Fertility, Conception, Pregnancy, Birth, Baby

How To Harness Negative Emotions To Nurture A Fertile Mindset

2010-11-07T12:11:00.000-08:00

Emotion = energy in motion. Each emotion has a frequency and a wavelength.emotions

This is why dogs can sense your fear and growl at you or can sense your sadness and nuzzle you to make you feel better.

Like anything that emits a frequency, emotions require energy.

That valuable energy is coming from your energy reserves. Some unpleasant emotions (sadness, anger and rage) can actually help us grow and teach us a lot as long as we know how to harness them.

Lets look at some common negative emotions in turn:

Sadness can be a therapeutic emotion if we allow ourselves to express it. Crying can be very cleansing; it removes old painful emotions and memories.

Here is what Clarissa Pinkola Estes wrote about tears and crying in her beautiful book: Women who run with the wolves:

Tears are rivers that take you somewhere. Weeping creates a river around the boat that carries your soul life. Tears lift your boat off the rocks, off dry ground, carrying it downriver to someplace new, someplace better.(C. Pinkola Estes)

Anger and rage are very powerful emotions. They can also be very cleansing, but in a different way (like a thunder and lightning storm) if released in a productive way.

Guilt is an emotion with little to offer: guilt keeps taking and gives nothing back. Unresolved guilt can attack our own being from the inside and literally eat away at us.

The first step towards releasing an emotion is to become aware of it. Sometimes we carry an emotion around with us for so long that we forget what it really feels like to be free of it.

Here are the 8 ways for harnessing your emotions

1. Become fully aware of how you feel and write it down.

2. Write down all the thoughts that come up while feeling each emotion. These are the anchors which keep the emotion in place.

3. For each emotion write down what exactly makes you feel this way (a person, a situation, something about you).

4. The emotion will intensify or change when you hit the cause and when it does just allow it to flow.

5. If its a person that is making you feel the way you do, write a letter to that person explaining exactly how you feel and why. You dont have to send the letter, you can throw it out as a symbol of letting go of that emotion in your life.

6. If you have had a miscarriage or an abortion write a letter to the spirit that was with you and explain to them that you miss them (if you miscarried) or why you could not look after them at the time (if you had an abortion). Tell them that you wish for them to return and explain that you first need to let go of all the negative emotions related to the event in order for the spirit to move on or come back to you.

7. Before going to sleep at night, think about your desire to be pregnant and have a baby. Lie down in your bed and mentally scan your body for any images or emotions that may be coming up and remember their location. Notice the colors and shapes that you see as they will be valuable clues as to where your blockage to pregnancy may lie. Take a deep breath and visualize the emotion/shape/color leaving your body with the exhalation and new bright white/golden light filling its place on the next inhalation. Repeat this for all blockages you come across. Next visualize the golden light filling your whole body. Express your gratitude for your beautiful healthy body and go to sleep. Keep repeating this for a month, or until you cant detect any odd shapes and colors with your mental scan.

8. Become aware of your real emotions. Many times we consciously desire one thing but subconsciously believe the opposite. Maybe you have an underlying emotion deep within you which is preventing you from becoming pregnant. If that may be the case write down on a piece of paper why you possibly would not want to be a parent or be a parent but not be pregnant.

Sometimes its the fear of pregnancy that keeps it at bay.

Fears can pose a mental or physical block to pregnancy and as such you need to become aware of them.

To see how quickly thoughts can influence your body do the following exercise:

- Imagine you are standing in the open doorway of a flying airplane with a parachute attached to your back.

- All you can see is the ground far below and you need to jump.

If you visualized this and you are not a professional skydiver its most likely that your palms went sweaty or your heart started racing. Even though this was not real, your brain interpreted your thoughts and visions as real. Fears and thoughts and beliefs from a long time ago have the same effect on our conscious and subconscious mind and the body.

So there is a lot to be said about the things we read, saw, heard as we were growing up. We may have forgotten about them but our subconscious mind hasnt.

There are many effective methods for releasing old negative emotions which are standing in our way of living a full and a happy life. Good emotional cleansers are:

- Meditation

- Visualization

- TFT

- EFT

- Yoga

- Breathing Exercises

- Creative expression (dance, painting, writing)

- Exercise

- Massage

- Heart to heart talk with your best friend

- NLP

Copyright 2009 Iva Keene and Natural Fertility Prescription

Information about the Author:

Leading Fertility Naturopath Iva Keene publishes the Ultimate Fertility ezine with tips to get you pregnant ASAP. Get your free Fertility advice at www.natural-fertility-prescription.com To see more articles like this one see Iva's Blog at www.natural-fertility-prescription.com

The Art Of Being Right On Time For Conception

2010-11-04T12:10:00.000-07:00

When it comes to identifying your most fertile times many women are more than happy to swap their bodys wisdom for a gadget or a test kit.

These gadgets and kits are not only expensive, but they also make you feel like you would never be able to work this out yourself.

Mother Nature thinks of everything and she even came up with a clever way of letting you know when you are most likely to get pregnant.

All women are familiar with PMS symptoms (pimples, sore boobs, cravings, mood swings etc.) but very few can accurately recognize the symptoms of their peak fertility.

What are they?

- Mucus fluctuations

- Heightened Sex Drive

- Pheromones make you more attractive to the opposite sex for the duration of your peak fertility (how sneaky is that?)

- Energy boost

Out of those the most reliable key to recognizing your most fertile time is your cervical mucus. I know to some the thought of examining your mucus may sound gross but seriously, its the easiest and simplest way of telling when you should have sex to get pregnant (and avoid sex if you dont want to get pregnant), so just do it. Your cycle is as unique as you are and no gadget will be able to tell you as precisely as your own body when you are fertile. You will also learn a thing or two about your cycle which may surprise you or even alert you that something is wrong. So rejoice that you have an access to such an amazing built in mechanism. Ok here we go;

Mucus fluctuates with your hormones

- At the beginning of the cycle your oestrogen levels are low. The mucus mirrors its levels and will be scanty, sticky and tacky and opaque in colour. This mucus is infertile and hostile to sperm as its acidic and thick thus not allowing the sperm to swim forward. It forms a plug across the cervix preventing sperm from entering.

- As your oestrogen gradually starts increasing with your approaching ovulation, the mucus will change in quantity and texture. This mucus is not yet fertile but its becoming more fluid and the pH is increasing and becoming more sperm friendly.

- As you approach ovulation your mucus will become wetter, clearer and thinner. And there will be more of it (profuse). This is already fertile mucus and it will enable sperm to swim and survive due to a friendly pH.

- Right before ovulation when oestrogen levels peak, mucus will become raw egg white like, it will stretch between your fingers up to 5-10 cm. This type of mucus is also called spin for its ability to be stretched. This is the most fertile type of mucus, it dislodges the mucus plug, leaving the gates to the cervix open, and its consistency allows the sperm to swim and survive. (hint: this is the mucus with baby written all over it)

- After ovulation as the levels of oestrogen start to drop, the mucus will gradually return to what it looked like after the period and before ovulation: infertile.

What are we looking for when checking mucus?

- How does it feel when you are walking around?
- How does it look?
- How much of it is there?
- What colour is it?
- How does it smell and if you are brave enough taste?

When should you check your mucus?

When you have to do a wee. Simple! Before doing a wee just check if there is any mucus on the mouth of the vagina. If there is, examine it between your fingers and use the above criteria to tell if its fertile or not.

This is a simplified explanation of the basics for recognizing your peak fertility. It takes time and practice before you can confidently rely on this information alone. There are also additional natural methods which can confirm whether you ovulated or not. So seek help and advice from a qualified health practitioner versed in natural fertility, who will teach you how to chart your cycles properly.

Having said that practice makes perfect and the sooner you start the faster you will master the art of determining your most fertile time.

Copyright 2009 Iva Keene and Natural Fertility Prescription

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How To Buy Toddler Clothes

2010-10-30T12:09:00.000-07:00

One thing you can guarantee about your baby when she is born, and that is she will have no clothes on; she will be naked. There will be no shock horror amongst the people in the delivery room when the baby makes her grand entry into the human world with its social practices and stigma.

Your first decision will be whether to buy a toddler bed. The toddler bed is a piece of furniture sized just right for babies who are too big for their crib. Most use the mattress from the crib, however, so they are not actually that much bigger in size.

The Long and the Lean

It is believed that the condition of birth determines what a child will look like when it grows up. But there is no way to predict exactly the rate of their growth. However, recent studies have claimed that heavy babies tend to grow up fat and long babies tend to grow up tall. But this may be contestable.

Baby clothing manufacturers do not follow rigorous standards with regard to size. Yes, there are the basic guidelines of 0 – 3 months, 3- 6 months and so on, but compare manufacturers and you will find that interpretations of these sizes can very quite a bit.

It is important that you know of good quality brands for your childrens clothing. A shirt that is manufactured by a well-known and trusted company lasts longer and does not have stain problems. It can even appear like new after your kid wear it several times already and after many washings. When your child no longer needs the clothing, probably because your kids have grown taller and bigger, you may resell them at online children stores for lower prices.

Dress up fun. Go to Goodwill and get a bunch of fun, fancy dress up clothes (old dresses, a boa, high heels, hats, boots, jackets, dress pants, ties). Have your toddler put on a fashion show, if you want to - join your toddler. Have a tea party, play office or restaurant. Let your toddler's imagination flow. Make sure to bring out the camera.

An alternative to even having a dresser and shelves taking up space in your toddler room is to create a closet that takes the place of a bulky dresser. You can easily install a small lock on a closet door to keep a curious toddler out. Simply buy planks of wood and cut them to the depth and width of the closet.

After all, toddlers, especially during the later parts of toddlerhood, can understand what is being told to them easily. Bringing a toy might also help. If the toddler refuses to behave during toddler clothing shopping, parents should promise a reward for appropriate or good behavior. This reward can be small-like a cheap toy or a particular food item.

You should also avoid toddler clothes that are potential fire hazards. Toddler clothes such as those with loose-fitting styles or airy fabrics, or those with loose sleeves and ruffles may be prone to fire. While you can teach your toddler not to play fire and any materials that can create flame (such as matches and lighters), wearing toddler clothes such as fit clothes, clothes with narrow sleeves, and or those made of tightly woven fabrics reduce the chance of catching fire.

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Read About Hair Care Also Read About How To Buy Toddler Clothes and Cleaning Your Child

The Post Birth Survival Guide

2010-10-20T12:04:00.000-07:00

In order to make the first few days after your baby is born into the most positive, happy and relaxed time where you get to spend the maximum amount of time with your beautiful brand-new tiny baby, these are the things that you should allow yourself to do no matter what.

Breastfeed
Try to breastfeed your baby. It is what your body is built to do and it also promotes the love hormone oxytocin to help you bond with your baby. There is nothing on earth that will create a bond as strong as breastfeeding your newborn baby.

Skin to skin contact
Have as much skin to skin contact with your newborn as possible. Have your newborn lying on your chest with just a nappy on and a blanket draped around them to keep them warm. That skin on skin contact will give you a surge of hormones that brings you and your baby ever more closer and strengthens the unique mother-child connection between you.

Love your pyjamas
If you Want to stay in your pyjamas until it's time to go bed again at night, then you do just that! All that matters is that you and your baby get to spend as much time with each
other as possible in those first few days and weeks, so love your pyjamas! Heck, why not get a few extra pairs!

Bath with your baby
A lovely, relaxing, positive thing to do is to get into a warm bath. Then lower your baby slowly and, of course, very carefully into the water on his back.Then bring him to your chest for
a cuddle. Not only are you both relaxing in this warm cocoon of water, but you are also having skin to skin contact as well. This can only promote confidence happiness and positivity
in your newborn.

Never say no to extra help
If your mom offers to do the laundry or your neighbour or friend offers to collect the other children from school, just say yes! This gives you more time to relax and settle into
the routine of a new baby. It also gives you more time to play with and get to know your beautiful little newborn so accept as much help as possible.

Fill that freezer
Make sure that in the week or two run up to the birth, you get friends, family and yourself to cook lots of meals which you can freeze. Then once baby has arrived you can just pull out
pre cooked delicious meals, shove them in the oven and not have to worry about preparing food in the evenings. Therefore you can enjoy more time with your baby.

Catnap, catnap, catnap
Try to get as many snatches of extra sleep as possible, so when baby sleeps you can have a sleep too. Grab as many catnaps as you can during the day and this will help compensate for
all the broken, sleepless nights that you're bound to experience.

Ignore the house work
The house work can wait. The housework doesn't care. House work is irrelevant when it comes to the birth of a new baby. So don't panic, you can be sure lots of people will be happy to chip in with a bit of tidying! You just focus on getting some rest and being with your beautiful bouncing baby.

Information about the Author:

Fern Joseph is a mother of three who is passionate about pregnancy and general nutrition. Visit her website at www.fit-healthy-pregnancy.com

Impact Of Aging On Male Fertility

2010-07-28T12:53:00.000-07:00

Any debate on advancing age and its effects on fertility has always been linked to women as if men do not get impacted at all. This understanding or the lack of it has been exposed thoroughly and research indicates that men too experience significant changes related to fertility in terms of decreasing sperm count and motility as they grow older.

This is a result of the physiological changes that are inevitable and one of them takes place in the form of the reduction of the testicular mass. Simultaneously, there is also a decrease in the testosterone level, the seminal tubes lose their resilience and with the epididymis and the prostate glands shedding cells; the pace of sperm production definitely takes a hit.

To compound the above problems, one out of two men suffer from a benign prostate condition which may not be dangerous to life but seriously inhibits the motility of sperms leading to lesser probability of the egg getting fertilized. Advancing age also weakens the muscles accountable for ejaculation; with the result the sperms ejaculated do not have the legs in them to reach the egg. It is a paradox that despite these problems, semen characteristics continue to remain very much within the standard norms and do not reflect major changes.

Another significant development that has been noticed is the DNA duplication process running into errors and that is the primary reason that semen donation has been restricted till the age of 40, as it has been discovered that the sperm cells of a man in his late forties would undergo far greater divisions as compared to an individual in his twenties.
Certain other complications like the Marfan syndrome, which is a genetic disorder associated with the connective tissue, causing abnormally long limbs and Apert Syndrome, which leads to deformities in the skull, face are known to occur in the offspring fathered by males over 45.

It is an accepted fact that aging by itself does not impact the sexual performance or thwarts a person from becoming a father. It is not the physical aspect that gets affected due to age but problems that are caused due to medication or mental factors that may precipitate a decline in the fertility levels. A case in point is impotence which may be due to some medications being taken for hypertension or diabetes; affecting the sexual performance of an otherwise healthy person. Such individuals need to consult their physician for an alternative mode of treatment.

Low libido due to reduction in testosterone levels, impotence and lack of understanding among the partners invariably causes a lower sex drive which in turn impacts fertility and need to be addressed accordingly. Research has revealed that the ability to have a satisfactory sexual life in the middle years of an individual often determines his sexual performance in his later years, influencing his capability to father children at that age.

Decreasing testosterone levels seriously affects fertility and manifests itself in the form of abnormal weight gain, insomnia, lack of self confidence, anxiety, problems with memory and even loss of hair. The problem needs to be tackled from different perspectives and only then can a practical solution emerge.

It would be incorrect to ascribe loss of fertility to male menopause, as various other reasons like stress, medication in addition to aging also play their part in negatively impacting male fertility. The key to maintain a top physical and physiological state is to indulge in regular exercise, minimize stress and seek timely medical advice. While the subject of male fertility demands far greater attention and research, current information borne out of extensive study shows that men can and do have the capability to father children even in their later years.

Information about the Author:

Steve Taylor is the webmaster of popular Male Fertility Information website. visit us online at www.malefertilitysupplements.com

Things You Can Do To Improve Low Sperm Count

2010-07-05T12:49:00.000-07:00

Problems related to male fertility have been researched and talked about in the recent past. Infertility and low sperm count related problems have been a cause for concern for couples who are not able to conceive.

Following some of the suggestions given below can help in boosting sperm count and thereby the chances of conception. They are:

Cut down on unhealthy habits

It has been medically proven that alcohol and smoking are the main causes for male infertility. Nicotine as well as alcohol inhibits the production of healthy sperms. Men who consume drugs along with alcohol and smoke are at a higher risk of infertility. It is advised to seek professional help to fight such problems.

Take control of stress levels

Stress, depression and other heart ailments are some of the other causes for male infertility and low sperm count. Heredity could be another reason. Tensions at the work place and other personal problems may cause depression which can also lead to male infertility.

One time tested solution which needs to be made part of your daily regimen is regular exercise. Before getting geared up for the exercise regimen, get the green signal from your family physician, so that you do not end up aggravating the problem. Similarly, yoga and other deep meditation techniques are highly effective, since they de-stress the body and helps calm both the mind as well as body.

Follow the right diet

It has been found that obesity is also one of the other reasons contributing to a low sperm count. Eat healthy and nutritious food and desist the temptation of calorie rich soda drinks. Reduce the intake of caffeine. Drink lots of water to keep your body hydrated.

Seek help from a professional

You need to approach fertility clinics and take expert opinion from the experts to boost the sperm count. You need to follow their advice to abstain from alcohol and cigarette smoking.

You could also look at other alternatives like herbal supplements. Extensive research has been conducted on these natural and herbal supplements and they have proven to be highly effective in treating infertility. These herbal supplements are referred as "Semen Volume Enhancers" and they help in improving and energizing sexual health.

Men who drive continuously for long periods of time or men who sit for hours together on the computer need to take a break every half an hour. In case this is not practical, they need to do some exercise with extended breaks. Tight underpants could be another reason for male infertility; the reason being the testes is pressed. Long term sitting results in compression of the testes. During sitting, the thigh area gets warmer and the damage takes place. Professional drivers are also at a greater risk of developing infertility related problems. Temperature changes and lifestyle too have a bearing on the sperm count. Simple and practical changes can be introduced in the lifestyle to fight these problems.
Effect of Cell Phones

Of late, the infertility cases have been on the rise and some of them have been attributed to the extensive use of cell phones. Clinical tests conducted on a group of men who used cell phones for more than four hours daily, revealed that they had a low sperm count. They were potential candidates for developing fertility related problems in the near future.

How can we tackle this problem?

You need to take immediate and responsible steps before the situation gets out of control. Try and cut down on the usage of cell phones. This is one way of preventing phone radiation. Do not attach the cell phone to your belt. Avoid keeping it in your trouser pocket. It results in increase in the temperature. Men of child-bearing age are encouraged to take steps to reduce their exposure to cell phone radiation as much as possible.

Never carry a cell phone on the belt or in a pocket near the groin, where it can raise the temperature in this receptive area and could lead to fertility problems.

Information about the Author:

Steve Taylor is the webmaster of popular Male Fertility Information website. visit us online at www.malefertilitysupplements.com

Early Pregnancy Symptoms Discharge, Heartburn, Nausea and More

2010-06-26T12:48:00.000-07:00

There are many common early pregnancy symptoms. Discharge from the vagina is almost universal in the early weeks of a pregnancy. This increase in the discharge is due to the increase in the growth of the cells lining the vagina. The walls naturally start to thicken as soon as the egg is fertilized and this thickening can cause you to have a discharge of a white, milky fluid. The medical term for this fluid is leucorrhea and is harmless so it doesn¡¯t need any treatment. This discharge may actually continue throughout the pregnancy.

If you notice that the discharge has a foul odour, then this could be the symptom of a bacteria or yeast infection. Other symptoms of this that will require you to have medical treatment in the form of creams and vaginal suppositories include itching and burning sensations. Douching will not have any effect on the normal discharge you experience during pregnancy.

Other early symptoms of pregnancy that you can watch for in addition to missing your normal menstrual period include:

Morning Sickness. This is common in the first trimester of pregnancy and the name comes from the fact that most women have nauseous feelings early in the morning. Nausea and queasiness can occur though at any time of the day or night. You may also develop an aversion to foods you once loved to eat or to the smell of certain foods being cooked. These food aversions and the nausea are not harmful and are a normal part of carrying a baby in the womb. The sick feelings tend to abate at about the 13th or 14th week, although some women continue to feel sick all through the pregnancy. Some helpful hints include having dry crackers ready to settle your stomach and eating small meals more often so that you don¡¯t feel hungry.

Constipation. This complaint affects a large proportion of pregnant women. It is largely due to an increase in the body production of progesterone which decreases the colon ability to absorb water from the food you eat. Drinking more milk than you usually do can also cause bouts of constipation. This problem tends to worsen just after the first trimester. You can help ease the problem by making sure you drink plenty of water, getting plenty of exercise and including foods high in fibre in your diet.

Dizziness or Fainting. Many pregnant women first find out they are pregnant after they faint and then go to the doctor to try to determine the cause. It is also more noticeable in the second trimester when you get up or move suddenly. During pregnancy the blood vessels dilate at a dramatic rate and the amount of blood may be too much for the vessels. This is what causes the dizzy or fainting spells.

Fatique. Feeling more tired than usual is a very common early sign that you may be pregnant. The blood is carrying more oxygen to the fetus in the womb, which causes your heart to beat faster and in turn causes you to feel fatigued. Take naps during the day or if this is not possible start going to bed earlier at night. Eating foods that are rich in protein and iron can also help to reduce the feelings of tiredness.

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For more information onearly pregnancy symptoms like discharge,pregnancy stages,nursing gowns and related topics visit www.Pregnancy-Period.com

Expect Different Changes in Each of the Pregnancy Stages

2010-06-15T12:47:00.000-07:00

There are three pregnancy stages called trimesters. Each one lasts for about three months of the pregnancy and involves bringing new changes to your body, the development of the baby and your relationships with your partner and those around you. It is important to have an understanding of what to expect in each of these stages so that you will not become unnecessarily stressed when they occur. The changes involve your emotions as well as the shape of your body and your level of comfort.

The sexual relationship between partners undergoes a change during these stages as well. The first trimester is often a traumatic experience for both partners with the morning sickness, extreme tiredness and general emotional changes, which often results in a decrease in lovemaking. This usually returns to normal in the second trimester. During the third trimester, with your body expanding quite quickly, you may have to find more comfortable positions in order to show your love for one another and sate your sexual desires.

The first trimester lasts for about twelve weeks. The increase in your hormones will cause you some discomfort with feelings of nausea. You may become ill when you see or smell some of your favourite foods and morning sickness is one of the early signs. When you wake in the morning and get out of bed, you may have to run to the washroom to throw up. Some women experience this later in the day and in some cases it is quite extreme. Usually it does abate by the end of the first three months.

In addition to not having any menstrual periods, you will notice that your breasts are tender and seem to enlarge. You will not notice any major increase in the size of your belly, but by the end of the first trimester, the waistbands may feel a little tighter than normal. You will feel tired most of the time and have to take naps during the day or early evening. Another consequence of this early stage of pregnancy is an increase in the frequency of urinating, which means more trips to the bathroom.

Your pregnancy will start to show during the second trimester. The riskiest period for a miscarriage is over and you can start to relax. You will experience more energy during this time and be able to do most of your normal activities. Due to the increased blood flow to the breasts and genitals, you will have an increased interest in sexual activity. You will start to feel the baby moving inside and have your first ultrasound during this time. This will make the pregnancy seem more real to you.

This is the stage of pregnancy when your uterus will start to enlarge as the baby starts to grow and develop more fully. This also puts more pressure on the blood vessels, often causing your blood pressure to rise. There is also more pressure on the ligaments and muscles of your lower body, resulting in back and leg pain.

The final stage of pregnancy, the third trimester, is the time for you to start planning for the baby if you haven¡¯t already done so. All of the baby organs are developed and this is a time for waiting for the baby to grow. Towards the end of this stage, you will experience a nesting attitude in which you want to make sure you have everything ready for the new arrival. You also need to get more rest at this time to prepare your body for the upcoming event.

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For more information onpregnancy stages,early pregnancy discharge, nursing gowns, and related topics visit www.Pregnancy-Period.com

Planning a Pregnancy One of the Often Overlooked Stages of Pregnancy

2010-06-01T12:44:00.000-07:00

Many people refer to the stages of pregnancy as the three trimesters. However, your health before you get pregnant plays an important role in having a healthy pregnancy and in giving birth to a healthy baby. Although many pregnancies are unplanned, when you do start thinking about having a baby it is essential to start the process of planning. Before you even know that you are pregnant, the baby is starting to form in the womb and the organs are starting to develop. To give the little one a head start, the planning stage is a critical one that you shouldn¡¯t overlook.

When you plan your pregnancy, you will likely conceive easier and avoid many of the complications associated with pregnancies. The healthier you are before you get pregnant, the easier delivery you will have and the faster you will recover. This means being aware of your body and the changes it will go through over the 40 weeks of the pregnancy. You do need to have a complete check up to ensure you don¡¯t have any pre-existing medical conditions that will make it difficult for you to conceive and carry the baby to full term. The first step is to stop taking birth control pills. It may take you two or three months after this to be able to conceive. However, if you are using other methods or birth control, such as condoms or a diaphragm, you can easily become pregnant right away.

You should know the common signs of being pregnant, such as a missed period, tender and swollen breasts, an increase in the urge to urinate and nausea. Your emotions will also start to change so that you may start crying over very insignificant things, which could cause your partner to get frustrated with you. These changes occur before you have your first pregnancy test, so you may not even realize that you are going to have a baby.

The care giver you choose is a part of planning your pregnancy as well. You may opt to use a midwife or a physician. If you do encounter complications, the physician may refer you to a gynaecologist early in the pregnancy or may wait until later. You should get used to being poked and prodded and having many different kinds of medical tests and exams. These include blood tests, tests for glucose and urine tests. Ultrasounds are also part of the prenatal care in which the doctor can determine the health of the baby.

Where you choose to have your baby is also something that you need to consider. While many women choose to have the baby in the regular delivery room of the hospital, you may want to have your baby at home. You do need to make sure that the birth setting you choose offers the best medical care so that if complications arise during the birth they can be handled at this location.

Learning to reduce the amount of stress in your life is also a part of the planning stage. Stress can cause you to enjoy or detest the idea of being pregnant, which in turn will affect the health of the baby. Make sure you are in good physical shape before you become pregnant so that your muscles, joints and ligaments are strong. You should also continue with your exercise as best you can while you are pregnant.

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For more information on thestages of pregnancy, early pregnancy symptoms like discharge, nursing gowns, and related topics visit www.Pregnancy-Period.com

Boosting Your Sperm Count

2010-05-19T12:40:00.000-07:00

Problems related to male fertility have been researched and talked about in the recent past. Infertility and sperm count related problems have been a cause for concern for couples who are not able to conceive.

Following some of the suggestions given below can help in boosting sperm count and thereby the chances of conception. They are:

Cut down on unhealthy habits

It has been medically proven that alcohol and smoking are the main causes for male infertility. Nicotine as well as alcohol inhibits the production of healthy sperms. Men who consume drugs along with alcohol and smoke are at a higher risk of infertility. It is advised to seek professional help to fight such problems.

Take control of stress levels

Stress, depression and other heart ailments are some of the other causes for male infertility and low sperm count. Heredity could be another reason. Tensions at the work place and other personal problems may cause depression which can also lead to male infertility.

One time tested solution which needs to be made part of your daily regimen is regular exercise. Before getting geared up for the exercise regimen, get the green signal from your family physician, so that you do not end up aggravating the problem. Similarly, yoga and other deep meditation techniques are highly effective, since they de-stress the body and helps calm both the mind as well as body.

Follow the right diet

It has been found that obesity is also one of the other reasons contributing to a low sperm count. Eat healthy and nutritious food and desist the temptation of calorie rich soda drinks. Reduce the intake of caffeine. Drink lots of water to keep your body hydrated.

Seek help from a professional

You need to approach fertility clinics and take expert opinion from the experts to boost the sperm count. You need to follow their advice to abstain from alcohol and cigarette smoking.
You could also look at other alternatives like herbal supplements. Extensive research has been conducted on these natural and herbal supplements and they have proven to be highly effective in treating infertility. These herbal supplements are referred as "Semen Volume Enhancers" and they help in improving and energizing sexual health.

Men who drive continuously for long periods of time or men who sit for hours together on the computer need to take a break every half an hour. In case this is not practical, they need to do some exercise with extended breaks. Tight underpants could be another reason for male infertility; the reason being the testes is pressed. Long term sitting results in compression of the testes. During sitting, the thigh area gets warmer and the damage takes place. Professional drivers are also at a greater risk of developing infertility related problems. Temperature changes and lifestyle too have a bearing on the sperm count. Simple and practical changes can be introduced in the lifestyle to fight these problems.

Effect of Cell Phones

Of late, the infertility cases have been on the rise and some of them have been attributed to the extensive use of cell phones. Clinical tests conducted on a group of men who used cell phones for more than four hours daily, revealed that they had a low sperm count. They were potential candidates for developing fertility related problems in the near future.

How can we tackle this problem?

You need to take immediate and responsible steps before the situation gets out of control. Try and cut down on the usage of cell phones. This is one way of preventing phone radiation. Do not attach the cell phone to your belt. Avoid keeping it in your trouser pocket. It results in increase in the temperature. Men of child-bearing age are encouraged to take steps to reduce their exposure to cell phone radiation as much as possible.

Never carry a cell phone on the belt or in a pocket near the groin, where it can raise the temperature in this receptive area and could lead to fertility problems.

Information about the Author:

Steve Taylor is the webmaster of popular Male Fertility Information website. visit us online at www.malefertilitysupplements.com

Facts and Information on Tubal Ligation Reversal and In-Vitro Fertilization (IVF)

2010-05-04T12:38:00.000-07:00

It takes a lot of consideration and reflection before you can decide as to whether you should go ahead with a tubal ligation procedure, partly because it is supposed to be permanent. Unfortunately there are many women who, after performed this procedure, years later then feel they after all want to have another child and for many of them a reversal is achievable. Pregnancy rates after a reversal tubal ligation are high and the covalence period is quick. This could be the option for you if you want to add to your family.

Tubal ligation reversal will not be a good option for every woman. To find out if the procedure is suitable for you, visit a tubal reversal doctor who will carry out an assessment by examining your fallopian tubes with the aid of a laparoscope, a tiny camera used to investigate the insides of your tubes to determine their health.

The doctor will also examine your records from when you had your tubes tied, as they will need to know which type of method was used to block them. Before the specialist can consider your tubes to be healthy they have to find out how they have been blocked, the length of your remaining tubes and if they seem undamaged.

A tube reversal involves rejoining the two parts of the fallopian tube that remain after a section has been tied, clamped, or burned. Generally a healthy fallopian tube is around 10cm in length. After having your tubes tied the remaining tubal segment lengths can vary. The longer the tubes the higher the probability you will get pregnant.

Although tubal ligation reversal is not a procedure to be taken lightly, it is not a complicated surgery and can be done on an outpatient basis by a very experienced tubal surgeon. How long your reversal takes will depend on how they were tied in the first place and the expertise and knowledge of your doctor. After the operation a patient should take it easy for at least a week before returning to work and if experience any bleeding or infection then get in touch with the clinic or hospital where the surgery was performed.

The actual tubal ligation procedure only takes around an hour and the chances of getting pregnant after a tubal ligation reversal are higher than pregnancy rates for in-vitro fertilization and it will certainly be a cheaper alternative

Of course, there is no certainty that you will conceive after having a tubal ligation reversal just as there is no certainty that any woman will become pregnant even if she hasn’t had tubal surgery. Your age and health will affect your chances of getting pregnant; a young woman will generally get pregnant a lot easier than women over 35 and 40.

If you feel unease about having tubal surgery then an alternative is to try in-vitro fertilization (IVF). This is a method used by many women who have previously had their tubes tied. Success rates however are not as high as a tubal ligation reversal and there are higher costs involved. Also be prepared for lots of visits to the clinic and numerous injections if you are considering going down this route.

Studies show that a tubal ligation reversal is generally more successful for women wanting to get pregnant than undergoing IVF treatment. A fertility clinic will be able to answer all your questions and address any worries you may have with regard to the procedure. Although tubal ligation is intended to be permanent, a good surgeon will have a lot of success in repairing the fallopian tubes of women who want to have another baby. Before making any major decisions consider all your options and good luck!

Information about the Author:

Michiel Van Kets provides article services for Dr. Gary Berger, who is widely known as the tubal reversal doctor with the most experience reversing tied tubes and tubal ligation in the Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center. For information and advice on reversing tubal ligation, sterilization and tubal reanastomosis visit the website.

The First Trimester of Pregnancy: A Time of Caution

2010-04-26T12:18:00.000-07:00

The first trimester is the most critical moment of pregnancy since the mother should take all necessary precautions to be able to ensure safe growth of the baby. During this time, developments of essential body parts happen that pregnant mothers should know what food to eat and what activities to take. Whatever changes that will take place during the first twelve weeks of pregnancy will be permanent. Whatever the beginning is will be carried throughout the end.

It may be said however that the early pregnancy stages should be treated with care, it does not mean that the next few weeks of being pregnant should not be considered essential too. The point of saying this is that the essentials of your baby’s growth like the placenta and the fingers and the vital organs happen to initiate during this term. There are a lot of good things that you could expect from the first trimester of your pregnancy. Knowing these expectations can give you track of what is going to happen and what will you to adapt to the event or change.

Here is an account of the week by week changes of your baby during the first few weeks of your pregnancy. For the week 1 of your pregnancy, the health care provider will count forty weeks from the first date of your last menstruation. This means that your pregnancy period kicked off even when you aren’t pregnant yet. The second week is the week of fertilization. This time the sperm and egg unite to create a zygote. The zygote then travels from the fallopian tube to the uterus.

Pregnancy stages include the third week as important part of the whole pregnancy when the zygote turns into a blastocyst and nourishes itself in the placenta. Moreover, the embryonic period begins at week 4. the baby’s heart and the circulatory system forms. At week five, your baby reaches the size of the tip of the pen. His can be very exciting since the mother can now hear the baby’s heart beating her. Week six marks the forming of the passageways like the mouth and the inner ear and the formation of the digestive and respiratory tracts. The pregnancy’s first trimester still continues with the appearance of the umbilical chord in the seventh week. The arms will look like a tiny paddle that indicates the baby’s movement. On week eight, The baby’s fingers and toes form. The baby is an inch long in the ninth week. Your baby’s head will be tucked down unto the chest as it looks half the size of the body.

Neurons multiply in week ten and it could be possible that baby’s sex can be apparent. Determining the gender of the baby is one of the highlights of pregnancy. Other mothers, however, will still have to wait for the next pregnancy stages because babies might not have positioned themselves to be easily seen by the practitioner. On the last part of the initial trimester, baby’s finger nails and toe nails appear.

Taking care of your baby all through out the pregnancy is a must for mothers who want to ensure the baby’s physical, mental and emotional stability.

The first trimester is the most critical moment of pregnancy since the mother should take all necessary precautions to ensure the safe growth and development of the baby. During this time your baby starts to develop critical body systems. To ensure their proper growth, pregnant mothers should know what foods to eat and what activities to avoid.

Information about the Author:

Know what happens to your baby during the first trimester of your pregnancy at Aha! Baby. You can also find articles explaining your baby’s developments for all pregnancy stages at Aha! Baby.

How is Gender Determined? The Answer You've Been Looking For.

2010-04-15T12:07:00.000-07:00

The gender of an organism is determined before the moment of fertilization, when female and male gametes join and the zygote is formed. Gametes are haploid cells that contain half of a genetic set. Male gametes are called spermatozoan, while female gametes are called ovum, or eggs. Eggs can only contain an X chromosome, while sperm can contain either an X or Y. Whether an X or Y chromosome is carried by the sperm is a crucial part of determining the gender of the child.

How is Gender Determined? - Biology

It's impossible to tell the sex of a human child for the first ten weeks. Up to this point, the baby has the potential to become a male or female. Fetuses have basic female genitalia for several weeks after fertilization. At 12 weeks, the chemical differentiation occurs. If the Y chromosome isn't present, and the child has an XX chromosome pair, the mullerian ducts change into more pronounced female genitalia, triggered by a boost of estrogen.

If the infant has an XY chromosome pair, increased testosterone levels trigger the formation of wulffian ducts. These ducts become the male genitals. The clitoris changes into a penis, and the labia turns into a scrotum. This occurs between 16 and 20 weeks into the pregnancy.

In most cases, the presence of the Y chromosome decides the gender of the child. Occasionally, a female with an XY combination or a male with an XX combination occurs. This is due to increased levels of estrogen or testosterone respectively. Sexual development occurs normally, yet some fertility issues can occur in adulthood.

How is Gender Determined? - Cultural

Gender is determined by a myriad of factors, and boils down to how gender is actually defined. Biologically, gender is defined by the presence of certain reproductive organs. More correctly, gender is defined by attitudes, behaviors and roles, defined by the society of the individual. Gender is mostly a cultural product, resulting form interaction between the person and their society. Following this line of thought, gender is and can be entirely determined by the individual.

Gender reassignment surgery is becoming increasingly accessible. This breakthrough can successfully change the genitalia to that of the opposite sex. Petitioning a court and requesting a gender change is a way to legally recognize a gender change. Transgender and transsexual people are increasingly accepted in today's culture.

How is Gender Determined? - Other Methods

Some species of birds, insects, and fish have a different way to determine sex. For these animals, the female gamete can contain either a Z or W chromosome. Male gametes only carry the Z chromosome, making ZW pairs female and ZZ pairs male.

Other insects like wasps and bees don't have sex chromosomes. The gender of these species is determined by fertilization. Fertilized eggs become females, while unfertilized eggs become males. This process of unfertilized reproduction is called parthenogenesis.

How is Gender Determined? - The Future

How gender is determined may be determined by parents in the future. New research indicates that the sex of the child may be highly influenced by the diet of the mother. It is thought that the foods eaten by the mother can affect the environment of the womb and fertilization. Calcium, potassium, and vitamins C, E, and B12 are all linked to producing male offspring.

Information about the Author:

Visit as at bright-horizon.org to find more interesting articles there!

More information about pregnancy may be of paramount importance

2010-04-02T12:37:00.000-07:00

The woman’s body may have different reactions and the pregnancy sighs may differ as well. Therefore, am I pregnant or not? This seems to be one of the most common questions because the women tend to experience a wide range of pregnancy signs. But the early pregnancy signs may not occur at all and this is when the pregnancy test can be extremely helpful in order to find out whether you are pregnant or not. Such tests can be found online but you will have to browse the internet in order to find a reliable site that can provide you with quality tests. The early signs are likely to differ from woman to woman and you have to be aware that knowing the signs is of paramount importance especially if you are already experiencing their effects.

The signs may also be related to other causes besides pregnancy and you have to be aware of this fact too when wondering if you are pregnant or not. You must provide yourself with more information about pregnancy in order to know how to deal with this wonderful situation. For instance, if you miss your period, you should know that this sign may show you that you are already pregnant. Still, this sign may be related to a disease too and you will have to pay a visit to the doctor in order to find the real diagnostic.

You will have to take the pregnancy test in order to make sure that you are pregnant or not. Missing your period is among the most common signs that can show you that you are pregnant. Still, you will have to undergo the test too in order to be sure. Frequent urination is among the most common signs too and you will have to provide yourself with more information about pregnancy in order to understand the way your hormones change their natural level because of the implantation of your embryo.

Still, if you are already experiencing one of these signs, you must confirm this situation. In case that the result is positive, you should provide yourself with the useful pregnancy calendar in order to monitor the entire pregnancy period. This calendar is to be used in order to learn more about the way your body and your baby are progressing together during the pregnancy. This piece of information is valuable because this calendar can show you whether the things are going in the right way or not.

The constant monitoring of your pregnancy is extremely helpful and you should make use of this tool in order to avoid certain common fears that are related to this period. So, if you have already found out the answer to the question “am I pregnant or not?”, you should browse the internet in order to find a reliable site that can provide you with the pregnancy calendar. This calendar is likely to be available for free and the only thing that you will have to do is to register with a particular site by entering the e-mail address in order to receive all the updates. By doing this simple movement, you will provide yourself with more valuable information about pregnancy.

For instance, you will learn more about the way your body and your child develop. You may learn more about the changes that are going to take place in your body when expecting a child and you will be bale to relax because you will avoid the constant worries. Suggestions and tips are also likely to be included in these e-mails in order for you to become more prepared for your baby and his/her arrival. The benefits that can be brought along by these e-mails are enormous and you should become aware that gaining knowledge about your pregnancy is of paramount importance when you are expecting a child. You will be able to organize the necessary baby care in advance. You will be able to plan everything in order to make sure that your baby will be healthy and happy. The only thing that you need is to find out more information about pregnancy because ignorance is not bliss in this particular case.

Information about the Author:

More information about pregnancy is of paramount importance when expecting a child. And if the answer to the question am I pregnant or not? is positive, you will have to prepare yourself and try to learn more about your pregnancy

Looking Into the Second Trimester of Pregnancy

2010-03-21T12:16:00.000-07:00

During the first trimester of your pregnancy, nothing but fear, doubts and excitement fill your emotions as you let the thought of “being pregnant” sink into your senses. Your questions on what to do next, what is happening to you and your baby and what are you supposed to act are just a few that bothered you. The fear and excitement during the first trimester will be more intense for the pregnant mother during the second trimester. Although the sensitivity of the baby’s formation lay in the first ten weeks, reaching the second trimester is filled with more developments that each mother is looking forward to. These next few weeks of pregnancy bring into the mother a feeling of deep satisfaction knowing that her baby was able to make it during the first crucial semester.

The second trimester is everything about movement and development that are basically happening within the body of the baby. As the first trimester ends on the twelfth week, you will begin to feel how your pregnancy is becoming real every time your baby’s heart beat become more distinct and audible for your heart and ears. The thought of being pregnant slowly sinks into your nerves which is physically evident on the enlargement of your stomach. The latter is just one of the many physical changes you have to undergo being pregnant. However, the excitement continues knowing that two months ago, your baby is nothing but a cluster of cells yet this soon, he is nor beginning to take form with organs, nerves and muscles.

The growth of your baby and the development of his or her organs are explained by your health care provider in all pregnancy information she gets from your prenatal check up. You need to be updated of any changes, big or small about your baby inside. It pays to know how the baby is able to flex and kick on week thirteen and hormones gear up for both male and female babies during week fourteen. Marking the fifteenth week is the formation of the baby’s skin – the largest organ of the body. Highlighting this moment of your pregnancy is the fact that by reaching the sixteenth week of the second trimester, your baby is capable of making facial expressions that show his feelings about everything around him inside. Moreover, at week eighteen, your baby can hear sounds and would be very sensitive to your voice. Week twenty is your pregnancy’s half-way point where your baby grows to an overwhelming six inches log and weighs more or less 9 ounces.

Knowing what happens to the life inside you in all pregnancy information available will aid you in working out for nothing more than your baby’s good. Ask your healthcare providers about the food you can and cannot take together with an exercise program that will not harm the baby inside. The second trimester of your pregnancy is your way to the finale of the journey to having a baby. Take all the best possible actions that will secure healthy growth for your child.

The fear and excitement experienced during the first trimester will be even more intense for the pregnant mother during the second trimester. Although the most critical time in the baby’s growth occurred in the first ten weeks, reaching the second trimester is filled with more developments that each mother is looking forward to.

Information about the Author:

You can learn more about what happens to your baby during the second trimester of your pregnancy at Aha! Baby. You can also find additional pregnancy information to help you understand the changes you and your baby undergo form Aha! Baby.

Eating Dairy Can Make You Infertile

2010-03-15T12:19:00.000-07:00

There is something fundamentally odd about humans consuming dairy. Just think about it. We are the only species on the Planet that drink another mammals breast milk!

Breast milk, be it human or cows is designed for the young one of that species for a limited period of time, before they can eat sold food, period.

In this article we will examine why this beloved, popular food can be so detrimental to your fertility.

We stop producing the enzyme lactase as small children (between ages 2-5). This enzyme helps break down lactose, the major sugar found in dairy products.

Lets look at some stats on lactose intolerance:

- 75% of adults world wide are lactose intolerant
- 30-50 million Americans are lactose intolerant
- 80% of African-Americans are lactose intolerant
- 75% of Native Americans are lactose intolerant
- 90% of Asian-Americans are lactose intolerant

When you eat dairy and you are lactose intolerant your gut becomes inflamed. This increases mucus production in the digestive system. The mucus prevents other nutrients from being absorbed. Excessive mucus production can also occur in the nose, lungs and reproductive system. That is why sniffly nose and asthma like reactions are common in people who are intolerant to dairy. The mucus in the reproductive system can be excessive and can make the sperms journey through the uterus and the fallopian tubes to the egg difficult.

One study found that a major source of animal derived estrogens in the human diet are milk and dairy products, which account for 60-70% of the estrogens consumed. Humans consume milk from the cows in the second half of pregnancy when the estrogen levels are high. Due to genetic modification of the dairy cows (such as Holstein), it is quite possible that the milk consumed today is not the same as it was 100 years ago. These cows are fed a combination of grass and concentrates (grain/protein mixes and various by-products) allowing them to lactate during the second half of pregnancy.

We usually associate dairy and drinking milk with calcium, and never think about what else we may be consuming along with the calcium (and dairy, by the way is not the best source of calcium). Here is a list of hormones which have been found in cows milk:

Prolactin, somatostatin, melatonin, oxytocin, growth hormone, lutenizing releasing hormone, thyroid stimulating hormone, estrogens, progesterone, insulin, corticosteroids and many more. Do you think an excess consumption of all these hormones could disrupt your own hormonal balance? You bet!

Consumption of milk has been linked to some cases of male infertility. Studies have found more concentrated pesticides in cheese than in non organically grow fruit and vegetables. Excess estrogen and pesticide exposure have been linked to PCOS and Endometriosis. The first line of naturopathic treatment for PCOS and Endometriosis is to minimize intake of animal products. Animal products have a high content of hormones, pesticides and herbicides which are known endocrine disruptors. They play havoc with your hormones and this can lead to anovulation.

If you think you are addicted to cheese and milk. Guess what? You are! Milk contains natural morphine, codeine and other opiates. The feel good chemicals are in the milk so that the calf gets addicted to milk and bonds with the mother in order to survive. Morphine = Pleasure, so the calf associates pleasure with drinking milk and comes back for more.

The same chemicals make it into your cheese, which is why so many people love eating cheese. In Switzerland, it was reported that people in this cheese loving country consume an average of 20kg of cheese per year!

Like all addictions it will take some time to overcome it. It takes 21 days for the brain to break or acquire a habit. Go without cheese for 21 days and you will stop craving it. But beware, like all opiates it only takes one bite to become hooked again.

Look, I am not saying never eat dairy again (although, if you are intolerant to it, you would be doing yourself a world of good). It is hard to avoid it, as it is in everything from pizza and creamy pasta sauces to cheese cakes, yoghurts and ice creams. All I am saying is give it a miss while you are trying to get pregnant.

In this article we looked at the negative effects of dairy on your fertility. It can cause inflammation in the gut and lead to poor nutrient absorption. It can adversely affect your cervical mucus production and contribute to hormonal imbalances and anovulation. Therefore as a general rule avoid dairy unless it is organic and you are not intolerant to it. And avoid it altogether if you suffer from PCOS and endometriosis. The best way of finding out if you are intolerant to dairy is to have an IgG immunoglobulin test. Minimize your intake of animal products and increase the intake of organic vegetables and fibre from fruit, grains, nuts and seeds. You can get all the calcium you need from sesame seeds (Tahini), spinach, Chinese cabbage, broccoli, sea weed Kelp and Dandelion leaves.

Sources:

Bernard, N. Breaking the Food Seduction: The Hidden Reasons Behind Food Cravings and 7 Steps to End Them Naturally. NY: St. Martins, 2003.

Ganmaa D, et al. Is milk responsible for male reproductive disorders? Med Hypotheses. 2001 Oct;57(4):510-4.

Keene, I. Natural Fertility Prescription, Switzerland, 2008.

Information about the Author:

Leading Fertility Naturopath Iva Keene publishes the Ultimate Fertility ezine with tips to get you pregnant ASAP. Get your free Fertility advice at www.natural-fertility-prescription.com

How Trojan And Durex Condoms Helped Sexual Health

2010-02-22T12:06:00.000-08:00

There are a variety of contraceptives on the market that can be obtained through a medical professional or over the counter. The most easily available contraceptive is the condom. We take a look at the history of major brands such as Trojan and Durex condoms to find out how the product became so popular and identify what changes have occurred over the years.

Durex condoms are probably the best known brand in the UK and were the first to offer non latex varieties made from polyurethane. This was to address the fact that some people suffer from an allergy to latex. Founded in London in 1915, Durex has now cornered around a quarter of the global market in condom sales. This equates to the production of one billion units per annum.

As well as offering an alternative to latex condoms, Durex has also launched products that are said to improve blood flow, creating a firmer erection. In addition to this they released a vibrating ring that is worn around the base of the penis for greater stimulation. Among their many varieties, Durex have introduced flavoured and ribbed condoms, all available in varying thicknesses for increased or decreased sensation, depending on the needs of the wearer.

In the US, the Trojan brand was declared the most successfully selling condom. Established in 1927, Trojan initially used a material derived from rubber before turning to latex in the 1930s. This was to produce a more comfortable experience through a more natural feeling. Part of their popularity was based on a spoof website called Trojan Games which parodied the Olympics but with adult content.

As a brand, Trojan has been successful in promoting safe sex campaigns and in launching merchandised products such as a clothing range. This has helped promote the safe sex message to protect people from unwanted pregnancies and sexually transmitted diseases. Trojan also have a varied range of condoms to suit each individual, but the marketing campaign that really promoted the brand was the introduction of the extra large condom, which is fifteen per cent larger than regular varieties.

Conversely, the female condom has not received any recognisable or specific branding strategies. As such, this type of condom has remained a less popular option for protection against pregnancy and sexually transmitted diseases even though it provides an even safer form of contraception by providing extra protection through increased genital coverage.
Female condoms were originally made from polyurethane and then nitrile rubber. This led to a reputation of having a distinctive crinkling sound during intercourse, which some people felt was off putting.

Despite this, manufacturers have continued to improve the design, recently turning to latex varieties. Without high profile branding however, the female condom is mostly promoted in communities where it is difficult to persuade men to wear protection rather than in communities where safe sex is achieved through mutual agreement.

There is no doubt that creating a marketing image has helped the success of major brands and helped tackle the often sensitive issue of safe sex. Branding helps get a product noticed, and done correctly it can encourage often image conscious young people to practice a healthier sexual lifestyle. Combined with ever more refined manufacturing techniques to improve the quality and sensation, condoms look set to stay as one of the preferred contraceptives for sexually active people of all ages.

Information about the Author:

Dom Donaldson is a family planning advisor. Find out more about Durex Condoms at www.condomcare.co.uk/22-c-durex-condoms.html

The Third Trimester: Getting Closer to Your Journey’s End

2010-02-18T12:15:00.000-08:00

The end is near and you begin counting the days to your due date. Again, fear does not go away since giving birth is another event to overcome on your way to motherhood. Like any other endings, the third trimester is a harbinger to a more exciting event in your life. With the remarkable developments in the last few weeks as pregnant mother, the last trimester is both an ending and a beginning – the end of the baby’s life inside your womb and the beginning of his journey outside as an individual. Anticipating for the birth of your child is also knowing what to expect during the last weeks of his stay inside you.

As you prepare for all baby materials for the coming of your child, your baby also gears up for getting out of the womb. Your baby needs to be equipped with a healthy and fully developed body that will help him survive the world outside. The baby continues to grow and gain weight with body systems achieving maturity. This can be the most uncomfortable moment for the mother since she begins to feel heavy and tired to move or walk longer distances. Fetal development continues while you care to complete your pregnancy planner before birth. The approaching of your due date is indicator enough that you have to practice movements or exercises that will ease up the act of giving birth especially those who are first-time mothers. For those who are planning to breastfeed, breastfeeding courses can be undergone by you to teach you of proper breast feeding techniques.

What to expect during the third trimester is that everything seems to achieve full growth potential. On week 28th, the fifteen-inch long baby is now capable to open and close the eyes and is able to sleep within 20-30 minutes. On week 29, the baby’s movement is more forceful than ever. This is because the bones are now fully developed which contribute to vigorous and frequent movements. On week 33 following the maturity of the eyes, the baby can now detect the presence of light. The 36th week is a moment to look forward to as baby learn to suck his thumb. The whole duration of the third trimester is your baby’s chance to make movements to prepare for the head down position. On the last week before your much-awaited due date, the placenta will provide your baby with antibodies to act as protection for the elements outside the womb.

The counting is nearly coming to end and you have already completed your pregnancy planner to guide you before, during and after giving birth. The end of the third trimester is now within your reach. Your baby is now a few a few moments away from your arms. Let a loving heart and a nurturing hand welcome him in his travel with you through life. What to expect with his birth can be more than the words you have at hand. Seeing him, touching him and loving him is all you can do to express your joy as the mother.

Like any other ending, the third trimester is the final stage to a more exciting event in your life. With the remarkable developments in the last few weeks as pregnant mother, the third trimester is both an ending and a beginning – the end of the baby’s life inside your womb and the beginning of his journey outside as an individual.

Information about the Author:

You can prepare for the end of your pregnancy and learn what to expect during the last trimester of pregnancy at Aha! Baby. You can also find a pregnancy planner at Aha! Baby that matches your needs to serve as your guide in welcoming your baby.

Stretch Marks After Delivery

2010-02-12T12:07:00.000-08:00

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Read About Beauty Tips Also Read About Pregnant Moms Gifts and Causes Of Shyness In Children

How to Track Your Baby’s Development

2010-02-04T12:20:00.000-08:00

For every expectant mother, knowing your child’s step by step development starting from conception does not only give you the chance to understand the changes that is happening to you but will also give you the a reason to look for ways you can take care of yourself and the baby inside. Having a pregnancy calendar will help you keep track of your baby’s development. You can always have a baby growth guide from your physician or from any other reliable sources in which you can compare and contrast the real life changes that you are experiencing. By doing so, you will be aware if your pregnancy is having deviations or not.

Your womb is considered your baby’s haven for nine long months. Whatever you take in will be readily welcomed in the womb. As you track baby’s development, you should also be careful about the food you take in. You should now avoid those intakes that can possibly bring about danger to your baby’s health. You have been subject to changes in the immune system that makes you sensitive to food-borne diseases. Refrain from taking in eggs, sushi and unpasteurized milk as you track pregnancy week. These foods may contain salmonella and other ill-inducing parasites. The safest possible intake for you and your baby are fish that have omega-3 which aids in the baby’s brain development. However, there are some variety of fish which you should not feel eating more than two meals a week because they are known to have mercury such as salmon, canned tuna and shrimp. Though this, you are ensuring a good health for you and your baby along with your close monitoring of your baby’s development week by week.

A pregnancy calendar will be very useful for every pregnant woman especially those first-time mothers. A calendar can put everything into place while knowing what happens to you and your baby every moment of your pregnancy. This calendar will also show you ultrasound pictures which will not only update you of your baby’s growth but will also inspire you to work out for more beneficial pregnancy activities. Ultrasound pictures of your infant can detect the positioning of your placenta and can assess health condition of the special baby inside you. Through the pictures, you will realize how each week of your pregnancy is significantly marked by wonderful changes inside.

While you track pregnancy week, you will know that every moment is crucial yet the first trimester of your pregnancy need to handle with extreme care. The first twelve weeks of your pregnancy will tell to be careful in handling activities because any simple accident can distort baby’s development. Although many birth defects sources cannot be traced, the mother will always have to blame herself for any handicap her child is entailed with at birth. When this happens, the mother tends to remember all the things she did during pregnancy that might be contributory to the defects. Let a pregnancy calendar be your way to achieving the best possible health condition for you and your baby. Monitor changes so when a deviation happens, your physician can remedy the problems at once.

Knowing what happens to your baby growing inside the womb will give you a good idea of what activities to engage in and what food to take in order to support his or her growth. The first few weeks are the most crucial in your baby’s development and caution and care should be taken by the pregnant mother during this important time.

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You can track you pregnancy development by using a pregnancy calendar readily available at Aha! Baby. You can also understand the changes in your body and the growth of your baby as you track pregnancy week by week information at Aha! Baby.

A Weekly Pregnancy Guide

2010-02-02T12:18:00.000-08:00

Every pregnancy is unique as every child carried in the womb has distinct needs and characteristics from the other. Pregnant mothers should seek the advice of people who are experienced and technically knowledgeable with the ins and outs of pregnancy. A weekly pregnancy guide of what happens to you and your baby will help you track the changes on your body, the development of your baby and exert extra effort in ensuring safety and health for you and your child. The most difficult question a mother must answer during pregnancy is this: “What am I supposed to do?” Uncertainties and doubts during pregnancy is usually brought about by the uniqueness of every individual condition although some general occurrences can be true to almost all mothers. Pregnancy symptoms for instance are almost true to anyone who have welcomed a soul inside their wombs. They may, however, vary in terms of degree or frequency or even effect to the mother and the child.

So, you are pregnant. What should you do? The first thing a pregnant woman should do is to celebrate! Getting pregnant is the best role for every woman in the world. The greatest achievement of a woman is to become a mother. No other success can compensate with the joy of having a baby and the wonder of carrying a new life inside your womb. Being pregnant is being aware that your primary responsibility is to keep your body ready for the new baby because whatever happens to you will affect the one inside you. It is then recommended that you are aware of the much pregnancy week information which can give you a detailed account of you and your baby’s progress. Every week for the mother is a week to look forward to because essential marks of growth can be visible. Sometimes you may find yourself tired of anticipating what happens next for your baby but if you are aware how important tracking your pregnancy is, you will never get tired of expecting something new.

Discovering that your baby from being an embryo to having developed distinct visible parts is more rewarding than receiving the most expensive you could ever have. Your weekly pregnancy guide is your partner in knowing what food to eat or what activities should you expect in order to ensure the best possible safety and health for your baby. Guidance on the foods you should avoid is essential. Seek advise from your parents or from those who are experienced in the field especially physicians. You can also browse through the internet websites that can provide you with pregnancy calendar that informs you of your child’s development.

Lastly, there are many pregnancy guides readily available for you. However, you should know that the success of your pregnancy can never be dictated by the doctor or the people around you. Your baby highly depends on you. The success of every pregnancy is dependent on how the mother views it and handles every delicate situation she will be into.

Every pregnancy is as different as every child developing in the womb is unique from another. However, there is nothing to be afraid of since older family members and friends and even the internet can provide you with information and guides to help you get through your pregnancy safely and comfortably.

Information about the Author:

Know the things you should do during pregnancy using a weekly pregnancy guide to aid pregnant mothers available at Aha! Baby. You can also be learn about the physical changes undergone by your baby from the pregnancy week information discussed in detail at Aha! Baby.

Meet The Most Important Mineral for Your Fertility

2010-02-02T12:10:00.000-08:00

Zinc is the most important mineral and antioxidant in pregnancy and preconception. It is required for foetal growth and development of muscles and bones. It reduces the risk of stretch marks, perineal tears, cracked nipples and it is necessary for immune function and brain formation.

82% of pregnant women world wide are deficient in zinc

A study found that 82% of pregnant women world wide are deficient in zinc. Low zinc levels in pregnancy have been linked to labour complications, low birth weight and premature delivery.

Fertility in men

Zinc is very important nutrient for male fertility and deficiency has been linked to low testosterone and low sperm count and motility. Sperm contains up to 5 mg of zinc per ejaculation, so it is very important for men to keep up their zinc levels. Studies have shown that zinc has been implicated in testicular development, sperm maturation, and testosterone synthesis.

Fertility in women

In women zinc plays a role in sexual development, ovulation, and menstrual cycle. Concentrations of zinc and folate may have substantial effects on reproduction. Zinc is also required for production of healthy eggs in women. Deficiency during pregnancy can lead to miscarriages and retarded development due to abnormalities in the chromosomes (DNA).

Longevity and Beauty

It is an anti aging mineral and is required for proper tissue repair and hormonal balance. When you are deficient in zinc, your body will go get some from your own reserves. It will start with tissues which cant hold onto it very well. They are the skin and hair. The result is flaky skin, stretch marks and hair loss. It is not surprising that many women develop stretch marks and report hair loss in pregnancy. Hair loss can be influenced by hormonal changes in the body but it is also a definite sign of zinc deficiency.

Multitasking Mineral

Zincs other roles include;

- Co factor of hundreds of enzymes, including enzymes involved in food digestion and absorption.
- Proper DNA replication and function.
- Regulates the pH of the cells (if cells are too acidic they are more prone to disease).
- Essential for vitamin A and folic acid metabolism and transportation
- Required for activation of T-lymphocytes (white blood cells required for cell mediated immunity) and making the natural killer cells more lethal then they already are.
- Controls release of insulin (hormone required for absorption of glucose, imbalance can lead to diabetes, insulin resistance, PCOS and infertility).
- Makes up one of the most potent antioxidants produced by the human body: Superoxide dismutase (SOD).
- Plays an important role in the health and flexibility of the connective tissue, skin and blood vessels.

Absorption

Zinc absorption can be impaired if you are taking antacids and proton pump inhibitors. It requires acidic environment for optimal absorption and is therefore best taken away from food on an empty stomach.

As it competes for absorption with other nutrients dont have it at the same time as your multivitamin. Zinc absorption is adversely affected by so many chemicals commonly found in natural food and it fights for absorption with so many other nutrients, not much of it ends up getting absorbed! Therefore zinc should be taken on an empty stomach last thing at night.

Deficiencies and Excesses

Vegans and vegetarians can be deficient in zinc as vegetables, fruits and grains are not optimal source of zinc. Phytic acid found in legumes will also block zinc and other mineral absorption. In addition smoking, drinking coffee, tea and alcohol increases your need for zinc.

Signs of zinc deficiency are loss of appetite, hair loss, white bands and spots on the nails, frequent colds and infections, slow healing wounds, stretch marks, dermatitis, diminished sense of smell and taste and premenstrual pimples and many more.

Excessive zinc consumption of 40mg/day may compete with copper and impair immune function.

How much to have?

Recommended daily intake of zinc is 8 mg/day for women, 11mg/day for men, 11 mg/day during pregnancy, 12 mg/day during lactation.

In men with sperm abnormalities 25-50 mg of zinc have been shown to increase sperm count and boost testosterone levels.

Where to get if from?

Lean meat, oysters, whole grains, nuts, pumpkin seeds, egg yolks, supplemental form: look for zinc acetate, the best tolerated and bioavailable form of zinc in a supplement. Stay clear from zinc oxide as its the least absorbent form of zinc!

Sources:

Ebisch IM, et al. The importance of folate, zinc and antioxidants in the pathogenesis and prevention of subfertility. Hum Reprod Update. 2007 Mar-Apr;13(2):163-74.

Groper S, Smith J, Groff J. 4th Ed. 2005. Advanced Nutrition and Human Metabolism. Thomson, USA

Keene, I. Natural Fertility Prescription, Australian Natural Therapeutics, Switzerland.

copyright 2009 Iva Keene and Natural Fertility Prescription

Information about the Author:

Leading Fertility Naturopath Iva Keene publishes the Ultimate Fertility ezine with tips to get you pregnant ASAP. Get your free Fertility advice at www.natural-fertility-prescription.com

Disclosing the Perfect Stranger: A Guide for Egg and Sperm Recipients

2010-01-25T12:13:00.000-08:00

One decision that is often overlooked in donor facilitated arrangements is the determination to disclose to future offspring their genetic origins. In the past this was always done anonymously and the secrecy continued over the course of a lifetime. However, recent studies on sharing genetic origins with offspring have proved that disclosure of genetic origin at a young age is healthy in maintaining a strong relationship and bond for all involved parties.

The three main factors that play into disclosure are does the child have an inherent right or need to know biological origins, and what is in their best interests? How disclosure impacts the recipient parents? And finally, when to disclose the information to offspring?

The best interests of child can be argued from both sides, a growing number of mental health professionals agree that a child has a fundamental right to know his biological origins. No one can predict if this medical information may be necessary in the event of a medical emergency or how access to this information may help an individual when he/she is ready to start their own family. It can be argued that this information is fundamental to an individual’s sense of self and personal identity. These values need to be analyzed on an individual basis consistent with thoughts and beliefs of that particular family unit. Maintaining secrecy can be difficult, especially family secrets. If discovered, by accident, the risks of impacting the relationships and family bonds could be jeopardized.

In a study performed by Lycett et al., (2004) the impact of disclosure was analyzed on families willing to share this information with their offspring. Out of 46 donor created offspring, 60% of the families had elected not to disclose genetic origins and the remaining 40% planned to disclose the child’s origins once the child reached adolescence. What was most interesting about this study is that between the two groups there were no differences between the disclosing and non-disclosing fathers. It was the non-disclosing mothers who reported a strain with keeping the secret. Thus, indicating that non disclosure impacts mothers more intensely than it impacts fathers. Many mothers fear the reaction from the child, and are concerned about placing a strain on the parent child bond. The study highlighted that these parental attitudes may in fact impact the parent-child bond as the children get older.

In contrast, a study performed by Van Berkel et al., (2007) in the Netherlands, where non-anonymous donation is standard and the only option available, investigated secrecy in open donation arrangements. Of the participants, the vast majority felt that origins of conception had no influence on their relationship with the child. The mothers did, however, show a greater level of concern about the disclosure plans and how the children would react to the information. Thus emphasizing the fear factor expressed by mothers is in the previous study. However when comparing being required to use open donation vs. anonymous donation, all mothers agreed that the genetic origin did not impact their familial relationships and or bonds with their children. The vast majority of the cases studied in the Netherlands, showed the children regarded the donor as an aunt or special family friend.

Disclosure is not something that occurs one time. Disclosure is a story that evolves over time and through a series of opportunities for parents to come to terms with their decision and to share with offspring the need to use donor gametes as well as the emotional decision that led them to this path. Disclosure involves the need to share that the importance of family and the need to become a family unit. The decision to disclose genetic origin greatly varies from family to family and is often impacted by the specific family unit, their structure and makeup, their religious, social and cultural values.

Finding the perfect stranger is hard work physically, emotionally and often spiritually. But in addition to identifying the perfect candidate, making the decision to disclose the biological connection involves a host of various feelings, emotions and considerations that may influence the type of donor you choose. When considering using a donor, it is important to consider how and if you plan to disclose to your offspring. The type of donor you choose may affect if, but also how and when you choose to disclose to your child their origin of conception since the donor you choose may play into the roles and relationships among parents, children and extended family.

Finally, it is essential to know when to make the decision to disclose genetic origins to offspring. Although there is no one right answer, recent data shows that sharing genetic origins with children at a young age is much preferred to divulging the information in adolescence. A recent study performed by Cambridge University researchers has found that disclosure of donor paternity at an early age lowers the likelihood of negative reactions from the offspring. The study findings published in the recent issue of Human Reproduction provides different perspectives regarding the response of the offspring depending on the age at which their biological origin is disclosed. Traditionally, donor conception has been treated with secrecy. A recent increasing trend towards openness of genetic origin has showed positive impact on children of all ages. In fact, most mental health professionals specializing in collaborative reproduction, encourage parental openness to reveal genetic origins to children as young as three years old. This trend can further be evidenced by the growing number of children books written about donor conception and geared for children between the ages of three and eight years of age.

Vasanti Jadva, from the Faculty of Social and Political Sciences, Centre for Family Research, University of Cambridge, UK, and colleagues, conducted a study which evaluated the difference in responses of children and adults, when informed about their genetic origin. The scientists analyzed the data obtained from anonymously completed online questionnaires by 165 members aged between 13 and 61 years, of the Donor Sibling Registry (a worldwide registry for donors).

The study results showed that, compared to offspring of heterosexual couples, children born to lesbian couples and single mothers received information about their donor conception at an earlier age. It was also noted that the mean age of disclosure was 14 years, with 19% of the offspring knowing about their paternity after the age of 18 years and 30% before three years of age. The study also showed that 38% of the offspring did not recall the exact age of disclosure since they were too young to remember.

Yet another study on donor conception conducted by Golombok et al. (1995), showed no adverse effects on child development or on familial relationships were evidenced when children were made aware of genetic origins at a young age. Yet, a higher incidence of negative feelings was reported among individuals who received information about their origin in adulthood compared to those who were informed about their genetic origin during childhood or adolescence.

In my years of experience working with hundreds of intended parent(s) who have conceived through donor gamete, I have found that many want to share openly with their children, but just don’t know where to begin. Disclosure can be uncomfortable primarily because it was not the pathway to parenthood of choice. I encourage my clients to focus on how fortunate they are to have access to advanced technologies and fertility treatments as well as a special donor who so generously and willingly gave of his/herself to share the essential piece necessary to conceive. This small shift in conjunction with a decisive disclosure plan and the knowledge that the psychological well being of the child and the family bond will not be severed, has enabled so many of my clients to come to the realization, “I am so fortunate today, to have my most wanted child, and so fortunate back then, to have the perfect stranger.”

Information about the Author:

Mindy Berkson’s, advocacy work affords clients an insider’s approach to navigating through the infertility process. Mindy utilizes nationwide resources to develop individualized and comprehensive plans, including relevant insurance and financing information, to help clients make informed decisions. For more information about Lotus Blossom Consulting, LLC, call toll free (877) 881-2685, email consultant@lotusblossomconsulting.com or visit them on the web at

Lessons on Drugs, Sickness and Living Life

2010-01-15T12:43:00.000-08:00

I love change. I love how we grow as individuals, when we allow it. Evolving and thinking about things from a different level - a higher perspective - is an incredible thing.

I think about how my thoughts and opinions have changed over the years. My core principles and belief system are steadfast. But how the details play out within those parameters has gained some flexibility, understanding, acceptance and even some appreciation.

I realize that the biggest events in my life in the past decade have taught different lessons in acceptance and connections as humans. My principles and beliefs, when it comes to health, don't need to be black and white. In fact, they don't serve as well when they are so dogmatic.

My first experience with this major shift in thinking occurred when I was pregnant with our first child. After years of studying the healthiest ways to experience pregnancy and give birth, I had created a very clear list of desires for my own pregnancy and childbirth experience. No doctors or nurses, no hospital or birthing center, no drugs, no shots, no fear-based tests, procedures or medical check-ups performed throughout my pregnancy, no inducing, no interference to what is natural... period! (Unless, of course, there was an emergency.)

There were a few more items on my list, but you get the point! I had clearly decided what was going to create the healthiest, safest experience for my baby and me. Thankfully, both our children were born at home, with everything going as nature intended. We were blessed with our experience.

But, not long before my first birth, I attended the birth experience of a dear friend whose child birth "wish list" was very similar to mine. After hours of birthing, her midwife decided that it was the right decision to head to the hospital where my friend ended up having an emergency C-section.

At first, she was distraught. This is not how she had envisioned her perfect birth. After awhile, she realized that the pregnancy and birth were just steps to bring her toward motherhood, and that was the prize! My mind shifted, too. Within reason, no matter what we choose during our pregnancies or birth experiences - whether it's conventional pre-natal care and birth in an operating room, surrounded by medical personnel, or it's the quiet care of a midwife and a nurturing home birth experience - we all become moms. Each mom needs to feel safe and secure in order to have a positive experience.

Yes, there are limitations of matter. There are tests, procedures and mindsets that are statistically proven to be less safe and effective for the mother and baby. But, I don't believe any parent would intentionally make the less safe, less healthy choices if they were aware of all their options. We make the best choices we can with the information available to us at the time, within our personal belief system.

We need to be proactive with our learning and take responsibility to insure the healthiest, safest outcome. Again, the road may look different for each of us, but the destination is the same.

The next big life event that opened my eyes and shifted my thinking happened when my dad was diagnosed with prostate cancer 8 years ago. By walking that walk with him, I discovered that cancer, or any other diagnosis, isn't a one-sided thing. Although I knew what treatments were absolutely dangerous and had unproven effectiveness, as well as many approaches that could help him, my eyes were opened to the importance of really hearing a 'patient's' wishes and fears.

Dad ended up choosing a more holistic approach to restoring health and he has done very well overall. In the past couple of years, he has had several medical procedures and treatments that have made me silently cringe and question the sanity of the 'health' authorities-that-be. But I now have a complete understanding, acceptance and respect for each person doing what feels right for them.

He did his homework and he was aware of all his options. What more can you ask for? If the patient feels confident and certain when it comes to their treatment and care, I believe the positive effects are immeasurable. Not all healing looks the same. Sometimes it's hidden behind a prescription bottle!

One of the biggest lessons for me came with my mom's journey with breast cancer. I'm so proud of the grace with which my mom walked her walk during this experience. Our experience with the cancer industry was not positive. But my mom rose above it all. When initially diagnosed, she chose a combination of conventional allopathic treatment as well as more holistic approaches.

She was ridiculed for choosing anything other than allopathic treatment and was ostracized for not following the oncologist's exact recommendations. My mom simply chose to live a high quality of life as long as she could, rather than spend months in the cancer ward receiving endless chemotherapy and radiation. It's a choice. It was her life and HER choice.

She did well and thoroughly enjoyed her life and her family for another couple years before things got really difficult. My mom, more than anyone, knew my heart. She knew how passionately I believe in creating health rather than attacking the body or any symptoms present. It was challenging for her to accept the allopathic treatment approach of drugs and surgery, because creating health and addressing the cause had become part of her belief system as well.

In the end, we had to see things from a different perspective. Although she and my dad and I still held out for a miracle, we knew we were no longer looking for a cure from the drugs she was being prescribed. We had to make the enormous mental, emotional and spiritual transition to creating whatever quality of life was still possible. It wasn't black and white - right and wrong. It was about this one lady, this one family, this one experience... and what it was going to take to give her some comfort and peace for her remaining weeks.

There was no judgment. No regrets. There certainly was some wishing that this had never happened, but we were willing to look at things through different lenses now - from a different paradigm. If there was ever a time to mask the symptoms and cover up the pain, this was it. We weren't trying to fix the cause of the problem anymore. We just wanted to be with mom and she just wanted a little more time to enjoy with us.

I learned that, although I'm not a fan of the misleading information regarding supposed cures and successful treatments being passed along in the cancer industry, that I do support each person's right to choose the approach that gives them the greatest peace of mind. That's giving a person respect and dignity. That's part of healing and living.

Without the drugs, I don't think we would have had those last couple of weeks with mom. Although those were some absolutely brutal days, they were also laced with exquisite moments of love, joy and pure spirit. I don't know if it was the right decision to take the drugs. Only God knows. What I do know is that there are a lot of families that just want a little more time.

My mom's experience taught me that a whole lot of living can take place in a very short period of time. Some people live an exceptional quality of life for only a short time, while others trudge along for a lifetime with no joy, no gratitude and not much quality of life. In mom's dying she taught me how to live.

Most recently, we're back to my dad. A recent bout with some rather life altering arthritis left him with the decision whether or not to take prescription steroids. He had the same concerns I have regarding the inherent dangers of this treatment option. Ultimately, he chose to begin a short stint with steroids to see if he could decrease some pain, restore any mobility and improve his quality of life.

It has been remarkable to see how quickly and thoroughly he is improving, from a symptom stand point. I don't like the idea of steroids, but then again, I don't like the idea of arthritis existing in the first place! And I certainly don't like the idea of my dad being incapacitated in any way.

This most recent experience with dad has demonstrated once again that we will all get to our destination by taking different paths. Some are less eventful than others. Some are more dangerous than others. Some allow you to enjoy the scenery, even though they might be a shorter trip overall. And, there are times when the drive was going along beautifully without any challenges, when things came to an abrupt and sudden conclusion.

We don't know how long we'll be here. We may be diagnosed with something 'big' only to live for many years. Or, we might live a short time... but we can truly enjoy and appreciate that time. For others, there may never be any indication of a health problem, yet tragedy may strike. I think the point is to LIVE life!

If you've been proactively taking steps to create health and happiness with consistency over time, but you've reached a wall due to limitations of matter, then you have some choices to make. Sometimes, that temporary symptomatic approach might be the best approach in order to give your body - and mind and spirit - any true chance of re-creating optimal health and happiness. Who am I to judge?!

I certainly don't recommend this approach or this paradigm as a way of life - creating health through wise lifestyle choices still makes good sense and comes with no negative side effects. But I openly acknowledge that there are times when this allopathic approach might provide options that give the best shot at living life while you're here!

Information about the Author:

Dr. Colleen Trombley ("Dr Mom Online") is a leading Health expert. See why so many turn to her for healthy living, nutrition, exercise, weight loss, raising healthy kids and stress management tips. Request your FREE report revealing Dr. Mom's formula for success at OptimalHealthReport.com

Facts and Information on Tubal Reversal Surgery and IVF

2010-01-06T12:39:00.000-08:00

For those women who have had their tubes tied and now longing to have more children there are two options available to them. In this article we will discuss In-vitro fertilization and tubal ligation reversal.

IVF is the general term for In-vitro fertilization and has assisted countless couples who, through various reasons, are unable to have a baby the ‘natural’ way. To describe it easily, an egg is taken from the woman and sperm from the man and the two are put together in a laboratory dish where they are fertilized. This is a form of assisted reproduction. Once the woman’s eggs have been fertilized, the embryo then gets transferred back into the womb and if all goes well a pregnancy will result

IVF is often the last option for many couples due to the costs and energy it involve. Women are offered IVF if their fallopian tubes are blocked, if they have been damaged for some reason and even for those who don’t have fallopian tubes. The success rate of IVF is about 30%. Many times couples have to undergo the treatment more than once before they get a successful. With this method there will be a lot of injections and other medical procedures to endure.

Couples can find plenty of fertility clinics available offering in vitro fertilization infertility treatments. Before a woman decide to go to a fertility clinic there are certain issues to think about: check out the success rate for the method, what technology they use and equipment provided, the expertise of the surgeons and of course how much the procedure will cost you.

If you are feeling over-whelmed by how much there is to do then there is another option available. Tubal reversal surgery is a cost effective procedure and has a high success rate for those women wanting to conceive after they have had their tubes tied. With pregnancy rates averaging 75%, tube reversal surgery is generally more popular than IVF where pregnancy rates average 30% and are be costly for each attempt.

One way to decide whether tubal ligation reversal is the best method for you is to contact a fertility clinic where a specialist will examine your operative report from your tubal ligation. The surgeon will be able to study your operative report from your tubal ligation and let you know how successful reverse tubal procedure would be for your situation.

For women who can’t get hold of their records they can visit a fertility clinic that will carry out a laparoscopy. This will let a surgeon see how healthy your fallopian tubes are and he will be able to estimate if a reversal would be successful. In most cases the fallopian tubes can be re-attached and the operation is successful.

There are a number of factors that will help in your effort at getting pregnant after a reversal procedure. These involve your age, as does any attempt to get pregnant. As you get older your chances of conceiving decrease whether you have had your tubes tied previously or not. Women under the age of 35 invariably find it easier to conceive than those older.

Another reason that might affect a woman’s chances of conceiving is how long ago it was she had the tubal ligation surgery. The longer you wait to have a tubal ligation procedure reversed will significantly reduce your ability to being able to conceive easily. This is due to the longer the time period the more damage will have been caused to your fallopian tubes; this can decrease the chances of the operation being successful.

Whichever option you decide on should depend on your personal circumstances and the advice given by your fertility specialist. For specialists in tubal ligation reversal, look online where you can find answers to most of your questions.

Information about the Author:

Michiel Van Kets provides article services for Dr. Gary Berger, who is widely known as the tubal reversal doctor with the most experience reversing tied tubes and tubal ligation and works in the Chapel Hill Tubal Reversal Center. For information and advice on tube reversal, tubal occlusion and tubal reversal doctors visit the website.

Find a Babysitter from New Zealand

2009-12-23T18:16:00.001-08:00

Babysitters, Special Needs Caregivers, Au Pairs, Home-helpers, Nannies from New Zealand
http://www.babysitme.co.nz/

in reference to:

"Babysitters, Special Needs Caregivers, Au Pairs, Home-helpers, Nannies"
- Babysitter, babysitting, childminding, Child-Minding & Special Needs Carers listing Directory (view on Google Sidewiki)

Your Guide to Emotional Recovery after Abortion

2009-12-20T12:37:00.000-08:00

Losing a child, especially through abortion, is not an easy thing to deal with. Women who go through abortion, for whatever reason, often suffer from bouts of guilt, depression, and sadness with the feeling of having lost something. There are a lot of things that might go on in the mind of someone who has had an abortion, and if these things go unresolved, it may cause that person to do certain things they wouldn’t normally do. Some of these things may include turning to substance abuse, like alcohol or drugs or even hurting oneself to help release the feelings of guilt, depression, and anger that may be coursing through their mind. Recovering emotionally as well as mentally from an abortion requires more than just trying to come to terms with what happened, it also requires a little help from people around you and from deep within yourself.

Getting Started

When you are faced with the fact that you had an abortion, you may sometimes want to hide from that reality by turning to things that might make you forget about your feelings like drugs or alcohol. These are just temporary reprieves from reality and after your “fix”, you find yourself faced with the fact that it did happen and the bad feelings you have about it are still there. There are others who, instead of trying to forget, want to remember and continuously punish themselves for what happened by constantly remembering. These actions do not work towards your healing and do not help you recuperate from the bad feelings you have about the abortion.

The first thing you need to do is to face the reality that it did happen and you have to learn to move on. One of the ways for you to come to terms with the pain of the loss or the feeling of sadness and guilt you might have over it is to find someone you can trust and share these feelings with. This should be a person you feel won’t judge you for what you have done and would be open to helping you get over these emotions you have about having an abortion.

Finding Someone to Share it With

Finding the right person to share this burden with is never easy. You might think that you can share this emotional burden you have over the abortion with your partner, your sister, your mom, or someone else close to you but then you might think that they will judge you harshly for what you did. If your partner was part of the decision to have the child aborted, is he the right person to talk to about these feelings? You need to ask yourself a few questions about your partner and your relationship before you can decide that he can share the emotional burden with you. Are members of your family close to you? Did they influence you to have the abortion in any way? You may need to find a person you know who will understand why you did what you did and not judge you for it and whether it is a friend, a neighbor or a professional, talking about it and facing it are the first steps to getting yourself to heal emotionally from the abortion.

Information about the Author:

Florida Abortion Clinic. Dr. James S. Pendergraft opened the Abortion Clinics Orlando in March 1996 to provide a full range of health care for women, including Florida abortion clinic, physical examinations, family planning, counseling, laboratory services and sexually transmitted disease screening and counseling.

Getting Help With Pregnancy By Way Of Home Insemination

2009-12-16T12:36:00.000-08:00

When most couples get married one of the things that most of them hope to have in the future is a family. It's not always possible for this to happen entirely naturally and so a growing number of women request IVF treatment so that they can become pregnant. Not many people know that it is now possible to have IVF treatment at home in the form of home insemination.

Some couples who really want a family may not be able to afford the usual form of IVF treatment, while others spend a small fortune. Home insemination is a much cheaper form of IVF treatment, which means that more people can afford to have it.

The fact of the matter is that the number of people who are completely infertile is actually quite small, for many other couples IVF treatment may mean that they can have the child or children they so desperately want.

If a couple is not able to have a child through the normal means of sexual intercourse, for a variety of reasons, then artificial insemination is a way of dealing with this. Artificial insemination takes the semen from the man and inserts it into the wife's genital tract in order for her to become pregnant.

This method is not always successful at first and so couples may have to have the treatment a number of times before it results in a pregnancy. In some cases the sperm has to be placed either in the neck of the womb, which is known as intravaginal insemination or it is sometimes placed inside the womb, known as intrauterine insemination. The method that is used for home insemination is the intravaginal method.

Some men have a problem with their sperm and then a sperm donor might be used, this may also happen if a lesbian couple want to have a child. Home insemination, like all artificial insemination methods should be carried out at the time of the woman's ovulation, which is during the menstrual cycle when the eggs are released as this is normally a woman's most fertile time.

Ovulation usually occurs fourteen days before the onset of a period, if a woman's periods are irregular then artificial insemination is more difficult. There are tests that can be done to find out when the most fertile period is likely to be.

If a couple is successful with IVF, in 90% of cases this is in the first five or six cycles, much beyond that and IVF may not be suitable. The home insemination method of intravaginal insemination is useful for couples who have problems in getting the sperm to the correct place.

Home insemination is quite cheap and you can get a kit for around $30. There are also basic kits that you can get for around $15. When you buy a home insemination kit you will find that it comes with all the instructions that you need. Women who are using the sperm of a donor need to ensure that the donor is first tested for HIV and other diseases before going ahead with it.

If you have problems with ovulation then it's possible to get products that help with this when they are used in conjunction with a home insemination kit. If you cannot afford the cost of IVF at a fertility clinic then this kit might be just the product that you need so that you can have the child or children you want.

Information about the Author:

Want to learn more about us and how you can get help with pregnancy, then come and check us out at www.insemination-help.com.

IVM CYCLE AND IVF CYCLE

2009-12-13T12:28:00.000-08:00

Dominant Follicle Diameter Helps Select Optimal Day for Oocyte Retrieval in IVM Cycles
In vitro maturation (IVM), a novel assisted reproduction technique, reduces risks associated with in vitro fertilization (IVF) as the eggs are retrieved, matured and fertilized in vitro prior to implantation, thereby eliminating ovarian stimulation. However, the factors predisposing the success or failure of IVM cycles are unclear. Now, a recent study published in the December issue of the journal, Human Reproduction suggests that dominant follicle (DF) size of =14mm at oocyte retrieval following human chorionic gonadotropin (hCG) priming improves pregnancy outcomes in cycles programmed for IVM treatment.
Weon-Young Son from the McGill University, Montreal, and coworkers conducted a study on 160 women with polycystic ovaries (171 cycles) to compare the DF size at oocyte retrieval after hCG priming with IVM outcome. When the endometrial thickness reached a minimal of 6 mm, the researchers subcutaneously administered 10,000 IU hCG, 35 to 38 hours prior to oocyte collection. The retrospective analysis was performed in 3 study groups based on the DF diameter: group 1, with a diameter of =10 mm; group 2, between 10 and 14 mm; and group 3 of >14mm. In the corresponding 3 groups, 6.9%, 10.6%, and 15.1% of the in vivo matured oocytes were collected, suggesting a positive correlation between the size and number of oocytes.
Results showed that among the sibling immature oocytes extracted in the 3 groups, the rates of IVM, fertilization and embryo development were similar. It was found that group 3 exhibited a lower clinical pregnancy rate (17.1%) compared to group 2 (40.3%). Furthermore, groups 1 (13.6%) and 2 (14.3%) had higher implantation rates than group 3 (4.9%). Based on the study findings, the researchers proposed DF =14mm as the optimal oocyte retrieval time for IVM cycles, as DF >14 mm may detrimentally affect the sibling immature oocytes.
Earlier, the same group of researchers conducted a retrospective study (Human Reproduction, 2008) to investigate if an extension in the time interval between hCG priming and immature oocyte retrieval enhances the oocyte maturation rate after IVM. The assisted reproduction technique was performed on 113 polycystic ovary syndrome patients (120 cycles) and the oocytes were collected at either 35 hours (group 1=76) or 38 hours (group 2 = 44) following 10,000 IU of hCG priming. The oocyte maturity was analyzed after the retrieval and the culture of the immature oocytes was performed till day 2 using IVM medium. It was found that the number of in vivo matured oocytes was considerably lower in group 1 (13.6%) compared to group 2 (7.3%). Also, group 2 exhibited a higher oocyte maturation rate after day 1 (46.3 vs. 36.0%), clinical pregnancy (40.9 vs. 25%) and implantation rates (15.6 vs. 9.6%) than group 1. Based on the findings, the scientists suggested that extending the time of hCG priming from 35 hours to 38 hours for oocyte retrieval could improve the pregnancy outcome of IVM cycles.
In vitro maturation of immature oocytes collected from unstimulated ovaries is an assisted reproduction technology that is extensively being studied. Some of the advantages of IVM over IVF are that it is less expensive, has shorter treatment regimen, and does not require the use of hormonal fertility drugs for ovarian stimulation. It may thereby eliminate the risk of developing ovarian hyperstimulation syndrome and multiple pregnancies.
Several previous studies have indicated that controlled ovarian stimulation in combination with in vitro fertilization cycles provide better results compared to in vitro maturation techniques. Now, the identification of the optimal hCG priming time and dominant follicle size for oocyte retrieval may help in enhancing the success rates of the novel IVM technique with fewer adverse effects compared to IVF.

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Your Eggs and Sperm Can't Live Without This Wonder Oil

2009-12-10T12:26:00.000-08:00

Imagine building a house without some of the essential materials. Well it simply wouldnt work, it would be leaky, drafty, insufficiently insulated, and would probably collapse during the first storm.

Our cells are no different to a house. They all have a blueprint (DNA) and are meant to be constructed according to the plan. However when the body makes a request for a particular nutrient to complete the cell construction, it gets a message that the reserves are empty or being held only for the key organs, needed to keep you alive.

One of those essential nutrients are Essential Fatty Acids: Essential because our body cant make them, so we need to get them from food. Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are necessary for;

- Normal brain and nervous system function
- Visual acuity and cognition
- Hormone and prostaglandin regulation
- Healthy placental growth
- Brain and liver development in the foetus

The central nervous system starts to develop 21 days after conception; because of this it is essential that the mothers reserves are optimal before conception.

EFAs are also very important for;

- The health of breasts and mammary glands
- Growth of the uterus in the mother

EFAs can protect against SIDS (sudden infant death syndrome) and post natal depression and have been found to be effective in the treatment of endometriosis, heavy periods, cramping and mild depression. Deficiency has been linked to male infertility and can lead to congenital malformations and spontaneous abortions.

Omega 3 and 6 are known as EFAs. Omega 6 is readily available in food (nuts and seeds and vegetable oils) but Omega 3 is harder to come by and the need for Omega 3 increases during pregnancy and lactation.

Omega 3 fatty acids (EPA and DHA), are the building blocks of membranes of all cells in the body, and precursors of eciosanoids, hormones important in the prevention and treatment of many diseases, especially in women.

For example period cramps a.k.a. dysmenorrhea, stem from disturbed balance between anti-inflammatory and pro-inflammatory hormones. By increasing the intake of omega 3 fatty acids your period cramps can vanish.

I speak here from first hand experience. As a teenager, I couldnt leave the house without a Ponstan (a painkiller) on the first day of my period.
When I learned at college about omega 3s I started taking the supplement every day and within 2 cycles I never had to use Ponstan again, my cramps were gone.

Studies have shown that omega 3 fatty acids;

- Facilitate pregnancy in women with infertility problems by increasing uterine blood flow.

- Promote fetal growth by improving placental blood flow.

- Lower the risk of premature birth, by increasing the length of pregnancy and birth weight.

- Facilitate the childs brain development.

- Prevent preeclampsia (high blood pressure in pregnancy).

- Prevent postpartum depression.

- Prevent menopausal problems.

- Prevent postmenopausal osteoporosis.

- Prevent breast cancer.

- Lower bad cholesterol (LDL) and increase good cholesterol (HDL). This is especially
important for women receiving hormone therapy, which can increase bad cholesterol.

Buyer Beware

When buying Omega 3 Fish oils, you need to make sure the product;

1. Contains antioxidants to prevent the oil from oxidizing and going rancid
(a.k.a. lipid peroxidation).
2. Has been tested for mercury, dioxin and polychlorinated biphenyls (PBCs), and
meets the established safety limits.

Fish that live a long time (e.g. swordfish, shark and tuna) have a longer time to accumulate environmental toxins. Try to make sure your fish oil comes from wild sardines or wild salmon.

What we all need to be mindful of, is, the ever increasing demand for the ocean fish reserves. Studies have shown, worldwide, the demand for wild fish is now greater than the ocean can supply and projections suggest complete reliance on aquaculture (farmed fish) by 2050.

A solution to this problem is oil from Krill, an abundant zooplankton found in the Antarctic waters. Krill is eaten by whales and other fish. It possesses a fatty acid profile comparable with fish oils. It is a more sustainable solution comparable to fish oils.

How much do you need?

The recommended therapeutic dose of Omega 3 (RTD) is 1000mg three times per day, with food. Never have them on an empty stomach, as they wont absorb properly.

How do you store it?

In the fridge.

If you get fishy burps, you can put it in the freezer and have the capsules frozen, this way they will thaw out in your small intestines instead of your stomach.

Food Sources

Deep sea fish, wild salmon, red snapper, wild trout, herring, halibut, sardines, walnuts, almonds, nuts, seeds, flaxseed oil (only 20% gets converted into the active form), grass fed meat, hemp seed oil.

References

1. Arthur, R.Omega-3 Sources. The Journal of Complementary Medicine, May/June 2009 Vol 8 No 3.
2. Saldeen P, Saldeen T. Women and omega-3 Fatty acids. Obstet Gynecol Surv.2004 Oct;59(10):722-30; quiz 745-6.
3. Keene, I. 2008. Natural Fertility Prescription, Australian Natural Therapeutics,Switzerland.

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Leading Fertility Naturopath Iva Keene publishes the Ultimate Fertility ezine with tips to get you pregnant ASAP. Get your free Fertility advice at www.natural-fertility-prescription.com

What You Need To Know About Sperm Antibodies

2009-12-01T12:21:00.000-08:00

20% of all cases of infertility are due to mutual infertility, and 20% due to unexplained infertility. Combined, that's nearly half of all the cases of infertility!

If the woman is ovulating, doesn't have blocked tubes, hormonal imbalances or other reproductive system conditions, and, the man has normal sperm parameters, what's the problem?

Why can't they get pregnant?

1. Presence of sperm antibodies
2. Toxic mucus
3. Food intolerances

The first test you should consider is a post-coital test. This test will show how many sperm are still alive after intercourse in the woman's reproductive system.

If the woman has sperm antibodies in her mucus, or has overly acidic mucus due to toxin overload in the body then the sperm will not fare well and their minutes (not days) will be numbered.

Channels of elimination

You see, your body will rely on all possible channels of elimination when it comes to getting rid of toxins. They are mostly mucus and discharge producing organs such as the nose, lungs, skin, kidneys, gut, vagina and penis.

This is where detoxing comes into the picture. Each couple, regardless of whether you are infertile or not should consider detoxing before conception.

Heavy metals exposure has a detrimental impact on the immune system, especially on autoantibody production which can lead to infertility in susceptible individuals. One study found that patients with mercury allergy had more antisperm antibodies than patients without the mercury allergy. (Neuro. Endicronol. Lett. 2005)

Food intolerances and sperm antibodies

If the immune system is in overdrive (due to constant exposure to food you are intolerant to) it can adversely react to your partner's sperm and /or fertilized egg and destroy it. This can lead to creation of antibodies to your partner's sperm and can predispose you to miscarriages and still births.

In the case of food intolerances you will not necessarily know you've got one until you do a proper blood test or you simply eliminate the food from your diet and wait to see if the symptoms go away. It can take up to 3 months for the immunocomplexes (antibody and antigen sticking together) to clear from your system.

Our body is one closed circuit. Everything that enters your body: through air that you breathe, food and drinks you consume or lotions and potions you rub on your skin will affect every single cell in your body! It all ends up in your blood. Your blood carries it though kilometers of blood vessels from the biggest aorta to the tiniest capillaries barely visible to the eye. Just think about that, for a second.

And the next time you want to consume something you know is not healthy just remember the closed circuit and know that it won't just come out without leaving any damage behind.

Sperm Antibodies in the mucus

If the woman's mucus contains sperm antibodies, more than just a detox is required. Studies have shown that women can develop antisperm antibodies if sperm has come into contact with the mucosal or systemic immune system. This can happen if there are minor wounds in the vagina, rectum or the oral cavity. Sperm antibodies in cervical mucus cause the heads of the sperm to stick to the cervical mucus.

To treat sperm antibodies in the mucus you'll need to use condoms for 3-6 months while the woman's immune system is addressed with diet, nutritional supplements, herbs and other complementary medicine treatments as required.

During the 3-6 month period, because the woman didn't come into contact with the sperm, the present antibodies to sperm will be broken down and no new ones will be produced.

This is also a very beneficial time to learn about timing your most fertile days!

Then you remove the condom and have intercourse at the most fertile time to conceive. This will not allow enough time for your body to produce new antibodies. Also after having your immune system treated and retrained during those 3-6 months it is likely that your immune system would not react again.

If the woman has sperm antibodies in her blood and not just the mucus, than just relying on the condom will not be enough and a longer immune system treatment may be required.

Men can have sperm auto antibodies

Autoimmunity results from the abnormal immune response against the body's own tissue. Men can develop antibodies against their own sperm. This can cause the sperm to agglutinate (or stick together) or cause the tails of the sperm to stick to the cervical mucus.

Autoimmunity of any kind often derives from childhood or even earlier development in the womb. If the mother was consuming foods she was intolerant to during her pregnancy, then her antibodies influenced what type of immune system dominance the child will have.

The immune system is fascinating in that it needs to learn the ropes. Unlike the other cells in the body it intimately interacts with our environment everyday.

If you have an inflamed gut, due to a bacterial or parasitic infection or as a result of food intolerance, large molecules from food will enter the sterile environment behind the gut, through the gaps between the cells. Once they are in the area of the body they are not meant to be in, the immune system will pick them up and treat them as invading pathogens. Now that the immune system has been exposed to this substance once, it'll produce a whole army of antibodies against this food. So now each time you eat this food, they'll attack. Overtime this will exhaust the immune reserve, making it less robust when it comes to bacteria, viruses and cancers and more hypersensitive to its own tissue and innocuous substances such as pollen and food.

This starts a viscous cycle if the food intolerance is not picked up upon and treated naturopathically.

If as a child you were not breastfed, than you may have missed out on your mother's antibodies and this may have predisposed you to an immune system that is overly reactive. If, on the other hand you mother has many allergies, then you can consider yourself lucky for not having been breastfed.

Also if you grew up in a super clean and sterile environment, your immune system didn't have any bugs to learn from. Some childhood diseases and contact with dirt as a kid are very beneficial for the immune system. They teach your immune system what sort of antibodies it should be producing, so it's less likely to attack food molecules or your own tissue.

The good news is that the immune system can be retrained in three easy steps;

1. Remove the triggers for 3-6 months or longer, depending on the severity.
2. Heal the inflammation and the mucosal surfaces, with the right nutrients and diet.
3. Treat the immune system with adequate protein intake, a clean and pure diet, nutritional supplements, probiotics and herbs. Key nutrients to consider are vitamin C, zinc, selenium, vitamins E and A (or betacarotene), omega 3, and herbs such as Panax ginseng, Echinacea, Hemidesmus, Astragalus, Withania and Saw palmetto.

In this article we looked the causes of sperm antibodies and touched on unexplained infertility as it relates to food intolerances. There are plenty of other environmental influences that can contribute to unexplained infertility. Natural fertility treatment for sperm antibodies consists of abstinence from the triggers, dietary and lifestyle adjustments and nutritional and herbal support for the immune system. Once you truly grasp the interconnectedness of all body systems you'll understand why and how what you eat, drink and breathe can make all the difference to your fertility.

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Leading Fertility Naturopath Iva Keene publishes the Ultimate Fertility ezine with tips to get you pregnant ASAP. Get your free Fertility advice at www.natural-fertility-prescription.com

The Facts Behind IVF Treatment

2009-11-27T12:31:00.000-08:00

The number of people undergoing In Vitro Fertilisation (IVF) looks set to increase as greater numbers of women turn to specialist fertility treatment in the hope of becoming a parent.

The most recent figures from the Human Fertilisation Embryology Authority (HFEA) show the number of patients undergoing IVF rose to nearly 35,000 in 2006, up 5 per cent on the previous year. This number is likely to rise even further following the decision by some healthcare trusts to offer up to three IVF treatment cycles on the NHS.

So what does IVF involve?
IVF involves removing eggs from a woman and fertilising them with her partner's sperm in a laboratory. Once embryos have formed, they are placed inside the womb in the hope of achieving a pregnancy. IVF is recommended for women with a number of conditions including unexplained fertility problems and blocked fallopian tubes.

In order to produce more eggs than a normal cycle and improve the chances of success the ovaries are stimulated using fertility drugs. This usually involves injections for around 12 days. During the stimulation phase, a series of ultrasound scans are used to monitor the number and growth of ovarian follicles and the development of the lining of the uterus. The eggs are then collected using a special needle guided by ultrasound. The procedure is usually carried out under heavy sedation but sometimes a general anaesthetic is required.

The next step of the IVF process moves into the laboratory where the sperm sample is assessed. Once the embryologist has selected the most active sperm, they are then placed with the eggs and put in an incubator overnight.

The fertilised eggs (embryos) are then cultured for between two and five days in the laboratory before being transferred into the uterus. The best one or two embryos are selected for transfer either two to three days after egg collection or cultured further until day 5 (Blastocyst transfer). Any other good quality embryos may be stored by freezing (cryopreservation) for possible transfer at a later date.

Sometimes, where the male partner has a low sperm count and/or poor motility or couples have experienced previous failure of fertilisation during IVF a procedure called Intracytoplasmic Sperm Injection (ICSI) is used. According to the HFEA, ICSI is used in nearly half of all IVF treatment cycles.

IVF success rates
The prospect of IVF can seem daunting for those desperate to conceive. However, according to the latest available statistics from the HFEA, nearly 35,000 women in the UK underwent IVF in 2006 with over 44,000 treatments taking place. From these treatments over 12,500 babies were born.

On average, one in four pregnancies from IVF results in a multiple birth; this can lead to health complications for both the mother and her children. As such, there is a movement towards clinics electing to implant only one embryo in order to reduce the multiple birth rate while maintaining the chances of conception.

Other treatments to combat infertility
One in seven couples trying for a baby experience delays in conceiving, often without finding out a reason why they cannot reproduce. However, there are a number of known causes of infertility (eg poor sperm count, polycystic ovaries) - and therefore a number of different treatments are on offer at IVF clinics to help combat the problem.

Other procedures include intrauterine insemination (IUI), egg donation, assisted hatching, embryo freezing and frozen embryo transfer to name a few. Since Louise Brown, the first IVF baby, was born in 1978 more than three million babies have been born from this procedure and other assisted reproductive treatments.

Thirty years on, advances in techniques, combined with additional funding from the NHS, has ensured the numbers conceiving rises year on year, with an increasingly successful outcome for many.

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Dom Donaldson is an IVF expert. Find out more about IVF at www.isisfertility.com

Best Human Embryos Selected For IVF Using Mathematical Model For infertility Treatment

2009-11-19T12:30:00.000-08:00

From the images taken with the microscope, the scientists were able to measure and classify the zygotes and embryos, as well as the blastomeres (undifferentiated animal cells produced by the division of the zygote), their degree of fragmentation and the thickness of the ‘zona pellucida', a membrane that surrounds them. (Credit: Morales et al / SINC)

A team of researchers from the University of the Basque Country (UPV-EHU) have developed a mathematical classification which makes it possible to select human embryos for use in assisted reproduction treatments. Scientists have used the morphology of embryos to select the best candidates for implantation in the woman's uterus.

"Up to now experts working in in vitro fertilisation have selected the best embryos subjectively, based on their training and experience", so SINC was informed by Dinora A. Morales, from the Intelligent Systems Group at the UPV-EHU. However, in two studies carried out by researchers from this team the use of mathematical classifiers to help embryologists with that task was looked at.

In the first work, published in the journal Computer Methods and Programs in Biomedicine, the scientists presented an "intelligent system" of support for infertility treatments. For this they used information from 63 cases from the infertility programme at Clínica del Pilar in San Sebastian (Guipúzcoa), and analysed the evolution of trios of embryos (Spanish law allows for the transfer of up to three embryos to a woman's uterus).

To prepare the study, the researchers focused on the case history of infertile couples (age, type of infertility, quality of sperm, etc), as well as the morphological characteristics of the zygote (the resulting cell from the fusion of two gametes) and the embryos.

From the images taken with the microscope, the scientists were able to measure and classify the zygotes and embryos, as well as the blastomeres (undifferentiated animal cells produced by the division of the zygote), their degree of fragmentation and the thickness of the ‘zona pellucida', a membrane that surrounds them.

All this information was processed with Bayesian classifiers, so-called due to the application of Bayes rules, which make it possible to calculate the probability of implanting an embryo in a woman's uterus if transferred there. "What's more, these types of mathematical classifiers provide experts with evidence on what embryo characteristics enable the identification of the most ideal embryos, through the selection of variables", explained Morales.

The results of this study indicate that the size and degree of fragmentation of the blastomeres, thickness of the zona pellucida and the fact that they might have various nuclei are some of the aspects embryologists should concentrate on.

The Basque research group also carried out a second study, published in the journal Computers in Biology and Medicine to check the effectiveness of different Bayesian classifiers as a tool for choosing the best embryo.

The researchers analysed 249 photographs of embryos from the database at the Genesis Centre in Rome (Italy) and discovered that the "wrapper-TAN" classifier had a success rate of over 90%.

The team's next lines of work will concentrate on perfecting these techniques for selecting the best embryo in infertility treatments and in predicting multiple pregnancies, due to the risk they pose to women. The scientists will try to collaborate with other hospitals in this task.

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Implantation of a fertilized human EGG IN AN IVF PROCEDURE For Infertility Couple

2009-11-06T12:29:00.000-08:00

As hopeful moms-to-be learn, there are important considerations to the successful implantation of a fertilized human egg. A calm environment, regular hormonal injections and the timing of the implantation can all affect the outcome of an in-vitro procedure.

Now a Tel Aviv University researcher is suggesting that prospective parents and their obstetricians also look at the role that gravity and other biomechanical processes play in its success. New studies by Prof. David Elad from TAU's Department of Biomedical Engineering could help desperate couples give birth to healthy single babies - and avoid the risk of multiple births at the same time.

"I am specifically studying how the uterus contracts before the embryo implants itself onto the uterine wall," he says. These contractions play a vital role in keeping the embryo in the uterus, and knowledge of its mechanics can indicate the optimal time and site for implantation. Physical positioning of the woman and the shape and size of her uterus also affect the results of IVF implantation, Prof. Elad says.

His recent publication in the journal Fertility and Sterility suggests methods to enhance the success rate of fertility treatments.

The Gravity of the Situation

"We are all subject to the Earth's gravity forces, and all biological process must also obey Newton's basic laws of physics," says Prof. Elad, who has been studying the biomechanical engineering of pregnancy for over 15 years. "Uterine contractions push the fluid inside a woman's womb in a peristaltic fashion, which helps sperm reach the ovum in the fallopian tube. And after fertilization, this same peristalsis propels the embryo to its implantation site in the uterine wall. It's a fluid mechanics issue.

"By thinking about these biomechanical processes during IVF treatments, we can help physicians, and prospective parents, see better outcomes," he says. The chance of finding an optimal uterine position could be improved through Prof. Elad's recommendations.

"There is no such thing as a standard uterus," Prof. Elad adds. "Our research offers best practices for women of all shapes and sizes."

Avoiding Multiple Birth Dangers

To increase the chances of a successful IVF implantation, women can opt for three or more viable embryos to be implanted in the womb during one cycle. Many, emotionally and financially exhausted, take this chance even if it means an embryo will need to be sacrificed to ensure the health of another. Prof. Elad's research may spare women from having to make this difficult ethical decision.

"Besides recent reports that IVF babies are slightly more prone to genetic diseases, there is a general notion that when there is more than one embryo in the uterus, all the fetuses are subjected to risks of mild and sometimes severe medical problems in the future," says Prof. Elad. "Parents naturally want to avoid this circumstance."

New Tools for IVF Specialists

Through advanced bioengineering research, Prof. Elad, who is currently a visiting professor at New York's Columbia University, is continuing to provide "stimulating evidence" to the IVF medical community. He is working on a computer simulation program on embryo transport in the uterus, in both natural conception or after IVF procedures, to model how and when artificially inseminated embryos should be implanted in the uterus.

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How to recognize common or unexpected early pregnancy signs

2009-11-02T12:34:00.000-08:00

Recognizing and handling early pregnancy symptoms can become a daunting task unless you provide yourself with detailed information about this situation. Pregnancy can be signaled by common or unexpected signs and you will have to learn how to deal with them in order to stay healthy and welcome your new born baby. Pregnancy is not to be regarded as a source of constant worries and fears. On the contrary, you should relax and learn how to cope with its pleasant or unpleasant signs. But even the most common early pregnancy signs are likely to be related to other causes and you will have to pay a visit to your doctor in order to find out the truth. For instance, you are very likely to experience severe fatigue because the body will be overwhelmed by the constant hormonal changes.

You will have to adapt to these situations in order to stay healthy. The breast tenderness is among the most common early pregnancy symptoms because you will begin to get ready for the future motherhood. Your breasts will change their texture. They will become softer because they are preparing for the future milk production. Even so, the breast tenderness can also be related to other causes such as a sign of impending and severe menstruation. Therefore, you will have to check the real cause of your breast tenderness in order to find out whether you are pregnant or not. Vomiting and nausea are also among the most common early pregnancy signs and they should be taken seriously in order for you to find out their real cause and their effects. These symptoms will be experienced by every woman who is in her first trimester.

They are likely to be quite persistent and you may also experience strange and strong food cravings. You will have to deal with these cravings because they are likely to be quite demanding. For instance, a food that you hate eating before getting pregnant may appear as an irresistible dish right now. Regardless of the nature of these symptoms, you must pay a visit to the doctor in order to find out their real cause. Actually, it is imperative for you to pay a visit to your doctor as soon as you notice something unusual or suspect. He is the one who can provide you with the necessary help and prescriptions in order to keep your unborn baby healthy. Early prenatal care is of paramount importance and you should become aware of the fact that the early pregnancy symptoms are here in order to help you to monitor your baby’s health.

Still, these symptoms may vary from one woman to another and you will have to take proper care of your pregnancy by paying attention to these extremely useful signals. These signals will tell you the truth about your unborn baby’s condition and you can rely on them in order to find out whether she is in danger or not. Your body is designed in order to signal everything that does not go according to the natural plan. So, you need to learn how to listen to your body and pay attention to what it is saying to you. You have to trust your instincts. Your intuition is your best friend when it comes to interpreting the early pregnancy signs. The rest is up to your medical care provider because he is the one who can assist you and provide you with the natal care that you need.

But you can also experience some unusual early pregnancy signs that you must report to your doctor in order to get the necessary help. For instance, you can experience the so-called spider veins. You will have to deal with veins appearing on your upper arms and chest and you have to be prepared for them and consult the doctor in order to learn more. The spider veins are the direct result of the increased blood pressure and you should not worry about this symptom. You can also have to deal with the nose congestion because this symptom may be found among the unusual signs that can affect a pregnant woman. You may also experience metallic taste in your mouth, production of excessive saliva, severe cramping in your legs, flatulence, facial hair and increased pigmentation of your skin.

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The early pregnancy signs may be common or unexpected. Therefore, you will have to prepare yourself for a wide range of early pregnancy symptoms

Find Out What You Can Do to Increase Your Chances of Getting Pregnant

2009-10-18T12:03:00.000-07:00

Getting pregnant seems to be very simple for some while some may be trying very hard to be one. If you are one of those who want the natural ways to get pregnant, do not lose hope. There are still options for you to have a baby.

The natural ways to get pregnant require an understanding on how your reproductive cycle works and timing is important. It is also important to note that getting pregnant naturally may be a cheaper option to conceive but it also needs time and attention to achieve success with it.

Understanding when you are most fertile is essential in achieving success in getting pregnant. Each month, an egg is released from the ovary to prepare for a possible fertilization, and it is this time that conception can occur when a man's sperm swims into the uterus to meet with the egg - and this is the period that you should be paying attention to.

Proper Timing of Sexual Intercourse

If you have regular menstrual cycle of 28 days, the release of the egg in the ovaries or the ovulation usually starts 14 days after the start of your last period. This is your most fertile period and having sex at this period will increase your chances of getting pregnant. Timing may however be difficult if you have an irregular menstrual cycle.

Getting your basal body temperature can also be a way to determine if you are ovulating, as there will be a slight increase in your body temperature when ovulation begins. You can also detect ovulation by the nature of the cervical mucus. When there is increases cervical mucus and it becomes clear and has similar consistency with an egg white, it could be a sign of your fertile period. A more convenient ovulation predictor kit can also be purchased to conveniently determine your fertile days.

Maintaining Proper Weight

Your weight can also be a factor in your likelihood to get pregnant easily. If you are overweight, it may cause problems with your ovulation and thus resulting to infertility. If you are also underweight, it can also lead to skips in your menstrual period which is also a problem in your being fertile. Maintaining a proper body weight is indeed important if you want to conceive naturally.

Having a Healthy Lifestyle

Aside from maintaining the proper body weight, one of the natural ways to get pregnant is to improve your fertility by having proper nutrition. A healthy diet, good exercise and managing stress are essential in achieving a healthy body that maximizes your fertility. Avoid caffeine as it can also affect your fertility. Smoking and alcohol may not only decrease your chances of conceiving but can also cause birth defects if you eventually become pregnant.

Choosing a sex position

For some couples, sex position matters when you are trying to conceive. Helping the sperm reach the cervix could also be a factor in getting pregnant. Sex positions with the woman on top may be giving the sperm a hard time to travel to the cervix, as well as sitting or standing positions. Elevating your hips with a pillow underneath also helped some couples.

The natural ways to get pregnant may seem so simple but sometimes there are infertility issues that we may never have known. If you have been trying to get pregnant for about a year you can also opt to consult your Ob-gyne for other possible factors that hinder your pregnancy.

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Carolyn Anderson loves to share tips in addressing women's issues. To learn more about getting pregnant naturally, check out this www.dp-db.com/personal-path-to-pregnancy. Also check out www.dp-db.com/pregnancy-without-pounds to find ways to be a healthy and sexy mom.

Increasing Your Chances to Get Pregnant

2009-10-16T12:03:00.000-07:00

Your fertility is a major factor to watch out for if you want to get pregnant easily. Your health, the proper timing of sexual intercourse, your body weight, even the sex position matter if you are considering ways on how to get pregnant naturally.

Of course, it takes two to tango so it would also help to check the fertility of your partner to maximize your chances of conceiving. If you want to maximize your chances with your own efforts, the natural means is always a good and inexpensive option. Here are some ways that may help you on how to get pregnant naturally.

* Monitor your monthly period. This way you can determine your most fertile days and the best time to engage in sexual intercourse.

* Monitor your ovulation through basal body temperature or cervical mucus. You can do it manually or you can find ovulation kits to help you determine if you are ovulating.

* Have regular sex. Regular sex for sure can increase your chances of hitting a fertile period. One of the best ways on how to get pregnant naturally is to have sex daily during the fertile period. That for sure will give you good chances in conceiving.

* Maintain a good body weight. Obesity could be a factor of non-fertility thus you should shed those extra pounds to allow yourself to conceive.

* Exercise. Exercising is not only good for a body who wants to conceive but also for your total health. Make sure though that you are not doing it excessively as excessive exercise can also cause you to skip your menstrual period, thus absence of ovulation.

* Have a healthy diet. Aside from getting benefits for your overall health, there are also food that may increase fertility. Oysters are the best example, as they are rich in zinc that enhances your fertility as well as you partner's.

* Avoid alcohol. Alcohol has adverse effects on your fertility and can also affect sperm quality and quantity in men. So avoid it.

* Avoid caffeine, chocolates and soda. Studies have shown that increased caffeine in the body can reduce your chances of getting pregnant as the stimulant may affect your ovulation, start getting rid of coffee as soon as possible.

* Quit smoking. Not only will this affect your fertility, it can also cause birth defects on your baby.

* Reduce stress. Stress and even being desperate to conceive can affect fertility too. Some studies have shown that pregnancy is likely to occur when couples are relaxed and stress-free. Stay happy and avoid negative emotions.

* Be safe from sexually transmitted diseases. Sometimes the culprit of not being able to conceive are health issues like sexually transmitted diseases. Practice good hygiene and be loyal to your partner to prevent STDs.

* Take your vitamins. There are certain vitamins that are essential if you want to conceive a baby. Folic acid, iron and calcium are among these. You can always ask your OB-gyne for guidance on what you need to supplement your current health.

* Opt for a better sex position. If you can help the fertilization process by helping the sperm get to its destination, you can do it by choosing a better sex position. Avoid sitting and standing positions as well as positions with you on top.

* Watch your medications. Some medication can affect your chances to conceive, so if you are trying to get pregnant, always consult your doctor for prescription and advice.

These are just some of the ways on how to get pregnant naturally. It will of course need time, effort and patience but all these will pay off in the end if you will finally have that cute little baby in your arms.

Information about the Author:

Carolyn Anderson is a book reviewer and a wide reader. If you want to have a complete guide on getting pregnant naturally, she recommends www.dp-db.com/personal-path-to-pregnancy. She also recommends www.dp-db.com/miracles-do-happen, where you can find a way to get pregnant naturally.

After Birth, Should You Return to Work?

2009-10-14T12:00:00.000-07:00

Pregnancy: After Birth: Should You Return to Work?

Are you a woman who has just recently had a baby? If you are, congratulations! The birth of a new child is a fun, adventurous, and memorable experience. Although work may be the farthest thing from your mind right now, it is something that you may want to take the time to think about. After having a baby, a large number of women wonder whether or not they should return to work.

When it comes to determining if you should return to work after having a baby, there are a number of important factors that you will want to take into consideration. For many women, money is an issue. How is your current financial situation? Before your baby was born, were you relying on one or two incomes? This simple question may play an important role in your decision. Many women are able to stay at home with their children if they have another source of income, like a regular paycheck from their spouse or live in partner.

Although money may be an issue for you, when determining if you should return to work after the birth of your child, it is also important to examine the money that you may save. As a parent, you likely wouldn’t send your child to just any daycare center. Unfortunately, daycare providers that come highly rated and recommend often have high fees. It is not uncommon for parents to pay one hundred dollars or more a week in childcare expenses, just for one child. It is also important to examine the reduction in work purchased snacks and drinks, as well as gasoline to and from work. After this comparison, you may find that staying home with your child, after their birth, is actually a cost effective solution.

When determining if you should return to work after the birth of your child, you are also urged to examine the benefits of staying home. From birth to the toddler age, children are at an important stage in their life. Many experts have stated that close contact between parents and their children can help improve their relationship, as well as improve their developmental skills, as someone is working with them at all times. These are just important factors to take into consideration.

Of course, it is also important to remember that you don’t just have to be a stay-at-home mom. There are a large number of mothers in the United States who are considered work-at-home moms. With a computer and internet access, there are a number of work-at-home jobs or home-based business opportunities that can allow you to stay at home with your new baby, as well as bring in a source of income. If you have yet to return to work, working from home is something that you may at least want to take into consideration.

The above mentioned points are mostly centered on the benefits of staying at home with your child, after their birth. While there are a number of benefits to doing so, you should also know that there are a number of benefits to sending your child to daycare, as long as that daycare comes highly rated and recommended. Perhaps, the greatest benefit is the social interaction that your child will likely receive by being around other children. It is also important to mention your own needs. Working from home or staying at home with kids is a large task, one that can occasionally be stressful. That is why many mothers make the decision to return to the workforce after having a child, for their own sanity.

As you likely already know, the decision as to whether or not you want to return to work after the birth of your baby is your decision to make, but the above mentioned points are ones that you may want to keep in mind. Regardless of whether you decide to return to work or stay at home with your child, your and your child will likely have a long and healthy relationship with each other for years and years to come.

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This article is brought to you by SweatLots: sweatlots.com See also, How to Get Rid of Pregnancy Fat: sweatlots.com/how-to-get-rid-of-pregnancy-fat.html

Not Getting Pregnant Causes and Cures

2009-10-12T11:59:00.000-07:00

Every woman in this world wants to get pregnant and become a mother in her life. It is said that a woman is not a complete woman until she gives birth to a baby.

But, unfortunately there are millions of women who cannot get pregnant because of various reasons and thus they cannot become mother in their life. There may be many reasons that why a woman does not get pregnant?

Five Causes of Not Getting Pregnant -

1. Excess Drug or Alcohol Use - You may have heard before that illicit drug use works as a negative factor if you want to get pregnant. The drugs like ‘Marijuana’ suppress the production of hormones that can decrease sperm count and cause erectile dysfunction in men and in women, it causes irregularity in periods. And though, consumption of Alcohol may not affect fertility, but if one wants to increase the pregnancy chances sooner, it is advised to avoid alcohol.

2. Smoking - If anyone of the couple smoke cigarettes, it hinders the pregnancy chances greatly. It has been found that women who smoke are 60% more prone to infertility compared to other women. Medical researches show that smoking causes egg depletion and sperm damage and results in infertility. And not only for pregnancy, but Smoking is also bad for your health. Smoking puts an unborn baby at a high risk for many complications.

3. Caffeine Intake - The effects of Caffeine on fertility is still controversial as some say it harmful even if taken in small amount while others believe it is ok with moderate use. Those who are in position say, the consumption of Caffeine reduces fertility and it is very risky during pregnancy as it increased the chances of miscarriage. But, even if it is unclear yet, why take a chance when you want to conceive quickly? Remember that Caffeine is in coffee, chocolates, tea and most sodas.

4. Poor Diet - It really matter what you eat or don't as it is crucial to your overall health and reproduction ability. Getting pregnant is a process that needs all body organs and glands to function well for proper hormonal balance. When women do not get the required amount of fruits and vegetables during the pregnancy, it really affects them.

5. Poor Intercourse Timing - It is obvious that to conceive, you need to have intercourse. T has been found that most of the couples with no child have intercourse at wrong times. When a couple has intercourse whenever they want, the pregnancy chances are not very good, especially for the old age couples in 30's or 40's, timing is crucial to getting pregnant faster. The intercourse should be done near the ovulation time.

Five Cures For Not Getting Pregnant -

1. Plan the Intercourse - If you want to get pregnant, time your intercourse on days 9, 11, 12, 14, and 16 of your cycle. It should be near your ovulation period. And if you do not have a 28 day cycle, it won't work for you. Then, you can go for sex every other day, beginning from the 10th day of the cycle. You can also use the fertility chart calendar, it really helps.

2. Use Ovulation Prediction Kits - Buy the ovulation prediction kits. Before one or two days when you ovulate, the body creates luteinizing hormone surge. Now, these kits detect this surge and you need to follow the instructions of the kit on how to read the test strips, what the right time is to test and also what day of the cycle is right to begin testing. These kits are not able to confirm ovulation, but can predict ovulation prior to it occurs. When you use these kits with the fertility charts, it works perfect.

3. The Intercourse Position - The ideal position for intercourse is ‘the woman on the bottom’, if you want to conceive. It is advised that a woman lies on the back after intercourse for fifteen minutes.

4. Infertility Acupuncture - This is the best natural remedy if you are not getting pregnant since a long. It is far better than all the medical treatments with no possible side effects.

5. Supplements - Start taking the best supplements of nutritional vitamins and minerals. If you take a high-quality nutritional supplement fill in the dietary gaps in the body. Our body needs and uses nutrients like amino acids, antioxidants, enzymes, neuronutrients, and others, so that all the organs can function properly.

If you are facing trouble conceiving, then you may also try the new pregnancy guide ‘Pregnancy Miracle’ written by Dr. Lisa Olson. She had no child till 14 years. Then she discovered some natural tips and ways to get pregnant easily with no drugs involved. She got pregnant at 43. This guide works for all women with no regard to their cause that why they did not get pregnant or their age.

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Not getting pregnant? then get more information about Fastest way to get pregnant naturally. Baby is a dream of all females. We will help you in that, to get pregnant safely.

Prevention And Treatment During Pregnancy

2009-10-10T11:56:00.000-07:00

More than half of all pregnant women will develop stretch marks during their pregnancy. Otherwise known as striae gravidarum, stretch marks look like streaks on the surface of the skin, and may be vary in color depending on your natural skin color. Most lighter skinned women develop pinkish stretch marks, whereas darker skinned women tend to have stretch marks that are lighter than the surrounding skin.

Most women develop stretch marks on their abdomen during pregnancy, however it is also common to get stretch marks on the buttocks, hips, breasts and thighs. In some cases up to 90 percent of women have stretch marks on some part of their body as a result of pregnancy.

What Causes Stretch Marks?
Stretch marks form when your skin is stretched rapidly as happens during pregnancy. Most women develop stretch marks during the later trimesters of pregnancy though some women start to develop them as soon as their bellies start growing.

Stretch marks are actually small tears that form in the tissue that supports the skin and helps it stretch. Stretch marks represent the tearing or separation of collagen from the skin when tearing occurs. Stretch marks are not harmful or painful and usually fade over time.

Who Gets Stretch Marks
Many women believe that using lotions and creams help prevent stretch marks. Realistically speaking however, the number of stretch marks you get depends on how elastic your skin is. The elasticity of your skin usually relates to your genetic make up. The best thing you can do is find out if your mother got bad stretch marks during pregnancy. If she did, you are probably more prone to stretch marks than other women.

Keep in mind the more weight you gain during pregnancy the more likely you are to have stretch marks. Normally the skin is elastic and capable of stretching quite a bit, however for some women the changes that occur during pregnancy are very drastic. These rapid fluctuations of weight and skin stretching can result in stretch marks.

Women with multiples are more likely to get stretch marks because their bellies usually grow much larger than women with single pregnancies. Other women likely to develop stretch marks include women who gain a lot of weight quickly during their pregnancy and women who carry big babies.

Here are some other factors that may contribute to your susceptibility to stretch marks:

* If you developed stretch marks before (like on your breasts during puberty) you are more likely to get stretch marks while pregnant.

* If you had stretch marks during another pregnancy you will usually get them again.

* If you are overweight or gain more weight than recommended you are more likely to get stretch marks.

* The better hydrated and well nourished you are the less likely you are to develop serious stretch marks.

Stretch Mark Prevention
Most women believe that they can prevent stretch marks by using creams and lotions. There are many formulations on the market today that claim to help prevent stretch marks. Some of these may help moisturize your skin and reduce itching. They may help reduce some stretch marks however there are no scientific studies that support this.

You probably know at least one parent however that swears by cocoa butter or some other formulation to prevent stretch marks. If nothing else rubbing these creams into your belly provides your unborn baby with a light and comforting massage. They may also give you peace of mind knowing you did everything possible to prevent stretch marks.

The best thing you can do to minimize stretch marks aside from using any creams or moisturizers you select is gaining the recommended amount of weight during pregnancy. Doctors recommend most women gain between 25 and 34 pounds. Gaining much more than this can cause you to develop more stretch marks.

Removing Stretch Marks
Most women worry about stretch marks after they have their baby. Fortunately most stretch marks do fade with time. Usually after 12 moths postpartum most stretch marks are light and less noticeable. Their texture may remain different from the surrounding skin however. Many women notice their stretch marks fading into whitish lines that are minimally noticeable.

Some women have very severe stretch marks that impact their self esteem after pregnancy. There are many treatments available for women that want to improve the appearance of their stretch marks.

If your stretch marks are particularly bad, you may consult with your doctor or a dermatologist. Some topical treatments such as tretinoin cream can help reduce stretch marks. These creams must be used after pregnancy however, because they can cause defects in your unborn baby.

Most of the topical treatments available should be used shortly after delivery, before they start to fade. The more time that passes between the delivery and use of cream, the less likely they are to be effective.

If you are breastfeeding it is important you consult with your doctor before using any stretch mark treatments. Some treatments may impact your milk supply or pass through the breast milk to your baby.

Most of the creams available to reduce stretch marks do not help relieve the sagging skin that also accompanies childbirth. There are some newer treatments including laser treatments however that may improve the skins elasticity and help reduce stretch marks. Some women also consider plastic surgery after they are done having children. A tummy tuck can help hide some stretch marks and reduce sagging skin.

Most women are able to joyfully overlook stretch marks when they consider the miracle of life they bring into the world. For the most the small annoyance even the worst stretch marks bring are well worth the joys of bringing a newborn baby into the world. Do what you can during pregnancy to maintain an appropriate weight and try not to worry too much about stretch marks. Many women wear them with pride, a ‘war wound’ or “badge of honor” related to their pregnancy. Why not wear them with pride?

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Did you find this article useful? For more useful tips and hints, points to ponder and keep in mind, techniques, and insights pertaining to Internet Business, do please browse for more information at our websites. www.adsence-dollar-factory.com www.100earningtips.com

8 Things To Consider When You Want Another Baby

2009-10-08T12:51:00.000-07:00

When You Want Another Baby 8 Things To Consider

By: Michelle Brunetti

Even if you thought you would never step foot in the delivery room again (or, prop them up, actually), the desire to bear the baby bulge is different for everyone. The urge to have children can come from wanting to give your child a sibling, the love of being parents, or even the need to "carry on your legacy."

But, what if you can't, or shouldn't, yet that longing for another baby just won't go away? Whether you have one child and are wishing for another or you have five kids and just can't stop thinking about the sixth, sometimes the need to breed just won't take its leave.

Before you start to think that you're all alone on the no-more-babies front, check out a few of the reasons some moms are choosing not to continue procreating:

* Age - For some moms, the risk is too great. In women, fertility is typically affected at about 35 years old. The older the mother is, the higher the chance for complications during pregnancy and for their growing fetus.
* Finances - Considering diapers, formula, clothing, and daycare, sometimes you really just can't afford another mouth to feed. Some parents look at how another baby will affect their existing economic standing, and cannot afford a bigger house or car to accommodate a new member in the family.
* Fertility - According to the Mayo Clinic, half a million men have vasectomies each year. And, although this method of birth control is the choice of 9.2 percent of men in the U.S., 27 percent of women choose to "tie their tubes." Reversals are available for each, but they can be costly and are not guaranteed.
* Family dynamics - Adding another member to your brood doesn't just affect the parents. A few have chosen to take their other children into consideration and elect not to expand their household. Jealousy and time are common factors.
* Age gap - Some people feel that they've missed the chance to have another child, simply because they do not want their kids to be too far apart in age. For some, the feeling that they'll "never be done" raising their kids is enough to pull the plug on the idea of having more kiddies.
* Difference in opinion - Some parents are just on different pages: she wants one and he doesn't, or vice versa. It is important to consider the feelings of everyone involved. If both parents are not in agreement, there may be deeper reasons the opposing spouse has that may be the deal-breaker on this topic.
* Goals -Some families have goals of a new job, a new house, a family vacation, or more, that having another child will not allow them to reach.
* Happy with the life they have - For some, they consider their life perfect the way it is. The child(ren) they have are getting older, their household is in sync, and they just don't want to rock the boat.

All the valid "reasons" why you shouldn't continue to have more children aside, according to Elizabeth Pantley, parenting educator and author of parenting books such as Gentle Toddler Care , "If you've thoroughly examined all the issues involved in adding another baby to your family, and your heart and soul continue to have an empty spot that craves another child (or conversely, the doubt and fear are overwhelming), then perhaps you already have your answer."

What do you think is the "right" size family?

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Michelle Brunetti from www.thecutekid.com/, the most respected and fastest growing baby contest with 1.7 million members. theCuteKid.com baby modeling contest is judged by Entertainment Industry professionals and awards over $100,000 in prizes annually. Do You Have a CuteKid?

Common Pregnancy Problems

2009-10-08T11:55:00.000-07:00

All pregnant women will agree that the first few months of pregnancy are unpleasant, to say the least. You may experience morning sickness, swelling in the legs and ankles, abdominal pains and cramps, heartburn, constipation, fatigue, bladder problems, and a myriad of problems in between. The goal of this article is to help you deal with these issues and feel better.

Morning Sickness
Morning sickness is probably the most common of the pregnancy symptoms. Don't be fooled; morning sickness nausea will come at any time of the day, not just in the morning. To help prevent nausea in the morning, wake up slowly. Try eating some plain crackers or dry cereal before getting out of bed. Avoid warm places; heat can increase nauseas feelings. Keep fresh air flowing by opening windows, or turning on exhaust fans. Cooking things in the microwave will emit fewer odors than cooking in the oven or stovetop. Eat something salty before meals, avoid greasy or spicy foods, and try not to drink fluids with your meals. Spread your meals out throughout the day, into about 6 smaller meals. Try taking your prenatals later in the day, and ask your doctor about vitamin B6 and ginger supplements. Sipping on fizzy water with lemon in it, or non-caffeinated teas like peppermint and ginger can help calm nausea.

Abdominal Pain or Cramps
There are many changes going on in your body. A lot of stress is being put on your abdominal muscles, which can cause sharp pains and cramps. To relieve these pains, try using a warm heating pad. To prevent these pains, try strengthening your abdominal muscles. Talk to your doctor to find out which kinds of exercises are best for you.

Swelling
Throughout your pregnancy, you may experience some swelling. Wearing support hose can help to control your weight gain in your legs and ankles. Avoid standing for long periods of time. Wear well-fitting shoes, or buy inserts designed especially for pregnant women. Avoid diuretics, as these will lead to increased swelling. Stay off your feet as much as possible, and elevate your legs when sitting. Lying down is even better than sitting.

Constipation
To combat constipation, you should exercise regularly, drink plenty of water, and eat lots of fibrous foods such as fruits and vegetables, and whole grain cereals and breads.

Fatigue
Fatigue can come from sleepless nights due to aches and pains or vivid dreams, or simply from too much stress. The most effective method for dealing with fatigue is to get plenty of rest. Take several naps during the day. Eat a well balanced diet, including about an extra 300 calories per day. Iron deficiency is a leading cause of fatigue, so be sure to get enough. Although it may seem counter-productive, fatigue can often be relieved by exercising. Exercise will be refreshing and will leave you feeling energized.

Heartburn
Many of the remedies associated with nausea will also help you deal with heartburn. In addition, chew fennel or papaya enzymes, and avoid wearing tight clothing.

Bladder Problems
Bladder problems can be among the most bothersome of pregnancy related issues. First and foremost, drink plenty of water. Avoid junk food, refined starches, coffee, sugar, tea, and foods high in acidic content. Avoid using soap on your genitals. Be sure to empty your bladder and wash with water after intercourse. Wipe from front to back after using the bathroom. Try to include cabbage, leeks, and garlic in your diet, drink 3 glasses of cranberry juice every day, and take a vitamin C supplement.

Some women get more problems than others, but they generally get a little easier during the second trimester. In general, just make sure to get plenty of rest, drink plenty of water, get some exercise regularly, eat a well balanced diet, and try to keep an optimistic mindset.

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Know Everything About Infertility Treatment

2009-09-23T11:54:00.000-07:00

Your infertility treatment plan will depend on the cause or causes behind your infertility. Infertility treatment also depends on whether the problem is from the woman’s side, the man’s side, both sides, or remains unexplained.

The good news is that 85% to 90% of couples dealing with infertility are treated with low-tech treatments, like medication or surgery, with less than 3% being treated by Assisted Reproductive Technologies, like IVF.

Of those treated for infertility, two-thirds will go onto have a baby.

Fertility Drugs

A common cause of infertility in women, ovulation disorders account for about 25% of female factor infertility cases. The first line of treatment for most women with ovulation problems is through medication. Fertility drugs can help a woman ovulate 80% of the time.

Surgical Infertility Treatment

In 35% of female infertility cases, problems are found with the fallopian tubes or problems with the lining of the pelvis and abdomen. Usually, this problem is diagnosed through a test called an HSG, or hysterosalpingogram. If the HSG shows possible blockage of the tubes, the doctor may perform laparoscopic surgery to evaluate the situation, and possibly repair the problem.

* All About Hysterosalpingogram (HSG)
* Laparoscopy for Infertility Diagnosis and Treatment

Sometimes, blockage or scarring is not repairable. In this case, IVF may be recommended.

IUI - Intrauterine Insemination

Intrauterine insemination, also known as artificial insemination, is a procedure that involves placing specially washed sperm directly into the uterus. This treatment may be used in some cases of male factor infertility, if there’s a problem with the woman’s cervical mucus, or in cases of unexplained infertility. IUI may also be used for donor sperm.

* What You Need to Know About Intrauterine Insemination

The success rate of IUI is not very high -– with one study showing 4% of women achieving pregnancy with a non-fertility drug cycle, and 8% to 17% success for IUI cycles that use fertility drugs to produce more, high quality eggs. The advantage of IUI is the cost, which is much lower than IVF.
IVF and Assisted Reproductive Technologies

Assisted reproductive technologies :
(ART) refer to infertility treatments that involve the handling of eggs or embryos. This includes IVF, GIFT, and ZIFT. IVF is the most common form of ART in use today. GIFT treatments make up for less than 2% of all ART procedures, and ZIFT is used less than 1.5% of the time.

IVF (in vitro fertilization): In a typical IVF procedure, fertility drugs are used to stimulate the ovaries to produce eggs. Assuming all goes well at this stage, those eggs are then retrieved from the woman’s ovaries in an out-patient procedure. Next, the eggs are placed together with sperm, in a special cocktail of nutrients, and left alone until fertilization takes place. After fertilization, one to three embryos are placed inside the woman’s uterus.

* IVF Treatment Step By Step

GIFT: With GIFT (gamete intrafallopian transfer), the egg and sperm, or gametes, are not fertilized outside the body. Instead, they are placed together into one of the woman’s fallopian tubes.

ZIFT: With ZIFT (zygote intrafallopian transfer), the zygote is placed in one of the fallopian tubes. This is usually done via laparoscopic surgery.
What’s the success rate of ART?

For women under age 35, the live birth rate for each IVF cycle is 30% to 35%. For women ages 35 to 37, the rate is 25%. For women ages 38 to 40, the rate is 15% to 20%, and for women over age 40, the success rate is 6% to 10%.

ART is also sometimes performed with donor eggs and/or sperm. For women whose eggs are of lower quality, donor eggs may be the best option. The live birth rate for egg donation is between 40% to 45%, but less than 10% of couples choose to use donor eggs or sperm.

You can get more detailed information IVF Treatment Step by Step at:

Deccan Fertility Clinic & Keyhole Surgery Center
Tel: +91 22 2446 6633 / 2444 9992
Fax: +91 22 2444 4443
testtubebabyclinic@gmail.com
http://www.testtubebabyclinic.com

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The Deccan Fertility Clinic and Keyhole Surgery Center is India's first budget IVF clinic and an ISO 9001-2000 certified center.We are Infertility clinic, Fertility centre & IVF lab,Surrogacy Clinic for Male & Female in Mumbai,India. Our fertility center provides the best affordable quality infertility,fertility treatments with advanced reproductive technologies like IVF,ART, GIFT, ZIFT, TET, ICSI,donor egg,surrogate and surrogacy services for all nationalities. www.testtubebabyclinic.com

Symptoms of Infertility in Female and Male

2009-09-21T11:49:00.000-07:00

For most couples, the first symptom of infertility is when after a year of unprotected sex, they can’t get pregnant. It is possible to have regular cycles, a healthy sex life, not have any of the risk factors, be generally healthy, and still suffer from infertility.

But for some couples, there are early warning signs or risk factors that may hint to a fertility problem, before they try for six months to a year unsuccessfully.

Here are some questions to ask yourself and your partner. If you answer yes to any of these questions, you may want to speak to your doctor before you spend a year trying on your own.

Do you have irregular cycles?

An irregular cycle can be a red flag for infertility problems. If your cycles are unusually short or long (less than 24 days, or more than 35 days), or come unpredictably, you should speak with your doctor. An irregular cycle may be a sign of possible ovulation problems.

Do you bleed extremely heavily or lightly? Do you have excessive cramps?

Bleeding for anything between 3 to 7 days can be considered normal. However, if the bleeding is very light, or extremely heavy and intense, you should see your doctor. Also, if the bleeding changes significantly from month to month, either in terms of the heaviness or coloring, or length of bleeding time, or if you suffer from severe menstrual cramps, these are also possible symptoms that may hint to a fertility problem.

Are you older than 35?

If you’re older than age 35, your chances of dealing with infertility are higher. For example, at age 30, the average woman’s chance of conceiving during any one cycle is 20%. By age 40, that chance drops to a low 5%. If you’re over age 35, you should seek help if six months of unprotected sex doesn’t lead to pregnancy.

Does your partner experience impotence or ejaculatory problems?

Male factor infertility isn’t always so obvious – usually low sperm counts or inhibited sperm mobility is determined by a sperm analysis (in other words, you won’t be able to “notice” this yourself.) But if your partner does experience sexual dysfunction, this could be an infertility red flag.

Are you either underweight or overweight?

Being excessively thin or overweight can lead to infertility problems. Also, extreme or poor dieting practices, or too much exercise, can lead to problems with fertility.

How do you know if you’re too thin, or overweight? Check your BMI to see if your weight is in the healthy range.

Have you had three successive miscarriages?

While infertility is usually associated with the inability to get pregnant, a woman who experiences recurrent miscarriages is also considered to be dealing with infertility.

Because miscarriage is not that uncommon –- happening in anywhere from 10% to 20% of pregnancies -– doctors do not usually consider a diagnosis of infertility until after the third successive miscarriage.

Do you or your partner have any chronic illnesses, like diabetes, thyroid problems, or hypertension?

Chronic illnesses, as well as their treatments, can lead to fertility problems. According to The American Fertility Association, illnesses like diabetes and hypothyroidism can cause fertility problems. Insulin, antidepressants, and thyroid hormones may lead to irregular cycles. Tagamet (cimetidine), a medication used in the treatment of peptic ulcers, and some hypertension medications can cause male factor infertility, including problems with sperm production or their ability to fertilize the egg.

If you are dealing with chronic illness, or taking a medication that impacts your fertility, talk to your doctor about possible options.
Have you or your partner been treated for cancer in the past?

Some cancer treatments can lead to fertility problems. If you or your partner has gone through cancer treatments, especially radiation therapy that was near the reproductive organs, seeking feedback from your doctor is recommended.
Do you or your partner have a history of STDs?

STDs can be the cause of infertility. Infection and inflammation from chlamydia or gonorrhea can cause blockage of the fallopian tubes, making pregnancy either impossible or putting a woman at risk for ectopic pregnancy.

Because chlamydia and gonorrhea do not usually cause noticeable symptoms in women, it’s important that you’ve been screened for these STDs.
Do you or your partner smoke or drink alcohol?

Just about everyone knows drinking and smoking while pregnant is a big no-no. But smoking and drinking while trying to get pregnant is also a problem. Smoking has been linked to problems with conception in women, and heavy drinking has been linked with female and male infertility.

You can get more detailed information IVF Treatment Step by Step at:

Deccan Fertility Clinic & Keyhole Surgery Center
Tel: +91 22 2446 6633 / 2444 9992
Fax: +91 22 2444 4443
testtubebabyclinic@gmail.com
http://www.testtubebabyclinic.com

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INFERTILITY,CAUSES AND TREATMENT OPTIONS FOR INFERTILE COUPLES

2009-09-19T11:47:00.000-07:00

What is Infertility?
Infertility, whether male or female, can be defined as 'the inability of a couple to achieve conception or to bring a pregnancy to term after a year or more of regular, unprotected intercourse'.Infertility is often a multifactorial problem and in any given couple may be related to the female partner, the male partner or the combination of both.
The evaluation of infertility proceeds along simple and logical lines of a basic three-step infertility work-up.
Test for eggs

Test for sperm

Test to make sure they can get together

For the male the specific tests required may include:
A semen analysis

Blood tests

Referral to an andrologist if an abnormality is detected.

For the female the specific tests required may include:
Hormonal tests

An infectious diseases screen

Endometrial biopsy

X-ray to determine patency of the fallopian tubes (hysterosalpingogram)

Ultrasound, possibly with saline infusion (Saline Infusion Sonography)

Hysteroscopy, a procedure in which a small telescope is placed in the uterus to check for abnormalities

Laparoscopy, a surgical procedure in which a small telescope is placed through the navel, to check for abnormalities of the tubes, ovaries and pelvis. This is the only way to diagnose mild forms of endometriosis

Causes that leads to infertility.

Infertility can be due to problems with sperm production, transportation through the male reproductive tract and delivery into the female reproductive tract. On the female side, infertility may be caused by a lack of ovulation (anovulation), blocked fallopian tubes, or inability of an embryo to implant and establish a pregnancy in the uterus. Infertility often results from combinations of several problems on both the male and female sides.

What treatment options do infertile couples have?

Several options are offered to couples depending on the type of infertility that has been diagnosed. The vast majority of female patients are successfully treated with the administration of drugs such as clomiphene citrate, cabergoline, metformin or gonadotropins. Surgery can also be a means to repair damage to the reproductive organs, such as those caused by endometriosis and infectious diseases. Treatment options for male infertility also include the administration of drugs, surgery and assisted reproductive technologies, such as intracytoplasmic sperm injection (ICSI). Drug therapy and surgery have proved very successful for specific types of male infertility. However, in a great number of cases, the reason why men have fertility problems remains unexplained and the treatment methods applied are empirical. Some patients nevertheless require more complex medical intervention. Assisted reproductive technologies (ART) refer to several different methods designed to overcome barriers to natural fertilization such as anatomical problems (eg blocked fallopian tubes). One of these techniques, in-vitro fertilization (IVF), has now been practiced for more than 15 years. Overall, the estimated number of infertile patients currently treated by ART is around 20%.

What is the incidence of infertility worldwide?

The World Health Organization (WHO) estimates that approximately 8-10% of couples experience some form of infertility problem. On a worldwide scale, this means that 50-80 million people suffer from infertility. However, the incidence of infertility may vary from region to region. In France, 18% of couples of childbearing age said that they had difficulties in conceiving.

How important is counseling to the patient undergoing infertility treatment?

The physician helps the infertile couple find the most appropriate therapeutic path to overcome barriers to conception, but, before a treatment is started, patients need to be aware of all its aspects, including its constraints. Beyond the medical expertise, infertile couples are also looking for counseling and support. From a psychological point of view, infertility is often a hard condition to cope with. During treatment and before a pregnancy is achieved, feelings of frustration or loss of control usually experienced by the infertile couple are likely to be exacerbated. Management of infertility includes both the physical and emotional care of the couple. Therefore, support from physicians, nurses and all people involved in treating the infertile couple is essential to help them cope with the various aspects of their condition. Offering counseling and contact with other infertile couples and patient associations can provide help outside the medical environment.

For further information on any question relating to IVF treatment,infertility issues,test tube baby clinic, surrogacy treatment,surrogate mother,surrogacy in India or infertility specialist you may contact
Deccan Fertility Clinic & Keyhole Surgery Center
Tel: +91 22 2446 6633 / 2444 9992
Fax: +91 22 2444 4443
testtubebabyclinic@gmail.com
http://www.testtubebabyclinic.com

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Baby Gender Predictor - Is amniocentesis worth the risk?

2009-09-17T11:44:00.000-07:00

A baby gender predictor is any tool, tale or test that can help identify the gender of your baby, and can range from whacky old wives’ tales to professional and proven pregnancy testing and diagnoses.

Discovering that you are pregnant is an incredible moment and one that is often followed by a myriad of different emotions. Knowing that there is the beginning of a new life growing inside you is an indescribable sensation and marks the beginning of the long and very special journey that is motherhood. Many questions will present themselves along this path, and one of the earliest and most prominent is the ineffable, “Is it a boy or girl?” Thus begins the search for a baby gender predictor.

In the early days and weeks of your pregnancy you will be come across several different options for identifying your baby’s gender. Old wives’ tales and Chinese lunar calendars will have to compete with formal obstetric scans and pregnancy procedures. As a prenatal test incorporating chromosomal analysis, amniocentesis testing fits firmly into the second category. With an accuracy of identifying baby gender at over 99%, it is understandable why the amniocentesis test attracts attention from parents seeking a baby gender predictor. Nevertheless it is of significant importance that parents considering undergoing an amniocentesis fully understand the purpose of the test as well as the procedure, risks and implications.

The word ‘centesis’ means a puncture or perforation, and medically refers to the act of puncturing a body cavity or organ with a hollow needle in order to draw out fluid. An amniocentesis is therefore the extraction of amniotic fluid; the surrounding liquid that nourishes and protects your baby during pregnancy. Although not as intrusive as it might sound, it is clear that this is certainly not a non-invasive procedure. Let us therefore consider the process steps, the risks involved and the circumstances where an amniocentesis may be a prudent option.

The test is usually conducted at around 15 to 22 weeks into a pregnancy when there is a desire to check for chromosome abnormalities that indicate a condition such as Down syndrome, Edward syndrome or Turner syndrome, or neural defects that may reside within either parent’s genetic history. Under ultrasound guidance, a thin needle is inserted through the mother’s abdominal wall to extract approximately 20ml of amniotic fluid from around the baby. The amniotic fluid naturally contains some foetal cells containing the same genetic blueprint as your baby. A chromosomal analysis of these cells will test for abnormalities indicating known conditions such as Down syndrome, Edward syndrome or Turner syndrome. The chromosomal analysis will also confirm baby gender.

The vast majority of amniocentesis tests are completed without complication, approximately 1 in 200 results in a miscarriage. The use of ultrasound guidance and the competency of medical practitioner are key factors in minimizing this risk. There is also a secondary risk of a uterine infection in the days following the test which may also cause a miscarriage, although the occurrence rate is less than 1 in 1000.

Amniocentesis is normally only offered as an option in one or more of the following circumstances:

• The mother is to be 35 years old or older at delivery
• The parents have already had a child with a chromosomal disorder
• The parents themselves have a genetic or chromosomal disorder
• A previous ultrasound suggested possible abnormalities
• A maternal screening revealed the baby would be at a higher risk

Parents in these circumstances will have to weigh up the advantages and disadvantages of choosing to proceed with an amniocentesis test, and any decision is recommended to be taken in consultation with your medical professional.

Although without doubt an extremely accurate baby gender predictor, identifying baby gender should not be the primary incentive for taking an amniocentesis. There are other less-invasive baby gender predictor options that can be used very early into your pregnancy.

Information about the Author:

May Hammond is a medical professional and mother of two who has dedicated her life to supporting mothers and families. Her internet resource Baby Gender Predictor is a wealth of essential information and a must-see for any mother keen to find an early baby gender predictor and to take the right steps during early pregnancy. Visit Baby Gender Predictor now to ensure you pregnancy gets off to the best possible start.

7 Steps To Boost Your Sex Life

2009-08-08T12:12:00.000-07:00

Getting scientific about sex in the name of procreation can take out all the fun out of making babies. Nature intended it to be fun and pleasurable.

Orgasms are amazing immune boosters and stress busters. They do wonders for the pelvic region, infusing the area with fresh oxygen and nutrients.

During orgasm your feel good hormones: endorphins are released. Studies have shown that endorphins can increase pain tolerance by 70%. These feel good hormones can alleviate fear, anxiety, headaches, period cramps and promote a feeling of deep relaxation and wellbeing.

Endorphins are not the only hormones that get released during sexual climax.

Studies have found, a steroid hormone DHEA, gets released shortly before climax in several times the normal quantity. DHEA promotes glowing skin, boosts immune function, improves brain function, supports the cardiovascular system, fat metabolism and even has antiageing properties! Who wouldnt want some of that?

Other three hormones (among others) which get released as a result of an orgasm are serotonin, oxytocin and estrogen.

Serotonin is another feel good hormone shown to reduce cravings for alcohol, cigarettes and junk food.

Oxytocin boosts trust and feeling of closeness to your partner. And incidentally this is also one of the hormones released during breastfeeding to encourage bonding between the mother and her baby.

Women who have sex on a weekly basis have higher levels of estrogen which can regulate menstrual cycle, increase HDL (good cholesterol), decrease LDL (bad cholesterol), improve bone density, strengthen the cardiovascular system and make your skin soft and glowing!

And if that is not enough you will also burn approximately 140 calories during sex and your appetite will be temporarily suppressed thanks to an alkaloid phenetylamine released during sex.

Need I say more?

Ok, here is one of the most important benefits of orgasm: Super Immunity. Studies have shown that regular orgasms can boost your immunity by 20%. In particular we are talking here about infection, cold and flu fighting antibodies. During sex you also flush out toxins (in the sweat) and increase oxygenation of the cells (deep breathing)!

So if you are not making most of this God given gift already here are:

The 7 steps to boost your sex life

1. She likes longer foreplay and getting turned on it the mind is the key. Be totally honest about your fantasies and share them with your partner.

2. He likes visual stimulation. Go shopping for the lingerie he finds stimulating.

3. Discover Kama Sutra.

4. Change the scenery. Having sex only in the bed and your bedroom can get boring. Discuss with your partner what would appeal to both of you. Be like teenagers again!

5. Nourish the inner child and dont forget to live. Being focused on your work, home and trying to get pregnant can turn your life into a routine in which you dont have the time to even think about what it is you enjoy. What are your hobbies? If you cant think of any, what were your hobbies as a child/teenager? Take time out each week to do the things you love/used to love and nourish your inner child. The child like curiosity about life will return and open up new possibilities for you. For we see only what or mind allows us to see, by expanding your mind your options and new possibilities will appear on the horizon.

6. Take a break from the usual surroundings. This can vary from a holiday or a weekend away or even just a night in nice hotel in your city. New surroundings influence our brain to view things a new. Make it a habit to escape the routine on a regular basis. Change is as good as a holiday.

7. Food delicious food! There is a lot to be said about aphrodisiac food and spices. Get creative in the kitchen and whip up a delicious dinner (organic ingredients please!) that would even make Aphrodite blush. Here are some aphrodisiac foods and spices:

- Asparagus
- Cacao
- Celery
- Dates
- Durian fruit
- Oysters
- Pimento
- Pineapple
- Pomegranate
- Sweet potatoes
- Squash
- Basil
- Cardamom
- Cayenne
- Ginger
- Cinnamon
- Vanilla

What are you waiting for? Instead of relying on drugs, junk food and vices to make you feel good, have sex instead and boost your fertility in the process!

Copyright 2009 Iva Keene and Natural Fertility Prescription

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Is It A Selfish Obsession Or A Cultural Problem With Modern Women?

2009-07-15T12:14:00.000-07:00

Pregnancy has always been a time when a woman can put on 30 -35 pounds and still feel good and proud of herself, after all she is bringing a new life into the world.

But now it is not like this for every woman. A new study shows that 20% of all pregnant women in the Western world do not gain enough weight during pregnancy.

These women don't eat enough during pregnancy or induce vomiting, overexercise, take laxatives and diuretics. They do these dangerous things for the sake of having a slim figure during and immediately after pregnancy.

Many of these women get inspired by the super-slim celebrities whose pregnant images we often see on TV and magazine covers. These celebrities manage to go through their whole pregnancy without putting on much weight and continue to look slim. They keep their belly bump small so they become skinny again immediately after their baby is born. This unnatural "skinny" image becomes a role model of many other "non-celebrity" women to follow.

So, how much weight should a woman gain during a normal pregnancy? The normal range to gain during pregnancy is 25-35 pounds but the amount of weight to gain is different during 1st, 2nd and the 3rd semester.

In the 1st trimester it is normal to put on 5 pounds. During 2nd and 3rd trimester it is normal to put on 1-2 pounds per week. So all up it should be about 30 pounds by the end of the pregnancy.

When a woman tries to be skinny during pregnancy she is starving the foetus. Starving the foetus is a high risk action and can result in foetal mortality plus a high risk of getting conditions such as:

- Spine bifida
- cerebral palsy
- increased incidents of asthma
- increased incidents of allergy
- ear infections
- low birth weight
- prematurity
- metabolic abnormalities
- growth retardation
- birth defects

The list of serious problems that a baby can get is much longer that this.

Don't you think that pregorexia is the most selfish thing you can ever do? Ask yourself what is this for? - It is all for the sake of attaining this glamorous unnatural look you see on celebrities like Nicole Kidman, Nicole Ritchie who never even had a normal baby bump when they were pregnant, not to even mention their general low body weight.

Also, the big challenge for anorexic women (for those who had anorexia before pregnancy) is that they are expected to gain even more weight during pregnancy then non-anorexic women do - to support the baby.

How much more do you need to gain if you are anorexic? You should check this with your doctor because weight gain can be an individual thing and depends on your initial body weight and body mass index to start with.

As a general guideline, pregnant women are supposed to put on about 30 pounds during pregnancy. This means that you should consume an extra 50 calories in the first trimester of pregnancy, an extra 300 calories in the second trimester and extra 400-500 calories in the third trimester.

Now, how do you know if you are getting pregorexia?

If you think too much about being skinny during pregnancy, think about what clothes to wear so you look like you are not pregnant, about how to fool people in to thinking that you are not pregnant.

If you constantly think about food and eating or non-eating - these are all signs that you may have pregorexia.

If this is the case go to your doctor immediately and fix the problem as soon as possible. Otherwise your baby could be in big danger of dying in the womb. You will regret it your whole life, and even if the baby is born do you want it to suffer all its life from birth defects: just because you wanted to be thin to look good for the sake of vanity?

Anorexia and pregnancy are totally incompatible and against nature.

Information about the Author:

Dr Irina Webster MD is the Director of Eating Disorder Institute. She is an author of many books and a public speaker. www.eatingdisorder-institute.com

How To Lose 30 Pounds In 30 Days

2009-06-23T12:16:00.000-07:00

There are many reasons that people have to lose weight from cosmetic reasons, serious health problems, and reducing the incidence of complications prior to becoming pregnant. What I am able to explain to you I have been able to achieve and I want to be able to help as many of you as I possibly can. I am a OB/Gyn Physician and see many women struggling with weight. Obesity has reached epidemic proportion in the US over the past decade, and there is no end in sight. There is no single reason that this disease process is out of control. Being overweight is associated with heart disease, strokes, hypertension, arthritis, and cancer. The steps that I am getting ready to explain are very easy and straight forward to implement and follow. The most difficult part of this plan is to maintain consistency and persistency.

1) Eat 5 to 6 small meals a day. Eating breakfast lunch and dinner along with a mid-morning, mid afternoon and evening snack. A protein snack prior to going to bed with minimal to no carbohydrate intake will allow only a minimal amount of insulin to be released and will prevent minimal to no fat uptake at night. Most people make the mistake of decreasing their intake to little or nothing. By spreading the same amount of calories out to 5 or 6 meals a day, the metabolism actually increases by 10 percent which causes fat to be utilized and removed from the body.

a. There should be protein, non starchy vegetables and a fruit at each meal

b. Never miss breakfast and eat oatmeal, grits, or cream of wheat along with eggs (3 to 5), bacon, sausage, or Canadian ham. Eating breakfast is important to elevate your metabolism

c. The protein should consist of minimal fat. Tuna, skinned chicken breast, and steak with the least amount of fat are ideal. No fried foods.

d. No processed foods (breads, cakes, chips)

e. You can eat brown rice or yams at each meal

f. The portions should be no larger than your fist

2) Drink 1/2 to 1 gallon of water a day.

a. As adults become older, they lose their thirst mechanism and stop drinking the proper amount of fluids. This leads to the body becoming acidotic which leads to chronic diseases (heart disease, hypertension, arthritis, cancer, and obesity). So the first thing to do when there is a sensation of hunger is to drink two glasses of water.

b. This helps to flush out all the toxins in the body and assures that the body is fully hydrated and prevents acid build up. It also happens to help increase the body's metabolism. Start off by drinking two glasses of water before breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

c. No carbonated drinks, diet drinks, sweet tea, fruit juices, milk, milk shakes, or alcohol as they contain unnecessary carbohydrates which leads to weight gain

3) Walk on the treadmill or ride stationary bicycle slowly every morning prior to eating breakfast and one hour before going to bed at night. If you are not able to talk while on the treadmill, or riding the bicycle in normal sentences, you are exercising too fast. You can also walk for an hour twice a day if there is no access to a treadmill or stationary bike. If you are unable to walk or ride a bicycle due to physical reasons, then I recommend you walk in the pool for an hour twice a day and move upper extremities underneath the water as you walk.

4) Lift light weights in the gym 4 times a week for 30 minutes. (squats, dead lifts, incline bench press, pull downs, pushups, and pull ups)

a. This helps to convert fat to muscle which increases the body's metabolism. Each pound of muscle that you gain in weight burns 50 k/calories more a day.

b. It reduces the amount of blood sugar as it helps the muscles take up sugar from the blood stream which reduces insulin resistance and retards or prevents the onset of Type I (non insulin dependent) diabetes

5) You may eat or drink one hour a week whatever you want. Normally the first two weeks you will do so, but after that you will not want to do this splurge. I normally do this 1 hour "happy meal" for lunch on Sunday afternoon.

By following the steps above, I assure you that you will lose 30 pounds of weight in 30 days. Please do it for the right reason and that is your health. Continue to be consistent with these steps after 30 days and do not go back to your old habits.

Information about the Author:

Ocala Women’s Clinic, was established by Dr. James Pendergraft. Our Ocala Abortion Pill Offering the latest, safest and most advanced techniques for providing non-surgical, medical and surgical abortion methods including abortion pill in Ocala. For further information including family planning, please visit our premiere website. www.womenscenter.com

What Your Choice In Baby Names Really Says About You

2009-01-12T12:42:00.000-08:00

The little stick turned blue and it became official. You're havin' a baby, which means the race is now on for choosing the best name possible. You hit the 'net, buy the books, and begin scrambling to assemble your list of potentials. The ground rules are clear - you each retain veto power to ensure your child doesn't get saddled with the name of that stalker you had in college or the stripper your husband frequented during his early-20s dry spell. You're both determined to pick the most perfect name ever for your little bundle of joy. But where do you start? How do you choose? A lot depends on how you and your significant other define yourselves.

Old School Parents

Old school parents possess a strong sense of tradition. They appreciate the tried and true names of history and the family that came before. The importance of honoring living and dead relatives by including their names on the birth certificate cannot be overstated. They would even be prepared to accept names like Edgar or Eunice if the relative was important enough. The likelihood that their children may posses a minimum of two middle names is high and jumping to as many as five is not out of the question. These are not mere names - they are unbreakable links to the past designed to influence the future.

Examples of old school names: David, Anne, Patrick, Victoria, Edward, Catherine, Robert, and Joseph

Hip Parents

Falling into the hip category usually causes the most problems due mainly to the basic definition of the term. "Hip" refers to beingfashionably current, which is fine when you're buying shoes or picking restaurants but can be brutal when it comes to choosing a name that's supposed to last a lifetime. The hip almost always grab the "name of the moment" that, while insanely popular during the year of the birth in question, almost always results in the child sharing that name with three of four other kids in their class (think mid-eighties and Jennifer). Consider this - like-named syndrome is often "cured" when peers attach descriptive additions such as Fat Lucy and New Lucy, or Tall Ted and Small Ted.

Examples of hip names: Aiden, Emma, Jacob, Sarah, Ethan, Emily, Tyler, and Ava

Counter Culture Parents

These folks walk the fine line between desperately attempting to avoid group-think and veering dangerously off into being different just for the sake of being different. Determined to up-end societal norms, you'll often find these frustratingly self-aware individuals going out of their way to choose names that broadcast their world view, incite debate, and subversively reveal the stupidity of the masses. It almost goes without saying that members of this group have very high opinions of themselves.

Examples of counter-culture names: Ziggy, Noam, Janis, Jimi, Stick, Revolution, Sage, Winston Smith (first and middle), Vishnu, and Nug.

Pop Culture Parents:

This group is interesting in that they try to choose names that best reflect their happiest moments in life. These are usually based in popular media or commercial interests that struck a nerve once-upon-a-time but can still cross the spectrum in style. The desire to honor that which gave them so much joy in their youth is beyond question. In many cases these names provide the very best, and most intensely personal, advertising known to man as they link people and products together forever.

Examples of pop culture names: Bo and Luke, Fred and Daphne, Tiffany, Lexus, Jager, Obama, Macy, and Carl Jr.

Artist Parents:

Of all the groups, this is the one that is almost completely free of even the softest grip on reality whatsoever. Their name choices go from the free-flowingly abstract to the outer reaches of hazy-crazy. There is little hard reason for choosing these names as they are often words, emotions, or even sounds that tweaked something, somewhere, sometime. For whatever reason, the parent feels it must be immortalized on a birth certificate. These names are usually constructed to achieve maximum attention (for the parents).

Artist name examples: Apple, Rain, Bloom, Tract, Patience, Dew, Whip, Fad, Folio, Cacti, and Beatrick.

Hopefully, most parents will recognize whatever category they fall into and either attempt to expand beyond it or, at the very least, soften their choice by employing a sensible middle name (PteroDavid Smith). At least the kid will have a couple of choices as he grows up.

Telling the world who you are is wonderful and inspiring, but remember that the most important needs belong to the small child biding its time in-utero. The name you pick is something they'll be stuck with for an awful long time, so going beyond your own chosen persona would be a nice gift to give your child. You remain free to pull a Johnny Cash (name your boy "Sue") or show-off your affection for jingoistic Cuban T-shirts by naming him Che. Whatever you choose, just remember that someday you're going to have to explain your reasons for doing so. Knowing that suggests you best choose wisely.

What made you choose your baby's name?

Information about the Author:

Michelle Brunetti from www.thecutekid.com/, the most respected and fastest growing baby contest with over 1.7 million members. theCuteKid.com baby contest winners are picked by top modeling and talent scouts. Prizes equal to $100,000 annually - Do You Have a CuteKid?