Teen birth and abortion rates, 1996

Country	birth rate	abortion rate	Combined rate
Netherlands	7.7	3.9	11.6
Spain	7.5	4.9	12.4
Italy	6.6	6.7	13.3
Greece	12.2	1.3	13.5
Belgium	9.9	5.2	15.1
Germany	13.0	5.3	18.3
Finland	9.8	9.6	19.4
France	9.4	13.2	22.6
Denmark	8.2	15.4	23.6
Sweden	7.7	17.7	25.4
Norway	13.6	18.3	31.9
Czech Republic	20.1	12.4	32.5
Iceland	21.5	20.6	42.1
Slovak Republic	30.5	13.1	43.6
Australia	20.1	23.9	44
Canada	22.3	22.1	44.4
United Kingdom	29.6	21.3	50.9
New Zealand	33.4	22.5	55.9
Hungary	29.9	30.2	60.1
United States	55.6	30.2	85.8

Socioeconomic and psychological outcomes

Several studies have examined the socioeconomic, medical, and psychological impact of pregnancy and parenthood in teens. Life outcomes for teenage mothers and their children vary; other factors, such as poverty or social support, may be more important than the age of the mother at the birth. Many solutions to counteract the more negative findings have been proposed. Teenage parents who can use family and community support, social services and child-care support to continue their education and get higher paying jobs as they progress with their education.

Medical outcomes

Maternal and prenatal health is of particular concern among teens who are pregnant or parenting. The worldwide incidence of premature birth and low birth weight is higher among adolescent mothers. Research indicates that pregnant teens are less likely to receive prenatal care, often seeking it in the third trimester, if at all. The Guttmacher Institute reports that one-third of pregnant teens receive insufficient prenatal care and that their children are more likely to suffer from health issues in childhood or be hospitalized than those born to older women. However, studies have indicated that young mothers who are given high-quality maternity care have significantly healthier babies than those that do not. Many of the health-issues associated with teenage mothers, many of whom do not have health insurance, appear to result from lack of access to high-quality medical care. Many pregnant teens are subject to nutritional deficiencies from poor eating habits common in adolescence, including attempts to lose weight through dieting, skipping meals, food faddism, snacking, and consumption of fast food.

Inadequate nutrition during pregnancy is an even more marked problem among teenagers in developing countries. Complications of pregnancy result in the deaths of an estimated 70,000 teen girls in developing countries each year. Young mothers and their babies are also at greater risk of contracting HIV. The World Health Organization estimates that the risk of death following pregnancy is twice as great for women between 15 and 19 years than for those between the ages of 20 and 24. The maternal mortality rate can be up to five times higher for girls aged between 10 and 14 than for women of about twenty years of age. Illegal abortion also holds many risks for teenage girls in areas such as sub-Saharan Africa

Risks for medical complications are greater for girls 14 years of age and younger, as an underdeveloped pelvis can lead to difficulties in childbirth. Obstructed labour is normally dealt with by Caesarean section in industrialized nations; however, in developing regions where medical services might be unavailable, it can lead to eclampsia, obstetric fistula, infant mortality, or maternal death. For mothers in their late teens, age in itself is not a risk factor, and poor outcomes are associated more with socioeconomic factors rather than with biology.

Limiting teenage pregnancies

Many health educators have argued that comprehensive sex education would effectively reduce the number of teenage pregnancies, although opponents argue that such education encourages more and earlier sexual activity.

In the UK, the teenage pregnancy strategy, which was run first by the Department of Health and is now based out of the Children, Young People and Families directorate in the Department for Education and Skills, works on several levels to reduce teenage pregnancy and increase the social inclusion of teenage mothers and their families by:

• joined up action, making sure branches of government and health and education services work together effectively;
• prevention of teenage pregnancy through better sex education and improving contraceptive and advice services for young people, involving young people in service design, supporting the parents of teenagers to talk to them about sex and relationships, and targeting high-risk groups;
• better support for teenage mothers, including help returning to education, advice and support, work with young fathers, better childcare and increasing the availability of supported housing.

The teenage pregnancy strategy has had mixed success. Although teenage pregnancies have fallen overall, they have not fallen consistently in every region, and in some areas they have increased. There are questions about whether the 2010 target of a 50% reduction on 1998 levels can be met.

In the United States the topic of sex education is the subject of much contentious debate. Some schools provide "abstinence-only" education and virginity pledges are increasingly popular. A 2004 study by Yale and Columbia Universities found that fully 88 percent of those who pledge abstinence have premarital sex anyway. Most public schools offer "abstinence-plus" programs that support abstinence but also offer advice about contraception. A team of researchers and educators in California have published a list of "best practices" in the prevention of teen pregnancy, which includes, in addition to the previously mentioned concepts, working to "instill a belief in a successful future", male involvement in the prevention process, and designing interventions that are culturally relevant.

The Dutch approach to preventing teenage pregnancy has often been seen as a model by other countries. The curriculum focuses on values, attitudes, communication and negotiation skills, as well as biological aspects of reproduction. The media has encouraged open dialogue and the health-care system guarantees confidentiality and a non-judgmental approach.

In the developing world, programs of reproductive health aimed at teenagers are often small scale and not centrally coordinated, although some countries such as Indonesia and Sri Lanka have a systematic policy framework for teaching about sex within schools. Non-governmental agencies such as the International Planned Parenthood Federation provide contraceptive advice for young women worldwide. Laws against child marriage have reduced but not eliminated the practice. Improved female literacy and educational prospects have led to an increase in the age at first birth in areas such as Iran, Indonesia, and the Indian state of Kerala.

Childhood environment

Women exposed to abuse, domestic violence, and family strife in childhood are more likely to become pregnant as teenagers, and the risk of becoming pregnant as a teenager increases with the number of adverse childhood experiences. According to a 2004 study, one-third of teenage pregnancies could be prevented by eliminating exposure to abuse, violence, and family strife. The researchers note that "family dysfunction has enduring and unfavorable health consequences for women during the adolescent years, the childbearing years, and beyond." When the family environment does not include adverse childhood experiences, becoming pregnant as an adolescent does not appear to raise the likelihood of long-term, negative psychosocial consequences. Studies have also found that boys raised in homes with a battered mother, or who experienced physical violence directly, were significantly more likely to impregnate a girl

Studies have also found that girls whose fathers left the family early in their lives had the highest rates of early sexual activity and adolescent pregnancy. Girls whose fathers left them at a later age had a lower rate of early sexual activity, and the lowest rates are found in girls whose fathers were present throughout their childhood. Even when the researchers took into account other factors that could have contributed to early sexual activity and pregnancy, such as behavioral problems and life adversity, early father-absent girls were still about five times more likely in the United States and three times more likely in New Zealand to become pregnant as adolescents than were father-present girls.

Low educational expectations have been pinpointed as a risk factor A girl is also more likely to become a teenage parent if her mother or older sister gave birth in her teens. A majority of respondents in a 1988 Joint Center for Political and Economic Studies survey attributed the occurrence of adolescent pregnancy to a breakdown of communication between parents and child and also to inadequate parental supervision.

Foster care youth are more likely than their peers to become pregnant as teenagers. The National Casey Alumni Study, which surveyed foster care alumni from 23 communities across the United States, found the birth rate for girls in foster care was more than double the rate of their peers outside the foster care system. A University of Chicago study of youth transitioning out of foster care in Illinois, Iowa, and Wisconsin found that nearly half of the females had been pregnant by age 19. The Utah Department of Human Services found that girls who had left the foster care system between 1999 and 2004 had a birth rate nearly 3 times the rate for girls in the general population.

Socioeconomic factors

Poverty is associated with increased rates of teenage pregnancy. Economically poor countries such as Niger and Bangladesh have far more teenage mothers compared with economically rich countries such as Switzerland and Japan.

In the UK, around half of all pregnancies to under 18s are concentrated among the 30% most deprived population, with only 14% occurring among the 30% least deprived. In Italy, the teenage birth rate in the well-off central regions is only 3.3 per 1,000, while in the poorer Mezzogiorno it is 10.0 per 1000.Sociologist Mike A. Males noted that teenage birth rates closely mapped poverty rates in California:

Teen pregnancy costs the United States over $7 billion annually.

County	Poverty rate	Birth rate*
Marin County	5%	5
Tulare County (Caucasians)	18%	50
Tulare County (Hispanics)	40%	100

* per 1000 women aged 15-19

There is little evidence to support the common belief that teenage mothers become pregnant to get benefits, welfare, and council housing. Most knew little about housing or financial aid before they got pregnant and what they thought they knew often turned out to be wrong.

Dating violence

Studies have indicated that adolescent girls are often in abusive relationships at the time of their conceiving They have also reported that knowledge of their pregnancy has often intensified violent and controlling behaviours on part of their boyfriends. Women under age 18 are twice as likely to be beaten by their child's father than women over age 18. A UK study found that 70% of women who gave birth in their teens had experienced adolescent domestic violence.Similar results have been found in studies in the United States. A Washington study found 70% of teenage mothers had been beaten by their boyfriends, 51% had experienced attempts of birth control sabotage within the last year, and 21% experienced school or work sabotage

In a study of 379 pregnant or parenting teens and 95 teenage girls without children, 62% of the girls aged 11-15 years and 56% of girls aged 16-19 years reported experiencing domestic violence at the hands of their partners. Moreover, 51% of the girls reported experiencing at least one instance where their boyfriend attempted to sabotage their efforts to use birth control.

Sexual abuse

Studies have found that between 11 and 20 percent of pregnancies in teenagers are a direct result of rape, while about 60 percent of teenage mothers had unwanted sexual experiences preceding their pregnancy. Before age 15, a majority of first-intercourse experiences among females are reported to be non-voluntary; the Guttmacher Institute found that 60 percent of girls who had sex before age 15 were coerced by males who on average were six years their senior. One in five teenage fathers admitted to forcing girls to have sex with them.

Multiple studies have indicated a strong link between early childhood sexual abuse and subsequent teenage pregnancy in industrialized countries. Up to 70 percent of women who gave birth in their teens were molested as young girls; by contrast, 25 percent for women who did not give birth as teens were molested

In many countries, sexual intercourse between a minor and an adult is not considered consensual under the law because a minor is believed to lack the maturity and competence to make an informed decision to engage in fully consensual sex with an adult. Sex with a minor in developed countries is considered statutory rape, although what constitutes statutory rape differs by jurisdiction (see age of consent).

Age discrepancy in relationships

According to the Family Research Council, studies in the US indicate that age discrepancy between the teenage girls and the men who impregnate them is an important contributing factor. Teenage girls in relationships with older boys, and in particular with adult men, are more likely to become pregnant than teenage girls in relationships with boys their own age. They are also more likely to carry the baby to term rather than have an abortion. A review of California's 1990 vital statistics found that men older than high school age fathered 77 percent of all births to high school-aged girls (ages 16-18), and 51 percent of births to junior high school-aged girls (15 and younger). Men over age 25 fathered twice as many children of teenage mothers than boys under age 18, and men over age 20 fathered five times as many children of junior high school-aged girls as did junior high school-aged boys. A 1992 Washington state study of 535 adolescent mothers found that 62 percent of the mothers had a history of being raped or sexual molested by men whose ages averaged 27 years. This study found that, compared with nonabused mothers, abused adolescent mothers initiated sex earlier, had sex with much older partners, and engaged in riskier, more frequent, and promiscuous sex. Studies by the Population Reference Bureau and the National Center for Health Statistics found that about two-thirds of children born to teenage girls in the United States are fathered by adult men age 20 or older.

Contraception

Adolescents may lack knowledge of, or access to, conventional methods of preventing pregnancy, as they may be too embarrassed or frightened to seek such information.

In the United States, according to the 2002 National Surveys of Family Growth, in 2002, sexually active adolescent women wishing to avoid pregnancy were less likely than those of other ages to use contraceptives (18% of 15- to 19-year-olds used no contraceptives, versus 10.7% average for women ages 15 to 44). More than 80% of teen pregnancies are unintended. Over half of unintended pregnancies were to women not using contraceptives, most of the rest are due to inconsistent or incorrect use. 23% of sexually active young women in a 1996 Seventeen magazine poll admitted to having had unprotected sex with a partner who did not use a condom, while 70% of girls in a 1997 PARADE poll claimed it was embarrassing to buy birth control or request information from a doctor.^[22]

Among teens in the UK seeking an abortion, a study found that the rate of contraceptive use was roughly the same for teens as for older women.

In other cases, contraception is used, but proves to be inadequate. Inexperienced adolescents may use condoms incorrectly or forget to take oral contraceptives. Contraceptive failure rates are higher for teenagers, particularly poor ones, than for older users. Reversible longer term methods such as intrauterine devices, subcutaneous implants, or injections (Depo provera, Combined injectable contraceptive), require less frequent user action, lasting from a month to years, and may prevent pregnancy more effectively in women who have trouble following routines, including many young women. The simultaneous use of more than one contraceptive measure further decreases the risk of unplanned pregnancy, and if one is a condom barrier method, the transmission of sexually transmitted disease is also reduced

Adolescent sexual behavior

According to information available from the Guttmacher Institute, sex by age 20 is the norm across the world, and countries with low levels of adolescent pregnancy accept sexual relationships among teenagers and provide comprehensive and balanced information about sexuality.

However, in a Kaiser Family Foundation study of US teenagers, 29% of teens reported feeling pressure to have sex, 33% of sexually active teens reported "being in a relationship where they felt things were moving too fast sexually", and 24% had "done something sexual they didn’t really want to do". Several polls have indicated peer pressure as a factor in encouraging both girls and boys to have sex. Inhibition-reducing drugs and alcohol may encourage unintended sexual activity.

Causes of teenage pregnancy

In some societies, early marriage and traditional gender roles are important factors in the rate of teenage pregnancy. For example, in some sub-Saharan African countries, early pregnancy is often seen as a blessing because it is proof of the young woman's fertility.In the Indian subcontinent, early marriage and pregnancy is more common in traditional rural communities compared to the rate in cities.

In societies where adolescent marriage is uncommon, young age at first intercourse and lack of contraceptive use may be factors in teen pregnancy. Most teenage pregnancies in the developed world appear to be unplanned.

Keep an upbeat attitude

if you plan to keep your baby, you will want to do it with support from those who love you. Don't alienate your family - give them time to warm up to the idea. Your parents won't be able to deny a beautiful child once it is here. Appeal to their better nature, and approach them with a plan for your future. Show them that with their help, you can and will take charge of your new life.

Both my parents were very supportive

but this is not always the case for young moms. In fact, many teens report that they are terrified of what their parent's reaction may be - and with good reason if they are from a broken or unsupportive family. It can be easy to stereotype and assume that teen moms are usually from this kind of home, but that would be counter-productive. I was not from a "broken home", but life happens and not always the way we plan it. We as a society need to be more supportive of all moms, of all walks of life.

Telling your parents is the tricky part

Since my mom delivers babies for a living, there wasn't much chance of hiding it from her for long. Before I could decide how to do it, she had already guessed. I had mentioned to her that I wasn't going to class one evening, and when she asked why I told her that I felt nauseous. She immediately knew. Since I wasn't living with her, she suggested I tell my dad soon. As fate would have it, they ran into each other at the grocery store and she warned him that I had something I needed to confide to him. He more or less guessed it on his own as well.

Typically, the first person you should tell will be the father of the child

The way you go about this will vary depending on your relationship. If you are in a serious relationship, you may have suspected pregnancy and taken the test together, in which case you both found out at the same time. If you are not in a serious relationship, chances are that you took the test alone, or perhaps with a close girlfriend. Either way, you will need to tell the father as he needs to be given the amount of responsibility that he is due. However, always keep in mind that while it takes two to tango, creating a baby does not a father make. You will initially have a 50/50 chance of the father being there for this child, so don't push him away by being demanding of him or you may lessen your chances. At any rate, the two of you need to decide what you are going to do, although it is ultimately your body and your decision.

Coping with Chronic Pain

by Dr. Richie

Coping with severe chronic pain from conditions such as arthritis and injuries from sprains and strains affect so many of us. One day you are active and feel great and then the next day you are stiff as a two-by-four. A sprain or strain can occur very easily and it can be simply rectified by stretching more frequently. While a chronic condition like one of the several forms of arthritis, bursistis, and tendinitis affect 70% of the population in North America and will require some sort of treatment or remedy.

Joints are the areas where two bones meet in our body, like a knee,shoulder,hip, or other vertabrea. They make the skeleton flexible ” without them, movement would be impossible. Our joints are so often not thought about until they become painful and cause discomfort; unfortunately then the individual is left coping with severe chronic pain. All joints are cushioned by a substance called cartilage. Cartilage acts as a shock absorber to prevent the bones in our joints from grinding together and wearing down. There is also a certain amount of fluid present in joints to keep them well-oiled and free moving. The bursae are fluid-filled sacs that cushion and pad bony prominences, allowing muscles and tendons to move freely over the bone.

Because of the joints makeup, the joints have limited blood flow and as a result can heal very slowly. Inflammation and waste matter around the joint from injury or chronic condition like that of arthritis can take some time to decrease and it’s that inflammation and waste matter causing the discomfort and reducing your ability to move. Coping with severe chronic pain during this prolonged period or healing can be very difficult and this is why some many individuals seek some type of natural remedy for relief.

Glucosamine and Chondroitin

These supplements can be found together in many popular brands such as JointAdvance, JointEast, Eazol and Osteo Bi-flex. Both glucosamine and chondroiton are a nutritional approach to maintaining the fluids needed to lubricate joints and cartilage. These two supplements, taken regularly, can inhibit this type of activity in our bodies, enabling our system to maintain and promote new cartilage and connective tissue.

Glucosamine is an amino-sugar found in the body that stimulates growth of new cartilage. Consequently, it can also help to reduce joint pain. In studies, patients using glucosamine experienced as much pain relief as those taking over-the-counter medications. Due to possible blood sugar irregularities and an increase in insulin resistance, diabetics should consult a physician prior to starting a glucosamine regimen.

Chondroitin has been shown to improve joint mobility by maintaining the fluid needed in the core structure of cartilage. This protects cartilage and promotes healing. There are no known side effects, although there is an ongoing debate on how well the body can absorb this supplement.

Healing When the discomfort in your body goes away and you begin to feel normal again you still are not fully healed. However, this is usually when we start acting like everything is fine and continue carrying on with our daily activities. We dont realize we are just going to reinjure the area and the discomfort will come back. It’s not your fault though. It’s just not possible to stop everything and rest your body properly. What ends up happening is we continually reinjure the area through our daily activities and this can ultimately lead to osteoarthritis. HAJoint Formula Free Bottle Offer. Supports joint pain relief thru healthy flexibility, mobility, and lubrication.

Every time you move your body, the tendons and surrounding tissue around your bones move and when they are inflamed from an injury or chronic condition, every movement hurts and impacts simple every day activities. Without some type of joint pain relief remedy our daily activities become extremely painful and completing simple tasks is difficult. Did you know that once your joints are injured they become very difficult to recover 100%.

Eazol is an effective, natural solution for everyday aches and pains. Eazol contains White Willow Bark, Lobelia, and Boswellia. These herbs have been used by ancient healers for centuries to ease everyday aches and pains.

Omega Daily is the miracle from the sea, a superior source of Omega-3. It’s made from extracts of the green-lipped mussel, a natural, pure New Zealand source of the highest quality and most effective Omega-3 oil you can buy. Omega daily is good for your heart- cardiovascular heatlh improves, mind - mood and memory are elevated, and body; to keep you young, active and healthy. OmegaDaily has no side effects, and best of all, you don’t need a prescription to get it.

About the Author:

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Is Breast Pumping Right For You

by Melanie Brooks

A breast pump is an automatic device that can be used to bring out milk for later use from a breast feeding woman. The way a breast pump works is a lot like to milking instruments used in commercial dairy companies.

The mile that has been extracted can be stored so that if needed anyone can feed the baby by a bottle. In come cases the mother can produce more milk than the baby can hold. In this situation a breast pump can be helpful when the breasts become engorged which can prevent proper latching by the infant. When a woman uses a breast pump it relieves pressure. A breast pump can come into play when you have a child that cannot properly latch onto the breast. Since breastfeeding helps to speed up the recovery process in a pregnancy, many times woman will continue breast pumping even when they no longer need to breast feed.

There are many types of breast pumps to choose from. The main differences you have are automatic or manual. Which most women prefer the automatic, and that they can just lay back and let the machine do all the work. You also have double and single breast pumps, and if you are all about saving time then you will want to invest in a double breast pump.

You should started breast pumping as soon as the baby is born. A high grade double electric pump can be used to help build up your supply of breast milk.. Many hospitials can supply a breast pump for you while you are still in their care. For the first couple of weeks you will need to use a breast pump 8-10 times in a 24 hrs time frame. The more you pump the better stimulation which establishes a good supply of breast mile. The hospital can provide the instructions on how to store and transport the milk to the bottles. You should follow the guidelines to avoid passing harmful stuff to the baby. Knowing how to sterile bottles and sterilize pump is very important as well

You need to use pump the breast at least 6 to 8 times in a day that the mother is able to start direct breastfeeding. Then, lower the length of pumping by a couple of minutes if the supply becomes very large. Even if the babys intake is down, as in the cases of premie babies, breast pumping needs to continue on as though the baby was born at fullterm.

About the Author:

Finding a good selection of Cheap Breast Pumps can be difficult for any mother to be, but you can find great deals on Cheap Medela Breast Pumps If you are willing to search and do price comparrisons of breast pumps and prices.

Ensure the Wellness of Your New Baby

by Ellen Valentine, CNC

A new baby is a beautiful and indescribable blessing to any family. Months of preparation and anticipation lead up to a very climactic birth day. All is well it seems, mother and baby are doing wonderfully and in a day or two will head home. From the warm, safe and very recognizable, to the baby, environment of moms womb, what environment, what cocoon will provide your baby safety from here on out?

Unless you specify during pregnancy that your baby will be wrapped in only the safest and best 100% cotton organic materials possible you will receive lots of gifts in blankets and crib materials that will not be so supportive for a newborn. Let people know early on your preferences for organic and green. This will ensure safe and cozy crib bedding for your sweet baby. Why cotton and why organic?

Certain clothes, especially permanent press, wrinkle free and water resilient fabrics are dipped or sprayed in formaldehyde, which is also used as embalming fluid. Many fabrics on sofas, chairs and carpets are preserved with harmful chemicals such as formaldehyde. Formaldehyde has some alias names to look for: Formalin, Methanal, Methyl aldehyde, Methylene oxide, Morbicid acid and Oxymethylene.

Long term benefits will result from taking a stand for organic, especially next to your new precious baby. Remember that organic is different than merely meeting safety standards.

With constant contact, any person, and especially a small person will acquire sensitivities. These are simply put, allergies. Without constant mineralization and good enzymes, they will get progressively worse throughout life.

Sensitivities are what many call allergies. An allergic reaction can appear as benign as a slight skin rash, or unbearable dermatitis. Allergies can also come on unexpectedly as a life threatening asthma attack or anaphylactic shock. No need for scare tactics though; it is enough said that any of those aforementioned reactions are not what you want for a newborn infant or any person.

The best way to insure a healthy environment for the entire home, starting with baby is fine though, is to buy 100% cotton, organic and from a reputable company. There are many listed in the green directories, online and most search engines.

No parent knowingly wants to harm their child; and even with the best intentioned lifestyles there are always possibilities that as a child grows that he or she will be introduced to toxic materials. Good natural health and a healthy green environment is about creating strength, not a lifetime of protection. The best defense is a mineral-rich and enzyme-full diet, healthy support and respect for the environment.

Those babies and children who have a poor diet, rich in fast foods, sugars, hydrogenated fats and sodas will always be those that go to the doctor more, are diagnosed with strange diseases, labeled ADHD, etc. Not meant simply as a general statement, it is meant to emphasize what makes all the difference between a child that survives to adulthood and one that thrives to be a productive and vibrant part of society

Breast fed babies have a great lead into life when mom is a healthy eater. Whether prenatal or during breast feeding a woman should eat well so that her health can recoup post natal.

What to Do If You Suspect Allergies?

First of all you must stop all contact with the irritant whether it is a food, a fabric, an environmental contaminant such as air, water, etc. This is most crucial when dealing with allergic reactions suffered by the very young or the very old.

The body is equipped with digestive juice factories. Some are located in the mouth, some in the stomach, some juices that digest travel from the liver and pancreas through the hepatopancreatic duct to supply digestive help in the duodenum, the first part of the small intestine.

When the body is depleted of the juices it needs to digest, even proteins which could be building blocks, become instead boulders the body simply carries along until it has the capacity to rid itself of what has become a liability. At this crucial point 75% - 80% of all foods ingested should be raw or lightly cooked.

During times of allergy outbreak, and I would add always, dairy should be avoided completely, along with any food that looks white or colorless, processed meats, canned or pre-packaged foods and sugars. In addition, having a good naturopath or nutritional counselor will create the support the parent needs to do the right thing for children who struggle with health.

Precautions and Solutions

Creating Green Environments is going to be our best ally for the future. Begin small and add on something new each month.

Eating whole and natural creates whole Human Beings. If you are pregnant or newly into parenthood ” begin now. Begin throwing out dead foods and replace them one by one with live food. Make it a family quest and project. What fun!

Create an organic nursery for your organic and healthy baby. This is a new beginning for your entire family, no matter whether you are expecting child #1 or #5.

Look for whole and green everywhere. Expect the best and insist upon it. To Your Best Health, Ellen Valentine, CNC

About the Author:

Ellen Valentine is a nutritionist who has practiced herbalogy and naturopathy since 1975. She is passionate about assisting awareness concerning health and eating habits. Healthy Families Today and A Green Earth Tomorrow. Baby Nursery Bedding for your baby’s health.

Diabetes Remedies That Work

by Thomas Wilson

How come Diabetes can be equalled to a dreadful ” Silent Killer “,a tacit cause of death? What Explanation can we attribute to this terrible attribute of Diabetes? The primary cause of its occurence is the lofty levels of blood sugar on account of lowly levels of Insulin in the body.

Regular Physical Activity and following a healthy pattern of eating habits can be assumed as the basic treatment for Diabetes. In addition insulin taken either by,injection,pen or pump assists . Blood sugar levels throughout the day should be monitored. Diabetes of the grade of Type 2 may need oral mediacation and insulin to keep a check on the Blood sugar levels.

Natural cures for Diabetes are for those who don’t want to subject themselves to the needle often in a day and thus avoiding insulin. Here are some treatments for diabetes which can be graded as natural cures and you would be interested to have a look a them.

In such scenarios, massage can help. In that respect a number of varieties of massaging methods are there which can be used on diabetics to make massaging as extraordinary natural way to cure diabetes. With the innovative and efficient massaging techniques that are applied today, it ameliorates the diabetic’s conditions by doing away with undesirable toxins from the body and improving the circulation of blood.

Another widely used technique in discourse for Diabetes is Mud Pack. Linkage of Diabetes to excessive increase in the levels of toxins in one particular organ ,generally belonging to the digestive or endocrine system of the Human Body. The mud packs are capable of cooling down the nervous system and thus helping in eliminating these toxins.

Detoxification is another natural way to treat diabetes. Your Doctor or Health agency could give you a controlled diet plan. In addition to diet plan consuming supplements may also be necessary to remove the toxins present in your body. Quite a number of detoxification diet plans are available. These diet plans should be followed in letter by you to get rid of diabetes.

These are unconventional healing programs to treat diabetes but before undertaking them you should consult your Doctor. One thing to keep in mind is that you are in charge of your own wellness and whether these treatments could help , your Doctor’s advice could be of great help.

About the Author:

When you are looking for Access diabetes supply, visit diabetesserv.com for more information on what is diabetes.

Shopping Tips For Plus Sizes

by Janet Tyler

During the past couple of years, there is a steady rise in the amount of plus sized womens plus size clothes online and those that are made available to the public. And while the world continues to be mesmerized and enthralled with being slim, plus sized fashion is steadily creeping into the main stream.

Because of this, there are plenty of options for plus sized women to strut their stuff and be as fashionable as they want to be. So speaking of plus sized womens clothing, here are some tips that will help you choose the right plus sized clothing for your figure:

Being fashionable plus size tip number one: Think of your curves Show of your curves and stray away from clothes that do not fit. Most plus sized women think of hiding their curves and are content in hiding their figures. However, if you want to be fashionable, you need to love your figure and learn to show of how voluptuous you are.

Plus sized fashion tip number two: Keep it simple Simplicity is the best way that you should go when you have a plus sized figure. You should carefully choose the prints that you wear and try to stay away from anything floral or those that have geometrical shapes. These types of prints will only make you appear wider than what you really are. Also, you should try and lessen the amount of embellishments that you have on your clothes. Chiffons, sequins and glitter fabric will only bring more attention to the fabric ” which is not what you want. You want for people to notice your figure looking good in what ever piece of clothing you are wearing and not the other way around.

Plus sized fashion tip number three: Darker tones are always the best choice. Common knowledge dictates that black and similar darker colors have a slimming effect on people. This well known belief is actually true that is why many women in general always have the classic black dress at their disposal. However, if you want to kick it up a notch, plus size women can base an entire ward robe off of a dark color of their choice. You can create a wardrobe that will compliment your figure as well as creating a sexy yet classy look.

Cant get wrong tips for plus sized fashion tip number four: Love dark colors. Dark colors like black and navy are sleek, clean, classy and most of all slimming. And while you love you figure as it is, you do not want to look bigger and wider than what you are. Always remember that you can never go wrong with the color black. So with the onset of womens plus sized clothes online, a new era in fashion is slowly beginning. Fashion is for everybody no matter what body type they may have.

Being fashionable plus size tip number five: Say no to flowers and geometric shapes And while black is the color that makes you slimmer, flowered prints and geometric figures will only give you the illusion of being bigger and wider that you really are.

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Is Coffee Good Or Bad For You?

by Borgon Trocepticlon

If you ever conduct a survey on the topic: “What wakes you up in the morning? What boosts your energy level and makes you feel fresh and activated?” …You will no doubt get this answer: Coffee or tea, both of which have a high level of caffeine, the coffee having a larger amount.

Caffeine is basically a drug which is gathered from tea leaves, kola nuts and coffee beans. It is widely used in medicines, chocolates, and even flavorings. Caffeine is highly addictive which enslaves its addict and increases his reliance on caffeine.

Caffeine addiction is one of the biggest problems in the world today, but people will never admit that they are facing this problem. Caffeine is widely popular because it helps to keep the body more alert, it increases the heart rate of the body, and it also increases the sugar level in the blood.

But caffeine’s negative symptoms are manifold. Regular use of caffeine causes the water level of the body to drop as caffeine is a diuretic causing frequent urination. It also reduces the span of deep sleep and the person becomes so addicted to caffeine that if its level per day is reduced the person will show negative behavior. Frustration, nausea, migraines, fatigue, lack of concentration and muscle pain are some of the symptoms of withdrawing from caffeine.

Caffeine should be avoided by pregnant women as it is known to have negative effects on the unborn child. Caffeine can enter the placenta and the fetus can be negatively affected by its strong effect and it can increase the risk of miscarriage. Caffeine is associated with lower birth weight of the infant and increased pain during labor. Pregnant women should cut out caffeine in their diet totally or confer with their doctor for more consultation.

A person will become more prone to panic attacks and nervousness if his intake of caffeine is three to four cups a day. Adrenaline level also shoots up due to caffeine which causes insomnia. This wakefulness is especially experienced by night shift workers as they cannot catch shut-eye even in the day. Dark circles under the eyes, edginess and jumpy nerves are a few more disadvantages of a high dosage of daily caffeine.

People also acquire cardiac problems and diabetes because of the rise in the heart rate, blood pressure and blood sugar level. Moreover those suffering from gastric problems and stomach acidity should guard themselves and take caution with caffeine as it also causes stomach aches and increases the bowel movements. Bowel disorders are a very common side effect of caffeine.

Caffeine can trigger yearnings for food and thus result in obesity and weight gain. The disadvantages of caffeine seem limitless standing opposite to its advantages. Though coffee can revitalize the body, its effect remains only for four to six hours. Later the body hungers for the instantaneous power. This can induce dependence of caffeine. A healthy life can only be achieved if a person discontinues relying on caffeine for instant vivacity. Reducing caffeine from the daily diet should be accepted as a challenge.

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Physical changes

Weight is gained during pregnancy due to increased appetite, fat deposition, and growth of the reproductive organs and fetus, as well as increased blood volume and water retention. Anywhere from 5 pounds (2.3 kg) to over 100 pounds (45 kg) can be gained during pregnancy. In America, the doctor-recommended weight gain range is 25 pounds (11 kg) to 35 pounds (16 kg), less if the woman is overweight, more (up to 40 pounds (18 kg)) if the woman is underweight.

Other physical changes during pregnancy include breasts increasing two cup sizes. Also areas of the body such as the forehead and cheeks (known as the 'mask of pregnancy') become darker due to the increase of melanin being produced.

The female body experiences many changes as the fetus grows through each trimester as shown and discussed in this pregnancy video. Two women at different stages in their pregnancy illustrate what has happened to their bodies.

Musculoskeletal changes

The body's posture changes as the pregnancy progresses. The pelvis tilts and the back arches to help keep balance. Poor posture occurs naturally from the stretching of the woman's abdominal muscles as the fetus grows. These muscles are less able to contract and keep the lower back in proper alignment. The pregnant woman has a different pattern of gait. The step lengthens as the pregnancy progresses, due to weight gain and changes in posture. On average, a woman's foot can grow by a half size or more during pregnancy. In addition, the increased body weight of pregnancy, fluid retention, and weight gain lowers the arches of the foot, further adding to the foot's length and width. The influences of increased hormones such as estrogen and relaxin initiate the remodeling of soft tissues, cartilage and ligaments. Certain skeletal joints such as the symphysis pubis and sacroiliac widen or have increased laxity.

Hormonal changes

Levels of progesterone and oestrogens rise continually throughout pregnancy, suppressing the hypothalamic axis and subsequently the menstrual cycle. The woman and the placenta also produce many hormones.

Prolactin levels increase due to maternal Pituitary gland enlargement by 50%. This mediates a change in the structure of the Mammary gland from ductal to lobular-alveolar. Parathyroid hormone is increased due to increases of calcium uptake in the gut and reabsorption by the kidney. Adrenal hormones such as cortisol and aldosterone also increase.

Placental lactogen is produced by the placenta and stimulates lipolysis and fatty acid metabolism by the woman, conserving blood glucose for use by the fetus. It also decreases maternal tissue sensitivity to insulin, resulting in gestational diabetes.

Physiological changes in pregnancy

The body must change its physiological and homeostatic mechanisms in pregnancy to ensure the fetus is provided for. Increases in blood sugar, breathing and cardiac output are all required.

Prenatal development and sonograph images

Prenatal development is divided into two primary biological stages. The first is the embryonic stage, which lasts for about two months. At this point, the fetal stage begins. At the beginning of the foetal stage, the risk of miscarriage decreases sharply,all major structures including hands, feet, head, brain, and other organs are present, and they continue to grow and develop. When the fetal stage commences, a fetus is typically about 30 mm (1.2 inches) in length, and the heart can be seen beating via sonograph; the fetus bends the head, and also makes general movements and startles that involve the whole body. Some fingerprint formation occurs from the beginning of the fetal stage

Electrical brain activity is first detected between the 5th and 6th week of gestation, though this is still considered primitive neural activity rather than the beginning of conscious thought, something that develops much later in fetation. Synapses begin forming at 17 weeks, and at about week 28 begin multiply at a rapid pace which continues until 3-4 months after birth. It isn't until week 23 that the fetus can survive, albeit with major medical support, outside of the womb. It is not until then that the fetus possesses a sustainable human brain.

Embryo at 4 weeks after fertilization	Fetus at 8 weeks after fertilization	Fetus at 18 weeks after fertilization	Fetus at 38 weeks after fertilization
Relative size in 1st month (simplified illustration)	Relative size in 3rd month (simplified illustration)	Relative size in 5th month (simplified illustration)	Relative size in 9th month (simplified illustration)

One way to observe prenatal development is via ultrasound images. Modern 3D ultrasound images provide greater detail for prenatal diagnosis than the older 2D ultrasound technology. Whilst 3D is popular with parents desiring a prenatal photograph as a keepsake both 2D and 3D are discouraged by the FDA for non-medical use, but there are no definitive studies linking ultrasound to any adverse medical effects. The following 3D ultrasound images were taken at different stages of pregnancy:

3-inch fetus (about 14 weeks gestational age)

Fetus at 17 weeks

Fetus at 20 weeks

Third trimester

Final weight gain takes place, which is the most weight gain throughout the pregnancy. The fetus will be growing the most rapidly during this stage, gaining up to 28g per day. The woman's belly will transform in shape as the belly drops due to the fetus turning in a downward position ready for birth. During the second trimester, the woman's belly would have been very upright, whereas in the third trimester it will drop down quite low, and the woman will be able to lift her belly up and down. The fetus begins to move regularly, and is felt by the woman. Fetal movement can become quite strong and be disruptive to the woman. The woman's navel will sometimes become convex, "popping" out, due to her expanding abdomen. This period of her pregnancy can be uncomfortable, causing symptoms like weak bladder control and back-ache. Movement of the fetus becomes stronger and more frequent and via improved brain, eye, and muscle function the fetus is prepared for ex utero viability. The woman can feel the fetus "rolling" and it may cause pain or discomfort when it is near the woman's ribs and spine.

It is during this time that a baby born prematurely may survive. The use of modern medical intensive care technology has greatly increased the probability of premature babies surviving, and has pushed back the boundary of viability to much earlier dates than would be possible without assistance. In spite of these developments, premature birth remains a major threat to the fetus, and may result in ill-health in later life, even if the baby survives.

Second trimester

Months 4 through 6 of the pregnancy are called the second trimester. Most women feel more energized in this period, and begin to put on weight as the symptoms of morning sickness subside and eventually fade away.

In the 20th week the uterus, the muscular organ that holds the developing fetus, can expand up to 20 times its normal size during pregnancy.

Although the fetus begins moving and takes a recognizable human shape during the first trimester, it is not until the second trimester that movement of the fetus, often referred to as "quickening", can be felt. This typically happens in the fourth month, more specifically in the 20 to 21 week, or by the 19th week if the woman has been pregnant before. However, it is not uncommon for some women to not feel the fetus move until much later. The placenta is now fully functioning and the fetus is making insulin and urinating. The reproductive organs distinguish the fetus as male or female.

First trimester

Comparison of growth of the abdomen between 26 weeks and 40 weeks gestation.

Traditionally, doctors have measured pregnancy from a number of convenient points, including the day of last menstruation, ovulation, fertilization, implantation and chemical detection. In medicine, pregnancy is often defined as beginning when the developing embryo becomes implanted into the endometrial lining of a woman's uterus. In some cases where complications may have arisen, the fertilized egg might implant itself in the fallopian tubes or the cervix, causing an ectopic pregnancy. Most pregnant women do not have any specific signs or symptoms of implantation, although it is not uncommon to experience minimal bleeding at implantation. Some women will also experience cramping during their first trimester. This is usually of no concern unless there is spotting or bleeding as well. After implantation the uterine endometrium is called the decidua.The placenta which is formed partly from the decidua and partly from outer layers of the embryo is responsible for transport of nutrients and oxygen to, and removal of waste products from the fetus. The umbilical cord is the connecting cord from the embryo or fetus to the placenta.The developing embryo undergoes tremendous growth and changes during the process of foetal development.

Morning sickness can occur in about seventy percent of all pregnant women and typically improves after the first trimester.

In the first 12 weeks of pregnancy the nipples and areolas darken due to a temporary increase in hormones.

Most miscarriages occur during this period.

Physiology

The term trimester redirects here. For the term trimester used in academic settings, see Academic term

Pregnancy is typically broken into three periods, or trimesters, each of about three months. While there are no hard and fast rules, these distinctions are useful in describing the changes that take place over time.

1 million Pakistani women abused during pregnancy: expert

LAHORE: Annually an estimated one million pregnant Pakistani women are physically abused at least once during pregnancy by their partners.

This was said by Prof Unaiza Niaz, the president of the Women Section of World Psychiatric Association and director of the Institute of Psycho-Trauma Pakistan, while delivering a lecture on Gender issues and Women’s Mental Health at the University of Health Sciences (UHS) here on Friday.

Prof Niaz said research indicated strong association between gender-based violence and mental health. Depression, anxiety and stress-related syndromes, dependence on psychotropic medications and substance use and suicide were mental health problems associated with violence in women’s lives, she added.

She was of the view that women experienced mental illnesses differently than men and the illnesses could affect women at any time regardless of age, race or income. She further said common disorders affecting women included depression, eating disorders, anxiety disorders, postpartum and bipolar disorders, adding that nearly twice as many women as men were affected by depression or anxiety disorder.

Prof Niaz observed that negative effects of globalisation and economic reforms on public health had hit women harder than men. “More than one billion people, mostly women, are living in extreme poverty and the change in the trend makes few experts feel the onset of ‘feminization’ of poverty.”

She further said that in Pakistan, societal attitudes and norms, as well as cultural practices such as Karo Kari and Vani severely affected women’s mental health. Religious and ethnic conflicts, along with the dehumanising attitude towards women, the extended family system, role of in-laws, represented major issues and stressors, Dr Niaz said, adding: “Gender discrimination at each stage of the female life cycle contributes to health disparity, sex selective abortions, neglect of girl children, reproductive mortality, and poor access to healthcare for girls and women.” She stated that risk of depression in women was higher during the childbearing years. She said women were also vulnerable to depression during the period immediately after childbirth.

Infertility

When you and your partner are trying to conceive, you never expect to encounter difficulties. Yet, as much as 10% of the population experiences fertility problems; that's more than two million Americans. However, helping conception isn't as hard as it may seem. There are many things that you can do to increase your chances of becoming pregnant.

Nevertheless, for many couples, getting pregnant is easier said than done. But what is the difference between having difficulties and being infertile? Infertility is usually defined as the inability to conceive after a year of trying. If you're over 35, though, you need only try for six months without any success before fertility problems can start to be suspected.

There are numerous reasons as to why you or your partner may be infertile. Infertility affects women as much as it affects men and often the reason behind the infertility lies in both partners. Common reasons for female infertility include endometriosis and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). Male infertility can often be attributed to low sperm counts and blockages in the reproductive system. However, only proper fertility testing can determine just what is causing your troubles.

The field of reproductive technology is quickly expanding everyday. As a result, the number of medical options a couple can take advantage of is constantly growing and the effectiveness of these treatments is always improving. Recent studies have also shown many alternative fertility treatments and herbal medicines to be affective as a complimentary form of therapy. In some cases, these therapies are even helpful when used by themselves.

Having troubles conceiving can fill you with many questions. What could be causing my infertility? What can I do to increase my fertility? What infertility treatment options do I have? Who can I talk to about this? This site is dedicated to answering all these questions, plus many more.

Whether you need to know about female or male infertility, fertility tests or infertility treatments, all the answers you want can be found right here.

So that you can be prepared for when you are finally successful at conceiving, start looking into baby accessories your little one will need like baby bedding and also get ideas for many newborn baby gifts you can request from your friends.

Postpartum

Now that baby’s born, it’s time to focus on postpartum care – for you and your newborn! That means caring for yourself inside and out, including everything from getting back into shape, to confronting post-partum depression.

As a new mom, breastfeeding can be a unique experience that allows you to bond with your baby. However, it’s natural to have concerns about breastfeeding your baby, even if you’ve breastfed before. Find out about common breastfeeding complications, such as engorgement, as well as comfortable breastfeeding positions; here you’ll also find advice on breastfeeding twins, breastfeeding in public and how to pump and store your breast milk.

Postpartum depression is a common condition that affects the physical and mental well-being of new moms. Learn about common signs of postpartum depression as well as different degrees of postpartum depression, including postpartum psychosis. Here you’ll also find treatment options that can help you overcome postpartum depression.

After the birth of your baby, you’ll likely notice that your body isn’t the same as it was before pregnancy. Discover tips on healthy eating and fitness that can help you improve the look of your body after pregnancy, as well as improve your overall postpartum health. Here you’ll also find advice on dressing the postpartum body, as well as how to minimize the appearance of stretch marks and varicose veins in order to create a more beautiful you.

Baby Care

As parents, you want the best for your child, but caring for your new baby is not always easy. From soothing your newborn to common health concerns, here's where you can get information on a wide range of baby care topics.

For new and expecting parents, providing your baby with the ideal environment in his or her new home is an important part of welcoming your child into the world. Get advice on your baby's nursery which will allow you to customize your baby's new home and provide a perfect and safe setting for your newborn.

Baby care doesn't end there. As a child grows, parents are forever faced with new issues and concerns. Check out our older baby care section for parenting tips during the later months following the birth of your baby.

Considering another pregnancy? Pregnant again? As your family grows, you may be faced with some unexpected concerns. From preparing siblings for the birth of a baby to knowing what to expect, be informed and get some answers in our Pregnant Again section.

Whether you're a new parent or a baby veteran, knowing the health benefits of proper baby and child nutrition is one of the best ways to ensure a healthy start for your children. Good eating habits can be formed as soon as your child begins to eat solids, but knowing just when that time has come may not be so clear. Check out for information on your child's diet.

Your child's first meal is one of many milestones on the journey through baby development. Learn more about developmental steps such as potty training and toddler development so that you can help support your child throughout these various stages.

When it comes to baby care, parents of twins and multiples are faced with their own set of challenges. There are, however, some common ways for parents to deal with these concerns. From newborn parenting tips to raising individuals, here's what you need to know if you are a parent of twins and multiples.