCLUDE:
? Blood pressure check: At least every two years to keep Type II diabetes and high cholesterol in check.
? Baseline cholesterol screening : Keep track the “good” and “bad” cholesterol levels. Repeat every five years. If high repeat test more frequently.
? Electrocardiogram: A baseline ECG should be done in the 30s followed by another at age 45 to check the health of start.
? Thyroid test : The thyroid gland start causing problems and it is a advisable to have the first test at age 35 and continue every five years thereafter.
? Breast examination : Monthly self exams will help report any strange lumps, bumps or disfigurations.
? Pelvic exam and Pap smear: The first Pap rest, good screening for cervical cancer, should be done within three years of being sexually active or by age 21. After age 30, Pap smears may be done every two to three years instead of annually if three consecutive Pap test results have been normal, and if the risk for a cervical cancer is not high.
? Dental exams: A dental visit twice a year is desirable for teeth and gum cleanings.
? Baseline eye exam: A vision test at least once in the 20s is advisable.
? Stool screening: It is advisable to check for fecal occult blood every other year.
Folic acid, calcium, iron, Zinc and vitamins D and B13 supplements may be advised.
IN THE 40S AND 50S
In this phase of life, the body stats the transition into menopause, which can last anywhere from 2 to 8 years, signs of “perimenopause,” need to be monitored. As the reproductive hormone levels fluctuate, changes in the menstrual cycles, sleep patterns, daily moods and sex drive result. The blood pressure may start to rise and bone health needs to be assessed.
In addition to the regular examinations that are being undergone, the other screenings required are:
? Blood sugar test: To check for sings of diabetes, have regular fasting blood sugar tests starting at age 45 and then once every 3 years.
? Blood sugar test: To check for signs of diabetes, have regular fasting blood sugar tests starting at age 45 and then once every 3 years.
? Mammograms: the first mammogram must happen at age 40 and then as advised colon cancer, the test should start at age 50 and be performed every 10 years or more often for those at risk.
? Rectal exam: Also done to test for colon cancer, the test starts at age 50 and is performed every 5-10 years.
? Skin check: These should be done annually starting in the 40s.
? Regular eye exam: Vision checks should be done every two to four years until age 65.
? Adult immunisations: Flu shots are being advises annually.
Calcium and vitamin D supplementation can help slow bones’ calcium loss.
AGE 60 AND BEYOND
The golden years need attention to be paid to eati9ng right, exercising right and undergoing regular medical checkups. In addition to the screenings already being undertaken some additional care is advised.
? Bone density test: In women over 65, osteoporosis being common it is advisable to get the bone density test done. The test may be recommended earlier if these is a risk of osteoporosis.
? Pelvic exams and Pap smear exam: These need to be done regularly until the age of 65-70 and there have been three normal pap tests within the last 10 years.
? Regular eye exam: Eye disease such as glaucoma being a common aging problem, the eyes need to be checked every one to two years after 65.
? Hearing test: With age haring loss also becomes more common, the hearing test. Should be done every three years or as soon as signs of hearing loss are noted.
? Adult immunisations: starting at age 65, it is advisable to get a pneumonia. Vitamin B12 supplementation may be
Doctors divided or ring’s appeal
Beyond The Pill
Latest Contraceptive/vaginal birth control ring
USP/can be inserted just once a month, unlike the pill, which needs to be taken daily.
BENEFITS
Self-administration/In clinical trials in the West, 96% of women reported that the ring was easy to insert and 98% said it was easy to remove.
Low estrogen exposure/it delivers hormones slowly and steadily, unlike the pill, which has a higher dosage of hormones.
Fewer side-effects/As it is not taken orally, women don/t suffer from nausea, bloating or tenderness in the breasts, which are associated with pills.
DANGERS
Women with these conditions shouldn’t use the rings
History of heart attack or stroke/History of blood clots in legs, lungs or eyes/History of blood clots in deep veins of legs/chest pain/Sever high blood-pressure/Diabetes with complications of the Kidneys, eyes nerves or blood vessels/Headaches with neurological symptoms/Known or suspected breast cancer or cancer of the lining of the uterus, cervix, or vagina (now or in the past)
How it works
The flexible, transparent ring disperses hormones throughout the ring’s core. They get absorbed through the vaginal lining into the bloodstream. Like the pill, they inhibit ovulation.
Vaginal ring
What Contraceptives Women use
Not using Any-----------------------------44%
Sterilisation------------------------------38%
Pill-----3% Condom-------%
Rhythm-----5% Withdrawal-------3%
IUD (Intra Uterine Device)
Mumbai: The new female contraceptive—the vaginal ring—keeps introducing estrogen and progesterone into the blood through the vaginal lining to prevent ovulation.
Dr Rekha davar, who head the gynecology department of the state-run JJ Group of Hospitals, said, “The ring is too expensive to be accessible to the majority who need contraceptives to be accessible to the majority who need contraceptives.”The ring was introduced in India in November 2009 and costs a little less than Rs. 800.
However, some doctors feel it is the contraceptive for the modern Indian women, Dr. Mandakini Parihar, who has clinic in Chembur and teaches at K J Somaiyya Medical school, Sion, said, “The most effective way of stabilising the population is to have woman centric contraceptive choices. While women in our country refer tubectomy (in the public sector0 and pills in the private sector), the ring offers a choice of low-hormone dosage with few side-effects.”
Parihar said that over 20 women who visited her clinic in the past three months have converted to the ring. “They are happy with the freedom it offers vis-à-vis the contraceptive pill,” she said.
However, a senior doctors wondered if Indian women “who don’t favour tampons would use a foreign object”.
However, a senior doctors wondere dif facour tampons would use a foreign object.”.
Seeraj Roy, of the multinational MSD, which launched the ring worldwide, said that pre-launch market research in India revealed potential “women found the idea of once-a-month use attractive. While some doctors told us they were worried about Indian women favouring a vaginal insertion, we found that modern Indian women seemed comfortable with it’
According to Dr. Urvashi Jha, of Max Healthcare, Delhi, ”Twenty years back, the Indian woman would be scared, but now any more , we helped many women use it the first time and thereafter they were comfortable with it.”
Dr. Duru Shah, who has a clinic at Kemp’s Corner, said that hormonal contraceptives have traditionally not been favoured by Indian women. “They are still guided by talk of the early pill, which had high doses of hormones and were feared to have caused uterine cancer, ”said Shah.
Indeed, the three national Family Health Surveys (NFHS) done in the Indian women still depend that Indian women still depend on sterilisation. Over 38%chose sterilisation while only3% depended on pills.
Davar said,” The market is flooded with contraceptives that have different delivery systems. It depends on what the woman is comfortable with.” She said the ring is a new version o the original pill. “It works on the same principle. But it is too expensive to get popular, ”she added.
Lots of anti-wrinkle creams don’t work
A recent study revealed what we’ve feared all along—none of the 12 tested products cane close to eliminating or significantly reducing the appearances of wrinkles. So don’t bother.
The way to lose weight is to eat less and exercise more.
There may well be an on-trend diet to follow, from eating cabbage soup, copious amounts of grapefruit or lean protein, but more fruit and veg ,less fat with 30 minutes of exercise every day is the only way to do it. Sorry!
If you have to ask yourself if it’s Ok to wear a mini skirt then it isn’t
A fashion apparel study revealed that most women think the cut off point for flashing your things is 40
Take compliments gracefully
You never know if it’s going to be your last so don’t bat it off with an “Oh, of course I look great!”
A salad is not lunch
You”II end up having a double sandwich an hour later. Wholegrain will stop your tummy rumbling thanks to their fibrous content and low-glycaemic index. So go for a bowl of pasta instead (Minutes the cheese!).
The housework can wait
Playing with the children sharing a candle –lit meal with your man or catching up with your friends is far more fulfilling than playing the desperate housewife.
Learn to love luxury
Backpacking was fun In your 20s when you could sleep in a noisy dormitory. But a five-star hotel with room service and wifi wins hands down these days.
You may think of your ex but….
Facebooking him will cause too much trouble. You’II either end up disappointed that the school hunk ended up fat and bald or he’II start stalking you.
A Saturday night alone with your TV is not a tragedy
Rather, it’s bliss. Life is so busy It’s a rare thing to enjoy your own company.
A night out with girlfriends is more fun than a night in with your husband
But it’s very comforting to stay in with him the following evening
Learn what true love is
Not chocolates and flowers but a man who’II run looking for the nearest 24-hour chemist at 3 Am when you’ve run out of diapers and the toddler has months.
Blokes with salt and pepper hair begin to look attractive
Think Kabir Bedi, Geroge Clooney and Brad Pitt!
Dating a man with kids doesn’t you off
Instead, it makes him endearing and sensitive.
You finally understand the secret to financial success
Spend less than you earn, sign up to competitive utility deals, pay off your credit card bills, start a pension and tuck a bit away for a rainy day.
Don’t bothers being ‘39’
A huge party for your 40th is one of those fabulous memorable moments in life, just like your wedding Think presents.
