The Largest Gluten Free Pizza. (2012)

A new record has been reclaimed by the originator of pizza. The Italians had again made us awe as they have broken the record of having the largest gluten free pizza that is around 131-foot long.

The people responsible for the world beating record were five Italian chefs led by Dovilio Nardi, a pizza chain maker who was providing service for those with celiac disease, and Dr. Schar, a gluten-free food company was the organizer.

Over 19,800 pounds of flour was used, 10,000 pounds of tomato sauce were spread, 8,800 pounds of mozzarella cheese were topped and mixed in the pizza were 1,488 pounds of margarine, 551 pounds of rock salt, 220 pounds of lettuce and 55 pounds of vinegar. Overall, it weighed 51,257 pounds.

Baking the dough alone took 2 days to bake in 5,000 batches and the whole process was very long but when they broke the record, everything was worth it.

Previously, the record holder was back in 1990, holding a 122 feet big pizza made by Norwood Pick’n Pay hypermarket in South Africa. Now, the Italians hold the record, exceeding over 9 feet from the previous record and was entitled “Ottvia, an homage to the first Roman emperor Octavian Augustus.”

HOW TO USE A CONDOM

When things get up close and personal, the rule is always "better safe than sorry." If you're new to sex, or getting back into the dating scene after a long-term relationship has ended, condoms are a must-have accessory—and when used correctly, they are your best defense against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). They are also fairly effective at their original role as a contraceptive device. To properly use a male condom, follow these instructions

Open the condom wrapper using the easy-tear edges. These are the zig-zag edges on either side of the wrapper that are designed to tear apart quickly and easily.

• Don't get carried away in your passion: don't shred open the foil, and stay away from scissors, teeth, machetes, or any other sharp instrument to open a condom wrapper, or you could tear the condom itself!
• If it's your last condom and you destroy it, party's over!

Determine which way the condom is rolled. This can be difficult to do, particularly if you’re in the dark. Instead of trying to see which way the condom is rolled, feel it with your fingers:

• Placing one hand on either side, pinch the rolled ring of the condom between your thumb and fingers.

• Gently roll the condom in one direction with your fingers. If it resists rolling, this is not the direction in which you will want to unroll the condom over the penis.

• Gently roll the condom in the other direction with your fingers. If it begins to unroll, this is the direction in which you should unroll the condom over the penis.
• Cautionary tale: don't unroll more than one roll, as unraveling it will reduce the condom's efficacy—and make it frustratingly difficult to put on. Re-roll the condom after you’ve determined the proper unrolling direction.

Tips up! Make sure the reservoir at the tip of the condom is pointing in the right direction. This reservoir should already be on the outer tip of the condom but can sometimes become inverted during packaging. Make sure the reservoir is oriented so that the rest of the condom rolls away from it.

Lube it up. If the penis is uncircumcised, consider placing a small drop of water-based lubricant inside the reservoir. This can make the condom easier to apply to foreskin. Make sure this is a very small drop, as you don’t want to compete with the sperm for space inside the reservoir tip.

Make sure the penis is fully erect. A condom should always fit snugly over a penis, leaving no tight or baggy spots. If rolled over a penis that is not yet fully erect, it will fit awkwardly and be more likely to fall off or tear during sex.

• If more time is needed for a full erection, set the condom aside with the reservoir pointing up so that you know which way it should unroll. Pick it up again when you’re both ready.

Pinch the entire reservoir at the tip of the condom shut. This eliminates the possibility of creating an air pocket inside the condom when it is worn, reducing the chance of breakage and providing the semen with a place to go during ejaculation.

Roll the condom on. The condom should easily unroll down the length of the shaft. If it turns out that you are trying to put the condom on backwards, throw it away and start over. An erect penis produces fluid prior to ejaculation (called “pre-cum”) that can contain sperm. If a condom has been exposed to this fluid, flipping it over and re-applying it may cause pregnancy and/or the transmission of an STD. How you apply the condom will depend on whether or not the penis is circumcised.

• Circumcised penis: Pinching the reservoir shut with one hand, place the condom against the tip of the erect penis. With your other hand, push pubic hair out of the way if necessary, then gently roll the condom down the entire shaft of the penis, smoothing out any air bubbles that may appear.

• Uncircumcised penis: Pinching the reservoir shut with one hand, place the condom against the tip of the erect penis. With your other hand, push pubic hair out of the way if necessary, roll the condom slightly over the tip of the penis to get it started, then gently pull back the foreskin. Slide your first hand from the reservoir tip down to the rolled ring of the condom and roll it down the entire length of the shaft. Use one hand to hold the bottom of the condom in place at the bottom of the shaft and then push the foreskin forward inside the condom with the other hand. Smooth out any air bubbles if necessary.

Smooth lubricant over the condom if necessary. Sexual lubrication decreases the risk of damage to not only the condom, but also to those having sex. Some lubricants even contain spermicides that can help reduce the risk of pregnancy. If your condom isn’t already lubricated, apply it to both the condom and the other partner, particularly if you are engaging in anal sex.

• Do not over-apply lube, as friction is necessary for stimulation.
• Never apply an oil- or petroleum-based lubricant to a latex condom, as they can cause it to deteriorate. Water- and silicon-based lubricants are both safe to use with latex, but water-based lube washes off more easily and won’t stain your sheets.

Check the condom periodically during use for breaks. If a condom breaks or becomes loose during sex, replace it immediately and consider using emergency contraception such as the morning-after pill. The morning-after pill prevents pregnancy before it happens by delaying ovulation, blocking fertilization, or preventing an egg from implanting in the uterus; it is not an abortifacient.

Replace condom if alternating between different types of sex. If switching from anal to vaginal sex, for example, switch condoms to reduce the risk of infection. (Ex: e-coli from the rectum can cause bladder infections.)

Immediately after ejaculation, withdraw penis and remove condom. Grasp the bottom of the condom with your hand and withdraw, preventing the condom from slipping off or spilling. Do not allow the penis to go flaccid within the condom before withdrawal, as this can cause the condom to fall off and remain inside the partner.

Dispose of the condom discretely. Tie the open end in a knot to prevent spillage, wrap it in toilet paper or tissue, and throw it in a trash can.

TIPS

• Store condoms in the box in a cool, dry place. Make a note of the expiration date; the risk of breaking increases if condoms are outdated or not stored properly.
• You can use both male and female condoms depending on what best fits your lifestyle.

Health clinics distribute condoms for free to encourage safe sex. Condoms are also available at any supermarket or drugstore and can also be found in some bathroom vending machines.

• Some men don’t enjoy using condoms and will try to avoid using them. If your male partner is reluctant to put on a condom, offering to do it for him will make it harder for him to refuse. Condoms can reduce male sensitivity. Since this can also increase the duration of sex, try to use it as a selling point.‌

• If you or your partner has an allergy to latex, get the alternative polyurethane condoms.

Condoms come in many sizes and styles and are geared for different uses.
• If a condom doesn't fit, find a replacement.
• If you are engaging in anal sex, buy stronger condoms designed for this purpose.
• If applying a condom is throwing off your groove, make it sexy! Find novelty condoms to play with: colored, textured, glow-in-the-dark condoms are fun and sexy. The other party can also apply the condom to his or her partner in a sexy manner.
• If you are using a condom for oral sex, try flavored condoms and lubes. A flavored condom will work when there's nothing else around but, to prevent health problems, avoid alternating between oral and other forms of intercourse without first switching condom. Note that some flavoring contains sugar, which can catalyze yeast infections. Look for a manufacturer that doesn’t use a sugar-based sweetener.
• If you're unsure if the lubricant you're using is water- or oil-based, a good rule of thumb is that any product you might find in your home for personal care use (Vaseline, lotion, aloe, etc.) is oil-based.

• If you and your partner have both tested negative for STDs, after 6 months of monogamous protected sex, and you are using another form of birth control, you can have sex without a condom! However, just because you can't get an STD doesn't mean that you can't get pregnant.

• Remember that natural skin condoms will protect against pregnancy but not STDs.

WARNINGS

• Never flush a condom down the toilet, which can cause it to overflow. Having someone remove your used condom from your plumbing is far more embarrassing than wrapping it up and throwing it someplace inconspicuous.

• Never reuse a condom. If you take the condom off, don't put it back on again, even if there doesn't seem to be any fluid.

• Remember not to mix oil-based lubrication of any kind (not just store-bought) with latex condoms! Any oil-based substance can very quickly weaken latex and make it break. This includes hand lotion, Vaseline, cold cream, baby oil, and even chapstick.

• Don't put a condom on if the package was already nicked or ripped before use.

• If improperly used, a condom offers little protection. Even if properly used, there is a small possibility of pregnancy or transmission of sexually-transmitted diseases.

• Mutual masturbation can spread STDs if you get fluids on your hands. This is unlikely but still possible.

• Condoms that are made of animal membrane do not protect you as well as others. Stick to latex or polyurethane, or talk to your doctor about your other options.

• Novelty condoms, such as glow in the dark condoms, might not protect against pregnancy or STD transmission, but flavored, non-novelty ones will. Check the box for details.

• Unless you're a frequent flyer, don't keep a condom in your wallet "just in case". Body heat and pressure will accelerate the breakdown of the condom in the wallet.

• Do not try to be extra safe by using more than one condom; this causes extra friction which will make the condoms more likely to break.

• Do not put a condom on you or your partner's tongue, or in your mouth as a preventative measure during oral sex. To do so could result in asphyxiation and death. The male condom is designed for the penis only.

Culled from www.wikihow.com

Male Breast Cancer

How to Recognize Male Breast Cancer

Knowing the signs and symptoms of male breast cancer could save your life or the life of a loved one. The best chances for treatment and ultimately survival occur when the disease is found in its earliest stages. If you are experiencing any symptoms or persistent breast changes you should report them to your physician.

Lie down and place your right arm behind your head. The exam should be performed when lying down because the breast tissue spreads evenly over the chest wall and is as thin as possible, making it much easier to feel all the breast tissue.

Use the pads of the 3 middle fingers on your left hand to feel for lumps in the right breast. Use overlapping circular motions of the finger pads to feel the breast tissue.

Use 3 different levels of pressure to feel all the breast tissue. Light pressure is needed to feel the tissue closest to the skin; medium pressure to feel a little deeper; and firm pressure to feel the tissue closest to the chest and ribs. A firm ridge in the lower curve of each breast is normal. If you're not sure how hard to press, talk with your doctor or nurse. Use each pressure level to feel the breast tissue before moving on to the next spot.

Move around the breast in an up and down pattern starting the underarm and moving across the breast to the middle of the chest bone (sternum or breastbone). Be sure to check the entire breast area going down until you feel only ribs and up to the neck or collar bone.

Repeat the exam on your left breast, using the finger pads of the right hand.

Examine each underarm while sitting or standing up and with your arm only slightly raised so you can easily feel in this area.

TIPS

The most common signs of breast cancer for both men and women are a lump, mass or thickening in the breast. Frequently the lump is painless. Other male breast cancer symptoms include but are not limited to:

• Skin dimpling or puckering.
• Development of a new inversion/retraction (the nipple turns inward) or indentation of the nipple.
‌• Nipple discharge.

HOW TO HAVE SEX TO GET PREGNANT

Have sex for up to 5 days before ovulation

A woman’s time of ovulation is the point in her menstrual cycle during which she is most likely to become pregnant. If you want to get pregnant as soon as possible, optimizing the timing of sexual intercourse can up the odds of conceiving during your upcoming menstrual cycle. Most women are actually infertile for the majority of the month, so don’t miss this important fertile window.
• Because sperm can survive in the womb for several days, sexual intercourse prior to ovulation can increase the chance of pregnancy.

Have sex frequently

If you are not in a hurry to get pregnant, having sex 2 or 3 times each week may result in pregnancy within several months. During and before ovulation, aim for daily intercourse. Although healthy men generate sperm quickly and often have enough sperm to enable conception with multiple ejaculations per day, there is little evidence that having sex more than once per day increases the chances of getting pregnant.
• In some cases, having sex only prior to ovulation and focusing solely on getting pregnant can actually reduce the likelihood of making a baby. Increased stress levels and partnership troubles may cause this reduction in fertility.

Do not use spermicides, lubricants, or chemical stimuli

Products aimed at enhancing pleasure or preventing conception should be avoided during intercourse if you are trying to achieve pregnancy. If possible, avoid even basic lubricants unless sex is painful without it. If you must use lubricant, opt for canola oil, which does not interfere with sperm mobility and vitality like many marketed sexual lubricants.

Do not douche

Douching can upset the natural balance in the vagina and may interfere with the environment your body needs to help move sperm to your eggs, and to enable the fertilized egg to implant in the uterine wall.

CONSIDER TRADITIONAL METHODS OF ENCOURAGING CONCEPTION

Although many folkloric tips for improving the chances of getting pregnant are not supported by scientific research, it may not hurt to try.
• Try to achieve orgasm after your partner ejaculates into you. The female orgasm helps pull sperm into the cervix, which may facilitate the movement of your partner’s sperm.
• Lay on your back or angle your body with your knees in the air and your head on a pillow to potentially increase the chances of sperm entering your cervix and fallopian tubes.

KEEPING BACK COMBED HAIR HEALTHY

Try to substitute a comb for a ball-tipped paddle brush when back combing. The wider-spaced bristles won't snag your hair as much as a comb, which prevents knotting and breaking. It'll also promote shine & healthy growth, and the static will give a generally fuller volume.

Use a good shampoo. A moisture-sealing shampoo can help repair and prevent split ends.

Use a good conditioner. Try to get one that works well with the shampoo you are using.

Don't use hairspray after backcombing. Get a decent volumizing mousse and crumple a golf-ball sized splodge through damp, freshly washed (and well conditioned) hair. Leave hair to dry, then tease as usual. The mousse will give just enough coarseness for the volume to hold, but not at the price of the shine/strength/condition of your hair. Hairspray can often weaken hair and make it prone to breaking. If you prefer, squirt a mist of gel spray on damp hair.

Try trimming a few inches off the bottom of your hair. Not only will it get rid of the split ends, Your hair will feel thicker and healthier instantly. If you style your hair a lot, regular trims are important.

Always brush your hair out at night. Start at the ends and work upwards, smoothing out a tiny section at a time. This technique is less painful and damaging than dragging a brush straight through.

Try and backcomb only the roots. Mid-to-end often looks unflattering and bedraggled, and will sag into a massive tangle as the day wears on. Backcombing the roots will give an all-over healthy fullness, slims down a round face and is less prone to breaks and knots because of the scalp's natural oils.

Wear rollers overnight, gently brush the curls out and backcomb where you want more volume. Use the tongs occasionally if you want ringlets or more defined curls, or if you are too tired to put my rollers in!

Cut back on the heated appliances, if at all possible. If your hair's beginning to look a bit sparse due to backcombing/teasing, try to cut back on the heated appliances. You can create most of the same styles experimenting with plaiting, rags and rollers; This also gives a boost of natural volume so you won't need so much backcombing.

If you wear your hair straight, blow-dry with a flat brush and then secure in a lose ponytail with a scrunchie overnight. This helps to prevent bedhead!

Invest in a decent heat protecting spray and try to use irons with ceramic plates.

Take supplements. Vitamin A keeps the oils in your scalp healthy, and vitamin B12 is prevents hair-loss and thinning, and promotes healthy growth. You can get vitamin tablets dirt cheap from supermarkets; and slurp up zillions of broccoli, carrots, spinach and dairy which are really high in hair-friendly vitamins.

INCREASING HAIR VOLUME FOR MEN

Men who want to add volume to their hair may have any one of several reasons for doing so. Often, the idea is to present a more youthful appearance that helps the man be more attractive and appear more vital in the workplace. At times, the motivation is to make the best possible use of thinning hair and create the impression of fullness as a way of feeling a little younger. In some cases, the goal is to add hair volume for a special occasion such as a costume party. Whatever the reason, there are a few ways to add some volume to the hair in a very short period of time.

Try a volumizing shampoo and conditioner

There are several products on the market that can help to plump up thinning hair, usually by including ingredients that help coat each follicle and add a little more body to the hair. When paired with the use of a blow dryer, the result can be a fair amount of volume even with thin hair.

Change your hairstyle

While the idea of cutting thinning hair may seem like an odd way to add volume, the fact is that the right cut will make the hair look thicker. Consider a style that involves layering and allows the ends of the follicles to have some bounce rather than be weighed down and flat. Many men who wear longer styles find that they have more volume when adopting a shorter style, and enjoy the relatively easy care necessary to keep the hair looking good.

Use hair styling products

Some gels and hair sprays can be used to create more volume even when there's not a lot of hair to work with. While not a miracle cure, proper use of sprays and gels will provide some amount of temporary volume, as well as aid in keeping the hair in place.

Mix some vinegar and mayonnaise

According to anecdotal evidence, this combination can help add volume to thinning hair. Combine the ingredients, and then apply liberally to the hair, rubbing the mixture into the scalp. Leave in place for several minutes before washing out and shampooing as usual.

Pick up some hair paint

One final option for thinning hair is to use a paint product formulated for use on hair. Normally available in aerosol containers, the product is sprayed on using the same general approach as hair spray. The paint clings to the hair follicles, effectively plumping them up and adding texture to the hair.

TIPS

Thinning hair may be hereditary or it may be a sign of a developing health issue. Before writing off the loss of hair to nature, have a checkup and make sure there are no health problems causing the hair loss. ‌

Depending on how thin the hair happens to be, it may be necessary to use more than one strategy to achieve the look desired. For example, combining the use of volumizing shampoo with hair spray may be the ideal combination.

Experiment with different combinations until you find the best overall approach for your situation.

How to Stop Premature Ejaculation

Premature ejaculation, or ejaculating before you or your partner wanted to, is a common problem that strikes most men at some point in their lives. Several factors can influence when ejaculation occurs, but it can be controlled with some forethought or, in extreme cases, medical intervention. Here are some strategies for help, listed from easiest to most difficult.

METHOD ONE: QUICK FIXES

Wear a condom

It sounds too simple to be true, but it works for a lot of men. Condoms reduce stimulation for most men, which should prolong the time before ejaculation.

• Steer clear of condoms that are marketed as extra thin. You can always upgrade to a brand that allows more stimulation later.

• Some condoms are coated with a slight numbing gel on the inside. This can help you put off ejaculation for longer without causing numbness to your partner. (Just make sure you know which side is where when you put it on.)

Use an analgesic (numbing) cream

The upside is that you'll feel slightly less sensation, which will delay ejaculation. The downside is your partner will suffer a loss of sensation, too. If you're interested in this option, make sure you clear it with your partner first.

Apply strategic pressure

Here are two quick ways to delay ejaculation in the middle of intercourse:

• Perineum pressure: Pressing on the perineum, a spot midway between your scrotum and your anus, will help to stop ejaculation because this spot reaches through to the prostate gland. It is the prostate that contracts and expands during orgasm and then expels the ejaculation fluid. Ask your partner to apply this loving pressure for you.

• Testes tug: When a man nears orgasm his scrotum rises up closer to his body. You can delay ejaculation by gently pulling your testes down and away from your body. Your partner can also do this for you.

METHOD TWO: TECHNIQUE CHANGES

Slow down intercourse

If you're feeling pressured to perform, you might rush to ejaculation before you're ready. Try these tips for bringing your anxiety down a notch:

• Take climaxing out of your expectations. Instead of viewing intercourse only as a means of achieving orgasm, reframe it as relaxing, pleasurable time with your partner that you'll enjoy regardless of ejaculation. Discuss this new mindset with your partner, so that he or she can stop pressuring you, intentionally or not.

• Think nonsexual thoughts. If you notice yourself getting too excited, stop and turn your attention to something decidedly unsexy, like rush-hour traffic, smarmy politicians, or the old classic, baseball. Only dwell on it long enough to give yourself a short break from arousal, maybe 5 to 10 seconds, then refocus your attention on your partner.

Try edging

Edging, or orgasm control, is the practice of maintaining a high level of sexual arousal while delaying ejaculation. It takes practice, but it gets easier over time.

Here are two methods recommended by the National Institutes of Health to stop premature ejaculation:-

• Stop-and-start method:- Have intercourse as usual until you feel yourself coming uncomfortably close to orgasm. Immediately and abruptly cease all stimulation for 30 seconds, then start again. Repeat this pattern until you're ready to ejaculate.

• Squeezing method:- Have intercourse as usual until you feel like orgasm is seconds away. Abruptly stop other stimulation and gently squeeze your thumb and forefinger around the part of the penis where the glans meets the shaft (or your partner could do this). After squeezing for a few seconds, pause all stimulation for another 30 seconds before resuming intercourse. Repeat this pattern until you're ready to ejaculate.

Change positions

Some intercourse positions put less pressure on the glans (or the most sensitive part of the penis). Here's what to do:
• Try "passive" positions:- Lie beneath your female partner, or try a side-by-side (or spooning) position.
• Avoid "active" positions:- Missionary and rear-entry positions place the most stimulation and friction on the glans, so consider taking them off the menu for now.

METHOD THREE: LONG-TERM FIXES

Do PC muscle exercises

Flexing and strengthening your pubococcygeus (PC) muscle can help you exert more control over ejaculation. (Note that these are also called Kegel exercises, which you might have heard about women doing. The muscle is the same in both sexes.)
• Locate your PC muscle :- Put one or two fingers right behind your testicles. Pretend that you are urinating, then try to stop the flow with a quick muscle contraction. That muscle you just used to stop the flow from the bladder is your PC muscle.
• Flex the muscle regularly:- Try to do 10 to 20 squeezes in a set, 2 or 3 times a day. Do a set whenever you're bored or stationary — like when you're sitting at your desk or in traffic. No one will be able to see that you're doing them.
Squeeze your PC muscle when you feel ejaculation coming on. Once the muscle is strong enough, you should be able to hold it off.

METHOD FOUR: MEDICAL INTERVENTION

Know when to see a doctor :- If you routinely ejaculate less than a minute and a half after beginning vaginal intercourse, and none of the above fixes have worked, it might be time to see a medical professional. You can visit a sex therapist, psychologist, or psychiatrist for help.

Know what treatment options to expect :- The treatment that your doctor recommends will depend on your age, overall health and sexual history, but here's a rundown of the most common routes:
• A short-acting SSRI: Researchers suspect serotonin has an effect on ejaculation, and have found a certain class of selective serotonin reuptake inhibitors can help delay it. Dapoxetine is usually prescribed for this; FDA approval is pending in the US.
• Tramadol: A mild oral analgesic, Tramadol's been shown to increase serotonin levels, which can lead to greater ejaculation control.
• Clomipramine: A tri-cyclic anti-depressant, Clomipramine has been used to treat premature ejaculation for decades.
• Intracavernous vasodilator therapy: In extreme cases, your doctor might suggest injecting a vasodilator directly into your penis before intercourse. Though this is usually a successful option, it's not something to start lightly.

TIPS

• Keep in mind that erectile problems come and go, and this issue is most likely not permanent.
•‌ Additionally, most men gain more control over ejaculating as they get older. If you're still young, try not to worry too much — you'll probably grow out of premature ejaculation.

WARNINGS

Do not let your anxiety about premature ejaculation stop you having intercourse. Intercourse can be beneficial to people by lowering stress levels and has even been found to reduce the risks of prostate cancer in males.

IMPROVING YOUR PROSTATE HEALTH

The prostate is a small gland found in men, near their bladders. Many men experience prostate problems, and as they get older it is important to watch for signs of prostate cancer. There are many lifestyle changes that can be made in order to protect yourself from issues with your prostate. Be sure you know about any family history with cancer or prostate problems. Improve prostate health by eating healthy foods, keeping your weight in check and visiting your doctor regularly.

Eat well

Make sure your diet includes a variety of fruits, vegetables, lean protein and whole grains.
Include foods with a lot of lycopene, such as red peppers and tomatoes. Lycopene is what makes fruit and vegetables red, and has been proven as a cancer-fighting ingredient.
Eat fish with high levels of omega-3 acids, including salmon and tuna. These foods will help your prostate as well as your heart and immune system.
Increase the amount of soy you eat. The properties of soy, which is found in many vegetarian dishes, fight cancer. Trading cow's milk for soy milk is one way to get more soy into your diet.

Lose weight

If you are overweight, get yourself on a diet and exercise plan that will get you in a healthy range. Maintaining a healthy weight will keep your prostate healthy.

See your doctor regularly

Have your prostate examined every year. Talk to your doctor about any issues in your family history as it pertains to your prostate.
Discuss any symptoms you have experienced, including incontinence, impotence or if you have noticed an enlarged prostate.


Take zinc supplements

Most men do not get enough zinc in their diets, and supplements can help keep your prostate healthy. Zinc deficiencies have led to enlarged prostates. Take 50 to 100 milligrams of zinc per day to reduce an enlarged prostate. Be sure to discuss any supplements you are taking or thinking about taking with your physician.

Perform kegel exercises

Tighten the muscles around your scrotum and anus for a few seconds, then release. Do this exercise in 10 repetitions 5 times a day to improve your prostate health.

Try taking saw palmetto berry

This supplement has received mixed reviews from users and the medical field, so talk to your doctor before you try it. Some people believe it reduces inflammation and prostate enlargement.

Avoid alcohol

Limit the amount of caffeine you consume. Try to have only 1 cup of coffee per day.

Know the symptoms of a potential prostate problem

These include blood in your urine, pain when you urinate or have sex, low back pain or always feeling like you need to urinate. ‌

WARNINGS

Make sure you do not ignore prostate problems. If an enlarged prostate is not corrected, it can lead to more serious problems including urinary tract infections, kidney and bladder stones and other problems with your kidneys and bladder.

UNDERSTANDING THE MALE MENOPAUSE

How to Understand Male Menopause

Women may not be alone when it comes to suffering from menopause-like symptoms, and the medical community is now debating the emergence of what is being referred to as male menopause. You can learn how to understand male menopause by reviewing its time frame, its symptoms and its treatment options to determine if you might need to consult your physician for help for you or a loved one.

Reported Cause of Male Menopause

Doctors describe male menopause as a reduction in androgen, also known as testosterone, as men get older. This condition is also referred to as low testosterone. Low testosterone is associated with advanced age, but it can also occur with some diseases such as diabetes. Most men can produce sperm very late in life, so male menopause is a much more gradual process than female menopause, which occurs over a distinct, much briefer time period.

SYMPTOMS OF MALE MENOPAUSE

Males going through male menopause report feelings of weakness, depression, fatigue and sexual issues. In regards to sexual function, your testes may appear smaller, you may have a reduced amount of sexual desire, infertility and/or you may experience fewer spontaneous erections like those that occur in the middle of the night. The low testosterone levels affiliated with male menopause can sometimes cause insomnia.

Physical changes affiliated with male menopause can include a reduction in muscle bulk, decreased bone density and increased body fat as symptoms. Those affected may have swollen or tender breasts and/or experience hair loss. Hot flashes and loss of energy have also been described with male menopause.

Emotional changes that may occur with male menopause can include decreased motivation and/or self-confidence. Sadness, depression and loss of concentration may also occur.

POTENTIAL DIAGNOSIS

Visit your doctor to discuss symptoms and get an exam. Your doctor may run other tests to rule out any other conditions. Specific to the male menopause, your doctor can order blood tests to test your hormone level, including a blood testosterone level test.

TREATMENT

If your doctor determines that your testosterone levels are low, he or she may prescribe testosterone replacement therapy.

Testosterone replacement therapy does come with potential risks and side effects, though, including a higher risk of prostate cancer.

Alternately, your doctor may suggest lifestyle changes instead of, or in conjunction with, your hormone replacement therapy. These lifestyle changes may include an exercise program or a new diet.

TIPS

"Andropause" is another word that has been used synonymously with male menopause. Other terms to describe it include androgen deficiency of the aging male, testosterone deficiency and late-onset hypogonadism.

WARNINGS

The signs and symptoms described may be a result of other conditions such as a thyroid disorder, depression or excessive alcohol use, so consult a doctor for a formal diagnosis.

MENSTRUATION; from Girl to Woman (Your first period? What you should know)

Beginning with Menarche

Menstruation is a major point in puberty for girls with menarche - that very first period - marking another event in the transition from child to woman. This is the point when all the parts become a whole - the reproductive system has matured. In some cultures, a very big deal is made of menarche. Girls are treated royally for the day or week and they join the ranks of other women in their community who have transitioned into womanhood. Regardless whether everyone or no one celebrates this rite of passage, a young girl knows she's changing. And, like a lot of other changes that come along with puberty, menstruation can be confusing. To take away the mystery, read on.

Puberty usually begins around age eight and it is the time when hormones stimulate new growth in the body and a girl's mind goes through some interesting changes. New physical development such as breast budding occurs and about two years or so after the beginning of breast development, she'll have her first menstrual period. Often, about six months prior to the first period there may be an increase of clear vaginal discharge, which is nothing to worry about unless there is a strong odor or it causes itching or irritation.

The Female Reproductive System

The organs of the female reproductive system include the ovaries, fallopian tubes and uterus. The oval-shaped ovaries sit on either side of the uterus in the lower abdomen. They are filled with hundreds of thousands of eggs (ovum). The fallopian tubes are two long, thin tubes that attach to the top of the uterus and open over the ovaries in order to catch a mature egg when it is released by an ovary every month. The uterus is a pear-shaped muscle that will become the place where a fertilized egg will implant, grow and develop into a baby. This incredible muscle has the power to expand with the growing baby and to contract in order to expel the baby when it is time for birth.

How Hormones Direct Menstruation

The menstrual cycle is a natural function of the female reproductive system. A very complex interaction of glands within the brain and body cause the release of certain hormones to instigate menstruation. Two of the glands, the pituitary and hypothalamus, are in the brain. The thyroid gland is also implicated in the process in terms of release of thyroid stimulating hormone. If there is too much of this hormone released, it affects the ability of a woman to hold a pregnancy - often leading to miscarriage.

The hypothalamus gland releases a hormone called gonadotropin releasing hormone (GnRH) which triggers the pituitary gland to release follicle stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) that stimulate the ovaries to produce estrogen. The estrogen encourages the uterus to build a lining for the reception of a fertilized egg. The luteinizing hormone from the pituitary gland causes the ovary to release one mature egg into the fallopian tube. This process is called ovulation. After ovulation, progesterone is released to thicken the uterine lining even more. If the egg is not fertilized by a sperm cell, then it does not remain in the uterus. Progesterone and estrogen levels fall and cause the lining of the uterus to slough off and menstruation occurs to clear the uterus in order for the entire process to begin again the following month.

The Timing is Different for Each Person Puberty can begin for some girls earlier than it does for others. The same holds true for menstruation. Some girls begin menstruating as early as ten years old while others don't start until they are 15. A menstrual cycle, which is the number of days between the first day of bleeding and the next period, can range in time from 21 days to 35 days. Each person will have their own cycle and, as long as the cycle is regular, it is right for you. It usually takes a couple of years after menstruation begins for a cycle to be fully developed. Until then, menstruation may be a bit erratic. It is nothing to worry about, it will be fine. However, it is a good idea to keep a record of menstruation so there is a general idea of how it will unfold.

The other part of menstruation is the number of days of blood flow. As surprising as it sounds, the actual blood loss is about two or three tablespoons - even though it seems like a lot more. A period can last from just two or three days to seven days, with the heaviest flow being at the beginning of the period.

Cramping and PMS

Cramping and emotional upheavals are common around the time of menstruation, thought to be caused by prostaglandin, the hormone that causes the uterus to contract. Cramping can be a dull ache or sometimes more intense. Very severe cramping needs to be checked by a medical professional. There may be a problem that can be rectified if it is diagnosed early.

Just prior to the onset of menstruation there may be a few days where everything is wrong and nothing seems right. Crying at the drop of a hat, impatient, upset, and feeling sad are all part of the emotional impact of hormones. Along with this, there may be swelling of the breasts, bloating and a general feeling of blah. It's all part of the process called premenstrual syndrome. Many women experience it to varying degrees. Be kind to yourself, get a lot of rest, eat well, and know that this too shall pass.

Personal Care and Hygiene - Genital care for females and Vagina infections

Many females have received the false message from society that their genitals are "dirty" and that they shouldn't talk about them. Because of these messages, which can come from media as well as parents, girls are under the impression that any smell or discharge from their vagina is abnormal. It is perfectly natural to have a slight sweet smell that is non-offensive. A strong, foul odor indicates a possible infection. With treatment, the infection will go away and so will the strong odor. Vaginal discharge is a necessary part of the body's regular functioning. Normal discharge, usually clear to white, is part of the body's self-cleaning process. As discharge leaves the body, it takes bacteria with it, which helps keep vaginal infections at bay. Discharge is also a natural lubricant, which aids in sexual intercourse.

The genitals are complex, life-giving organs with many functions. Knowledge is a key factor in developing a healthy attitude about the genitalia and realizing that the genitals are not "dirty" and are basically just other parts of the body. Understanding the normal functions of the genitals also helps a person feel more comfortable with her body and stay healthy.

CHARACTERISTICS OF ABNORMAL VAGINAL DISCHARGE

• Bad odor
• Itching or irritation
• Thick, like soft cheese
• Creamy or frothy
• Strange color, such as green, gray, or yellow
• Bloody (not during menstruation)

WASHING THE GENITAL AREA

It is important to regularly wash the genital area, including the anus, to help ward off infections and bad odor. Since the genital area is moist and warm, bacteria can grow easily. Excretions from the vagina, perspiration, and urine can build up making it even easier for the bacteria to grow. These bacteria can cause urinary tract infections (UTI's) or vaginal infections. Cleaning the genital area with a mild soap and water on a regular basis will help control the bacteria growth and limit infections.

What to Wash

The area that a girl should be concerned with washing is the external genital area. The internal genitals have their own self-cleaning processes. The external female genital area, or vulva, has large lips called labia majora that protect the genital area. These lips have sweat glands that produce perspiration and glands that secrete oil. If a girl has reached puberty, these lips will also have hair on them.

Beneath the labia majora are smaller lips called labia minora. In some people, the labia minora are large enough that they poke through the labia majora. This is a normal occurrence. The labia minora also contain oil and scent glands. Inside the labia minora are the openings of the urethra and vagina. Urine is expelled from the urethra. The clitoris, a small, pea-like organ that is sensitive to the touch, lies in front of the labia minora. The anus, which is not considered part of the vulva, should be washed as well. It lies in back past the lip region.

The external genitalia and the anus can be washed using a wash cloth or fingers. This can be done daily in a shower or bath or standing near a sink. Special care should be taken to open the labias and wash between them. Then rinse the area with water and towel dry.

Be Sure to Wipe Properly

Besides washing the external genital area, it is important to wipe it with toilet paper after urinating or having a bowel movement. Solid body waste expelled by the anus contains bacteria that can cause vaginal and urinary tract infections. Therefore, the proper wiping method is from the front to back. This is so the bacteria from the anal area do not make their way to the vaginal and urethral area. A person should always wash her hands after going to the bathroom.

VAGINAL INFECTIONS

Vaginal infection, or vaginitis, is most often caused by sexual contact. However, poor personal hygiene can put one at greater risk of contracting a vaginal or urinary tract infection. The following are some of the most common vaginal and urinary tract infections that can be affected by poor hygiene.

TRICHOMONIASIS

Trichomoniasis, also referred to as trich or TV, is an infection caused by a protozoan called Trichomonas vaginalis. The symptoms include a discharge that is foul-smelling, frothy, and greenish-yellow; it causes severe itching, painful and frequent urination, and, sometimes, pain in the lower abdomen.

YEAST INFECTION

A yeast infection, or candidiasis, occurs when the yeast fungus called Candida albicans, which is normally found in the vagina and anus, grows above normal levels. The result is a thick, white, cottage cheese-like discharge with itching, redness, and burning.

GARDNERELLA

Gardnerella is an another bacterium that is normally found in the vagina. An infection occurs when the amount of gardnerella bacteria increases, causing symptoms such as a gray or yellow, fishy-smelling, creamy discharge and mild itching and burning. The smell may actually become worse after washing since soap reduces acidity and bacteria grow better in a less acidic environment.

URINARY TRACT INFECTIONS

Urinary tract infections (UTI's) can occur when bacteria from the anus or vagina make their way into the urethra and bladder. Urinating helps to flush some of the bacteria from the urinary tract, but sometimes the bacteria left behind can cause an infection. Sexual intercourse, wiping from back to front, or irritants used in a bath (such as bubble bath or bath salts) are common causes of UTI's. The symptoms include painful and frequent urination, burning on urination, blood in the urine, and a fever.

Extra Care During Menstruation

During menstruation, the lining of the uterus is shedding and menstrual blood comes out of the vagina. While menstruation can be messy, it is easily controlled with a tampon or pad. However, once the blood is exposed to the air, it can produce an odor. A strong odor should not occur unless the person does not bathe often enough. To minimize odor and staining of clothes, washing the genital area at least once a day is recommended. It is also recommended to change a tampon every four to six hours (a pad every two to four hours), which will help control the odor and the collection of blood.

In the past, women would use cloth to collect their menstrual fluid. Some would wear cloth as an outer protection; others would bundle up the cloth and place it inside their vaginas for inner protection. Today, there are sanitary products for collecting menstrual fluid that are more absorbent, comfortable, and convenient. These products include tampons and pads. Choosing the kind of protection to use is a personal choice. Some women use only pads, some use tampons during the day and pads at night, and others use solely tampons. Pantiliners, small pads, are also available for light flows, discharge, or use with a tampon.

TAMPONS

Tampons are worn inside the vagina. Both non-virgins and virgins can use them. Tampons cannot get lost inside the body or be pushed up into the uterus (the canal—called the cervical canal—to the uterus is too small for a tampon to fit through). They are made of absorbent cotton that is either scented or unscented and have a string attached for easy removal. (The deodorant tampons may cause irritation in some women.) Tampons are meant to be used only for menstrual flow, not vaginal discharge. They can come with or without applicators. For greater protection, some women wear pantiliners when they use tampons. Tampons should be changed every four to six hours, and not worn more than eight hours. Otherwise, bacteria can build up in the vagina, which can cause toxic shock syndrome (TSS).

TSS is a rare, noncontagious disease that can be fatal. It is caused by the Staphylococcus aureus bacterium, which produces a toxin resulting in symptoms that include a sudden high fever, vomiting, diarrhea, headache, rash that looks and peels like a sunburn, achiness, and dizziness. If a person using a tampon experiences any of these symptoms, she should remove her tampon right away and contact her doctor.

Researchers have found that the risk of contracting TSS is linked to the absorbency of the tampon. The higher the absorbency the higher the risk for contracting TSS. To judge the right absorbency, a woman should monitor the amount of blood found in her tampon after she removes it. If the tampon is completely red, a person should use a tampon with a higher absorbency; if the tampon has white areas, a person should use a tampon with a lower absorbency. A way to lower the risk of contracting TSS is to switch between using a tampon and using a pad. An easy way to do this is to wear tampons during the day and pads at night.

PADS

Pads are worn outside the body. When they were first introduced, women had to use belts and pins to keep the pads in place. The belts and pins were uncomfortable, unattractive, and sometimes showed through clothes. Pads today have adhesive strips that allow a woman to attach a pad to her underwear. Today's pads are also more absorbent, allowing them to be thinner and more effective. Some even have wings that wrap around the crotch of underwear, which gives greater protection. Pads can be unscented or deodorant. The deodorant can cause irritation in some women; however, many like the deodorant products, believing they help mask odor.

DOUCHES AND FEMININE HYGIENE SPRAYS

Douches and feminine hygiene sprays are products that work to mask or limit odor or wetness. Douches are sometimes used in the treatment of certain vaginal infections. They are liquid solutions that are squeezed into the vagina. A common solution is vinegar and water. Feminine sprays are deodorant sprays for the vaginal area. Doctors have warned that these feminine products are unnecessary (unless used for medical reasons) and can cause more harm than good. This is because douches and feminine sprays can change the natural acidic balance of the vagina, which can cause bacteria to grow and put a woman at risk for infection.

Be Aware of What to Wear and Other Precautions

Another part of good hygiene is being aware of what to wear and making sure that anything that touches the vaginal area is clean. A girl should wear cotton underwear or at least ones with a cotton crotch. Underwear should be changed daily and after it becomes soiled or wet. It should also be absorbent and well ventilated. Tight or nylon underwear, tight pants, or pantyhose (most are available with cotton crotches that help increase ventilation) cause greater perspiration, which can allow bacteria to grow. Sitting around in a wet bathing suit will also contribute to bacteria growth. Towels should not be shared because they can pass along bacteria. Toilet seats are also breeding grounds for bacteria. It is wise to cover public toilet seats with toilet paper before sitting down. Taking these precautions can help lower the risk of infection and keep the genitals healthy.

HOW TO GET PREGNANT; the basic steps, tips and warnings

STOP USING CONTRACEPTIVES

Some birth control methods have a longer "re-adjustment" period after stopping than others, so the time it takes for a woman's body to be again ready to become pregnant after discontinuing contraception varies. Many birth control methods make it difficult for some women to conceive for several months after they discontinue regular use.

If you have an implanted contraceptive, such as an IUD, you need to see a health professional to have it removed. Getting off of birth control may enable you to become pregnant almost immediately, but take caution to prevent sexually transmitted infections if you previously relied on barrier methods for protection.

EVALUATE YOUR PHYSICAL HEALTH

Most women find it easier to conceive when they are in good general health. This includes being at a healthy weight, adequately addressing any infections or chronic illnesses, and speaking with a health professional about improving physical wellbeing.

If you currently have unaddressed diabetes, high blood pressure, significant extra body weight, bacterial or viral infections, mental health issues, or other serious health concerns, you may be able to improve your chances of conceiving by first resolving your health issues. In some cases, pre-existing health conditions can be aggravated or significantly worsened by pregnancy. Visit a health professional to make sure you are healthy enough for pregnancy and can adequately monitor your condition throughout the pre-conception and pregnancy phases.

If you are postmenopausal (you have stopped menstruating completely) or if you have had a surgery that removed your ovaries or tied your fallopian tubes, you will be unable to get pregnant.

HAVE SEX

With the exception of certain assisted fertility methods, getting pregnant requires having unprotected sexual intercourse. Pregnancy arises from the union of male and female sex cells; the sperm and egg must meet and travel down the Fallopian tubes to implant on the wall of the woman’s uterus. Without the introduction of sperm into a woman’s vagina, a natural pregnancy cannot be achieved.

UNDERSTAND YOUR MENSTRUAL CYCLE

Track your menstrual cycle

Use a calendar to take note of the day your period starts and ends each month. Half the battle for achieving a natural pregnancy may be learning about your body. Women are fertile for only a few days during each menstrual cycle. Knowing how to identify those days with over the counter tests or symptom tracking can help you target your sexual activity and get pregnant sooner. If you have regular cycles, you can often estimate the time of ovulation by dividing your cycle in half. For example, if your period usually lasts 28 days, you will likely ovulate around day 14 of your cycle (14 days after you begin menstruating). If you have a longer cycle, you may ovulate as late as 20 days after your period began.

Test for ovulation

• Most pharmacies and drug stores sell ovulation test kits and tracking systems over the counter (without a prescription). Many can be used just like a pregnancy test, while others may come with additional hormone tests or ovulation calendar tools. If you want to track your cycle without tests, you can track your fertility through temperature and vaginal discharge.

• When your vaginal discharge is clear and stretchy, like raw egg whites, you are most likely fertile and should plan on having sex daily for 3 to 5 days from the day you noticed this consistency in your discharge. Once the discharge becomes cloudy and drier, you are less likely to conceive.

• Track your basal body temperature (BBT) daily by plotting your temperature when you wake up each morning to identify the days you are most likely ovulating. Look for a gradual or sudden rise in temperature (between 0.5 and 1.6 degrees F).
Fertility is highest during the two to three days before your basal temperature rises so if you can observe any month-to-month patterns in when your temperature rises, you can predict the best time to conceive.

• Keep your stress under control:- Illness and stress can both affect the timing of ovulation, making it difficult to predict.

HOW TO HAVE SEX TO GET PREGNANT

Have sex for up to 5 days before ovulation

A woman’s time of ovulation is the point in her menstrual cycle during which she is most likely to become pregnant. If you want to get pregnant as soon as possible, optimizing the timing of sexual intercourse can up the odds of conceiving during your upcoming menstrual cycle. Most women are actually infertile for the majority of the month, so don’t miss this important fertile window.
• Because sperm can survive in the womb for several days, sexual intercourse prior to ovulation can increase the chance of pregnancy.

Have sex frequently

If you are not in a hurry to get pregnant, having sex 2 or 3 times each week may result in pregnancy within several months. During and before ovulation, aim for daily intercourse. Although healthy men generate sperm quickly and often have enough sperm to enable conception with multiple ejaculations per day, there is little evidence that having sex more than once per day increases the chances of getting pregnant.
• In some cases, having sex only prior to ovulation and focusing solely on getting pregnant can actually reduce the likelihood of making a baby. Increased stress levels and partnership troubles may cause this reduction in fertility.

Do not use spermicides, lubricants, or chemical stimuli

Products aimed at enhancing pleasure or preventing conception should be avoided during intercourse if you are trying to achieve pregnancy. If possible, avoid even basic lubricants unless sex is painful without it. If you must use lubricant, opt for canola oil, which does not interfere with sperm mobility and vitality like many marketed sexual lubricants.

Do not douche

Douching can upset the natural balance in the vagina and may interfere with the environment your body needs to help move sperm to your eggs, and to enable the fertilized egg to implant in the uterine wall.

CONSIDER TRADITIONAL METHODS OF ENCOURAGING CONCEPTION

Although many folkloric tips for improving the chances of getting pregnant are not supported by scientific research, it may not hurt to try.
• Try to achieve orgasm after your partner ejaculates into you. The female orgasm helps pull sperm into the cervix, which may facilitate the movement of your partner’s sperm.
• Lay on your back or angle your body with your knees in the air and your head on a pillow to potentially increase the chances of sperm entering your cervix and fallopian tubes.

EAT FOODS THAT MAKE YOU FERTILE

Avoid foods and drinks that may reduce your ability to conceive or harm a newly conceived baby. Some substances are harmful to your chances of conception, while others can harm your newly developing baby.

Women planning to conceive should avoid alcoholic beverages for up to 2 months prior to attempting conception. This is especially true for couples who are having a difficult time conceiving.
• Avoid excessive caffeine intake – this includes both food and drink. Women who drink more than 3 cups of a caffeinated beverage daily are significantly less likely to get pregnant compared to women who consume 2 cups or less.
• Do not smoke or use drugs. Nicotine and illegal street drugs, such as cocaine or marijuana, can impair your body’s ability to get pregnant and develop a healthy baby. Tobacco affects cervical mucous in ways that may obstruct fertilization. Smoking also reduces sperm count and sperm health. Exposure to second-hand smoke can be just as counterproductive.
• Consumption of pesticides may also be linked to pregnancy difficulties, so now may be a good time for couples to choose organic foods.
• Avoid trans fat, often found in processed baked goods and sweetened foods. There is some evidence that a diet high in trans fat (especially relative to monounsaturated fat intake) can increase chances of infertility.
• Avoid questionably prepared raw fish, unpasteurized cheeses, sprouts, prepackaged foods that don’t look fresh, and lunch meats containing nitrates. These foods and other foods that are undercooked or improperly cleaned can lead to food poisoning or illness, reducing your chances of supporting a healthy pregnancy.

Eat foods thought to increase fertility

Traditional medicine and folklore have long held that certain foods promote or decrease fertility and sexual appetite. In recent years, scientific research has confirmed some of the potential biological mechanisms for certain foods’ perceived effects on fertility.
• Eat a diet rich in organic plant-based foods that includes grains, nuts, fruits, and vegetables. The antioxidants, vitamins, and minerals provided by these foods are thought to improve cellular health and even promote a healthy uterine lining.
• The right kinds of protein can help boost fertility; tofu, chicken, eggs, and some seafood are high in omega-3 fatty acids, iron, selenium, and other fertility-enhancing components.
• Consuming full-fat dairy products, such as whole milk or full-fat frozen yogurt, can potentially improve fertility over a diet of only low-fat or fat-free dairy.

Eat as if you were already pregnant

One of the best ways to prepare your body for conceiving and hosting a baby is to eat as if you were already nurturing a developing baby. Not only that, but following a healthy diet before pregnancy can be essential to conception and will make it easier to maintain a healthy diet during pregnancy.

This does not mean increasing your calorie intake, but it does mean avoiding fatty and sugary foods, high-mercury fish, caffeine, and alcohol while upping your intake of fresh fruits and vegetables, dairy or dairy substitutes like coconut and soy-based alternatives, whole grains, and lean protein sources.

Take Prenatal Vitamins

There is some evidence that iron, folic acid, and a good balance of essential vitamins and nutrients can assist in conception. For example, taking folic acid supplements before trying to conceive may reduce the risk of spina bifida and other neural tube defects.

The nutrients in prenatal vitamins are excellent to already have in your diet once you get pregnant. As a bonus, you will already be in the habit of taking a prenatal vitamin once you are pregnant.

Encourage your partner to eat foods that promote sperm health

• Men should take a multi-vitamin that contains vitamin E and vitamin C, eat a diet rich in fruits and vegetables, and avoid excessive alcohol, caffeine, and fat and sugar intake.
• Men should also make sure they get plenty of selenium (55mcg per day), as selenium is suspected to increase fertility particularly in men.

OVERCOME COMMON FERTILITY PROBLEMS

Visit a health professional if you have difficulty conceiving

Healthy couples under the age of 35 engaging in regular (twice weekly) intercourse should be able to conceive within 12 months (plus time for readjusting after discontinuing birth control). If you’re over 35, this time frame reduces to 6 months. If you are tracking your cycle and targeting intercourse, that window should shrink up to 6 months. If you have not conceived in the expected time frame, consult a health professional.

When couples are having difficulty conceiving, many common practices or health issues are to blame. Many physicians first recommend lifestyle changes – from losing weight and improving diet to beginning exercise and having sex more frequently – to address fertility concerns. Only after non-invasive, natural methods for improving fertility fail do many physicians recommend more stringent tests or lifestyle changes to achieve pregnancy.

Get tested for common fertility problems

Everything from illness and stress to excessive exercise and medications can decrease fertility.
• Certain medications can prevent or complicate conception. Provide your health practitioner with a complete list of medications, herbs, supplements, and any specialty drinks or foods you are eating so that he or she can evaluate your list for potential fertility blocks.
• Get checked for sexually transmitted infections. Some infections can decrease your ability to conceive, while others can cause permanent infertility if left untreated.
• Women over the age of 35 and women who are peri-menopausal may experience difficulty in getting pregnant due to the natural decline in fertility that occurs as women age. In most cases, pregnancy can still be achieved but may take longer and require more targeted intercourse and lifestyle changes.
• Have a gynecological examination. In some cases, women may have a removable tissue barrier that is preventing sperm from reaching the egg, or may have a physical condition that affects the menstrual cycle, such as Polycystic Ovary Syndrome. In general, it’s a good idea to have regular gynecological exams once a year to make sure that you’re healthy.

Consider in-depth fertility testing for you and your partner

If both you and your partner have been given a clean bill of general health by a physician, consider sperm testing and medical monitoring of your fertility.

• Men should have a semen analysis to check the quality and number of sperm emitted during ejaculation. Additional male fertility tests include a blood test to check for hormone levels and ultrasounds that monitor the ejaculation process or sperm duct obstruction.
• Fertility tests for women often include hormone tests to check for thyroid, pituitary, and other hormone levels during ovulation and at other times during the menstrual cycle.
Hysterosalpingography, laparoscopy, and pelvic ultrasounds are more involved procedures that can be used to evaluate the uterus, endometrial lining, and fallopian tubes for scarring, blockage, or disease. Ovarian reserve testing and genetic tests for inherited infertility problems can also be performed.

CONSIDER FERTILITY TREATMENTS TO GET PREGNANT

• Thoroughly discuss your next steps with your partner. Because fertility treatments can be expensive, stressful, and time-consuming, it is best to discuss the matter thoroughly and objectively with your partner before committing to the process.
• Speak with a trusted health professional before visiting a fertility clinic. A health professional who has no motivation for promoting a particular therapy or procedure can help you and your partner understand the basic options for assisted reproductive therapies.
• Some procedures carry risks, and others may only be advisable in women without certain health characteristics. A health professional that has your best interest in mind will not promote the use of technologies that are not appropriate for your individual situation.
• Many physicians can also give advice about understanding costs and insurance coverage and provide a realistic, unbiased idea of how long and how successful attempted reproductive assistance may be for you and your partner.
• Ask for recommendations regarding particular fertility specialists or clinics, and get a referral if necessary. Fertility treatments may also be useful for women over 35 and women who have difficulty carrying a pregnancy to term.

Visit a fertility specialist or fertility clinic

• Set an appointment just to talk about your situation and your expectations for getting pregnant. It can also be useful to develop a list of questions you have for your first visit.
• At your first visit, do not expect to have a physical evaluation or to begin treatment. Just show up ready to ask questions and learn about your options.
• Ask about the clinic’s prices, success rates, and the types of fertility assistance they provide. Do not feel obligated to commit to a particular treatment center after a single visit; visit several and keep your options open until you identify the best clinic for you.

Ask about NaPRO technology to get pregnant

NaPRO attempts to correct individuals’ causes of infertility through improved, personalized fertility monitoring and targeted surgical intervention. In small trials, the process produced better results than In Vitro Fertilization, and the procedures involved in NaPRO may be covered by many insurance plans.

Consider using In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) to get pregnant

• IVF is considered the most effective and common method of achieving pregnancy through assisted reproductive technology.
• IVF involves the removal of mature eggs from your body (or that of a donor) and its fertilization with your partner’s (or a donor’s) sperm in a laboratory, with subsequent insertion of the fertilized egg into your uterus to promote implantation. Each cycle can last 2 or more weeks, but most insurance companies pay for few – if any – IVF cycles. The process is invasive and both the egg extraction and the implantation portions of IVF carry risks.
• IVF is less likely to succeed in women with endometriosis, women who have not previously given birth, and women who use frozen embryos. Women over the age of 40 are often counseled to use donor eggs due to success rates of less than 5%.

Ask about Intrauterine Insemination (IUI)

If your fertility troubles are caused by difficulties in sperm reaching the egg or by sperm inadequacies of your male partner, artificial insemination or donor insemination may provide a solution.
• Artificial insemination involves the injection of sperm into the woman’s body to circumvent male ejaculatory problems. If the male partner’s sperm is infertile, a donor’s sperm can be injected into the woman’s body in an attempt to conceive as well. This process is often performed 1 day after ovulation hormones rise in the woman, and can be done in a doctor’s office with no pain or surgical intervention.
• IUI may be used for up to 6 months before trying alternate, more expensive, and more invasive therapies. In some cases, the therapy can be combined with fertility drugs for the woman, and the injection of healthy sperm works the first time.

Ask about other fertility treatments. In some cases, fertility drugs may be sufficient for elevating fertility hormones and allowing natural conception. In others, fertility options such as Gamete Intrafallopian Transfer (GIFT) or surrogacy may be recommended.

Recognize the symptoms of pregnancy.

• If you have missed a period or if you are tracking your menstrual cycle on a daily basis, you can often identify a successful conception very quickly.
• If you have missed a period, take an over the counter pregnancy test or visit a pregnancy center or physician’s office to confirm your pregnancy.
• If you have had an abnormally light period or if you cannot remember when your last period occurred, symptoms of nausea, fatigue, vertigo, mood changes, increased breast tenderness and changes in appetite may occur when you get pregnant.
Each woman is different, so it’s difficult to predict what symptoms you may have.

TIPS

• A man can wear briefs without decreasing sperm count. However, hot baths or whirlpools, tight athletic clothing and extensive bicycling, and extended placement of a laptop in the pelvic region may reduce a man's sperm count.

• Obesity in either partner can decrease the chances of conception. By first achieving a healthy weight, you may conceive more easily and have a healthier pregnancy. ‌

WARNINGS

• Becoming parents is a big decision which should not be taken lightly. Make sure you and your partner are mentally ready to have a baby.
• Trying too hard to get pregnant, especially by strictly following a schedule, can cause stress and reduce physical and emotional intimacy between you and your partner.
‌ • Make sure that you and your partner are disease and infection free before stopping any barrier methods of birth control.



culled from www.wikihow.com ‌

MENSTRUAL CYCLE; relieving your PMS symptoms and menstrual pain

The average woman will have about 500 periods in her lifetime, beginning around the age of 12 until about 51 years of age. Having our period is supposedly what changes us from a girl into a woman. But other than a few black and white overheads we are shown in our school-age years, just how much are we actually taught about this supposedly life-changing experience so unique to the female sex? The truth is, not a whole lot.

How It Works

Menstruation refers to the monthly shedding of the lining of the uterus (the womb), released through the vagina. The menstrual cycle begins the first day a woman bleeds – in other words, the first day of a period. Most periods last between 3 and 5 days, although anywhere between 2 and 7 days is still considered normal.

But what causes the uterus to shed its lining in the first place? Interestingly enough, it all begins in the brain. A gland called the hypothalamus (also responsible for the regulation of our thirst, hunger, sleep and sex drive) sends a chemical messenger to another gland in the brain called the pituitary. The pituitary then secretes a follicle-stimulating hormone and a leutinizing hormone that cause follicles in the ovaries to mature. This is called the follicular stage and it usually occurs between day 6 and 14 of a menstrual cycle.

These follicles then release oestrogen, causing them to ripen in preparation for ovulation. Within about seven days, the oestrogen will have caused the lining of the uterus to become sufficiently thickened for the pituitary to release more of the leutinizing hormone, triggering the follicle that is most developed to release an egg (ovum). This stage is called ovulation, and it usually takes place between day 10 and 14 of the cycle. (The birth control pill works by blocking the final release of the leutinizing hormone, in turn preventing the release of an egg.)

Although the average duration of a menstrual cycle is between 21 and 28 days, a woman can be normal and healthy and only have 3 or 4 cycles a year. Of course, missed or irregular periods should always be referred to a health care professional, since they could also be the sign of a more serious underlying problem.

More About Ovulation

When a baby girl is born she is already equipped with all the eggs she will ever use (and then some – 450 000+). They are then stored in her ovaries until she reaches puberty, at which point the eggs are sufficiently matured to begin ovulation. In other words, she can now become pregnant.

As we have already learned, it is the circulation of hormones present in the blood stream that causes an egg to mature. Once this has occurred, this egg will shoot down the ovaries through the fallopian tubes, and down into the uterus, where the endometrium (the lining of the uterus) has been thickened and is ready to receive it. If the egg is fertilized (meaning if it has united with a sperm), it will then grow into a fetus. If is it not, the lining, along with some blood, will be discarded through the vagina (in other words, a period will occur).

In rare cases, the fertilized egg will implant itself outside the uterus, in the fallopian tubes. This condition, called ectopic pregnancy, can be life-threatening and should be immediately referred to a medical specialist.

Can You Feel Ovulation?

Some women may experience certain signs of ovulation, such as slight abdominal pain or minor bleeding. In general, however, ovulation is not accompanied by any uncomfortable symptoms.

More commonly, women will notice an increase in watery, vaginal discharge, which is secreted by the cervix just before ovulation. This discharge is what helps to carry the sperm towards the egg. Therefore, women wishing to become pregnant may use a mucous monitoring system or a speculum to determine when this is most likely to occur.

However, women who plan their sexual intercourse around their ovulation as a means of natural family planning should be aware that ovulation is not the only time a woman can become pregnant. Because sperm can remain alive inside the uterus for up to 7 days (though it is commonly thought that the majority only survive 3 to 5 days), having unprotected sex a few days prior to ovulation can still result in a pregnancy. Once an egg has been released from the ovaries, though, it only has a 24-hour window during which it can be fertilized.

What Causes Discomfort During Menstruation?

Some 85% of women report some emotional or physical changes around the time their period occurs. Nearly half say they experience cramping during the first few days of their cycle. The release of prostaglandin, a substance that causes the muscles of the uterus to contract, is thought to be responsible for this.

Some other common symptoms of menstruation include bloating, diarrhoea, swollen and tender breasts and headaches. Emotional symptoms such as general moodiness (including depression), irritability or food cravings are also widespread. These are all side effects of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS), which is brought on by rising and falling hormone levels just before the period begins.

What You Can do to Relieve Your Symptoms

There are many things women can do to limit their PMS-related symptoms, such as:

Avoid caffeine. Coffee, teas, colas and chocolate (as tempting as they may sound) should be avoided. They all contain caffeine, which constricts blood vessels, causing tension. Red meat, refined sugars, dairy and high-fat foods are also common PMS enhancers.

Eat lots of vegetables, fruits and whole grains for added iron and fibre. A balanced diet can help with everything from limiting your PMS symptoms to increasing your ability to become pregnant.

Increase exercise. This will help to improve the circulation of blood and oxygen, which may relieve painful cramping.

Reduce stress: Meditate, get a massage, or take a bubble bath; whatever you do, reducing your stress levels will help to relax tense muscles.

Keep your abdomen warm. Use a heating pad or hot water bottle to ease your cramping.

When You Should See Your Doctor

You should consult a physician if you experience any of the following:

• Your period lasts longer or is heavier than usual
• Your period stops suddenly
• You have severe abdominal cramping
• You experience significant bleeding between periods
• You are concerned you might be pregnant (or your period is more than five days late)
• You have stopped taking birth control and have not had a period within six weeks
• You feel sick after using a tampon
• You have any other concerns about your period or the possibility of becoming pregnant



culled from www.womens-health.co.uk

HOW TO HAVE A CLEAN AND HEALTHY VAGINA

As an important part of the woman's body, the vagina requires as much attention to hygiene as do other parts of the body to help maintain overall good health. Unfortunately, since the vagina is an embarrassing subject among many women, it is often neglected of basic care. Here is a simple guide to keeping the vagina at least relatively healthy.

Steps, Tips and Warnings for a Healthy Vagina

STEPS

Keep healthy:-
This may seem like a no brainer -- keep healthy to keep a healthy vagina. For this you need to minimize sugar intake, and maximize yogurt intake. Why yogurt? Simple, really. The bacteria in your vagina is a certain type that is in only a couple of foods that you can find in the grocery store. It just so happens, though, that yogurt contains good bacteria called acidophilus. Sugar, meanwhile, promotes the type of bacteria that the yogurt bacterias, if you will, try to kill off. So, as said before, minimize sugar, and maximize yogurt, sugar-free preferably.

Keep yourself clean:-
A large cause of infections happen simply because sweat or oils built up until there was nothing for it to do except fester and form an infection. Never fun. So bathe and shower regularly, and try and keep "down there" as clean as possible, without using a douche. Douches clean too much-- they take away some of the bad bacteria, but then they also take away massive amounts of the good bacteria. Unfortunately, the bad bacteria builds itself up, and you're worse off than before. Douching can also lead to increased inflammation (vaginitis). A simple washcloth, with a small amount of mild unscented soap and water works fine, but do not wash inside. The vagina is constantly flushing itself. So allow it to work the way it was designed.

Use condoms!:-
Condoms, while helping to protect you against pregnancy, also help keep your vagina clean. Having unprotected sex often can lead to vagina problems as well as the obvious pregnancy and STDs.

Use dental dams and gloves If you receive oral sex or are being fingered.

Wear cotton underwear:-
Cotton is very breathable, if you will, and allows the vagina to get air circulating around it. This helps to keep things from building up "down there", and also helps maintain good skin around the vagina area.

Take out your old tampons:-
Leaving a tampon in your vagina too long, more than six hours, is a very bad idea. It can cause a toxic syndrome (TSS), as well as some very disgusting build up. Use smaller size and change sooner. Changing out pads often is also a good idea-- leaving a pad on too long can cause serious irritation to the skin on and around the vagina like diaper rash! So keep the diaper rash at bay, and change your pad throughout the day.

Avoid sprays and scented soaps:-
Actually, try and avoid soaps "down there" as much as possible. They can get caught in the crevices of the vagina and fester. And you have an infection of the vagina in no time at all. Sprays and scented soaps, though, are more damaging, as they are designed to leave a bit behind-- the scent, and you don't want anything left on the skin of your vagina at all. Soaps and bubble baths can also worsen vaginal dryness.

Visit your gynecologist regularly:-
Only your doctor can accurately diagnose any problems you may be having. If you do suspect anything at all, call and make an appointment as soon as you can.

Rinse Well:-
While showering or taking a bath, rinse your vagina with lots of water, especially if you use soap. Rinsing will help remove any "build-up, discharge, etc" It will also give you that fresh scent, but if you have extra discharge or build-up, like the above step says see your gynecologist.

TIPS

Keep a mature mind when following the above steps. Keeping a healthy vagina is part of a regular hygiene regimen.‌

If you suffer from vaginal dryness, you can use over-the-counter moisturizers and lubricants to make intercourse more comfortable.

If you think you have a yeast infection, consult your doctor first before initiating self-treatment. According to the Mayo Clinic, there are several conditions, some of them serious, with similar symptoms. Over-the-counter treatments usually work against yeast but won't treat similar vaginal problems that are commonly mistaken for yeast infections like vaginitis, chlamydia and and trichomoniasis.

Getting an STD test both you and your partner(s) is a great way to know for sure if you have anything. Don't be chicken, your health depends on it.

WARNINGS

If you do contract an STD, deal with it as soon as possible. STDs that are not dealt with can cause serious problems down the road.

If you experience irregular vaginal bleeding -- small amounts of blood between periods, bleeding for weeks at a time or soaking a maxi-pad an hour over the course of several hours -- see your doctor. You could be suffering from a number of diseases or conditions.

If you have problems with persistent vaginal odor (especially a "fishy" smell), consult your doctor. It could be vaginitis.


culled from www.wikihow.com