Latest Women Articles

Plus Size Womens Dresses

Fri, 25 Jun 2010 03:10:28 -0400

Because not all plus size women dresses are made alike, there will be certain folds and creases where the designer's proportions do not meet your own. With the dress still on, walk out of the dressing room and test your appearance in different proportions and colors of light.

Plus size women often have difficulty getting stylish clothes and find that what is available in their size is more suited to older women. Many retailers do not realize that even young women are sometimes larger than what society deems to be the perfect size and do not stock a lot of different clothing styles in plus sizes. However, this trend does seem to be changing as some department stores have a separate section devoted to clothes for plus size women.

Today, a variety of brands now offer a line of plus size women's clothing in specialized sizes for bigger women who are looking for fashionable clothing options for a social event or major occasion. This is a good change that signals a cultural shift in a society where size zero seems to be what many women aspire to be. Thanks to plus size special occasion dresses, plus size women need not be frustrated about not finding a dress they like that fits them well. They can simply go to a brand's plus size line and have a look at the many fashion options they offer for bigger sizes.

Velvet is making a distinct comeback on the runway with Bohemian chic. These jewel toned velvet dresses not only look stylish but also flatter the full-figured woman. Some shops specialize in plus size clothing for the chic curvy girl. Although finding plus size sexy clothing was a challenge in the past, it is now possible to locate some fabulous online collections of plus size fashion sure to enchant the sexy plus size customer!

Any BBW in the business world will have little trouble finding handsome suits, business style dresses, and skirts and blouses in plus sizes. You can get blazers in a variety of materials from lightweight cotton to blended wool. Colors can range from the sedate to eye catching hues of reds, blues, and oranges. Whatever your business personality you can dress for success.

If it is a party that you are attending and need the plus size dress for then you definitely want to pay special attention to the cut. The reality is if you've got it there is no point in hiding it. If you get your plus size women's special occasion dresses from a specialist plus size designer then they usually seem to have a better understanding of what makes the fuller figure really look good. You know that you are not just wearing a scaled up dress that was originally made for a slim model.

Try to evaluate the prices of similar looking clothes on other websites or shops as well. The internet is a great information resource to whittle down the price of your local clothier. Flash your iphone web-browser with those discount plus size party dresses you found in tip #1 above and watch their knees buckle! This is a tactic that is especially useful if you are planning to wear a particular plus size party dress for a single occasion or only a few times. Best then to have all the bargaining leverage you can when you shop for those just right plus size party dresses. You do NOT have to pay full price for anything in this day and age - so don't!

Urinary Tract Infection Home Remedies

Tue, 11 May 2010 00:21:14 -0400

Urinary Tract Infections Are Common

UTIs are the most common type of bacterial infection. They are made worse by yeast infection. One third of all women will suffer from UTI by the age of 24, and 20 percent of these women will have recurrent infections. These infections result in 7 million office visits, 1 million emergency room visits, and 100,000 hospitalizations every year.

Typical treatment entails aggressive use of broad-spectrum antibiotics that are notorious for side effects. Short term side effects include fatigue, nausea, digestive problems, and chronic secondary infections. In the long term, the use of these antibiotics leads to resistant forms of bacteria that become impervious to antibiotics.

Standard UTI Remedy From Herbs

The most widely known UTI cure from herbs is cranberry (Vaccinium macrocarpon). The active ingredients of cranberry, called proanthocyanidins, help prevent UTIs. These ingredients have been shown to stop E. coli from sticking to the urinary tract. Cranberry is especially helpful in preventing repeat infections for women who get multiple UTIs every year.

Research shows that cranberry extract in capsule form is more economical than drinking sufficient amounts of 100 per cent juice for treating infections. Taking capsules of cranberry extract also eliminates the intake of unnecessary calories from sugar that accompany treatment with juice.

New Herbal UTI Remedy

Rosella (Hibiscus sabdariffa) is a newly available herb in the U.S., a tea from which has been used for health benefits in Europe and other parts of the world. One of those benefits is enhancing kidney function. Another is preventing UTI-causing bacteria from sticking to the bladder wall and the linings of the urinary tract. Rosella is also rich in ingredients that are similar to those of cranberry. This herb has a broader and stronger antimicrobial effect than cranberry, which also includes the inhibition of yeast.

Research on rosella alone has shown that a 200 mg daily dose with a standardized extract led to a 77 percent decrease in UTIs as well as an overall improvement in urinary comfort.

Herb Combinations The Best Urinary Tract Infection Remedies

Ideally, the synergy between these two herbs should be of more benefit than either one is by itself. Indeed, the newly available rosella extract has now been combined with cranberry extract for just that purpose. Based on research, the key for best results from any such combination should contain at least 200 mg of rosella concentrate from leaves and calyx (i.e., flower leaves) and 500 mg of cranberry fruit extract.

Aside from getting comparable results to prescription drugs, one of the most important benefits of this double whammy herb combination is the lack of side effects. The nontoxic properties of the active ingredients of these herbs have been well-known to plant biochemists for more than a century.

Is Frozen Embryo Transfer Right for Me?

Sat, 01 May 2010 01:50:51 -0400

At least one in six couples are affected by some form of infertility and seek the help of fertility specialists. The actual numbers of people that struggle with infertility are difficult to estimate however, as many may not seek treatment or suffer recurrent pregnancy loss, which is a form of infertility, though they would not be counted in the official number of those technically categorized as infertile.

Choices in Fertility Treatment
The journey through fertility issues can be very difficult, filled with many difficult choices. Once the kind of infertility has been diagnosed, various treatments will be considered, usually starting with the least invasive first. If the couple has failed to conceive with other treatments, they may progress to IVF treatments. During the IVF process, any embryos created and not used in the cycle may be frozen, and preserved for a future frozen embryo transfer.

Why Some Couples Choose to Cryopreserve Embryos

• To be used in future frozen embryo transfer
• To be donated

Embryo Cryopreservation Procedure
The cryopreservation procedure allows embryos to be preserved one to six days after fertilization for up to 10 years. The process involves several steps, which include:

• Embryos are places in separate thin glass vials
• A special solution is added, preventing the formation of ice between the cells of the
embryo
• The vials are stored in a controlled freezer containing liquid nitrogen.

Embryo Thawing Procedure
In order for a frozen embryo transfer to take place, the embryo, or embryos, must be thawed.

• The embryo is removed from the freezer and thaws to room temperature
• Any solutions used in the preservation is removed
• The embryo is warmed to body temperature and placed in a culture medium

The Frozen Embryo Transfer Procedure
Like the IVF procedure, ovulation and endometrial development is carefully monitored to determine the most optimum moment to transfer the frozen embryo into the uterus. Patients experience very little, if any, discomfort during the procedure.

• A thin catheter is placed in the uterus through the cervix
• The once frozen embryo is transferred to the uterus through the catheter
• The patient lies still, resting for several minutes, up to an hour, as the embryo
settles into the uterine lining

What are the Success Rates Involving Frozen Embryo Transfer?
As in all fertility treatments, there are a number of factors impacting the success rate of Frozen Embryo Transfer procedures. On average, the success rate is 20% per cycle. 30% of embryos will not survive the cryopreservation process.

Factoring the Cost When Making a Decision
Many couples must plan their fertility treatment choices around financial considerations. When deciding if frozen embryo transfer is right for you, consider the total financial impact of your options. While the FET procedure can be quite costly, it may still be more financially feasible than continued IVF treatments.

Choosing a fertility treatment is a very personal process with many things to be considered. Over all, many people have had more success with the FET than fresh embryo transfer and report the process being less stressful and much more comfortable.

Pick a Plus Size Wedding Dress That You Love

Fri, 23 Apr 2010 06:16:45 -0400

You know, leafing through bridal magazines can really take the fun out of your upcoming wedding.

No matter which publication you choose, you are bombarded with page after page of ultra-skinny waifs wearing beautiful wedding dresses. And you know these models subsist on just two celery sticks and three cigarettes each day so they can fit into the size zero gowns you see them wearing.

And when you research some of the gowns you like – whoops! Not available in your size. Big surprise!

You’re sick and tired of designers making formal wear for wiry, impossibly thin women. Why can’t they design dresses for actual-sized people? If you were looking for Barbie clothes, you’d go to the toy store.

Now you can rejoice.

There are plenty of dresses and gowns that both fit your frame and help you stop traffic once you’re in them! You can finally pick a plus-size wedding dress that you love instead of settling for whatever bargain-bin styles are available at a store.

Here are some popular choices to consider.

Strapless A-Line Silhouette

Voluptuous brides to be might consider this gown featuring a soft, flowing skirt that blends perfectly with a beautifully fitted and detailed bodice. Look for dresses that feature beaded lace detail down the back and hand-beaded lace and ruching detail which accents the empire waist for a look that’s both flattering and comfortable.

Strapless Tea-Length Dress

Another great choice is a contemporary ensemble that gives you several options to personalize the dress the way you want it. Look for a satin ribbon at the waist that sits above a feminine A-line skirt. Complete this look with a matching cap sleeve shrug constructed of delicate lace.

Satin A-Line Silhouette

This lovely A-line silhouette dress is fashioned in sumptuous satin. A long, elegant look is created by the off-the-shoulder neckline and the side draped bodice. The exquisite lace-up back complements the chapel train.

Satin Ball Gown

This breathtaking gown is ideal for the lady who is worthy of the royal treatment. The satin ball gown is generously adorned with beaded lace features and back button detailing. And the magnificent cathedral train is lavishly decorated with cutout lace appliqués.

Soft Chiffon A-Line Wedding Gown
You’ll feel regal and carefree in this stunning wedding dress. The surplice bodice has beaded tank straps and the empire waist has beaded detail. A sweep train completes this beautiful outfit.

Empire Waist Dress with Spaghetti Straps

This dress is full of sophisticated grace with a nod to old world-style weddings. It has a ruched empire waist along with petite spaghetti straps. The rest of the gown is designed in burnout floral chiffon, and it comes with a beautiful sweep train.

V-Neck Ball Gown Silhouette

This faille gown is perfectly suited for the modern, fashion-conscious bride. The classic lines and slimming waist detail are readily apparent in this beautiful design. The dress also comes with a sweep train and hidden skirt pockets.

A-Line Silhouette with Sweetheart Neckline

This dress is easily recognized by the bold and beautiful blossoms cascading on the left shoulder. The one-shoulder design becomes three spaghetti straps in the back of this delicate chiffon gown with a sweep train. The soft A-line silhouette and subtle sweetheart neckline flow into a gorgeous, figure-flattering drape.

Organza A-Line Tea-Length Dress

All the style and charm of a wedding gown – in a tea-length dress! This A-line dress is made of organza and flares beautifully from the waist. The skirt is superbly festooned with ribbon detail and is held together by a bow back.

Strapless Bodice Dress with Beaded Waist

Glamorous, dramatic, and trendy – all in one package! The most distinguishing feature is the fashion-forward, sophisticated tulle tiers on the skirt. The look is expertly balanced by a fitted strapless bodice, beaded waist detail, sweetheart neckline, and sweep train.

A-Line Gown with Metallic Embellishment

The hand-beaded metallic embellishment on this dress’s waist and neckline give it a vintage feel. The beautiful beads may range in color from silver to antique, and an oxidation process helps enhance their beauty and produce subtle hue variations. The rest of the A-line gown features a chiffon split front with a pleated surplice bodice and a sweep train.

Trumpet Gown with Button Back

This chic yet flattering wedding dress is highlighted by a dramatic, sexy neckline. The elegantly shaped bodice is exquisitely designed with beading and button back detail. The high-collar side draped trumpet gown comes with a chapel train.

Gone are the times when curvy, vibrant women were forced to struggle and compromise in their search for their perfect wedding dress. Today, there are a myriad of choices in plus-size nuptial gowns to fit every style, body, and sensibility.

Baby Products Going Green

Wed, 21 Apr 2010 20:06:15 -0400

With spring comes green, and in 2010 marketing executives are clear that green packaging and promotions grow product sales more quickly than in previous years. Nowhere is this trend more noticeable than with baby products, as increasing numbers of new parents choose natural products for their baby's life and health.
"Many parents, especially those who have chosen to breast feed for health reasons, are concerned about ways to tell the difference between the product and the package," says Dr. Robert Rodriguez, founder of Buddy Boutique, a supplier of healthy, organic, and easy-to-use breastfeeding and baby products.
Dr. Rodriguez, who has studied the behaviors of first-time parents since 1970, publishes and lectures extensively, providing expectant and new parents with ways to have happy, enduring families. He suggests the following guidelines to help Earth-conscious consumers make the best household choices for their infant.

Organic Diapers

The first decision most parents-to-be have to make, after breastfeeding, is about ecologically responsible choices for diapering. "Many parents choose organic cotton for its absorption and breathability. When it's in two-in-one style, a type of diaper with a moisture resistant exterior, such as natural latex, it reduces the need for disposables," says Dr. Rodriguez.
Most, however, will choose to have both natural fibers and environmentally friendly, biodegradable disposables on hand - and to use a green diaper laundry service if they feel overwhelmed.

Fabrics and Fibers

A baby's skin is sensitive, so Dr. Rodriguez recommends certified organic and untreated cotton or wool fabrics and fibers. Grown and processed without the use of toxins, cotton may be dyed naturally using plants or clays in an earth-friendly process. The need to provide natural, safe fabrics and fibers for babies spurred Rodriguez's development of Buddy Boutique, a top choice for organic, untreated clothing, blankets, and nursing cover-ups.
In cooler months, wool provides a warm, water and fire resistant breathable layer. Like sheep, wool naturally comes in a variety of attractive shades, textures, and colors. Certified organic wool is a favorable choice for clothing and bedding for babies. Mattresses for the bassinette and crib can also be constructed from all-natural latex, cotton and wool.

Paint

When a baby's on the way, one of the tasks the proud father-to-be often places on the priority list is a new coat of paint in a "perfect" shade for the nursery or master bedroom. Eco-friendly choices for interior paints should be labeled as no- or low-VOC choices. A VOC, or volatile organic compound, evaporates toxins into the air, and is particularly undesirable for newborn systems and expectant and nursing mothers. In fact, painting projects should be finished "well in advance of the anticipated arrival, and both mom and baby should not reside in any painted room until it's been fully dried and ventilated," says Dr. Rodriguez.

Flooring

Traditional and historic homes often have hardwood floors new parents may wish to soften with rugs as baby learns to crawl. Though not sold as organic baby products, washable area rugs made of natural fibers are an environmentally friendly choice for the, while the ability to clean rugs regularly cuts down on a wide variety of household allergens. Larger rugs may be taken to a "green" cleaner for seasonal care. In homes in which respiratory problems are an issue, additional attention should be placed on the use of low- or no-VOC padding, with preference placed on products without glues.
For parents concerned with baby's messes, natural linoleum, bamboo, or cork flooring, in a variety of colors and shades, comprise highly desirable replacements for vinyl.

Furnishings

The best furniture baby is sustainably harvested solid wood, such as maple, cherry, or mahogany, which can be finished with a non-toxic natural raw linseed oil, or with no- or low- VOC finishes. Top picks for nursing babies and mothers include cribs, layette tables, and rockers.

For more information, visit:
http://buddyboutique.com

Breast Augmentation Facts and Fiction

Sun, 18 Apr 2010 13:21:17 -0400

Many women seek breast augmentation to improve their appearance or self confidence. Sometimes they do it simply to become larger. Other times they seek to fill in the volume which has become lost following pregnancy. Among plastic surgery procedures, breast augmentation is currently one of the most popular - and with a very high rate of patient satisfaction.

A breast implant is a fluid filled sac that is inserted under the breast tissue and is designed to enhance the size of the breast and to change its shape. For appropriate and well-informed candidates, breast enlargement can provide very pleasing results.

There are two different types of breast implants. The first is saline-filled and the second is silicone gel-filled. Some women are of the belief that silicone implants cause illnesses in women, like autoimmune diseases. This is a serious issues, but fortunately this has been shown to not be the case. There can be risks to the procedure, like with any surgery. Local side effects like breast pain, capsular contracture and rupture or deflation of the breast implant are possible. It is also important to remember that breast implants don't last a lifetime and one should be prepared for long-term follow up if adjustments become necessary.

After reading about breast implants, you should give yourself time to make an informed decision about whether or not having breast implants are right for you. You should decide whether or not you want to have breast implants based on what you think your outcome should be. It is important to have realistic expectations. There is no guarantee that what your breast implants will look like those of other women. Think about how healthy you are now, what your chest structure is, your capabilities of healing such as whether you've had surgery, whether you smoke, if you have bleeding tendencies and the skill of the surgical team doing the procedure.

The devices each vary according the surface of the shell (textured versus smooth), the shape of the implant (round versus shaped), profile (how far the implant sticks out), and the volume (size) of the implant. Most implants consist of a shell, a filler and a patch that covers the manufacturer's hole. The bulk of them are single lumen, although some have a lumen inside another lumen (double lumen). Some breast implants have a fixed volume of filler while others are filled during the operation and others allow for adjustments to the volume of the filler.

There are three types of saline implants. The first is a single lumen implant that is generally filled up during the procedure with saline through a port. After the operation, the size of the implant remains the same. The second type of saline implant is a single lumen implant that is filled during the procedure through a port. The size of the implant can be changed after the operation. The third type of saline implant has a fixed volume of saline in it and has no valves for filling or removing saline. The last two types are not currently as commonly used for Los Angeles breast augmentation.

Silicone implants, unlike saline, come pre-filled by the manufacturer. They thus require a slightly longer incision during the procedure. In many cases, they tend to feel softer and more natural than saline devices.

There are risks to this surgery. Breast implants may not last forever. They may rupture, leaking fluid into the breast fluid. If this happens, you will likely need have the implants replaced. It is safest to assume that you will have reoperations one or more times in your lifetime. If you choose to have your implants removed completely, you might have dimpling, wrinkling, loss of breast tissue or puckering of the breast.

When you have any of the complications of implants, you may need removal of the implant. The various complications include asymmetry, inflammation, breast pain, calcium deposits, contracture of the capsule, chest wall deformity, rupture, deflation, scarring, lumps, unsatisfactory style or size, or infection.

California breast augmentation can offer improvements in appearance and confidence. Many women have great satisfaction from the changes created with this experience. But the procedure is not for everyone and it is important to make a fully informed decision prior to going forward.

"Green" is the New Blue and Pink: Organic Baby Products are Now Hotter Than Ever

Tue, 13 Apr 2010 00:59:50 -0400

Night feedings, 3 a.m. diaper changes, gargantuan loads of laundry stemming from one small person…being the parent of a tiny, demanding newborn can be stressful enough. Add to it the task of sorting through the vast array of available baby products currently on the market and it can make a new parent feel utterly overwhelmed.
How do you narrow it down and decide just which products would work best for you and your baby?

The Benefits of Organic Baby Products

The sheer number of baby lotions, washes, shampoos, and diaper creams to choose from can be dizzying. The only way to really know which products will work best for your baby is to test them out. It may take some trial and error to get a sense of your favorite products for baby.

A great place to start for personal care products for baby is to seek out organic products. These products are less likely to contain harsh chemicals such as parabens, artificial dyes and colors, synthetic fragrance, propylene glycol, sodium laureate sulfate and pesticides. Many of these chemicals can be skin irritating agents for delicate newborn and infant skin. Another criterion to look for in products for your baby's sensitive skin is hypoallergenic. These specially formulated products are ideal for babies who have had allergic reactions to other products in the past.

Another reason to choose organic baby products is that they are less likely to be tested on animals and/or harmful to the environment than nonorganic products.

Breastfeeding and Nursing Products - Go Organic

There are several reasons to try to stick to organic products when possible, especially when it comes to nursing products that will be touching baby's skin. Newborn skin is sensitive and oftentimes harsh chemicals that are used to treat fibers found in baby blankets, etc. can be very irritating. This is all the more true if your baby has eczema and/or allergies. That is definitely a compelling reason to seek out organic products such as baby blankets and nursing cover ups.

One such product is the Buddy Nursing Cover up made by Buddy Boutique. It is 100 percent organic and allows mom to nurse discreetly in public while keeping baby comfortable. Mom and baby can have eye contact while maintaining privacy. It is soft against baby's cheek and can transition into a burp cloth and toddler-sized bib.

Making Baby Feel Cozy

Babies benefit from close physical contact with their primary caregivers.
"Touch is essential for infant/mother bonding," says Dr. Robert Rodriguez, founder of the Buddy Boutique Web site. "Babies thrive when they are shown love through cuddling and cooing with their caregiver(s)."

Babies respond to touch; many babies form attachments to a "lovie" or security blanket. Buddy Boutique's Organic Buddy Bows Blankee was designed exactly with this is mind. This blanket is unique in that it provides both security and stimulation.

The plush 100 percent organic fabric invites baby to cozy up with it on mom's lap. The organic cotton "bows" that are attached to the blankee's edges provide a soothing, tactile activity for baby.

Navigating the baby product marketplace is no small task. It can seem like an overwhelming initiation into the world of parenting. But armed with some basic guidelines to point you in the direction of healthy, quality products, you will become an expert in no time!

For more information, visit:
http://buddyboutique.com

Breastfeeding in Public

Mon, 12 Apr 2010 21:08:36 -0400

Twenty-first century science proves what many mothers know - breast milk is the best source of infant nutrition. In June 2010, 26 years after the landmark 1984 Surgeon General's Workshop on Breastfeeding and Human Lactation in Rochester, N.Y., breastfeeding in public is now legal in all U.S. states, and societal norms are shifting to embrace what's best for babies. Today, legislation in almost every state protects the rights of mothers to breastfeed their children in public.

"When a mother chooses to breastfeed, we also have a responsibility to protect and support her decision by providing an environment that enables her to be successful," according to Steven K. Galson, Acting Surgeon General of the United States, in 2009.

Without doubt, breastfeeding tops the list of natural choices for parents to make, with health and economic benefits to babies and nursing mothers, according to Dr. Robert Rodriguez, founder of Buddy Boutique, a supplier of healthy, organic, and easy-to-use breastfeeding and baby products, including a popular nursing cover-up.

Dr. Rodriguez, who has studied the behaviors of first-time parents since 1970, publishes and lectures extensively, providing expectant and new parents with ways to have happy, enduring families.

"Mothers who exclusively breastfeed for the first six months, and ideally to 12 months and beyond, will find there are times when they need to feed their infant in public. Breastfeeding in public, like breastfeeding itself, is a learned skill which becomes easier over time," he says.

Despite the growing acceptance of breastfeeding in general, many mothers still remain self-conscious when breastfeeding in public due to cultural mores. They may feel breastfeeding is an intimate activity best performed in private. Or, conversely, they may be more comfortable nursing around strangers than family.

"Whatever the case, mothers will need to negotiate their comfort levels. Breastfeeding is nutritious and optimum for the baby. Everything else takes a back seat," adds Dr. Rodriguez.

He recommends obtaining positive breastfeeding support through organizations like the La Leche League International, whose book The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding remains the definitive work on the subject since 1958, updated to reflect current research.

"Sometimes, there is no ‘right' place and time, and mothers simply must negotiate nursing in the best way possible as their baby's need arises," he says.

Dressing for Access

Nursing mothers can ensure a modest appearance when breastfeeding by choosing clothing with care. Over-sized shirts or tops unbuttoning from the waist provide ease of access without undue exposure. The baby, nestled closely, covers exposed portions of the mother's body. Specially- constructed blouses and dresses hide slits or panels which perform a similar function. Nursing bras provide much-needed support, and can be easily fastened or unfastened with one hand.

Nursing Cover-Ups

Mothers may wish to bring a small blanket to cover the baby and any part of the midriff which might be exposed. In more conservative or public environments, a nursing cover up draped over the mother and infant may offer privacy at a moment's notice, and store easily in a diaper bag or tote. Similarly, women who wear their babies in a sling may choose to use the sling as a cover-up in settings where modesty is a consideration.

Breastfeeding in restaurants

In busy restaurants, mothers may choose seating for privacy.
"The inside corner of a restaurant booth offers significantly more privacy than an aisle seat," says Dr. Rodriguez, though he cautions that in some states privately owned establishments may have the right to ask a nursing mother to leave or relocate at their discretion.

As an alternative option, weather permitting, he also recommends nursing in the car before entering a busy eating establishment. Frequently, a happily fed infant will fall asleep, and ensure a quiet meal for his loving parents.

Practice Nursing Strategies

With practice, discreetly nursing in public becomes second nature.
"If a new mother is worried about appearances, I suggest practice in front of a mirror to perfect her strategies and enhance her comfort level," says Dr. Rodriguez.

Additionally, hungry babies are fussy babies, so Dr. Rodriguez recommends paying attention to baby's actions, such as nuzzling, signaling he's ready to nurse, and feeding before crying becomes an issue.

For more information, visit:
http://buddyboutique.com

Hats Were Intended For Fashion Not For Covering-up a Woman's Bald Spots!

Mon, 08 Mar 2010 01:50:57 -0500

When should someone seek treatment for hair loss?

In a woman's eyes, there can be nothing more devastating than to realize her beautiful hair is falling out more extensively and faster than is normal. It is recognized that Normal hair loss is approximately 100-150 strands a day. Each hair on the scalp has a growing period of 2-6 years, then slips into a short dormant period before the hair falls out from your follicle pushes a new healthy hair through. Where new healthy hairs fail to replace your old hairs or your hair is falling out in clumps or in noticeable sections, these are definite signs for your concern.

Female hair loss can be resulting from a variety of causes - some being only temporary, however, regrettably some are permanent. The temporary causes include such things as pregnancy, anxiety and stress, excessive strong treatments (coloring, bleaching), excessive manipulation, illness, disease, and infections of the scalp. Fortunately for most, natural regrowth will occur as these causes dissipate. But on the other hand, permanent hair loss occurs primarily as a result of heredity and hormonal changes and is not reversed naturally. Women will usually notice hair loss beginning in areas of their parts, noticing the parts becoming wider. Pattern baldness is seen primarily in the frontal areas; or there can be present a general overall hair loss, that typically results in a continual thinning of the entire head where the scalp progressively becomes more and more visible.

There are a variety of treatments for female hair loss you can investigate, including:

1) Exercise; this is one of the best ways to increase blood circulation, particularly to the scalp. Some studies have concluded that increased blood circulation to the scalp can assist in the stimulation of follicles required to produce hair again.

2) Diet; a healthy well-balanced diet is important at all times to encourage healthy hair.

3) Relaxation techniques; Anxiety and stress will most likely accompany your condition that in term does not help your recovery. Meditation to relieve the stress and anxiety is worth some serious thought.

4) There are numerous natural herbal and oil remedies available, mostly topical, being, they involve applying solutions directly onto the scalp, having the desired effect of opening up damaged follicles and enhancing the prospect of hair production. Depending on the individual, varying degrees of success will be seen.

5) Wigs and hair extensions can be a non-permanent form of relief and fortunately, are considered as acceptable fashion accessories today.

6) The development of medical products specifically for females is now available. It is very important that women be certain the products they use are specifically designed for females. As apposed to male hair products that often contain ingredients which can be harmful to women, in particular those of women of child-bearing age. Medical products are increasingly available through prescription and over-the-counter. It is wise to consult with your physician before using any medication, to confirm they will not contra-indicated with any other medication currently being taken or used and importantly, to rule out that the hair loss is not a symptom of an underlying medical condition. Women should wherever, possible choose products designed specifically for women, and preferably FDA approved. Research studies on the effectiveness of both reducing loss and promoting regrowth of most products is available on the internet via Google search. Reputable companies often offer money-back guarantees and most have testimonies (that satisfy the new regulations) from satisfied users. We are all individuals, unique in our make up and our particular problem, therefore the success or the dissatisfaction from one customer will not necessarily relate to your body's response to that particular product.

7) Varying surgical procedures are available for women, including transplants and grafts. These procedures are relatively expensive and should be explored carefully before committing to the cost.

The distress felt from hair loss is a matter for the individual. Remember hats are for fashion, so If your condition bothers you on a daily basis and is impacting on social activities due to embarrassment, you owe it to yourself to take action. Life is to be enjoyed! - Don't stop being you!

Tips on surviving vaginal dryness - and save your marriage!

Sat, 27 Feb 2010 22:50:25 -0500

VAGINAL DRYNESS
Dryness of the vagina, burning and irritation is a common symptom of menopause and affects most women to varying degrees. This is caused by the decrease in estrogen levels which happens gradually over time until it stabilizes at a new lower level. Vaginal dryness is usually experienced only a few years after menopause occurred.

RESULTS OF THE ABSENCE OF ESTROGEN
Estrogen plays an important role in keeping the vaginal tissue moist and healthy. As soon as there is a decrease in estrogen, the following happen:

1. The vaginal lining or mucosa becomes thin and is easily damaged
2. Lubrication decreases which leads to slow and poor lubrication during sexual activity
3. The vagina shrinks due to a reduction in vaginal blood supply and it is known as vaginal atrophy
4. Small wounds caused by intercourse will heal very slowly due to poor deliverance of nutrients from the blood
5. The vagina tends to become less acidic, thus yeast and bacterial infections occurs more frequently
6. The area surrounding the entrance to the vagina (vulva) is more sensitive to the changes in estrogen levels and may become thin, dry and cracked.

The result - you don't want to have sex anymore - and this can put some strain on your relationship or marriage. You partner will not understand what's going on or what you're going through, unless you tell him. If he understands that the reluctance to have sex is not his fault but because of vaginal dryness and the mechanics behind it, he will have a better understanding and can give you better support.

SEX AND VAGINAL DRYNESS
Does that mean you have to give up sex? Definitely not!!! There are various ways to help you improve the moisture content of the vagina. Here are a few methods:

1. "Use it or lose it" Yes, as with other things in life this also applies to your vagina. If you do not have intercourse your vagina will lose its moistness, while having intercourse at least once a week will help your vagina to stay moist and healthy. It will also reduce the symptoms of vaginal atrophy.
2. You can use a lubricant that will reduce friction and the discomfort of intercourse
3. Bioidentical natural estrogen vaginal cream affects the tissue of the vagina and the vulva direct and restores moisture levels over a few weeks.
4. While waiting for the body to naturally restore it's moisture content, a water based lubricant (K-Y Jelly is a good one) can be used for immediate relief. This will make sex more comfortable and relieve the anxiety about painful intercourse. Pain during intercourse can completely kill your urge or desire to have sex. Prevent oil based lubricants such as petroleum jelly and baby oil, as it is not good for the vagina and is also very difficult to remove and maintain a high level of cleanliness and hygiene.
5. Essential fatty acids are very beneficial in preventing or curing vaginal dryness. Of these fatty acids, Omega-3 (Flaxseed oil and fish), Omega-6 (borage oil and evening primrose) and Omega-9 (olive oil) can help to keep the vagina healthy. These fatty acids can also increase hormone production.
6. K-Y Jelly can also be used as a vaginal moisturizer, as it is known for its long lasting effect. A single application can last as long as 72 hours. Some water based lubricants has also shown to increase the acidity of the vagina and thus prevent the growth of infection and increase vaginal secretions.
7. Be careful which soaps you use and avoid harsh soaps.
8. Do not scrub the vulva vigorously as it might cause an irritation. A soft cloth and water will do.
9. The natural form of Vitamin E, instead of the synthetic form, can be very useful for treating vaginal dryness.

THERE IS HOPE
It is a proven fact that sex is an important part of our lives, and that regular intercourse will make you happier, healthier and you will live longer. Don't give up on it or on your marriage, it's worth fighting for. Many women that is in the post-menopausal stage of their life still actively enjoys sex with their partners and are on their way to their happy golden years together.

With good care, perseverance and the right attitude, your sex life may be better now than ever before.