Monday, July 23, 2012

What are the Different Types of Urinary Tract Infections?


UTI or Urinary Tract Infections, as the name suggests are infections of the urinary system. Our urinary system is composed of three essential elements: bladder, ureters, and urethra. Bladder is the organ that collects and stores urine; ureters are the tubes that connect kidneys to the bladder; and urethra is the tube that passes urine out of the body. Though urinary tract infections are quite common, they should not be overlooked.

Some of the common symptoms of UTIs include burning pain during urination, blood or pus in urine, difficulty in controlling while urination, and the feeling of urination every time, to name only but a few. However, it should be noted that these symptoms might not be associated with UTIs. Only a doctor can diagnose these symptoms.

UTI can be caused by several reasons; for example, if bacteria come in contact with the vulva can cause UTI. The main source of bacteria is feces that might enter when toilet water back splashes. Besides, anal intercourse is one of the reasons of UTI. STDs can also cause UTI. If a woman is not sure how she got infected with UTI, there is nothing to worry. Visit a doctor and get the right diagnosis and treatment for the same. Treatment for UTI is available; doctors recommend antibiotics and over-the-counter pain relievers.

Women can prevent UTI infections by practicing some good habits; for example, drink lots of water when thirsty, do not hold urination, urinate immediately before and after intercourse, and keep vulva clean and dry. 

Sunday, July 22, 2012

Birth Control through Abstinence


The word abstinence is used in many different ways when it comes to birth control. Some people consider abstinence as total absence of vaginal coition; however, they may enjoy other forms of sexual activities. This situation is effectively described as outercourse. Some people follow periodic abstinence when a woman is more likely to get pregnant. So, abstinence is one of the most effective birth control methods in which sperm is kept out of the vagina.

As far as effectiveness is concerned, it is 100 percent effective; and the other benefit is that it prevents individuals from STD infections. So, it is the safest ways to prevent unwanted pregnancy, as there is no side effect. People choose abstinence for many purposes such as to prevent pregnancy; wait to find the right partner, get over a breakup, and to prevent STDs, besides others. However, staying abstinent is not as easy as it seems. It requires a lot of patience, and will power.


A hairy communist bolts.

Breastfeeding and Birth Control


Breastfeeding starts just after a woman gives birth to a baby. Baby feeds on her mother’s breast milk. This brings many hormonal changes in a woman’s body and thus helps prevent unwanted pregnancy. During breastfeeding, some hormones are not released inside the body, which are necessary for ovulation (release of a mature egg from the Graffian follicle to the fallopian tube where the egg meets a sperm and fertilization takes place). 

Now the question is how effective is breastfeeding in preventing birth control? It has been found that less than 1 out of 100 women get pregnant who practice continuous breastfeeding. However, this method is effective for about 6 months from the date of delivery. In addition, it is also important to note that breastfeeding does not protect individuals from sexually transmitted diseases.

Many women after delivery start breastfeeding to their babies. If a woman finds it difficult to breastfeed then she can take the help of a doctor, or a nurse. The main advantage of using breastfeeding as a birth control method is that it is safe; and it has no side effect. 

What is an IUD?


The IUD stands for Intrauterine Device. It is a small T-shaped device, which is made of flexible plastic material. A doctor inserts IUD into a woman’s uterus to prevent unwanted pregnancy. The IUD device prevents sperm to meet with an egg. If there is no fertilization, there will not be any conception.

IUDs are very effective in preventing unwanted pregnancy. However, it is important to note that IUDs cannot prevent a person from STD (Sexually Transmitted Disease) infections. So, if a person is having multiple partners then other methods need to be used to prevent STDs.

Soon after an IUD is placed inside the uterus, she can indulge in any sexual activity. Once a woman gets her IUD, she needs to consult with a doctor after her first period. This checkup is important to ensure that the IUD is placed properly. IUDs can be replaced or removed anytime; the procedure is very simple. Visit a hospital and the health care provider will remove or change IUD. However, women should never try removing IUDs of their own.

What is Spermicide?


Spermicide is one of the birth control methods for women. Spermicide, as the name suggests, contains chemicals that prevent sperm from moving. It is available in different forms including gel, film, creams, and suppositories.

Effectiveness of Spermicide

Effectiveness is one of the most common concerns while choosing a birth control method. However, like other methods, if used correctly, spermicide is very effective. However, if women use this method regularly then there is a chance of 15 out of 100 women to get pregnant each year.

How to Use Spermicide Correctly?

Since there are different forms of spermicides available, each form is used differently. Before using the spermicide, it is always advised to read the instructions carefully. If not used as directed, it will not be effective. Inserting spermicide is quite easy – simply lie down and insert the spermicide deep into the vagina using fingers. In some forms such as creams, and gels, one needs to wait for about 10 minutes after inserting spermicide to have intercourse.

How Safe is Spermicide?

In general, it is quite safe, but many women are allergic to spermicide and can get skin irritations. If any skin irritation is felt inside the vagina or the penis, change the brand or consult a doctor. 

What is Vasectomy?


Vasectomy is one of the birth control methods in men; however, this method is considered as permanent. The doctor closes or blocks the tubes that carry sperms. After vasectomy, sperms are not ejaculated with the semen.

How does Vasectomy work?

Sperms are formed in the testes. During coition, sperms are carried through two tubes called vasa differentia and mixed with seminal fluids to form semen. In case of vasectomy, each vasa deferens is blocked to prevent sperm out of the seminal fluid.

Effectiveness of vasectomy

Well, vasectomy is considered as 100 percent effective. However, it is advised to use condoms for about 2 months after vasectomy. After that there is no need of using any condom. As far as safety is concerned, vasectomy is a minor surgical procedure; however, it is important to consult a health care professional for the same. After vasectomy, most men return to their work. However, in few cases, it takes 1-2 days to recover from the same. Men after vasectomy can begin their sexual activity within a week. 

Birth Control Options


Birth control options are not one-size-fits all kind of thing. One specific method that is perfect for one woman might not be suitable for others. It is therefore, important to pick the right birth control method. However, you are the only one who can decide what is best for you. But, it is sometimes not so easy to figure out the right option. Well, you can use my tips to figure out the right method.

All you need to do is sit and think for a few minutes about your present lifestyle plus your likes and dislikes. You do not need to worry at all because there are no correct or incorrect answers. These questions have been designed for women, if you are a man, you will have to answer these questions from the perspective of your partner. Once you answer all the questions, you will be able to pick the right birth control method. Answer the following questions in Yes or No.

Q1. Do you want protection from sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV?
Q2. Are you allergic to latex?
Q3. Do you have any allergic problem with spermicides?
Q5. Would your partner be comfortable using a condom?
Q6. Would your partner pull out just before ejaculation?
Q7. Would you be able to take pills every day?
Q8. Are you afraid of needles?
Q9. Are you planning to get pregnant the very next year?
Q10. Are you 35 or above and smoke cigarettes?

Depending upon your answer, you can choose whether you need condoms, birth control ring, or birth control pills. 

Saturday, July 21, 2012

Health Insurance Coverage


With sky high medical expenses, it is not possible for every individual to seek out an affordable medical care. Having health insurance can help individuals in seeking quality and affordable medical care. Health insurance coverage ensures that individuals get proper treatment without feeling the burden of intricate medical bills. Choosing the right health insurance plan is very crucial; and expert guidance can also be taken for the same. Look for different health care plans, compare them and then choose the right one.

Health Maintenance Organization (HMO)

The HMO is a sort of managed care organization, which is entrusted with the mission of providing excellent health care services to all the members through a network of well-known hospitals and experienced health care professionals. The HMOs are often considered as the better substitutes for the conventional health insurance plans; and less of the costs involved in HMOs. The objective of these programs is to deliver the best of the health care services for the members at a lower cost via the well-organized network of health care providers. The health care plans sponsored by the employers are usually through an HMO. The HMOs plans are open for individuals, family members or, employers. HMO members are required to pay a premium to get access to the prepaid medical care.

Preferred Provider Organization (PPO)

The PPO is similar to the health maintenance organization (HMO) in various aspects. They provide medical treatment services through a chain of famous hospitals and highly-qualified doctors. PPO members are required to make a premium payment to get access to the services similar to HMOs. The difference between HMOs and PPOs is that in the latter case, the members undertaking the plan are allowed to adopt health care plans which do not fall in the purview of the PPO network. All the members are required to pay an annual deductible at the start of the PPO. Under PPO, the members of the network need not a referral from the primary physician to avail treatment of a specialized doctor; however, HMO members require a referral. The main advantage of PPO is the greater options associated with it.

Point of Service Health Insurance Plan (POS)

It is a blend of the attributes present in Health Maintenance Organization (HMO) and Preferred Provider Organization (PPO). It is analogous to HMO as the members are required to assign a doctor who falls into the network to act as the primary health care provider of health services. The similar aspect between PPO and POS is that the members are provided with full freedom to opt for the services of the other outside provider of health services. The members are required to pay the entire costs in the event of no referral being made by the primary care provider to the outside provider of services.

Free for Service (Indemnity) Health Insurance Plan

Free for service delves into the details on the payment method used to remunerate physicians who are present in the network of health insurance plans. Physicians who are remunerated under this plan counter less of the financial risks. Physicians are allowed to augment the number of services per visit. Physicians are then paid by the health plan for every procedure and test they conduct. Physicians getting remuneration under this plan never avoid the procedures and the tests which are very expensive. 

Friday, July 20, 2012

Kegel Exercises to strengthen Your Pelvic Floor Muscle


Performing kegel exercises is easy, as you do not need any equipment for the same. You can perform this exercise anywhere. However, before you start doing this exercise, you must know what benefits you will get? So, let’s have a look at some of the benefits of kegel exercises:

Improves sex life: This is absolutely true because kegel exercises provide strength to your pelvic floor muscle.

Normal delivery: If you perform kegel exercise, you will go through a normal and smooth delivery.

Performance in men: Kegel exercises can be done by both men and women. Kegel exercises help men get over from erectile dysfunction.

How to perform Kegel Exercises?

The best thing about kegel exercises is that you can do that anytime, and anywhere. Follow the steps:

Organs such as urethra, uterus, and vagina are called pelvic organs, which are attached by pelvic muscles. You have to concentrate on these muscles.

In order to recognize these muscles, you will have to pass urine and stop in between – when you stop; you can feel those muscles contracting. Practice this for a day to recognize pelvic muscles.

Once you have recognized the pelvic muscles, you can contract them anytime and anywhere.

You can contract those muscles for a count of 10

Release muscles and relax

You can do 3 to 4 sets every day.


Thursday, July 19, 2012

Are you also searching for some untold weight loss secrets?


Many individuals cheerfully glance at an advertisement which says "Eat as you desire and still shed weight.” Being a little more in weight is the worst nightmare for any woman. Losing weight is not a miracle that you will once do something and suddenly you turn out to be that perfect figure woman. It's not necessary that those myriad tips served on the platter will work for you in the same manner as it worked for your friends. There is no need to feel jealous. Have patience and put in your best honest effort. You will surely achieve your target weight. None of the diet works equally for every person. Let's unveil some weight loss secrets which can provide a much more utilitarian approach to your objective.






Know Good and Bad Fats

Most of us believe that cutting on the fat content will help in shedding the extra pounds. But the secret here is only fat can beat fat. Most of us are in the habit of taking the wrong fat, which is present in meat, cookies and cakes. All these foods are so delicious that one can't restrain. But to reduce the belly fat, it is significant to curb the wrong fat and start with good fat. The good fat is found in nuts, olive oil, fish etc. Hence, nibbling a handful of peanuts can work wonders for your waistline.


Know Your Diet

Most women these days are of the notion that they are free to eat anything as they are undertaking a rigorous exercise regime. Well, this is purely a myth. The more you exercise, the more you feel hungrier; resultant you nibble more. When you eat more, again you have to exercise all the more to maintain your waistline. It is a wake up call to all women to keep a check on what they intake. Exercise alone is indeed of no use.

Not All Drinks Contain High Calorie

Everybody believes that after a busy day, nothing comforts more than a good meal and a nice drink. Alcohol does contain some calories. While some of the drinks are loaded with calories. Here, comes good news for women. According to researches conducted all over the world, moderate consumption of alcohol does not result in any sort of weight gain in women. The women certainly can enjoy their drink now without any worry.

Enjoy Tasteful Weight Loss Formula

The weight loss secrets can prove benediction for chocolate lovers. For achieving a trimmed belly, it is necessary to grab more of cocoa and less of sugar. Cocoa is rich in antioxidants which can prove to be an ally for weight loss. Cocoa when consumed in moderate amount can assist the endeavour of weight loss. Add unsweetened cocoa to shakes and coffees to have a tasteful weight loss.

These are just some of the many secrets which are yet to be unveiled. Losing weight is a cumbersome job. It can lead to serious mood swings in women. What is needed here is an honest and determined effort to stick to the goal, the diet and the exercise regime.
 










Tuesday, July 17, 2012

Foods to Increase Sperm Count in Men


Getting pregnant is of course, the most amazing experience for couples. However, getting pregnant is not always easy, as many factors influence the same. One of the common hindrances is the low sperm count. Well, after reading this post, you don’t need to worry about anymore. I am talking about some foods that can increase your sperm count as well as the quality.


Banana: This is a really amazing food that offers many health benefits. If you see a banana, you can compare its shape to the organ vital for copulation. Well, banana contains an enzyme, Bromelain, which is responsible for regulating sex hormones. Besides, banana also contains Vitamin B1, Vitamin A, and Vitamin C essential for increasing body’s stamina.



Garlic: We consume more garlic, especially in the winter season. We say that garlic keeps our body warm from inside. Well, the logic is that garlic increases the blood flow and that’s why we feel warm in winter. Garlic also increases the blood flow in genitals also and thus provides strength and endurance. In addition, garlic also contains Vitamin B6 and Selenium to prevent sperm damage and regulate hormones.




Pomegranate: This is one of the most beneficial foods for all. Pomegranate with its dark red seed color signifies its importance in making blood inside the body. It is also one of the best antioxidants known. Drink a glass of pomegranate juice and you will soon realize its importance. It will increase your vigor, and sperm count. 

Women Scored Higher in IQ Tests than Men


Women's IQ


Cheers to all women worldwide – they have now proved that they are more intelligent and smart than men. However, it took more than 100 years to surpass men. World-renowned IQ expert, James Flynn published the results of the IQ tests he performed recently. According to him, women have increased their IQ faster than men in the last 100 odd years. In addition, women are multitasking in nature – they play the roles of wives, moms and homemakers. And it would not be surprising to say that women today are also taking up as CEOs and running for president. 

How to protect hair in summer?


We all use myriad products for protecting our skin from getting tanned in the heat. But none of us even give a thought regarding hair care. We all carry a popular myth in our minds; that more hair fall takes place in the winter season. Well, this is purely a myth. Summer air causes more damage to hair locks as compared to any other seasonal air.



The ultraviolet rays can damage the scalp and can even lead to hair becoming gray, brittle and dry. Here are certain tips which can provide a shield to your locks from the attack of the sun's harmful rays. The first tip is to block the rays from reaching your hair. This can be done by wearing scarves and caps. The products such as cinnamates can provide the necessary SPF to your beautiful hair and protect your locks. Activities such as swimming must be avoided as the chlorine present in the water often results in split ends. A common observation is that the dry hair are more prone to damage than wet hair. It is advisable that in case you have to enter a pool, go with wet hair. Hair enhancement tools such as hair dryers and curling machines results in irreparable damage. These tools damage the cuticles of hair. Summers does not give you a license to wash your hair each and every day. The shampoo should be used thrice a week along with a good conditioner. Drink a lot of water to keep your hair as well as body healthy.


Sunday, July 15, 2012

Banana for All Age Groups


Everybody knows the popular saying, “An apple a day, keeps the doctor away,” but banana is equally beneficial in one way or the other. A few years ago I saw the tennis player, Boris Baker eating banana after completing each set. Since I was just a school going kid, I did not know why he was eating banana every time he finishes his set. Now, I know the answer – banana provides instant energy because it contains carbohydrates, vitamins, fibers and micronutrients.




Last year I enrolled in a gym, and the trainer’s first reaction was – hey you are underweight and you need to put on weight. I sincerely asked him how to put on weight – he said, eat at least six bananas a day. It will not only help you put on weight, it will also provide enough energy to workout. The very next day, I bought six bananas and ate them all. I did not skip a day without eating bananas and soon I saw the difference in my body. I had put on weight and my muscles were quite visible as well. Well, this does not mean that banana will add flab in your body – if you eat two bananas a day, especially in your breakfast, you will feel fresh and energetic all through the day.

In addition, banana offers many health benefits. Banana is very good for people suffering from ulcer, constipation, anemia, and depression, to name but only a few. So, make a resolution to eat at least 2 bananas a day and feel the difference. 

Monday, July 9, 2012

Foods That Act as an Aphrodisiac


There are several foods that not only provide nutrition to your body and skin, but also act as an aphrodisiac. I have mentioned some of the foods that are really good when it comes to performing well between the sheets. So, feast on these wonder foods, and enjoy.

pomegranate aphrodisiac

Pomegranate: We all know that this fruit is full of antioxidants and therefore, good for health. In addition, pomegranate helps in making RBCs (Red Blood Cells). Scientists have now confirmed that this fruit is also an excellent aphrodisiac. All you need to do is a single fruit a day or take pomegranate juice in your breakfast.

Fish oil
   
     Fishes: I love fishes, and if you also like eating different varieties of fishes then it’s really good for your health. Fish contains Omega-3 fatty acids, which help in triggering sex hormones and therefore, fishes are one of the best aphrodisiacs known.


banana aphrodisiac

        Bananas: They are very rich in Iron and potassium; the latter is essential for muscle strength. So, eat 2-3 bananas everyday and feel energetic all through the day and of course at night.

Red chilli
  
    Chili: if you wonder why I mentioned chili as an aphrodisiac then the simple reason is that chilies contain a chemical, called capsaicin that helps in increasing blood circulation.

Milk aphrodisiac

  
    Milk: In many Asian countries, newlywed couples drink a glass of milk that contains dry fruits such as cashew nut and almonds. They use this drink as an aphrodisiac.

Apple: A Wonder Fruit


Apples are one of the delicious fruits I have ever known. The juicy and fibrous apples not only taste good, they are highly nutritious. In fact, we are all aware of this fact, but here I am writing something more about apples that you might not know before.

Apple


First of all, take a look at the nutritive values of a standard size apple:

·         Calories: 80-81
·         Dietary Fiber: 4grams
·         Carbohydrates: 21 grams
·         Calcium: 10 mg
·         Iron: 25 mg
·         Vitamin C: 8 mg
·         Vitamin A: 73 IU

Now, you know that if you eat a standard size apple, you will get all the above nutrients. And, the best thing is that I have not known a single person who dislikes eating an apple. It is really delicious and good for stomach, skin and the whole body.

So, make a habit of eating at least a single apple a day. I am sure, you will feel great changes in your metabolism and the energy flowing within you.