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Advicenators discussion: Menstruation /Puberty Female
karenR wrote Thursday April 16 2009, 8:31 am:
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Menstruation is outward proof that a girl is becoming a woman. If you're a teenage girl, you may have already started having a period. If you have not, you might be anxious about the subject or a bit concerned.
During puberty, hormones are released from the brain and stimulate the ovaries. The ovaries produce estrogen and progesterone, hormones that cause the eggs in the ovaries to mature so the woman can become pregnant. Every month, one egg leaves one of the ovaries on its way to the uterus via the fallopian tubes. Meanwhile, in preparation for the egg, the uterus starts to develop a thicker lining and it’s walls become cushiony (this is called the endometrial lining). If the egg reaches the uterus and is fertilized by a sperm cell due to sexual intercourse, it attaches to the endometrial lining and the woman becomes pregnant.
Most of the time, the egg just passes through without fertilization. Since the uterus no longer needs the extra blood and tissue to make the walls thick, it sheds them by way of the vagina once a month. This cycle will happen until the ovaries stop releasing eggs several decades later.
Symptoms
Periods are different for every woman. Some girls start menstruation when they are nine or 10 years old, while some do not start until their late teens.
The length of the cycle also varies. The cycle between menstruation usually lasts about 28 days. If you have just begun your menstruation, your body will need time to regulate itself to these changes so your periods might be a bit erratic. You may have two cycles in one month but miss having one the next month.
The length of your period also varies. Some girls have their periods for only three or four days, while others have them for as long as a week. The amount of blood can vary from woman to woman also.
Some girls may have body and/or mood changes around the time of their period. Menstrual cramps are a pretty common side effect during the first few days of your period. These cramps tend to become less uncomfortable and sometimes even disappear as a girl gets older. Over-the-counter pain medication like ibuprofen or acetaminophen can often give relief.
As your period approaches, you may experience something called premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Most likely caused by the rise and fall of hormones during a menstrual cycle, PMS often causes amplified emotions. Many women get depressed, irritated and angry, while others cry more than usual. It often causes cravings for certain foods. Many women also feel bloated because of water retention. When your period begins, PMS usually goes away.
You may also have acne flare-ups during or around the time of your period.
Treatment
Periods are a complex part of puberty, but are your body's way of telling you it is functioning properly. You can still exercise, swim and do everything you enjoy.
Researchers from Yale University and others have discovered that low-dose birth control pills can often help most symptoms of PMS such as painful cramps and severe bloating. Birth control can even be used to treat acne.
Ask Your Physician
If you are experiencing extreme cramps or pain during or before your period, talk to your doctor.
If you are worried about your period, ask friends or sisters who have already had their periods to discuss how periods are a normal and routine part of their life.
karenR wrote Thursday April 16 2009, 8:32 am:
PUBERTY
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Puberty in females is a process that varies from girl to girl. There is a wide range of 'normal' starting times, and the onset time varies in different ethnic groups. For example, it may occur between the ages of 8 and 14 for Caucasian girls, while some African American girls reach puberty at 7 years of age.
Symptoms
Puberty consists of two major changes: Rapid increases in height and weight and the development of breasts, pubic hair and underarm hair.
The average age and stage of puberty vary, but the average age and stage is listed below:
8 to 9 years old
Growth spurt begins at this age. Breasts are prepubertal, meaning they have no visible tissue. Girls also have no pubic hair.
11 years old
The areola (pigmented area around the nipple) enlarges and becomes darker. It raises to become a mound around the areola with a small amount of breast tissue underneath. This is called a bud. Also, a few long, slightly darkened hairs appear on the vagina (usually on the labia). The growth spurt has probably slowed by this age, as well.
12 years old
Breast tissue appears past the edge of the areola. A moderate amount of curly, pigmented and coarse appears hair on the mons pubis (the raised, fatty area above the labia). Hair begins to spread more laterally and 70 percent of girls have their first menstrual period.
13 years old
There is continued development of breast tissue and the areola and nipple now protrude. The growth spurt usually ends during this time and body fat reaches a mature proportion (26 percent). After menstruation begins, girls possibly grow three to four inches more, although it is usually less.
14 years old
Pubic hair has reached its adult growth rate and some long pigmented hairs may grow on the inner thighs.
15 years old
Breasts have usually reached their adult size by this time.
Ask Your Doctor
If you are worried that you are going through these changes too early or too late, talk to your doctor.
If you feel concerned or confused about these changes, ask your mother or an older sister. They have gone through these changes already and can talk to you about what it is like.delete
karenR wrote Thursday April 16 2009, 8:33 am:
BREASTS
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Why Do Girls' Breasts Get Bigger?
There are two main factors that influence the growth of breasts: nutrition and genetics. Breast growth happens during puberty. The pubertal hormones produced by the pituitary gland (located in the brain and responsible for producing a variety of hormones), play a critical role. One of the earliest signs that puberty has begun is enlargement of the breasts as a result of increased production of ovarian estrogen stimulated by these pituitary hormones. Boys also often experience breast enlargement during the early stages of their pubertal growth spurt, but their breasts usually shrink in size after one or two years. As long as estrogen continues to be secreted in females, breasts will grow and/or maintain their size. Breasts may also enlarge slightly in women taking birth control pills or, after menopause, estrogen-replacement pills. Naturally, breasts enlarge during pregnancy as a result of marked increase in estrogen secretion. Girls with poor diets and weight loss may notice that their breasts get smaller.
When Should A Girl’s Breasts Start Growing?
Girls often worry when they notice that their friends' breasts are enlarging and theirs are not. It is important to understand that there is a lot of variation in the normal timing of breast growth. For example, it is normal for breasts to start growing as early as nine years of age and it is also normal if they do not begin to grow until 14 years of age. In general, a girl will experience breast growth within one year of the time her mother first noticed her own breasts growing. Timing is even closer among sisters, so it may be very interesting and helpful to discuss this with them. However, since nutrition, exercise and health affect hormone levels, timing breast growth according to family history provides only a rough guess.
Another thing that girls should know about breast growth is that both breasts may develop at different times. This should not be cause for worry because breasts are usually even by the time they're fully grown, which can take a few years.
How Big Should Breasts Be?
We all come in different sizes. Some of us are tall and some short. Similarly, some girls have large, medium or small breasts. Nonetheless, many girls are unhappy because they think their breasts are too small or large. Attitudes about breast size are often influenced by fashions. For example, when it became fashionable to look thin in the 1960s, smaller breasts were desirable. With the arrival of the Wonder Bra, it became fashionable to have larger breasts.
From a health perspective, there is no ideal breast size. Breast size bears no relationship to breast cancer or ability to nurse an infant. There are surgical procedures available to increase or decrease the size of breasts, although these are major operations that should not be entered into without considerable thought and extensive information. Consider padded bras, which are safer alternatives for those who want their breasts to appear larger. Also remember as your breasts continue to grow, especially during puberty and pregnancy, improved nutrition may contribute to increased breast volume.
Can Teenage Girls Get Breast Cancer?
Yes, although it is rare during adolescence. On the other hand, breast lumps are common at this time of life. This apparent contradiction is explained by the fact that teenagers often get cysts or tumors in their breasts that are not cancerous which result from sensitivity to estrogen. Most of the time, these lumps will disappear on their own, but it is always a good idea to have them checked by a doctor.
When a lump is found, doctors will usually wait up to three menstrual cycles before taking any action, as they most likely will disappear. Mammograms, which are x-rays of the breasts, are not generally helpful in teenagers. Teenagers often learn breast self-examination techniques when they visit the gynecologist so this will become a health habit by the time they reach their fifties when their chance of breast cancer increases. Use of birth control pills does not increase the risk of breast cancer during adolescence and, in fact, has been shown to lower the risk of developing noncancerous breast tumors.
Is It Normal For There To Be Discharge Coming Out Of My Breasts?
The nipple is the exit point of numerous tiny ducts that lead from the interior of the breast where glands produce milk. Therefore, the most common discharge occurs when these glands are stimulated, as is true at the time of delivery of a baby. As long as sucking continues, milk will be produced and discharged through the nipple. Interestingly, vigorous rubbing of the nipple can also cause a discharge of milk. If the discharge is bloody or pus-like, it may indicate a rare but serious condition like infection or a tumor. Similarly, absence of menses associated with a nipple discharge may indicate a tumor of the pituitary gland or may result from certain medications. Obviously, a physician should be consulted whenever there is a nipple discharge in order to figure out its cause.
How big will my breasts get and what is normal?
There is no 'real' answer to this question, since we all come in different sizes. Some of us are tall and some short. Similarly, some girls have large, medium or small breasts. However, many girls are unhappy because they think their breasts are too small or too large.
Attitudes about breast size are often influenced by fashion. From a health perspective, there is no ideal breast size. Breast size bears no relationship to breast cancer or ability to nurse a baby. There are surgical procedures available to increase or decrease the size of breasts. These are major operations and they should not be entered into without considerable thought and extensive information, as they have possible serious drawbacks and complications. Padded bras are safer alternatives for those who want their breasts to appear larger. There are also 'breast enhancers' that a lot of people use instead of surgery. Finally, improving nutrition may contribute to increased breast size.
Other factors that may influence your breast size include:
• Family history
• Age
• Weight loss or gain
• History of pregnancies and breast feeding
• Thickness and elasticity of the breast skin (if you have fair skin, you most likely have "thin skin")
• Degree of hormonal influences on the breast (particularly estrogen and progesterone).
• Menopause
If your mother and sisters have small breasts will you have small ones too?
There is some genetic component to breast size. However, there are some health professionals who argue about this. It is not uncommon within one family to see sisters or mother and daughters with very different breast sizes.
Are breasts just fat tissue? What I can do to make my breasts bigger?
Breasts are made up of fat and fibrous tissue with glands that enlarge during pregnancy to allow for breast feeding. When a women gains weight, her breasts usually get bigger. Exercise can also enlarge the 'look' of the breasts, not by adding fat to breast tissue but by enlarging the muscles beneath the breasts. This sometimes can cause breast tissue loss in some women because when they workout they lose fatty tissue.
There are no other effective non-surgical alternatives (such as herbs and supplements) for breast enlargement. Surgical breast enlargement involves placing an artificial liquid containing device (filled with saltwater or silicone)into the space between the breast tissue and the underlying muscle through a small incision under the nipple or in the armpit. If that is something you are interested in, talk to your parents and give it a lot of thought.
One of my breasts is a bit larger than the other, is this normal?
A woman’s breasts are rarely symmetrical. One breast is usually slightly larger or smaller, higher or lower, or even shaped differently than the other. The size and characteristics of the nipple also vary greater from woman to woman. In some women, the nipples are constantly erect. In others, they will only become erect when stimulated by cold or touch. Some women also have inverted (turned in) nipples. Inverted nipples are not a cause for concern unless the condition is a new change.
What are these bumps around my nipples?
The nipple and areola (the pigmented area surrounding the nipple) contain specialized muscle fibers that respond to stimulation to make the nipple erect. Within the areola the Montgomery’s gland is contained. These glands may appear as tiny, raised bumps on the surface of the areola. These bumps are normal. The Montgomery’s gland helps lubricate the areola. When the nipple is stimulated, the muscle fibers will contract, the areola will pucker, and the nipples become hard. (See the above image for reference)
What are breast lobes?
Each breast has 15 to 20 sections, called lobes, each with many smaller lobules. The lobules end in dozens of tiny bulbs that can produce milk. Lobes, lobules and bulbs are all linked by thin tubes called ducts. These ducts lead to the nipple, which is centered in a dark area of skin called the aureole. The spaces between the lobules and ducts are filled with fat. There are no muscles in the breast, but muscles lie under each breast and cover the ribs.
These normal features can sometimes make the breasts feel lumpy, especially in women who are thin, have thin skin or who have smaller breasts. You should learn to do a breast self-exam from your gynecologist so that you can find new lumps when they appear.
NOTE: If you find a lump or other change in your breast, don't use this information to try to diagnose it yourself. There is no substitute for a doctor's evaluation.
karenR wrote Thursday April 16 2009, 8:34 am:
VAGINA
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The vagina is the opening located directly below the urethral opening. Directly outside of the vaginal opening are the labia minor, the smooth inner lips of the vulva. Outside of the inner lips are the labia majora, the fleshier outer lips that are typically covered in hair after puberty.
The clitoris is a sensitive organ. Its function is to provide sexual pleasure. It is a hard round 'button' at the top of the vulva. The clitoral structure surrounds and extends into the vagina. It contains erectile tissue, very similar to the male penis. When a women gets sexually aroused, it engorges with blood. The clitoris is densely packed with nerve endings and, while similar in number to the penis, they are much more concentrated and closer together.
When a woman is sexually aroused, the vagina begins to produce lubrication to aid in penetration. Most vaginas are only four inches in length. At the top of the vagina is what feels like a semi-hard round ball. This is your cervix, the 'neck' of your uterus. In the middle of the cervix is a small round opening, called the external orifice that leads to the uterus. The external orifice is the small opening through which menstrual blood flows from the uterus into the vagina. This is the same small opening that expands during childbirth. This is also where cells for a pap smear will be taken to make sure they are healthy.
Keep in mind that the vagina is a 'potential' space. The walls of the vagina are normally in contact with each other. In other words, they are touching unless something is inserted between them; contrary to what most anatomy illustrations depict. The vagina isn't a hole or cavity inside the body. When something enters the vagina, the body must make room for it, no matter how small or large it may be.
Treatment
The vaginal walls are continually producing secretions necessary to provide lubrication, to cleanse the vagina and to maintain the proper acidity to prevent infection. The vagina tends to be fairly acidic, while sperm tends to be more of a base or alkaline. The vagina is a naturally self-cleansing body part, so douching isn't necessary to keep the vagina clean. Some women chose to use a vinegar and water douche after the end of their period, but this is not necessary. Women who like to douche, however, should do so with unscented products.
Wash your vagina when you shower or bathe with a gentle soap or cleansing bar. Don't overdo it or you can irritate the sensitive lining. Additional vaginal care products are not necessary unless you have a vaginal infection, such as a urinary tract infection.
karenR wrote Thursday April 16 2009, 8:36 am:
EASING MENSTRUAL CRAMPS
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1. Massage Away the Pain
Have a relaxing massage, at a salon or health club. A massage alleviates cramping especially in the lower back. Get a light massage like manual lymph drainage at least a week before your period. If you have a massage during your period, tell the therapist to avoid the abdominal area, as this will increase blood flow. Reflexology, or foot massage, focuses on pressure points on the soles of the feet. Apply the right amount of force to pressure points for the lymphatic system or pituitary glands to provide relief for cramps.
2. Eat More to Relieve Cramps
Eat several small meals a day during your period to relieve cramps. Avoid heavy foods and banish salty foods from the menu. Refrain from drinking alcohol, including wine, until your period ends. Lay off caffeine in coffee, energy drinks and cola and opt for ginger or cinnamon tea and orange juice instead. Drink milk to increase intake of calcium and vitamin D, which boost muscle function. Sprinkle parsley on your salad, or eat blackberries and pineapple to ease menstrual cramps.
3. Open the Medicine Cabinet
Since birth control pills stop ovulation, they also control the severity of menstrual cramps associated with it. If you can't take the pill, over the counter pain relievers like Tylenol or Aleve are effective. Avoid aspirin, however, if you're under 20 years old since it can cause Reye's Syndrome, a disease that affects the brain and liver. Older women can take aspirin, but it's not as effective as ibuprofen (Advil) or acetaminophen (Tylenol).
4. Move Around to Banish Cramps
Implement a month long exercise routine, and that includes your period. Set aside a few minutes to walk or do yoga, even during your heavy flow days. Exercising during your period raises beta-endorphins which combat pain, so even a few light leg raises or a few minutes on the exercise bike can reduce muscle pain.
5. Relax and Relieve
Bust stress to bust cramps. Get enough sleep and meditate every day. Take a long lukewarm bath using oils or bubble baths containing lavender or chamomile, nature's relaxants. Drinking chamomile teas also relaxes frayed nerves, Use a heating pad under thighs for heavy cramps, and practice deep breathing exercises like Hatha yoga's "Complete Breath."
karenR wrote Tuesday April 21 2009, 7:12 am:
Menstrual Bleeding:
What's Normal, What's Not
Most menstrual periods last from three to five days, but anywhere from two to seven days is normal. The amount of blood flow varies, too, but for most women, bleeding starts out light at first, followed by heavier flow for a day or two and then another light day or two. Sanitary pads or tampons, which are made of cotton or another absorbent material, are worn to absorb the blood flow. Sanitary pads are placed inside the panties; tampons are inserted into the vagina.
"The amount of bleeding varies from woman to woman because everybody's body has a different way of building up the lining of the uterus," says Lisa Rarick, M.D. "A lighter flow or heavier flow doesn't mean you can't get pregnant as easily or you're never going to get pregnant, or that your periods will always stay the same way. But if you're bleeding excessively-soaking one or more tampons or pads an hour-you should see a doctor to see if there's a problem."
Rarick, a gynecologist with FDA's Center for Drug Evaluation and Research, says teenagers often are concerned if they expel blood clots during their periods. She says this is not dangerous; they are clumps of pooled blood in the vagina. Sometimes, instead of flowing freely, blood drains from the uterus and stays in the vagina until there's a change in position--say, from sitting to standing.
Women who use tampons should be aware of toxic shock syndrome, or TSS, a rare but serious-and sometimes fatal-disease that's been associated with tampon use. Tampon packages carry information about TSS on the box or inside. Because TSS mostly affects 15- to 19-year-olds, it's especially important for teenagers to know what signs to look for. If you develop the following symptoms while menstruating, remove the tampon and get medical help right away:
* sudden fever over 102 degrees Fahrenheit
* vomiting
* diarrhea
* dizziness, fainting, or near fainting when standing up
* a rash that looks like a sunburn.
For more on toxic shock syndrome, see "On the Teen Scene: TSS-Reducing the Risk" in the October 1991 FDA Consumer.
--M.S.
Publication No. (FDA) 94-1215
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karenR wrote Tuesday April 21 2009, 7:13 am:
How Long Should My Period Last?
Because all girls are different, menstrual periods can vary from girl to girl. One girl might have a 3-day period and another girl might have a 7-day period. It might take several years for a girl's period to become regular. One month the period might last 4 days, whereas the next month it might be 6 days. Some women experience irregular periods for several years and might not ever be "regular." Some doctors will prescribe birth control pills to help regulate your menstrual cycle. Talk to your doctor to find how you can regulate your cycle if it is irregular.
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karenR wrote Tuesday April 21 2009, 7:14 am:
When Should I Change My Pads or Tampons During My Period?
Sanitary napkins (pads) should be changed as often as necessary, before the pad is soaked with menstrual flow. Each woman decides for herself what is comfortable. Tampons should be changed every 4 hours. Make sure that you use the lowest absorbency of tampon available. For example, do not use super absorbency on the lightest day of your period. This can put you at risk for Toxic Shock Syndrome (TSS). TSS is a rare but potentially deadly disease. The risk of TSS can be lessened or avoided by not using tampons, or by alternating between tampons and pads during your period. If you experience any of the following symptoms while you are menstruating and using tampons, you should contact your doctor immediately:
* Sudden, unexplained, high fever
* Muscle aches
* Diarrhea
* Dizziness and/or fainting
* Sunburn-like rash
* Sore throat
* Bloodshot eyes
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karenR wrote Tuesday April 21 2009, 7:15 am:
SKIPPING A PERIOD
There are several reasons why you might skip a period one month:
* Age - If you have just started having your period, it might not come every month. If you are an older woman who is approaching menopause, (when your periods stop), you might also skip a period.
* Exercise - Excessive exercise might cause you to skip a period.
* Stress - Stress and highly emotional times in your life may cause you to miss a period or two.
* Illness - If you are sick, you might also miss a period.
If you miss more than a period or two (if you have been having regular periods previously), contact your health care provider.
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karenR wrote Tuesday April 21 2009, 7:15 am:
Why would I stop having my period?
The absence of a menstrual period is called Amenorrhea. This condition describes women who have not had a period in their teenage years or women who used to have a regular period that has stopped. There are several causes for Amenorrhea:
* Pregnancy is the most common reason for a woman to stop having her menstrual period
* Breastfeeding
* Extreme weight loss that can be caused by serious illness, eating disorders, or excessive exercising
* Gland problems (pituitary, thyroid, or adrenal)
* Reproductive problems
If your period has not started by the age of 16, or if you have stopped having your period, while you are still young, contact your doctor.
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karenR wrote Tuesday April 21 2009, 7:16 am:
How do I know if I need to see a doctor about my period?
You should consult your doctor for the following:
o If you have not started menstruating by the age of 16
o If your period has suddenly stopped
o If you are bleeding for more days than usual
o If you are bleeding excessively
o If you suddenly feel sick after using tampons
o If you bleed between periods (more than just a few drops)
o If you have unbearable pain during your period
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karenR wrote Tuesday April 21 2009, 7:18 am:
Premenstrual Syndrome
Also called: PMS
Premenstrual syndrome, or PMS, is a group of symptoms that start one to two weeks before your period. Most women have at least some symptoms of PMS, and the symptoms go away after their periods start. For some women, the symptoms are severe enough to interfere with their lives. They have a type of PMS called premenstrual dysphoric disorder, or PMDD.
Common PMS symptoms include
* Breast swelling and tenderness
* Acne
* Bloating and weight gain
* Pain - headache or joint pain
* Food cravings
* Irritability, mood swings, crying spells, depression
No one knows what causes PMS, but hormonal changes trigger the symptoms. No single PMS treatment works for everyone. Over-the-counter pain relievers such as ibuprofen, aspirin or naproxen may help ease cramps, headaches, backaches and breast tenderness. Avoiding salt, caffeine and alcohol, exercising and getting enough sleep can also help.
National Women's Health Information Center
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karenR wrote Tuesday April 21 2009, 7:20 am:
Water retention before your period: How to stop the swelling
Monthly water retention can be uncomfortable and annoying. But simple lifestyle changes can usually relieve this common premenstrual symptom.
By Mayo Clinic staff
Premenstrual water retention is that bloated, heavy, full feeling that occurs a week or two before your period begins and goes away after your period starts. For most women, water retention before menstruation is just a monthly bother, but in some cases, it can be severe enough to interfere with daily activities. Luckily, there are other options besides spending five days in your "fat pants." Lifestyle changes, medications and natural remedies can help ease your bloated belly.
Water retention: The most common premenstrual symptom
That need-to-unbutton-your-pants feeling is perfectly normal. Up to 85 percent of women who menstruate have at least one premenstrual sign or symptom. And abdominal bloating, caused by water retention, is common.
Water retention is just one of more than 200 symptoms that have been linked to a woman's monthly menstrual cycle — a condition commonly known as premenstrual syndrome (PMS). Other common signs and symptoms of PMS include fatigue, breast tenderness, acne, headaches, food cravings, irritability and crying spells. These signs and symptoms typically begin between the ages of 25 and 35.
Why water retention happens
The exact cause of PMS — and its unwelcome symptoms — is unclear, but cyclic changes in hormones during this time of the month seem to play a major role. Here's a refresher on how your menstrual cycle works:
* The average menstrual cycle lasts about 28 days. Day one is the first day of your period.
* In the first half of your cycle, estrogen levels increase, signaling the lining of your womb (uterus) to thicken and grow. During the same time, hormones from your pituitary gland stimulate your ovaries to develop and release an egg.
* About day 14, the egg is released and travels into one of your fallopian tubes. Then progesterone levels increase in preparation for pregnancy.
* If the egg isn't fertilized, hormones decrease again and the thickened lining of the uterus is shed during your menstrual period. This occurs about day 28, and the whole cycle starts over again.
Chemical changes in the brain seem to interact with monthly hormonal changes and contribute to PMS symptoms. Serotonin is the brain chemical (neurotransmitter) most frequently blamed for PMS, but other chemicals also may come into play. In addition, stress and emotional problems seem to make PMS worse.
How to get your belly back
Most women can minimize — or prevent — premenstrual water retention and its resulting weight gain. Lifestyle changes usually do the trick, but medications and natural remedies can help, too.
Lifestyle changes
Taking extra-good care of yourself just before your period can help banish bloating. Plus, positive lifestyle changes provide other health benefits all month long.
* Exercise. When PMS strikes, fight the urge to sit around in your sweats and watch chick flicks. Women who exercise generally report fewer PMS symptoms.
* Skip the salt. Restricting sodium in the last few days before your period can reduce bloating, fluid retention, and breast swelling and tenderness. So put away your saltshaker. And pay attention to less-obvious sources of sodium, including condiments, such as soy sauce, and processed and prepared foods, such as canned vegetables, soups and deli meats.
* Try smaller meals. Nibble on five or six small meals, instead of three big ones. Just make sure these smaller meals include plenty of fruits, vegetables and whole grains.
For most women, these lifestyle changes are the only treatment needed for water retention.
Medications
If you can't control premenstrual water retention with lifestyle changes alone, nonprescription and prescription medications can help:
* Diuretics. The most effective medicine for water retention is usually a diuretic. Sometimes called water pills, these medications help rid your body of sodium and water by making your kidneys excrete more sodium in urine. They are available in over-the-counter formulations, such as pamabrom (Aquaban), or stronger prescription pills. But long-term use of these fluid reducers can cause electrolyte abnormalities or even kidney damage.
* Over-the-counter PMS treatments. These medicines (Midol, Pamprin) usually contain some combination of mild diuretics, pain relievers, antihistamines and caffeine. So they can treat a range of PMS symptoms. However, if your main symptom is water retention, you may not need all of the active ingredients in these medications.
* Over-the-counter pain relievers. Nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs), such as ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) and naproxen (Aleve), may alleviate physical symptoms that occur with PMS. If you experience abdominal cramps along with bloating, acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) also may help.
* Birth control pill (oral contraceptive). If you have severe water retention and cramping, your doctor may recommend a low-dose oral contraceptive. These medicines prevent ovulation, which can reduce the physical symptoms of PMS.
The best medication for you depends on a range of factors, including the severity of your symptoms and your desire to become pregnant.
Natural remedies
Countless vitamins, minerals and herbs have been touted as a cure for PMS symptoms. The following remedies have proved to reduce water retention in scientific studies:
* Calcium. Studies show that taking 1,200 milligrams (mg) of calcium a day may reduce water retention, cramps and other physical symptoms of PMS.
* Magnesium. A dose of 200 mg to 400 mg of magnesium each day has shown some benefit to alleviate bloating.
* Natural diuretics. Some herbs — including dandelion, ginger and juniper — act as a natural diuretic because they make you urinate more. However, natural diuretics have only a modest effect, compared with conventional medications.
Primrose oil and gingko leaf extract also are commonly recommended for premenstrual water retention, but there is little evidence for their effectiveness.
When to talk to your doctor about water retention
Talk to your doctor if you're troubled by monthly water retention. He or she may suggest that you keep a symptom diary for a few months. This helps confirm that your symptoms are related to your menstrual cycle, rather than other causes of abdominal pain, including irritable bowel syndrome, celiac disease or other gastrointestinal problems.
Your doctor can also help determine the best treatment for you. Over-the-counter PMS medications and herbal remedies can interact with other medications you're taking and some can't be taken in high doses for extended periods. Work with your doctor to find a safe, effective way to put those fat pants back in the closet — and wear your favorite jeans all month long.
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karenR wrote Tuesday April 21 2009, 7:22 am:
Amenorrhea
What is amenorrhea?
Amenorrhea is the absence of a menstrual period.
* Primary amenorrhea is when a young woman has not yet had a period by age 16.
* Secondary amenorrhea describes someone who used to have a regular period but then it stopped for at least three months (this can include pregnancy).
What are the signs of amenorrhea?
The main sign of amenorrhea is missing a menstrual period.
Regular periods are a sign of overall good health. Missing a period may mean that you are pregnant or that something is going wrong (see What are the causes of amenorrhea?). It’s important to tell your health care provider if you miss a period so he or she can begin to find out what is happening in your body.
Amenorrhea itself is not a disease, but is usually a symptom of another condition. Depending on that condition, a woman might experience other symptoms, such as headache, vision changes, hair loss, or excess facial hair.
What are the causes of amenorrhea?
Amenorrhea is a symptom of a variety of conditions, ranging from not serious to serious.
* Primary Amenorrhea
o Chromosomal or genetic abnormalities can cause the eggs and follicles involved in menstruation to deplete too early in life.
o Hypothalamic or pituitary diseases and physical problems, such as problems with reproductive organs, can prevent periods from starting.
o Moderate or excessive exercise, eating disorders (such as anorexia nervosa), extreme physical or psychological stress, or a combination of these can disrupt the normal menstrual cycle.
* Secondary amenorrhea
o This problem is much more common than primary amenorrhea.
o Common causes include many of those listed for primary amenorrhea, as well as pregnancy, certain contraceptives, breastfeeding, mental stress, and certain medications.
o Hormonal problems involving the hypothalamus, pituitary, thyroid, ovary, or adrenal glands can also cause amenorrhea.
o Women who have very low body weight sometimes stop getting their periods as well.
o Women with premature ovarian failure stop getting regular their periods before natural menopause.
What is treatment for amenorrhea?
Treatment for amenorrhea depends on the underlying cause. Sometimes lifestyle changes can help if weight, stress, or physical activity is causing the amenorrhea. Other times medications and oral contraceptives can help the problem. For more information, talk to your health care provider
REF:[Link](Mouse over link to see full location)
karenR wrote Tuesday April 21 2009, 7:23 am:
Menstrual cramps
By Mayo Clinic staff
Original Article:[Link](Mouse over link to see full location)
* Definition
* Symptoms
* Causes
* Risk factors
* When to seek medical advice
* Tests and diagnosis
* Complications
* Treatments and drugs
* Lifestyle and home remedies
* Alternative medicine
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Definition
If you're a woman, chances are you've dealt with menstrual cramps — even if you've never heard of "dysmenorrhea," the medical term for them. Menstrual cramps are dull or throbbing pains in the lower abdomen. Many women experience menstrual cramps just before and during their menstrual periods. For some women, the discomfort is merely annoying. For others, it can be severe enough to interfere with everyday activities for a few days every month.
Menstrual cramps are classified as primary dysmenorrhea or secondary dysmenorrhea. Primary dysmenorrhea involves no physical abnormality and usually begins six months to a year after you begin menstruating. Secondary dysmenorrhea involves an underlying physical cause, such as endometriosis or uterine fibroids.
If you have primary dysmenorrhea, there are some measures you can take to ease the discomfort. You can also be rest assured that cramps tend to decrease in intensity as you get older and often disappear after pregnancy. For secondary dysmenorrhea, managing your cramps involves treating the underlying cause.
Symptoms
Most women experience menstrual cramps at some time in their lives. Whether it's primary or secondary, dysmenorrhea can be severe enough to disrupt your day-to-day routine.
If you have primary dysmenorrhea, you most likely developed it within a year after you started menstruating. You may continue to have cramps through your 20s or until you have a baby. Then, for unknown reasons, they're likely to become less intense. With secondary dysmenorrhea, cramps may start or return later in life, but can begin anytime after you begin menstruating.
Signs and symptoms of dysmenorrhea may include:
* Dull or throbbing pain in your lower abdomen
* Pain that radiates to your lower back and thighs
Other signs and symptoms that can occur along with menstrual cramps include:
* Nausea and vomiting
* Loose stools
* Sweating
* Dizziness
Causes
During menstrual periods, your uterus contracts to help expel its lining. Prostaglandins, hormone-like substances involved in pain and inflammation, trigger the uterine muscle contractions. No one knows for sure, but many experts believe that prostaglandins are the direct cause of primary dysmenorrhea. Increased leukotriene levels — substances involved in inflammation — also may be a contributing factor.
A number of conditions can cause secondary dysmenorrhea. They include:
* Endometriosis. In this painful condition, the type of tissue that lines your uterus becomes implanted outside your uterus, most commonly on your fallopian tubes, ovaries or the tissue lining your pelvis.
* Adenomyosis. In this condition, the tissue that lines your uterus begins to grow within the muscular walls of the uterus.
* Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). This infection of the female reproductive organs is usually caused by sexually transmitted bacteria.
* Use of an intrauterine device (IUD). These small, plastic, T-shaped birth control devices are inserted into your uterus. They may cause increased cramping, particularly during the first few months after insertion.
* Uterine fibroids and uterine polyps. These noncancerous tumors and growths protrude from the lining of your uterus.
Risk factors
Risk factors associated with dysmenorrhea include:
* Age younger than 20
* Early onset of puberty (age 11 or younger)
* Heavy bleeding during periods (menorrhagia)
* Depression or anxiety
* Attempts to lose weight (in women age 14 to 20)
* Never having delivered a baby
* Smoking
When to seek medical advice
If you've started menstruating within the past few years and are experiencing cramps, chances are your menstrual pain is primary dysmenorrhea and not a cause for concern. However, if menstrual cramps disrupt your life for several days a month or if you're older and just started experiencing severe menstrual cramps, see your doctor. If you have secondary dysmenorrhea, pinpointing the underlying cause is the first step to successful treatment.
Tests and diagnosis
Your doctor will review your medical history and perform a physical examination, including a pelvic exam. During the pelvic exam, your doctor will check for any abnormalities in your reproductive organs and look for indications of infection.
To rule out other causes of your symptoms or to identify the cause of secondary dysmenorrhea, your doctor may request diagnostic tests, such as:
* Imaging tests. These noninvasive tests enable your doctor to look for abnormalities inside your pelvis. The imaging tests most often used to diagnose the cause of secondary dysmenorrhea include ultrasound, computerized tomography (CT) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
* Laparoscopy. In this surgical procedure, your doctor views your abdominal cavity by making tiny incisions in your abdomen and inserting a fiber-optic tube with a small camera lens.
* Hysteroscopy. In this procedure, your doctor inserts a direct-viewing instrument through your vagina and your cervix to examine your cervical canal and the inside of your uterus.
Complications
The complications of secondary dysmenorrhea depend on the underlying cause. For instance, pelvic inflammatory disease can scar your fallopian tubes and compromise reproductive health. The scarring can lead to an ectopic pregnancy, in which the fertilized egg stays in the fallopian tube rather than traveling through the tube to implant in your uterus, or it implants somewhere else outside your uterus. Endometriosis, another possible cause of secondary dysmenorrhea, can lead to impaired fertility.
Treatments and drugs
For secondary dysmenorrhea, you'll need treatment for the underlying cause. Depending on that cause, treatment could include antibiotics to treat infection or surgery to remove fibroids or polyps or to treat endometriosis.
You may be able to reduce your discomfort from dysmenorrhea by using an over-the-counter nonsteroidal anti-inflammatory drug (NSAID), such as aspirin, ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others) or naproxen (Aleve). Self-care strategies also may help relieve discomfort. For severe cramping, your doctor might recommend low-dose oral contraceptives to prevent ovulation, which may reduce the production of prostaglandins and therefore the severity of your cramps.
Lifestyle and home remedies
You can try a number of self-care strategies to reduce the discomfort of primary dysmenorrhea. Once the pain begins, soaking in a hot bath or using a heating pad on your abdomen may ease your cramps. You can also make some lifestyle changes to improve your overall health and possibly decrease the severity of your cramps. Try these tips:
* Exercise regularly. Exercise results in an increased release of endorphins, your body's natural painkillers.
* Get adequate rest. Your body may be less vulnerable to pain when you're well rested.
Alternative medicine
Some women find relief through massage, yoga or meditation, all stress-relieving activities that may help to lessen pain and aren't likely to harm you. Some women find acupuncture helpful for pain relief.
REF:[Link](Mouse over link to see full location)
karenR wrote Tuesday April 21 2009, 7:26 am:
Toxic shock syndrome
By Mayo Clinic staff
Original Article:[Link](Mouse over link to see full location)
* Definition
* Symptoms
* Causes
* When to seek medical advice
* Treatments and drugs
* Prevention
Mayo Clinic Health Manager
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Definition
Toxic shock syndrome is a rare, life-threatening bacterial infection that has been most often associated with the use of superabsorbent tampons and occasionally with the use of contraceptive sponges.
In 1980, an outbreak of toxic shock syndrome occurred that mostly involved young women who had been using a particular brand of superabsorbent tampons. The cause of the outbreak seemed to be toxins produced by Staphylococcus aureus (staph) bacteria. Toxic shock syndrome can also result from toxins produced by group A streptococcus (strep) bacteria.
While the infection often occurs in menstruating women, it can also affect men, children and postmenopausal women. Other risk factors for toxic shock syndrome include skin wounds and surgery.
Signs and symptoms of toxic shock syndrome develop suddenly, and the disease can be fatal. You can take steps to reduce your risk of toxic shock syndrome.
Symptoms
The signs and symptoms of toxic shock syndrome may include:
* A sudden high fever
* Low blood pressure (hypotension)
* Vomiting or diarrhea
* A rash resembling a sunburn, particularly on your palms and soles — which, after a week or so, generally leads to peeling of the skin on your hands and feet
* Confusion
* Muscle aches
* Redness of your eyes, mouth and throat
* Seizures
* Headaches
Causes
Researchers don't know exactly how tampons may cause toxic shock syndrome. Some believe that when superabsorbent tampons are left in place for a long time, the tampons become a breeding ground for bacteria. Others have suggested that the superabsorbent fibers in the tampons can scratch the surface of the vagina, making it possible for bacteria or their toxins to enter the bloodstream.
The brand of tampons associated with the original toxic shock syndrome epidemic in the 1980s was voluntarily taken off the market by the manufacturer. After that, the number of cases of toxic shock syndrome declined dramatically.
It's not just young, menstruating women who can develop toxic shock syndrome. About half the current cases occur in nonmenstruating people, including older women, men and children. Toxic shock syndrome has occurred in women who had been wearing a diaphragm or a contraceptive sponge. It's possible for anyone to develop toxic shock syndrome in the course of a staph or strep infection. The syndrome may occur in association with skin wounds or surgery.
When to seek medical advice
Call your doctor immediately if you experience the signs or symptoms of toxic shock syndrome. This is especially important if you're menstruating or have just finished menstruating and have been using tampons or if you have a skin or wound infection. Tell your doctor what your symptoms are and how long you've had them.
You may need to provide blood and urine samples to test for the presence of a staph infection. Samples from your vagina, cervix and throat may be taken for laboratory analysis by using cotton swabs.
Treatments and drugs
If you develop toxic shock syndrome, you'll likely be hospitalized and need antibiotics. Doctors will try to determine the source of the infection. Along with antibiotics, you'll receive supportive care to treat the signs and symptoms of toxic shock syndrome. If your blood pressure begins to drop (hypotension), you'll need medication to stabilize it and fluids to treat dehydration. The toxins produced by the staph or strep bacteria and accompanying hypotension may result in kidney failure. If your kidneys fail, you may need dialysis.
Prevention
You can reduce your chances of getting toxic shock syndrome by changing your tampon frequently, at least every four to eight hours. Consider using the lowest absorbency tampon you can and try to alternate using tampons and sanitary napkins whenever possible.
Toxic shock syndrome can recur. People who've had it once can get it again. If you've had toxic shock syndrome or a prior serious staph or strep infection, don't use tampons at all.
REF:[Link](Mouse over link to see full location)
karenR wrote Tuesday April 21 2009, 7:30 am:
How do you insert a tampon?
You may be worried and nervous about using your first tampon. Talk to your mom or a friend who has used tampons. It is important to first learn how to use a tampon and then, just relax! The more you relax, the easier the insertion will be. When you are nervous, your muscles tense up, making insertion even harder. For your first time, you may want to try using a tampon when your menstrual flow is heavy; this should allow the tampon to glide in more easily. Choose the smallest size tampon for the first time. By following these simple guidelines, and those that come with your package of tampons, your first experience with tampons should be easy.
1. Sit or stand in a comfortable position. Some women prefer to place one leg on the toilet seat or tub, while others prefer to squat down. After you find a position that is most comfortable for you, hold the tampon with the fingers that you write with. Hold the middle of the tampon, at the spot where the smaller, inner tube inserts into the larger, outer tube. Make sure the string is visible and pointing away from your body.
2. With your other hand, open the labia (the folds of skin around the vaginal opening) and position the tampon in the vaginal opening. (See picture 1 below).
3. Gently push the tampon into the opening, aiming for the small of your back. Stop when your fingers touch your body and the applicator, or outer tube, is completely inside the vagina. (See picture 2 below).
4. Once the applicator or outer tube is inside of you, use your index finger to push the inner tube (the tube where the removal string is visible) through the outer tube. This pushes the tampon into the vagina.
5. Once the inner tube is all the way in, use your thumb and middle finger to remove the applicator or outer tube. Make sure that the string hangs outside of the vaginal opening. Later, when you are ready to remove the tampon, hold the string and gently pull it downward until the entire tampon is out.
If the tampon is inserted correctly, you should not feel it. If you feel uncomfortable in any way, you may have inserted the tampon incorrectly or the tampon may not be placed far enough into the vagina. If this happens, just remove the tampon and start again with a new tampon. Remember that practice makes perfect. If you don't get it on the first try, your second try will most likely be successful. Instead of getting frustrated and giving up, relax and try again!
What if I still don't succeed?
If you don't succeed after several times, see your health care provider. It may be that you were born with a very small opening in your hymen and you can't insert tampons. This is true in only about 2% of teens, but it could be a problem.
A mirror is often helpful so that you can see where your vaginal opening is. Sometimes, even using a small amount of vaginal lubricant (K-Y Jelly) on the end of the tampon will help the first one glide in.
REF:[Link](Mouse over link to see full location)
karenR wrote Tuesday April 21 2009, 7:31 am:
Types of Hymens:
A Guide for Teens
Hymen: a thin membrane that surrounds the opening to a young woman's vagina. Hymens can come in different shapes. The most common hymen is shaped like a half moon. This shape allows menstrual blood to flow out of a girl's vagina.
Imperforate hymen: An imperforate hymen can be diagnosed at birth but sometimes the diagnosis isn't made until the teen years. An imperforate hymen is a thin membrane that completely covers the opening to a young girl's or young woman's vagina. Menstrual blood cannot flow out of the vagina. This usually causes the blood to back up into the vagina and the abdomen (belly) resulting in abdominal and/or back pain. Some teens may also have pain with bowel movements and difficulty passing urine.
The treatment for an imperforate hymen is minor surgery to remove the extra hymenal tissue and create a normal sized vaginal opening so that menstrual blood can flow out of the vagina.
Microperforate hymen: A microperforate hymen is a thin membrane that almost completely covers the opening to a young women's vagina. Some menstrual blood may be able to flow out of the vagina but the opening is very small. A teen with a microperforate hymen usually will not be able to get a tampon into her vagina and may not realize that she has a very tiny opening. If she is able to put a tampon into her vagina she may not be able to remove it when it becomes filled with blood. The treatment is minor surgery to remove the extra hymenal tissue making a normal sized opening for menstrual blood to flow out.
Septate hymen: A septate hymen is when the thin hymenal membrane has a band of extra tissue in the middle that causes two small vaginal openings instead of one. Teens with a septate hymen may have trouble getting a tampon in or trouble getting a tampon out. The treatment for a septate hymen is minor surgery to remove the extra band of tissue and create a normal sized vaginal opening.
Illustrations on ref site: [Link](Mouse over link to see full location)
karenR wrote Tuesday April 21 2009, 7:38 am:
Shaving Pubic Hair: How To
Women shaving their pubic hair is different than using the razor on legs or underarms. You need a bit more patience and care because of this sensitive zone and thicker hair type. While you can get away with a 'hurry up and get it done job' with other areas, but not this one. Here we will show you how to get a close, safe shave while avoiding common problems like nicks and ingrown hairs.
Difficulty: Easy
Time Required: 1/2 hour for women shaving their pubic hair
Here's How:
1. Choose your shaving cream wisely. For this sensitive body zone be sure to get and use a good shaving cream or gel, using soap is definitely out. The Art of Shaving, Shaving Cream for Women (compare prices) is phenomenal for getting a smooth shave, moisturizing skin and preventing ingrown hairs.
2. Don’t skimp on your razor. Stay clear of the straight, cheap disposables or you'll be asking for cuts and nicks. Instead use a razor with a pivoting head and multiple blades to give you a smooth, close shave. My pick Schick Quattro for women (compare prices).
3. Give a haircut. Trim hair down first as short as possible by placing comb flat on the skin and trim over comb with scissors, or with clippers using the shortest guard. The less hair you start out with means less use of your razor.
4. Take a warm shower or bath. At least 10 minutes of the heat will soften skin and relax the hair follicle.
5. Exfoliate. Rid dead skin cells and provide a closer shave by using a mild exfoliator or your favorite body wash with an Ayate washcloth (compare prices) on your pubic area.
6. Dab on some shaving oil. Working as a barrier on your skin, the razor will glide easier instead of dragging and moisturize skin. It also helps prevent razor burn, general irritation and ingrown hairs.
7. Apply shaving cream or gel. Make sure skin is damp but not wet. If you have a shaving brush, work the product with the brush in circles to help lift hair and get a closer shave.
8. Shave. Using a fresh blade, first go in the same direction of hair growth and then in opposite direction while holding skin taut. Don't go over the same area too many times.
9. Rinse. In between strokes, be sure to rinse blade. A clogged razor won’t work well.
10. Cleanse. Rinse pubic area and pat dry with towel.
11. Moisturize. Apply a light, preferably unscented lotion.
12. Fight redness. Women shaving their pubic hair have a tendency for getting ingrown hairs. Solution2 (compare prices) can help with bumps, redness and ingrown hairs.
Tips:
1. Keep all products on the outside of your body only. And avoid shaving during your period, as skin is more sensitive.
2. If you are taking off most of your hair, a small mirror can help you see better.
3. Shaving while taking a shower, rather than a bath can make things easier because you can prop up legs on side of stall.
4. If you're daring, you can create pubic hair designs at home.
5. Shaving only takes hair even with the skin, waxing will keep hair away weeks at a time. You may want to consider a brazilian wax.
What You Need:
* Comb and scissors or clippers
* New pivoting razor with multiples blades
* Shaving cream or gel
* Quality razor
* Shaving oil
* Shaving brush (optional)
* Cortizone cream if pubic area starts getting itchy
REF:[Link](Mouse over link to see full location)
karenR wrote Tuesday April 21 2009, 7:41 am:
Your Guide for Shaving Pubic Hair
There comes a time when a person looks down at their pubes and decides that it's time for a change. Maybe your partner asked you to ‘neaten’ yourself up a little. Maybe you don’t want it to look like you have a rug hanging out of your bikini. Whatever the reason, male or female, we have the answers to all your pubic hair trimming questions right here.
Things You Should Consider First
Before you reach for that trimmer or those scissors you should take a couple of things into consideration:
1. Your Partner - You may want to tell your mate what you are about to do so you can deal with any issues they may have before the big change.
2. Proper Undergarments - Pubic hair helps dissipate excess moisture by keeping a layer of air between our genitals and our underwear. Removing some or all of the “hair down there” means you will need to make sure you wear only undergarments made from breathable materials like cotton or silk. Failure to let the area breathe can be uncomfortable and irritating. If you’re a woman it also puts you at greater risk of a yeast infection.
Pubic Hair Removal Methods
There are many options available when it comes to trimming your goods. Your tools should be selected based on the end result you desire. If you want clean shaved privates, look into shaving or waxing. If you only desire a trim then maybe scissors or trimmers would be best, followed up with some shaving, tweezing or waxing of the surrounding areas. Follow along as we explain each method and then make the decision for yourself.
How to Trim Your Pubic Hair
If you’re growing a forest down there and all you desire is a trim to neaten up your appearance then there’s two ways you can do it, with scissors or with trimmers. Scissors work, but take a while and require dexterity. A good beard trimmer with an adjustable guard will let you shave all of your pubic hair to a uniform length in seconds, making quick work of the job.
Shaving Pubic Hair
Shaving your pubic hair is a pretty simple process that takes a while to get used to. If you’ve never shaved ‘down there’ before then it’s almost guaranteed that you will experience some irritation. Your skin is not used to coming into direct contact with anything due to the hair that acts as a buffer between you and your clothes. On top of that, a close shave will irritate the skin until it has been conditioned to the practice. In most cases it only takes a month or so to get your skin used to shaving, but depending on your particular physiology it could be less time or more time. Listen to your body and don’t rush – this isn’t a race. You will need: A new razor, hair conditioner or shaving cream / gel, a bowl of steaming hot water, and an unscented moisturizing lotion. Not needed but nice to have: A freestanding or hand mirror for those hard-to-see areas.
1. Take a Long, Hot Bath - Soaking in hot water will soften up both your skin and hair. Gently exfoliate the area you are about to shave using a loofah or exfoliating pad to remove dead skin.
2. Trim - Using either scissors or a trimmer, cut your pubic hair as short as you can. This will make shaving easier, shaving long hair will cause your razor to become clogged in no time flat.
3. Lubricate - Using hair conditioner (shaving creams and gels work, but conditioner works better), lather up the area to be shaved.
4. Shave - With one hand pull the skin tight, with the other slowly and deliberately shave off your pubic hair moving in the direction of hair growth, not against. Always use a new razor each and every time you do this. Pubic hair is thick and will dull a blade after just one shave, and using a dull blade is a pathway to painville. Clean the razor after every stroke by repeatedly tapping it against the side or bottom of the bowl and then visually inspect it to make sure it's clean before continuing. If you need to go back over an area, first apply a fresh layer of lubricant.
5. Post-Shave - After you’ve finished shaving, lightly rub an ice cube over the skin you shaved to close up your pores and then pat the area dry with a clean towel. Apply a unscented moisturizer to the area to help soothe the freshly shaved skin.
When you are first getting used to shaving you should shave only once every few days – wait for the irritation from the last shave to heal before you shave again. With every successive shave, the irritation should lessen until it stops altogether. After shaving, wear a long shirt or boxer shorts to let the area breathe – only wear loose, breathable fabrics. You will find that a close shave will last anywhere from 1-3 days and will begin to itch as it grows back if you don’t shave it regularly. Not everyone has the skin for shaving, if you find that you have a real problem with irritation or ingrown hairs then you should consider a close trim instead. It will still look and feel clean but without all of the pain.
Waxing Pubic Hair
Many people prefer waxing over shaving because it lasts much longer. Waxed pubic hair can take anywhere from two to four weeks before it starts re-growing, meaning there’s much less time spent maintaining it. The trade off is pain. Waxing hurts, but the pain can be controlled by pulling more or less hair out at one time. Continued waxing will also cause hair growth to diminish over time. You can perform this at home, or go to a professional to have it done. Professionals are fast and have the best tools but can be expensive and embarrassing. The ultimate choice is really up to you. If you choose to perform the waxing yourself, supplies can be purchased at any drug store, or even made at home. Below is a simple recipe for a sugar solution that can be used instead of wax along with instructions for its use.
Ingredients:
* 2 cups white sugar
* ¼ cup water
* ¼ cup lemon juice
* 1 tbsp sesame oil
Instructions:
1. Prepare a one square foot area on a clean counter top or large glass cutting board by coating its surface with olive oil.
2. Mix all ingredients in a pot and bring to a boil.
3. Simmer until the sugar solution reaches approximately 250F (the mixture will take on a light, caramel color, approx 10 minutes - do not overcook).
4. Immediately turn off the stove and pour the solution onto the oiled surface. Be careful not to get any on yourself or you will get burned!
5. Once it’s cooled enough to handle and before it hardens, work it into a ball with a spatula or spoon and place it into an airtight container inside the fridge for storage.
When it’s time for use, break off about a tablespoon sized chunk and heat it up in the microwave until it’s warm and soft, then work it in your hands until it’s nice and pliable. Be careful not to burn yourself, it only needs about 20-30 seconds to warm up.
Instructions for use:
1. Spread a small quantity over the hair to be removed (start small!).
2. Press a strip of porous fabric firmly over it (cotton, muslin, whatever you’ve got).
3. Yank the strip off in the exact opposite direction of hair growth (pull it back, not up).
4. Continue using the same cloth strip and sugar until it fails to pick up more hair.
5. Start again at step 1 until all you’ve completed the job.
After you’ve removed all the unwanted hair, apply an unscented moisturizing lotion. There are many people who swear by sugaring as an easier and cheaper alternative to waxing. If smooth is your thing, give it a try!
Chemical Depilatories
Chemical depilatories are usually some sort of liquid or cream that are applied directly to the skin over unwanted hair, allowed to sit for a specified time during which they dissolve the hair, and then are washed off along with the unwanted hair. These products work by dissolving the keratin in each hair so it can easily be wiped away, the drawback is that your skin also contains keratin so it’s imperative to keep it on only long enough to remove the hair and not damage the skin. There’s no exact science to these, they work fantastically for some people, while they irritate the heck out of others. If you choose this route – try it out on a less sensitive area and wait 48 hours to make sure you don’t have any adverse reactions to it. When using to remove pubic hair, make sure the product states that it is safe for the bikini area and never apply it directly to your genitals. These are best used to neaten up the area around your goods, folks.
Pubic Hair Styles
So you know how to remove your pubic hair… now what? Do you shave it all off, or just trim it? Shave some of it and trim the rest? Dye it another color entirely? The choice is yours. Here are some common styles to get you started.
Pubic Hair Styles for Men
* Natural - Just what the name implies, and what you probably have now.
* Brazilian - All bare, no hair.
* Uniform Trim - All of the pubic hair trimmed to a uniform length. This is best done with a beard trimmer.
* The Patch - Completely shaved except for a uniform tuft of hair above the penis and over the pubic bone.
* Custom Designs - Completely shaved except for a custom shaped patch above the penis and over the pubic bone. Shapes can be anything; triangles, arrows, half-circles, etc..
Pubic Hair Styles for Women
* Natural - Just what the name implies, and what you probably have now.
* Brazilian - Again just what the name implies, all bare, no hair.
* Uniform Trim - All of the pubic hair trimmed to a uniform length. This is best done with a beard trimmer.
* Bikini Line - Hair is removed from around the sides and above of the vulva so that it cannot be seen while wearing a bikini. This gives the appearance of an upside-down triangle.
* Landing Strip - Completely bare except for a vertical strip of hair 1/2-1/4” long centered directly above the vulva.
* G-Wax - Completely bare except for a tiny tuft of short hair centered directly above the vulva.
* Custom Designs - Completely shaved except for a custom shaped patch centered above the vulva. Shapes can be anything including triangles, arrows, hearts, etc..
REF:[Link](Mouse over link to see full location)
karenR wrote Tuesday April 21 2009, 7:48 am:
Developing Breast: Stages of Breast Development in Teen Girls
The process of developing Breast in teens marks the beginning of puberty. Your child should be educated enough about the Stages of Brest Development in Teen Girls to take necessary care and overcome the scary feeling…
Developing Breast: Stages of Breast Development in Teen Girls
Enlarge Image
Breast development in teens and menarche (the onset of the menstrual cycle) mark the beginning of puberty and thus the great transition between childhood and womanhood. This period often fills the minds of young girls with mixed feelings of fear, sometimes spurred on by myths, hope and the wonderment of becoming a woman. Children around this age are asking themselves and others questions like "what is menstruation like?" How big will my breasts be? Will mine look like mom's or big sister's or will mine be different. Is this (situation) normal?
In addition to attracting a sexual partner, which these days we could safely say could be of either gender, breasts have a biological purpose, to provide milk for a child that the woman will one day produce. As it is true with the rest of our bodies, breasts take several years before they’re fully mature and prepared to perform this function. This development takes place during puberty.
Stages of Breast Development
There have been several studies concerning breast development in girls and they have recognized a pattern in the growth pattern of developing breasts. This growth pattern has been divided into five stages of breast development. These stages take eight to ten years for a young woman to go through before breast development is complete.
Stage 1 (The child less than 10 years old)
In this time period the child is growing in all areas, however development of breasts is not yet seen. Areola's are only brownish spots where there will one day be full breasts and fully developed nipples.
Stage 2 (Beginning development age 8-13)
There are some differing viewpoints as to the age at which this stage begins. There are those that say that it begins at nine years, but it is well proven that there are factors (such as obesity, which increases Leptin, the hormone required to begin puberty and breast development) that can bring about early onset of this stage. In this stage small breast buds develop in preparation for growth of the ducts. Menarche will begin approximately four years after this stage.
Stage 3 (Ages 12-14 years)
In this stage the breasts buds are beginning to enlarge. There may be some pain or discomfort.
Stage 4 (Ages 12-15)
At this stage of development the breasts form mounds and are gradually enlarging. There may be some additional discomfort and pink lines may appear on the breasts, these are only stretch marks and will fade in time. In addition there might be noticeable pain. This is only the breasts growing and the skin growing to accommodate the enlarging mound beneath it. This discomfort will pass in about a year or so.
It is at this stage of life that a young girl should be taught and makes it a habit to do breast self exams. This is definitely not because cancer is a worry at this point in life. However, it is because cancer is a possibility later in life and that it is important for the teenager to get into the habit of doing these exams shortly after each menstrual cycle.
This is a good time to purchase a bra to prevent injury. The child needs to understand that a brassier is more than underwear. A bra is meant to protect the breasts both during and after growth. Breast injury is quite painful and breasts need to be protected while jogging and other sports. There are some who claim that it is very good for a person to wear a bra to bed.
Stage 5 (ages 14-18)
This is the last stage and the breasts mature and become full and rounded. This is about the time a woman has realized the approximate breast and bra size that she will most likely retain for most of the rest of her life. There will be factors that will change this; breast size will increase with both pregnancy and weight gain. In addition if the young woman is overweight at this point in her life, then dramatic weight loss will of course decrease the amount of fat in the breasts and her bra size will decrease.
It is also during this last stage of development that the ducts within the breast will be growing and this can produce small lumps. ` These are nothing to be concerned about; these usually go away within several menstrual cycles. Doctors generally are not concerned about this unless they last longer than three menstrual cycles.
While breast growth and development is a completely normal thing that happens to a young girl, it can also be a scary time. There are many changes taking place and some of these associated with the breasts are not taking place at the same time. There may be a period where one breast is slightly larger than the other. This is just a minor and very normal thing that happens during any growth period. After about 18 years old the breasts should be very close to the same size.
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