Tips for Menstrual Cramps

One of the things that really bother women when they are getting their period is menstrual cramps. But there are things that you can do to help control your menstrual cramps. Here are some of the best things to help with the pain associated with the cramps during your period.

  • Reduce Salt Intake – One of the things that you should do is to reduce your salt intake. Even though you may be craving it, the salt is going to cause bloating and that is something that helps to contribute to cramps. When you reduce your salt and reduce your bloating, you will reduce your cramps.
  • Drink Hot Tea – The second thing that you will find will help with cramps is drinking some warm tea.  Sipping it and spacing the cups out is going to help you feel better.
  • Eat a lot of Fiber – The third thing that you should do is to eat a lot of fiber. Lots of women have discovered that cramps are often caused by constipation and when you have ample fiber in your diet, you are not going to be constipated.
  • Use a Heating Pad – The fourth thing that you can do to help with the cramps is to apply a heating pad.   Many women have discovered that this is something that makes them feel better when they have their period.
  • Ibuprofen – The final thing that you can take to help you with menstrual cramps is to use Ibuprofen.   This has been a lifesaver for a lot of women with the excruciating cramps.

These are the five things that you can do in order to help reduce the amount of pain that you have from cramps.   Cramps don’t have to be a part of your menstrual cycle if you know what to do for them and how to control them.

Filed Under: Sexual Health Tagged With: ,

STD Symptoms in Women

Is it an STD or is it something else? A lot of women don’t know how to tell the difference and therefore they don’t go and get checked. Therefore, there STD or their other problem becomes worse until they are so sick that they don’t know what to do about it. Here are some of the symptoms that women might experience if they have an STD.

  • Vaginal discharge that is thick, foul smelling, or discolored.  The symptoms can get worse from a few days to two weeks.
  • Burning, itching, or pain while the woman urinates which lasts for more than 24 hours.
  • Fever
  • Pain while having sexual intercourse
  • Heavy feeling or pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis
  • Pain, itching, burning, or tingling in the genital area.
  • Warts, rashes, lumps, sores, or blisters around or on the genitals
  • Bleeding or spotting after having sex
  • Other infection symptoms like fatigue, swollen glands, rash, fever, or low energy.

It’s important for any woman who has any of the above symptoms to go and see her doctor.  Most of the sexually transmitted diseases that are out there are treatable and manageable. But it’s important for her to go and be checked out so that treatment can begin.

Sexually transmitted diseases are something that is scary, but they can be prevented when the proper precautions are taken. Condoms are one of the best ways that partners can prevent both pregnancy and the spread of an STD.  Some people think that condoms are not romantic. But how romantic are STDs or pregnant bellies? Better to be protected than to have to deal with the consequences of not taking the proper precautions.

STDs don’t have to be a part of sexual life when the right precautions are taken and observed during sex. The sooner you get treatment for an STD, the better of you’ll be.

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Tips for Using a Condom

One of the most popular types of contraceptive is a condom.  When they are used correctly, they are very effective for preventing the spread of disease and pregnancy. Here are some of the things that you should remember when using a condom.

  • Use a brand new condom every time you have sex.
  • Apply the condom once an erection has been achieved and prior to the penis making contact between it and the body of the partner.
  • If the man has not been circumcised, the foreskin should be pulled back before applying the condom.
  • If there is no reservoir tip on the condom, the tip should be pinched in order to leave a space of half an inch for collecting semen.
  • When you pinch the tip, put the condom up against the man’s penis and unroll it to the penis’ base.  Place more lubricant or spermicide on the condom’s outside.
  • If the condom breaks during intercourse, cease sex and remove the penis from the partner. Don’t continue with sex until another condom has been applied.
  • Once ejaculation has been achieved and prior to the penis becoming soft, take hold of the condom’s rim and very carefully withdraw.
  • In order to remove your condom, pull it off very gently, making sure that the semen isn’t spilling out.
  • Tissue should be used for wrapping the used condom before throwing the condom in the garbage. Due to the fact that condoms can cause sewer problems, they shouldn’t be flushed.  Make sure that you’re washing up with water and soap when you are done.

These are the things that you should remember when you are using a condom.  Make sure that you are following them, otherwise you may not get the right protection that you are expecting from the condom and you may find out you and your partner are expecting something else.

Filed Under: Sexual Health Tagged With: ,

3 Kinds of Lubricants

One of the common questions that people ask about is the different kinds of lubricants. Here is a brief explanation of the different kinds of lubricants and what their suggestions are and what they should and should not be used with.  There are three different kinds of lubricants and each of them have their advantages and their drawbacks.

  • Water Based – These are the most popular kinds of lubricants because they can be used with the latex contraceptives such as diaphragms, sponges, and condoms.  They’re nonirritating and easy to clean up.  KY is a popular brand of this kind of lubricant and so is Liquid Silk.
  • Silicone Based – These lubricants last longer than the water based but they can’t be used with sex toys made of silicone due to the silicone on silicone reactions. They can be used with latex toys and contraceptives that aren’t made of silicone.  Two popular brands are Überlube and Pjur Woman Bodyglide
  • Oil Based – These lubricants are really good for masturbation purposes but should not be used with latex contraceptives or toys made or rubber, because it can cause it to break down.  Vaseline is a popular lubricant and so is oil made of Vitamin E, although there are people who are allergic to the latter.

These are three of the lubricants that a lot of people use when it comes to sex.  Some of them are personal preference while others are more of a health preference.  If you are unsure about whether or not you are going to be able to handle the other kinds of lubricants, it’s a good idea to start with one of the water based lubricants and get used to it, since that is the most versatile one.  It’s good to experiment and try different things but it’s also good to be careful.

Filed Under: Planning, Sexual Health Tagged With: ,

Confidential Health Advice and Services For Teens

Some teens enjoy a completely open and honest relationship with their parents in which they can discuss anything. But many teenage girls, especially sexually active ones, simply can’t bring this subject up, even with their moms. As many times as their parent may have said “you can ask me anything”, most teenagers are understandably uncomfortable discussing their sexual experience with their parents.

This can lead to problems if young women have concerns about pregnancy, birth control, or sexually transmitted diseases. They may also need to talk about relationship issues such as pressure to become sexually active, or other intimate problems.

Most cities have a Planned Parenthood office, which is available to anyone who needs access to information regarding women’s health and welfare. In addition to being completely confidential, Planned Parenthood staff is highly sensitive to the needs of young women, particularly those who have nowhere else to turn. In addition to providing birth control contraceptive education, the clinics also offer a wide variety of counseling and informative services.

Teens with any concerns about their sexual heath and welfare should always feel safe contacting a Planned Parenthood office. It can be scary to sort out birth control options on their own, and they may not feel comfortable talking to their family physician. Planned Parenthood provides basic gynecological exams and testing for STDs, pregnancy, and other female issues. For young women who may be worried about body image, depression or substance abuse, Planned Parenthood counselors can openly and honestly discuss these issues and provide women with referrals and information.

Sometimes all she needs is adult reassurance that everything going on with her body is normal. Planned Parenthood has been providing these confidential services for nearly 100 years. Teens should never hesitate to start at Planned Parenthood for any concerns about sexuality or gynecological issues.

Filed Under: Advice, Prenatal Care, Sexual Health Tagged With: , ,

What To Expect During Your First Visit To Planned Parenthood

Planned Parenthood often serves as the only health resource for teens and women without access to gynecological care or birth contraceptives. For those seeking birth control for the first time, talking to someone about private information can be a scary experience.

First, remember that Planned Parenthood staff are passionate about what they do and the services they provide. They are skilled at putting the patient at ease and know that many women have never talked to anyone about sexual matters before. There is no need to be nervous in that regard.

A counselor will explain the clinic’s policies and payment options, which are usually based on sliding scale. They will then take your basic medical information and history. If you are seeking contraceptives, the practitioner will discuss your needs and lifestyle to help you decide on the most appropriate method.

Most initial visits include a video or presentation about Planned Parenthood, women’s health, and a demonstration pelvic exam. You may also need to provide a urine sample. The medical exam will consist of checking your blood pressure and heart rate, listening to your chest and lungs, feeling your neck to check your thyroid, a breast exam, pelvic exam and pap smear. If you will be getting a diaphragm, cervical cap or ring, she will check internally for the proper fit.

After the exam, the practitioner will give you instructions on your birth control method and schedule your follow up. The clinic will provide you with your pills or contraceptive devices; there is no need to go to a drugstore to have a prescription filled.

It is important to be honest during your visit. Drinking, smoking, drug use and your lifestyle can impact the effectiveness of certain birth control methods. Planned Parenthood is committed to privacy and confidentiality, so be sure you give accurate information in order to maintain your sexual health.

Filed Under: Parenthood, Planning, Sexual Health Tagged With: , ,

Finally Open in Long Beach: Planned Parenthood for Teens

After a drawn-out process of expansion, Long Beach finally has its own Planned Parenthood center. The community desire and need for health services such as cancer screenings, annual check-ups, and sexually transmitted disease screenings, will finally be met by this branch of Planned Parenthood Los Angeles. Adrianne Black, the co-CEO of Planned Parenthood Los Angeles remarked that the community need has been remarkable in Long Beach, and that the community members are relieved to have these services available to their youth.

The rate of contracted sexually transmitted diseases in Los Angeles County is bad, compared to national statistics, but it’s nothing compared to Long Beach’s reports. The Planned Parenthood at the Lakewood Center is nearest to Long Beach, and for many years it has been the busiest of the 18 branches in the Los Angeles County region. Many of the people visiting the Lakewood Center admit that they drove from Long Beach for services like birth control. Without affordable contraceptives and birth control, many teens are forced to take changes and risk their futures on luck.

The Long Beach facility opened in February, but did not start operating full time until September. A private open house exhibit of informational materials will take place in September on the 22nd. During this economic recession, hardships have befallen families that would usually not require Planned Parenthood services. The services available at the 19 facilities in Los Angeles County are able to fill the need for contraceptives and check-ups, in addition to advising people on how to qualify for Medicaid, and where to seek additional services.

Wellness exams for women are among the most popular services that community members request, in addition to sexually transmitted diseases screenings, and birth control. Only 14% of customers at Planned Parenthood are male, and usually those are accompanied by females.

Filed Under: Sexual Health, Sexual Orientation Tagged With: , , , , , , ,

Using the Withdrawal Method as Birth Control

Birth control preferences vary from person-to-person and is simply a matter of finding the method that is compatible with their lifestyle and choices. Realizing that there are risks associated with any form of birth control, whichever method is used must be able to give the individual or the couple the results they’re looking for.

Since the goal of birth control methods is to prevent pregnancy, it’s important to look closely at the risks involved. The Withdrawal Method is a widely used form of birth control that many couples use to avoid pregnancy. Although the method is common, the pregnancy risks are very high and the method often fails.

During sex and in using the Withdrawal Method, the man removes his penis from the woman’s vagina before ejaculation so as to avoid the sperm uniting with the woman’s egg, which can cause pregnancy if the two join. However, during sex, small amounts of sperm can (and does) leak from the man’s penis and through the semen, travels into the woman’s vagina without detection from either person. By withdrawing before ejaculating, the couple may think that the sperm does not have the chance to reach the woman’s reproductive organs, but it does.

Studies on the male’s reproductive system show that in a normal male’s ejaculation, there are generally about 300-500 million sperm contained in the 1 teaspoon of fluid that they emit. That means that there are over 300-500 million chances in 1 that a pregnancy is likely to occur by using this method. This doesn’t mean that a pregnancy will or won’t occur, just that it’s likely.

By contrast, there are couples who have and continue to use this method as their main means of birth control, although the risks are great. While it is a personal choice, being informed about the risks are necessary in order to make an intelligent decision.

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Filed Under: Advice, Contraception, Sexual Health Tagged With: , , ,

Is the Birth Control Shot Really Effective?

The birth control shot became so popular because it is easy, fast and convenient and the woman only has to get the shot anywhere from 2-4 times per year, making it a very popular method.

Progesterone, the hormone in the birth control shot, works by preventing the egg’s release during the woman’s monthly menstrual cycle. Since a woman gets pregnant if she ovulates, without having this process, the chances of pregnancy are significantly reduced.

Birth control studies have shown that out of every 100 individuals who use this method, only 3 experiences an accidental pregnancy. So while the method is not 100% fool-proof, the averages are extremely high enough to encourage women to use the shot as their main means of birth control.

The shot is administered every three months through an injection into the buttocks. It stays in the person’s system for three months, and after that time, they need to have the shot administered again. It’s very important to get the shots as necessary to reduce any chances of pregnancy because the likelihood does increase if the person waits longer than the 3-month time period to get their injection.

Women who are interested in receiving the birth control injection should consult with their doctor to ensure that the shots won’t interfere with other medications they’re taking. They should also talk with their doctor about any associated risks or side effects (though minimal) that can occur with the injections as well. Some risks that may occur include weight gain, spotting, hormonal imbalance and of course accidental pregnancies.

For many women, the convenience of the birth control injection far outweighs the possible risks and offers them a lifestyle that is very flexible, especially for the busy woman. With a shot that is administered every quarter, they love the idea that they don’t have to think about birth control outside of 4 times a year.

Filed Under: Advice, Contraception, Prenatal Care, Sexual Health Tagged With: , , ,

The Importance Of Health Screening

Early detection of conditions and diseases can often mean the difference between a cure and a devastating diagnosis. When it comes to sexual health, there are several conditions that can have grave consequences if left undetected and untreated. Fortunately, there are simple tests that can help detect these conditions early and improve the patient’s outcome.

Cancer experts agree that the sooner the diagnosis is made, the higher the survival rate. Breast, cervical and uterine cancers can often be detected through relatively simple tests and screenings such as breast exams, mammograms and pap smears. These tests are widely available and can help detect changes that might indicate cancer. When these cancers are treated before they have a chance to spread through the body, the patient has a much higher chance of survival.

An age-old sexually transmitted disease, Gonorrhea can also have devastating effects if left untreated for long periods of time. Because this disease was rarely seen for decades, it is making a comeback due to people’s lack of awareness and failure to test for it regularly. When caught early it is easy to treat with a few rounds of antibiotics. If left untreated, it can cause Pelvic Inflammatory Disease, male and female infertility, blindness and can eventually lead to death. The longer it remains in the body, the harder it is to treat and the greater the chance of serious complications.

Some strains of Human Papilloma Virus (HPV) cause genital warts that can become cancerous. The warts themselves are easily treated, and can be biopsied to see if they indicate cancerous changes. Not only can they be discovered during a basic pelvic exam, but there is also a vaccine available that can prevent infection from HPV.

Regular health screening from a gynecologist or other women’s health care provider can identify these conditions, and hopefully can eliminate the tragic consequences of leaving these serious medical issues untreated.

Filed Under: General, Sexual Health Tagged With: , ,
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