5 Exhaustive Tips on Motherhood

Motherhood is perhaps the most cherished period of a woman's' life. Ever since she is pregnant till when she brings her baby up, she is in the most beautiful stage of life, called motherhood. However beautiful and pure it is, it is certainly hard to sail through this episode of life, without much prior insight into it. These days there are some very good motherhood guides available online. But if you are looking for a short read, which covers pretty much every aspect of this stage, then read on.

1. Take good care of yourself during pregnancy, because what you do to yourself, is what you do to your baby at last. It is always better to have the best kind of food, as prescribed; also have a good and comprehensive workout routine which will help you during delivery and also bring about a high metabolism that will help both your baby and you. Food and exercise are the first things you have got to pay attention to.


2. Take your doctor's advice seriously. All the pills and also other prescribed foods and drugs need to be taken. Remember this is only to help you cope up with this phase in a better manner.


3. Be comfortable. Do not over exert and be overcome by discomfort. Always choose to be in a position that is comfortable and in clothes that are comfortable too. Shop for the best maternity clothes that you can flaunt in this period of life. Be mentally comfortable for delivery as well.


4. After pregnancy the most important thing you have got to consider is that of your baby's protection. Of course do not forget yourself in the bargain. Do the best for your baby and yourself and also take great care. You might need some advice during this phase, all you have to do is ask someone who is experienced or just go through some online guide.


5. Lastly, enjoy your motherhood. Have fun and make small things look beautiful and charming.

Does Eating Dairy Foods While Pregnant Make You Have A Girl Baby?

I recently had someone who was trying to have a girl baby contact me. She was already pregnant but wanted to do everything that she could to make sure that she ended up with a girl rather than a boy. She asked me: "should I be drinking milk? Does drinking dairy when you're pregnant help you get a girl baby?"

There was really two questions here. The first was whether consuming milk or dairy helped you to conceive or become pregnant with a female child. The second was whether your diet after you're already pregnant can affect your baby's gender. I will discuss these topics in the following article.

Does Your Diet After Conception Affect Your Baby's Gender?: I'll address this question first. Your baby's gender is decided at conception. Although the sex organs aren't visible for a while, once you conceive, your baby's sex has already been decided. At the end of the day, if an X sperm fertilizes your egg, you've conceived a girl even if this isn't immediately visible. And, if a Y fertilizes your egg, you're the parents of a baby boy on down the road, even if the male organs aren't apparent for some time.

So, your diet after conception isn't going to change what has already taken place. That's not to say that a healthy diet (which includes dairy) isn't important for a healthy baby and a healthy pregnancy. They are. They just don't factor into your baby's gender if they happen after conception instead of before it, which leads me to my next point.

Eating Acidic Foods Before Pregnancy Can Increase Your Chances Of Having A Girl: Your diet before you become pregnant can affect your baby's gender. The reason for this is that the foods you eat can affect whether your reproductive tract is alkaline or acidic. If it is acidic, this increases your chances for a girl because this is detrimental to boy sperm. If you are alkaline, this is much better for the boy sperm which in turn increases your chances for a boy.

Along these same lines, milk and dairy foods are more acidic. So consuming them can help you to become more acidic which would increase your odds of a daughter. However, just adding one food to your diet may not be enough to change your PH and acidity. Women will often do a short overhaul of their diets when they're trying to conceive and influence their baby's gender.

You can test yourself before you make any changes to your diet to see where you're falling to determine what types of dietary changes you might want to make. Also, douching can help to change your PH also, so you have some other options other than just diet.

The Many Styles of Prego Maternity Swimwear

For pregnant women, wearing a swimsuit can often be a nerve wracking and vulnerable experience, as they are not completely comfortable showing off their changing body. Although these feelings are natural, pregnancy is a beautiful thing, and one's baby bump and curves are something to be celebrated. Over the past several years, showing off one's baby bump in maternity swimwear has become incredibly popular. With the right maternity swimsuit, one will look and feel amazing. Prego is a well-known maternity designer who focuses on maternity swimwear. With designs that are fashionable and functional, Prego's maternity swimwear is guaranteed to make one look one's best.

For women who truly want to show off their baby bump, a maternity bikini is a fabulous choice. This year, many pregnant celebrities have been spotted baring their bump in beautiful bikinis, making it a very popular option for expectant mothers. A bikini is a great choice, as it leaves one's belly completely unrestricted. It is important to buy a maternity bikini, instead of a regular one, as they are built with more bust support which is a must when one is expecting. Prego's Black Dot Bikini is a popular option, as it is stylish and functional. The black and white polka dot design is super cute, and the rectangular ring at the bust creates a nice fit. The straps are adjustable so that it can be fitted perfectly to one's shape, and the stretchy fabric hugs one's curves beautifully throughout pregnancy. Designed well, it will last one throughout pregnancy and beyond. Another great option is Prego's Leopard Print Bikini. The chic leopard print design is right on trend this season. The adjustable halter, light padding, and oval cinched design provide the needed support. Well-made and stylish, Prego's maternity bikinis are a great option.

If one does not feel comfortable bearing it all but still wants the feel of a two-piece, a maternity tankini is a great choice. They are designed to support one's bust and then flow gently over one's belly, so that only a hint of skin shows. Prego's Black Ring-kini is a fashionable choice this season, as its supportive and adjustable straps are accented by clear rings. The cross-over style bra top provides excellent support, and its V-neck cut is elongating and slimming. For a tropical feel, Prego's Picasso Trim Tie Halter is a must. The chocolate, aqua, and green modern print is trimmed by a matching brown band. The super supportive halter tie is adjustable and creates a beautiful neckline. The matching chocolate bottoms fit comfortably below the belly, and match the top perfectly. For comfort and fashion in one, Prego's maternity tankinis are the way to go.

Many women prefer a one-piece, as they ensure added support. One-pieces are sexy and stylish in their own right, and combine function and fashion flawlessly. For women who enjoy swimming actively and often, a one-piece provides insurance that nothing will slip out. Prego's Empire Tank, in beautiful jade, navy, or black, is the perfect one-piece. Its wide adjustable straps and hook back bra provide excellent bust support. The seaming underneath the bust creates an empire waist design, which is incredibly flattering and slimming. To ensure it fits throughout one's pregnancy, the fabric is extra stretchy. All three colors are gorgeous on any skin tone, making this both a stylish and practical maternity swimwear choice. For support and style in one, Prego's one-pieces are a must.

Well-made, well-designed, and wonderfully fashionable, Prego's maternity swimwear designs provide excellent options for any expectant mother. Whether one prefers a bikini, tankini, or one-piece, there is something for everyone to choose from.

Unexplained Hair Loss In Women

Unexplained hair loss is becoming more common among women. Suddenly hair starts falling out for no reason, at an alarming rate-sometimes handfuls at a time. For many women, shock and panic set in as the dramatic increase in shedding continues. Some worry they may soon become completely bald.

Because routine lab work often comes back normal, the condition may be dismissed as "just a cosmetic problem" that one must learn to live with. Or, the person may be handed a one-size-fits-all prescription for a synthetic topical treatment that only deals with the symptom rather than the underlying issue.

It is important to understand that chronic excessive shedding is not normal, and will not occur when all is well. When the hair growth cycle shuts down, or stops functioning properly it is an indication that a physical or emotional imbalance exists. Telogen effluvium is the name for this condition.

A temporary increase in shedding may occur due to a minor, short-lived trigger such as infection, flu, high fever, new medication, change in diet, medical procedure, vaccination, shock or trauma, etc. If the body is otherwise healthy; and the triggering factor has been resolved or removed the hair growth cycle will spontaneously heal before any noticeable thinning occurs. Although this type of telogen effluvium is usually not cause for concern, it may be beneficial to pinpoint the trigger in order to avoid the possibility of future episodes.

When the condition is long-lasting and severe, causing an obvious decrease in volume there may be a deeper issue that must be determined and treated in order to restore normal thickness and optimal health.

Often there is more than one contributing factor. Chronic telogen effluvium occurs as a result of the body working overtime--expending extra energy in attempt to overcome the inner disturbance, imbalance or disorder. The hair growth cycle may shut down or become disrupted in order to compensate while the body deals with the difficult task of trying to re-establish balance.

Below is a list of common causes or contributing factors that can lead to chronic telogen effluvium. It's important to realize that if one of the following conditions exists, it does not necessarily imply that it is the single cause of the problem. Correcting all imbalances and improving overall health and well-being is the best line of defense.

THYROID IMBALANCE

Standard thyroid testing is often incomplete. Because even a slight imbalance can cause hair loss, thorough, highly sensitive lab work is advised-especially if thyroid symptoms exists. This should include testing for antibodies (Hashimotos thyroiditis).

NUTRITIONAL DEFICIENCY

Common deficiencies that are associated with hair loss include protein, iron, zinc, magnesium, chromium, selenium, vitamin D, etc. These deficiencies are also often associated with the underlying disorder in which hair loss is the symptom of. Rather than supplementing or increasing dietary intake of one particular nutrient, it may be more beneficial to include a wide variety of nutrients through diet and supplementation in order to provide balance to the body.

MAL-ABSORBTION

Nutritional deficiencies are often caused by mal-absorption issues such as Celiac (gluten intolerance) or Chron's disease and other digestive disorders. In addition to increasing nourishment, success will depend on determining and treating the underlying mal-absorption condition accordingly.

CANDIDIASIS ALBICANS

Candidiasis albicans is a systemic fungal/yeast infection. This under-diagnosed condition can wreak havoc of the entire system. Symptoms include an over-all feeling of un-wellness, foggy thinking, lack of energy etc. Skin symptoms and hair loss are common. If Candidiasis albicans exists, healing the infection should produce notable improvements in hair and skin health and overall wellness.

SYSTEMIC INFLAMMATION

Some experts believe that chronic low-level systemic inflammation is at the root of all health disorders. Anti-inflammatory diet can be very helpful for health of hair and the underlying related disorders.

AUTOIMMUNE DISORDER

Autoimmune disorders may make a person more susceptible to chronic telogen effluvium. To keep symptoms from manifesting, great efforts must be made to keep immune system balanced. Certain autoimmune conditions such as Hashimoto's thyroiditis, Graves's disease, Celiac, Chron's and lupus are commonly associated with hair loss.

HORMONAL CHANGES/ POSTPARTUM

It's not uncommon for telogen effluvium to occur in women approximately three months after delivering a baby. In normal cases the condition subsides within six to nine months, leaving the new mother with only a slight decrease in thickness and volume. If the shedding becomes severe and long-lasting it would indicate that other factors are involved. Extreme care and extra nourishment are necessary during the postpartum period.

UNHEALTHY LIFE STYLE

Anytime an unhealthy lifestyle is present it will be more difficult to re-establish healthy hair growth. The better condition the body is in physically, mentally, emotionally and spiritually, the easier it will be to heal the imbalances causing the excessive shedding. Although disruption of the hair growth cycle can be the first sign of a wide variety of health disorders, it can be last to recover. The body has a built-in healing system that works on the principals or priority. It will provide healing energy to the areas that are most essential before it will bother with hair growth. The best results are achieved when the entire system is treated holistically rather than concentrating only on the symptom of hair loss.

ALOPECIA AREATA

Alopecia areata is an autoimmune condition that specifically targets follicles of the scalp causing bald patches. This is not a form of telogen effluvium but there are variations of alopecia areata that can mimic telogen effluvium such as diffuse alopecia areata or alopecia areata incognita. Severe forms of this autoimmune disorder can cause baldness on the scalp and all over the body but the follicles remain alive so there is always potential for regrowth.

Diet to Help You Get Pregnant - Top 10 Foods For Conception

If you are hoping to conceive, you might be wondering if there is a special diet to help you get pregnant. We have all read much about the impact of the foods we eat on our wellbeing and there are indeed certain foods to increase the chances of conception.

First of all, it is essential that you cut out any obviously unhealthy elements of your diet. For example, if you drink alcohol, then it is advisable to stop that altogether. It also goes without saying that you should stop smoking too.

With regard to your diet, sticking to the principles of a healthy diet is important, such as cutting out saturated fats, foods with additives, white sugars and over-processed carbohydrates and fizzy drinks. Generally, it is wise to consume foods which are as close to their natural state as possible.

A diet to help you get pregnant should ideally include the following 10 foods as these will increase the chances of conception:-

* Kelp-This is iodine-rich and good for ovarian function. It is nutrient rich and can be used in stews, casseroles and soups

* Broccoli-A well-known superfood. Great for general reproductive health. Helps regulate hormones

* Hemp Seeds-Good balance of essential fats as well as GLA. Good for skin and hormone health

* Fish-Great for overall female health. Very nutrient rich

* Wholegrains-Fiber-rich for a healthy digestive tract. Contains magnesium which is great for the reproductive system

* Avocados-Good source of Vitamin E which can help with PMS

* Brazil Nuts-3 a day will give you enough selenium, which is vital for reproductive health

* Aduki Beans-Nourishing and cleansing. Great for keeping weight in balance

* Rye Bread-Nutritious and easy to digest. If you eat bread-go for this type

* Nettle Tea-A good overall energiser and source of iron. Drink a couple of cups daily during your period

Maternity Pillows: The Dream Pillow for Total Body Support During Pregnancy

Such pillows allow for maximum support and comfort regardless of the position in which the user sleeps; they are therefore the most widely recommended and versatile pillows available.

A maternity pillow is also available which fits under the belly or between the knees; this can be used for extra support in the beginning stages of pregnancy and then replaced by a full body model as pregnancy progresses. There are also models which are meant only for side sleeping and are more compact than the full body pillow; these are also very helpful and provide comfort during the earlier stages of pregnancy.

Regardless of the type of body pillow chosen, the quality and level of support should be sufficient to provide comfort and to reduce pregnancy pain that results from the pressure which the growing belly exerts on the body during sleep. When a pregnant woman wakes up rested and pain-free, she is able to go about her daily tasks calmly and efficiently, so that she does not suffer from undue stress during pregnancy.

Preventing stress and pregnancy pain does much to ensure that delivery and labor goes smoothly, especially when the added support of a full body pillow is provided during the later phases of pregnancy.

Maternity pillows are a comfortable and inexpensive way to ensure proper sleep during pregnancy, and they do much to prevent pregnancy pain that disrupts sleep and often persists throughout the day. Physicians and other maternity care specialists advise their use and they agree that a quality maternity pillow is a safe and effective way of making sure a pregnant woman gets the sleep she deserves and avoids unnecessary and harmful stress during pregnancy.

It is easy to find a selection of quality pillows through a specialty retailer, and they can recommend the right model for yourself or as a gift for a friend or relative who is expecting.

Therapeutic Massage Helps Overcome Infertility

When my wife and I had our first baby, we were so elated we wanted another one. Unfortunately, after 4 months of trying to conceive, we were unsuccessful. Our tolerance for secondary infertility was very low; we immediately sought help from our obstetrician. She prescribed fertility pills for 6 months but with no results. We set on to find other alternative means.

We read about diet and cleaned up our act by eliminating processed food and junk food. We threw out our microwave oven. We eliminated all drugs and lotions. I ate raw oysters to increase my sperm count.

I made a call to all friends and relatives that we were in search of a therapeutic massage expert. Our nannie had an aunt who was a therapeutic massage expert and midwife who was reputed to have been the final ingredient that made many women pregnant. We sought her assistance, she had expertise in manually fixing uterus positions. Many infertility cases she says comes from the uterus being out of position. In our language, this expert is called a "hilot".

The "hilot" visited us for 3 Wednesdays in December 2002. The first session was scheduled immediately the day after the last drop of menstruation had stopped. Each session lasted only 10 minutes, the 2nd session left my wife sore as the "hilot" manually manipulated her uterus. The "hilot" told us on the 2nd Wednesday that my wife would still bleed this December 2002, but that she would surely be pregnant by January 2003.

January 18, we were so excited and took a test kit. Negative. Pffft... so much for "hilot" we thought. My wife said she will just begin a work out program. I had to go back and get a new sperm analysis. Sperm analysis comes out 300 million per ml. Whoa! I should be able to get any girl pregnant at this count, the lab technician said. Wife calls on my cell phone on January 25, 2003 and declares... "I'm pregnant!"

The hilot was absolutely correct, she called it, we are believers now. In fact, our lifestyle change and the hilot's caring was so good, my wife became unexpectedly pregnant again after just some 6 months after giving birth to our 2nd child. So we wound up with 2 additional children for our infertility fighting effort. We now have a total of 3 children.

Why You Should Take DHA During Pregnancy and How Not to Do It

Expectant mothers are being bombarded with new prenatal fish oil supplements. Are they effective? Are they safe? Should you take DHA during pregnancy at all? The answers are maybe, maybe and yes - if you know what you are doing.

First, there seems to be some confusion about the relationship between DHA and omega 3 fish oil. DHA is an omega 3. What this means is that if you are trying to take DHA during pregnancy, you do not need a "prenatal" formula. A quality omega 3 fish oil supplement will not only suffice but in most cases be preferable.

There are really two omega 3s that mother and child need. The second one is EPA. In, other words if you plan on taking DHA during pregnancy you need EPA also, but not as much.

Why should I take omega 3s in the first place?

The two found in fish oil are part of every cell in our body. DHA is particularly prevalent in the brain and eyes, EPA in cell membranes. The research on this has not gone unnoticed, even in Washington.

Omega 3s have been shown to benefit four of the top five ailments or conditions for which troops receive hospital treatment. Those includes pregnancy and depression. The U.S. Department of defense is looking into adding these essential fats to soldiers diets.

It is not just combat performance that could be improved by omega-3s. Some military dietitians believe they could help to cut medical bills running into millions of dollars. The DOD is looking at doing this for their pregnant female soldiers because the research is pretty overwhelming.

What scientists have found is this.

Ninety-nine% of people in the West are estimated to have an omega 3 deficiency. Unless an expectant mother takes EPA and DHA during pregnancy that figure is going to include her and her child. What this means is that after the child is born she or he will be more likely to have:

1] Increased risk of depression, ADD, mood swings and emotional volatility.

2] Lower IQ scores - 8-10 points or more.

3] Visual problems.

4] Coordination development issues.

Mom is also more likely to have early labor and postpartum depression of her own.

The growing fetus is almost literally an omega 3 sponge. Since our bodies can not make these essential fats, the fetus is going to grab them from mom. If mom is not taking EPA and DHA during pregnancy then they both will likely have shortages.

What about supplements?

The only way to get these fats is by supplement or eating a lot of fish. The FDA is okay with purified supplements but not with too much fish. Heavy metals from the ocean are bad for everyone but downright deadly to young children.

As I mentioned earlier there are no special omega 3s for prenatal, postnatal or senior citizens. In fact, many of the prenatal supplements I have seen are inefficient at the least and contaminated at the worst. Do your research. Stick with quality. For more information in this area, please visit my website.

Remember, your unborn child is getting nutrients from you. Talk to your doctor about taking EPA and DHA during pregnancy. You need enough for at least two of you.

Short Term Disability - Affording First Trimester Bed Rest

A new pregnancy if full of excitement and anticipation; you look forward to that bouncing new baby and holding it in your arms. Many couples choose to wait until the second trimester to break the news to family and friends. There is a realization that the first few months of pregnancy can be risky. If a couple loses their baby during this time, they prefer to mourn privately.

A common problem is first trimester spotting or bleeding. Approximately one quarter of women who deliver healthy babies experience some spotting early in her pregnancy. However bleeding may be an indicator of a pending miscarriage, and sometimes a doctor may suggest bed rest to improve the chances of a successful delivery and healthy mother.

First Trimester Bed Rest

Bed rest for a couple of days is tolerable for most women - and their finances. But sometimes the bed rest can extend for weeks or months. If mom's income is needed to help make ends meet financially, the loss of income places an unneeded, unwanted, and unhealthy strain on an already difficult situation. Adding stress on top of first trimester bleeding can't be good for mom or her baby. Bed rest should relieve stress, not add to it.

Sometimes a family just can't afford having mom miss extra time from work. Rather than taking the bed rest she her doctor suggests, she returns to work hoping for the best. What a horrible dilemma that many women face: choosing between the health of her baby, and financial ruin. There must be a better way.

Short Term Disability for Bed Rest

Short term disability insurance is vital in situations like these. It replaces mom's income during the time she misses work for her pregnancy, whether it's during the first trimester, second trimester, third trimester, or on her maternity leave. The income replacement allows mom to rest comfortable at home without worrying about how to pay the bills, rushing back to work too soon, or ignoring doctor orders.

The most amazing aspect of short term disability coverage is the incentives to sign up before getting pregnant. First, in order to cover any pregnancy, the policy must begin before getting pregnant. Second, there is an opportunity to buy insurance for a planned event: her normal labor and delivery.

By buying insurance that covers a planned event you can beat the insurance company at its own game. Short term disability pays a six week benefit for normal vaginal delivery and an eight week benefit for a normal c-section delivery - less the elimination period. The projected benefit for normal delivery is two to three times the average annual premium.

Short Term Disability Creates Maternity Income

This means that women planning a pregnancy can use short term disability insurance to create maternity leave income. And at no additional premium cost comes the added security of knowing that you are also covered if your doctor orders bed rest during your first trimester, or any other time during your pregnancy.

Do yourself and your future pregnancy a huge favor. Purchase short term disability insurance before getting pregnant.

Affordable Arizona Health Insurance Plans - How to Get Cheap Quotes Online

Discouraged with the high cost of health insurance? Want to find the cheapest price and still get complete coverage? Here's how to find the lowest cost health insurance quotes online with quality coverage in Arizona.

Arizona Health Insurance Plans

The most popular plans today for health insurance are the managed care plans. These plans consist of a network of doctors and hospitals which provide members with their health care needs. Managed health care plans vary from one policy to another so it's important to compare plans.

An HMO will give you the lowest premiums but there are some requirements and considerations.

• Most HMO plans ask you to choose a doctor that is within 30 miles of your residence.
  


• You should also find out what hospitals in your area, are under the HMO insurance plan you are considering.
  


• Many HMOs focus on preventive health care as a way to keep medical costs under control.
  


• Small copayments are usually required for doctor visits, and must be paid at the time of your visit.

Depending on your needs you may want to include coverage for items such as maternity care, prescriptions, and vision care. Managed care plans can vary quite a bit from insurance company to insurance company so look at each plan carefully before deciding on one.

Affordable Arizona Health Insurance Plans Online

One of the best ways to get affordable health insurance quotes in Arizona is to go to a free insurance quote website. There you can get competitive quotes from up to 5 health insurance providers so you can compare plans and prices. After you have your quotes, you need to look closely at the policies and decide which one is the best for you.

The Benefits of Being Skin to Skin

You've probably heard of "kangaroo care" for premature babies. You hold tiny babies against your skin to help them grow and develop. But did you know that skin to skin contact benefits babies of all ages? Even your healthy newborn will benefit from kangaroo care!

Improving Your Baby's Health

Little ones are very immature in many ways. Their temperature regulation isn't great, which is why it's so important to keep babies warm. They don't breathe completely regularly yet. A newborn's nervous system is still developing.

Luckily, all of these things are helped by keeping your little one skin-to-skin. Your own temperature and breathing actually help your baby to regulate his or hers! As your little one is against your skin, he or she will feel you breathe. This has been proven to help a baby modify his or her own breathing pattern to match yours. Babies who sleep in their parent's arms and on their chests actually begin to breathe along with them.

The same is true with temperature. Your baby's temperature will fluctuate up and down with the weather far more easily than yours. This is why premature babies have such a hard time and need to be in a warming cradle. It's also why doctors put even full-term newborns into a warming cradle.

A healthy, full-term baby doesn't need this treatment, however. If you put your newborn or older baby on your chest skin to skin, then cover both of you with a blanket your baby will be nice and warm. Your temperature helps your baby's body reach the correct temperature and stay there.

Your baby's nervous system is also soothed and regulated by being close to you. Immature pathways begin to mature and impulses start to fire in predictable ways when your baby feels secure and takes his or her cues from your own body.

Increased Bonding

In addition to the health benefits your baby receives from being close to you, you will also increase your bond with your baby. Babies have been cradled in the womb for nine months. They're used to hearing your heart beat and hearing you breathe. The gentle, natural rhythm of your body is soothing to your baby.

Your baby will be comforted by enjoying these same rhythms after birth, as well. Your baby likes being against your chest, hearing your heart beat and feeling the gentle rise of your lungs.

Babies and children love routine and rhythm. You can first create a secure routine for your child by holding him or her close to you and continuing the soothing experience of heartbeats and breathing. Your warm skin and familiar smell are also soothing to your baby.

As your baby learns that you are a source of comfort that can be trusted, he or she grows more and more attached to you.

Skin to Skin Helps You

The benefits of skin contact are not just for your baby. You as a parent will find many benefits, too. Holding a baby skin to skin brings strong hormonal responses from your body. Mothers tend to feel deep rushes of love and attachment for their babies. Fathers feel a strong need to protect and care for their baby (and the baby's mother). These hormonal processes are built into humans and they're important for helping you bond with your baby and helping to prevent problems like depression.

Many modern practices, like taking a baby away right after birth, strollers, and cribs in separate rooms tend to disrupt the normal flow of hormones and pattern of bonding between parent and child. You can overcome these things by making different choices and taking the time to hold and cuddle with your baby.

Baby skin is also soft and silky, and babies smell pleasant. We as humans are hard-wired to find joy in these things and really get attached to our babies. Hold your baby close to you -- both you and your baby will love it.

Signs Of Pregnancy - Few Explanation Of What They Are

Congratulations! You might be pregnant because you're reading this. The next thing you want to do is check the probable signs of pregnancy that you may encounter during pregnancy. Your body is like a multi-part machine which is delicately tuned to provide signals all the time. Pregnancy makes a lot of changes to your body's usual day-to-day functions and if ever you're pregnant, your body will inform you through early pregnancy symptoms!

What follows are the number of signs that you might encounter during pregnancy:

1. You need to check whether you have a missed your period. Actually, it's not a definite sign of pregnancy since the reason why it occurred can be due to some other reasons. Among the causes apart from pregnancy can include acute overproduction of progesterone and estrogen hormones, stress, and irregular period. These factors are the other causes that can delay or cease this normal process of the body.

2. Morning sickness is a common pregnancy sign, but you have to confirm that it is not caused by the food you ate. Hormonal changes in your body are thought to be the main culprit of this pregnancy sign. As a matter of fact, most doctors say that morning sickness is an excellent indicator of your baby's well-being and pregnancy condition. If your morning sickness is accompanied with vomiting, be sure to keep hydrated.

3. Odd food cravings is an additional early sign of pregnancy. Food aversions vary from woman to woman. This may include craving for green mangoes, peanut butter, ice cream, cakes, etc. Remember to be careful with your pregnancy diet. Even though this symptom is not conclusive, this is one of the most common pregnancy indicators. Make that appointment with your doctor to ensure that you'll be able to deliver a healthy baby.

You'll find a number of other symptoms that have been witnessed already by many. This might include increased basal body temperature, exhaustion, headache and so on. You may also experience one particular sign of pregnancy at a time or possibly a mixture of two, 3 or perhaps more than that.

If you think you will be unable to cope with all of the pregnancy-related issues, it would be great to arrange an appointment with your health care provider. It really is no use to keep on struggling with what's proving to be too much for you to deal with. Leave it to your health care professionals. The time you feel the very first sign of pregnancy, it really is best to put in all your efforts.

Protect Your Family With Exclusive Family Health Insurance Plans

Even if you have a very healthy family with hardly any serious health problems, it is wise to have a Health Insurance policy for the entire family. You will never know when the symptoms will start or if the disease is silently progressing. You wouldn't want to settle for a cheaper treatment just because you don't have the money to pay for it. Get a good Family Health Insurance done and ensure that your family gets the best.

Family Health Insurance Plans that cover everything

The Insurance Plans of different companies will vary and one should compare the rates and conditions before opting for one. Some plans cover even preventive care. This is most important among children who need to be regularly checked, immunized and vaccinated. While it is a must for children, regular check ups should be done for adults as well. Hospitalization and other expenses will also be paid for by the insurance company which will come in very helpful when unexpected injuries take place.

Foresight is important

If you have a hereditary disease in the family, family Health Insurance will be all the more important for you. If you are just married or are planning to have more children, opt for Family Health Insurances offer that cover maternity care as well. Little children tend to fall sick or injure themselves and having good Family Health Insurance Plans will help you financially. Getting your insurance done online will be very convenient as payment etc can be easily done. It is very efficient and the transactions can be done even in the comfort of your house.

Affordable

Including the entire family under one Family Health Insurance Plan is a great way to save and it is more affordable especially for those with big families. Some companies allow you to include the family within the individual insurance too. You will also have income tax benefits on the amount spent on the premium. The amount spent for dependent children and parents who are senior citizens is also accountable for income tax deductions.

21 Tips for Relieving Nausea (Morning Sickness) Naturally

1. EAT! Never allow your stomach to be fully empty. Keep a
snack with you at all times Eating small meals throughout the day will help keep
your blood sugar from dipping too low and triggering nausea. Try eating
carbohydrates before you even get out of bed (crackers, toast, dried fruit, popcorn,
granola bars, etc.)

2. Protein: Protein is the best source of sustained energy
and will be one of your biggest allies in preventing nausea. Eat some just before bed
to avoid feeling queasy in the morning.

3. Complex Carbohydrates: Avoid refined grains and
simple carbs like pasta and sugar. These foods not only have little, if any, nutrition
but can lead to low blood sugar. Enjoy whole wheat pastas, breads, and other whole
grains.

4. Drink: Dehydration is a major cause of nausea and
headaches. Aim for 2.5 litres of water, unsweetened juices, and herbal teas. Soft
drinks, caffeinated beverages, and sugary drinks are best avoided throughout your
pregnancy.

5. Avoid smells, tastes, and textures that trigger your
nausea. Ask others in the house to be aware of and respect this.

6. Accupressure: Try "Seabands" designed to offset
motion sickness, or firmly press an accupressure site that lies 1/6th of the way
between your wrist and elbow, in the middle of the inner side of your forearm.

7. Ginger has has been clinically proven to relieve nausea.
Take 250 mg three to four times a day in capsule form (do not exceed 1 g) or drink
5-6 cups of the tea throughout the day.

8. Digestive teas such as fennel, spearmint, and
chamomile may also be of benefit if indigestion leads to your nausea.

9. Avoid foods that can cause gas and bloating. Try
drinking carbonated beverages to help expel stomach gas.

10. If an increase in mucous production is causing your nausea, try
indulging in spicy foods or drink hot teas.

11. Avoid sucking on hard candies on an empty stomach.
Although this may temporarily relieve your nausea, the digestive juices you
stimulate could make matters a lot worse.

12. Vitamin B6: Taking 25 mg of B6 throughout the
day, not exceeding 150 mg. may help "shut off" the nausea control-centre in your
brain. Many women are deficient in B vitamins at the onset of pregnancy, especially
those who were previously on oral contraceptives.

13. Avoid taking your supplements on an empty stomach .

14. Sleep: Exhaustion can aggravate nausea, and baby-
making is tiring work!

15. Address your fears: Many women find that there is a
psychological component to their nausea which can be relieved though counselling
and talking with others, as well as empowering themselves in preparation for the
birth.

16. Indigestion: Try using digestive enzymes such
as papain and bromelain at mealtime to aid digestion. Activated charcoal may also
help relieve a "sour" stomach. Try 2 capsules when nauseous, up to twice a day.

17. Homeopathics: Homeopathic remedies are usually
prescribed on an individual basis, but you might try remedies such as nux vomica,
ipecac, and sepia. (Be sure you are purchasing the homeopathic variety of ipecac.
The undiluted kind can be dangerous to your pregnancy)

18. Keep active: CO2 buildup in the blood can contribute
to nausea, which can be reduced with the help of cardiovascular activity such as
walking and swimming.

19. Talk: Many women experience ambivalence when they
find out they are pregnant, even if it was planned. This anxiety can lead to nausea,
which in turn can lead to more anxiety.

20. Herbs: There are a variety of herbs that your herbalist
can recommend including dandelion root, wild yam, vitex, false unicorn, and black
horehound. Find someone knowledgeable in the use of herbs during pregnancy to
formulate something specifically for you.

21. Aromatherapy: Many essential oils will be off-limits
during pregnancy, especially in the first trimester. However lavender essential oil,
when inhaled, may help relieve some nausea.NOTE: Always make sure your doctor or midwife is
aware of your situation. Vomiting during pregnancy can quickly lead to dehydration
and possibly malnutrition if it continues long enough. In some cases it may be an
unrelated pathogen and should be investigated by your caregiver.
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Health Insurance - Some Things You Might Not Have Known About HumanaOne Health Insurance

With all of the different options that we have for health insurance companies and coverage in Utah, not many people know about HumanaOne and what plans they offer. So, we are going to go over what sets them apart, things you may not have known and see if they might be a good fit for you. 

Did you know that Humana is one of the largest health insurance providers as well as one of the largest publicly traded healthcare companies in the country?
 
Did you know that they have one of the largest healthcare networks in Utah?
 
Did you know that none of their plans cover maternity? 

Did you know that they offered a very good dental plan?
 
Did you know that they have some of the most affordable plans while also having superior coverage in Utah?
 
Did you know that they offer unlimited prescription coverage on some of their plans? (Unlike other carriers and plans that will limit the amount of prescription dollars they will cover each year)
 
Did you know that because they have a national network, if you travel out of Utah, you will be able to find in-network doctors and facilities? 

Did you know that many doctors that are in the IHC network will also be in the HumanaOne network?
 
Did you know that by using a local independent health insurance agent that is in Utah, and by making sure that he appointed with all of the main carriers here, that he will be able to show you how HumanaOne compares to them? He will be able to show you what is good and bad about their plans and see if it is a good fit for you, your family or your small business. The best part is that you get their expert advice for free! 

So when you are looking into health insurance in Utah, make sure you educate yourself on your options and see if HumanaOne might be a fit for you.

What Are The Important Things Every Pregnant Women Should Know About Health Insurance?

Exercise, proper diets etc. is very important while pregnant. It also plays a role in conceiving, so overlooking these things may sometimes complicate the matter. Many women plan their pregnancy considering their career, financial condition and other factors, but very few women plan their Health insurance accordance with their pregnancy. Today the cost of delivery increases with inflation. Approximate cost for a normal delivery is $ 6,500 and for cesarean the cost is around $ 10,500 depending upon the grade of maternity home or hospital. So it is very important that every woman should cover their pregnancy with suitable Health insurance and stop worrying about the maternity bill.

The very first important thing every pregnant woman should know is purchase the health insurance before they are pregnant. If someone get their Health insurance after they are pregnant than generally they have to wait for months before their insurance coverage become effective.

As mention in the Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act, pre-existing conditions does not include pregnancy, so pregnant women can easily change health plans. But try to avoid changing job while pregnant.

It is always beneficial to know the coverage provided by your existing health plan for pregnancy, birth etc. Pay special attention to different types of baby care, preventive and maternity care provision of the health plan. After the child is born it is very important to inform your health insurance administrator with in 30 days.

If you are covered by group health insurance plan provided by your employer. Than inquire about whether the group health plan covers maternity or not, If you are not insured than for pregnant woman Medicaid is the best option, but to eligible for Medicaid your income should not exceeds certain limit. When in doubt always take the advice from reputed Health agency like [http://www.floridahealthinsurancecorp.com] or you may contact State insurance department.

Florida Health Insurance [http://www.floridahealthinsurancecorp.com] Click for more information

Pregnancy Beauty Treatments - Is Sunscreen Safe During Pregnancy?

The effects of UV rays on the skin are well documented. Skin cancer, premature aging, and sun spots are all linked to sun exposure and overexposure. Sunscreens are the best option to block UV rays from damaging the skin, but are sunscreen products safe for use during pregnancy?

Sunscreens block UV rays by including one of three ingredients - oxybenzone, zinc oxide, or titanium dioxide. Oxybenzone is the ingredient pregnant women want to avoid. In some research studies, oxybenzone has been linked to low birth weight in female infants. While these studies could not pinpoint oxybenzone as the sole reason for low birth weight, there is no reason to put your baby at risk if there is a viable alternative that is considered safe for use during pregnancy.

The reason oxybenzone cannot be pinpointed as the cause of birth defects is due to its effect on the skin. This chemical is used to help other chemicals absorb through the skin. Unlike zinc oxide and titanium dioxide, which lie on the surface of the skin, products with oxybenzone permeate the skin allowing chemicals to absorb into the bloodstream.

In 2008, the Environmental Working Group found just shy of 600 sunscreens that contained oxybenzone including Hawaiian Tropic, Ocean Potion, Aveeno, and Blue Lizard. Some of the products considered unsafe were not sunscreens, but rather facial and body lotions marketed with SPF protection.

Pregnant women should read labels for lotion, skin care products, lip balm, and lipstick. Surprisingly enough, the chemical can also be found in perfumes and hair conditioners. Oxybenzone has been linked to allergies, damage to cells, and disruption of hormones. A study performed by the CDC found traces of oxybenzone in 97% of participants. Women and young girls were found to have higher concentrations potentially due to use of skin care and beauty products.

Zinc oxide and titanium dioxide can be found in stores alongside sunscreens and products containing oxybenzone. These are considered safe during pregnancy. Before buying any skin care products, pregnant women should read all product labels.

The Upfront Costs For Mystery Shopping

Mystery shopping is a unique way for consumer-minded companies to receive useful feedback on products, services, and other aspects related to shopping from the perspective of an end customer. Companies use mystery shopping efforts to remain in touch with their key shopping demographics, and as a way to evaluate/determine the things that work and those that need improvement.

Through a variety of different avenues, companies can largely achieve the benefits of having mystery shoppers work for them at a negligible cost to their bottom line. That is, compared to the cost of hiring full-time, in-house personnel to perform mystery shopping duties or having other employees spend part of their valuable time carrying out that task.

Most mystery shoppers are targeted by companies as individuals in key demographic areas - for instance, a cosmetics provider might put out classified ads for females aged 18-30 for mystery shopping opportunities in various department stores with a large cosmetics section. Being that mystery shoppers are a unique mix of a type of focus group, and an 'undercover agent' of sorts, there is a certain amount of training involved for creating ideal mystery shoppers.

Depending on the data being observed by companies, mystery shoppers could be trained to focus on identifying ways to improve customer service, examine product quality, or evaluate marketing efforts. Above all else, though, mystery shoppers are valuable because of the 'real consumer' aspect they bring to such an effort, therefore training is generally as easy as a simple conversation detailing the things to notice while shopping.

Unfortunately due to an increasingly large amount of scam organizations using the 'mystery shopper' opportunity as a ploy, many companies are finding it harder to find qualified shoppers without making a significant investment towards displaying legitimacy. Most businesses use temp agencies to staff their mystery shopping needs, unless the project is particularly unique (i.e. shopping for maternity-related items).

In those rare cases where the project requires a specific shopper for the best results, companies generally turn to marketing research firms, private investigators, and even insurance companies who specialize in mystery shopping. This of course drastically increases the upfront price for services rendered, but ensures that a company will get the best quality while avoiding timely and expensive risks.

Today's mystery shopping rates wildly vary depending on how economically-stable a particular market has fared during the economic recession. Generally-speaking, shoppers expect to earn at least $25, and as much as $150 per shop without taking into consideration any extra benefits (i.e. free/reduced-cost meals and/or merchandise, length of assignment, amount of detail in evaluation, various expenses, etc.)

Hospital Confinement Indemnity - Help For Extra Expenses

If you have ever been in the hospital, or had a family member in the hospital, then you know how expensive it can be. If you don't have hospital confinement indemnity insurance, then you really should consider it. Not only are medical cost high, but there are always other cost involved in a hospital stay. Usually a loved one, or caregiver, will come to the hospital every day to make sure you get everything you need, and to keep you company. It doesn't take long before all those extra expenses start to add up, and cause a financial strain. Here are some of the cost that may be incurred.

1. Fuel cost of driving back and forth to hospital.
2. Cost of caregiver eating out.
3. Lost wages of person hospitalized, or caregiver.
4. Possible babysitting fees for caregivers children.
5. High deductible to pay from health insurance plan.
6. Co-insurance - the amount insurance does not cover.

There are probably more cost than these that will come up when you or a loved one are in the hospital. By having a hospital confinement indemnity policy you can use the benefits to pay for some of the cost. Knowing that you will have extra cash coming in to take care of some of these expenses is a real stress reliever.

A hospital confinement indemnity plan is a supplemental policy that pays the cash benefits directly to you. You can use the money to pay for medical cost, or just buy needed groceries. The way the money is spent is up to you and your needs. It doesn't get much easier than that!

When you start looking for a hospital confinement indemnity plan you will see that some may be different from others. This is a good time to have a qualified insurance agent explain the differences to you. By discussing your options with an agent you can be assured they will offer information that you didn't even know to ask about. You want to get a hospital confinement indemnity policy that not only meets your budget, but one that pays out the best benefits possible.

Supplemental policies, like the hospital confinement indemnity policy, have premiums much smaller than your regular health insurance. So, almost every family can afford to have one on the bread-winner in the family. This is important because if the main bread-winner is not able to work, their salary may be compromised.

It doesn't take long to get behind on your finances when someone in the family is not receiving their full paycheck. Having a hospital confinement indemnity plan can take the worry out of situations like this.

Normally a hospital confinement indemnity plan pays a certain cash benefit per day, for every day you are confined to the hospital. Many policies pay a lot more per day if you are confined to intensive, or critical care units.

No one anticipates being in the hospital, but it happens to people every single day. Talk to an insurance agent and get you a hospital confinement indemnity plan today.

4 Virtues of a Great Confinement Nanny

When hiring a confinement nanny, you have to consider what it will be like to spend most of your time with them, day in and day out. If you end up with a nanny that you don't enjoy or who rubs you the wrong way, your confinement period will not be as enjoyable as it should be.

As you search for a great confinement nanny to care for you and your baby, take the following virtues of a great confinement nanny into consideration.

#1: A great nanny will have a positive attitude.

You want a nanny who looks on the bright side and sees all things in a positive light. If they are constantly complaining you will not enjoy being with them, which is not a good thing considering they will be with you for so much time every day. Similarly, if they so uptight and anxious that they seem paranoid over the baby, you will also feel paranoid and uptight.

A good nanny will be laid back and friendly. They will put you at ease even when you feel anxious or uptight yourself. They will look at t he bright side of things no matter what is happening with your health or with the baby.

There are a lot of causes for stress and worry when you are in confinement, but with the right confinement nanny it will be much easier to get through.

#2: Babies will be the main love of a confinement nanny.

When you bring a nanny into your home, she should put your baby first. She should love babies and want to take care of them, rather than seeing them as a bother. You can tell when you have found a confinement nanny who really loves babies when she comes in and automatically scoops the baby up and starts taking care of them.

Your nanny should be as loving and caring toward your baby as you are! There should never be any rough treatment or ignoring your baby during the confinement period.

The right confinement nanny will teach you to take care of your baby and bond with your baby, rather than standing off and watching from a corner. They become an active participant in caring for your new baby.

#3: A good nanny will be just as attentive to your needs as the mother.

While taking great are of your baby, the right nanny should take great care of you. They should watch over you, make sure you get proper amounts of rest, and answer your questions and concerns. They will understand what you are going through and have heard all your questions a million times before, so they know just how to answer to put your mind at ease.

#4: You should be able to verify references for a good nanny.

A great confinement nanny always comes with prior experience. If using an individual nanny, make sure to get references and talk with other women who have used them in a nanny capacity. If you are going through a confinement nanny agency, verify that they only use nannies that have prior experience and adequate knowledge to help you through the confinement period.

It isn't difficult to find a confinement nanny who is experienced and knowledgeable yet friendly, loving and positive in personality. Their presence in the room is going to be felt by you and your baby, so personality is just as important as expertise.

Early Signs Of Pregnancy For You To Check

You have waited and waited, and then the pregnancy test reveals a positive result! Yes, you might be very excited right now but anxious at the same time because it is a challenging, life-changing experience. Your body is also nourishing and carrying a whole other person so stay healthy to ensure the success of your pregnancy. Pregnancy gives you the opportunity to experience the early signs of pregnancy which gives spice to the whole pregnancy process.

Pregnancy begins after conception and you will notice some early pregnancy symptoms. However, these symptoms may be caused by other conditions. So you perform a pregnancy test to support your doubts and if positive, make an appointment to your health care provider to for confirmation. The action of a pregnancy test is to identify the presence of the hormone human chorionic gonadotrophin, a hormone released by the placenta once it is developed in the uterus. If this hormone is detected, it may be a sign that you are really pregnant.

In pregnancy, the biggest challenge for you is to deal with the pregnancy symptoms. These may include any of the pregnancy symptoms listed below.

A missed period. This symptom will make you feel that you have to know more about other pregnancy symptoms to support your doubts. However, this can also be due to other health problems. This symptom is reliable if you have a regular period. Also, you might experience light spotting. This is due to the fertilised egg that implants itself on your uterine lining. This can happen around 3 to 12 days after ovulation.

Exhaustion or tiredness is also a supporting pregnancy symptom. However, this can also be due to lack of sleep, busy schedule and hormonal imbalance. During pregnancy, the hormone progesterone is increasing which also causes the feeling of exhaustion. This sign can be experienced as early as the first week after conception.

Mood swings. This symptom will make you feel like crying for no reason, it's normal. Mood swings are common in early pregnancy. The cause of this symptom is unknown but it is sometimes it is associated with fatigue and surging hormones. Mood swings will make you feel that something is not quite right or you may feel very happy or sad in an instant. The one who is greatly affected with this pregnancy sign is your partner. If you want to cry, go ahead.

As your pregnancy progresses, some symptoms also develops. The growing size of your uterus causes heartburn, constipation and frequent urination. It is because of the pressure exerted to some of the body parts. For some women, frequent urination is experienced not only because of the growing size of the uterus but due to some unknown changes taking place inside a woman's body. It can be felt as early as two weeks after conception.

Pregnancy Weight Gain: What Is The Right Amount And What Accounts For This Weight Gain?

There are few experiences in life that are as special and unique as expecting a baby. It is such a brief moment in time, and it is vital to take good care of yourself and the little person who will soon be joining your family.

Taking care of yourself and your baby means eating a healthy and balanced pregnancy diet. Despite this knowledge, many women find themselves in a situation where they give in to junk food cravings and may end up with an unhealthy weight gain during their pregnancy.

A Breakdown Of The Weight Gain During Pregnancy

Babies weigh around 7 pounds at birth, yet most women gain much more than that during the course of their pregnancy.

The weight gained during pregnancy is loosely allocated this way: The baby weighs eight pounds, placenta and amniotic fluid weigh six pounds, breast tissue increases by three pounds, blood supply and uterus increase account for about seven pounds and fat stores increase about eight pounds. In total weight gain should be about 30 pounds.

Each woman is different, but the range of weight gained during pregnancy should be from about 25-35 pounds.

What Is The Appropriate Amount Of Weight To Gain?

The amount of weight that you should gain when you are pregnant is dependent on how much you weighed at the beginning of your pregnancy. Women who are thinner and weigh less than they should must gain anywhere from 28 to 40 pounds throughout their pregnancy.

Women who are above normal weight only need to accumulate 15 to 25 pounds during their pregnancy. Women who weigh an average amount can gain 25 to 35 pounds throughout the pregnancy.

Speak with your doctor to determine exactly how much weight gain during your pregnancy is appropriate for you.

A Healthy Pregnancy Diet Plan

The amount of calories you need to take in when you are pregnant is similar to the standard amount of calories you need when you are not. A pregnant woman only needs to eat around 300 more calories a day to ensure healthy weight gain for her baby and herself.

Eating for two is a misconception that needs to be tossed out. It makes sense as a pregnant woman is not pregnant with another full size adult!

Eating a high fiber diet with foods from all the different food groups will ensure you are getting all the vitamins and nutrients you need. Increase the protein and dairy you eat and limit fatty and sugary foods.

Speak with your doctor about a prenatal vitamin that is right for you and make sure to take it every day. Increasing your folic acid, either through a supplement or the food you eat, is also essential.

If you are contemplating becoming pregnant, the time to plan your pregnancy diet is now. It will be difficult to drop unhealthy habits cold turkey, and if you get used to eating in a healthy way before you are pregnant, you will not have to adjust.

If you are already pregnant, it is not too late to get on a healthier course.

Do not let weight gain during your pregnancy become a motivation all its own, you should instead be focused on eating in a way that is healthy for you and your baby and let the weight gain during your pregnancy happen naturally.

Speak with your doctor before making any changes to your diet or your exercise plan.

Pregnancy Tips to Keep Yourself in Good Health

Now you are having a baby you must take extra care of yourself during the months that lie ahead.

Lots of women bloom during pregnancy - their hair grows quickly and develops a glossy shine, their skin develops a healthy glow, and their breasts swell and develop a sexy cleavage. These changes are due to the pregnancy hormone progesterone and to more oxygen circulating around your body. Progesterone can also have a calming effect and help reduce anxiety, hence the serene feeling of contentment some pregnant women experience.

Unfortunately, not all women experience this 'bloom' when they are having a baby and find their hair falls out and becomes greasy, and their skin breaks out in spots.

However, there are things you can do to keep yourself in good health.

Teeth

Dental care is free on the NHS during pregnancy and for one year after the birth, so book an appointment now. Bleeding gums are very common in pregnancy due to an increased blood flow, so you've got to take special care to keep your teeth and gums healthy.

Gum disease has been linked to premature labour and, if left untreated, can lead to periodontal disease and tooth loss.

Hair

Hair growth speeds up so your hair may be thicker and glossier when you are having a baby. Faster hair growth may also mean more hairs falling out because new hair is replacing them. Some women get greasy hair when they are having a baby and this is due to progesterone stimulating more sebum (oil) on the scalp - wash your hair frequently using mild shampoo.

Skin

Progesterone causes glands in the skin to produce more oil so you may find you break out in spots. Equally, your skin can become dry and itchy. Use a skin care range appropriate for your type of skin and moisturise daily. Avoid perfumed shower gels and bubble bath as these can dry your skin.

Stretch marks

These occur if the elasticity of the skin becomes over-stretched and appear as reddish lines, often on the breasts, stomach and thighs. It helps not to put on too much weight to wear a supportive bra and to moisturise regularly. After the birth, the lines will gradually begin to fade and become less noticeable.

Pigmentation

If you find your skin is more sensitive to the sun than normal, use a moisturiser that contains UVA protection. Some women develop a condition called chloasma, a butterfly-shaped mask of darker skin across the face. This can be concealed with make-up and will disappear after the birth.

Legs and feet

Tired, aching legs and feet are common when you are having a baby. Try to spend some time with your feet up every evening. Fluid retention sometimes causes your feet to get bigger so you may need to buy bigger shoes.

How to Care For Pregnant Rabbits

Many owners are not ready to handle their pet rabbit's pregnancy. Considering the high mortality rate of newborn bunnies, it is no surprise that many are confused as to what they should do. There are plenty of useful tips that owners can adopt and this starts by gathering the right information from reliable sources.

It is not encouraged to allow your bunny to get pregnant. There is already an overgrown of rabbit population in the world, and if you wanted another one, then you should consider getting them from an animal shelter. Bunnies may be cute but they grow up very fast and in many cases, they are abandoned when they are no longer cute.

However, if your rabbit is pregnant, there are good tips you can follow to care for them and raise the survival chances of its babies. A doe hide her pregnancy quite well. Even experienced vet sometimes made mistakes in their assessment when checking if there is pregnancy.

As a matter of fact, you can hardly notice any change of behaviour in the doe. The easiest way to tell if your female pet rabbit is pregnant is to see if she rejects the advancement of the buck. About two weeks after conceiving, you may be able to feel the foetus inside her womb. It feels marble-like.

The gestation period is between 28 to 31 days. During this time, just provide her with adequate food and water. She may begin her nesting process about one week before delivery. Some pet rabbits only started building her nest as little as three days or one day before delivery.

The doe build its nest by gathering hay and shredding newspaper. She will also pull fur from her own chest. Each rabbit's pregnancy may result in 7 to 13 kits (baby rabbits are called kits). It is not surprising to see the doe immediately leaving its kits after birthing. This may be inherited from their wild cousins to prevent attracting the attention of predator animals.

This may be the right time to check on the bunnies. Unlike other smaller animals, rabbits do not mind human touching their offspring. Check if the babies are warm. If they are not, then you can wrap warm water bottle with towel and place in the nest to help them stay warm.

As the mother rabbit nurse their young ones only twice a day and each nursing takes less than 5 minutes, you may need to play the role of surrogate parents. Suitable formulated milk powder and feeding bottle may be bought from pet store or from a vet.

Identifying Differences Between TED Hose & Compression Stockings

More and more individuals require either a TED Hose or Compression Stockings due to a variety of popular conditions, Diabetes, poor circulation, excess fluids (water retention) and D.V.T (Deep Vein Thrombosis) which is a blood clot in a deep vein, usually in the leg(s), both a TED Hose and a Compression Stocking will alleviate conditions related to the mentioned conditions. Medical professionals often identify both TED hose and compression stockings by the same title, TED hose, but there is a significant difference between them.

TED hose is frequently given to patients when they are in the hospital or medical facility. TED hose are designed for individuals that are non ambulatory, or lying down 95% of the time. The compression starts in the calf and decreases as it goes up the leg. The reason the compression starts in the calf, when we are lying down fluid tends to travel no further than our mid leg. The stockings will help push additional fluid from that position up through the lymphatic system, then out the body. TED hose are usually white in color and available as a thigh high or knee high style. Normal compression generally lasts two weeks; this is why when you're in a hospital or medical facility they consistently change your TED hose. In contrast to TED hose, compression stockings offer an array of styles and color choices; therefore they are both fashionable and comfortable. Compression stocking styles vary from knee high, thigh high, pantyhose, and maternity pantyhose.

Compression stockings are available in a sheer material, trouser sock, and athletic sock styles. Compression begins in the ankle and decreases as it goes up the leg. Individuals who have the ability to sit, stand, and walk have gravity working against them, gravity pulls away additional fluid from the upper and mid leg to the ankle and foot, thus eliminating swelling problems among others. When wearing a medical grade compression stocking, the compression begins at the forefoot and decrease as it goes up the leg pushing any extra fluid up and out of the area. Normal compression lasts six months giving the user more time before having to obtain replacement(s).

Certain circumstances allow a person to gain assistance with the purchase of compression stockings. Individuals whom are being treated for an open wound and/or ulcer have the opportunity to gain coverage from insurance as long as all necessary documentation has been made available to the provider. Typically, this consists of a prescription from your physician as well as a CMN (Certificate of Medical Necessity) completed by a wound care specialist. Most insurance differ in regards to coverage and reimbursement, be sure to check with both your doctor and your insurance to see if you are eligible to receive these products.

Choosing the Right Individual OR Group Health Insurance Plan

There are thousands of individual and group health insurance plans available to you, choosing the most appropriate one for you is more important than you may think! There is a reason Blue Cross has many different plans available, each one is designed for a specific type of person. I work as an insurance agent in Orange County, CA and come across plans far too often people have enrolled in years ago that are not right for them. I often find people paying for something they are not using, for example, it does not make sense for a single male to be on a health insurance plan that offers maternity benefits when he will not use them; why not choose a no maternity plan that may be less expensive.

Every insurance company whether it be Blue Cross, PacifiCare, Aetna, Blue Shield or Kaiser have plans designed specifically for you. If you rarely go to the doctor and you are just looking for a plan that covers you just in case they have plans available to fit that need. If you are someone who wants to get annual checkups and pay very little when you go to the doctor, they have a plan for you! My point is you need to make sure you fully understand all plans available and get the input from an unbiased insurance agency.

Also make sure you are up-to-date with your plan. It becomes very advantageous to work with someone who can inform you when there are updated plans available. If you are enrolled in the same plan you were in several years ago, chances are there is a updated plan available which may be less expensive and/or increased benefit!

Working with an Insurance Agency can be very beneficial. Most Insurance Agencies do not charge excess commissions, they get compensated directly from the carrier (Blue Cross, Kaiser, etc.) the monthly insurance premiums do not affect the consumer whether they go to an Insurance Agency or direct to the carrier.

For a FREE complete review of your current Group OR Individual insurance plan, or for a quote, please contact our California offices.

Top Doctors Reveal Why Dha During Pregnancy is Highly Recommended

The topic of DHA during pregnancy has recently become an area of great interest for scientists and doctors. DHA, as you might know, is a type of omega 3 fatty acid that is commonly found in fish oil. DHA is also found within every cell in our body and is crucial for the proper functioning and development of the eyes, brains and the central nervous system.

When it was discovered exactly how vital a role DHA plays in the physical and cognitive development of infants, scientists soon asked the question of whether supplementing the mother's diet with DHA during pregnancy would help the baby in any way. Research conducted in this area revealed not only that taking DHA while pregnant was essential for the healthy development of the infant, but also that most pregnant women do not get the recommended amount.

Other studies and articles published in Pediatrics journals show that children whose mothers took supplements of DHA while pregnant score higher on intelligence test compared to children whose mothers did not. They also displayed longer attention spans, better cognitive and motor skills and IQs of up to 10 points higher than other children.

Deficiencies of DHA during pregnancy can inhibit the cognitive development of your fetus, leading to visual impairment and numerous other health complications. From the mother's perspective, lack of DHA consumption while pregnant can also increase the risk of premature delivery and postpartum depression.

If you are an expecting mother, including a supplement of DHA during pregnancy will help both you and your baby. In order to make sure that your baby is getting adequate amounts of DHA without being exposed to toxic contaminants, taking a good fish oil supplement with your diet is a much better idea than eating actual fish. All fish contain trace levels of mercury and other toxic metals which can severely damage your health if the fish is improperly cleaned or under-cooked. Fish oil supplements are a much safer choice as manufacturers have to follow a rigorous process of cleaning the fish and distilling and purifying the oil before it can be sold on the market. As a result, fish oil supplements are the safest and easiest source of DHA during pregnancy.

Now it's time to start putting these facts in to practice. Giving your baby the best start possible is as simple as supplementing your diet with a good quality fish oil supplement.

Date - A Wonder Fruit of Arabia

Dates are the fruits of the date palm tree which is a food of high nutritional value. They are used abundantly in the month of Ramadan when Muslims fast from dawn to dusk. The sweetness of the date takes the edge off hunger and this is another reason why fasts are opened with dates. This prevents a person from overeating after he has opened his fast.

Dates contain calcium, sulphur, iron, potassium, phosphorus, manganese, copper, magnesium, volatile oils, Vitamin-B6, folic acid, Potassium, Iron and Magnesium, proteins, sugars, vitamins and are rich in natural fibers which contribute to a healthy body and mind.

Dates provides natural sugar in the form of glucose and fructose which is ready for immediate absorption and, is infinitely far superior to cane-sugar.

Eating dates has great benefits which can be illustrated as follows:

Prevents Cancer: Dates are very nutritious and contain natural fibres. Modern medicine has shown that they are effective in preventing abdominal cancer. In general Bedouin Arabs, who eat them on a regular basis, show an extremely low incidence rate of cancer.

Weak heart: Dates are an excellent remedy for weak heart. Dates soaked overnight should be taken twice a week which strengthens the heart.
Bedouin Arabs who regularly consume dates have shown an extremely low rate of heart disease.

Treatment for Obesity: The wide variety of nutritious elements in dates makes it hunger-resistive! So treatment by eating few dates when feeling hungry helps reduce hunger and be filled. These dates will provide the body with the necessary sugar and stimulate the intestine which reduce hunger greatly, and eventually, reduce food consumption.

Eases child-birth: Eating dates eases the pain of childbirth. Scientifically they are known to contain hormones which strengthen the uterus, help produce milk for nursing mothers and also prevent blood loss after childbirth. (The ripe fruit contains a substance that urges uterine spasms and increases contractions especially in the time of delivery. This substance resembles 'oxytocin' that is secreted by pituitary gland, which encourages contractions of the uterus. Dates contain some stimulants which strengthen the muscles of the uterus in the last months of pregnancy. This helps the dilation of the uterus at the time of delivery and reduces post-natal bleeding).

Ideal for breast-feeding mothers: Dieticians consider dates the best food for breast-feeding mothers. This is because dates contain elements that assist in alleviating depression and enrich the breast milk with the nutrients needed to make the child healthy and resistant to disease.

Bones: Calcium is important for strong bones so this is an additional benefit that dates provide. As dates are rich in calcium, they contribute to healthy bones. For this reason it is recommended that children and older adults, especially women, eat plenty of dates to strengthen their bones.

Modern science has also proved the effectiveness of dates, in preventing diseases of the respiratory system.

Intestinal Disturbances: Eating dates in the morning on an empty stomach kills intestinal worms and other parasites, for dates have an antidotal potency which restrains their growth. According to Metchnikoff, a great Russian scientist, liberal use of dates keeps in check the growth of pathological organisms and helps to establish a colony of friendly bacteria in the intestines.

Improves Eye sight: Dates are also important in maintaining good vision and are effective in guarding against night-blindness.

Cures constipation: Dates are also highly beneficial in the treatment of constipation as the roughage provided by it stimulates sluggish bowels. They should be immersed in water at night and taken after making them into fine syrup the next morning to secure laxative effect.

Remedy for Sexual Debility: Date syrup can be used as a treatment for weak heart. It can also be use for the treatment of sexual weakness. When it's mixed with milk and honey, dates can be used as a tonic for the treatment of sexual disturbances for both sexes. And such syrup strengthens the body and raises its energy levels. The elderly would benefit from this syrup too. It improves their stamina and purges their bodies from the toxins that have accumulated in their cells along the years.

Remedy for Liver and Inflammations: Dates remedy Lever and purge it from toxins, Breaking the fast with dates, is one of the most magnificent of natural remedies for the maintenance and purging the Lever from accumulated toxins. And also drinking dates juice could be used in the treatment of sore throat, various types of fever, rhinorrhia and common cold.

Remedy for Intoxication: Dates are an excellent remedy for alcoholic intoxication. In such a case, drinking water in which fresh dates have been rubbed or soaked will bring quick relief

Children's Disease: Dates tied to a wrist of the baby and allowed to be sucked during teething period hardens the gums and also prevents other complaints like restlessness and diarrhea.

In short sentence, one date satisfies the minimum requirements of a balanced and healthy diet - so cultivating a healthy habit of eating dates miraculously preserves our health and attains longevity.

Health Insurance During Pregnancy - Finding Out Your Coverage

Your newborn needs to be taken care of on arrival. When you choose a good maternity hospital, you also need to have good insurance during pregnancy. Costs of normal delivery are comparatively lesser as compared to a cesarean section. It is not only the delivery expenses that you have to consider. There will also be various examinations, tests and various other expenses which need to be looked into besides the delivery charges. Once you have planned the pregnancy, the best thing to do is investigate details about and find out more about your coverage.

Covering financial hassles during pregnancy:

Pregnancy as well as delivery involves a lot of hassles financially and after the baby is born there are a lot of visits to be made to the pediatrician, getting the baby immunized etc. Due to any reason if you have to give up your job while you are pregnant, you may find it strenuous to maintain your budget. Not many women get themselves insured when they are pregnant and it may become difficult getting insured after they're pregnant. As per the rules of many providers any pre-existing pregnancy related condition is considered as a 'category', which has its own fine print. Many a times, emergency medical treatment is needed, because of which many healthcare providers hesitate to cover pregnant women.

Waiting periods could extend over a couple of months and higher premiums are required to be paid in health insurance coverage for pregnancy. A better idea would be to obtain a health insurance policy before you get pregnant since then the premium amount is not very high. An important issue to be considered however is the duration of the waiting period. Once a woman is pregnant, she has to go for periodic checkups, tests and diagnosis of the trimesters on a regular basis which cannot be avoided at any cost and this makes consideration of special health care insurance still more important.

Individual and group health insurance plans:

Many of the health insurance companies also charge something called the optional rider which is a kind of extra premium. Each time a premium is paid, the optional rider also has to be paid but you have the option of dropping the rider, for which you need to understand details of health insurance during pregnancy - finding out your coverage, and other essentials of the fine print.

Employers these days provide health insurance coverage to all those employees who have worked for a specified number of years in the company. This includes maternity coverage. Make necessary inquiries with officials at your company so that you can obtain coverage while you are pregnant. Once you obtain such health insurance you don't have to worry as all medical bills and all expenses related to pregnancy are covered by the health insurance plan. Many companies also provide group insurance which is comparatively less expensive than the individual health insurance plan. Just in case you change your job, the old insurance plan can be continued at the new company you will be joining, once provisions for timely payouts are made.

How To Prevent Stretch Marks in Pregnancy

Most women will get stretch marks somewhere on their body during pregnancy. Stretch marks or striae gravidarum are thick, linear bands that present on the abdomen, bottom and thighs, arms and breasts. When they first appear they will usually look like angry streaks that are red, purple or pink in colour. Stretchmarks usually appear in the final months when women have a sudden abdominal growth spurt and changes in hormone levels which may have an effect on the skins elasticity and strength.

It is no surprise that the main site for stretchmarks are the abdomen and breasts, both being areas that see an expansion. There are other specific indicators to being more susceptable to getting stretch marks. These are;

•younger maternal age during pregnancy
•family history of striae, non-white race
•excess weight gain during pregnancy
•higher maternal body weight, carrying a larger baby

Preventing and Managing Stretch Marks

Most women may have a genetic disposition to stretch marks and this is something we can do little about however there are ways to support the skin in order to limit their severity. Good nurtrition, exercise and using a good moisturiser can help deal with stretch marks and even prevent them.

Excessive Weight Gain

Since excessive weight gain appears to be a contributing factor to the development of stretch marks, it is important for women to maintain a healthy and appropriate weight during their pregnancy. The NHS suggests that women should gain anywhere between 8 and 14 kilos during pregnancy depending on if they are underweight or overweight at the start of their pregnancy.There are also added benefits for not gaining excess weight during diabetes - these would include the development of gestational diabetes and pre-eclampsia - both being high risk factors for pregnancy.

Nutrition and Exercise

Having regular exercise and making sure you eat the appropriate foods in pregnancy can help you put on weight gradually and adequately for your benefit and for the health of your growing child.

Natural Skincare Products

One way of managing or preventing stretch mark scaring is to use a product designed specifically for the purpose - the focus of which would be to smooth and toning the skin as well as restoring vital lost moisture. There are some lovely ingredients that are used for scar reduction, moisturisation and firming and toning the skin. These include rosehip oil, shea butter, olive oil and frankincense.

Rosehip
Rosehip seed oil is high in the essential fatty acids linoleic fatty acid and linolenic fatty acid otherwise known as Vitamin F. Rosheip oil is great for cell regeneration, a must for helping the body prevent and heal stretch marks.

Shea Butter
Shea buttter comes from processing and extracting the oil from the nut of the karite tree. It is a rich and grainy butter that has excellent moisturising properties and has been used for centuries by the people of Africa for cooking and for caring for the skin. It is also good for people who suffer from dry and irritable skin conditions like eczema and psoriasis, helping to protect and aid in healing.

Olive Oil
Olive oil ontains squalane,a emmolient that closely resembles human sebum; Oleocanthal- a non steroidal anti inflammatory and antioxindent agent; Phenols which are also antiinflammatory and anticoagulant and chlorophyll, thought to help heal the skin. All helping to regerate and make the skin glow.

Frankincense
Found from East Africa, the middle east (Oman, Yemen) and India, Frankincense oil comes from the gum of the tree. The oil is high in boswellic acid, a substance that has proven anti-inflammatory activity. There is reliable evidence that boswellic acid, when introduced into beauty products can improve the texture and elasticity of skin.

When applied topically these creams can have great benefit for keeping the skin supple, moisturised and aid with toning the skin.

Am I Too Old to Get Pregnant? 5 Ways to Conceive at Any Age

If you are of "advanced maternal age" and your doctor is refusing you the opportunity to get pregnant, because he thinks you're "too old", think about all of the women who naturally got pregnant over 50 years of age:

• 
  Aracelia Garcia, aged 54 became naturally pregnant with triplets in 1994
  
  
  


• 
  Frances Harris, aged 59, became naturally pregnant with twins in 2004
  
  
  


• 
  Annie Leibovitz was 52 when she gave birth to her daughter Sarah in October 2001
  
  
  


• 
  Elizabeth Edwards gave birth to son Jack in 2000 at the age of 51
  
  
  


• 
  Ruth Kistler of Portland, Oregon gave birth to a daughter on October 18, 1956, at the age of 57 (this is before IVF was even invented!!)
  
  
  


• 
  Kathleen Campbell of Kimberley, Nottinghamshire gave birth to a son in 1987 at the age of 55, having conceived naturally
  
  
  


• 
  Dawn Brooke of Guernsey gave birth to a son on August 20, 1997, at the age of 59

As you can see, women can get pregnant at any age without the assistance of drugs or surgery. Personally, and in my own experience as a kinesiologist, I've never had a client aged 50 or over, but I've helped several women aged 44, 46, 47, 48, and 49 to get pregnant.

You can take control of your fertility and your health with natural remedies, and I recommend anyone over 35 who is having problems conceiving should do the following:

1. 
   Start taking an antioxidant formula - antioxidants help to repair free radical damage, and can reverse cellular aging. This is particularly important for improving the quality of your eggs, and keeping the reproductive organs young and healthy. I recommend AntioxiPlus
   
   
   


2. 
   Increase your intake of superfood fruits and vegetables - these fruits and vegetables are extremely nutrient dense, and provide your body with additional vitamins, minerals, macronutrients, as well as the energy required to reproduce. An easy way of doing this is by mixing a formula like AlkaGreens Plus into your morning juice.
   
   
   


3. 
   Do a body cleanse for fertility - older women have had a longer exposure to pollution than younger women... simply because they've been alive for longer. Gently detoxing the body, and strengthening the organs of elimination can double fertility, without the requirement for drugs or surgery
   
   
   


4. 
   Balance your hormones and triple your fertility with a herbal remedy like FertilPlus, which contains ingredients scientifically proven to increase fertility, and has had an excellent track record with helping women from countries all over the world to conceive. (There's even a FertilPlus for men that increases sperm counts, and improves sperm motility and morphology.)
   
   
   


5. 
   Reduce your stress levels, as it's been scientifically proven that the stress of trying to conceive is as harmful to your body as the stress of bereavement. Stress can put your hormones out of balance, which disrupts the menstrual cycle and ovulation, which prevent you from getting pregnant.

In my experience, women over 40 have more than one problem that is preventing them from getting pregnant. For example, there's fibroids, endometriois, PCOS, blocked fallopian tubes, PID, recurrent candida infections etc.

If this is you, my advice would be to tackle these conditions while trying to conceive, by combining a body cleanse with an organic herbal remedy specifically designed for the condition. This is because removing any of the obstacles to getting pregnant will help you to conceive at an advanced maternal age.

Beat Depression Naturally - Top 10 Secrets to Beat Depression Naturally

Beat depression naturally is an effective treatment method that could possibly give better results. Depression is a state of mental illness which can affect anyone and at any time. A mental state of depression might be the result of circumstances such as losing a closely related person, experiencing a traumatic condition, and facing severe financial problems. Many women suffer from this problem shortly after giving birth which is known as post natal depression. Curing depression naturally is a tough task to be carried out all alone. However, with persistent efforts and with the help of experts, it is always feasible to get good results.

It is recommended to stay away from chemicals as they might have harmful side effects. Treat depression naturally is all about tackling depression without the external help of medication. There are so many natural techniques to cure depression. It is said that prevention is better than cure. Similarly, one should have healthy life style to prevent himself from such defects. Lack of energy, sleeplessness, lack of interest in work and life, feeling alone and alienated are some of the symptoms. Natural depression treatments will try to cure these symptoms and help you to recover. Here are some of the healthy tips to beat depression naturally.

1. Be a self motivated person so that you will never run out of energy. This will eliminate unwanted situations where you will want to be alone or irritated.


2. It is good to have regular exercises everyday. This will take away the stress in life and will pump in lease of blood so that you remain active. Walking is considered to be the best exercise which is a natural cure for depression.


3. Eat lots of vegetables and fruits. This is a good way to remain healthy. Banana is rich in Vitamin B which is very good for health.


4. It is good take essential oil in the daily bath as a part of natural depression treatments to massage your body. Clary sage, ylang-ylang, geranium, basil oils are some of the essential oils which can be even burnt. Do not over use as it might have opposite effects in the body.


5. Do not remain in the house for a longer period of time. Just get out and walk at least for ten minutes. Enjoy the fresh air outside and chill out.


6. If you live alone then try to spend most of your time with your friends and neighbors. Being alone will leave you in a severe state of depression. Communicate frequently with people to avoid the state of loneliness and this is an integral part of curing depression naturally.


7. It is good to stimulate your mind to reignite your love and passion. If you engage your mind constantly then you will not think about your problems often.


8. Yoga and meditation can work wonders when practiced sincerely. This is one of the effective parts in treating depression naturally.


9. Eliminate all kinds of negative thinking from your mind which is the root cause of all the problems.


10. Avoid meeting people with negative mindset which will change your life altogether. This is one effective way to beat depression naturally.

3D Ultrasound - The Pros and Cons

A 3D ultrasound is able to achieve remarkably clear images by utilising the same sound waves used in a 2D ultrasound but bending them in different angles. The clarity of the images available offers many advantages over 2D ultrasounds, but it also comes with some disadvantages.

Pro

A 3D Ultrasound provides a more detailed image of the baby than a traditional 2D Ultrasound. The images are more lifelike and give a great indication of what your baby's physical features will look like. A 3D ultrasound is able to give a very clear image of the babys facial features after the fifth month.

Unlike a traditional 2D Ultrasound it is not necessary to have a full bladder in order to obtain a clear image. Needless to say this is a great relief to expectant mothers.

Con

The remarkably clear images can provide a false sense of reassurance that there are no underlying physical problems with the unborn baby. Mothers to be may decide that getting a 3D ultrasound is the cheap alternative to a more substantial prenatal care program and may discontinue this prenatal care under the assumption "everything is ok." While a good tool for determining the physical condition of an unborn baby. 3D ultrasound should never completely replace all other prenatal care options.

Can give a false indication of the health of the baby i.e. does not always accurately represent physical deformities. These "false positives" can become more of an issue with an inexperienced ultrasound technician. For example; harmless fetal cysts detected by 3D ultrasounds, may lead to further and more invasive tests can contribute to additional anxiety by the mother. There is also the possibility of "scanning artifacts" such as duplicated body parts, holes and unusual clefts, which usually go away after the ultrasound probe has been moved slightly. An inexperienced technician might be guilty of making this error. Again this can cause undue stress and anxiety to the mother.

Ultimately the decision to go for 2D or 3D ultrasound is influenced by the level of information the expected mother wishes to receive. Sometimes too much information is not a good thing, however, and it can lull you into a false sense of security. Sometimes it is exactly what you need. In the end the choice is yours.

Is Pregnancy Brain Real?

Have you forgotten any important information lately? Telephone numbers? Names? Appointments? Places you've put things?

If so, you're probably experiencing PREGNANCY BRAIN!

For those of you who, in the past, might have laughed at your girlfriend who suggested it was a REAL excuse - let me tell you, pregnancy brain is a REAL phenomenon and it affects over 50% of women.

There is research out there that suggests that a woman's brain does SHRINK during pregnancy! The question is - does it grow back? (Keep reading for my opinion on that one!).

Research or not - I know I had PREGNANCY BRAIN! I could hardly remember where I parked my car never mind where I actually put the keys for it (and normally I'm very responsible with things like that!).

I also found that not only was I forgetful, I was also clumsy and sloppy (every time I drank water I had a hard time finding my mouth!)

So, worry no more, cut yourself some slack, and chalk your "forgetfulness" up as yet another pregnancy symptom!

In fact, with all the changes you've got going on in your body, not to mention all of the important decisions you've got to make (pregnancy tests, cloth diapers vs. disposables, epidural or not, color of your baby's room etc.), it's no wonder you're not 100% mindful!

And what happens to your "shrunken" brain after delivery? Based on my personal experience, I am sorry to say it, BUT the forgetfulness doesn't completely go away the moment you deliver (nuh-uh!). Take it from me - my daughter is 19 months and I still often find myself going to the grocery store for diapers, coming home and THEN realizing I have bought everything else BUT what I went in for!

On a more serious note - I really believe that your degree of Pregnancy Brain (or not!) is reflective of the level of stress, overwhelm, and/or "busyness" in your life. So, here are some TIPS to help you take charge of your life:

8 Ways to Reduce the Pregnancy Brain Drain...

1. Keep a small notebook - jot down reminders, names, appointments;

2. Write a daily "to-do" list - this will help you remember what you need to get done (like buying diapers!);

3. Relax - plan time every day to do things like read a book or take a bath (lukewarm, of course!);

4. X-or-size (if you can) - move your body and breathe in the fresh air, O2 does wonders for your body and your mind. Check out my pregnancy and post pregnancy exercise program

5. Take a break - "time outs" work wonders for gathering your thoughts;

6. De-stress - unload that negative energy with a treat, like a massage or a mindless movie;

7. Grab a few winks - rejuvenate with a little sleep; and last, but not least...

8. Put your car keys in the same place each day (sound like a familiar frustration?)!

Pregnancy brain is real. It's also a great excuse - so have FUN using it for the next 40+ weeks!

For lots more TIPS to on HOW to take charge of your pregnancy, specific exercises you CAN and CANNOT do safely, and which foods are beneficial to eat and which to AVOID, read my kit at...