Saturday, September 21, 2013

Ardyss International's Maternity Garments and Nutritional Products For Pregnant Women


There are over four and half million births in the United States each year. And any woman who has gone through the stages of pregnancy and development can attest to the significant changes their bodies make throughout that time. The nine months leading up to the birth of a child is an extremely delicate time emotional, physically, and spiritually and often requires lifestyles changes.

The changes that women undergo include making changes to their diet and the introduction of essential vitamins, minerals, and additional supplements to ensure they receive all the necessary components that help nurture a new life.

In the latest Doctors Showcase call with Drs. Lee Laney (Gastroenterologist), Tonia Farmer (ENT) and Abdul-al (Ob/GYN) they all spoke about the importance of a wrap-around care for pregnancy that can help supplement your doctors' care and help ensure you have a smooth, healthy pregnancy experience. These leading medical professional are part of the growing Ardyss International business team that utilize the products in their independent practices throughout the country.

As doctors they have all been involved in some capacity with pregnant women and have offered medical advice and assistance throughout pregnancy. They have recently decided to explore the importance of how the Ardyss products both nutritional and garments can benefit pregnant women. Dr. Laney has delivered well over 50 children in his career and although his emphasis is in Gastroenterology he has profound insight into the needs of women including the essential products pregnant women should be including in their daily diets.

There are essential vitamins Dr. Laney advocates that all women need pre-pregnancy and throughout that can help make for a much more comfortable maternity experience. He suggestion during pre-pregnancy that women build up on Calcium, Omega-3 fatty acids, folic acid, and water-soluble (Vitamins B and C) and fat-soluble(Vitamins A, D, E, K). These will be helpful to the mother prior pregnancy and the health of the fetus and will help with gastro and intestinal problems.

Those supplements can be addressed in the Ardyss nutritional products line by consuming Ardyss Plus, Coral Calcium, Le Vive, Green 29, and Omega 3, 6, 9 supplements, and the delicious Nutrishake for additional protein support. A recent study by a team from University of South Carolina found the women taking the highest dose of Vitamin D were 50 per cent less likely to suffer from problems including premature labour, pre-eclampsia, gestational diabetes and infections, than those on the lowest dose. Dr Carol Wagner, lead author of the study, said: "The spectacular part of the study was it showed women replete in vitamin D had lower rates of preterm labor and preterm birth, and lower rates of infection."

As a pregnant physician preparing for her third child, Dr. Farmer is aware and attested to the most challenging problem women face during pregnancy-Back Pain. The overall consensus is among medical professionals is to encourage use of a non-restrictive maternity garment which will help alleviate back problems. In addition to the suggestion of getting ample exercise, the benefits of chiropractic care and acupuncture can be used linked to effective treatment for back pain. Because the body is experiencing weight gain and the developing fetus is changing the shape and posture of the body it is vital to have support around the abdominal region and back.

Dr Abdul-al understands the complaints new mothers as a highly respected doctor he often hears the complaints of new mothers and he first line of defense for his patients are the use of Ardyss International's maternity girdles from the second trimester to birth. These garments are medical grade garments designed by an Orthopedic Doctor Lionel Kelly who designed the full product line of Ardyss garments with the intention of overall body support. These particular garments are of particular benefit to pregnant women because they are designed to help alleviate fluid build-up and provide comfortable and support in this areas where women have new contours and additional weight gain.

The Ardyss maternity garments are just being discovered by medical professionals all over the world because of their benefits to patients. You can engage your own physician to seek out more information about these product especially if you wan to use them throughout your pregnancy. The statistics are staggering for low-birth weight and premature babies born in the United States it can be likened to living in a developing country with little to no medical care throughout pregnancy. Even more surprising is how these issues affect African American women regardless of socio-economic status. These issues can be halted by having access to important information and alternative care products.

The Ardyss Doctors Showcase will continue to host webinars on different topics I would encourage anyone interested in learning more to stay connected via email. This article is here to provide information on Ardyss International products to help improve your quality of life. This information presented here does not diagnose or treat any illness, you should always check with your physician before using any new products.

The Danger Behind Teenage Pregnancy


A sad reality confronted the entire world after the reports coming from US regarding teen pregnancy. It has been reported that 17 teenagers from a school in Massachusetts are pregnant and many of them are less than 16 years of age. The whole idea about being a teen mother is not out of compulsion but fancy. The hormonal growth of a teen is much higher as compared to adult women, which makes a young girl more active and energetic. Nonetheless, this increased fertility rates and strong body metabolism are not enough to cope up with the emotional and physiological stress during pregnancy. The large number of pregnant teens not only adds to population growth but pose a threat to entire mankind.

This situation arises more due to peer pressure, or increasing sexual experimentation at a tender age. The recent report shows that teenage pregnancy in US is relatively higher than any other developed or developing nations. The number is expected to cross the shocking figure of 1 million each year, according to a news report. The prime concern about being a mother is responsibility. Becoming a mother in an adolescent age leaves the teen perplexed about handling the entire situation. Moreover, such unwanted pregnancy usually creates major health concerns. This article is more focused on looking at the health risks attached behind teen pregnancy.

Risk to Fetus

The body metabolism of a teen mother is such that it cannot nourish the fetus adequately, which might result in a low -weight babies. It is also possible that certain body organs of the child is under developed leading to childhood disorder and higher infant mortality rates. Owing to the body shape and size, it is difficult for a teenage mother to deliver a baby normally, whereas the caesarian method might be dangerous. It could lead to physical complications like excessive bleeding.

Negligence of teenage mother

Often the teen age moms-to-be are not responsible enough to take care of their health and their babies health as well. Random eating habits and mal nutrition due to increased rate of smoking, excessive alcohol intake, or taking drugs during pregnancy may put both the mother and infant in a great danger.

Prenatal Care

According to the American Medical Association (AMA), newborn babies who do not get sufficient prenatal care are under higher risk and are more likely to die before the age of 1 year.

Social Negligence

Not only the increased health risks but the added pressure from the society comes as a serious shock for the teenage mothers. It is usually hard to get a social acceptance for such babies. It may hamper the psychological balance of a teenage mom, resulting in suicide in extreme case.

Other Consequences

Apart from facing a rejection from the society, factors like running a family and low annual income of the child's teenage parents may pose a serious trouble to carry out day to day functioning. According to reports, In the United States, the annual cost of teen pregnancies from lost tax revenues, public assistance, child health care, foster care, and involvement with the criminal justice system is estimated to be about $7 billion.

By no means, being a mother is an easy task. It takes lots of planning, sleepless nights, hair - tearing episodes, firm decision, and proper financial support before you opt to be mother. And that too, it is never advisable to get pregnant at a tender age. Never let your sexual adventures and other such experiments spoil for health, career and your future.

Getting Health Insurance For Pregnant Women


Although it is important for everyone to have a health insurance, it is particularly important in the context of pregnant women. The reason is obvious: there are many things that can go wrong during pregnancy, or could be made better if the woman is aware of certain facts. Therefore, it is essential that pregnant women periodically receive check-ups in order to make sure the pregnancy is progressing properly and there are no detectable problems with their unborn child.

Unfortunately, many pregnant women do not have health insurance. It has been statistically shown that when they deliver, their babies are more likely to have low birth weight and higher incidents of death.

Getting an insurance while pregnant has become significant today because of the towering cost of health insurance in the United States. According to the American Health Association, 41 million Americans are not insured, and around 13% pregnant women in the country do not possess any form of health insurance. This puts these women and their unborn children at risk.

Prenatal checkups can be very expensive, not to mention hospital and delivery charges which could cost $10,000 or more. Furthermore, if there are complications, such as premature birth or the woman requires a cesarean section, the costs would be much greater. Therefore, it is strongly recommended for pregnant women to find a way to obtain health insurance.

The problem is that most companies do not accept new insurance policies from pregnant women whose pregnancy has been assessed as a pre-existing condition. Ideally, if you are a woman and you know you wish to get pregnant, things would be much easier for you if you got health insurance before you got pregnant. That being said, if you are uninsured and found out you are pregnant, here are some useful tips that could help you obtain health insurance:

First, shop around - search the internet - for health insurance companies who can provide pregnancy health coverage and discounted health care coverage. It is easy to get free instant quotes from multiple providers. Some may very well be more affordable than others.

Second, there are some federally funded programs which offer healthcare coverage for low income people. Medicaid, for example, allows you to enroll in a health insurance plan even when you are pregnant. An additional program is CHIP. Some states have specialized programs for this purpose: investigate whether your state offers one.

Third, look for additional benefits provided by other agencies. WIC is a federal agency that offers health services to low income women and children under 5, and also provides food supplements.

Finally, if you are in a position where you have several options, make sure you choose your plan carefully: choose the plan which covers all the benefits you may require. For example a hospital-only plan will not cover visits to a physician's clinic.

Breast-feeding Moms Plus Breast-feeding Information Plus Support Equals Quality Child Care


Will you change my diaper please? I'm hungry, I'm ready to eat. Whine! Whine!. Well mommy, you know that's the sound of the new kid on the block. Moms, are you ready for this newcomer? Well, we want to remind you that baby care should be top on your priority list.

We would like to share with you helpful suggestions and professional help on Prenatal and Postnatal care. This care will benefit both you and the baby.

What Moms Can Do To Insure Good Health Before and During The Breast-feeding Period.

Breast-feeding is the original form of baby feeding.-- it is as natural as drinking water. Moms, here are some helpful tips from the American Medical Association(AMA) on staying healthy during pregnancy:


  • Avoid alcohol and smoking.

  • Maintain good vitamin B12 levels-- a deficiency in infants can cause permanent brain damage.

  • Get enough calcium... 18 years and under 1,300mg... 19 years and older 1,000mg.

  • Exercise safely...

Benefits...

*Can help ease and prevent the aches and pains of pregnancy.

*Regular exercise may improve sleep during pregnancy.

*Active women seem to be better prepared for labor and delivery.

*May lower the risk of high blood pressure and diabetes during pregnancy.

How The Baby Benefits From It's Mothers Health During The Breast-feeding Period.


  • Baby gets needed nutrients from it's mom through the Placenta.(American Medical Association)

  • Protected from the ravages of the environment.. water and air.(American Medical Association)

  • Babies that are breast-feed suffers from fewer infectious diseases, especially ear infections, pneumonia, allergy problem and fewer cases of cancer including lymphoma, leukemia, bone and brain tumors.(Dr. Jimmy Gutman.. leading expert on Glutathione and the Immune System)

  • Breast-feeding profoundly affects the baby's immune function by giving it high levels of glutathione precursors.(Dr. Jimmy Gutman's book 'Glutathione.. Your Key To Health' page 168)


Prenatal and Postnatal Care

Breast-feeding, baby care. Can someone please help me?.

Moms, we know if this is your first time experience, you may have many questions. Education, guidance and support will empower you to attain and maintain health and wellness through the Prenatal and Postnatal period. You'll Be Just Fine. We Are Here For You.

I am sure you will agree moms, that staying healthy, breast-feeding and child-birth care is by far Mother's Choice. We invite you moms to take advantage of the provisions that offers pregnancy and breast-feeding services, along with Prenatal and Postnatal education.

Breast-feeding is the original form of baby feeding -- it is as natural as drinking water.

Whine! whine! OK, my little china doll, are you ready to eat?

How Soon Can You Get Pregnant? Learning the Factors That Affect Conception


Newly married couples often wonder on how soon they can have a baby. Well, on average, it takes up to 2 years for couples to conceive. However, you may feel that this is too long for you to wait. If you have been waiting for two years and you haven't gotten pregnant yet, don't worry. It doesn't mean that you can't have a baby; it's just a matter of time. Keep trying and think positively so that the process of getting pregnant will be easier and more enjoyable as well. Besides, study the factors that can improve or worsen your attempts to conceive. Learning about these factors will minimize all of your worries and stresses. Then, you can take the needed steps to get pregnant.

Factors That Make you need to Wait Longer to Conceive

It is important for couples to know the factors that can reduce the chance of getting pregnant. By avoiding these factors should help them to conceive easily. Below are some factors that can interfere with your fertility:

1. Reproductive problems. Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is one of the reproductive problems that can affect your chances of getting pregnant. This disease involves an infection on the upper genital tract that finally can spread to the uterus, womb and fallopian tubes. However, women with PID still have a high chance of getting pregnant if the disease is treated early.

2. An unhealthy lifestyle is another factor that can reduce your chance to conceive. If you eat a poor diet, smoke or take alcohol, you had better stop these habits early. You also need to maintain your ideal weight; make sure that you are not overweight or underweight. Regular exercise is the solution to achieve an ideal weight as well as to keep your body healthy.

Factors to Improve your Chance to Get Pregnant

To conceive successfully, you and your partner should be in a tip-top condition. Make sure that you have sex regularly, preferably once every two or three days. Some experts believe that having sex every other day will reduce your sperm quality. To maximize the chance of conceiving, you can have intercourse some days before the expected date of ovulation or during your actual ovulation. Ovulation is your most fertile period and having sex at this tine greatly improves the likelihood that you will conceive. How do you know if you're ovulating? There are some obvious signs that tell if you are ovulating. When you feel changes in the consistency of your cervical mucus, have a rising basal body temperature and increase in libido, you are probably ovulating.

Last but not least, make the effort of getting pregnant as much fun as possible. You don't need to be in a hurry to have a baby. Take the required steps to conceive and have a positive outlook to make the entire process less complicated.

Friday, September 20, 2013

Benefits of Yoga For Pregnant Women


Yoga can not only help you stay fit through a pregnancy, but also boost mind and body, helping to keep your pregnancy hassle-free. As an ancient Indian practice, tracing its roots back almost 5000 years, yoga is a tried and true means of dealing with your overall well-being, both mind and body. Each yoga pose, or asana, is tied to breathing techniques, or pranayamas, and focuses on specific parts of the body to ensure a complete body effort. Specific to pregnant women, yoga asanas helps to open muscles of the pelvis, reducing pressure on ligaments and easing lower-back pain. Additionally, it promotes flexibility, strength and stamina, as it focuses the entire body on releasing and relaxing. No activity does better at centering the mind and relieving stress, while gently toning the body. Not only does the mother benefit from yoga, but the baby does as well by receiving increased levels of oxygen and endorphins. The benefits of yoga for pregnant women are described in detail below.

One of the most common benefits of yoga for pregnant women is to help stay in shape throughout the pregnancy. Regardless of your fitness level or skill level, yoga is a gentle, but highly effective way of toning the muscles throughout the pregnancy. Additionally, many yoga instructors are trained and certified in yoga for pre-natal women and can help to customize your yoga workout to ensure the greatest level of safely and the most effective workout possible. Yoga can help to target specific trouble areas for pregnant women during pregnancy, such as helping to strengthens abdomen muscles and pelvic floor.

One of the benefits of yoga for pregnant women is that it can help to boost circulation and help with fluid retention. This is extremely important as you are doing the work for two during pregnancy. Additionally, asanas help to relieve aches and pains. Working with your instructor, you can tailor your workout to focus on specific areas of pain and discomfort. As many asanas focus on proper alignment of the body, yoga will help to improve posture, helping to ease back pain, which is common in pregnant women.

Another one of the benefits of yoga for pregnant women, and for people in general, is that spending time focusing on the combination of body position and breathing, you begin to obtain an increased awareness of your body. Through this greater awareness, you are able to better understand what is happening to your body throughout pregnancy. Some aspects of pregnancy, such as weight gain, morning sickness and decreased sexuality, can bring about feelings of depression and low self-esteem. Yoga can help deal with these feelings by allowing you to refocus and balance your energy, helping to shift into a positive mindset.

As a safety precaution when starting yoga, always remember to check with your doctor if you are unsure of a safe level of physical exertion for yourself during the pregnancy. When looking for the right class, make sure to take both the style of yoga and instructor into consideration. Certain styles of yoga are better for pregnant women, such as Ananda, Hatha, Kundalini, and Iyengar, are better for pregnant women as they are more focused on proper alignment of the body and breathing than on a high intensity workout such as Power or Bikram yoga. If you are unfamiliar with yoga or the specific style of yoga you will be taking, make sure to take a supervised class, at least initially. Good instructors will be able to help you customize your workout to meet your unique needs. Additionally, make sure your instructor is certified in prenatal yoga though an accredited yoga institute.

Regardless of your skill level, make sure to start slow to best understand your bodies capability during this time of change. The best rule to follow when practicing yoga is, if it doesn't feel good, don't do it. As you get comfortable with the asanas, feel free to practice on your own, but again, talk to your instructor to discuss poses that will provide the greatest benefit and that are safe to practice alone. Many yoga books and videos are also available that are focused specifically for pregnant women.

Avoid strong back bends or asanas requiring strong use of stomach muscles as this can cause undo stress on the body. Use your best judgment when doing balancing poses, especially those done on one foot. If you want to perform these poses, make sure to use a chair, wall or another individual for support. Make sure to not to overstretch the body as the ligaments around the joints become loose and soft during pregnancy. Be care not to overheat when practicing yoga as it can be harmful to the fetus. For this reason forms of yoga that involve turning up the heat in the room should be avoided; this includes both Hot and Bikram Yoga. As stated above, make sure to listen to your body and stop if you begin to feel the slightest bit of pain or discomfort. A gentle approach over time yields the best results.

Outside of the workout element, one of the benefits of yoga for pregnant women is social atmosphere it provides for pregnant women. In yoga classes specifically tailored to pregnant women, mothers-to-be are able to share stories and discuss issues and concerns. Often, the relationships built during these yoga classes, build into playgroups for the children after birth and long term social groups.

Yoga can be practiced until late in the pregnancy. As your body changes, make sure to modify your workout to ensure personal comfort. Yoga can provide benefits even during labor. The focus and relaxation achieved during a yoga session can be mimicked during labor by using pranayama techniques to center yourself and helping to open musculature and quiet the mind. After child birth, yoga can help to maintain a proper body shape, as well as strengthen the pelvic floor and abdominal muscles. Additionally, the focusing techniques in yoga can be helpful for those facing post-partum depression. You can start practicing yoga six to seven weeks after delivering delivery.

With both physical and mental benefits that can last throughout the pregnancy, yoga can prove to be a valuable tool to pregnant mothers.

Your Husbands Role From Pregnancy To Birth


It is unfortunate to know that some men think that the only role they can play in pregnancy is by providing the sperm and once fertilization has taken place, their work is over. Well, that in itself gives one a title-FATHER! But he has got to act like one and indeed be one.

Once your wife becomes pregnant, you are not pregnant yourself and you should not despise what she says she feels. You should understand that there is so much that she cannot be in control of that is happening in her body. This is because of hormonal changes.

Both of you are equally responsible for the child you decided to bring into the world. Just that she got the duty of housing your child as it grows. There is so much you can do for her to show appreciation and your involvement in the pregnancy. I like what a friend of mine once said in reference to the time that the wife was expectant. "...the time we were pregnant" For me it presented deep commitment and involvement and I just loved that.

WHEN THE PREGNANCY TEST IS POSITIVE
Right from this moment, you as a husband should be involved in everything else that follows. You may not have experienced a pregnant woman before. In this case it is not just another pregnant woman, it is your wife and more so, carrying your baby! You may need to start attending childbirth classes. These classes will help you understand her and also know what to do when certain emergencies happen. A greater deal will it help when she is in labor instead of staying all green as your wife goes through the pregnancy.

You will need to also show up for some of the prenatal appointments. At least you may not afford to miss out on the most important ones like the one on the child's first heartbeat and ultra sounds.

GIVE A HAND
While some women are still strong to perform some household tasks even as late as their eighth month of pregnancy, the husband should come in. It does no harm when you help wash dishes or even fix the evening meal. If anything, it makes the wife happier. Providing breakfast in bed would also be a good surprise for the morning.

SPEND TIME TOGETHER
Some men are ashamed of walking beside their wives when in their late months of pregnancy. I do not understand why this should be the case. They should instead be happy that they are just about to be called daddy. Take her out for a stroll and probably jog together back home. Do not forget that she is still your sweetheart and deserves special treatment. Take her out for dinner!

FEEL THE BABY
Try resting your hand on her belly while watching TV or while relaxing in bed. It gives a feeling of concern and suggests saying. 'If only I could help carry the baby' and it brings you almost to the same level.

SHOW INTEREST
You should ask every often how the mother and the baby are doing. When she suggests you go out for shopping, avail yourself unless you are very committed somewhere else. Suggest baby names too. Let it not look like she is the only one too obsessed with that.

WHEN IT IS BABY TIME!
Here, if you took the childbirth classes, you will be better placed as you know how to handle the situation. Before labor, you would talk with your partner and agree to what you would want him to do for you. It is advisable that you are present as your wife delivers. It gives a feeling of oneness. Husbands who have been present during the delivery of their kids have an interesting story to tell and they term it as the best experience in the world. It is good to be there so as to feel with her. Some men say that they cannot stand the process. How then do they expect their wives to go through it? Gone are the days that husbands used to pace up and down the waiting room of hospitals waiting for the doctor to announce "it's a baby girl" or "it's a baby boy". Today, they can get in to where the delivery is taking place.

It is important for the husband to be around so as to:

• Provide encouragement-while it may not be welcome during a tough labor, it is good for him to be there. At least a word of encouragement from him will take the wife miles.
• Help relieve pain- with massage, acupressure or any other means or relieving pain, he should walk with her as many steps through the pain as he can.
• Give updates to family.

ADVICE TO HUSBANDS

• Help your wife in her emotions - She may be scared as you would also apparently be. She needs support and she should draw it from you. You need to encourage her as she goes through the process reassuring her that you love her and that she is doing a good thing for the family.

• Ensure skin to skin contact - as much as possible make sure your body is touching her skin whenever possible. This helps in soothing her and she feels safe. Many partners remove their shirts or all of their clothing and cradle their partners as they are moving through contractions and pushing.

There are very many other roles that husband can play when their wives are pregnant. Even as simple as rubbing her feet! You do not need to go to a school to do that! You simply have to listen to your instincts and be natural. So husbands should not just sit and watch for nine months until the baby comes. Make the most of the opportunity!

Your Money Or Your Health! What is Health Insurance Really For?


There are only 4 reasons why we get health insurance. The goals of health insurance are:


  1. to avoid the risk of financial ruin from illness

  2. to save money,

  3. to stay healthy and

  4. to have the feeling of security that comes with thinking that our care is paid for.

This article looks at reasons 1 and 2, and poses some questions to ask yourself to choose the insurance that will save you the most money.

Reason 1 for getting insurance: avoiding the risk of financial ruin from illness.

The primary function of health insurance, if not all insurance, is to pool the risk among many people, so that no single person is brought to ruin from an adverse event. Anything else that insurance offers is extra to the entire concept of insurance. Catastrophic care is a basic necessity for any plan. Your agent or insurance adviser should be able to help you with any questions about this aspect of health insurance. Many states have insurance commissions and laws that assure minimum standards. Contact your state commission to see if they have a brochure or web page outlining those standards. Understand that you might want to go above those minimum standards for catastrophic care.

Helping you define your personal choice about the amount of catastrophic insurance you want is not really the purpose of this article, but some of the things. Many have high lifetime maximum benefit payments, also referred to as "caps," between $1 million and $3 million. Once the cap is reached, your insurance company will not pay for any medical expenses and your health insurance policy will become void. Also, it should be noted that most catastrophic health insurance plans do not cover pregnancy, and other plans do not cover maternity care for a full year after your effective date.

Reason 2 for getting insurance: saving money

Can insurance save you money? Acquiring insurance through your employer, who essentially buys in bulk, will almost surely provide a savings over buying it yourself. The present expectation of low-deductible, low co-pay insurance began during World War II, when there was a shortage of workers, and, to prevent wage competition, there was a cap put on wages that could be paid. Employers began to offer insurance with more and more and more benefits to attract workers, and the value of the employer-offered insurance was further enhanced when employers' contributions for healthcare were considered as pre-tax dollars. In other words, if your employer pays for insurance, you are not taxed on the cost of that insurance as income.

If you are self-employed, in most situations you lack the bulk purchase benefit, although organizations of self employed persons may offer some benefits. You may, however, have other possibilities for tax savings. Again, ask your agent, accountant or financial adviser for clarification.

But the more complex question into which we will be looking is - can you save money by increasing your deductible or co-pay? You will certainly have a lower monthly payment, or keep more money in your paycheck, but will that help you achieve your other goals, protection from financial insolvency, achieving security, and keeping healthy?

Health savings accounts - HSA's, as they are known - allow you to put a percentage of the value of your insurance deductible into a tax-deductible account that can be used for whatever health costs you have, from recommended nutritional supplements to dental care, and includes most forms of medical care, including chiropractic, acupuncture and some other alternatives. And, particularly if you are fairly healthy, the dramatic savings you will have in insurance premiums can outweigh the cost of healthcare you will purchase out of what you put into your HSA. What you don't spend you keep; like a retirement account, it can accrue interest and dividends tax-free and can be passed to your beneficiaries. Many employers offer this option as well. We will go more deeply into this in part 4.

The savings (or extra expenses) you will realize when you lower the amount you pay for insurance, however, will be based on how you actually use healthcare, how disciplined you are and how you choose to commit to your health.

Here are some things to begin thinking about now.


  1. Simply having insurance, no matter how high the deductible is, may entitle you to discounts. Another personal story: I have a $5,000 deductible on my insurance but when I went to get a $1,400 MRI for my broken ankle last year, which I had to pay myself, I was only charged the insurance rate of $720 because of the agreement the radiologist had with the insurance company, even though I was paying out of pocket.

  2. How do you actually use your healthcare? Are you a person that goes to the doctor once every couple of years, or do you go every time you get the flu? Do you believe in prescriptions as a way to keep healthy, or do you do tend to exercise, do yoga, and take herbs and nutrients to keep healthy? Do you mostly stay with medical doctors for your care, or do you go in for alternative medicine?

  3. Do you have conditions for which you use expensive prescription drugs regularly? (If yes, are you happy with your situation or would you like to look into alternatives?)

  4. Are you a person who likes to take charge of your health, and make your own decisions? Do you research your condition yourself, or do you like to just let the doctor tell you what to do?

While different insurances may have different formulas, your choice of insurance plans is about much more than money, it can actually reflect and support your personal philosophy of health.

Benefits of the One Plan Health Insurance Health Plan


Planning ahead for your future is easier said than done, especially when it comes to making sure that your future health is in good hands, and unfortunately many South Africans believe that proper health care is far out of their reach, and financial bracket.

But worry no more, as One Plan Health Insurance is aiming to prove this perception wrong by offering affordable and comprehensible health care to all South Africans. And with various plans available there is sure to be one to suite your needs and your pocket.

Here is a look at the comprehensive Health Plan from One Plan Health Insurance.

What the One Plan Health Insurance Health Plan Offers You

For only R 245 a month a single member on the One Plan Health Insurance Health Plan will receive R8?210 worth of cover per year. This includes doctor and dentist visits, scripted medication, repeat scripted medication, radiology, pathology and maternity and pre-birth care.

A couple can enjoy all of these benefits for only R 490 and a couple with one child will only have to pay R680 to ensure that their entire family is covered.

Under this plan you will also enjoy great eye care benefits, including a frame, comprehensive eye test and specially cut lenses. You will also enjoy the benefits of the Personal Protection Program, which means that in the case of crime related traumas you will be able to receive telephonic or face to face counselling, trauma related legal assistance and in the case of domestic violence you will have access to shelter facilities.

You will also be covered in the case of accidental exposure to HIV and will be give two free blood tests and 31 days free anti-retroviral or prophylactic treatment. This means that the One Plan Health Insurance Health Plan covers you and your family in the vent of almost any medical issue.

And by using your Onecard you will have your benefits paid directly to your card, where you will be able to use it at any medical facility.

Who Will Benefit from the One Plan Health Insurance Health Plan?

With the very competitive price of the One Plan Health Insurance Health Plan everyone under the age of 65 years will be able to benefit from the cover that it provides.

A value added bonus to all One Plan Health Insurance members is that you will get 24 hour access to their emergency helpline, and in the event of a justifiable emergency the insured member will be transported by ambulance to the nearest medical facility.

Furthermore all members enjoy the amazing deals, specials, discounts and goodies on offer at the OneLifestyle Online Mall. This online mall provides members the opportunity to take advantage of amazing online deals exclusive to One Plan Health Insurance members. And with over 300 different brands on offer you will be spoilt for choice to keep yourself happy and smiling all year round.

Back Pain During Pregnancy


What Happens During Pregnancy?

Back Pain During Pregnancy is mainly due the changes that the woman's body will undergo. When a women becomes pregnant, a lot of physical changes and alterations in the endocrine system occur, which prepare her body for the growing foetus.

These changes can also lead to joint and spine problems, due to the dramatic change in the pregnant woman's posture. There are pelvic changes, the protruding abdomen and increased Lumbar curve together with the increased weight gain, put pressure on the pregnant woman's skeletal structure.

All of these factors can make pregnant women more prone to spine and pelvic misalignment, leading to back pain, lower back pain or even sciatic pain.

What is Chiropractic Care?

Chiropractic is a manual therapy, which primarily works on the spine and pelvis of the body. Either through accident or injury, poor posture, or postural changes during pregnancy, the body can become misaligned,(a misalignment is when a joint of the body has moved slightly out of its correct natural alignment.).

As the spine protects the spinal cord, misalignment here, or in the pelvis can have a direct effect on the nerves, which may become pinched or trapped and therefore cause back pain.

Chiropractic through specific adjustments maintains the correct alignment of the body, spine and pelvis. This in turn helps to ensure that the body's nerve supply works efficiently, freeing the patient from back pain, or any discomfort caused by misalignment.

Chiropractic care is suitable for many individuals, including infants and children and even pregnant women are reaping the benefits. Once the mum to be is in the second trimester of her pregnancy, i.e., anytime after the first three months, Chiropractic care is safe.

Mc Timoney Chiropractic.

Mc Timoney Chiropractors are trained to deal with pregnant patients and adjust their equipment as necessary to suit the pregnant lady's requirements. The Mc Timoney Technique is a very gentle Holistic process, which makes it particularly suitable for women in this special and delicate state. Also the technique is easily adapted to allow the patient to reap the full benefit of treatment while avoiding any unnecessary pressure on the abdomen.

Treating Symptoms.

Regular visits to a Mc Timoney Chiropractor will keep the Mum to Be in correct skeletal alignment, while the Chiropractor will also give her plenty of advice on posture, lifting and bending during pregnancy.

This treatment is gentle and effective and will ensure that the Pregnant Woman will maintain correct spinal and pelvic alignment and flexibility. This will enable the woman to have a comfortable and enjoyable pregnancy free from back pain and discomfort, while it also ensures that the pelvis maintains correct alignment for an easier delivery.

Mc Timoney Chiropractic care during pregnancy can eliminate many problems such as sciatica, low back pain, headaches, and mid-back and rib pain.

Roma Burke DC AMC MMCAI

Deer Park Chiropractic & Massage Clinic.

Best Compiled Tips For Pain Management During Pregnancy!


During pregnancy, labor pains are unbearable for many women, especially those enjoying luxurious lifestyles. The pregnant lady is between life and death at the time of delivery. Any untoward incidence can happen if proper care is not taken to manage the labor. Nowadays, lots of women experience pain throughout the nine months and more precisely at the time of child birth. Mostly, pains in the stomach, back, and legs happen frequently. The lifestyle of the lady contributes a lot to the frequent occurrence of the back pain and early labor.

Take Precautions
The doctor suggests you numerous recommendations and remedies for taking care of these discomforts during different pregnancy stages. It is always better to take precautions rather than painkiller pills during such circumstances. It is widely acknowledged that women that lead luxurious lifestyle experience more labor pains than those who adequately do a workout daily. So, make a habit to do small and less tiresome exercises on daily basis. Sometimes, the inexperienced nurses take these pains as true labor pains and create a much miserable conditions for both the child and the mother. Not every pain is an indication of the child birth and hence, you should carefully manage the pains with respect to the time and accordingly involve the hospital staff.

Understand and Evaluate Pains
The actual labor pain starts form the spine or back and spreads all around. The fake labor pain emerges from the abdomen and is irregular. It is of utmost importance to evaluate the pains during the pregnancy. There are several reasons that attribute to a difficult delivery of the child. The false labor is one of them. The untrained nurses and hospital staff misjudge the type of the pain and create unwarranted tense situations for the whole family. It is very crucial to evaluate the correlation between the type of pain and the pregnancy stage before coming to any conclusion.

Avoid These Factors For Easy Delivery
Some important factors that relate directly to a tiresome and difficult child birth are listed here;
1. If you feel constipation, then it can lead to troubles during the delivery of the child. So, you should take remedies for treatment of constipation.
2. The urinary bladder should be empty. If you feel like urinating then do so as often as you wish.
3. The size and position of the head of the child in the womb is also one of the factors that determine the level of pains that you will experience during the delivery.

In the condition of actual labor, you should walk slowly in the room. This is going to benefit you a lot in bearing the pain. This exercise facilitates the easy delivery of the child and considerably relieves you from the back pain.

In order to deliver the baby with minimal discomfort, it is advisable that every day of the pregnancy be managed carefully and enthusiastically.

Thursday, September 19, 2013

Coconut Water Benefits: Healthy Help During Pregnancy


Coconut water provides many benefits for health-conscious people. Pregnant women especially can drink this pure liquid, which is high in minerals and vitamins and might help alleviate some of the challenges that occur during pregnancy.

Staying hydrated, which means drinking plenty of good fluids, is crucial during pregnancy to keep your body systems flowing. Coconut water is the purest liquid next to water, filled with natural ingredients, low in sugar, and without chemicals or preservatives.

Known as a perfect isotonic liquid, coconut water will mesh with your cells easily, keeping fluid levels up and toxins excreted more efficiently. CW is high in potassium, magnesium, and other minerals, which balances your body into a more alkaline and healthy state.

What else can coconut water do to help your pregnancy be the best it can be?

  • Weight gain- CW is low in calories and high in nutrients. It beats sweetened fruit juices and empty-calorie soda in keeping weight gain down from junk calories.

  • Heartburn- Oh, the scourge of pregnant women everywhere! Coconut water soothes your digestive system, neutralizing the acidity with its alkalizing properties.

  • Nausea and vomiting-In many countries, CW is the antidote to the vomiting that results from malaria, dengue fever, and typhoid. If it works on those serious illnesses, imagine how it can help with "morning sickness."

  • Urinary tract infections- Coconut water, in its isotonic state, cleanses the systems of your body, flushing toxins out as a natural diuretic. The more you drink, the more toxins will leave your body, which can help prevent UTI's.

  • Constipation- Drinking small amounts of CW will act as a very mild laxative. Avoiding constipation during pregnancy is definitely something to rejoice about!

  • Strengthen immune system- Every healthy thing you do for yourself will be relayed to your baby. Coconut water is rich with lauric acid that has anti-viral and anti-bacterial properties. This can help prevent acquiring infections and makes your immune system, and that of your baby, stronger.

Drinking healthful water from coconuts in moderation every day will keep you hydrated, boost those needed electrolytes, and cool you off from those hormones flashes rushing through your body.

Pregnancy is such a wonderful gift and an important job for your body to undertake. Only put healthy, nutritional food and drinks into your body during baby-making time. Your body is working for two so soothe its demands with healthy coconut water.

As always, check with your doctor before starting any new foods and drinks, since every pregnancy is different and may require specific care.

5 Top Tips For Avoiding Stretch Marks on Your Stomach After Pregnancy


Gaining weight, piles, a bad back, varicose veins and stretch marks are just a few of the many potential side effects of pregnancy. Combined with a massive change of body shape and the wobbly appearance of your stomach after pregnancy and it's no surprise that many women suffer from baby blues or full blown postnatal or postpartum depression.

Whilst many of these changes are inevitable and out of your control, there are some things you can do to alleviate a number of the potential problems of pregnancy.

Avoiding stretch marks on your stomach during pregnancy is one of the things you may be able to influence. Experts are divided on this issue, so there is no conclusive evidence on either side to say that stretch marks can or can't be avoided.

Basically it all boils down to caring for yourself properly at a time when you need to be as healthy and as strong as possible. The following tips will give you the best chances of avoiding stretch marks: -

  • Make sure you eat a well balanced diet. If you minimise the amount of weight you gain during pregnancy you can help to offset the chances of suffering from stretch marks all over the body. This doesn't mean starting any type of diet, just simply following the usual rules of healthy eating. Eat well most of the time and allow yourself the occasional treat. Keep an eye on what you are eating, don't throw all consciousness of a healthy diet out of the window just because your shape is changing anyway.

  • If you regularly moisturise your skin at least once a day using a cream containing vitamin A or vitamin E, applied by hand or using a massage glove you will help to improve the circulation and the elasticity of the skin. Applying the cream may help to stop the skin becoming too dry and therefore avoiding stretch marks forming.

  • Drink plenty of water to ensure that your skin retains its moisture levels, experts suggest at least 2 litres a day. Dry and dehydrated skin has been shown to form stretch marks far more easily than well hydrated skin.

  • Taking a multi vitamin or a vitamin formula specifically designed for pregnant women may help to cover any deficiencies you may have, again helping to improve the quality of your skin.

  • Regular activity will also help to improve your circulation, which means the skin will be supplied with the nutrients it needs much faster and the increase in rich oxygenated blood from your lungs will also improve its quality. Exercise will also burn off any calories you don't need which would otherwise be stored as body fat that stretches the skin forcing stretch marks to appear. Not high impact exercise or anything that is too intense, but gentle activities such as walking and swimming are ideal.

Avoiding stretch marks may or may not be possible, but many women who haven't been affected by them swear it was the action they took during pregnancy that was the reason for them not getting them.

If you want to feel happy about your body and stomach after pregnancy then it makes sense to take any steps possible to avoid the many side effects your body is subjected to over the course of the nine months and beyond. Not only will you benefit but the health and well being of your new baby will also be improved dramatically.

Recognizing Depression in Men


Jason reluctantly came to my office for marital therapy. His wife insisted that he attend or she would be calling a divorce lawyer. His ambivalence about being in my office came across loud and clear. Jason did not speak unless directly asked a question. Even then, his answer was as short and staccato as possible. He slumped as far into the arm of the couch as he was able and gave no retort or act of affection in response to his wife's tears or distress.

"He comes home from work--and I know he's tired--but all he wants to do is sit in his recliner and watch hours of television," Jason's wife complained to me through her tears. "He has trouble sleeping and worries constantly about what is going on at work. But work is where all his energy goes. I feel like I don't matter at all to him any more, because he never wants to do anything with me or even hold my hand. I don't even remember the last time we had sex!"

I looked at Jason. No response. When asked to respond, he acknowledged that yes, work does take up all his time and energy, and yes, he is tired every day, but no, it's not that he doesn't care about his wife. No further explanation. Just more slumping and staring off into space.

At first glance, many therapists might take Jason's distancing from his wife as a sign that he is having an affair or wants out of the marriage. At the very least, it appears he resents her insistence that he come to therapy and maybe he is being passive aggressive to punish her or make her change her mind about seeking marital help.

Jason is a busy man, a high-paid executive with a lot of responsibility. He manages teams of people and can handle huge budgets and deadlines. Some therapists might see Jason as arrogant, maybe narcissistic, and that he doesn't want to waste his valuable time in a therapist's office when there are more important things to accomplish with his life.

But digging a little deeper, I learned more about Jason. A few years back, when he was only in his 40s, Jason had a stroke. It was a long fight back to full health. During his recovery, his son got involved in drugs and was arrested and his father died. Jason, the oldest child in the family, took full responsibility for the funeral arrangements and settling the estate afterward. Jason was successful at his job, but more and more demands were being placed on him in the current tough economy and he was increasingly becoming unhappy at work. However, it would be difficult to walk away from a salary like his, especially since Jason and his wife recently bought their dream house. Jason felt "boxed in."

So, let's look at Jason again. He was feeling overwhelmed and stressed, he wasn't sleeping well, he was withdrawing from others including his wife of 28 years, he had lost interest in sex, he had given up his passion for golf, and he was zoning out in front of the TV every night. Maybe Jason is not narcissistic nor passive aggressive. It is possible that Jason is depressed.

The symptoms of depression are:


  • feelings of sadness or emptiness most of the day, nearly every day

  • markedly diminished interest in activities once found pleasurable

  • significant weight loss or weight gain

  • marked increase or decrease in need for sleep

  • feeling agitated or irritated

  • decreased energy or feeling slowed or weighed down

  • feelings of worthlessness, powerlessness, helplessness

  • a false sense of guilt

  • unexplained aches and pains

  • inability to concentrate or focus or make decisions

  • recurring thoughts of death or suicide

Depression in men often goes undiagnosed because it can manifest itself differently in men than in women. For example, women will often withdraw into sleep, self-medicate with food, and will cry often, even several times daily. But men, typically still go to work and function pretty well on the job, but doing so saps all their energy. They often experience depression with irritation or agitation, not with tears, because men, in general, are socialized that crying is not "manly" or acceptable, but that anger is. Both depressed men and women might lose interest in sex, but again, our society leads us to believe that men will seek out sex at all costs. Therefore, when men withdraw from their wives sexually, we often think of infidelity, when in actuality, depression may be to blame.

A diagnosis of depression may be harder for men to accept about themselves than for women. It can be more difficult to get a man to talk to his doctor about medication or to seek out therapy. In Jason's case, he is used to being in charge and is highly respected on the job and in his community. He might be worried about the stigma of depression, which unfortunately seems worse for men than for women. He may even be fearful that a diagnosis could wreck his career. Jason, like many men, may think depression only happens to women and therefore, couldn't possibly be what is afflicting him.

But depression is an equal opportunist. It is an brain-chemistry illness that affects both men and women. Likewise, treatment is effective for both genders. Jason may hope that his depression will simply go away if he zones out enough in front of the TV after work, or if his wife would just stop making demands on him and find other people to occupy her time, or if his work load could just get a little lighter. It might be challenging for Jason to accept a diagnosis of depression. I hope not, because help is available for Jason and men like him.

7 Tips for Taking Care of a Pregnant Cat


Finding out that you have a pregnant cat is very exciting, but it also requires quite a bit of responsibility. While you are waiting to greet your cat's babies into the world, follow these tips to ensure optimal health for mother her offspring.

1) Keep her indoors

Pregnant cats that are left outside are exposed to more danger and are more vulnerable because they are carrying offspring. Also, you never want to let your pregnant feline stay outside in bad weather just in case she goes into labor.

2) Give her the right food

Cats need more nutrients when they are pregnant, especially calcium and protein. Lack of calcium can lead to something known as milk fever or eclampsia; it is a serious, life threatening condition which can occur in late pregnancy or birth as a result of blood calcium levels becoming dangerously depleted.

3) Keep her comfortable

You will want to make your cat has a comfy nest or bed. There are several ways to do so, but a box filled with newspaper or towels usually does the trick. Be sure that the bed is ready at least two weeks before she gives birth. Also, keep it in a location that is familiar to her.

4) Keep other cats away

Pregnant cats need their privacy. If you have other cats in your home, figure out a way to keep them isolated from each other to avoid problems.

5) Keep a close eye on your cat

This is necessary even when your cat isn't pregnant, however, as said above, pregnant felines are more vulnerable. You will want to be present when she gives birth so you can assist her, or bring her to the vet if needed.

6) Take her in for check-ups

An initial vet visit is important to confirm the pregnancy and to test for complications. Regular check-ups are necessary to make sure the pregnancy is normal and the kittens are healthy. The vet can also answer questions for you, give you tips specific to your cat as well as give you information on what to expect at the birth.

7) Use non-clumping litter for her litter box

It is common for cats to give birth in their own litter box. This can be unsafe if the litter clumps because the mother may refuse to clean her newborns-possibly causing the babies to drown in their own fluid. Non-clumping litter will help to keep her and her offspring clean. You will want to try to avoid this situation all together so help your cat get familiar with a different birthing place.

Following all of these steps will keep you on the right track for providing your cat with a healthy pregnancy. Do some research into the topic of birthing so you're ready when the big day arrives. Remember to ask your veterinarian if you have any questions, or if something doesn't seem right to you during your cat's pregnancy.

Understanding Teenage Pregnancy


Over half a million teens become parents every year in America. Teen parents can range in age from as young as 12 years old to 19 years old. Teen pregnancy constitutes 20% of all unplanned pregnancy every year. And despite the massive campaigns carried out by the government and various health and social groups, more and more teenagers have become "unexpected" parents.

When teens become parents it is critical to their well-being that they find adequate resources to support their emotional, educational, parental development. The most important factor to consider is that you are now responsible for both your life and your child's life. Your awareness of this two-fold responsibility will improve the likelihood that you and your child will experience a better quality of life.

One barrier young parents face to improving their quality of life is not having access to the resources they need to support their emotional, physical, and mental growth and development.

Many teen parents experience feeling of shame and regret after they discover that they are pregnant. Some experience isolation from their friends and resentment for the loss of their teenage lifestyle. It is also very common for teen parents to feel afraid and alone. You must remember however that while your feelings are valid they may not be healthy for you or your baby.

Teenage mothers who don't get support from their former partners and family are less likely to finish their college education. Statistics also show that only 38% of teenage mothers are able to finish high school and only 2% graduate from college. Further, it can be predicted that a child born of a teenage mother is more likely to live poorer when they become adults and continue the same cycle.

However asking for support and researching resources can help teen parents turn these statistics around. Your parents are a great source of support. Your parents can give you advice on how to care for your baby during and after pregnancy. Your parents can also share some of the financial burden of becoming a teen parent by allowing you to continue living at home.

A high school guidance counselor can help teen parents process the feelings and stress that will arise during pregnancy and after the baby is born. In addition, there are several books that discuss best parenting practices. These books can provide teen parents with a wide range of solutions on how to discipline, feed, and raise a child.

The final point is that there are authoritative resources like HelpTeenParents that provide resources for teen fathers and mothers to get the information they need to build a better life for themselves and their children. Teens should be well informed about the outcomes of their actions and web resources can do a better job of helping teens to understand what to expect when they are expecting a baby.

Pregnancy Planning Checklist - Get Ready to Have a Baby


Here is a pregnancy planning check list to help you get ready to have a baby! Generally, you do prepare for the major happenings in your life such as school, college or even retirement. In the same way, pregnancy planning is a must before you decide to have a baby. A baby can change your life to a great extent. There is a lot of planning - physical, emotional and financial, which needs to be done for a smooth future for your baby and you.

The Decision To Become A Parent

This is perhaps the most important decision of a lifetime. So take advice from your physician, talk to friends and family about it and read a lot of books and magazines that will give you good advice on planning for a healthy pregnancy.

A Preconception Visit to Your Physician

As a part of your pregnancy planning check list, a visit to your physician is a must. He will do a thorough medical checkup and check if there is any family history of illnesses. He will check you for Sexually Transmitted Infections (STI). He may advice you to stop taking any over-the-counter medication. If it's been over a year since you've been trying to get a baby, he may advice you to take a fertility test. There is no cause for worry and there is every chance that you might conceive. He will also give you vaccinations to immunize you against tetanus, hepatitis B and German measles.

Exposure to Hazardous Chemicals- If you or your partner have been exposed to hazardous chemicals, dry cleaning fluids, heavy metals, radiation or chemical fumes at work, this can be dangerous for the baby. You must take the physician's advice on whether you should continue to work in the same place or take up a new job.

Smoking Drugs and Alcohol- Say NO Today

Smoking, drugs and alcohol can harm your baby. Your baby may be born under-weight or be a preemie. He may also develop complications and birth defects. Research says there is a 64% increase in the chances of birth defects in children whose parents are smokers.

A Healthy Diet-Nourishment for You and the Baby

A healthy pregnancy diet with supplements of folic acid is essential for a mother-to-be. Folic Acid prevents birth defects of the spine and brain. Eat your meals regularly. Your meals should contain foods rich in iron, calcium and green leafy vegetables, citrus fruits and legumes. Fortified cereals are also good for you.

An Exercise Regimen- Eating Healthy is very good but you should also exercise regularly. Not very strenuous but exercises like walking, swimming or yoga can be of great help in bringing down your stress levels. Also needed are meditation and deep breathing exercises. These will help you stay calm and peaceful. Do what you enjoy doing, like reading or listening to music.

Family and Friends- This is the time to talk to family and friends to get their support. Sometimes a relationship may become too difficult to handle, especially when you get pregnant. You may be subjected to some form of abuse. Do not feel afraid to ask for help in such a situation from your local helpline or from friends.

Financial matters- It is important to be prepared financially for your baby. There will be an onslaught of bills once the baby is born. Go in for health insurance too. And save for the future-both yours and little one's.

Now with this pregnancy planning checklist in hand, you can manage your pre pregnancy planning in a better way for a wonderful start.

Wednesday, September 18, 2013

Post Natal Hair Loss - What Women During Pregnancy Should Know


For any woman who has had a child, pregnancy can be a great experience excluding of course the nauseating pain that comes with child birth, but then that is an aside considering they have just brought a brand new life into the world. The problem is the pain is not the only side effect of a pregnancy, there is some degree of hair loss involved which is more of a postnatal effect as is well known by many mothers. Somewhere around 50% of women will experience this hair loss at some point in time after child birth. This usually happens within a one to five months period after child birth whereby in or around the third month is where in most cases the effect is really felt. This of course is a very distasteful situation and extremely unnerving especially since this affects their looks and their mood. What is even worst is when the person is a new or even worst yet a young mother which increases their rate for postnatal depression and lowering their self esteem.

What is the cause?

Hormones! Just that, hormones, the increase and/or loss of hair when it comes to pregnant women and new mothers is usually due to the flux in the level of female hormones, which basically is known as estrogen. Within the term of pregnancy most women would experience an increase in their scalp hair, which is because at this time there is a surplus of estrogen being pumped around the body. This causes their metabolisms to be sped up and nutrients spread to everywhere in the body including the scalp causing the increase in scalp hair.

After child birth however is the complete opposite whereby there is a decrease in estrogen in the body to return the body to its normal levels that it was before the pregnancy therefore resulting in what we deem, hair loss. Basically since the extra nutrients in the scalp can not be provided by the hormones anymore there is nothing to support the increase in hair therefore the hair gained falls out. There are also other causes that add to pack when it relates to this type of hair loss like discontinuing the use of contraceptives, miscarriage, stillbirth, abortion and hormonal imbalance resulting from various reasons.

Most women fortunately do not have to worry considering this effect is only temporary and most come out of this problem without even taking any treatment for it since the body does the work for itself. There is however some cases whereby the hair loss continues after the predetermined period and becomes something to worry about especially if the person was already afflicted with very thin hair in the first place. No real need to worry though since there are treatment options available to help out in form of hair care and hair nutrition which are the major factors in promoting healthy hair after child birth.

Hair Care

Proper hair care has been found to be in this case a major helper in the restoration of the hair to a thicker and lusher growth. Some of these methods however should be avoided during this time though because they put too much stress on the scalp such as pigtails, cornrows, hair weaves and braids. Using tight hair rollers is also not recommended. The application of essential oils is also helpful as they promote healthy hair growth which may include lavender, neroli, patchouli and sandalwood. Shampoos and conditioners containing biotin and silica are also advisable options available. What should also be noted is that wet hair should not be rubbed hard since the hair is usually brittle at this time.

Nutrition

As with all others symptoms the body may experience a healthy diet is always the way to go and especially so for hair loss after pregnancy. Foods like fruit and vegetables are usually the most ideal for the promotion of healthy hair and growth. Also along with you doctor advice which he/she can advise you to a prescription of nutritional supplements which can include Vitamin B, Vitamin, C, Vitamin E and zinc which an excellent source of nutrients for the hair.

Hair Transplant - Understanding the Pros and Cons


Over the last couple of years hair transplant procedures have produced such dramatic results that people are choosing to do them with greater frequency. Many people feared getting the procedures in the past, because they were not well done. It was not uncommon to see obvious hair plugs on people who had undergone the procedure. Yet, there are still a few things about the process that are not widely known. Hopefully, these the answers to these questions will help you weight the pros and cons of hair transplantation.

How common is Hair Loss? Half of all American men will experience significant hair thinning. Unfortunately, females are not spared. Many women notice significant hair loss as they go through the menopausal change.

Are Hair Transplants Reversable? Some people believe that these surgical procedures are as easily reversed as removing a wig but this is not true. Keep in mind, many surgical procedures are necessary. Your head and hair will never look exactly the same.

How long does it take to recover after the procedure? A typical hair transplant surgery is very easy on the patient. However, this does not mean that you should get right back to your normal routine. Remember the scalp is a sensitive area and great care must be taken to keep it from getting infected.

How long before I'm done with the whole process? It is not uncommon for the whole process to take as long as one to two years. This represents a large investment of time and your should be prepare yourself appropiately. If you want to speed things up you may opt for a mega session. During a mega session thousands of grafts are added in one sitting.

What if I don't have a lot of hair to begin with? Along with hair transplant surgery, you may have to have other treatments so if you do not have enough hair, you cannot undergo the normal treatment. There are other surgeries that can help produce a similar result that can be used in conjunction. Of course, these procedures are usually far more painful.

Ok...How much is this going to cost me? Hair transplant treatments are not cheap. The price depends on the procedures you elect to have and the clinic you choose. It is not uncommon to pay $12,000 for a hair transplant. If this price is too steep you may want to try other methods to grow back your hair first. Stick to hair regrow products that contain ingredients evaluated by the FDA.

Health Insurance - Secrets to Affordable Health Insurance


When you are seeking affordable health insurance, you want to make sure that you have great coverage at an affordable monthly payment. Here are 5 secrets that can help you save money by making your health insurance and overall healthcare costs more affordable.

1. Get a discount health plan. The way this works is simple - you pay a little every month to get 20-40% discounts on the services you are provided when they are needed. Physicians within a discount health plan network have negotiated lower prices for office visits, checkups, and other medical procedures. So for example, if you have a medical procedure that costs $500, you will only have to come out of pocket for $300-400.

2. Start a Health Savings Account. A health or medical savings account (MSA) works like a bank account allotted to take care or medical expenses. First, you choose a healthcare plan with a very high deductible. This can range from $1700 to $2650 for an individual and $3500 to $5250 for a family. With a health savings account, you or your employer can deposit up to 75% percent of your deductible amount into it. The funds are held by a bank or your insurer and this money is free of income tax. Whenever you have a medical expense, your MSA can take care of your deductible. Your MSA can also be used to cover expenses that would not usually be covered by your insurance plan, like cosmetic procedures for instance. This account can be carried over between employers and can collect interest over time. It is important to note that this money can be used for non-medical expenses, however if it is, you will have to pay tax on it.

3. Drop maternity coverage. If you are not of child bearing age, or do not plan on having children at all, you may want to consider dropping your maternity coverage. Some plans do have an insurance rider that you can add on should you become pregnant, but it is not necessary to have that coverage in your plan the entire time. Maternity coverage can cost an additional $2500 a year so if you do not foresee a pregnancy happening, you could drop this coverage to save some money.

4. Check with your church. If you are a part of a congregation and there are several of you that are uninsured, you and your church members may be eligible for a group healthcare plan. The advantage is that most times group healthcare plans are cheaper than individual plans. You may find that you are not only helping yourself save money with a group plan, but other uninsured individuals just like you that are in need of affordable health insurance can save money too.

5. Use the power of the Internet. In our technology age, the world is literally at your fingertips. You should not have to settle for any insurance plan that does not meet your needs completely. Affordable health insurance plans are out there, and many plans can be customized to fit your life and lifestyle. There are websites ready to give you personalized quotes that you can compare for the best rate. Do not feel rushed or pressured into choosing something that is not right for you.

5 Very Early Symptoms of Pregnancy Help to Confirm Pregnancy Before Missed Periods


There are few very early symptoms of pregnancy. These symptoms start to show themselves in very early days of pregnancy. There are some women who only show one or two signs of pregnancy at the same time there are some other women who show all of these 5 very early symptoms of pregnancy.

Once a woman conceives it takes around 7 to 10 days to the fertilized egg to implant in the lining of the uterus. After this time period there are 5 top pregnancy signs that signal that a woman is pregnant.

Without putting into further delay let's dive in

Excessive Urination: This is a telltale and earliest pregnancy sign. Excessive urination can be the result of any other problem like diabetes or the reaction of some medication; but it is good to consider pregnancy as one of the possible cause.

Spotting: Spotting in the late pregnancy is of great concern and must be reported to the doctor at earliest. Light spotting in the early days signals pregnancy. The color of this vaginal spotting ranges from light pink to dark brown.

Missed Period: This is the most well-known and famous sign of pregnancy. It is the clearest indicator of pregnancy. It is good to keep in mind that sometimes a woman can also miss her period because of some reason other than pregnancy. So it is only an indicator not the final diagnosis.

Nausea and Intense Cramping: This is the next obvious, well-known a clear indicator of pregnancy. Again nausea and cramping could be because of number of reasons. Nausea and cramping is not only the most famous sign pf pregnancy but at the same time it is the most misunderstood and clear sign of pregnancy. Here is not any formula that can tell that a woman id pregnant. Only the rule that applies here is that more signs of pregnancy signals brighter chances of being pregnant.

Exhaustion And Lack Of Energy: This is a sign of pregnancy that is knitted with pregnancy. This exhaustion is different from the routine fatigued feelings. The key to assess the pregnancy related lack of energy is that it is noticeable and dramatic.

No matter how much signs of pregnancy a woman is experiencing, a pregnancy test is required to confirm her pregnancy. Sometimes even the home pregnancy test can give a false negative result. In such a case it is recommended to rest for few days and then check again.

Understanding the Care Quality Commission's Service Types


All health and social care providers are required to register with the Care Quality Commission to demonstrate that they are meeting the standards laid out by the CQC. The standards that you are required to meet and are expected to demonstrate before you can gain registration, vary depending on the service type that you as an organisation, individual or partnership, are classified as.

The Care Quality Commission has defined 28 different service types in all and it is essential that you determine which 'type' or 'types' you are classified as before you begin the CQC registration process. Failing to identify the correct categories could mean that you fail to realise certain standards that are expected of you, which in turn could result in your application being rejected. It is important to note that you may fall into more than one category and in this instance you need to address all of the standards defined within all of the categories that you fall within.

The following details all of the service types available, their associated codes, as used by the CQC, and an example of the kind of provider that may fall within each of the categories:

1. Acute services - ACS

  • Maternity hospitals

2. Hyperbaric chamber services - HBC

  • Type 1 hyperbaric chambers

3. Hospice services - HPS

  • Adult hospices

4. Long-term conditions services - LTC

  • Complex care and support provided to individuals with physical or neurological illnesses that are unlikely to improve

5. Hospital services for people with mental health needs, and/or learning disabilities, and/or problems with substance misuse - MLS

  • Child and adolescent mental health providers

6. Prison healthcare services - PHS

  • Young offenders institutions

7. Rehabilitation services - RHS

  • Rehabilitation units

8. Residential substance misuse treatment / rehabilitation services - RSM

  • Crisis intervention units

9. Community healthcare services - CHC

  • District nursing

10. Doctors consultation services - DCS

  • Slimming clinics

11. Doctors treatment services - DTS

  • Travel vaccination centres

12. Dental services - DEN

  • NHS Dental practice

13. Diagnostic and/or screening services - DSS

  • Health screening centres

14. Community-based services for people with a learning disability - LDC

  • Community learning disabilities teams

15. Mobile doctors services - MBS

  • GP out-of-hours providers

16. Community-based services for people with mental health needs - MHC

  • Community mental health teams

17. Community-based services for people who misuse substances - SMC

  • Community drug and alcohol teams

18. Urgent care services - UCS

  • Walk-in clinic

19. Care home services with nursing - CHN

  • Nursing home

20. Care home services without nursing - CHS

  • Residential home

21. Specialist college services - SPC

  • Personal care and accommodation provided by a college for young people with learning and/or physical disabilities

22. Domiciliary care services including those provided for children - DCC

  • Domiciliary care agency

23. Extra care housing services - EXC

  • Care provided within purpose built accommodation

24. Shared lives (Formerly adult placement) - SHL

  • Care provided by a trained individual, couple or family, inside or outside of the home

25. Supported living services - SLS

  • Care provided to a person living in their own home

26. Ambulance services - AMB

  • Patient transport

27. Blood and transport services - BTS

  • NHS Blood and transport

28. Remote clinical advice services - RCA

  • NHS Direct

The examples given above are by no means an exhaustive list and the range of organisations that need to be regulated by the Care Quality Commission is extensive, so if you provide any form of health or social care services then you will almost certainly fall within one of the above service types.

What Recurrent Disability Means for Pregnant Women


Short term disability insurance is a great program for pregnant women to have. It covers mom's normal labor and delivery helping to create maternity leave pay, allowing mom to stay at home bonding with baby without worrying as much about how to pay all those bills. It also covers leave due to pregnancy complications. In this article we will explore the significance of recurrent disability language as it applies to pregnancy and maternity.

Every insurance policy contains important definitions inside the policy and/or in the outline of coverage that your agent will present at time of application. Most short term disability insurance policies will contain language describing a recurrent disability - something that pops up very often for women during pregnancy and maternity situations.

Recurrent Disability Definition

A recurrent disability describes situations where a person is disabled temporarily, returns to work, and then becomes disabled again shortly thereafter for the same or a related condition. This may arise if your doctor orders you to take bed rest early on in your pregnancy, and then allows you to return to work before giving birth. Should this situation arise you will need to know how your insurer handles a recurrent disability.

A recurrent disability will either be treated as a new or a continuation. If it is classified as new you will have to meet a new elimination period, but would reset the clock on your entire benefit period. If it is classified as a continuation, the poles are reversed: there is no new elimination period, but the previous disability would eat into your benefit period.

You policy might have language such as "A recurrent disability will be treated as a continuation of the previous disability, not a new disability, if you have returned to work for less than six months."

Let's look at two examples to clarify how this works. Suppose you have a policy with a two week elimination period, a $3,000 monthly benefit, and a 12 month elimination period. In both examples we look at a bed rest pregnancy disability that last two months due to complications, followed by a c-section delivery. The most important difference is the timing.

Pregnancy Complications With Elimination Period Reset

In scenario one, your doctor orders bed rest for complications at the end of month one of your pregnancy, and you return to work at the end of month three. In scenario two you leave work at month six, return to work at month eight. In both cases you give birth a few days past month nine via c-section which qualifies you for an eight week maternity benefit - less the elimination period.

In scenario one, your first leave ended more than six months before you give birth. Your two week elimination period would be invoked twice rather than just once. Your maternity leave benefit would be a net of six weeks - or $4,168. On the plus side you would still retain more than ten months of income protection in case postpartum disorders prevent your return to work.

Pregnancy Complications with Benefit Period Reset

In scenario two the gap is under six months. This will be treated as a continuation, and your maternity leave benefit will be higher: a net of eight weeks of benefit - or $5,581. On the down side, should postpartum disorders keep you out of work longer, your remaining benefit period will have shrunk to eight months.

Tuesday, September 17, 2013

10 Tips to Shake the Blues


We all have days now and then when we feel like nothing is going our way. It is as if one thing after another is coming at us and there is no escape. Fortunately, this is a normal part of life and just as our problems come, they usually get resolved and we resume our normal lives. Here are a few tips to help you avoid letting the blues dominate your life and to help shake them off when they get the best of you.

1. Documentation - Keeping a journal can be very helpful for identifying patterns by reviewing your feelings, sleeping patterns, and health concerns. Maybe you end up feeling down every time you go to a certain place, or see a certain person, or maybe when the moon is full. Having a record can help you determine what changes might make a difference in your life.

2. Companionship - Who consistently helps to lift your spirits and work out your problems? Think about which relationships keep you moving in the right direction. It may be only one or two individuals, but it is important to maintain relationships with good companions who help you stay on track.

3. Exercise - When you exercise, your body releases hormones that not only make you feel good mentally, but actually improve your health and extend your life. You don't have to become a fitness enthusiast; just a half an hour a day of simple exercises in your living room can greatly improve your mood and energy level. Why not give it a try?

4. Listen up! - Who do you find insightful and energizing? Why not spend some of your time listening to motivational or inspirational recordings? Be careful with your time. Try to fit in lecture or book on tape that will help you learn more about a way of life that will give you new hope.

5. Nature - Something about fresh air, sunshine and nature soothes us. Taking time to look at the details of flowers in the park or leaves on a tree in your neighborhood is a great way to distract yourself from the troubles of the day and it acts as a reminder that we are a small part of a larger system.

6. Take turns - When you are feeling overwhelmed, why not go out and sit somewhere with your close friend? Just having the opportunity to talk about your issues with another person can be all you need to resolve an issue you once felt was too big to tackle.

7. Help others - This tip is 100% guaranteed! When you do something to help someone else, it will make you feel fantastic. There are so many possibilities: from helping your neighbor paint the house to cleaning up an elderly couple's yard, or helping an illiterate person learn to read, just spending a few hours of your time here and there can make a all the difference to you and to them.

8. Redirect - What types of situations bring you down? Too much noise, more work than you can manage, or even more challenging: dealing with a difficult relationship in your life. One way to better manage these situations is to consistent direct or redirect conversations to safe topics (such as the weather, your pets, or cooking). By sticking to safe topics, we can avoid minimize difficult situations.

9. Fun - Do you have a hobby that you really enjoy? Identify a few activities that lift your spirits and make time for them regularly. When we maintain a balance between our life's responsibilities and pleasures, we can begin to see our cup as half full more often than not.

10. Good food - You can barely get through the day without seeing some type of message that tells you to maintain a healthy diet. If you have not yet jumped on this bandwagon, consider working your favorite fresh fruits and vegetables into your current mix. Whether it is a veggie dip or a Caesar Salad, increasing the amount of foods that come straight from the garden is a sure way to increase your energy and improve your overall health.

Why Do People Need Disability Insurance?


Many people do not realize what would happen if they become disabled and lose their ability to work. Statistics show that approximately 43 percent of individuals between the ages 35 and 65 will become disabled for 90 days or more. If you lose your ability to work and make a living, disability insurance will help you pay your bills, save for retirement, and make your mortgage loan payments. This type of coverage will replace up to 60 percent of your gross income in case you become disabled. Supplemental plans will cover 70 to 80 percent of your salary.

This type of insurance is specifically designed for working men and women. Since accidents and illnesses occur when you expect the least, collecting disability benefits will help you maintain your standard of living and pay for ongoing expenses. Studies have shown that over 30 million Americans between the ages of 21 and 64 are unable to work because of a long-term illness or injury. In order to receive disability benefits, you need to be a benefit-eligible employee or have a disabling condition that qualifies for benefits.

Long term insurance provides coverage for catastrophic illness or injury. This type of policy kicks in once your short-term disability plan runs out. Insurance companies offer policies that vary in the length of payout. Some of these insurance plans will pay out for up to 10 years, while others will pay out benefits until age 65.

As its name suggests, short term disability insurance offers coverage for a limited period of time. The average duration of benefits is six months. The number of weeks you are eligible for disability benefits depends in how many years you worked for your current employer. Hawaii, Rhode Island, California, New York, and New Jersey require employers to provide short-term disability insurance. Short term policies usually have waiting periods ranging from 0 to 14 days. If you purchase long term disability insurance, you will have to wait 30 to 720 days before receiving any benefits. Long term coverage is typically more expensive that short term disability insurance because it covers extended health care at home, assisted-living facilities, or nursing homes.

If you are self employed, consider buying an individual plan. Many companies provide disability insurance online. All you need to do is to search for a well established insurance website and then complete a brief form with relevant details such as your age, gender, health condition, occupation, and income. Based on the information provided, you will receive disability insurance quotes from several companies. After choosing three to five quotes, compare them side-by-side. Select a policy that offers comprehensive coverage at reasonable rates. Keep in mind that many insurance providers offer discounts of up to 40 percent for buying coverage through their websites.

Prenatal and Pregnancy Belly Button Rings


Diamonds are a girl's best friend, right? Every girl loves a little bling; especially now-a-days since women are getting some type of piercing done every day. One of the most popular piercings is the belly button ring. There are many women getting bling on their naval and it attracts the eye of many people so it is becoming a trend around the world.

Not only are the rates of belly button piercings going up but the rates of birth are as well. People are having more and more children each day. So where do pregnancy and naval rings connect? The fact that pregnant women are either getting their belly buttons pierced or they already are pierced. Could this be dangerous for mothers? Or worse, could it be harmful to their babies?

Many women who have their belly button pierced fear becoming pregnant someday. They wonder whether their fetus will be in any harm at all or if their own bodies will be in danger. Although people are scared of the dangers, it is normal to have a belly button piercing throughout a whole pregnancy. However, there are a few misconceptions of being a pregnant woman with a naval piercing.

Many women who wear belly button rings assume that when they become pregnant, they will have to remove their piercing when their belly starts to expand. Doctors say, though, that there are no valid medical reasons for a pregnant woman to remove her piercing. If a woman starts to feel uncomfortable later in the pregnancy they should know that it is okay to remove the jewelry as long as safety regulations are followed.

Research at the March of Dimes has found that if women get their belly button pierced while pregnant, it might not heal properly due to the constant change of shape in the belly. Another safety precaution to be aware of is the cleanliness of the needle being used. For example, if the needle is not sterile it could pass an infection into your body like HIV or Hepatitis B and it could be passed on to the fetus as well. If pregnant women do decide to get belly button rings, they are advised to double check with the person doing the belly button piercing that all tools being used are sterile and make sure that they are aware that the woman is pregnant.

There are a few risks of maternity piercings. The major one is infection. If the piercing is not taken care of the way it should be or if it is brand new, the risk of infection is much higher. Signs of infection include puss oozing from the piercing, skin being of a higher temperature around the piercing, swelling or redness. If you think you have an infection, call your doctor right away; don't wait until it's too late!

If discomfort becomes a problem during the pregnancy, maternity belly button rings are an option. These are made of a medical-grade plastic material. The plastics are flexible so they are great for women who have rapidly growing stomachs during their journey through pregnancy. If both the plastic and medal piercings are uncomfortable, remove the jewelry and wait until after the baby is born.

The most important thing about maternity belly button rings is yours and the baby's safety. That is always your number one priority, now that you are carrying a child and entering motherhood. If you don't feel right about getting a piercing done while pregnant or if you have some concerns, contact your doctor immediately. If you feel like you should know more, you have the right to. Ask your doctor anything and make sure that she will give you the straight facts and not her opinion. You want to know that your child will be in safety when entering the world of today's society. Find all the information today and don't be afraid to ask your doctor anything.

Relationship Chat Rooms


If you are going through a tough time in your life, you probably want someone to talk to about your problems. It can be hard to find people who can be there for you whenever you need a shoulder or an ear. Because of this problem, many people needing help, advice, or just someone to listen without judgment turn to places online like relationship chat rooms to get what they need. These people start out as strangers, but that is sometimes a huge bonus for those that need support. These can often be like local support groups, but end up being so much more.

Relationship chat rooms have sprung up everywhere on the Internet. They cover all types of relationships. Those that gravitate towards these sites are going through divorce, separation, loss of child custody, the death of a spouse or family member, job loss, or simple blowups with friends that are devastating to them. Some coming to these rooms have just experienced infidelity in their relationship. All of these types of relationships are different, but the pain is still the same. Life changes dramatically when personal and professional relationships fall apart, and loneliness is often a huge part of that. These chat rooms offer support and friendship when it is needed the most.

The advantages of these chat rooms are many. One of the best parts about finding relationship chat rooms that you can use to talk with others is that there is usually always someone online. That means you don't have to worry about calling a friend in the middle of the night and waking them up. You can just log onto your relationship chat rooms to see who is online. You are not the only one that can not sleep. Someone else is needing the same thing that you are, so it can be easy to find someone to talk to no matter what time of day or night you are in need.

There are a few disadvantages as well. Not everyone in these relationship chat rooms are going to be nice people. Some are bitter and angry, and they just want someone to yell at or someone to soak up their frustrations. If you run into such a person, you can choose to be patient while understanding where their anger is coming from, or logging off to come back later when that person is no longer there. You can also get bad advice, as others are in the same spot you are and may not be thinking clearly.

It is best to navigate these relationship chat rooms carefully while taking advantage of all that they have to offer. Take advice with a grain of salt. Listen, but do not act on what you hear until you have had time to think about it. Look for chat rooms that are moderated in some way so that you are not abused by angry and violent chatters. Sometimes, great friendships come about because of these types of rooms, but you remember to use the same care you would use anywhere else online to stay safe.

Maternity Insurance Options


If you are already carrying a child and want to purchase medical insurance, you might find that it won't be easy to find. Insurance companies know that they are will spend more than you pay in premiums if they insure you and are unlikely to offer you health insurance.

Your options are likely to be limited, but there might be some ways that you can lower your costs. In some situations, health care insurance companies are mandated to insure you.

You might qualify for group medical insurance. You may qualify for a government-sponsored policy through your city, county, your state or the federal government. You might be able to get the cost of your medical care lowered through negotiation.

You will probably be denied for an individual health insurance policy, if you applied while pregnant. However, if you already have a health care insurance policy, you will not be dropped from the health insurance policy because you are "with child" unless you applied too recently.

Many health individual policies will eliminate coverage for pregnancy. If you have one of these health insurance contracts and are "with child" keeping might still be worthwhile.

Why? Because most of these contracts will cover the complications of pregnancy. The complications of pregnancy could considered a sickness. Normal pregnancy is not.

You may want to look at other choices if your current contract doesn't cover normal pregnancy expenses. If you do, make sure that you keep your current policy until you have another policy in place. This can save you a lot of money.

Employer-sponsored medical insurance, if available to you, will probably be your best option. These types of policies usually have good benefits and will often have good doctors and hospitals.

Group medical insurance might be available to you through your employer. If your child is due is after the company's next open enrollment period, you could be able to get the bulk of your pregnancy costs covered by that policy. Getting group health care insurance is often the best alternative.

If your spouse or domestic partner qualifies for group health insurance, you could be able to get insurance through his or her contract. You will probably need to wait until the next open enrollment period to request insurance through the policy.

Open enrollment periods usually happen once per year, but there are special open enrollment periods also. You can typically be placed on your spouse's insurance if you apply right after you get married. A child can usually qualify to get on a parent's plan if he or she applies before he or she is 30 days old.

Group insurance is often available to the self-employed. In many areas, an individual can qualify for group insurance. You could be able to get health insurance this way as the primary insured or as a dependent.

There may be plans offered through your state, city or county. You might qualify for Medicaid. These government-sponsored plans should be investigated if coverage through private health care insurance isn't available to you.

You might want to ask your OB/GYN or your local planned parenthood to see what options are available in your area. Choices available in different parts of the country, towns and counties vary widely. If you are able to find coverage, you are likely to save a lot. Be sure to do your homework..

You may be able to lower your pregnancy expenses by prepaying your bill at the hospital. Soon-to-be-mothers often find that the hospital will give them a deep discount if they are able enter into a prepayment plan.

Shopping around for a less costly doctor can also be a good idea. Hospitals even those that are a short drive form each other can charge very differently. It pays to comparison shop.

Pregnancy shouldn't be a time where money is paramount in your mind. However, making an effort to reduce your expenses can make being a mother better because you can spend more time focusing on your baby.