Saturday, November 30, 2013

Postpartum Depression: What You Should Know


The early signs of postpartum depression, range from gentle irritation, to feelings of loneliness. These can be followed by a heightened feeling of frustration and inadequacy. As the abjection worsens, the patient does not at all want to get out of bed, and ends up disturbing her sleep, and feasting on routine as well.

Nearly all accepted signs of postpartum depression begin practically right after childbirth. These worsen, as the patient shows curtailment of matter in the baby, or even bad feelings towards the baby. The patient feels anxious about the baby. Alternatively, the patient could lose concern in the self also. There is a loss of pleasure, motivation and energy. The patient starts feeling good-for-nothing and guilty about non-existent issues.

There are changes in appetite and hunger also. Disorder in the sleep cycle can be followed by thoughts of committing suicide. Some women might experience a delayed onset of postnatal depression. The Edinburgh Postnatal Depression Scale (EPDS), is a screening tool that detects postpartum depression. It requires filling out a form on the basis of your effects that you can subsequently discuss with your doctor.

If postpartum depression is not at all treated, it can get into postpartum psychosis. This is a rare, but very serious problem that can start right after childbirth. It includes disconnection from reality, and includes a high possibility for both infanticide and suicide. Hospitalization is required. Postpartum psychosis could manifest suddenly in the first two weeks after having given birth. The signs contain hallucinations, delusions, critical anxiety, confusion and disorientation. Increasing mood swings occur in both postnatal depression, and postpartum psychosis.

Women who have some history of any bipolar disturbances have an expanded possibility of advancing into postpartum depression, or psychosis. Nearly all new mothers dismiss slight feelings of dullness and mood swings, as passing 'baby blues', but these signs ought to not at all be taken lightly.

Conventional medicinal system depends on antidepressants and muscle relaxants, to cure the signs of postpartum depression. Drugs have side symptoms. Additional psychotherapy might not be of much use either. What is required is a holistic approach to treat the signs of postnatal depression with natural and herbal cures that are safe. Some of the best natural cures when joined with a holistic approach, could perform wonders. A careful alteration in diet, adopting of a suitable exercise regime, and counseling, would help treat this condition permanently.

Family support is vital in not only recognizing the signs of postnatal depression, but in helping treat it correctly. Ironically, some new fathers might also face postpartum depression, though their percentage is quite low, as compared to women. Would-be parents who are aware of the effects of postpartum depression can work together to handle the signs perfectly, and effectively even before the despondency sets in.

If you are pregnant, or trying to be, you should read up on postpartum depression.

You can read more about womens health issues at my blog:

Please visit: http://www.womens-health-blog.natural-health-cureguides.com

Be Well.

Steve Stanley

How to Relieve Headache & Migraine Pain While Pregnant


Pregnancy is three trimesters on a big hormonal roller coaster. For some women, these changes in hormones can bring blessed relief from migraines, especially in the second and third trimester. But for others, the hormonal fluctuations of pregnancy can be the trigger that causes migraines. So what's a woman to do to find headache relief pregnant? Is there help? Yes! You have a range of options. But before trying any of them, see your doctor to discuss which option is right for you and your baby. Also, if your migraine headache is accompanied by fever, blurred vision, lasts for hours or returns often, see your physician immediately.

The first and easiest thing you can do to prevent a migraine headache while pregnant is to avoid migraine triggers. The most common triggers are caffeine, chocolate, foods containing monosodium glutamate, cheeses and processed meats. A healthy, balanced diet during pregnancy is achievable even when avoiding these foods. If chocolate is a mandatory food group in your pregnancy, you can give yourself a chocolate trial to see if it is the culprit. If it isn't...INDULGE!

The second thing you can do is RELAX! Slow down for a few minutes every day and take a break from the pressures of your life. Lying down in a quiet room and deep breathing can do wonders to bring stress levels down. If this is your first pregnancy, take advantage of this time while you don't have other children to care for...let others do for you, and say YES to all offers of help.

Regular exercise has been proven effective in migraine relief. Exercise is not only an excellent tension reducer, but it also increases blood circulation and oxygenation in the body, helps rid your body of toxins, helps you sleep better and boosts endomorphins, your body's natural pain fighters, among other things. Thirty minutes of moderate exercise daily can go a long way towards long term relief from migraine pain. Do it all in one shot, or break it up into smaller 10 minute segments, whichever works best for your schedule.

Many alternative or natural options can offer migraine headache relief pregnant. There are a number of medicine free options that can be very effective in relieving migraine pain. Massage and/or aroma-therapy are two great medication-free options. Essential oils including lavender, sandalwood and peppermint are an especially effective headache cure and can be diluted in water (5 drops in a basin of water) and applied on a compress to the neck, or used in a massage oil. Massage to the feet or the web of skin between the thumb and first finger are effective pressure points for headache pain relief.

Alternating hot and cold compresses relieves migraine pain in many women. For some, plunging ones hands into a basin of hot water is helpful. Others find relief from a cloth-wrapped ice pack placed directly on the site of the pain, or to the back of the neck. Hot packs placed on the stomach or back can also divert blood flow from the head and offer relief.

If you still are fighting migraine headache pain after trying the methods mentioned above, check with your doctor, as there are herbs and medications that can be taken safely during pregnancy. Acetaminophen (Tylenol) is the most commonly recommended pain reliever during pregnancy. It is available over the counter and is considered safe to take while pregnant. Never take ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin), naproxen (Aleve) or aspirin without permission from your doctor. These medications are part of the NSAID class and are to be avoided during pregnancy without a doctor's supervision. At this point there are no preventative migraine medications classified in the lowest risk category for pregnancy. Depending on the severity of your migraines and the impact on your quality of life, however, the benefits of many of these medications may outweigh the risks. Certain narcotics and some preventative drugs such as beta-blockers and anti-depressants can be used during pregnancy under a doctor's supervision. This is a decision that only you and your doctor can make together based on your own personal risk-benefit ratio.

There are many herbal supplements than have been shown to be safe and effective for preventing, treating or reducing migraine pain. The most common herbs for migraines are peppermint, feverfew, passion flower, gingko, cayenne and butterbur. Like with prescription medication, check with your physician about the safety of using any of these supplements during pregnancy. Being an herb does not automatically guarantee it is safe to take while pregnant. Many of these herbs have strong medicinal qualities and need to be cleared before taking while pregnant.

So what's the best way to achieve headache relief pregnant? As you can see, there are many remedies and treatment options you can try if you are experiencing migraines or severe headaches while pregnant. Feel free to experiment with food changes or any of the home remedies recommended above on your own, but consult your doctor before trying any medications or herbal treatments. With a little experimentation and luck, you will find the perfect combination of methods to relieve your migraine pain while pregnant and hopefully pamper yourself a little in the process!

Health Insurance Quotes Online - 3 Questions to Answer Before You Shop


Ready to shop for health insurance quotes online? Maybe -- maybe not. Shopping for any type of insurance usually requires the shopper to make a number of on-the-spot decisions, so it helps to have your priorities firmly in mind before you begin. If you want to avoid a mind-numbing shopping experience, you may want to write down the answers to the following 3 questions -- before you fire up your computer and start shopping for online quotes.

1. How flexible are you? Do you have your heart set on seeing a specific doctor, or receiving medical care at a specific hospital? If so, you will want to start your shopping process by ruling out all Health Maintenance Organizations (HMO's), which are very restrictive about using their "in network" health care providers.

On the other hand, if you have been referred to a particular HMO, ask them up front whether or not your favorite providers are included in their network. If not, you'll want to look elsewhere -- perhaps a PPO that provides more flexibility.

2. How healthy are you? Are you looking for a specific kind of coverage? Keep in mind that health insurance coverage comes in all shapes, sizes and flavors and what is necessary for your neighbor isn't necessarily the right kind of coverage for you. Think about your lifestyle and decide whether or not any of the following optional benefits are important to you -- prescription drug coverage, mental health benefits, maternity care, vision care, dental, or chiropractic care. If you don't expect to need these benefits, there is certainly no point in paying for them in your policy.
 
On the other hand, make sure you are including optional coverage that you are likely to need. For example, if you have any thought of starting a family in the near future, maternity benefits are an absolute necessity as they will be prohibitively expensive or impossible to purchase once a pregnancy has occurred.
 
3. How much deductible can you afford? Early in the quote-seeking process, you will need to declare the amount of deductible you are seeking. Remember, the higher the deductible, the lower your premiums. It is generally advised that you accept the highest deductible being offered, even if it seems like a financial stretch -- the lower premiums will usually out-weigh the deductible over time.

Once you have a firm grasp of the flexibility, coverage and deductible that you're seeking, you're ready to begin shopping for health insurance quotes online [http://www.shop-health-insurance-quotes.com/health-insurance-quotes-online.html]. If you need help finding the right quote provider, please visit the website recommended below.

Importance of Using Compression Stockings and Other Foot Care Products


The present working conditions include long working hours which is one of the main causes of stress and other issues. Most of us sit for long hours which create several feet problems due to lack of leg movements and blood circulation. It is recommended to exercise on a daily basis but not all of us have enough time for exercising. This is one of the main reasons why foot care products are introduced these days.

Here are some details about few foot care products:

Compression stockings and support hosiery

Compression stockings and compression support hosiery are known to be one of the best remedies for foot problems. They help in regulating blood circulation in the lower part of the body. Nowadays, you will find that these stockings are available in different styles, colours and shapes. Thus, you can buy the one which suits your needs.

Compression stockings and compression support hosiery are designed in such a way that they apply appropriate pressure on the legs. This pressure helps the blood to circulate in your legs properly.

Diabetic socks for men and women

Nowadays, many people suffer from diabetes. And one of the common problems faced by diabetic patients is diabetic foot. To solve these conditions,diabetic socks have been introduced in the market. These socks are designed in such a way that they control the moisture in the foot area which decreases the risk of infection in the feet.

Maternity support hose

Wearing a maternity support hose is necessary to take care of your body during pregnancy. A maternity support hose helps in resolving blood circulation problems in your legs. In addition to this, it helps in reducing swellings and also prevents several future varicose veins.

Thus, the above mentioned foot products help in keeping you fit in several situations.

Wholesale Clothing Business - How to Find Cheap Vendors of Wholesale Maternity Clothing


Out of all clothing niches, maternity clothing is the one which yields high profit with less investment. The reason behind this is the maternity clothes can be bought at a low price on wholesale and sold at a good price.

Buying maternity clothes on wholesale is simple nowadays. The technological development has made the purchase simple with the use of internet. You can look over the companies by simply sitting at your own residence and select a better company which offers it at low cost. Moreover you can opt for stores which offer the maternity clothes with discount or offer. There are many websites available for searching companies or stores which offer it at much discount.

You can also locate shops which are poor at present in selling and buy the maternity clothes at lesser amounts. It is also possible to find a store which offers them at a cost lower than the retail shops. You can buy a huge amount from them and make a good profit. You can also search for some special brands of maternity clothes through internet. You can trace the customer care numbers of such brands and make a business with them.

You can also buy factory seconds which are second rated due to minor defects. You can buy them at low costs and make a good profit. You should have a full check for these second rated products and sell it if only they do not have major defects. It is equally important to buy a sales tax id number as you seek for cheaper sellers. The sales tax id numbers will help you in making business with stores or companies which refuse to have dealing with individuals.

Almost all of the pregnant women wish to be dressed up with clothes, which are more comfortable and easy to wear. There is no wonder in the fact that many women love to wear them even after their delivery. So the maternity clothing business will prove to be a very profitable business immediately after few months of outset.

Depression Disorder, Eating


The longer an eating disorder goes untreated, the greater the chance there is of developing a depressive disorder, and yet at the same time, depression and other mental health problems are also known to increase the risk of developing an eating disorder. The fact is there is a relationship between depression and eating disorders and other mental health problems can coexist with both.

Both depression and eating disorders are becoming increasingly common. According to the Mental Health Foundation 10% of the population in the UK will experience some form of depression every year, and 2% of women as well as some men will suffer from an eating disorder. Anorexia is more likely to affect young women whereas bulimia is more likely to affect older women and is more common than anorexia. Compulsive eating affects both women and men equally and approximately 10% of all people with eating disorders are men.

What is a depressive disorder?

A depressive disorder can be defined as a set of symptoms ranging from mild to severe that coexist with overwhelming feelings of sadness and an inability to take pleasure in activities that were once enjoyed to the extent that they interfere with normal daily routines. There are several different types of depressive disorders including clinical depression, bipolar disorder or manic depression, post natal depression, seasonal affective disorder or SAD and post traumatic stress disorder. No one knows why some people become depressed and not others, but low self esteem is known to increase the risk of developing a depressive disorder and is also an underlying factor in eating disorders.

Symptoms of depression

o Feeling tired and lethargic for most of the time

o Persistent low moods and sadness, a feeling of despondency

o Sleep disturbances, either inability to sleep or sleeping too much

o A pessimistic outlook on life

o Feeling anxious and nervous

o Feelings of worthlessness or guilt, low self esteem

o Frightening and irrational thoughts

o Loss of pleasure in activities and lack of interest in sex

o Avoidance of social contact and social situations

o Changes in appetite involving either loss of appetite or an increased appetite and associated weight loss or weight gain

o Emotional outbursts for no apparent reason

o Irritability

Eating disorders

There are three main types of eating disorders and these include:

o Anorexia Nervosa - characterised by a fear of putting on weight to such an extent that the person doesn't eat or eats very little, sometimes to the extent that they can starve themselves to death. By controlling what, when, and if they eat, they feel safe, secure and in control. Feelings behind anorexia include a low self esteem, a distorted self image and fear of rejection. It is a potentially life threatening condition.

o Bulimia Nervosa - someone with bulimia eats copious amounts of food and then feel guilty and out of control so try to purge themselves by vomiting, starving themselves or taking laxatives. It is harder to detect than anorexia because the weight remains relatively stable and the sufferer keeps their behaviour hidden, it is also more common than anorexia.

o Compulsive eating - involves eating for comfort or for emotional security and is characterised by nibbling all day without being able to stop. People who eat compulsively are usually overweight. It can be a way of denying or avoiding problems and is often associated with low self esteem, feelings of worthlessness, loneliness and emptiness.

Possible triggers of depression and eating disorders

There is not a single cause that will trigger either depression or an eating disorder as combinations of factors are involved. For example:

o Stressful events and experiences such as problems at home, bullying, abuse, loss of someone close, rejection, failing at school or work, coping with puberty, worries about sexuality, etc. can all result in a extreme stress which can act as a trigger.

o Either physical or mental health problems can trigger an eating disorder or depression. For example, someone struggling with a physical illness or disability can become depressed. Depression or anxiety related disorders can trigger an eating disorder, and someone with an eating disorder can develop depression - both are linked.

o Low self esteem and feelings of insecurity or feeling out of control of ones life can increase the risk of developing depression or an eating disorder or both.

Some other psychological disorders that can accompany eating disorders include:

o Obsessive Compulsive Disorder

o Manic depression

o Panic disorders

o Anxiety disorders

o Post traumatic stress disorder

o Attention Deficit Disorder

At the root of eating disorders are negative feelings including low self esteem, guilt, shame, sadness, anger, stress, feeling deserving of pain and punishment, all of which can be symptoms of depression too.

Conclusion

The biggest step to combating both depression and any eating disorder is to admit there is a problem in the first place as many people will deny there is anything wrong and without appropriate treatment, these mental health problems can continue indefinitely, and can even be life threatening. It is absolutely essential to seek help from a qualified medical professional in order to receive an accurate diagnosis and the right treatment, support and guidance to ensure a full recovery.

Friday, November 29, 2013

Pregnancy and Childbirth - Five Tips for Pregnant Guys to Help Them Survive


Once the stick turns blue and a couple proudly announce to the world that they are having a baby, it prompts two very different reactions. The woman's friends will squeal with joy and offer congratulations, swiftly followed by gifts, including a few books, such as Vicki Iovine's "A Girlfriends Guide to Pregnancy." The guys don't get anything better than the pre-requisite jokes along the lines of "Who's the father?"

But when you think about it, which one out of the two of them is more likely to need an instruction manual? Women have practically been in training to have a baby ever since they could walk. They think about it and plan for it constantly, not to mention talking to their friends about it incessantly. And the guys? Not quite so much. Fatherhood is a remote place they have heard about, but never really intended to visit. Sort of like Kansas.

So what does a pregnant guy need to know to survive a journey that lasts longer than a baseball season, spring training and playoffs included?
Nine months probably isn't long enough to cover all of the material required, so let's just keep it to the bare essentials. Here are five tips that will make a pregnant guy's life a heck of a lot easier:

Never Argue With a Pregnant Woman

Even having a sensible conversation with someone who is likely to burst into tears while making a cup of tea is going to be difficult, so trying to have an argument is tantamount to suicide. You're dealing with a woman whose hormones are currently set one notch below rage, so good luck. The best thing is to rely on the fact she will forget whatever it was that annoyed her inside 10 minutes.

Never Suggest That Your Wife Wear Her Maternity Clothes

Yes, being pregnant is the obvious time to wear maternity clothes; yes, she bought them because she had grown too big for her normal clothes. But even after you have watched her try in vain to squeeze into every other piece of clothing she owns, you must not fall into the obvious trap. You might as well take a full page ad in The Times that says: My Wife Is Fat!

Never Believe Tales of Pregnant Women and Nymphomania

Sure, some guys will tell you that while their wife was pregnant, she went through a stage where she wanted sex all the time. Firstly, it simply isn't true; secondly, even if it were true, it's not going to happen to your wife. Your advances will be brushed aside with even greater speed than usual, with not even a hint of a face-saving excuse like a headache. Just give up now and get some books.

Never Be Seen Actually Looking at Another Woman

Being pregnant, your wife is sure of only two things. A) That she is unattractive. B) That you also think she is unattractive. Therefore by default, should you pay the slightest bit of attention to any woman, it is because you find her more attractive than your wife. Never mind the faulty logic of this assumption, as your wife no longer possesses logic. And as for trying to defend your honor, remember point 1.

Never Tell Your Wife What Childbirth Really Looks Like

Women describe childbirth as a "beautiful" experience. And it is, as long as you mean on an emotional level. The physical aspect is quite a bit more messy, but they can't see that. If you happen to be down the business end, you'll discover there's precious little romance in childbirth. It's actually much closer to the John Hurt scene from Alien. And you're going to be introduced to a whole new range of bodily fluids that are going to leave a lasting impression. However, when your wife asks you what the birth was like, "beautiful" is the correct response.

If every "Pregnant Guy" just follows these five simple steps, the nine-month journey to fatherhood will go an awful lot more smoothly -- for both parties. Then, having successfully survived pregnancy and childbirth, all you need worry about is actually raising your child. Don't worry, there are plenty more books for that.

What to Do If You Can't Afford Health Insurance


Do You Lack Health Insurance?

If you are an American, and you lack health insurance, you are not alone. In late 2009, it was estimated that almost 46 million people in the US do not have a health plan. Recent high unemployment figures have not made this figure any lower.

Some of these people lost their group health plans when they lost their job. Others are self employed or work for a company that does not offer group health. There are alternative private health plans on the market, but many people just cannot afford them, or they cannot get accepted by one. While politicians haggle over the issues, sick people are having trouble getting treatment.

Are You Sick or Healthy?

If you are very healthy, or if you already have a health issue, you should seek coverage. It will be, of course, a lot easier to find affordable private health insurance if you are healthy. This way you can be prepared in case you do get sick or get hurt in an accident. Even a simple trip to an emergency room for a broken bone can cost thousands of dollars.

If you have already are hurt or ill, it will be tough to get it covered by private plans now. But even people who are already sick should be able to find some help. I hope to present some options for you.

COBRA

Under federal law, some companies must extend their group medical plan to terminated employees. This can be a good option for those who are between jobs. The only issue with it is the cost. Instead of just paying your employee contribution, now you will probably also have to pay the whole premium amount. Many ex-employees are very surprised when they learn how much this is.

Individual Health Insurance

If you lack major medical, and you are fairly healthy, you may find that a private medical plan is pretty affordable. It is actually a misconception that group benefits are always cheaper than individual plans. Because insurers can underwrite each applicant, they may actually be able to offer lower rates for healthier people.

If you have an option to extend your group benefits (i.e. COBRA) or buy private coverage, just make sure the new plan will accept you, and that it will cover services you need. It is tough, for instance, to get individual plans that cover normal maternity. But if you are accepted, which most people in reasonably good health should be, and the plan satisfies your needs, you may be vary happy with carrying your own health plan.

State Risk Pools

Every US state has some sort of health plan for people who have a pre-existing health problem that gets them declined for other coverage. In some states, these plans can be very expensive though. This is a good option if you do have income or savings, but just do not have health insurance.

Paying For Prescriptions

If you cannot afford your prescription medicine, consult the Partnership for Prescription Assistance (PPARX). Their website is PPARX.org. This organization offers a point of access to hundreds of private and public assistance programs. Their website says they have helped millions of Americans get help, and they may be able to help you.

Low Cost Health Clinics

You can find some lower cost health clinics. Many offer health services on a sliding scale. The PPARX website we mentioned about also has a handy search feature. You can enter your zip code and see if you can find a nearby locations. I entered my own zip code for a test, and I was surprised to see that there were several of these clinics within a short drive of my house. I had not been aware that there were any before.

Financial Aid For Health Problems

If you have a serious illness, you may be able to get support from a financial assistance program. These are usually non-profits, and sometimes they are called co-pay programs. Again, PPARX has information on many of these organizations.

County Health Systems

Try searching for a county or public health system in your own area. They should provide reduced fee services for patients. You will probably be locked into using their hospitals, doctors, etc., but you should have access to care.

Public Health Insurance Programs

If you have a very low income, and few assets, you may qualify for Medicaid. This is the federal and state program to insure the poor. Moderate income families should look at the Childrens Health Insurance (CHIPS) plan for their state. Income guidelines to cover kids are higher than those for adults, and these plans may also cover pregnant women.

What To Do If You Have No Health Insurance

I would tell anybody to figure out how they can obtain health insurance as quickly as possible. For instance, you should try to apply for a private policy when you are healthy! You are probably not going to find coverage from a private company after you are already sick or hurt. If you do find a plan that accepts you, it will probably be much more expensive That is how insurance works.

It is always better to plan ahead. Of course, this is not always possible.. If you have a current health issue, and no health plan, you should look at some of the alternatives we listed.

How to Stay Calm and Positive During Pregnancy


During pregnancy, people will give you all kinds of advice about what to do--some of it good, some of it not-so-helpful. While the list of things you have to get organised is long and detailed--everything from nappies to maternity wear and birthing classes--it's important to take this time to reflect, relax, and take care of YOU. After all, the next 18 years are going to be dedicated to taking care of an extra little person, so enjoy the time you have with yourself. Here are three ways in which you can get in touch with some inner peace and remain positive and content throughout your pregnancy.

Yoga

Yoga not only has a multitude of health benefits for the practitioner, but it has proven time and time again to help with stress and focus. There are specific prenatal Yoga classes you can attend, or otherwise just choose a very gentle and relaxing kind--Hatha is great--and do as much as feels comfortable. This isn't about becoming the most flexible person in the class or even keeping your figure--it's about learning to connect with your mind and body, release tension, and take a much-needed break from the stresses of daily life. If you prefer, you can do Yoga in the comfort of your own living room, making sure of course that you and your baby are comfortable throughout.

Meditation

You may or may not have had a lot of experience of meditation in the past but pregnancy is the perfect time to embrace this practice. There's no hard or fast way to meditate--you need to find what works for you, but one suggestion is to light some candles, play some relaxing music and sit still for about 10-15 minutes. Try to clear your mind of all the worries and stresses that have been running through your mind and watch your thoughts come and go. This takes a bit of practice--'watching' our thoughts is difficult to do without letting them sweep us up in shopping lists and daily chores--but if you can learn to detach a little bit from your thoughts you'll experience a profound relaxation, and your mind will be rejuvenated for the rest of the day.

Affirmations

Many believe that repeating positive affirmations is an excellent way to achieve happiness and a calm, relaxed outlook. Try repeating this one while you're in the shower:

"I am happy, healthy and capable. All is well and my baby is growing healthy and strong."

This is just a suggestion, you can replace this with any affirmation you like--as long as it is positive. Visualise what you want to happen--if you want more focus, don't say: "I will not get distracted", because then what you visualise is the distraction, not the solution. Instead, affirm to yourself "I remain calm and focused throughout the day" Saying your affirmation as if it is already fact tricks your subconscious into believing it--and you'll start to implement the procedures you need!

In the often frantic world of maternity dresses, baby name books and crib-shopping that is pregnancy, remember to take a little time out to work on your emotional health and well-being. You--and your child--will be grateful you did.

What is Postnatal Depression? Signs and Risk Factors


Postnatal depression is estimated to affect 1 in 5 women and is found in all cultural, social and age groups. There are different types of this condition experienced by mothers after birth. There is the 'Baby Blues' which usually occurs between the 3rd and 5th day and usually resolve by the 10th day. It is thought to be the response to hormone changes and the stress of giving birth and occurs in up to 70% of women.


  • Postnatal depression has a gradual onset between the 3rd and 9th month.

  • Postpartum Psychosis occurs in approximately 1 in 500 births and is quite rare. It seems to be genetically linked and typically occurs after the first baby. It presents as a manic depressive illness and requires urgent psychiatric treatment.

This condition results in a disturbance of mood, disturbance of thoughts and physiological disturbances. These disturbances and symptoms of postnatal depression will be discussed:

Disturbance of Mood

This includes the experience of a depressed mood, feelings of sadness, hopelessness, worthlessness, failure, shame, guilt, fear, anger and panic. Feelings of fatigue and exhaustion and the loss of sexual desire.

Disturbance of Thoughts

Poor concentration, loss of ability to plan and carry through tasks, poor memory, confused thinking, intrusive thoughts (eg thoughts of serious illness or death of self, baby or partner).

Physiological disturbance

The mother may experience sleep disorder such as difficulty falling asleep, early morning waking, always fatigued and exhausted. She may also experience stress symptoms such as panic attacks, tightness in the chest and stomach. Appetite changes, either a loss of appetite or overeating may be experienced.

Risk Factors

A number of factors are thought to contribute to postnatal mood disorders. Current research indicates that psychological, biochemical and environmental or social factors affect the onset of postnatal depression.

There are a number of factors that predispose a woman to this condition. One of the most significant risk factors is having a previous psychiatric illness or emotional problems. Women who have previously had depression, anxiety and bipolar disorder are at a greater risk.

Obstetric and gynecological problems impact a mother's physical health and can impact her emotional well being. This can include caesarean birth, permittivity, previous miscarriage, previous termination of pregnancy, neonatal death, and previous history of infertility.

If the baby or mother has problems post birth this can also increase the possibility of postnatal depression. Problems such as the baby experiencing gastric reflux, excessive crying, breastfeeding problems, sleep deprivation, low iron levels.

In addition environmental and relationship factors can impact a mother and predispose her to postnatal depression. Lack of support from ones partner or own mother can be significant. This may be through death, separation or conflict in the relationship. Furthermore a mother's isolation from extended family or friendship network can impact postnatal depression. This can be significant particularly for first time mothers who may shift from a busy life in full time work to being isolated at home. Women who would describe themselves as high achievers or perfectionists are at greater risk of postnatal depression as are women with anxious personalities. Finally if the woman experiences multiple stressors in her past or present life these may contribute to the onset of postnatal depression.

What Can a Man Do To Help His Woman Get Pregnant?


While most women are worried about what they can do to help in their efforts to get pregnant they don't tend to focus on the male until pregnancy does not seem to be happening easily. But women should be focusing on the male just as much as themselves when trying to get pregnant - after all, they do supply the sperm that have a big part in deciding whether you get pregnant at all! So men need to let their women know that they are doing all they can to help her get pregnant.

One thing men need to do is pay attention to their sperm. Sperm are continuously produced in the testicles all day and every day. What this means is that if a man does not ejaculate them at some point then the sperm that have been collecting in the testicles will age, and the older they get the smaller the chance they will be able to do their job properly.

With that in mind you may want to get rid of the old sperm through ejaculation about a week before the woman's ovulation and wait to have sex until ovulation is supposed to be occurring. This way you will be ensuring that the strongest and youngest sperm are present at the right time, and that you give yourself some time to build up some more sperm before ovulation so that you have the most available sperm to deposit during ovulation as well, because even though sperm are produced everyday they do take a while to build an army.

During ovulation only have sex one time per day. This will give you a chance to build up your sperm as much as possible every day as opposed to continuously ejaculating them out.

Some other things men can do to help prepare for conception are:

  • Wear loose fitting-clothes around their testicles.

  • Sleep naked at night and give everything a chance to breath and work properly.

  • Stay away from the heat including Jacuzzis and hot tubs which may affect both the amount of and strength of the sperm on hand.

  • Stay away from all the things that can affect the health of their sperm like drugs, alcohol, and other chemicals that can harm the sperm and potentially cause issues with the baby because of the unhealthy sperm.

  • Make sure to deposit the sperm as close to the cervix as possible. This means doing some deep penetration positions during sex like from behind or even missionary. (Yes sperm know where they are going but giving them an extra chance to get there won't hurt!)

Men have a huge part to play in the process of getting pregnant and they need to prepare their bodies just as much as the women do in order to have a quick, healthy pregnancy.

Fertility Food - Your No.1 Help In Getting Pregnant


Fertility foods are specific foods that are not only healthy but also target problem areas in your reproductive system. When you plan to have a baby, you not only have to avoid alcohol and eat a daily balanced diet, you also have to take servings of specific foods that actually boost fertility. Medical experts now agree that food plays a huge role in improving fertility.

Below are four non-vegan foods that can help boost fertility in both men and women. Although vegetarian and vegan diets are superior for health and optimal fertility and this site advocates switch to a mainly vegetarian/vegan diet, we do get requests from the meat-eaters on what to include in their diet that's not a seed or a vegetable or a fruit. So for the meat-lovers here it goes (vegans skip this article);

1. Fish roe

Fish roe are the fully ripe masses of fish eggs. They are rich in vitamin D, vitamin B12, omega-r fatty acids, DHA, EPA and trace minerals. Because they are extra rich in vitamins and minerals, fish roe can improve your fertility as well as aid lactation after your baby has been born. Fish roes have been used for centuries to help couples get pregnant. Nutritional researcher Weston A. Price has found out that roes are used by people in the arctic region as a means of improving fertility among men and women. He has also found out that people from far inland make great efforts to go to the sea and collect fish roe for their childbearing women to ensure healthy babies are born.

Men having problems fathering a child have been found to have significantly lower levels of omega-3 fatty acid in their sperm. Fish roes have high ratios of omega-3 fatty acids to omega-6 fatty acids, a ratio of 10 to 1, and so regular consumption of roes will increase the omega-3 levels in your body and help to improve fertility in both men and women.

Caviar, which is the roe of the oil-rich fish sturgeon, has the same high ratio of omega-3 to omega-6. Salmon fish roes are among the most potent roes for male and female fertility.

Studies have confirmed that regular supplementation of DHA, found in fish roes and cod liver, may help restore fertility in infertile couples. However do not self prescribe cod liver oil due to it's high vitamin A content.

2. Egg yolks

Egg yolks are very nutrient dense. They are rich in omega-3 fatty acids, choline, vitamin A and vitamin E. Choline is especially important in preconception and in the prenatal diet because it helps your baby develop a healthy nervous system. Researchers and medical experts are promoting adequate choline consumption, especially during pregnancy and lactation. Choline is essential in the healthy development of the teeth, and also the brain. Mothers who have adequate choline levels in their system have higher chances of giving birth to babies with good memory retention. Choline may also help decrease the cognitive dysfunction associated with Down Syndrome.

3. Shellfish

Shellfish, oysters in particular, are full of vitamin D, vitamin B12, minerals such as zinc, iron, copper and selenium. Consuming 6 medium-sized oysters can provide you with two thirds the daily requirement of vitamin D and three times the daily requirement for vitamin B12. Vitamin D is especially important for women planning to get pregnant because it helps inhibit glucose regulation, helps develop healthy bones and strengthens the uterus, preparing it for labor.

4. Liver, the not so popular fertility food, may be one of the most important foods for couples trying to get pregnant. It is rich in folate, pantothenic acid, vitamin B12, vitamin A, riboflavin and niacin. Folate and vitamin A are especially important because inadequate levels of these two have been found to cause birth defects, palate malformation and neural defects. Only buy organic liver.

With increased industrialization and commercialization, the nutrient-dense diets of earlier societies have changed to nutritionally deficient fast foods and processed foods. Strive for a balanced and organic diet. Be sure to integrate fertility food into your diet and you are well on your way to a babymaking fit body.

Thursday, November 28, 2013

Use Effective Herbs to Reduce Depression Naturally


Depression is a common psychological disorder of the emotional balance of the person. It is thought that depression may begin because of biochemical cerebration disorder, which is inherited. People who are sick with serious somatic diseases, have a long as well very stressful time or ones who are after psychological trauma is at the risk to get ill easier.

Depression occurs more for women than for men. For example, postnatal or menopause depression may occur sometimes.

This disease has clear symptoms. The first signs are a sad, melancholic mood which lasts for long and lack of energy, also pessimism. Nothing brings happiness and joy to that person. All the things which were important and delightful before, do not seem to have a meaning anymore. The other symptom is sleep disorders; patient either may over sleep or have difficulties to fall asleep at all. Eating disorders also are a serious sign of depression. Patient cannot concentrate, feels worried most of the time, thinks about death and suicide. Have in mind, if these symptoms or a few of them lasts for more than two weeks; you should visit your doctor.

Useful herbs: First of all, if you feel the signs of depression, visit your doctor. It is a serious disease and needs to be treated in a right way, so do not wait. Usually, depression is cured with various therapies and medicines (antidepressants). Sometimes it may get into a habit, so probably you will not be able to take them for long. If you want to try something more natural, herbal remedies are the right solution, which may brighten your mood or resume the treatment.

1. Black Hellebore: It is also known as Christmas rose. Juice and rhizome are poisonous in very big quantities, so you need to use it wisely, in very little amounts. It will improve the mood and also control the mania which sometimes occurs as a symptom of one of the types of depression.

2. Ginger: If you want to feel better, try ginger as it works like an antidepressant. It has been used for long and helped many people. Just be careful, cause big amounts of ginger may cause a heartburn.

3. Siberian Ginseng: It improves the balance of neurotransmitters in the brain, which are very important. Siberian ginseng is believed to improve immune system. Also it is beneficial because it improves concentration. Other things, people who are sick with diabetes can balance their sugar levels in the blood.

4. Ginkgo Biloba: Try to use this herb, it is very useful. Ginkgo biloba improves concentration, and memory. It relieves negative mood and feelings like anger, sadness, guilt, anxiety, irritation, etc. Other good things is that this herb improves blood flow in the whole body and makes a person active.

Other valuable herbs are borage, purslane, rosemary, clove, basil and others. Also try to use them for the best results.

In order not to get sick with depression; do not abuse alcohol, eat healthy food, be sure your diet is well-balanced, get enough sleep, avoid stress, be active and communicative, do the things you like, spend enough time in the open air.

Choosing Between Ethical Or Fair Trade Clothing


In order to make an informed choice between ethical and fair trade clothing, you must have a clear understanding of what the difference is between the two. The clothing industry is one that can be very volatile when it comes to fads, trends and clothing styles that can come and go with the blink of an eye. There are many extremes that come into the clothing industry and nearly just as quickly, their appeal is gone.

Some clothing styles go on to become legendary or what are known as classics that never lose their appeal even as the generations come and go. Over recent years, there has been a change in the clothing industry. So what exactly is ethical clothing and how does it differ from fair clothing? Let's examine both types.

Ethical clothing addresses a broad range of concerns that have been around about as long as the clothing industry itself. Some of the major concerns with clothing that is not ethical is that the clothing is produced by workers in factories or sweat shops where wages are an amount so low that workers cannot make a reasonable living to support themselves. The unfortunate reality is that there are many designs on the racks in your local stores that have been made by these workers. Ethical clothing demands that workers be paid what their labor is worth. Ethical clothing also mandates that the workers be give benefits such as maternity leave and insurance options.

The momentum for ethical clothing has not picked up because many clothing manufacturers experience significant cost savings by outsourcing work to these countries where the condition of life is so poor that people are willing to work for minimum amounts of money in substandard work conditions to survive. Clothing in the United States aimed at creating a better environment and better working conditions for people. The Fair Trade Federation provides a means for clothing lines to join but the membership criteria is strict. Fortunately, fair trade is also branching out into jewelry, personal care, candles, bedding, toys, games and paper goods. The difference between ethical and fair trade clothing is that clothing made by the latter takes the earth into consideration and provides clothing that is made from natural products.

When it comes to fair trade clothing, however, none of the major retailer chains carry fair trade clothing. This should not be a deterrent if you wish to purchase it, just look online and you will find many sources from which you can order such clothing.

Choosing between ethical clothing and fair trade clothing does not have to be a real dilemma. Ethical clothing is manufactured with respect to ensuring that laborers are not overworked and underpaid. Fair trade clothing uses organic materials that are green friendly and don't harm the earth's ozone when discarded or made from recycled materials.

Although the types are similar, there are some differences described here that should help you make a choice about whether you want to wear ethical clothing or fair trade clothing.

Exclusions in a Health Insurance Policy


What does a health insurance policy not cover i.e exclude?

The moment of truth in an insurance policy is at the time when a claim arises. One of the most common reasons for a health insurance claim not being paid by an insurance company is when they say that the particular disease is not covered by the policy and is an "exclusion". It leaves a bitter taste in the mouth of the policyholder and can sometimes put the policyholder in great financial difficulty. Thus, it is very important to know in detail about the exclusions in a health insurance policy before purchasing it. In our opinion, it is a far more important variable than price. A policy might be 10% cheaper than a competitor's policy but might have many more exclusion clauses-in such a case, the policy with the lesser number of exclusion clauses would be the better choice for the policyholder.

In this article, we deal with some of the common exclusion clauses in a health insurance policy. Of late, we are seeing some innovation in this area with the new companies not excluding certain ailments which had traditionally been within the exclusions area


  1. Maternity: In most cases, maternity and maternity related expenses are not covered in an individual or family floater health insurance policy. Maternity is typically covered in a group policy. In certain cases, we are seeing maternity being covered after 5 years into the policy.

  2. Diseases or illness contracted within the first 30 days of the policy. The insurance company does this to safeguard itself against customers buying a policy immediately after a disease has been detected

  3. Cataract, Prostrate, Hernia, Piles, fistula, gout, rheumatism, kidney stones, tonsils and sinus related disorders, congenital disorders, drug addictions, non allopathic/alternate treatments, self inflicted injuries, hysterectomy, fertility related treatments, etc are normally not covered under a health insurance policy. Dental treatment and cosmetic surgery is also typically excluded. Contact lenses cost is also not covered. HIV/AIDS is excluded, which has been a subject of great debate and criticism in the last few weeks. Some insurance companies do not cover treatment incurred outside the country, so you should check once before buying the policy

  4. Pre existing diseases are not covered in a health insurance policy. Preexisting means a disease that you have had prior to joining a health insurance policy. The policyholder may or may not have been aware of the pre-existing disease. Further complications which arise due to the preexisting disease are also not covered. For example, renal problems which arise due to a person having diabetes at the start of the policy would not be covered. This can sometimes lead to a lot of confusion and heartburn. Someone gets admitted for a kidney related treatment, and the insurance company turns down the claim saying the kidney problem has arisen because the patient had diabetes, and rejects the claim. It can get a little grey here as medical science cannot sometimes clearly pinpoint the root cause of a particular disease outbreak. In most cases, preexisting diseases are covered after 3 or 4 consecutive policy years. This is the single biggest reason why one should buy a health insurance policy at a young age, and continue with the same insurer. Because if you shift to a new insurer, you lose your previous credit and a disease that was being covered by the old insurer might be treated as a pre-existing disease by the new insurer. We have noticed that insurance companies start facing more claims from the health insurance customers from their 4th or 5th policy year, as pre existing begins to get covered and the profitability of the portfolio goes down

  5. Most policies do not cover day care, but a few like Max Bupa cover daycare, although the premium is higher in this case

  6. War related health insurance claims are mostly excluded from the policy coverage

  7. Abortion related health expenses are not covered in a health insurance policy

Pl do note that with competition heating up, some of the exclusions mentioned above will begin to get covered by a company or two so that it can be used as a selling point. Thus, the lists mentioned above are subject to change. The moot point here is that 10 minutes spent to read the exclusions list of the policy you are considering to buy could save you a lot of headache buyer. Be an informed buyer- there will be no else to blame but yourself.

How a Pregnancy Calculator Works


What Is Pregnancy Calculator

When will my baby arrive? That is a common question asked by pregnant mums and is excited to know their baby's due date. Pregnancy calculator is a simple tool for those who wish to confirm whether they are pregnant or not. This is based on your menstrual period, symptoms that you have and the tests that you have done. Pregnancy normally lasts from 37-42 weeks from the first day of your last period. This is also used to figure out the due date and compute the likely conception date. This tool can also determine the end of the first and second trimesters, determine the weeks you've been pregnant, estimate foetal age, determine the weeks you are pregnant over a given date, estimate which date you'll be pregnant the particular number of weeks, and figure out the possible conception date when you realize the birthday or due date.

The Uses Of This Pregnancy Tool

An important use of pregnancy calculator is usually to figure out the due date and compute the likely conception date. This tool can compute the end of the first and second trimesters, determine the weeks you've been pregnant, estimate foetal age, determine the weeks you're pregnant using a given date, estimate which date you'll be pregnant the specified number of weeks, and figure out the probable conception date when you recognize the birthday or due date. Despite the uses of this tool, it is ideal to consult your health care provider as soon as you think you are pregnant. This kind of tool is fantastic to utilize together with an in depth week by week pregnancy calendar.

How To Calculate Your Due Date

Ovulation and fertilization occur on day 14 of a 28 day menstrual cycle. This is equal to 280 days since the start of the last period, before allowing for cycle length adjustments. A manual pregnancy calculator is based on the original formula observed by Franz Naegele, an obstetrician and German professor in the 19th century. The formula shows that it should work back three months from the day of a woman's last period and add a year. A more accurate pregnancy calculator can be gained by the use of ultrasound scans. The ultrasound is non-invasive and it is used to check the baby's condition. The radiographer measure the size of the growing embryo to predict the likely birth.

Additional Tips:

A normal pregnancy usually goes to full term that normally lasts from between 38 and 42 weeks. However, you should bear in mind that the average month is for weeks and several days long, not precisely four weeks. For this reason, your health care provider compute how many weeks pregnant you are, as measuring pregnancy by weeks is a far more accurate means to determine length of pregnancy.

Most calculators are based on a gestational period of 40 weeks from the first day of a woman's last menstrual flow. This is estimated by a woman's ovulation and conceives approximately 2 weeks after the first day of your last menstrual flow and carries the baby for 38 weeks.

Maternity Clothes - How to Save a Lot of Money


Congratulations, you're having a baby! If this is your first baby, you'll be spending some money for all the things your new addition will need but don't spend a lot of money on a maternity wardrobe. Here are a few tips that will help you save a lot of money on your clothes.

One of the most important things to remember about this time in your life is that you're really only going to need true maternity clothes for about four to five months. Be practical about your needs. Don't buy expensive maternity clothes for "just in case" events unless you know you'll really need it.

Don't assume that all you can purchase are clothes labeled 'maternity' especially in the first few months when you might need a bit more room but you're not looking really pregnant yet. Many styles, like the newer baby-doll shirts allow a generous bit of fabric in the front. The same applies to pants in that early on, you might need a bit of stretch in the waist but you won't fill out maternity pants yet. Pants with elastic waist bands will fit the bill.

Let me touch briefly on saving a bit of money on bras and undergarments while you're pregnant. Don't spend money on maternity underwear. They're designed to stretch out over your tummy but it's really more comfortable and easier to wear bikini underwear and let it sit under your tummy (trust me and lots of other women on this one). You'll find that early on, your breasts will get larger and you'll need to go up in cup-size. Later on, you'll notice that you might not need a larger cup size but you'll need a bit more room around. Don't go out and buy another new bra. You can find bra extenders at sewing centers. They don't require sewing and just connect to your current bra at the hook and loops. They are about $2 compared to $30+ for new bras.

Here are the other ideas to help you save a lot of money on maternity clothes:

1) Borrow clothes from friends - My girlfriend started her family before I did and she actually offered her maternity clothes to me to use during my pregnancy. In the same way, I offered her some of my own maternity clothes when she was pregnant after me. We actually exchanged the same clothes four times before I sent them onto my sister-in-law and she and her friends exchanged them several more times.

When borrowing maternity clothes, DO make sure to take care of the clothes and launder them properly. Make sure to return them when you're done using them unless you've been clearly told not to return them (I was a bit upset when a coworker gave away some of my maternity clothes without my okay because she thought we were done having children).

2) Thrift stores - So many women quickly get rid of their maternity clothes when they think they're done having kids. They don't want to look at the "fat clothes" any more. Although I wasn't in the market for business-type maternity clothes, I was amazed at how inexpensive some of those types of maternity clothes were (after having seen them for full-price in a maternity clothing store).

3) Consignment shops - Sometimes you might need a dress or outfit for a special occasion. My brother was getting married when I was VERY pregnant with our third and I chose to not be a bridesmaid but was going to do a reading and needed something special. I found some very nice maternity "special occasion" dresses at a local consignment shop for a fraction of their original cost.

4) eBay - If you do a search of "maternity clothes lot size ___", you'll find a large selection of maternity clothes available. You can find sellers looking to sell "lots" of clothing or individual pieces.

5) Craigslist.org - Craig list is a great place to find a lot of things, not just maternity clothes. You can search your area of the state and contact most sellers through the e-mails provided. Many sellers are looking to sell entire wardrobes for very little. For safety, never meet up with any seller alone and don't tell the seller your exact address.

6) Box Stores - Many of the large chain box stores now carry maternity clothes; Target, Wal-Mart, Kmart and Kohl's, just to name a few. These stores are much cheaper than the specialty maternity clothing stores I was mainly limited to when I was pregnant. Stores like Kohl's always offer up coupons that can help you stretch your maternity clothing budget even further. Don't forget to look outside of the maternity department for clothes that have a bit more fabric, stretch or style that doesn't limit it to just those of us who aren't pregnant.

7) Tag Sales - Some newspapers will advertise tag sales. Keep an eye out for tag sales that advertise maternity clothes. Although tag sale season may not time out with your pregnancy, it doesn't hurt to be open to the possibility of finding some great deals at them.

Trust me when I say that your little bundle of joy will help you find plenty of ways to part with your cash but it doesn't have to start before they even come into the world. With these tips, you can save a lot of money on your maternity clothes.

How to Help Your Wife If She Has Postpartum Depression


Postpartum depression is a very real thing that a lot of women go through after giving birth. Lots of things contribute to postpartum depression from a feeling of despair from no longer being pregnant to being upset because her body still looks as though she is. Some estimate that as much as 90% of women will go through some form of postpartum depression at some point after delivery. Most of the time the postpartum depression will go away without the aid of medication. Hormonal changes play a big factor in postpartum depression. Even though the depression may not be that severe, it is a very real and emotional problem that your wife is facing. You should respect that she cannot simply "cheer up" and that you can play a key role in helping her through the period of depression.

Help combat her fatigue. Make sure that you give your wife all the support that she might need. Offer to take over duties around the house like laundry or cooking. Offer to do diaper changing duty or take over some of the baby's feedings too. If you can't be around to help her, enlist the help of family or friends. Often having a new baby around means not a lot of time for mommy to get some much needed rest. Make time for her to relax and take a nap or two.

A little positive support goes a long way. You may not realize it but new moms go through a wide range of emotions during the postpartum period. Women often feel unattractive or like they have no idea what they are doing. She may feel neglected now that the shift of attention has dramatically shifted from her onto the new arrival. It's important that you spend time with your wife and compliment her often on her appearance or on her mothering abilities. Small, unexpected gifts can sometimes help to lift her spirits too.

Get away for a bit. Just because you have a new baby around doesn't mean your life as a couple is over. Encourage (but don't force) your wife to allow grandma or some other trusted adult to care for the baby for a short period of time. Spend some time alone with her away from the house and the baby whenever possible. Even if you can only get out once a week or once every other week, it will make a difference. Make sure that you spend alone time with her every day. Even if you can just curl up with her while she takes a nap, your presence is important.

Give her something to look forward to. If you can, plan a trip or a vacation for sometime in the future. Make sure that you plan it for some period in the future when you think baby and mom will be ready.

If the period of postpartum depression is interfering with your wife's sleep or appetite or is accompanied by thoughts of hopelessness, extreme anger or violence, seek professional help for her right away. Never wait for the depression to go away on it's own if you have any concerns at all. It never hurts to speak to a doctor if you have any questions.

Wednesday, November 27, 2013

Baby Feeding for One Week Old


It is difficult for a mother to know how much quantity should be required for 1 week old baby feeding pattern. A mother at times get a feeling that the milk intake by one week old baby is not much, as she does not have an experience about 1 week old baby feeding.

The interaction between the mother and a newborn during the first week will not be comfortable, as both should get adjusted with each other.

Mostly, 1 week old infant feeding should be initiated by a mother, as baby at this age would prefer sleeping all the time. The mother should wake up during nights to feed the baby. 1 week old baby feeding would be a tough task for a mother, as baby will not be in a sense to respond to mother.

It is studied that, the one week old newborn sleeps 90% of the time and will be awake only 10 per cent. One week old baby would respond only at the loud noises and look around every corner very quietly. As you cannot measure 1 week old baby feeding, you can ask your doctor for some tips to know how frequently you should breast feed your baby.

It is usually advised to feed the one week old infant for 6-10 times in a day, which comes to 2 to 3 oz approximately. The feeding consistency usually depends upon the size and the activity level of the baby, and the intake gradually increases as the baby grows.

Four Ways to Create Maternity Leave Pay


The U.S. does not have paid maternity leave while the rest of the industrialized world enjoys weeks or months of fully paid, job protected leave. Your growing family budget may be stretched to the max, before factoring in a loss of income. If your employer does not provide paid leave there are four things you can do to create some maternity leave pay of your own: ask Uncle Sam to pick up the tab, tap state maternity benefits, buy short term disability, and buy hospital indemnity insurance.

Uncle Sam Provides Maternity Leave Pay

The introduction to this article stated that the U.S. does not have paid maternity leave laws, but Uncle Sam is happy to provide maternity pay to those smart enough to take advantage. One of our founding fathers, Benjamin Franklin is quoted as saying "a penny saved is a penny earned". Ben said this of course long before the advent of state and federal income taxes, and social security. A more updated version of that saying could be "a penny saved is a penny and a half earned". Consider a couple in the 25% federal tax bracket, paying state income taxes, and paying FICA taxes of 7.65%. This couple needs to earn $1.50 in order to take home $1. Anything maternity related that saves taxes creates maternity leave pay.

Women can generate significant un-reimbursed medical expenses during pregnancy. Estimate the amount of these expenses and make a corresponding election into your Flexible Spending Account (FSA). Any money funneled into this account reduces the amount of federal, state, and FICA taxes you pay. Many insurance plans today come with co pays, co-insurance, and deductibles which can be paid using your FSA.

If your child is born with health difficulties or developmental disabilities you may have unexpected bills. The birth of your child is a life event, allowing you to make changes during the plan year. When you are ready to return to work, you might be utilizing child care. These expenses can be paid using a dependent care FSA.

Tap State Maternity Benefits

Five states have mandated short term disability insurance which covers your normal labor and delivery, sometimes several weeks in advance of your delivery, and always for any pregnancy related complications that might cause additional time away from the job. The five states are California, Hawaii, New Jersey, New York, and Rhode Island. If you work in one of those states contact the state office for more details.

Two states offer paid family leave benefits that allow for an additional six weeks of paid leave so that you can bond with your baby. California and New Jersey both provide this benefit as an extension of the state disability program.

Buy Short Term Disability Insurance

Buy short term disability insurance before getting pregnant and create maternity leave pay for yourself, and added protection in case of complications, postpartum disorders, accidents, and illnesses. Short term disability pays a six week benefit for vaginal birth, and an eight week benefit for c-section delivery - less the elimination period.

Buy Hospital Indemnity Insurance

In the U.S. most babies are delivered in a hospital. Buying an insurance policy that pays a benefit directly to the insured upon hospital admission is another way to create maternity leave pay. Hospital indemnity insurance covers mom's admission to the hospital for normal labor and delivery. The benefit is paid directly to the insured regardless of what the underlying major medical insurance does or does not cover. The benefit for normal delivery may greatly exceed the premium paid, creating maternity leave pay.

Locating the Best Medical Underwriting Option for Employees


The purpose of international health insurance is to cover relocated employees and their families for conditions that occur after the policy has begun. It is therefore important to understand what is, and isn't covered before joining.

If you have a medium or large number of employees to be covered, you might be able to benefit from something called 'Medical History Disregarded' which can mean that your employees don't need to go through an underwriting process and if you're transferring from another policy, that cover can continue uninterrupted with waiting periods for things like dental and maternity benefits waived. If you have a small number of employees to be covered however, then it's likely that your group will need to be underwritten. Group sizes where underwriting is imposed vary between providers but generally if your group is under 10 members, then some kind of underwriting process will be required. Underwriting is the process whereby an insurance carrier examines the medical records of a prospective insured in order to decide what they can be covered for, and at what cost.

The two main ways insurance providers assess applications for cover are moratorium underwriting and full medical underwriting. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages, and there is some debate among providers as to which is better for the customer.

Moratorium underwriting is where only three or four questions are asked about medical history. These are as straightforward as 'Have you been to a doctor in the last two years?' If you state that you have been free of symptoms, treatment and advice for a medical condition in a given period before the policy starts (usually between two and five years), you'll receive cover for it.

There is no need to fill in a detailed health assessment questionnaire, and any pre-existing conditions for which you have received treatment or advice are automatically excluded. However, cover for these conditions is usually reinstated after two continuous years from the start of the policy, should you remain symptom, treatment and advice-free in that time.

The upside of moratorium is that it's fast to implement. The downside is that the policyholder will most likely get underwritten every time they make a claim, which is not a welcome prospect for overseas assignees.

The fundamental selling point of any kind of insurance is peace of mind. An employee in unfamiliar territory will sleep easier knowing that they have done everything they need to at the time of purchase, and that should they require treatment, their insurer is ready to take care of it promptly and without issue.

Full medical underwriting is arguably the preferable option in such circumstances. This is where the insurance provider asks detailed questions about your medical history at the time of application. This process can take some time - generally up to a week to gather all the information. They then make a decision on what will and won't be covered on the policy.

The advantages here are numerous: you know exactly what you are and aren't covered for; the process only happens once when you apply; when you claim it is processed quicker and with the minimum of fuss. In short, full medical writing provides employees with peace of mind and allows them to put health concerns at the back of their mind, regardless of location.

This is not to say that full medical underwriting is entirely free of drawbacks. As the name implies, it is comprehensive and therefore takes longer. This also means that the insurance provider will want to know lots of intimate details about your employees.

However, health insurance is too important a purchase to be made in haste, and the more the insurance provider knows about the insured, the better for them. By taking the time before relocating to provide the necessary information for the most efficient cover possible, they can focus on their assignment without the niggling worry that any medical claim they make will require further underwriting.

Both underwriting options have a similar outcome, and moratorium is not without its advantages, but peace of mind is crucial in new and potentially volatile surroundings and full medical underwriting goes a long way to deliver this.

Foods to Eat When Wanting to Have a Baby Girl


Recently, there's been a lot of press about what a woman eats and the gender or sex of the baby she ultimately conceives.  A recent study indicated that women who eat breakfast and consume more daily calories (about 2200) are more likely to conceive baby boys, while women who skipped breakfast and consumed less calories throughout the day were more likely to have a girl baby.

Although these studies were important in showing that there is a definite correlation that the foods you eat effect your baby's gender, this is really only the tip of the iceberg.  There are many variables in choosing the foods that help you have a baby girl.  This article will discuss which foods to eat and which foods to avoid - and why this method works in the first place.  

Why Foods Affect Your Conceiving A Girl: You may already know this, but when you want to conceive a daughter, the foods you eat can greatly affect your vaginal acidity and PH.  Why is this important? Because the sperm which produces a baby boy is much weaker and shorter lived than the sperm that produces a girl.  This is why you should conceive well before ovulation, so that you are giving the boy sperm a long time to wait, and you are ensuring that they have died off by the time you are most fertile and can easily get pregnant.

But, another effective way to complete this process is by making your vaginal PH a very high number. Boy sperm are going to be greatly compromised in an acidic environment.  So, just skipping breakfast is not enough to really do the trick.  You'll also need to eat a diet high in acidic foods and very low (or devoid of) alkaline foods.

Consuming Calcium And Magnesium And Avoiding Potassium Foods When Trying To Have A Girl: Old wives tales will tell you that, to get a daughter, you should load up your diet with foods that are high in calcium (milk, cheese, yogurt) and magnesium (beans, legumes, leafy green foods) while you avoid foods that are high in potassium ( bananas, etc.) It is also said that you should avoid alcohol and caffeine (coffee AND chocolate).  There is somewhat of a scientific base to this advice, but again, this is only one piece of the puzzle, which leads me to my next point.

Examples Of Acidic Foods. (The Foods That Will Help You Conceive A Girl): If you really want a female baby, you'll need to go on a high PH diet and avoid the foods that can make your system more alkaline.  Examples of highly acidic foods (which you will need to eat a lot of) are many fruits (plums, prunes, cranberries) as well as meats, corn, fish and whole grains. When you are on an acidic diet, it will feel very restrictive.  It can be a bit difficult, but just keep thinking about your daughter and know that it will be worth it.

Examples Of Alkaline Foods (You Must Avoid And Steer Clear Of These): Consuming high acid foods is not going to do you any good if you counteract all of your hard work by eating alkaline foods. You must avoid these. Examples are almost all vegetables (except corn, as noted above), orange juice (remember to take folic acid supplements to replace this), potatoes, spinach, and watermelon.

Another Important Step: Changing your diet can be an effective way to get the right body chemistry to have a girl, but there is a faster way.  You can combine douching with your diet changes.  I know douching can seem old fashioned, but you'll only be doing it for a short period of time and it makes the process happen much more quickly.

If you don't believe me, go out and get some PH testing strips.  Test your vaginal PH and test again after one day on an acidic diet.  Note the changes and the move upward.  Now, douche with a solution based on how acidic you naturally are.  Retest again.  I'd be willing to bet that your reading increased more after the douching than after the foods, right?

If you absolutely don't want to douche, you can change your body through foods, but you'll have to do a really good job with self control and you should monitor your results to make sure you've gone high enough to chase all of the boy sperm away when you try to conceive.

Which Vitamins Can Help You Get Pregnant Naturally?


If you are one of the over 5 million couples struggling with infertility, you have likely often worn yourself out trying to consider all of your options. Medical treatments and procedures are difficult and costly to go through, but it may start to seem as though that is the only thing that will work. This is simply not true however, and there are many ways you can improve your chances of getting pregnant naturally. Starting with fertility vitamins, you can likely find a balance in food and fertility, and you may discover that consuming the right vitamins for fertility will improve your chances exponentially. There are fertility blends for women and fertility blends for men that can help, but most of these contain the following supplements for fertility that can be found in foods that can easily be consumed daily.

Vitamin C - Vitamin C is a fertility vitamin that is important for both men and women to get appropriate quantities of. For men, 1000mg/day will improve sperm mobility by keeping the sperm from being too sticky and clumping together. For women, 750mg/day is ideal in order to improve fertility. Be careful to not go much higher than this dosage however, as high quantities of Vitamin C have been linked to hostile cervical mucus. Vitamin C is readily found in most citrus fruits, as well as broccoli and Brussels sprouts.

Vitamin E - Vitamin E is another vitamin likely found in many fertility supplements. Couples taking Vitamin E during IVF procedures have a 10% higher success rate. Reduced levels of vitamin E actually thwart the formation of sperm, so having healthy levels is crucial to sperm production. Vitamin E can be readily found in almonds and sunflower seeds.

Folic Acid - Folic Acid is a component in many fertility blends for women due to its benefits on both fertility as well as preventing birth defects. Men, and fertility blends for men, can benefit from Folic Acid as well however, as it has been shown to aid in sperm quality and production. Folic Acid can be found in leafy green vegetables like spinach and broccoli.

Vitamin B - Taking a Vitamin B complex with 50mg/day of B6 and 50mcg/day of B12 will improve sperm count in men and assist in improving fertility for women.

Getting the daily recommended amount of those four vitamins for fertility will improve your chances of conception greatly. Don't forget that your food and fertility are closely linked, and maintaining a healthy diet complete with these fertility vitamins will go a long way in helping you to achieve your pregnancy dreams.

Fat Injections For Buttock Enhancement


Enhancement of the buttocks is most consistently done with a gluteal implant. Despite its predictable improvement in the size and shape of the buttocks, buttock implants are not without complications. Intramuscular implant placement makes recovery more uncomfortable and having to sit on the implant predisposes it to positional shifting and the formation of fluid collections and possible infection.

Because of these concerns, the alternative treatment of fat injections or free fat grafting has emerged. Fat grafting to the buttocks has numerous potential advantages such as the elimination of the need for a synthetic implant, the use of a patient's own body tissues, an easier recovery with few limitations, a simultaneous benefit of cosmetic enhancement of the donor site, and a very low risk of bleeding or infection. All of these advantages of free fat fat grafting is counterbalanced by one significant disadvantage....an unpredictability of after surgery shape and size. How much fat survives and is retained is widely variable. No plastic surgeon can guarantee or predict with 100% accuracy how much fat will survive on a consistent basis. I prefer to inject no more than about 300cc per buttock as I think much volume than that results in greater volume loss.

The burning question through the past several decades is...how to make fat grafting work better. The injection technique is, of course, important but is only half of the answer. How the fat is prepared after harvest in the operating room is the other half. Everyone agrees that concentration is very important after harvest. This is the mechanical process of removing the liquids from the more solid fat components. Whether this is done by a centrifuge or passing the fat aspirate through a strainer or sieve are two methods of which one has not been proven to be better than the other. Additives to the fat are theoretically appealing but there is no universal magical additive. Currently, I add platelet-rich plasma (PRP) to the concentrated fat prior to injection. Whether this aids fat survival is not proven but since it is a product of the patient, there is no risk in so doing. PRP is a concentrate of a patient's own blood done at the time of surgery. While there is no standardized amount of PRP to add to fat, I typically use 3cc of PRP per buttock graft site.

If a patient opts for buttock augmentation with fat injections, they must accept that the amount of fat that will survive is unpredictable. It may require more than one injection session to obtain the best result. Most fat grafting methods will not achieve the degree of volume enhancement that a gluteal implant will.

Tuesday, November 26, 2013

Provide Your International Employees With International Group Medical Insurance at a Lower Cost


There is an employer international group medical insurance plan that could very well be what you need. This group medical insurance plan will allow you to provide your international employees with the same quality of medical insurance they enjoy in the US.

if your company or organization has employees outside of the US you should consider carving out the international portion of your company/organization and providing them with benefits at a much lower cost than your domestic group medical carrier using a good global employers group medical insurance plan.

There is a plan which provides benefits not normally found in a domestic plan and it also provides the flexibility of moving from one country to another. This plan is available for groups of 2 or more, so you don't have to be a large multi-national corporation to provide the same benefits. There are a variety of deductibles available, maternity is treated the same as any other illness and optional dental, life and daily indemnity.

For example if you're the executive responsible for your company's health insurance plan and your company has recently begun to expand into the international market place. You have 5 employees now being assigned overseas. They are all on your companies medical plan but it doesn't provide the same kind of coverage overseas as it does in the US what do you do, your employees want to have the same or maybe better benefits as a reward for taking an overseas assignment in a strange country.

Here's what you could do, get a good global employers group medical insurance plan for your international employees. The cost will very probably be substantially less than what you are currently paying for the domestic medical plan and the benefits overseas will be better than what your domestic medical plan will provide them. Hmmm, think about it; costs less, better benefits, happier international employees. Doesn't take long to come to the conclusion that a good global employers group medical insurance plan is the one you need.

On the other hand if your company or organization is located outside of the US you can get the same great benefits for your employees. It doesn't matter what country your company is located in. For example if your company is in Chile, Argentina, Colombia or Brazil you can still get a good global employers group medical insurance plan for your employees. You will have a US style medical plan in your own country.

What does a good global employers group medical insurance plan offer that makes it a superior international group medical insurance plan?

You want unparalleled services both for you, the employer, and for your employees.

Employer services include:

coverage for expatriate, third-country national and local-country national employees all on one benefit plan. An American style health plan helps you attract the very best employees in whatever country you are operating in and at the same time giving your US employees overseas still have the same great benefits they had in the US.

Separation of costs by country or overall international operation. Much easier to keep track of what your overseas health insurance costs are.

Containment of costs through lower international premiums. As medical care costs are lower in other countries so will your premiums be lower.

Domestic and international continuation as may be required by US law.

US based administration with toll-free access.

Employee services include:

complete portfolio of health plans including medical, dental and life.

Access to quality health care anywhere in the world (including the US).

International emergency assistance.

24-hour availability for emergency services, medical evacuation and precertification.

On-site, physician-directed emergency medical services and large claim management.

Full portability from country to country - this insurance goes where you go.

Internet services - employees can search for a provider within the independent PPO network; print plan descriptions; and initiate precertification.

Free calls to IMG from anywhere in the world.

Specialized claim services and processing:

professionally trained multilingual claims administrators with proven international experience.

Claims processed via automated international claim system with over 99% accuracy.

Claim inquiries, status of claim information and reimbursement options available by phone, fax and email.

Experienced international currency conversion.

Translation of bills and claim information from foreign languages; claim forms available in multiple languages.

Claim reimbursement directly to provider or insured via check, direct deposit to US bank account or electronic transfers to international account.

Verification of benefits and explanation of benefits to providers.

Large case management.

In my next article I will go into the details of the various benefits and options for a good global employers group medical insurance plan.

Thank you for your time and I hope you read more of my articles in the future.

NLP & Hypnosis Can Help Overcome Postpartum and Perinatal Depression


Everyone has feelings of sadness. In most cases, these occasions last for a few hours or days. Nearly one-fifth of the people in the world, however, are diagnosed with major depression, which causes depression that lasts for weeks, months, or longer. These moods result in problems performance in career, family, or interpersonal interactions, which can become severe.

Females who have signs of depression when they become pregnant may be treated for perinatal depression. This condition may develop any time after pregnancy begins, or any time thereafter, until the infant is one year old. Typically, however, those who develop this illness after the child is born are diagnosed with postpartum depression.

Perinatal depression or postpartum depression may be caused by a number of factors. These factors can be physiological. For example, women with a previous or family history of clinical depression or mental illness are more susceptible to developing perinatal depression or postpartum depression. Furthermore, alterations in hormone levels in postpartum mothers, such as decreases in estrogen and progesterone amounts, can cause this illness. Postpartum thyroid problems can cause signs of depression such as exhaustion, irritability, and hopelessness.

At times, mental depression is a result of emotional issues. Women may are fatigued and overwhelmed in learning to cope with the needs of the new infant. These issues are sometimes magnified by a lack of support from family, friends, or spouse. Money problems may also assist in causing postpartum depression.

Perinatal depression and postpartum depression often have grave consequences for both the woman and her new child. Worry and depression may prevent a woman from connecting fully with her baby or being capable of meeting her child's physiological and emotional requirements. This may worsen the mother's feelings of insignificance, guilt, and low self-worth.

The infant is also affected by the new mother's problems. Failure to bond with his or her mom may cause the baby to develop trust problems in emotional relationships throughout life. Further, infants who do not have their physiological or emotional requirements met typically do not grow and develop properly. This condition, called "failure to thrive," may be very serious or even fatal to the infant.

Perinatal depression or postpartum depression can damage everyone in the family. The spouse or significant other can feel ignored or unable to help the woman's depression symptoms. This can severely damage their partnership. Other children in the family may experience similar emotions, and develop school-related or peer problems as well.

Depression harms the whole family. Therefore, women who have perinatal depression or postpartum depression should seek depression treatment as quickly as possible. Numerous approaches can be used, such as talk therapy and medication treatments. Medicines, however, can be risky for nursing babies, and sometimes yield erratic outcomes due to the tremendous hormonal fluctuations a woman has during these hectic months. Furthermore, traditional counseling therapies can be lengthy and expensive.

Two therapies for dealing with depression that do not involve medicines and may quickly yield dramatically effective outcomes are hypnotherapy and Neuro-Linguistic Programming, or NLP. Traditional Hypnotherapy is most effective for clients who can be easily hypnotized or are capable of accepting ideas without needing to analyze or comprehend them. Ericksonian Hypnotherapy is very useful for persons who often overanalyze. These techniques aid individuals to relax and get rid of tension.

For clients who are more critical or analytical individuals, NLP is often more effective. With NLP, trained practitioners give people depression help by coaching them to restructure their thought processes. This strategy can, quite literally, allow a client think past the depressive mood and conquer it.

Individuals can conquer depression by developing NLP techniques such as anchoring. They learn to remember times when they felt happy and controlled their situations. Remembering the event renews these emotions. Clients are instructed to put two fingers together and remember these feelings. The unconscious mind connects the touch of the two fingers with the emotions. Hence, the finger touch becomes an "anchor."

Then, when the individual begins to feel overwhelmed, he or she sparks the anchor by touching these identical two fingers together again. This brings back emotions of self-control and results in empowerment.

Through another strategy called the Flash, individuals learn to think away harmful feelings. They program their unconscious minds to instantly substitute positive thoughts for negative ones. When negative thoughts arise, the mind instantly exchanges them for positive thoughts. After learning this technique, individuals find it nearly impossible to conjure up negative thoughts!

Summary: Perinatal depression and postpartum depression may have harmful results for a woman and her new baby. The rest of their family is also profoundly affected because of these problems. Because of the probable severity of the consequences of this condition, females with depression should seek treatment as soon as symptoms begin. Two very effective strategies that do not require medication or great outlays of time and money are hypnotherapy and Neuro-Linguistic Programming.

The Advantages of Payroll Outsourcing


Every business that recruits people is accountable to maintain a payroll system. It is also a mandatory document that requires while auditing. There are many ways available to take care of the payroll activities. Many companies prefer outsourcing their payroll accounting tasks to accounting outsourcing companies and get it done. Few companies rely on payroll software and they will complete their payroll activities by themselves. Both the option has its advantages. This article would explain you the benefits of outsourcing payroll function and using payroll software.

Benefits of outsourcing payroll activities:

The purpose of payroll is to calculate the correct income and the national insurance contributions to be deducted. This will also be used to deduct the employer national insurance. Running a payroll system is common in any size of companies no matter if it is a small or large scale industry. There will be payroll specialist who can take care of all the payroll entries and maintenance.

Payroll outsourcing is absolutely suits for the small business companies. In fact, they are not familiar with the complications of recording the employee accounts. They cannot afford for the software as it will be too costly for the small business companies as they will not have many employees. The only left out option is to outsource their payroll accounting to a third party company who specializes in accounting. They have to pay a reasonable amount and forward their details to the outsourcing company.

All their payroll details will be up to date and they can focus on some other mandatory tasks. The payroll system not only focus on calculating the income tax and the insurance contributions but also dealing with the tax codes, taxable benefits, allowances which includes sick pay, maternity benefits, student loan plans and pension benefits etc. Hence, it is a huge system according to the size of the company. Medium sized companies also have started adapting the outsourcing techniques considering the time saving and cost effectiveness.

Hence, outsourcing your payroll system to a genuine outsourcing company is always worthy doing it. It saves your money and time. On top of everything it brings in more profit by allowing you to focus completely on your core competency.

Benefits of using payroll software:

A big alternative to outsourcing is to implement software system for payroll calculations. Here, you need to recruit a dedicated payroll specialist or a team of payroll experts according to the size of the company. It will be done in house and all the details will be operated within the company. You should choose potential software which has various option that suits your company. Also you have to consider the pay scenarios while choosing the software.

Mostly large scale industries prefer having a separate payroll section with all these software facility as they do not have to worry about any of the data. Everything will be maintained with in their office premises. Here, you can have a personal access to all the details. Maintaining your payroll accounts using the software is much more easier than doing it manually. It will reduce your entire administration burdens. You will be able to access to the particular data of an employee with in few mouse clicks. There is less chances of making mistakes. Hence you can choose to follow any methods mentioned above according to your financial status and the size of your company.

So Blue After the First Baby


A happily married couple in Florida awaits the birth of their first child after 9 months of pregnancy. The attending surgeon and the Tampa Bay Midwife do an excellent job. All goes well and the child is born without complications. All accept the behavior of the "new mommy" to her husband and to her child. Symptoms of depression masked with irritability set in. Misunderstandings occur and harsh arguments follow in the ensuing weeks. What has happened to the sweet woman in a seemingly normal event such as childbirth to make her husband misunderstand? The woman has developed postpartum depression, a psychological condition that has become the subject of medical gatherings throughout the U.S. like the one in Florida called "Maternity Care Tampa Bay".

Postpartum depression needs to be understood before it can be prevented. So what is postpartum depression? Postpartum depression is essentially clinical depression that accompanies childbirth. Clinical depression or Major Depressive Disorder is characterized by a loss of interest in previously pleasurable activities that is coincident with low mood and low self-esteem. This loss is known as anhedonia. The disorder frequently affects women but could also affect men especially those who become new fathers. The incidence is lower in men however between 1.2% and 25.5%. After carrying their first child, women are most susceptible in the first few months following delivery. Studies reveal a female prevalence ranging between 5%-25%.

While the symptoms of postpartum depression usually occur in the first few months, they can manifest anytime in the first year following delivery. Women complain of intense sadness and fatigue in performance of daily activities. There is hopelessness, low self-esteem, guilt and even a sensation of being overwhelmed by circumstances. Disturbances have been noted in both appetite and sleep cycles. Some cases are even resistant to counseling. Mental functions like speech and writing are impaired and spells of intense anger, frustration, panic attacks and anxiety occur. The sex drive is seriously reduced.

While all the causes of postpartum depression remain elusive, a number of elements have been determined as predictors of the illness. A history of depression seriously predisposes to this illness. This also includes any depressive episode during pregnancy. General stress in life especially, when the mother is single or, if married, unsupported by her spouse is a contributory factor.

Recognizing postpartum depression as a disease entity will lead to better understanding and much needed comfort from spouses and prevent unnecessary conflict borne of misunderstanding. Smoking should be discouraged. Screening for postpartum depression, which is regular in Canada, could be carried out worldwide. This way, risk factors can be quickly identified and corrective measures can be taken. Appropriate exercise and a balanced nutrition seem to play vital roles in preventing postpartum depression in particular, and depression in general. Experts suggest the inclusion of the following in a woman's diet: Omega-3 fatty acids, proteins, Vitamins especially of the B class and proper hydration. With recognition, proper dietary measures and moral support we can prevent the occurrence of postpartum depression.