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Is breastfeeding truly effective at preventing pregnancy?

Having a child is a thrilling and life-changing experience. However, caring for newborns takes a lot of time and effort, especially if you're juggling family and work. Even the happiest and most proud parents may prefer to wait a while after the birth of one child before welcoming another.
 
It's possible you've heard that if you're breastfeeding, you won't be able to conceive. But that isn't the whole tale. Several factors influence how effective nursing is as a birth control method.
 
Pexel photo
What to think about if you want to use breastfeeding as a birth control method
 
Experts advise waiting at least 18 months between pregnancies. This gives the uterus time to recover and is safer for both the mother and the baby.
 
There are numerous birth control methods available. Some alter the hormone cycles that control menstruation and pregnancy. Nonhormonal alternatives frequently inhibit or decrease sperm production, or prevent sperm and egg from contacting each other.
 
Breastfeeding is a natural method of birth prevention that many individuals find appealing. It has been shown in research to be a successful strategy during the months when a mother is frequently breastfeeding and an infant is eating exclusively breast milk—no formula, baby meals, or other foods.
 
This procedure is referred to medically as the lactational amenorrhea method, or LAM. Lactation is when a woman breastfeeds, and amenorrhea is when she doesn't have a period or a regular menstrual cycle.

How does this technique operate?

Breastfeeding a kid on a regular basis can prevent ovulation, the process by which an egg is released from the ovary. Ovulation is required for conception.

To avoid pregnancy successfully, all of the following rules must be followed:

  • Your infant is less than six months old and exclusively breastfed (no formula or food).
  • You breastfeed at least four times a day and six times a night.
  • You are currently without periods (amenorrhea).

What is the efficacy of LAM (lactational amenorrhea method)?

A hormone-based method like the birth control pill can be just as effective when used properly, as LAM has been shown to be when used properly. It is 98 per cent effective for the first six months after birth. This means that if the guidelines are followed correctly, only two out of every hundred people will become pregnant while using this method. Otherwise, pregnancy is far more likely. Your medical team can assist you in determining whether this is the best method of birth control for you right now and can explain further options.

What are the benefits of this method?

This method of contraception is completely natural and poses no health risks or adverse effects. In addition, it is free and doesn't need an appointment or procedure with a doctor.

What are the drawbacks to this technique?

  • It is not feasible or practical for everyone.
  • You must be capable of and willing to breastfeed your newborn exclusively. Giving your baby formula or other food reduces the effectiveness of this type of birth control. As a side note, it isn't clear if pumping breast milk has the same effect on ovulation as breastfeeding.
  • It is only temporary. Pediatricians recommend that babies begin eating solid foods at the age of six months. Additionally, babies will begin sleeping for extended periods of time at night. 
  • If you experience your period while using this approach, you are most likely ovulating again. People who don't use birth control may get pregnant if they don't change their methods of birth control.
If you choose to use LAM, be prepared to change birth control methods by the time your kid is six months old, or sooner if you find it impractical.

Is this technique right for you?

This strategy may be appropriate in the short term if you are willing and able to 

  • breastfeed your infant entirely for the first six months following birth—no formula or other foods should be added.
  • At a minimum of every four hours throughout the day and every six hours at night, nurse.
This approach is not effective in preventing sexually transmitted diseases (STIs), such as chlamydia or HIV. It is not a smart choice for anyone who intends to use breast milk and formula in combination, or who has a health concern or takes medications that could harm a baby if spread or transferred through breast milk.

Choosing the best method of contraception for you

Birth control should be tailored to your lifestyle and health needs. Certain individuals, for example, desire to avoid procedures that contain any hormones. Individuals with a history of blood clots or hypertension should avoid estrogen-containing procedures. Busy people may benefit from a long-term method of birth control that is set it and forget it,' such as an IUD or implant. In addition, anyone who wants to protect themselves from STIs should think about using condoms with any method of birth control they choose.
 
Inform your midwife, doctor, or other members of your medical team of your preferences and needs. They can clarify your alternatives and assist you in making the best choice for you.
 
For additional information on available alternatives, contact the Harvard Health Birth Control Center.

Embryo donation, which is when a family donates their "spare" embryos to a couple or an individual, is a realistic option for becoming a parent. 
 
So, who's on the receiving end of this? This option appeals to people who are considering adoption as well as individuals or couples who require donated eggs, sperm, or both in order to conceive. Check out the following questions and problems if you fall into one of these groups.
 
 
A few topics to consider when deciding between embryo donation and adoption pregnancy. Some prospective adoptive parents pursue embryo donation because they want to experience pregnancy. This could be crucial for you. It could be a life event you've always wanted to have or one you've always wanted to share with a spouse or partner. Perhaps you're worried about having your kid carried by someone else. For example, prospective adoptive parents are frequently concerned that a birth mother's drug and alcohol use, as well as exposure to inescapable circumstances, may have an impact on their future child before birth.
 
timetable and budget. The epidemic exacerbated already steep drops in the number of newborns available for adoption. If you want to adopt a newborn, you'll probably have to wait two years or more. Embryos, on the other hand, are easy to get, and most embryo transfers happen within six months of deciding to get donated embryos.
 
Embryo donation is significantly less expensive than adoption. There will be a price, as well as costs involved with moving embryos from one facility to another and (depending on your medical insurance) costs associated with drugs and the embryo transfer if you go through an agency. While prices are significant and vary across the United States, fees for baby adoption are significantly greater than those for embryo donation.
 
When comparing embryo donation to adoption, the shorter wait time and lower fees are appealing, but it's crucial to remember that embryo donation may not always result in a live birth, whereas adoption—through a reputable agency—will bring a baby into your house.

Old woman

Did you know that over two-thirds of the 6.2 million people in America who have Alzheimer's disease are women? This means that women are nearly twice as likely to have Alzheimer's disease as men. Alzheimer's disease is more common among women, but why is this so?

Alzheimer's disease is a progressive brain ailment that gradually impairs memory and thinking abilities, eventually impairing the capacity to do even the most basic tasks. In the majority of patients with the condition—those with late-onset symptoms—symptoms begin in their mid-60s.



Women live longer than men.


The primary reason is that women live longer than men. When actuarial life tables are consulted, it becomes clear that a baby girl born in 2019 is anticipated to live five years longer than a baby boy: 81 versus 76 years.

Age is the most important risk factor for Alzheimer's disease; the older you get, the more likely you are to get the condition. For instance, the incidence (the number of people diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease each year) varies according to age:

Each year, four out of every 1,000 people aged 65 to 74 get Alzheimer's disease.
Each year, 32 people aged 75 to 84 develop Alzheimer's disease.
Alzheimer's disease affects 76 out of 1,000 adults aged 85 and older each year.

Thus, one reason there are more women with Alzheimer's disease than men is that our society has 5.7 million older women than older men, and the older you are, the more susceptible you are to having Alzheimer's disease.

However, this is not the complete explanation.

Alzheimer's disease is more prevalent in women.


Women have a somewhat higher risk of having Alzheimer's disease later in life than men. One study monitored 16,926 people in Sweden and discovered that women were more likely to be diagnosed with Alzheimer's disease than men of the same age, beginning at age 80. Similarly, a Taiwanese study discovered that women had a larger likelihood of developing Alzheimer's disease over a seven-year period than men. Furthermore, a meta-analysis of the Alzheimer's disease incidence in Europe discovered that roughly 13 women out of 1,000 developed Alzheimer's disease per year, compared to only seven men.

Thus, women living longer than men cannot be the whole explanation for why women are more likely than men to develop Alzheimer's disease, as women are more likely to be diagnosed with the disease even among individuals of the same age.
 


Women do not have a higher incidence of non-Alzheimer’s dementia than men.


One hint to the solution to this issue is that women do not have a higher risk of having dementia from causes other than Alzheimer's disease. For instance, a study of dementia rates in Sweden discovered that women and men were equally likely to develop non-dementia Alzheimer's as they aged. The fact that Alzheimer's disease rates vary by gender but not for non-dementias shows that there must be a unique connection between Alzheimer's disease and gender.


Amyloid deposition in Alzheimer's disease may represent a defense mechanism against infections.


Another piece of the puzzle comes from Harvard researchers, who believe that amyloid, one of the pathological components of Alzheimer's disease, is deposited in the brain to combat infections. If this hypothesis is right, we may consider Alzheimer's disease to be a result of our brain's immune system.


Tips for Self-Examinations of the Breast


How frequently do you examine your breasts, and do you know how to perform a self-breast exam properly? There is no better time than the present to learn how to perform a self-breast exam, so here are some recommendations to help you be more thorough during your self-checkups.



The significance of breast examinations


Breast cancer statistics and the need for screening are compelling: mammography has contributed to a nearly 40% reduction in breast cancer fatalities since 1990. Regular mammography and self-examinations can help you save your life by detecting irregularities early on.

Breast examinations also offer a secondary purpose: they help you become acquainted with your breasts. This may seem ludicrous; after all, they are your breasts, and you are inherently familiar with them. However, many women are unaware of lumps until they are detected during a mammogram. Simply stroking your breasts is insufficient; you must master the proper technique and recognize the signs.



How to do an effective self-examination


You're likely to have come across a guide or graphic demonstrating how to conduct a self-breast inspection. While these graphics are excellent for spreading awareness on social media, they may not always convey accurate and comprehensive information.

Choose a day after your period ends to conduct a self-examination. This helps prevent your breasts from becoming sensitive, puffy, or sore. If you are not menstruating, simply choose one day per month. Begin your assessment with a visual inspection. In front of a mirror, standing topless and slowly raise your arms, elevate each breast, and inspect for any irregularities. These include the following:

Changes in size, shape, or symmetry

Dimpling

Changes in the nipples

The presence of redness, ridges, or roughness

After that, it's time for the physical examination.
After that, it's time for the physical examination. Gently massage your breasts in spirals with the pads of your fingers, beginning at the nipple and working outward. Then, with your fingers, trace the circumference of the breast up toward the collarbone. Finally, massage the sides, paying special attention to the area around the armpit.
It's happened to a lot of menstruating women: you're going about your business until you realize you've just gotten your period. You feel scared, vulnerable, and exposed as you race to find a restroom and wish fervently that you packed a menstruation product. This is exacerbated by the fact that our society stigmatizes menstruation — or, for that matter, anything having to do with a uterus — and these discussions are shrouded in secrecy.



Period supplies


If you're one of the almost 22 million women living in poverty in the United States who can't afford menstrual hygiene supplies, you're living in period poverty. According to a study published in Obstetrics & Gynecology, 64% of women have ever had trouble purchasing period items like pads, tampons, or reusable goods like menstrual cups. In addition, 21% said they couldn't afford these things on a monthly basis. People who are homeless or incarcerated are more vulnerable to not having enough menstrual hygiene supplies.



Why are period (menstruation) products a luxury?


Menstruation is an unavoidable part of life. Menstrual hygiene items should be considered as essentials rather than luxuries. Unfortunately, menstrual products are not covered by food stamps or the WIC (women, infants, and children) program subsidies for groceries.

Patients have told me that they can't afford menstruation products, so they use toilet paper or paper towels instead of pads or tampons. People who have heavy periods and need to change their pads or tampons frequently experience financial difficulties since they need to buy more pads or tampons than the average menstrual person. They may have vulvar irritation and vaginal discomfort if they try to extend the life of items by using them for many hours at a time. They may also be more susceptible to toxic shock syndrome, a potentially fatal infection.

Why is it vital to talk about period (menstruation) stigma?

To understand and address the issues people confront when it comes to access to menstrual hygiene products, we need to eliminate the stigma around menstruation. Poverty is a reality. Period equity should also be genuine. Embarrassment or taboos may hinder people from speaking up for themselves, but if that stigma is lifted — or even alleviated — we can move forward as a society to fulfil the needs of half of our population. When half of the population suffers financial and physical hardship as a result of the reproductive cycle required to guarantee human survival, there is no equity.


A womaqn having mentrual cramps at work
Photo by Tima Miroshnichenko from Pexels

Menstrual cycle changes are nothing new to us. We typically experience premenstrual syndrome or PMS symptoms, such as mood swings, tender breasts and bloating, fatigue, and menstrual cramps every month. The latter, in particular, can be such a schedule disrupter. Whenever your period happens, don’t you sometimes feel like you need a day off from work to get some relief from your abdominal and pelvic aches and pains?

Yet, there are a few things you can do to prevent your menstruation from cramping your productivity. Read on and find out how you can effectively manage menstrual cramps at work.





Dealing with period cramps at work


Drink water—lots of it!

Being adequately hydrated can minimize dysmenorrhea (another term for menstrual cramps). One study shows that increased water intake can diminish the intensity of abdominal pain experienced during menstruation. Aside from reducing the severity of cramps, drinking water has also been shown to shorten the length of the bleeding period and improve the utilization of painkillers.
 
Working in an office makes it easy to be overwhelmed with so many things that you forget to sufficiently hydrate yourself. To help you meet your daily H20 requirements, even if you’re away from home, keep a one-liter water bottle handy. This way, you can easily reach for it to take quick sips of water from time to time without having to stop whatever task you’re presently engaged in. Just make sure, though, that your water bottle has a tight lid to prevent any accidental spills (especially on your computer!).

Have Healthful Lunches


You can actually eat your way to health, as well as menstrual cramp relief! Let’s first discuss the connection between eating healthy to reducing cramps.

When you have a lot of estrogen in your body, your uterine lining becomes abnormally thick. The denser the uterine lining, the more inflammatory prostaglandin hormones are produced to make your uterine muscles contract. This contraction helps you shed your uterine lining and causes menstrual cramps. Therefore, eating anti-inflammatory foods, such as fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, can diminish menstrual pain.
 
Having a diet rich in fiber can also reduce the amount of estrogen in your body. This is because the fiber helps your system cleanse itself of the excess estrogen. Refined foods, though, do not contain the dietary fiber you need to eliminate estrogen and prevent it from being reabsorbed by the body. This means that avoiding them can be a good idea, especially when you’re on your monthly cycle.

But the thing is, eating healthy at work can be quite a challenge. It can be tempting to just go for whatever fast food is available to get your lunch over and done with ASAP. Preparing your meals at home and bringing them to the office can help you commit to nutritious and well-balanced lunches that help combat menstrual pain.


Care for Vulvar


Infections and discomfort can be avoided by maintaining a healthy vulva and vagina. Changes in vaginal discharge that are unusual are a clue that there is a problem.

What are the benefits of vulvar and vaginal care?

Many women suffer from vaginal infections (vaginitis) at some point in their lives. The area around the vaginal (vulva) opening can also get irritated. There are steps that can be taken to reduce vulvar discomfort and avoid vaginal infections.

Some types of vaginal infections might be made worse by home remedies. If you have any concerns about your vulvar or vaginal health, or if you detect unexpected changes in vaginal discharge, speak with your healthcare professional.




What is a vulva, and what does it do?


The vulva is the area outside of the vagina where female sex organs are located. The labia are delicate tissue folds found in these organs (labia means "lips"). There are two components to the labia. The labia majora are the outermost folds. Within the labia majora lies a second set of folds known as the labia minora. The vulva also houses the pubic bone's mounded portion (mons pubis), a tiny, round organ (clitoris), and the vaginal and urine canal entrances (urethra).

What is the vagina?


The female genitalia includes the vagina. It begins at the introitus, or inner section of the labia, and ends at the cervix, which is the opening of the uterus.

What causes vaginal infections?


When bacteria, fungi, or other organisms grow out of control, they cause vaginal infections. Several of these organisms are already present in the vagina and are kept in check through coexistence with other organisms. Infectious organisms can potentially enter the vaginal canal through poor hygiene or unsafe sex.

What is vulvar care?


Keeping the vulva dry and free of irritants is the purpose of vulvar care. This will keep the vulva from getting red, puffy, and inflamed. Because many illnesses are transmitted through the vaginal canal, these guidelines also serve as a foundation for excellent vaginal hygiene.

What are some vulvar care tips?


When you wash the vulva, use warm water to get it clean. Always dry with a clean towel. If the vulva is extremely irritated let it dry naturally.

Douching is harmful to your vaginal health. You don't need to douch your vagina because the discharge from your vaginal cleans your vagina naturally. Cleaning your vaginal area excessively might cause irritation and infection. They disrupt organisms' natural balance which is found in the vagina.

Do not wear anything but white underwear that is made entirely of cotton!

If you have sensitive skin or are prone to vulvar discomfort, avoid wearing nylon, acetate, or other artificial fibers.

Thongs should be avoided.

After washing, rinse underclothes well or double-rinse. When it comes to laundry detergent, don't use it too much.

Before wearing new underwear, make sure they're clean.

When washing underwear, use a mild soap.

Avoid Fabric softeners.

Use toilet paper that is soft (white only).

To control menstrual bleeding, use tampons instead of sanitary napkins. (Deodorant tampons are not recommended.)

To avoid toxic shock syndrome, do not leave tampons in for an extended amount of time. Tampons should not be left in all night.

Avoid using enzyme-based detergents (amylase, cellulose, protease, and lipase)

If your healthcare physician recommends it, take sitz baths on a daily basis.

It is important to avoid dryer sheets, fabric softeners, and enzyme-based detergents (amylase, lipase, protease, and cellulose).

Please don't scratch.

Avoid wearing nylon pantyhose or panty girdles because they trap moisture and heat which allows organisms to reproduce.

Do not wear leggings or pantyhose for a long period of time.

Bubble baths, feminine spray, scented oils, bath oils, deodorants, talc, or powder are all things that can irritate the vulva.


Food that help vagina lubrication

7 superfoods that you should consume for a healthy vagina

Foods That Increases Lubrication

Every organ in your body – even the vagina – is affected by your diet. Without a balanced diet, the body will respond to sickness and other undesirable reactions. This may manifest as a yeast infection in the vaginal area. There are a few foods that can help maintain the pH in your vagina balanced.




Maintain a healthy vagina. These are not just for vaginal health; they benefit the entire body. However, if you are experiencing vaginal problems, this is a warning that you should seek medical attention.

The best foods contain probiotics — or beneficial bacteria. The beneficial bacteria in your vagina protect it from acquiring numerous infections. The following are seven superfoods that you should consume for a healthy vagina:

1. Greek Yogurt - Plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt includes the beneficial bacteria that your vagina requires to remain healthy. These bacteria (probiotics) are critical for mood regulation, maintaining a healthy weight, and maintaining a regulated pH level in the vagina.

Plain, unsweetened Greek yogurt
Photo by Adonyi Gábor from Pexels



2. Fish — Omega-3 fatty acids found in fish such as salmon support healthy circulation throughout the body. Additionally, a healthy blood flow benefits your sexual drive. Additionally, a recent study indicates that women who consume an omega-3-rich diet are significantly less likely to develop endometriosis than those who do not.

3. Cranberries – Are well-known for their gynecological beneficial properties, owing to their high concentration of A-type proanthocyanidins, or PAC. Due to the high sugar content of cranberry juice, many women opt for cranberry juice pills. One pill is equivalent to two 8-ounce glasses of cranberry juice. Cranberry juice benefits the vagina by regulating the pH levels.

Cranberry juice, pie, cookies, sause
Cervical cancer

Maintaining routine screening tests, even if you are in excellent health and feel well, is critical for overall health and wellness. That is because many diseases, including cervical cancer, exhibit no signs until the disease has progressed.


The start of the year is an ideal time to arrange your yearly well-woman examination, which includes Pap testing. Women diagnosed with cervical cancer had a terrible prognosis only a few decades ago. Cervical cancer is detected earlier and women are less likely to die from the disease today, in part because of routine Pap testing.

Cervical cancer awareness month is observed every January. Melody Jacob Health encourages women to understand that getting screened can help minimize their risk of cervical cancer. Cervical cancer discovered by Pap testing has a 92 percent cure rate, according to studies. We've compiled this guide to emphasize the critical role of Pap screenings in avoiding cervical cancer.

Early detection results in a more favorable outcome.


Pap tests are an effective screening technique for cervical cancer that can detect it in its earliest stages.

A Pap smear is a test that is performed during a routine pelvic exam to search for abnormal cell changes in the cervix that may be an early indicator of cervical cancer.

Pap screening can detect abnormal changes in the cervix before they progress to malignancy, effectively preventing the development of cervical cancer. When aberrant cervical cells are identified prior to their transformation into cancer, cervical cancer can be prevented considerably more easily.

Conduct early and routine tests.


It is suggested that you begin Pap testing at the age of 21 and repeat it every three years until the age of 29. After the age of 30, you may choose to continue having a Pap test every three years or to have your Pap test combined with screening for human papillomavirus (HPV) once every five years until you reach the age of 65.

It is suggested that women who are at a greater risk of cervical cancer have more frequent cervical cancer screenings. A previous Pap smear that revealed precancerous cells or a history of cervical cancer are the two primary reasons why some women require more regular Pap testing.

Women 65 years of age and older may stop Pap screening if their Pap tests stay normal.

Birth Control Options & Types: Risks & Effectiveness

Recognize Your Birth  Control Options 

What is birth control?

Birth control is a method of preventing conception for both men and women. There are several birth control options available. By being more informed about the many alternatives, you can determine which one is best for you and your spouse.

If you are sexually active and do not wish to have children, do not delay using birth control. Any time you have unprotected intercourse, an unwanted pregnancy is possible.

Recognize Your Contraceptive Options

Contraception and family planning are not novel ideas. While humans have attempted to avoid conception for generations, the widespread availability of effective chemical birth control is a comparatively new development. In 1960, When the FDA approved the first birth control pill in the United States, it opened up new possibilities for women all over the country, allowing them to plan their careers, relationships, and children in wholly new and innovative ways. Numerous additional contraceptive methods have been developed since then.

Contraceptive methods

There are numerous types of contraception available to women, each with its own set of benefits and drawbacks. Within each category, various brands may add to the variety. While having too many options is rarely a bad thing, deciding which is best for you can be overwhelming.

Contraceptive pills

This is the most often-used method of birth control, though its use has waned in recent years. Birth control tablets are 91% effective and must be used daily to prevent pregnancy.

There are two types of tablets in this category: combination pills that include both progestin and estrogen and micro pills that contain only progestin. You and your doctor can discuss both alternatives to determine which is best for you.

Birth control pills are painless and readily available, but they must be used responsibly and on a daily basis. Just one missing dose can result in an unintended pregnancy. In addition, the pill is less effective than injections or intrauterine devices, though you should be protected if you take it on a consistent schedule every day.

Intrauterine implants


Intrauterine devices, or IUDs, are very small implants that are placed in the uterus. They are one of the most effective methods of contraception available, and they are available in two forms: copper and hormonal. Again, you and your doctor can review both alternatives to choose which is best for you.

Your IUD can last for years with little care required. Women can become pregnant immediately after the IUD is removed. This makes it the preferred method of birth control for women seeking a hands-off, convenient method that will not interfere with future family planning.

Below is a guide to perimenopausal bleeding to help you decide when it's time to see a doctor about your symptoms.


Normal can be a little difficult to define when it comes to menstruation. What is considered normal for one woman may not be for someone else. For instance, while the average interval between menstrual cycles is 28 days, a healthy cycle can last between 21 and 35 days.

perimenopausal

As you get closer to menopause — which is defined as one year since your last menstruation cycle — you may notice that your normal schedule changes. Women's cycles frequently change in length during the years preceding menopause, which doctors refer to as perimenopause. Bleeding may become more intense or less intense. You may even skip a period on occasion. When these changes are combined with existing individual variation, it can be difficult to determine what constitutes a problem — and what does not.

Dr. Karen Carlson, an internal medicine specialist and associate professor at Harvard Medical School, provided some guidelines for women to use when determining which changes are normal variations and which should be brought to the attention of a physician. Here are her responses.

Q. Could it be common for women to have menstrual changes during perimenopause?

A. Menstrual changes are normal during perimenopause, which typically begins four years before the last menstrual period.

Q. When it comes to the years leading up to menopause, what kinds of changes are typical?

A. As a woman enters her late reproductive years in her forties, her cycles frequently become shorter. The intervals between periods begin to lengthen as perimenopause progresses. Menstrual changes can also be more dramatic, including missed periods and occasional episodes of heavier bleeding. After several years of irregular menstruation, menstrual periods cease entirely. It's critical to remember that no one-size-fits-all pattern exists, and women should never hesitate to report a concern to their physician.

Q. What kinds of bleeding should be brought to the attention of a medical professional?

A. Generally, more severe or prolonged bleeding (greater than seven days) is a cause for concern rather than the absence of bleeding. Between periods, continued irregular bleeding or spotting is not normal and should be reported. Keep in mind that even if you miss a period, pregnancy is still a possibility, even as fertility declines as menopause approaches.



Q. When should you consult with your doctor, and how long should you wait? Is a single abnormal cycle sufficient, or should you wait for several cycles?

A. I will say It depends on the magnitude of the change. Sudden onset of extremely heavy premenopausal bleeding should prompt a call to report the event. It is reasonable for a woman who is experiencing longer cycles or who skips a period to keep a menstrual diary for a few cycles and then consult with her doctor.
Healthy Pregnancy

Whether you're pregnant or planning to get pregnant, it's critical to educate yourself on the precautions you should take to protect both you and your baby's health. There are numerous factors to consider, ranging from maintaining a healthy diet to developing a birth plan. To assist you, here are five suggestions for a healthy pregnancy.


1. Establish a birth plan


A birth plan is essentially a blueprint for how you want your labor and delivery to go. It covers topics such as who you want with you during labor and delivery, whether or not you want an epidural, what to do if issues arise, and other critical factors. You should share this plan with your doctors and any other friends or family members you wish to be present with.

2. Pregnant Women Should Take Prenatal Vitamins


Pregnant Women Should Take Prenatal Vitamins



When you're attempting to conceive and when you're pregnant, it's a good idea to take prenatal vitamins. They contain folic acid, calcium, and iron, among other vitamins and minerals. Their main purpose is to fill in any nutritional deficiencies in your diet and to aid in the healthy development of your baby. You can buy them through your doctor or over the counter at most drug stores. The supplements will assist you in having a healthy pregnancy and child!
By 2050, 13.8 million people in the United States will likely have Alzheimer's disease, with women accounting for two-thirds of those affected. Economic costs are enormous since they are expected to exceed $2 trillion. Women are at the core of this because the economic threat is particularly grave for women, who are an increasingly significant component of our global economy and account for the great majority of unpaid caretakers. Thus, keeping intact memory beginning in early middle age and continuing through menopause is crucial not only for women, but also for their families, society, and economic health.



Preventing memory loss begins in early middle age.

Cognitive decline is not restricted to neurodegenerative disorders such as Alzheimer's disease (AD) but also occurs naturally as we age, affecting our quality of life. The majority of research on aging and cognitive decline, particularly on Alzheimer's disease, begins in adults in their 70s. However, knowing the events that occur early in life and their effect on age-related brain alterations is crucial for designing prevention strategies for one of the most serious public health problems of our generation.

How does menopause affect women's brains?

Along with chronological aging, women experience reproductive aging in early middle age: menopause, during which ovarian hormones such as estradiol, the predominant form of estrogen that functions in the brain, are depleted over time. Our study team and others have established a direct link between estradiol and alterations in-memory performance and rearrangement of the circuitry in our brain that regulates memory function. Thus, women and men age differently, particularly during early midlife, when reproductive aging is more essential than chronological aging for women. However, cognitive aging is rarely regarded as a problem specific to women's health. This is critical because recognizing that brain aging begins in early middle age and comprehending the influence of menopause on the brain enables the creation of methods to protect women from losing their memory.


Giving birth to a child is one of the most memorable experiences a person can have. And the method of birth — vaginal or surgical cesarean section — can have an effect on your health and subsequent birth experience, if you have one. A frequently used calculator assists physicians in estimating the likelihood of a successful vaginal birth following a cesarean section. However, this tool may have contributed to existing health disparities, particularly between Blacks and whites, until recently. Is a newer version of this calculator capable of reversing this trend? And what can you do to improve your chances of having a vaginal birth after cesarean (VBAC), if that is important to you?

Why are cesarean births sometimes required?

Cesarean birth is a beneficial and necessary procedure in certain situations, including the following:

when labor fails to progress

when a parent expresses concern for the infant (such as growth restriction or heart rate issues during labor)

complications with the placenta

a very large baby

a breech presentation

when an infection or illness, such as HIV or genital herpes, may be transmitted to the infant during a vaginal birth.


What is Vaginal Yeast Infection?

Candida albicans, often known as "Candida vaginal infections," is the fungus that causes vaginal yeast infections. 75 per cent of all women will have at least one vaginal Candida infection in their lives, and up to 45 per cent will have two or more. When a woman's body is under stress from a bad diet, lack of sleep, sickness, or being pregnant or taking antibiotics, she is more prone to develop vagina yeast infections. Women with immune-suppressing illnesses like diabetes and HIV infection are also more vulnerable.

Symptoms

A vaginal yeast infection can cause the following symptoms:

Itching or soreness in the vaginal area

Discharge that is thick, white, and cheese-like.

Burning" sensation around the vaginal entrance, especially if urine comes into contact with the region.

During sexual intercourse, there is pain or discomfort.

There are lots of products out there that we use daily which are harmful to our health in the long run. It looks beautiful and nice but how does it impact your health? If you are still using coloured tissue paper you need to stop and read this.


The weird thing is that we use toilet paper on a regular basis for one of our bodies' most sensitive areas. We don't give a second thought to how it's manufactured or why it's so white. Nowadays, toilet paper comes in a variety of colours, so why aren't all of them blue, yellow, or any other colour besides white?

Coloured tissue paper first appeared in the '50s according to the Toilet Paper World publication. One of the first things that became apparent back then was that doctors began warning people about the skin-damaging effects of colour additives. They were also concerned about the possible detrimental environmental impact. 

Gonorrhoea is a sexually transmitted infection (STI) that is caused by the bacterium Neisseria gonorrhoeae or gonococcus gonorrhoea. It was previously referred to as "the clap."

How gonorrhoea is transmitted?

The germs that cause gonorrhoea are most frequently detected in penile discharge and vaginal fluid.

Gonorrhoea is easily transmitted between humans via the following routes:

Vaginal, oral, or anal intercourse that is not protected

Exchanging vibrators or other sex devices that have not been thoroughly cleaned or wrapped with a fresh condom after each usage

The bacteria can infect the womb's entrance (cervix), the tube that excretes urine from the body (urethra), the rectum, and, less frequently, the throat or eyes.

Additionally, the illness can be transmitted from a pregnant mother to her unborn child. If you're pregnant and suspect you may have gonorrhoea, it's critical to get tested and treated before giving birth.


Syphilis is a sexually transmitted disease (STD) caused by Treponema pallidum bacterium. Syphilis begins with an open sore (ulcer) that releases fluid containing syphilis germs. Contact with this ulcer or other infectious sores that develop later in the disease, generally during vaginal, oral, or anal intercourse, can spread syphilis. Syphilis, if left untreated, progresses through a succession of stages that affect various areas of the body, but some stages overlap:

Syphilis creates a painless ulcer called a chancre in the vaginal region, where the syphilis germs enter the body. This stage lasts between ten to ninety days (on average three weeks) after a person is exposed to someone who has syphilis. Without therapy, the sore resolves in around four to eight weeks.

Secondary syphilis – The syphilis germs spread throughout the body at this stage. This frequently results in a rash covering the majority of the body, as well as fever, aches and pains, and other symptoms. This stage lasts six to eight weeks after a person is introduced to syphilis.

Latent syphilis – This stage begins after the secondary stage has ended. Despite the absence of symptoms, the individual remains sick. This period can span several years, if not the entirety of an individual's life. Approximately one-third of latent syphilis patients develop tertiary syphilis.

Tertiary syphilis — At this stage, syphilis germs may severely harm numerous internal organs, including the brain and spinal cord. It often manifests within ten years of infection and can be fatal.

Pregnant mothers who have syphilis can transmit the bacteria to their infants, resulting in congenital syphilis. Syphilis congenital causes a range of skin and organ issues in babies and is often fatal. Pregnant women with syphilis also have a roughly 40% chance of having a stillborn baby.

What is chlamydia?

How can I determine if I have to take an STD test? Discover More

Chlamydia is an infection that is transmitted sexually and infects both men and women. It can harm a woman's reproductive system permanently and dangerously. Her inability to get pregnant in the future will be because of this. Chlamydia may induce a dangerous ectopic pregnancy, which is deadly in many cases (pregnancy that occurs outside the womb).

How is chlamydia transmitted?

Chlamydia can be transmitted by intercourse of the oral, anal, or vaginal kind with someone who already has it.

Even if your sex partner does not ejaculate, you might still catch chlamydia.

You can develop chlamydia again even if you've had it before and been treated. Chlamydia is a sexually transmitted disease transmitted after the occurrence of unprotected intercourse with someone who is also infected. Chlamydia can be transmitted to a baby during delivery if the mother is infected.


What is Urinary Tract Infection in Women?


A urinary tract infection is an infection that affects the organs responsible for producing and excreting urine. The kidneys, ureters (long, narrow tubes linking the kidneys to the bladder), bladder, and urethra are among these structures. When looking at urinary tract infections, medical professionals generally categorize them into two different types: lower tract infections and upper tract infections.



Infections of the lower tract — Cystitis is an infection of the bladder (bladder infection). Bacteria found in the intestine are the most common cause of lower urinary tract infections. Bacteria spread from the anus to the urethra and then to the bladder, they grow and cause infection.

Upper urinary tract infections affect the ureters and kidneys. These kidney infections are referred to as pyelonephritis. Upper urinary tract infections are often caused by germs travelling up the urinary system from the bladder into the kidney. They can happen when bacteria travel via the bloodstream from other parts of the body and settle in the kidney.

Women are significantly more likely than males to be affected because their urethras are shorter, allowing germs to enter the bladder more easily. Bacteria can move upward into the bladder during sexual intercourse. Additionally, the use of contraceptive diaphragms and spermicides may alter the natural bacterial environment around the urethra, increasing the risk of infection.

Pregnant women are at an increased risk of cystitis and pyelonephritis because of temporary changes in the physiology and anatomy of the urinary system. Kidney and bladder infections can be extremely dangerous for pregnant women and their unborn children since they raise the chance of preterm labour or delivery, as well as the death of the fetus or newborn infant.


No content on this site, regardless of date, should be used to replace direct medical advice from your doctor or another trained practitioner.
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