Maternity Insurance - 11 Benefits Covered By Maternity Insurance

A survey revealed that around 13% of pregnant women went without medical care during those difficult months as they could not afford maternity insurance. Also, pregnancy did not form a part of many health insurance policies. Sometimes, care was available only during the second trimester or third trimester. Affordable Health Care Options therefore offers hope in the form of the "Maternity Card". This card allows slashing of costs during the prenatal and postnatal periods by up to 60%.

The name precisely means that - Affordable Health Care Options! Where Maternity Card scores over other basic health insurance programs is reduction in the amount of documents to be filled in, unlike its competitors who present the patient with a mountain of paperwork and legal jargon that is terribly confusing! And as mentioned earlier, this insurance is affordable. In truth, maternity insurance is not considered so important by plenty of health insurance programs.

Where those companies that do offer maternity insurance coverage are concerned, they provide group insurance plans. The catch is that in many of the plans, the clauses are so framed that they can take effect only three months later; sometimes, even one year later.

A plan called Medi-cal maternity insurance is meant for residents of California only. The woman should be between six to seven months pregnant, as well as prove that California has been her home for the past six months. The company takes care of prenatal expenses, as well as covers the postpartum period for 60 days. The remaining costs are covered by the woman herself (gross family income contributes 2%).

Low-income groups can turn to Medicaid for help, where a few maternity insurance benefits are available sometimes.

So I again reiterate that Maternity Card is the best option available. Pregnant women with no insurance can go for it. Even women with health insurance that does not include maternity insurance, can opt for Maternity Card. More details can be found from internet. All one has to do is fill out the information page on the site and click on submit. One will have access to lots of information about where to find good insurance.

The full maternity package provided by Maternity Card includes these services:

1. Visits to the doctor.

2. Prenatal vitamins.

3. 24-hour counseling.

4. Sonograms.

5. Laboratory work.

6. Stay in the hospital.

7. Anesthesiologist.

8. 24-Hour Nurse Hotline.

9. Checkups and tests concerning the newborn.

10. Immunizations for mother and child.

11. Prescription drugs.

Thus, the Maternity Card is so customer-friendly that the mother-to-be can stop having nightmares about the lack of maternity insurance or how she is going to manage monetarily when the baby finally arrives. There is somebody to take care of everything!

Three Things Your Pregnancy Diet Plan Should Avoid

The health of the baby inside is always related to a pregnancy diet plan. Pregnancy is perhaps the time where women should be cautious about their diet for the little one inside. The diet should have top priority because it is the only source of nourishment the baby will get.

Nine months could indeed be too long an ordeal. The mother could have a preference towards certain foods her doctor advises not to eat. For the baby, it will be a lifetime of suffering should the mother not pay attention to their doctors instructions.

When pregnant, there are three things that an expecting mother should follow to make sure that their pregnancy will run smoothly and be safe for the baby's transition from the womb to the world at large.

Avoiding Salty Foods

The salty foods are actually not directly affecting the baby but, of course, anything that will affect the mother would also influence the baby as well. Eating salty foods is the most common cause for water retention that causes swelling of the feet and ankles. This is actually observed on about 50% of pregnant women, and can usually cause a feeling of tiredness giving them the impression that it's the pregnancy that is giving them the discomfort when it fact it was the salt.

Avoiding Over the Counter (OTC) Medicine

Now, putting in medicine to the body should and always come with a doctor's go signal. Sometimes, a plain-looking OTC paracetamol tablet could be enough to cause dislodgement of the baby from its hold on the fallopian tube. This is really the tricky part of any pregnancy because the mother should at all times try their very best to stay healthy. Choose not to drink any sort of medicine, especially those OTC drugs that can be handily bought from any drugstore.

Avoiding to Many Sweets

Sweets are perhaps the hardest thing to avoid. Like salty foods, there is really nothing outwardly problematic about this as a lot of expecting moms are guilty of this. The only reason doctors would be against this is that it will make the baby grow so large and the probability of having a normal delivery would be compromised. Shying away from sweets is very much for the sake of the mother. A mothers craving for sweet foods would make them bloat and would only be felt mostly after giving birth. Sometimes, the weight will not return to pre-pregnancy weight levels without a proper pregnancy diet plan. Often times, postpartum depression is caused by the physical changes brought about by giving birth.

Needless to say, smoking and drinking alcoholic beverages should not be consumed at any time of the pregnancy period. Most of the abnormalities that have been found on unfortunate babies have been correlated to smoking and alcoholic mothers during their pregnancies.

10 Simple Guidelines for Finding Health Insurance in California

Health insurance in California is very affordable when you follow these 10 simple guidelines.

1. Compare CA health insurance quotes from at least 3 California health insurance companies. (It is amazing to see someone choose a CA health care policy without even bothering to compare the premiums and the health plan benefits with other companies similar policies!)

2. Be very skeptical about purchasing insurance from a California health insurance carrier that you have never heard of before. (That is not to say that the health plan is necessarily not a good health plan just because you haven't heard of the insurance company before but it just means that it would be prudent to research them a little bit online or speak with a knowledgeable independent CA insurance agent).

3. Be very, very, very skeptical about a California discount health plan. (Remember, discount health plans are not health insurance! Just try searching on any major search engine for discount health plan warning and you can see all of the warning flags that go up from all of the state insurance departments and other .GOV websites).

4. Enroll in your employer's group health insurance plan IF your employer is willing to foot the bill. (Even if you have a problem with your employer's group health insurance carrier it still is usually better to stay with the plan IF your employer is footing a large portion of the premium cost).

5. Get quotes for your family members for an CA individual medical plan IF you are on a group health plan and your employer will not cover the cost to add on the rest of your family to your health coverage. (Assuming that your family is healthy then California individual health plans will almost always be cheaper than a California group health plan - make sure to scrutinize the differences between the group health plans and the individual health plans that you will be comparing as many individual health plans do not cover pregnancies [maternity insurance] unless you pay an additional premium while your group health plan probably does cover maternity automatically).

6. Research the companies, policies, networks, doctors, clinics, and hospitals that are in your area of California. (The availability of a favorite doctor on a particular company's plan could be the deciding advantage for you to choose that company over another company with a similar health plan but without your favorite doctor on their network).

7. Ask questions of your health insurance agent/health insurance broker so that you fully understand the options that are available to you.

8. Change your policy. (Don't be afraid to admit that you made a mistake if the policy that you applied for was not what you thought that it was).

9. Review your health insurance needs every year. (Your health insurance needs will very likely change every couple of years and if nothing else it will give you a chance to see if your company's rates are still competitive).

10. Compare free California health insurance quotes at California Health Insurance 360!

Best Sexual Positions That Help in Getting Pregnant With Baby Boy

So you and your partner want a baby boy! The great thing is that you can pull this off! You can definitely get the baby boy that you absolutely dream about, or you can get a baby girl, there are techniques for both that both include your sexual positioning; this can be an instrumental part in playing the percentage game of determining the gender of your future child!

Best Sexual Position in Helping to Get Pregnant with a Baby Boy
Well, the best one in this situation, the best position is actually the doggy style position, or having intercourse from behind; The reason for this is simply because the penetration is deeper and it dramatically shortens the distance the y chromosome (the male chromosome), must carry;

The optimal time to have a male child is actually close to ovulation, you want to have intercourse somewhere between the method of 24 hours prior ovulation to up to 12 hours later, the Y carrying sperm actually prefers a much more alkaline environment than it's female X carrying counter part.

Also if the man decides to drink caffeine before having intercourse, this can actually boost the speed of the Y carrying chromosomes, this can be ideal when trying to influence the sex and gender of the baby.

You want to make sure that you deposit the sperm as close to the cervix as possible! This is critical in trying to determine the sex of the baby! This is best from doing the rear position.

Your Pocket Guide to Individual Health Insurance

What is it?

Individual health insurance is a type of coverage that you buy yourself, as opposed to coverage obtained through an employer or government program. It is estimated that about five percent of the population buys their own health insurance-that's more than 15 million Americans!

Who is it for?

This type of health insurance is most ideal for those who are:

-Employees of a company that does not provide health insurance benefits

-Between jobs

-Recently unemployed and find COBRA is too expensive

-Self-employed

-Recent graduates not covered under their parent's plan

What are the benefits?

The great thing about shopping for an individual health plan is the variety of plan options available to pick and choose from. With the guidance of a licensed health insurance agent, you can figure out what your needs are and how to find benefits that can meet them. Some benefits to consider are: pre-natal visits, maternity care, well-baby visits, prescription drugs, routine doctor's visits, etc. You can also decide what is more economically feasible for you: paying for a high deductible and low monthly premium or vice versa. If you recently become unemployed, an individual plan is likely cheaper than the high premium cost of continued employer coverage via COBRA.

What are the risks?

The drawback is that you pay higher premiums because you are solely responsible for your plan's premium, versus being able to share it with other employees, as with group employer coverage. Also, premiums vary from state to state because of differing state health care usage histories or certain statewide legislative requirements.

Moreover, premiums are determined by expected health care costs, so individuals who are sick, smokers, or older can expect to pay more. Individual health plans are underwritten, meaning an insurer can deny or apply exclusions/rate-ups to your policy if you have preexisting conditions.

OK, now how do you actually buy it? Buying the perfect individual health plan is a lot easier than you would think, and can be done best with the help of a licensed agent. Just enter some basic information about yourself on getinsured.com to instantly view side-by-side comparisons of plans in your zip code. Licensed agents can explain your state's law and walk you through the entire process-from shopping for plans to completing your application and receiving your policy. This service is completely free, so there's no reason why you shouldn't take advantage of it.

What impact does health care reform have on now, and in 2014?

The following changes will be implemented beginning September 2010:

-New plans must cover some preventative services without cost sharing

-Insurance companies can't drop you when you're sick, due to a mistake you made on your coverage application

-Carriers cannot impose lifetime maximums on your coverage

-New individual plans can't deny or exclude coverage to any child under age 19 due to health conditions (this includes babies born with health problems)

-If a new plan doesn't pay for services you thought were covered, you have new options to appeal the decision

Beginning in 2014, individual health plans cannot turn down individuals with a preexisting condition (including a disability).

Need Help Getting Pregnant? 4 Foods You Must Take and 3 You Must Avoid!

Getting pregnant is as easy as changing your food habits! More and more researchers all over the world are finding out the value of foods in doubling your chances of conception! There are a number of foods that can help you conceive. Are they effective? YES they are! My sister tried them out and became the proud mother of baby sons a few months back!

Which foods help getting pregnant? We'll tell you:

• 
  Soy ahoy- use it as a thickener, a preservative or as a health food-soybean in any form is good for you. They nearly double the presence of fertility hormones in your body-so use them every day!


• 
  The right carbs- carbohydrates are not always bad news. In fact, slow release carbs like nuts, dried beans and whole grains are very important foods that help getting pregnant.


• 
  The right vitamin- you CANNOT avoid the roles of vitamins in getting pregnant. The most important vitamins to look out for are vitamin B6, zinc, folic acid and vitamin C. You know what I am talking about-load up on citrus fruits, spinach and leafy vegetables!


• 
  The right beverages- even beverages can be useful when you are looking for help getting pregnant. Just switch to green tea instead of loading up on coffee and soft drinks! Green tea is full of antioxidants that can increase your fertility up to 2 times! Modern research shows that women who take tea regularly have more of a chance getting pregnant than those who don't. Surely you don't want to be left behind!

The worst foods for your pregnancy

• 
  Trans fats- they are not good for you, period! Trans fats double the risk of infertility in normal couples, so stay away from them! All the yummy snacks and soups can well possess substance lethal enough to stop you getting pregnant. Even if you increase the consumption of Trans fats by 2%, you chalk up an additional 73% chance of not conceiving at all! These should be studiously avoided when you need help getting pregnant.


• Red meat- did you know that even a single helping of beef per day can reduce your chances of getting pregnant? This is another simple everyday food that can stand in the way of you getting pregnant. Proteins from plant sources-for instance fruit, vegetables and beans provide protection against ovulatory infertility. Isn't the steak a small price to pay for your bundle of joy?


• 
  Soft drinks- these result in a sugar spike that can send your fertility haywire! So steer clear of these no good foods!

Bad diets are one of the major reasons behind unexplained fertility. I know. I made these changes to my diet a few months back and FELT the difference! Do yourself a favor and stay away from medicines, chemicals and surgical procedures. You can get pregnant in 3 months by following the diet tips above!

Rectal Bleeding During Pregnancy

Rectal bleeding during pregnancy is normally not dangerous but still it can elevate worry once first detected by mother as it can be confused with spotting. The best solution is to get you examined to rule out spotting or another serious condition.

The simplest form of anal blood loss is blood loss from a split or fissure within the anal sphincter. This form can be most times confused with spotting as the tears are generally not visible to the pregnant mother and can be further confused with spotting. Fissures sometimes happens due to the over straining caused by repeated constipation. Other most common case is the haemorrhoids caused by over straining during evacuation of stool, passing hard stool. Sometimes consistent itching through cleaning or wiping also can result in rectal blood loss.

You could yourself find whether you are dealing with rectal bleeding or not by self examining the bleeding area. Always make sure the blood is absolutely not coming from the vaginal areas. A fissure might feel as if a sharp, hurtful cut on the edge on the skin and the haemorrhoids would be a tender, lumpy swelled spot protruding from your anus. They are generally referred to as "haemorrhoids" since they resemble a group of small grapes.

Rectal blood loss is generally common in the 3 rd trimester of being pregnant and after giving birth to the child due to raised pressure on the veins of the internal pelvis during pregnancy together with delivery. Actually those women who produce by Caesarean section must be suffering from haemorrhoids throughout the pregnancy and even after carrying a child.

Some self-care things are there that can prevent you from rectal haemorrhage like:
繚 Cold compress

繚 Heating pad

繚 Ibuprofen or acetaminophen

繚 Witch hazel

繚 Over-the-counter haemorrhoid relief product

Always state any kind of odd bleeding to your doctor even if ensured that it is most certainly nothing at all to worry about. Your doctor only can make sure that there is not necessarily something other than haemorrhoids resulting in the blood loss.

The foremost side-effect connected with rectal haemorrhage in pregnancy is physical agony and pain. The most effective way to prevent or relieve the symptoms associated with rectal bleeding while being pregnant is always to maintain bowel regularity. Simple and easy solutions to do this can consist of:

繚 Take lot of water at least 10-12 glasses/day.

繚 Consume healthy, fibre-rich food such as fruits, greens and also wholemeal bread which will add roughage and ease out your bowels.

繚 Get your iron via food items and food-based dietary supplements rather than medicated ones.

繚 Cold compresses works extremely well that would sooth the pain from haemorrhoids.

繚 To aid & prevent them altogether make sure you do Kegel exercises everyday preferably early morning. These exercises help to strengthen the pelvic floor and rectal muscles. To carry out a Kegel bend your pelvic floor as if ceasing a stream of urine. Hold for many seconds and then liberate. Perform many sets during a period.

繚 Sitz bath is well accustomed concept to relieve haemorrhoids. It can be done with hot or cold water in tub and sitting there in at least for 15min. Suit the temperature as per you comfort.

繚 Genital hygiene with plain water and keeping it dry with soft toilet papers.

繚 If required your doc is going to prescribe a medicated suppository.

Quite rarely, rectal bleeding during pregnancy could be indication of a more serious condition like polyps or colon cancer. This kind of cancer only occurs in rare numbers and is also curable with a good prognosis in case detected early.

Baby Nurses - What Are They and What Are the Benefits of Hiring One?

A typical newborn/infant is awake and in need of care for several hours every night. In order for mothers to properly recuperate, and for families to ease the transition into life with their newest member, some families choose to employ a baby nurse or newborn specialist.

Traditionally, overnight nanny responsibilities have been held by women with the title of baby nurse. By today's modern standards however, this person is a Registered Nurse (RN) or Licensed Practical Nurse (LPN). Further, in some states the term "baby nurse" can only be used legally if the person practicing this profession is an actual RN or LPN. For individuals who have extensive experience in newborn care, but do not hold medical licenses, the term "newborn specialist" can be used.

A baby nurse performs all tasks related to baby's well being including feeding, diapering, and soothing the child through the night. For breastfeeding mothers, the caregiver will bring the child to mother, but will then provide all other care for baby by burping, changing and easing baby back to sleep. Baby nurses are also required to keep the child's room orderly and clean, but do not perform household duties.

During the first nights home with baby, a baby nurse benefits the entire family. Knowing that baby is in capable, nurturing hands just as s/he was in the hospital nursery, mothers get the deep restorative sleep their bodies need to recuperate from the emotional and physical demands of childbirth. For fathers and partners, who in the vast majority of homes can not take significant time off from work, baby nurses allow for proper rest before starting back in the workplace. Older siblings who may not yet understand how the new family member could affect them, also benefit. Parents can be 100% available to comfort the older children when they inevitably wake up during the night as they adjust to life with the new baby.

And for the babies themselves, professional care allows their needs to be met quickly, easily and lovingly.

Whether families opt for service a few nights a week, or a month or more, the most important thing a baby nurse provides is deep, restorative sleep. This is crucial for all parents, whether they work outside the home or are a stay at home parent. A good night's sleep allows families to enjoy and cherish their time, rather than just "get through the day."

Overcome Infertility - How to Treat Infertility With a Chinese Herb - Dodder Seed (Tu Si Zi)

As we mentioned in previous articles, infertility is defined as inability of a couple to conceive after 12 months of unprotected sexual intercourse. It effects over 5 millions couple alone in the U. S. and many times more in the world. Because of unawareness of treatments, only 10% seeks help from professional specialist. We have spent most of the time in this series discussing the conventional and Chinese medicine in treating fertility. I believe, it is the best time to change the subject by discussing how to treat infertility with Chinese herbs--dodder seed.

I. Definition
Dodder also known as tu si zi in traditional Chinese medicine, is a genus parasite plant belongings to the family Cuscutaceae. It has been used in strengthening the kidney and liver function.

II. How dodder seed effects fertility
1. Kidney yin deficiency
Kidney yin is vital to balance the kidney yang caused by prolong period of time in taking hot, spicy food as well as sexual stimulating herbs or medication. deficiency of kidney yin causes qi imbalance, resulting in lessening the chance of quality sperm production.

2. Liver
It is said that dodder seed also helps to improve liver function in fat and protein metabolism, resulting in strengthening the cells of the nervous tension, thereby reducing the symptoms of fatigue, dizziness and emotional and physical stress.

3. Spleen
Spleen is vital in regulating insulin production as well as assisting liver in carbohydrate synthesis, thus decreasing the risk of fluctuation of blood sugar, leading to symptoms of diabetes, causing thickening of the blood and effecting sperm count.

4. Water retention
It is also helps to improve the kidney function in urinary extraction, hereby decreasing the risk of water and fluid retention.

5. Blood stagnation
Beside helping to strengthen the liver in carbohydrate metabolism, it also increases blood flow to the reproductive organs, thereby, reducing the risk of blood stagnation in the abdomen and increasing the chance of fertility.

III. Side effects
There is no known side effect if not overdose.

What Is a Midwife and What Are Her Roles?

During ancient times, when a woman was about to give birth, a midwife was summoned in order to support her through labor and delivery. There were no doctors yet, and midwives dominated the labor and delivery world. This goes to show that midwifery started even during the ancient times. When people talk about midwives, and when described in books, they are usually depicted as women with capable hands, who are smart and caring. Midwifery is considered an ancient art by those who practice it, and it takes a lot of caring and at the same time experience in order to get it right.

In the ancient times, in order to become a midwife, a woman has to undergo training from a senior who is an expert in dealing with childbirth. In the recent times, women can go to school and learn the different processes of how to guide a pregnant woman during the crucial times of pregnancy, labor, and childbirth. Midwives are very important people especially when it comes to maternity health care as they have more connection with the patients.

People believe that midwifery is an ancient art that focuses on the well-being of the woman. It is a vocation that is believed to be not bound or definable by medical terms. Especially when it comes to traditional midwifery, the practices of midwives are deeply honored and revered. As a form of knowing how to connect with other women, midwives are made to learn everything about the woman's body, the anatomy, the physiology, and the different bodily functions that occur. This makes it easier for midwives to establish a bond between themselves and the women they help.

What are the differences between midwives and doctors? Doctors go to medical school in order to learn everything and are trained to do surgery. They have scientific knowledge of how things go in the woman's body. Midwives also receive training from their superiors and learn important things related to labor and childbirth but they do not go to medical school. Though they do not carry a title, they are still skilled in taking care of pregnant women, so long as there aren't complications.

So then, what is a midwife essentially? Being a midwife entails a lot of focus on the preventive aspect of care during pregnancy. Under the midwifery model of care, labor and childbirth are both considered normal events and not medical ones. Midwives need to understand how things go and what women feel and be able to connect with their patients.

An Overview Of Corporate Insurance Health Plans Online

Corporate insurance health plans are a mixed blessing for any corporation or small business. These plans provide a guarantee that the employee will be covered for medical costs and treatments. Moreover, the price that is paid is often very affordable and cheaper than individual health insurance plans. Although documentation requirements and paperwork is more complex than other types of medical insurance, the coverage that is offered and the benefits of having one remains important to a large number of employees across the country.

Eligibility

Full time employees of any corporations that reports income taxes are eligible. Full time employment is generally defined as working more than 30 hours per week. Corporate insurance health plans are available to a large number of businesses and corporations. In this article, I will be talking about some of the major types of policies which are available online.

Mandated Coverage

Corporate health insurance plans are mostly controlled by state law. As new laws are enacted every now and then, lawmakers continue to add new plans and coverage in the existing one. Although this is of benefit to the employees, this increases the cost of insurance plans. For example, services such as maternity care make a significant portion of the corporate health coverage even in an organization that is composed entirely of males. These mandated benefits reduce the ability of the employers to tailor these types of plans to their business. But, if it is looked at from a practical point of view, this is the only way employees in an organization can get financial help for maternity costs through insurance companies.

Cost

The cost of corporate health insurance depends on a number of factors. For example, is a customer is unhealthy, he will be paying a higher amount than someone who is healthy. Larger businesses pay more for coverage and smaller ones pay less. The amount that each corporation pays not only depends on the availability of benefits, but on their budget. Basically, you get what you pay for. Larger corporations are able to afford more additional coverage such as vision and dental care. As a result, they pay more premium. On the other hand, smaller corporations try to limit the coverage to only what is needed and this includes medical checkups, x-rays and so on.

There are plans available which offer coverage at a lower cost, but only after trimming some of the benefits. So it is a matter of budget that decides the cost of your insurance plan.

Finding A Provider

There are a large number of health insurance providers available and they can easily be located through the internet. One of the best ways of finding a provider is to search online with the relevant keywords including the name of your state or city. Within a matter of seconds, you will have a long list of providers displayed. But, before you make a choice, you must understand what they offer and at what price. Different providers offer different policies and you should not be tricked into buying a policy that is not suitable for your corporation.

What Is The Best Natural Nutrition For Pregnancy?

We all want to give our babies the best start in life and eating well during pregnancy will do just that. The old myth of eating for two applies more to nutrients not quantity. The trick is to know what you need, why you need it and how to make each mouthful that you do eat really count.

Water, make sure during all of the different stages listed below that you are keeping yourself hydrated with drinking enough water Aim for up to 4 pints per day of mineral water where possible. This will help you keep your skin glowing and elastic, energy levels up and all the important bowels moving!

Nutrition for PreConception

If you are trying to become pregnant there is never a better time to eat well. Imagine planting a seed, you would want it to have the best soil ever and you are the soil for your baby! If you can provide the best home for your new baby then the chances of conception will improve no end. The most important nutrient during this time is folic acid; this is needed for the correct cell division and to prevent spina bifida. Along with that you need good supplies of Vitamin C, E, Zinc, Magnesium, Vitamin B3 and B6, and omega 3 and 6 fatty acids.

First Trimester Tips

This stage is crucial to your baby's development and really the most important nutritionally. During the first trimester your baby would have developed all its major organs as well as finger nails, eyebrows and of course it's little beating heart. All of that is made from what you have eaten! Important nutrients are folic acids, B vitamins as well as essential omega oils and zinc. Your body will also need plenty of iron as blood volume increases and the placenta is made.

If you feel sick during this stage make sure you are taking enough vitamin B6, this can really help to relieve sickness. Drinking enough water, taking regular exercise and eating small frequent meals will help too!

Second Trimester Tips

Your baby has already been formed and what it needs now is to grow! This trimester is when the organs start to mature and the bones and teeth start to harden needing calcium, magnesium and vitamin D. Along with these Vitamin A, C, E, Zinc and essential omega oils will continue to nourish the skin (stretch marks), baby and body.

Third Trimester Tips

This is the time that the baby begins to lay down fat stores. Vitamin C is needed for gums, teeth, bones and blood vessels and of course calcium remains necessary for bones too. Can you believe that your baby can hear you now! Baby's brain is growing faster and faster so essential omega oils remain crucial (in fact they always are!).

Eating small regular meals during this time last trimester. You really won't fancy large meals as there isn't room, but regular highly nutritional meals will help you feel energised, healthy and no heavier than you already feel!

Taking some Magnesium Citrate is good for the muscles to contract during labour and it is worth keeping zinc high to help with all the healing that is needed after the birth. Vitamin K is good for blood clotting, and to prevent haemorrhaging.

Post Natal Tips

Repair, need of energy and of course breastfeeding are all important reasons to keep eating well. If you are breastfeeding you still need nutrients for two and lots and lots of water. Vitamin A, C and E and Zinc are particularly important to repair the damaged tissue as is an amino acid called glutamine. Calcium, magnesium, iron and B vitamins will all have been depleted during the birth so getting these replenished and balanced again is very important and will help you to feel better.

Small frequent meals are often the way to go during this stage too as time is of the essence when there is a new baby in the house! Ask visitors to bring a nutritious meal with them when they visit and ask them to wash up and hoover maybe as well!

Why Zinc?

Zinc is an essential trace element and is very important during pregnancy and the post natal period. Unfortunately a lot of zinc is lost during the refining of foods so a supplement more than likely going to be needed.

Zinc is needed for the breakdown of carbohydrates. It is also involved in every area of reproduction and has been known as the most important trace element for any pregnant woman!

Zinc is required for fertility in both the male and female. It is also necessary for the proper formation of elastin chains in connective tissue so vital for the growth of both belly and boobs! It helps the uterus to contract efficiently and the perineum to stretch.

Adequate zinc levels are required for foetal growth and zinc can help prevent premature births, toxaemia and post natal depression. It's worth noting here that positive maternal instinct can depend to some extent on good nutrition. If your body is out of sorts then so will your mind and instinct be.

If you are deficient when breastfeeding then so will your baby be! Babies with low zinc levels are more likely to be restless and cry which won't help your mood if you are struggling! That in itself makes a zinc supplement worthwhile.

Breastfeeding

Drink water! You will be losing around a pint a day of fluid so you need to replace this! 2 litres per day minimum is needed! Trust me, when you start feeding you'll be grabbing water to drink. Always try and have glasses or bottles dotted around the house at your feeding points so you can drink all the time. It's vital to form milk and of course to give you energy. Keep some good books around the house too at feeding points as you'll be feeding for a while at the beginning!

As well as water and zinc make sure you are getting enough essential oils in your diet. These are still needed for brain development and of course for luscious skin.

Avoid empty calories and remember that whatever you eat so does your baby! Avoid caffeine, alcohol, curries and highly gaseous foods such as garlic, onions and cabbage. Lots of brown rice and vegetables, oily fish (avoid shellfish) and whole foods are a fabulous way to give your baby all it needs.

Is a Vegetarian Diet ok?

No worries here to still get all you need!

Iron stores can stay up with lots of green vegetables, sunflower seeds, peanuts and dried fruits. Molasses, almonds and parsley are also fabulous ways!

As for Vitamin D... walk outside daily!

If you are vegan you may have to get B12 from a supplement; fortified soya milk or yeast extracts.

Nuts and seeds carry essential fats that you both need.

GOOD NATURAL FOOD SOURCES

Carbohydrates whole grains, e.g. rice! Potatoes, beans, pulses, cereals, oats, pasta, dark leafy vegetables, root vegetables, fresh fruit

Protein eggs, tofu, quinoa, tahini, bean sprouts, organic meat, cheese

Essential fats Flax oil (linseed), hemp seed, avocado, green leafy vegetables, soybeans, walnuts, sunflowers seeds, sesame seeds (tahini), almonds, oily fish

Vitamin A carrots, sweet potato, squash, watercress, mango, melon, cabbage, dried apricots

B Vitamins green leafy vegetables, banana, avocado, nuts, watercress, squash, courgette, cabbage, broccoli, fish (sardines, mackerel), mushrooms

Folic Acid spinach, broccoli, peanuts, sprouts, asparagus, sesame seeds, wheat germ

Vitamin C broccoli, green peppers, parsley, oranges, watercress, kiwi, lemon

Vitamin E olive oil, pepper, tahini, nuts & seeds, avocado, sunflower seeds

Vitamin K Brussel sprouts, seaweeds, blackstrap molasses, lentils, peas, cauliflower, beans, peas

Choline lecithin, sardines, anchovies, eggs, soya, peanuts

Chromium brewers yeast, wholemeal bread, rye bread

Iron tofu, beans & pulses, cabbage, watercress, prunes & dates, dried apricots, blackstrap molasses, pumpkin seeds, parsley, almonds

Magnesium green leafy vegetables, soya beans, cashew nuts, almonds, banana, prunes, broccoli, Wheatgerm, brewers yeast, buckwheat flour, brazils

Selenium Molasses, herrings

Zinc wholegrain rice, lentils, pumpkin seeds, almonds, tofu, ginger root, pecans, and split peas

Most importantly, be happy!

Pregnancy Health - What You Need to Consider About Salt

It's astonishing to hear all the talk about the importance of salt during pregnancy with no mention of the fact that not all sources of sodium, or salt, are the same. This is a key consideration for pregnancy health.As far as the body is concerned, there's no connection between the chemically cleansed sodium chloride table salt you buy at the supermarket, contained in virtually every processed food you buy, and the mineral rich organic sea salt available over the Internet or your local health food store. These minerals are needed more than ever for pregnancy health.

Standard table salt is highly refined, chemically cleansed, and unfriendly to the body. Unrefined sea salt is a naturally occurring complex of sodium chloride, which includes major minerals such as calcium, magnesium, potassium and a host of around 80 essential trace minerals. These are instrumental for pregnancy health.

Although the benefits of consuming these trace minerals are too numerous to list here, the nutrients and minerals found in sea salt help your body preserve blood cells, a major advantage towards insuring pregnancy health.

On your next visit to the market, take a look at the nutritional content on a container of the table salt you typically buy. Now compare that with the label found on a package of unrefined, unprocessed sea salt. One can destroy your health, while the other heals you. Those trace minerals found in unprocessed sea salt are essential for life, and for pregnancy health.

These essential minerals are stripped during the processing used to create the table salt we typically consume in our diets. In fact, potassium iodide has to be added back in to prevent goiter, a thyroid gland problem caused by lack of iodine. The differences are noteworthy for any mother concerned with pregnancy health.

Keep in mind that not all packages labeled "sea salt" are created equal. Look beyond the words "sea salt" on the label for a mineral analysis. Also, look for details assuring it has not been heated nor had chemicals added. Real sea salt is rarely pure white in color. Different coloring, depending on where the salts are harvested from, bode well and are an indication of the salts mineral content. These trace minerals will serve as good insurance towards pregnancy health.

Medical Insurance Rate

Have you seen a recent increase in your medical insurance rate? Medical insurance rate increases are under close scrutiny as health reform blossoms. The medical insurance rates are being examined closely by the department of health and human services. The DHHS has revealed the fact that health insurance companies have sought drastic premium rate increases in the past year. Legislation has been introduced in 2010 that would prevent health insurance providers from assessing unfair premium rate increases.

Under the Legislation, the U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services would be able to review, deny or approve rate increases that are deemed unreasonable. The Health Insurance Rate Authority Act was introduced in part to protect the consumer from premium increases that are not justified by the insurer. Unfortunately, this does not mean that there will not be premium increases. Alternatively, the act would insure that those increases that are assessed would need justification.

Health care reform has been a hot topic since the days prior to the presidential election. One of President Obama's top priorities has been health care reform and much has blossomed as a result. The Health Insurance Rate Authority Act is likely one of many acts to come in order to protect the consumer and regulate insurance premium hikes. Authorities state that there is likely a need for some premium increases due to health care reform mandates. Reform mandates such as policies covering maternity care, substance abuse, mental health and mandates against exclusions due to pre-existing conditions will cause insurers to take risk that they have not traditionally had to take. The additional risk will result in insurers contributing more dollars to the health pool than they have in the past. Ultimately, the affect on the bottom line for insurers result in premium increases for the consumer.

It is important to remember that there are several factors that contribute to an individual's premium and that certain features may be tweaked in order to realize a lower premium. Though we have seen an overall hike in premiums, an individual still has some control over the monthly premium that he or she pays. For instance, deductibles, co-pays, Coinsurance percentages, amount of coinsurance out of pocket and lifetime maximum coverage by the insurer all combine to determine the amount of monthly medical insurance rates. The insurance seeker could adjust any one of these factors and see a change in their monthly premium. However, in the near future the consumer may still see increased overall premiums for certain policies. Illinois, California and Colorado have already seen drastic premium increases by certain insurers. The Health Insurance Rate Authority Act would give the secretary of health and Human Services the power to deny or adjust rate increases that are found to be unjustifiable.

Affordable health insurance has been made a priority by the current administration. Although the health reform legislation is now a reality, many of the elements of the legislation will not be realized for years to come. The Health Insurance Rate Authority Act is just one step towards protecting the consumer and maintaining the "affordable" health insurance initiative. For more information regarding affordable health insurance and medical insurance rates, see the Texas Low Cost Health Insurance website.

Can Pregnant Women Obtain Health Insurance?

Pregnancy is indeed the most important stage in the life of every woman. The health of "New mothers" and babies must be well taken care of during this period in order to deliver healthy babies. In fact, it is necessary for a family to save sufficient fund as there are a lot of costs incurred before a baby is born. The best way is to obtain health coverage from insurance companies or insurance providers during the whole period of pregnancy.

In normal circumstances, most of the standard health coverage policies in the market do not cover pregnancy. Can a pregnant woman be covered by the medical insurance?

The answer is YES. The good news is you can purchase pregnancy health insurance when you are in the planning stage for pregnancy. You can even purchase it when you are already expecting. There are many insurance companies providing this customized package to suit the needs of the expectant mothers. This is because many mothers are worrying about the medical expenses for pregnancy and childbirth.

It will be most ideal if you could obtain the maternity insurance before you are pregnant. The premium for the policy is relatively lower compared with the premium of pregnant policy holders. Most of the insurance providers in the market consider pregnancy as a pre-existing condition and they normally require the applicants to pay a higher premium for the maternity coverage. However, it is still worthwhile to get the pregnancy health insurance as long as the premium can be afforded by you. It is a wise decision for you and your family to enjoy the financial protection while waiting for the newborn baby.

Childbirth involves risks and there are a lot of costs incurred too, such as fees for regular check ups, obstetrician's consultation service, ultrasound, healthcare products, delivery costs, hospital admission, surgical fee, etc. With the help of maternity health insurance, all the families can enjoy their exciting moment without any financial burden and worries.

Having Trouble Sleeping Because of Pregnancy? A Body Pillow Can Help, Seriously

Pregnant women often have trouble sleeping in the later stages of pregnancy because of the physical realities of pregnancy. You might get leg cramps or Restless Leg Syndrome or you might have trouble sleeping on your back or moving from side to side.

One way that you can deal with sleeplessness caused by physical problems related to pregnancy is to use a body pillow.

Body pillows are great for pregnant women because they support your body and give you the extra firmness that you need to be more comfortable. Plus, since body pillows are nice and long, you can wrap your arms and legs around the body pillow or use it between your knees to help stop leg cramps.

Body pillows also provide extra back support which is critically important when you are pregnant. The bigger the baby and you get the harder your back needs to work to compensate. Back pain in both the lower and upper back is one of the most common complaints among pregnant women.

As a mother of two, I can absolutely vouch for this fact.

Getting enough sleep can be a big problem during pregnancy because you need a lot more sleep so that your body can deal with the changes that pregnancy causes. Women that do not get enough sleep during pregnancy might have unnecessary complications during the birth. Not getting enough rest during pregnancy can also cause problems later on for both the mother and baby.

Body pillows come in hundreds of styles and sizes. Some are made specifically for pregnant women and have more support than traditional body pillows. Body pillows that are made specifically for pregnancy can also be used after pregnancy to help you position yourself and the baby properly for bottle or breast feeding.

Doctors often recommend body pillows that are made for pregnant women because they are so flexible and can be used in so many ways. Every woman will experience different types of discomfort during pregnancy but a high quality body pillow can help soothe almost any type of ache, strain, or discomfort so that you can sleep more soundly.

Did You Know That Omega 3 Brain Supplements Can Treat Mental Disorders?

Are you concerned about preventing signs of ADHD or ADD in your children? Are you suffering from depression or bipolar I or II? Do you find yourself suffering from memory lapses? If this sounds like you, an omega 3 brain treatment may be just what you need.

Many are aware of the physical benefits of omega 3 fatty acids. This amazing substance is crucial for maintaining good cardiovascular health, a sound immune system, and is even beneficial in treating many kinds of pain.

However, when it comes to treating mental illnesses and emotional disorders, omega 3 brain supplements are incredibly useful in a variety of ways.

This is primarily because out of all of the fatty acids that exist in brain matter, omega 3 fats take up 40%.

Studies show that pregnant women who consumed high amounts of fresh, pure omega 3 fish oil during their pregnancies had children who were at significantly less risk for ADHD and ADD than women who did not take omega 3 supplements.

Omega 3 treatments have also been used in children suffering from ADHD and behavioral problems with relative success. Reports showed that they were able to concentrate longer, retain information better, and focus easier.

Incidentally, omega 3 fatty acids have also been known to lessen the symptoms of postnatal depression as well.

Its tendency to significantly improve brain function makes omega 3 fatty acids ideal for treating memory problems in elderly patients as well. Tests reveal that Alzheimer's patients who took omega 3 fish oil capsules had improvements in their long and short term memories.

Omega 3 brain treatments have also been used on stroke victims. It is useful in a variety of ways in this regard: its blood thinning capabilities prevent future blood clots, while its tendency to help create stronger, healthier brain cells and nerve activity help enormously in helping them regain lost physical abilities and even help with memory problems.

If you are suffering from depression, mood swings, anxiety, or other disorders, omega 3 can help you in this regard as well. Chronic sufferers of pain or illness often have intense feelings of nervousness, sadness, and hopelessness.

Omega 3 fatty acids help in that they give your body's immune system an extra boost. Even if you're not suffering from a physical illness, your mood will lighten once you discover how much better your body feels.
Having a high amount of omega 3 fatty acids also helps stabilize brain chemistry, which is useful in treating depression and bipolar I and II.

It's important to remember that your brain is an organ, and it can get sick just as any part of your body. Don't put off taking care of your mental health. Try omega 3 fish oil capsules today and enjoy the novelty of thinking clearer, feeling happier, and enjoying life.

7 Remedies to Get Pregnant Fast - Highlights About Homeopathic Cure to Conceive a Baby Faster

Have you been planning to get pregnant for more than 6 months without any success? Are you starting to get worried about it? Well, take it easy! There are many factors (biological, physiological, psychological, environmental etc...) that are involved to having troubles conceiving a baby. But fortunately, there are solutions too! One of them consists to follow a homeopathic treatment. Why is the principle of this soft medicine? Which are the seven most effective homeopathic remedies to get pregnant faster? Can homeopathy work for you?

Homeopathy Principle

Homeopathy is a natural medicine that takes patient's body, mind and spirit into consideration. Its main rule is based on the following Latin law: "Similia Similibus Curantur" which means 'like cures like'. For example, the very substance able to produce symptoms of sickness in a healthy person will be the right remedy for a patient who is suffering from the similar symptoms. It is something like to introduce an inoffensive disease into the patient's body (which will cause the same symptoms in a healthy person) in order to cancel the present health problem out! The idea is to match the symptoms of sickness with the suitable homeopathic remedy.

Seven Remedies to Get Pregnant Faster

1) Ovanirium - 7 C
2) Folliculinum - 7 C
3) Progesteronum - 7 C
4) Luteostimuline
5) Lycopodium - 9C
6) Gelsenium - 9C
7) Calcarea - 30C (for your mate; it helps to increase sperm count.)
 
Important Information
 
If you make up your mind to try this soft and safe therapy, it would be better to consult first a practitioner of homeopathy. Please, don't take homeopathic remedies which have not been prescribed by a competent doctor!
 
Can Homeopathy Work for You?
 
I don't really want to stir up controversy about the problem of homeopathy's reliance. But you need to understand that this therapy has been the subject of many studies in order to clarify whether it is reliable or not. As the result, any study has been able to prove the effectiveness of its remedies. Some people say that homeopathy remedies are no more effective than placebos. Others say it works very well in their case, whether it is psychological or not.
 
Is there a reliable plan to get pregnant fast?

To tell the truth, any plan or method can work 100%! As we have mentioned before, there are so many factors that are involved to having problems getting pregnant fast. But, some plans are more effective than the others because they take a large range of factors in consideration to treat the root cause of the problem. It is the case of Michellle's plan.

Michelle saw a lot of specialists and none of them had been able to help her to get pregnant. She thought she'd never have a baby. Fortunately, Michelle finally gave birth to a beautiful son following a plan that worked within 4 short months. Feel free to read Michelle' story in her Get Pregnant Fast review!  

Lifestyle Changes to Ensure a Healthy Pregnancy

When you are pregnant, there are many healthy choices that you need to make so that you and your baby can stay healthy. This might mean making changes in your diet or taking more vitamins - whatever the alterations are, you need to be sure that they will have a beneficial as opposed to harmful effect on you and your baby's health.

Food and Drink

Needless to say, alcohol is something you should be avoiding during your pregnancy. Multiple studies have shown the many serious and harmful effects that alcohol can have on your baby's development.

A healthy, balanced diet is good for your pregnant body - and don't believe the myth that you're eating for two. An extra 300 calories can be added to your diet but that is generally only during the last month of your pregnancy!

You will need protein, plenty of fruit and veg, carbs, fat and dairy - make sure you get a good balance of food so that your body has the fuel it needs to sustain your health.

Lifestyle Choices

Smoking causes many birth complications and health problems for your baby, so quit straight away. There are a few random things that might not affect you such as avoiding sheep during the lambing season (strange but true), but you must also avoid using a sauna or hot tub as overheating can be harmful, avoid using solvent paint if decorating, and don't go on sun beds as your skin is more sensitive during pregnancy.

Illness Prevention

Take your vitamins - this will keep your immune system strong and make it less likely that you will get ill during your pregnancy. Folic acid and iron are just two of the vitamins that every pregnant woman needs to stay strong and healthy, but if you are not getting enough of these through diet alone, then ask your doctor if it is safe to take supplements.

Travelling When Pregnant

Many airlines won't allow you to travel if you are over 36 weeks pregnant. However, some women like to avoid air travel altogether just for peace of mind.

Deep vein thrombosis or blood clots can be common on long haul flights, so try to keep your legs moving around, even if you don't leave your chair. Travel in terms of driving or walking is fine - walking can keep you fit without overexertion and driving is allowed right up to your due date!

The Adrenal Glands and Your Mental Health

Hormones are major links in the mind body connection. They are chemical the chemical messengers that can turn on and off a variety of genes in every cell in your body-including your brain! All known hormonal imbalances may manifest as psychiatric disorders, such as depression, mania, anxiety, ADD, memory disturbances, dementia and even psychosis. On the other hand, bearing the burden of any of these disorders, over time, will affect your hormonal function as well. Hormonal imbalances also mimic the side effects of anti-depressants by causing weight gain, brain fog, sexual problems, and depleted energy levels. It is clear then, that hormonal problems go hand-in-hand with depression, and sorting out "hormone triggered" depression from clinical depression is not always easy. Most patients have a mixture of the two. For this reason, in the practice of Whole Psychiatry, a detailed assessment of the hormonal systems should be a routine part of every psychiatric evaluation.

A hormone called cortisol (made by your adrenal gland) is part of the body's shock absorber system. We all drive down the road of life. and we hit real or imagined pot holes. If our shock absorbers are functioning well, its like we are driving a Cadillac. We feel the pothole, but only briefly and then we make a quick recovery. If we have poor shock absorbers, we feel like we are driving an old pick-up truck over a dirt road. We hit a pot hole, are stunned by it, and may even veer off the road.

What determines how our shock absorbers work? Some of it is genetic, and some of it is set by the time we are 11 or 12 weeks of age! In addition, chronic stress, nutritional and chemical factors, social environments, attitudes, perceived sense of control, spiritual orientation, and interpretation of the meaning of events play an important role.

Your body's glands take their cues from your brain. When an event is perceived, a meaning is assigned to the event, and a hormonal response appropriate to the assigned meaning occurs. Thus your brain determines the exact timing and amount of cortisol that is released into your blood stream: too much cortisol at night, and you can't fall sleep, too little cortisol in the morning, and you can barely peel yourself out of bed!

By the same token, your brain then gets a message from your adrenal glands via the cortisol in your blood stream, which provides a status update on hormone production and release. The constant relay of information between your brain and your adrenal glands keeps your brain, immune system and stress response functioning normally.

But this system's equilibrium can be upset when you take a blow from, say, depression, manic depression, anxiety, chronic stress (such as a divorce or chronic illness), chronic pain, or recurrent bouts of low blood sugar. In fact any of a number of hormonal imbalances (e.g., adrenal, thyroid, reproductive hormones) are one of the major reasons that many anti-depressant treatments don't work, or why patients with bipolar disorder are not stabilized.

In summary, if you have a mood disorder, check into your hormonal status, looking at adrenal function, thyroid function (check a TSH, free T3, free T4, reverse T3, body temperature), blood sugar regulation, reproductive hormones, and melatonin.

Give the wide variety and effect of pesticides and hormone interrupters in our world, I strongly advocate for organically grown foods. Aside from the superior nutritional content, and health benefits seen in experimental animals, there is growing concern that the chemicals we accept in our environment cause significant hormonal problems in the population at large, by mimicking or blocking the functions of our own hormonal systems.

Fertility Vitamins - Do They Work?

Fertility vitamins should always be part of your pregnancy preparation list. Start preparing your body and mind for the demands of pregnancy. Stop any bad habits that may endanger your baby. Start taking fertility vitamins four months before trying to conceive. The earlier you optimize your nutrient intake, the significantly you minimize the risks of birth defects. Preparing a healthy meal everyday can be a challenge, but think about the good it can do for you and your baby. If you are just too busy, taking prenatal vitamins can provide a safety net of the nutrients it needs.

Fertility vitamins beneficial for preconception include:

Folic Acid

Folic acid is essential for proper cell division and development of the fetus. Studies have shown women who take supplements with folic acid prior to conception have significantly lower risks of giving birth to babies with severe heart problems, neural tube problems and low birth weights. These women are also less likely to deliver a baby prematurely. Other researches have shown almost 50% of all neural tube problems in babies can be avoided by taking folic acid supplements during the early stages of pregnancy.

Zinc

Zinc is another mineral you should take prior to conception. Studies have shown women with high levels of Zinc had lower risks of delivering neurally defective babies. The risk was reduced to as low as 35%! Zinc is essential for fetal development, fetal immunity and health.

Iron

Start taking Iron supplements four months before trying to conceive and throughout the pregnancy. Iron helps in transporting oxygen throughout the body. It can also help regulate cell growth and development. Iron is essential for the development of the fetus and the placenta. Deficiency in iron can lead to anemia. Remember when you get pregnant, your blood volume will increase by 50%. You will need more Iron than usual. Keep a healthy supply of Iron to prevent you and your baby from developing anemia.

Choline

Choline is a vital nutrient for the development of the fetus. Women with high levels of choline in their body starting three months prior to conception have significantly lower risks of delivering a neurally defective baby.

Vitamin C (Ascorbic Acid)

Vitamin C or ascorbic acid helps in tissue repair, bone growth, bone repair, wound healing and healthy skin. It helps your body fight diseases. It can also act as an antioxidant, protecting your cells from free radical damage.

Vitamin C is essential for collagen production. Collagen is a structural protein you can find in cartilage, skin, tendons and bones. Vitamin C can also help your body absorb Iron. If you are pregnant, you need adequate supply of vitamin C to support your immune system, strengthen the capillary wall and strong placenta.

Fertility vitamins are important for prenatal care. But, you should not rely on supplements alone. You should remember to have healthy meals everyday and only take vitamins to boost your healthy diet and nutrient intake. A healthy diet is mainly composed of organic, green, leafy vegetables, nuts and seeds and fresh fruits and whole grains. Also, don't forget to exercise regularly and keep a positive outlook in life. Preparing for pregnancy will put your mind at ease as well as prepare your body for a healthy and joyful pregnancy. Healthy pregnancy not only lead to a healthy baby but also to an easier birth and lower risk of postpartum depression and other complications. Many women worry about excess weight post pregnancy. One of the easiest ways to lose baby weight is to breastfeed. In order to breastfeed you need adequate nutrient supply during pregnancy. Being adequately prepared for pregnancy will reward you many times over.

Caring For Your Hair While You're Pregnant

There will be times during your pregnancy when looking your best becomes a lower priority than normal. This is especially true as you enter the third trimester. Your body may start to feel unwieldy and cumbersome; your balance will be less the perfect; your energy levels may flirt with new lows. Given this, healthy-looking hair can do wonders for your mood.

Moms-to-be can expect to see dramatic changes in their hair while pregnant. Unfortunately, the hormonal changes taking place inside your body make these changes slightly unpredictable. In this article, we'll explain why pregnancy influences the appearance and texture of your hair. You'll also learn whether using chemicals for coloring and perms is safe for you and your baby. Lastly, we'll describe what you can expect from your hair after welcoming your little one into the world.

What's Behind The Changes?

Estrogen is the main culprit. While you're expecting, this hormone helps to regulate your body. But its levels can fluctuate, which is the reason your hair begins to change.

Typically, every strand of hair on your head goes through a predictable growth cycle. The strand will grow approximately one-half inch each month for a few years. Following this period, it stops growing (or, does so very slowly) for a few months before falling out. Once the strand falls out, a new strand takes its place within the follicle.

Most women see two changes in their hair during their pregnancy. First, it grows thicker than normal. This is likely due to a spike in estrogen, which results in each strand growing faster and lasting longer (i.e. falling out less frequently). Second, hair becomes either oily or dry. This, too, is due to an increase in estrogen, which causes the oil glands on your head to produce oil more quickly or slowly than normal.

For many moms-to-be, this change in their hair's appearance and texture can be startling. Some venture to the salon to explore their options.

Are Chemicals (Colors And Perms) Safe During Pregnancy?

The general rule is that pregnant women should avoid any type of chemicals during the first three months. It is during this period that doctors believe unborn babies are most susceptible to side effects.

A lot of expecting women opt to use temporary solutions as an alternative to chemicals for coloring their hair (henna is a popular choice). Keep in mind similar chemicals may potentially be found in these solutions. The safest route is to simply eschew colors until your second trimester.

Receiving a perm following your first trimester can produce unpredictable results. For example, if your hair is especially dry because your oil glands are producing less oil, you may experience breakage or frizziness. Ask the salon if you can do a test on an isolated lock of your hair prior to having a full perm done. That will give you a good idea regarding what to expect from the chemicals.

Your Hair After Childbirth

After you give birth to your baby, you might experience significant hair loss. Even though this is common for new mothers, watching clumps fall out can be shocking. The reason, again, can be traced to estrogen; instead of levels rising, they're falling. Fortunately, the effect is temporary and usually passes after a few months.

During your pregnancy and following childbirth, you can help preserve your hair's health by watching your diet and hormone levels. Also, if your hair is excessively dry, consider shampooing it once every two days rather than daily. Treat it with care when it's wet since this is when breakage is most likely to occur.

The takeaway is this: your hair is going to change while you're pregnant. The nature of these changes is anyone's guess. With a little extra care and attention, you can help your hair retain its original health and luster.

Infertility and IVF in New Jersey - Know Your Insurance Law

New Jersey is one of only fifteen states with an infertility insurance mandate. If you work for an employer headquartered in the state of NJ, you may be one of the lucky few whose health insurance will cover some of your infertility treatments. Beware the New Jersey Family Building Act does not apply equally to all NJ citizens. Understand how the law works, and how it applies to your insurance plan before beginning your infertility treatments.

NJ Family Building Act

The New Jersey Family Building Act is one of fifteen state laws mandating some form of infertility treatment coverage for people who work for employer groups subject to the regulation. The key to unlocking how this law applies to you is to understand who is subject to the regulation, what it covers, where the holes lie, and how to fill the gaps.

Where are the Holes?

The New Jersey law applies to employer groups of fifty employees or more, for employer groups headquartered in the state. If you work for an employer with less than fifty employees, or for a branch location that happens to be in NJ but headquartered elsewhere, then you may be out of luck. Also, employers who self insure are not subject to the mandate. Many larger employers take the self insure route, and are therefore not subject to the mandate either.

The NJ law is unique in that is specifically describes a variety of infertility treatments that must be covered. But don't assume that there is no limit to the coverage. Infertility treatments don't come with guarantees of success. Most insurance plans will cap the number of cycles you can try in your lifetime.

How to Fill the Gaps

Remember that your unreimbursed infertility medical expenses may be tax deductible and you may get a bigger tax benefit by using your flexible spending account. Also, supplemental insurance is a great way to create maternity leave income, and provide extra protection in case of complications.

Pregnancy Tests - How To Determine Pregnancy Correctly

Pregnancy would give you that bloated feeling, the sore and tender breasts, touch of nausea. Most of all, the absence of monthly periods would speak it up. In this case, pregnancy is the foremost thing coming to one's mind. Quite many methods would determine if the baby would appear in a few months time. One could always take a pregnancy test online, a home test or take an appointment with a doctor. Despite of various results from home and online tests; if positive, an appointment with your physician would confirm the results to get you started on healthy pregnancy.

Every woman who has children or have a suspicion that they are pregnant, perhaps use the home pregnancy test. Quite many jokes have been made about regarding peeing upon sticks at baby showers. Home tests are done by placing sticks in the urine stream or in containers holding urine. After minutes, results are visible on the test screens. Appearance of the line suggests positive pregnancy result. When there is no line, the possibility of pregnancy is very low. Such tests work by detecting the lack or presence of HCG, which is one common hormone mainly found in pregnancy.

Various websites give and show methods for pregnancy-curious women to find if they are pregnant and the possibilities of being pregnant. Apparently, with no physical proofs to carry on with, no online test for pregnancy would be fool-proof. Every online pregnancy test would start with questions like the last period date, physical changes or appearance of any symptoms. The software would then check the possibility of being pregnant. These tests are designed for instructing the user if they really need to take a home test or contact their doctor. A web search would yield large number of tests online with options to choose from.

An up-to-date and an accurate test is that which is physically performed by a doctor. They would do an examination similar to a home test with an addition to having a pelvis exam done. Few internal signals such as changes in cervix would assist the medical professionals about existence of pregnancy. It also becomes good time to get medical advice related to nutrition and care towards healthy pregnancy. Often, many women are aware of their pregnancy and a doctor's visit is merely for confirmation.

It would really not make a difference on what pregnancy test you choose. However ensure to take good medical care and gain better knowledge about your pregnant condition so that your bundle of joy comes in safe and sound.

Comfort Measures For Infant Reflux, Part I

Infant reflux seems to be affecting one out of every three babies these days. Most parents who have a baby with reflux are completely exhausted and at their wits end. There is very little information available online about how to comfort a baby who is suffering with the pain of reflux. I would like to share with you some concrete strategies that can make life easier and lessen the pain your baby is feeling.

繚 Modifying babies bed so that they are sleeping at a 35 to 40 degree angle. The simple way we do this is by placing a firm relatively plump pillow under the mattress of your baby bed. This is usually not quite enough of an angle so I also recommend purchasing the Tempurpedic side sleeping pillow and placing it under the crib sheet. The queen size pillow fits most cribs. This angle will sometimes cause baby to slide downwards so you will need to place a boppy pillow in a reverse u shape around their bottom to keep them from sliding. Putting baby to sleep at an incline like this will help keep them from refluxing so severely by using gravity to keep stomach contents down. Think about how uncomfortable it is for you to lay down flat with a full stomach. It is the same for your baby.

繚 Swaddling baby tightly for sleep. This is a wonderful calming tool for babies under five months of age. Babies have a startle reflex which causes them to flail their hands and wake themselves up frequently. If you do not know how to swaddle your baby, or it is difficult for you, try using the Miracle Blanket swaddle or the kidopotamous swaddleme blankets. To understand why this is such an effective tool for calming your baby watch the Happiest Baby On The Block DVD by Dr. Harvey Karp.

繚 A sound machine or baby white noise CD from iTunes. Your baby has an underdeveloped nervous system which is easily over stimulated. Baby was used to a very loud white noise while in the womb. This white noise helps baby to block out stimulation and calm down.

繚 The swing can be a reflux babies best friend. Be sure to purchase a cradle type swing such as the Fisher Price Little Lamb. The cradle type swing will prevent very young babies from having their heads thrown too far forward. It can be adjust to the more upright position when they are older. The motion of the swing on its highest speed will remind baby of being in the womb where there was constant movement. The combination of the movement and the white noise is incredibly powerful in calming a baby who is in pain. Save the swing for times when your baby is really suffering and unable to sleep in the bed. They can easily decide the swing is the only place they want to sleep. Try to use it as a tool when they are extremely fussy, not their everyday sleeping place.

Part I of this series covers your babies environment and the ways that you can create a womb cocoon for your crying baby. Part II of this series will address feeding your reflux baby. Strategies and tips for making feeding easier and managing the amount of refluxing your baby does after feeding.

Important Breastfeeding Tool for Your Newborn

Many newborn babies are what we call lazy nursers. They have a weak suck or fall asleep at the breast rather than actively nursing for a full feeding. This is especially true of preemies and babies who weigh less than 7 lbs at birth. Worried new parents often decide to give a bottle because of concern about slow weight gain or fear that baby is not getting enough. Unfortunately traditional bottles can often make the problem worse and sabotage successful breastfeeding.

Many new breastfeeding moms find themselves using a bottle for one reason or another. It can be a great way to let mom get some sleep while your partner has some bonding time with the baby. The only problem is that bottles function in an entirely different way than the breast. Baby only has to give a few small sucks and milk flows freely so that all baby has to do is swallow. The position and action of babies tongue is also completely different with the bottle than the breast. This can cause some confusion for baby and can ultimately lead to baby rejecting the breast or milk supply problems due to an improper latch and sucking technique.

I frequently recommend to my breastfeeding clients that they use Medela Haberman Feeders for the first four weeks of breastfeeding. These bottles are actually made for babies that have a cleft palate. It has a longer teat type nipple with a slit-valve in the mouthpiece that opens only when baby sucks. The flow of milk is determined by babies sucking and position of the teat in baby's mouth just like when your baby is breastfeeding. There is absolutely no back flow in these bottle so no air for baby to swallow. These are a little pricey but I believe worth it for moms who are serious about breastfeeding, have babies with a weak suck or babies with reflux. They also make a mini size one for premature babies. Feedings with the Haberman Feeder will take longer than with a traditional bottle because baby has to actively suck for milk to be released.

I have also used the Haberman Feeder bottle to transition babies who have developed nipple confusion back to successful breast feeding. The action of the nipple on this special feeder most closely mimics the action of breastfeeding. You can purchase these bottles online. You may also be able to find them at your local lactation center.

Getting Back Into Shape After Giving Birth - A Woman's Odyssey

Congratulations on your new baby! Now that you have figured out diapers and breast-feeding and your energy is coming back, you are probably looking at your body and thinking, what happened? How do I get my body back? Are you wondering how to lose the baby weight instantly like Katie Holmes and Heidi Klum? Are you starting to get the baby blues? Thinking about a crash diet as a solution? Hang on for a moment before you do anything radical that requires a full time staff and thousands of dollars. You can get fit sensibly and not spend tons of money.

Adding a new member to your family that demands 24/7 care is a big adjustment. Where do movement and nutrition fit in? Since we are not all movie stars and super models, try not to hold yourself up to those standards. Instead, do your body recharge in a sensible, everywoman's way. A little can go a long way; just like cleaning your house, start with small reachable goals so that you set yourself up for success. After clearing the start of an exercise program with your doctor, you are ready to begin in a sensible way. (Most women can return to exercise four to six weeks after a vaginal birth or after bleeding has stopped; or 8-10 weeks after a cesarean with a physicians approval.)

Start by carving out time for your exercise. I know, you are wondering how to find the time and energy to exercise when you have a hard time just getting showered and out the door. You don't have time for coffee, let alone exercise at a gym. But, I'll bet you have a stroller or baby backpack. Walking with your baby is a great place to start. Put the baby or toddler in and hit the mall or the sidewalk. Your baby will be excited because it will give them some relaxation, fresh air and new things to look at. Start slow and move up to a faster pace and longer walks as you feel the pounds drop off and the worries slide off your shoulders.

If you are more of a workout-on-the-mat type of gal, don't worry about trying to arrange childcare; it is challenging enough to lose the baby weight. Use your baby in your workout. You and your baby can re-shape your body right from the comfort of your home, have fun doing it and reduce the stress you may feel about leaving baby behind. Exercising with your family gives you the opportunity to start on a healthful, daily life pattern that includes fitness and quality time as a family. (see sample exercises in box)

Continue the focus to get your body back by reactivating and building the pelvic floor, the transverses abdominis, the obliques and lumbo pelvic stability. If that is confusing lingo then think of all those muscles as your "core". You need to rebuild your core. A classical Pilates class is ideal for rebuilding your core for pre and post-natal women for the same reason it has been labeled an exercise program for a lifetime. It is a complete coordination of body-mind-spirit with a custom approach which ensures every client benefits from a workout tailored to their fitness level and their body's unique intricacies. Women have used Pilates worldwide to strengthen their pelvic area and stomach muscles.

If you have the luxury of leaving baby in the care of others take some "me" time. Try to relax your mind and workout in the moment. Your baby is in good hands, now take this time for yourself to take a class or walk the neighborhood. You will come back to your family more relaxed, able to give more, and be a better Mommy. Exercise is an antidepressant. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists promotes exercise as a key factor in the health of new Moms and a paper published recently in the Journal of Midwifery and Women's Health suggests that it offers benefits to help with postpartum depression.

Do not spend time on crazy, frustrating methods of losing weight. Some women think a crash diet is the way to go. Ever notice the word "Die" is in diet? Breast-feeding is your best diet because it burns calories, which helps in your weight loss efforts. If you are not breast-feeding then stick to sensible, whole foods that nourish your body without adding fat or non-nourishing calories. Cutting out whole food groups is never good for you because your body needs all food groups to be healthy, especially if your body is healing from giving birth and breast-feeding. If you are breast-feeding, you should be eating 1500 calories or more, or you could be short-changing you and the baby. Remember, you need whole, healthy foods to re-new, re-store, heal and re-energize your body.

Finally, do not depress yourself or hamper your progress by comparing yourself to others. Especially when you are up in the middle of the night with the baby, watching television, and you see the tabloid entertainment shows creating a spectacle of these high-profile women, who just bounce from the delivery room to supermodel shape overnight. You might be thinking, "What is wrong with me?" I have news for you. It isn't a realistic expectation, or a healthy one, for you to return to a "slim self" just days after giving birth. An important point to remember is that these women's jobs depend upon their body. Heidi Klum as a supermodel is required to keep her body in perfect condition no matter what it does to her or her babies. Actresses are also known for their bodies, it's sometimes all they have so they must keep in shape to keep on top of their game.

Laura Riley, M.D., a high risk pregnancy expert from Massachusetts General Hospital and spokeswomen for the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states: "We don't have the kind of lifestyle that would allow for that kind of quick loss-and the sooner women recognize that, the better they will feel about themselves."

So, check out the ideas above, and check with your doctor and start a program today that fits your lifestyle. Pick a program that is true to you and your goals. Remove the supermodel images from your head. You have already run the marathon of pregnancy and delivery. You are already a SuperMommy. Make sure the program that you choose is something that honors you, and if it feels good doing it, you will maintain the program over the long term. Stay away from fitness gimmicks and muscle wrenching workouts that punish you into reaching your goals.

One final reminder, don't let a lapse derail your efforts and become a collapse. Maintaining a healthy lifestyle is a lifelong commitment and no one is perfect at it. Lose the "all or nothing" attitude and instead focus on one day at a time.

Side Bar #1

Check out your local Community College. Most have a great mix of classes that will help you reach your goals. Our local college, Monroe County Community College has re-aligned their class mix to be forward thinking and inspiring the community to movement. Programs are affordable because you share the cost with a group of "like-minded" peers; the local public transportation system runs bus schedules to the college and they have a complete list of classes to help you with each aspect of getting your health and body back in order.

For example:

o Pilates, corrective exercise to help you re-align your posture and activate and strengthen your core;
o Yoga, to help you reduce stress, increase flexibility, and be a better self.
o Intuitive Eating will help you learn to eat healthy and intuitively without diets and will provide you with a program that the whole family will want to follow.
o Fitness Coaching will help you start an exercise routine, pick cardio sessions that aren't boring or help you get to that next level and win the triathlon.

The list at the college is endless to choose from. Start with the area that works best for you. To learn more about what Monroe County Community College has to offer call 734-242-7300 and request a Life Long Learning Catalog. Not in Monroe County? Look up your local college, call the administration office and inquire about their programs today.

Side Bar #2

Tips for Postpartum Moms

o Be physically active (at least 30 minutes) most days of the week
o Relax, breathe and enjoy this special moment in you life
o American Journal of Preventive Medicine (2007; 32[4], 305-11) found that a sound walking program may be what postpartum moms need. New moms who watch fewer than two hours of TV daily, walk 30 minutes or more per day and eat fewer trans fats are 77% less likely to retain the baby weight.
-- IDEA Fitness Journal July/ August 2007
o There are two main components that you are trying to accomplish.

1. Restoring your abdominal muscles and core strength...Pilates is an excellent choice for this.
2. Dynamic stability: I know this is a little odd, but you just passed an object the size of a large eggplant.

You have loose joints, weakened abs, etc. After pregnancy it is very easy to exercise out of alignment. You need to learn how to properly position your body's alignment so that you develop core strength, healthy spinal function and prevent injury. Pilates wins the vote again to accomplish this.
o How do you pick a movement program that is right for you at the different stages of getting your body back?

Consider the following:

o Start with bonding, where you, and baby exercise together.
o Include total body workouts, do movements that work your entire body.
o Consider practicality, a workout that is tailored to meet your needs so that you don't have the fear of wetting your pants forever.
o Gradually increase your intensity, start out easy and make it harder as you get stronger.

Sidebar #3

Here are two short workout sessions to try: (Be sure your doctor has released you for exercise first) 30 minute indoor workout:

o You and baby need to move around the house for about 10 minutes.
Have fun and walk briskly until you feel warm.
o Lay your baby down on a blanket.

Position yourself so that you can do kneeling push-ups over the baby. Each time you lower your body, give your baby a kiss, As you lift up, give your baby a smile. Do this for 2 minutes.

o From your hands and knees (all fours position) lift your hips toward the sky and step into the position where your hands and feet are on the ground, and your body is over your baby (downward facing dog).
You will still be gazing into your baby's eyes and you get a good stretch through the posterior side of your body (back side)
Remember! Your abdominals should still be hugging your spine to protect your low back.
Hold this for about 2 minutes.

o Dance with your baby to children's music for 16 minutes and you have a 30-minute workout in.

30 minute outdoor workout:

o Start on your hands and knees (all fours position), starting at the tailbone, arch your back up to the sky one vertebra at a time.

Starting at the tailbone, reverse the arch to a "sway back" one vertebra at time. (Cat & Cow)
This articulation of the spine is coming from using your abdominal muscles, not your legs or arms. Inhale into cow and exhale into cat. (About 10 cycles). Use your breath to help you work deeper into your abdominals. Do this for one minute.

o Lying on your back with bent knees and feet close to your bottom, arms long at your side.
Inhale and lift your hips to the sky and then exhale and roll down bone by bone. (Shoulder Bridge)
Insure that your abdominals are hugging your spine while you do this (no pouching of the belly)

o Lying on your back with legs bent Inhale, roll back tucking your tail and snapping each vertebra to the mat. Roll from your tailbone to your bra strap and then progress to rolling from your sacrum to lying flat. Hold onto the back of the legs and allow the spine to peel and articulate on and off the mat. Inhale to prepare and exhale to scoop your abdominals and lift up (Modified Roll Up) Lying on your back with bent knees Inhale and lift the head off of the mat, Exhale and crease at your sternum with the tips of your shoulder blades on the mat, shoulders open, Slide your arms along the mat, keep your eyes on your navel, (Neck Curls) Return to the mat-- lengthening through the crown of your head. As you curl up, ensure that your abdominals are pulling in and up.

o Standing flat on your feet, sweep your arms up to the sky. Bend your knees to protect your low back and bend at the hips until your hands reach the ground. Try and straighten your legs as much as your flexibility will allow. (Forward Fold). Inhale, bends your knees and return to standing, exhale bends your knees and forward fold. Always be mindful of what your abdominals are doing.

o Turn so that you are facing away from the stroller handle then reach back for the bar and give yourself a big stretch through your chest. (Chest Expansion)

o Out for an interval walk with the baby and stroller: 5 minutes of walking at an easy pace, 5 minutes of walking at a brisk pace, 5 minutes of walking at an easy pace, 5 minutes of walking at a brisk pace

o Do 2 minutes of walking lunges behind the stroller

o 2 minutes of holding your baby, peaceful relaxation outdoors

Side Bar #4

Food suggestions and tips:

o Limit caffeine to no more than 300 mg per day. Better yet, reduce it further (March of Dimes 2007)
o Avoid alcohol if breast-feeding. If you must, please drink only a moderate amount and wait 3 hours before you breast feed (LaLeche League International 2006)
o Eat more fruits, vegetables and whole grains
o No smoking
o Also, talk with your doctor about continuing with a DHA supplement and prenatal vitamin while you are breast feeding
o The LaLeche League's philosophy is "Good nutrition means a well-balanced and varied diet of foods in as close to their natural state as possible" Eat fresh and healthy food in a variety of choices. Anything you are happy to eat is okay while you are breast-feeding.
o A healthy diet of vegetables, fruits, whole grain and lean protein is important for any person. It gives a mother the nutrition's to produce milk for her baby as well.
o The most important thing is to start small, for example reading labels and looking for foods with no high fructose corn syrup, hydrogenated oils or colored dyes. Once you have this mastered, think about offering more than one vegetable choice at dinner (green leafy salad (no iceberg) and a steamed vegetable of choice), then move to only purchasing whole grains, etc.
o With simple steps paced out over time it is less overwhelming, you gravitate toward healthier and healthier choices over time

Sample menu from the Mayo Clinic Healthy Weight Pyramid for a 1200-1500 calorie diet.
o Breakfast:
o 1 medium banana,
o 1 cup bran cereal,
o 1 cup fat free milk,
o Herbal tea.
o Lunch:
o Tuna salad sandwich (tuna, 1 tablespoon mayonnaise, ½ teaspoon of curry, chopped celery) top with leaf lettuce,
o 2 slices of whole grain bread,
o 2 cups of raw baby carrots, jicama and bell pepper strips,
o 1 small apple
o Water.
o Dinner:
o 3 oz of boiled cod sprinkled with juice of 1 lemon wedge
o 1 teaspoon drained and rinsed capers,
o ¾ cup steamed green beans,
o ½ cup sliced beets,
o Salad made with 1 cup of variety of green leaf lettuce, ½ cup cherry tomatoes, splash of balsamic vinegar and 2 teaspoons extra-virgin olive oil
o Sparkling water with lemon.
o Snack: 1 small pear and 1 ounce of cheese

Fertility Tea - How Drinking Tea Can Help You Get Pregnant

Infertility teas are becoming increasing more popular for women who are trying to get pregnant Infertility teas typically contain popular herbs for infertility.

Drinking a blended fertility tea containing important ingredients such as Vitex is now regarded by clinicians to fix reproductive tissues, regain a regular ovulation schedule and balance reproductive hormones; though women worldwide have understood the benefits of the herbs in Ovulation Tea for hundreds of years.

While there is no single herbal treatment that can offer you all the benefits of an infertility tea, by combining certain natural herbs, minerals and vitamins each known for their repairing and restorative properties into a single enjoyable tea, you can be the recipient of all that an ovulation tea has to offer.

Teas for fertility and overall reproductive wellness are in general blended with natural ingredients such as:

Green tea - a known anti-oxidant that can assist you restore your reproductive health damaged by age and environmental toxins.

Red raspberry leaf - known to firm the muscles of the pelvic region and the uterus.

Chasteberry energizes hormones related with ovulation stimulating them to produce a more balanced reproductive system. Used as an herbal remedy to help women regain a regular fertile menstrual cycle.

Peppermint - a known libido booster, also taken to add additional taste to the tea. When used in conjunction with red raspberry leaf tea, it strengthens the herb.

Nettle leaf - contains numerous nutrients and Vitamins A, C, D, and K, along with phosphorous, iron, potassium, and sulfur, which are all crucial for maintaining good reproductive health and having a healthy pregnancy.

Surprisingly, infertility teas aren't expensive. But when searching for a high quality ovulation tea, check to see that it is formulated from clean herbs that are organic, is of the best quality and have no things added.

If you are looking for a drug freeway to restore your reproductive organs and uterus, help strengthen and achieve a more regulated ovulating cycle and reap the benefits of balanced hormones, then infertility tea is for you.

Known for its restorative power for years, blended conception tea has the properties to firm up pelvic muscles, strengthen your uterus, and balance your reproductive fertility hormones. By buying a natural wild-crafted high quality infertility tea, can easily boost to your overall infertility system.

Top 5 Signs of Pregnancy

It is commonly believed that women instinctively know when they are pregnant. That's only part of the truth. The onset of pregnancy is marked by a series of changes in their bodies. Women who are sensitive to these symptoms-especially if they have been pregnant before-correctly interpret them as signs of pregnancy.

# 1. Nausea. Symptoms of nausea are a very common sign of pregnancy. Popularly termed 'morning sickness,' the symptoms may be felt at all times of the day. Many women also develop an intense aversion to certain smells or tastes, of food items for instance, that they liked earlier. Symptoms of nausea may continue to be felt even into the second semester.

# 2. Abdominal bloat. Soon after conception, hormonal changes cause the abdomen to feel distended. Your spouse may complain that her clothes are getting tighter. This pregnancy sign is similar to the feeling of bloat she experiences when she has her periods.

# 3. Tender breasts. If your spouse complains that her breasts pain when you touch them, you may have reason to rejoice. Tenderness or soreness of the breasts is another obvious sign of pregnancy. The pain is similar to, but usually more intense than, what women experience during periods. A related pregnancy symptom is a feeling of fullness in the breasts. The appearance of the breasts may also change with veins becoming visible under the skin.

# 4. Montgomery's tubercules. Somber as the phrase sounds, it simply refers to the wart like projections that form around the areolas-the dark area surrounding the nipples- of the breasts.

# 5. Missed periods. A very likely sign of pregnancy is when your spouse misses a period. The scanty menstrual-like flow that sometimes appears at the time of implantation-around ten days after conception-is not a period, and, in fact, indicates a pregnancy.

The presence of some or all of these signs of pregnancy indicates that your spouse should go in for a pregnancy test.

How to Treat Postpartum Depression - 5 Steps of Treatment

Postpartum depression is a condition that many new moms go through. 80% of moms will go through something known as the "baby blues" shortly after giving birth. There is no problem with this; it is just from the dramatic change in the hormones. However, 20% of new moms will develop postpartum depression, which continues weeks and months after the baby is born.

This condition is very serious and can put the baby and the mom at risk. Because of this, it is very important to treat it as soon as possible. Whether you are the new mom looking for a way to help yourself or a partner or friend looking for a way to help the new mom, this is a five step treatment process to help with postpartum depression.

1. Support. Having the support from family and friends is extremely important. This is not just about having someone to talk to - although that will help - this is also about having someone who is willing to help around the house or with the infant. The new mom needs her rest just as much as the new baby will but that's unlikely to happen without the help from friends and family members. A friend folding laundry will give the new mom a chance to grab a few minutes of shut-eye, which can really help.

2. Talk. This is not always from a friend of family member. In fact, many people do not feel comfortable opening up to someone that knows them and will prefer to open up to a professional instead. There is nothing wrong with wanting to talk about your problems; it's a good way to stop them from building up.

3. Emotional Freedom Technique. This is a popular process for many women suffering from postpartum depression. The benefit is that the acupuncture will help to take the mind of the negative thoughts while the talking will give the new mom a chance to get everything off her chest and work out a better way of dealing with the problem.

4. Healthy Eating and Exercise. Staying healthy will help to improve your energy levels. Rather than opting for the quick cup of coffee to boost the energy temporarily, snack on fruit and nuts and eat healthy meals that are high in protein. These will release the energy slower, which means you'll feel energized for longer. The exercise can also help with the release of endorphins, which will help you feel happier.

5. Antidepressants. As none of the above proves to help with the postpartum depression, many doctors will decide to opt for the antidepressants. These can help many women get over the slump in hormones and their anxieties about being a new mom. Antipsychotics are used when the depression becomes more serious and life threatening, for both the mother and the baby.