http://www.IndianWomensHealth.com/IndianWomensHealth RSS Feed. http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Swine-Flu-315.aspx The rise of incidences of Swine flu (also known as Swine influenza) has been one of the most concerning developments of year 2009. The disease we commonly refer to as swine flu is an infection caused by a virus that was traditionally believed to affect only pigs. It was also thought that people usually do not get the swine flu. However, over the last year or two it is seen that human infections can and do happen. The media label ‘swine flu’ was given to the flu tha... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Choline-For-smarter-babies-314.aspx Choline is an important nutrient for pregnant and breastfeeding women. It has been shown to influence the brain and spinal cord structure and lifelong memory function. Studies show that almost not many are familiar with the nutrient and its benefits.What is choline?Choline is an organic compound, classified as a water-soluble essential nutrient and usually grouped within the vitamin B complex. Although discovered in the late 18th century, choline was not recognized as a ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Emergency-Contraception-306.aspx Emergency contraception is just what it sounds like—contraceptives which are intended for occasional use during emergency. It is the only form of birth control method that can be used after unprotected sex. Emergency contraception offers a chance to avoid pregnancy if you did not or could not use contraception or you suspect that your current methods failed. It is gaining popularity among today’s women as they are easy to use and effective too. This section aims... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Myths-about-Emergency-Contraceptives-313.aspx There are still lots of misconceptions flying around about emergency contraception. Many people are still confused about how emergency contraception works and how it should be used. Here are some myths and truths about contraception to help you understand the facts. Myth: EC causes birth defectsEC does not increase the risk for birth defects. EC does not harm an established pregnancy. It will not harm your developing baby even if you don’t realize you are pregnant and ha... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Getting-Pregnant-after-Emergency-Contraceptives-312.aspx What are your chances of getting pregnant after ECP? Emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) can only reduce your chance of getting pregnant by 75%. ECP works by preventing a pregnancy before it happens. The sooner ECPs are taken after unprotected sex, the more effective they are in preventing pregnancy. It is not effective if implantation, i.e., when a fertilized egg has attached itself to the wall of the womb has already occurred. So ECP will not work if a woman is already ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Side-Effects-of-Emergency-Contraceptives-311.aspx Side effects associated with Emergency Contraceptive Pills Taking emergency contraceptive pill (ECP) has not been shown to cause any long-term health problems. However, it may cause side effects in some women. Any side effects you experience after taking ECP will normally go away quickly. Progestin-only pills are less severe than symptoms experienced with estrogen and progestin containing pills. Common side effects associated with ECP include: Nausea and vomitingNa... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Rational-Use-of-Emergency-Contraceptives-310.aspx How effective is emergency contraception? The effectiveness of emergency contraception (EC) depends on which kind of EC you use and how quickly you take it after unprotected sexual intercourse. Studies indicate that emergency contraceptive pills are 75% effective in preventing pregnancies if taken within the first 72 hours of unprotected intercourse. Emergency contraception pills are most effective when used as soon as possible after having unprotected sex. The term “mor... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/How-Emergency-Contraceptives-Work-309.aspx The precise mode of action of ECs is not known. It is understood that these prevent pregnancy by: Keeping the egg from leaving the ovary Keeping the sperm from meeting the eggKeeping the fertilized egg from attaching to the uterus.If you are already pregnant, emergency contraception will NOT work.Emergency contraception pills (ECP) are made of the same hormones found in birth control pills. Hormones are chemicals made in our bodies. They control how different parts of th... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Types-of-Emergency-Contraceptives-308.aspx There are 2 most widely accepted methods of emergency contraception (EC). Contraceptive pills and Postcoital insertion of intrauterine device (IUD) With the first, you take special doses of birth control pills. With the other, an intrauterine device (also called an IUD) is placed in your uterus (or womb). Emergency contraceptive pills Emergency contraceptive pills (ECPs) are the most well-known method of postcoital contraception. Two types of ECPs are availabl... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Basics-of-Emergency-Contraception-307.aspx There are millions of unplanned, and often unwanted, pregnancies every year despite the availability of highly effective methods of contraception or due to contraception failure.Unplanned pregnancy can occur with all age groups. Although effective contraception is readily available, there are times when a safe and emergency method for birth control is required, especially in situations when a condom breaks or a woman forgets to take her birth control pills or if a ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Immunization-During-Pregnancy-304.aspx If you are pregnant or planning to get pregnant, a talk with your obstetrician about your vaccines and immunizations is essential.Why is immunization important in pregnancy?Some infections can harm you and your unborn baby. Immunization is the easiest and safest way to prevent many infectious diseases. During pregnancy, immunization makes you resistant against diseases that pose the greatest and common risk. It also protects your baby, when he/she is in the womb and afte... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Week-39-and-40-302.aspx Your changing bodyYou may be counting the days now! You probably may have not noticed much change in your body since last week. However, you still may be feeling huge and uncomfortable. Start watching out for early signs of labor like blood discharge, increased contractions, water breakage and the loss of the mucous plug (collection of cervical mucus that seals the opening of the uterus). Read more about stages of labor.During week 40, you may go into labor anytime now. ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Week-37-and-38-301.aspx Changes in your bodyMost likely you may notice there has not been any significant weight gain since last week. Around 37 weeks, the frequency of Braxton Hicks contractions may increase. Your doctor may check if your mucus plug is expelled in preparation of delivery. A mucus plug blocks the opening of the cervix to prevent bacteria from entering your uterus. Passing a mucus plug is a sign that your cervix is opening as your body begins to prepare for delivery. Keep in min... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Week-35-and-36-300.aspx Your changing bodySince your expanded uterus is just being underneath your rib cage, you may be feeling short of breath at times. From now on, as your body descends deeper into your pelvic cavity which is called lightening or dropping, the upward pressure of the uterus on the diaphragm may be relieved. As a result you may not feel so short of breath and eating a full meal becomes more comfortable for you. However you may have increased frequency of urination or leaking o... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Week-33-and-34-299.aspx Your changing bodyAround week 33, you may start to notice that your ankles and feet seem to be swollen, especially when the weather is warm, or after standing or sitting for a period of time and at the end of the day. You need not get alarmed as it is due to the increase in body fluids during pregnancy.Your uterus is still growing at a consistent rate during week 34. Sometimes you may get a tingling sensation or numbness in the pelvis as your pelvic joints loosen in prep... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Week-31-and-32-298.aspx Your changing bodyAs you progress through the third trimester, you may start to leak colostrums or pre-milk from your breasts around week 31. Colostrum or pre-milk is yellowish or creamy substance which is usually thicker than the milk. It is the first stage of milk that is formed in your breast and may lasts for several days after the birth of your baby. Colostrum contains antibodies that may be important in protecting your baby against disease. However, many women don’... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Week-29-and-30-297.aspx Your changing bodyAround week 29, some discomforts associated with the later part of pregnancy like constipation, leg cramps, etc. may become bothersome for you at this stage. As your pregnancy progresses, you may begin to feel tired easily and more clumsy in week 30. Due to the pressure of your growing uterus over your bladder, you may be making frequent trips to the loo in the last semester. Getting a good night sleep can be increasingly difficult for you. It is also n... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Week-27-and-28-296.aspx Your changing body At this point, you can expect to feel your baby’s movement quite often. However some movements could be due to occasional hiccups. Surprisingly you may find your baby’s movement very comforting at this point. Around week 28, your uterus will be significantly above your belly button—around 9 cm or more. You may have gained around 5 kg by now. You may also begin experiencing constipation, sleeping troubles, leg cramps and hemorrhoids during thi... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Week-25-and-26-295.aspx Your changing bodyAround week 25, some women may have pain and numbness in their fingers. This is because the carpal tunnel in the wrist, through which the nerve runs, becomes swollen during pregnancy (like many other tissues in your body), with the resultant pressure causing numbness, tingling and pain. Your hands, wrist and arm may also be affected.The top of your uterus may be about 6 cm above your belly button in week 26. In every regular check up, your doctor will b... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Week-23-and-24-294.aspx Your changing bodyYour gums may become swollen, inflamed and tend to bleed easily because of pregnancy hormones around week 23. You may notice that your gums bleed every time you brush. If left untreated it can lead to severe form of gum diseases which increases a woman’s risk of having a premature baby. Fortunately, these problems are completely avoidable by practicing a routine dental care.At week 24, as your skin on your belly and breast stretches, you may feel itchy ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Week-21-and-22-293.aspx Your changing bodyYou are probably feeling quite wonderful now that most of the early pregnancy symptoms like nausea, dizziness, frequent urination and fatigue are gone in week 21. You may be able to feel your uterus about a half inch above your navel if you place your fingers. You may notice that your lower legs and feet swell towards the end of the day. This is due to the retention of excessive fluid during pregnancy. Try to get plenty of rest.At week 22, you may have ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Week-19-and-20-292.aspx Your changing bodyAt week 19, you may begin to experience sharp pain in your lower abdomen or hip area. This is due to the stretching of round ligament which supports your uterus. It can be stretched easily during any movements like changing position from sitting to standing quickly, laughing or coughing. You need not be alarmed as it is very common during second trimester. You may experience the pain only for a few seconds.You are now 20 weeks pregnant. Congratulations!... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Week-17-and-18-291.aspx Your changing bodyYou may be gaining weight as your little one is right now having a growth spurt. Average weight gain is generally between 2 and 4 kg. As your belly gets larger, it will slowly push the other organs to accommodate your growing baby and uterus. You may be having more vaginal discharge now.As your belly grows, you may occasionally lose your balance as there is a shift in your center of gravity. Exchange your high-heeled shoes for flat ones to reduce the ri... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Week-15-and-16-290.aspx Your changing bodyYour uterus starts to rise past your hipbones. Your obstetrician will now measure the fundal height (distance from the top of the uterus to the pubic bone) to make sure your baby is growing consistently and adequately. Due to the increasing uterus size and hormonal changes, stretch marks start to appear on your belly.You may find that your libido returns in the second trimester. In fact, you may be easily aroused in part due to the increased blood flow ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Week-13-and-14-289.aspx Your changing bodyYou have officially entered the golden stage of pregnancy. You start looking pregnant as your baby is growing fast and occupying more room. Your uterus has grown quite a bit and feels like a small soft ball. As your baby grows, you also start gaining weight. In addition to the darkening of your areolas, the veins in your breasts become more prominent.As your uterus continues to grow, you may start feeling some aching or discomfort in your abdomen, which... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Week-11-and-12-288.aspx Your changing bodyWhile major changes are happening with your baby, things are going at a slower pace with you. As you are nearing the end of the first trimester, the morning sickness may begin to subside and you may feel like you have a bit more energy and your appetite improves. Your uterus is almost big enough to fill your pelvis and may be felt in your lower abdomen, above the middle of your pubic bone. Some women do notice changes in their hair, fingernails, and toe... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Week-9-and-10-287.aspx Your changing bodyNow at week 9, you may notice a slight bulge in your lower abdomen and a thickening in the waistline, though you may still not look pregnant. Heartburn and constipation along with morning sickness, which are typical signs of pregnancy, can make you uncomfortable. Your breasts also become bigger and sensitive.You might start to feel even more tired and bloated than you have in weeks past. By pregnancy at 9 weeks you have probably noticed some mood swings... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Week-7-and-8-286.aspx Your changing bodyYour uterus increases in size and has become almost double the size. The frequency of urination is more due to pressure of the growing uterus and your increasing blood volume. An appointment with a good obstetrician is carried out during this time where you can confirm your pregnancy. At your first visit, you may be undergoing several tests (baseline weight and blood pressure, pelvic exam, blood test, etc.) to ensure you and your baby’s health. ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Week-5-and-6-285.aspx Your changing bodyYou may start experiencing the early signs of pregnancy like nausea or the morning sickness, tingling or soreness in breasts, darkening of the areola and the frequent need to urinate. You may even feel a cramping or a full feeling in your uterus. Some of you may also get headaches and mood swings from a rise in hormones. Women, in their fifth week of pregnancy, may start craving for certain types of food. For a lot of women this can be normal as well.Fi... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Week-3-and-4-284.aspx Your changing bodyThird week is the time when the sperm comes into contact with the egg inside the fallopian tube following sexual intercourse and fertilization happens resulting in embryo formation. This is the beginning of the pregnancy. During implantation of the embryo, some women may experience spotting because of the movement of the fertilized egg into the uterus. To prevent your body from treating the baby as an invader, your body releases an immunosuppressa... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Week-1-and-2-283.aspx Your changing bodyDuring pregnancy week 1 and pregnancy week 2 you will not know you are pregnant. The earliest weeks are mostly consumed with the process of ovulation and fertilization. Most women will not experience any symptoms except those associated with ovulation and in fact continue with their normal routine lives. You may conceive, but won't realize you are pregnant until the fourth week of pregnancy or beyond as during pregnancy weeks 1 and 2 most women have few... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Third-Trimester-282.aspx The final stage of pregnancy, third trimester, ends with labor and the birth of your baby and is a period of excitement. Large size of your growing baby may bring in physical discomforts and you may experience heartburn, increased fatigue, hemorrhoids, swelling on the ankles and fingers and Braxton Hicks contractions (mild contractions) that last for about 30–60 s. Do not hesitate to contact your doctor if you observe sudden swelling on your ankles and if you ex... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-First-Trimester-280.aspx The first trimester of pregnancy is an exciting and yet scary time and is marked by an invisible, yet amazing transformation. Always remember that the symptoms you experience are generally normal, and most will go away as your pregnancy progresses. Some symptoms you may experience include nausea and vomiting, fatigue (the most pronounced symptoms), frequent urination, food aversion and breast swelling and tenderness.Although, most pregnancy symptoms that you experi... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Second-Trimester-281.aspx The second trimester, the middle part of pregnancy, is the most comfortable  period and is a good time to prepare yourself for the arrival of your little one. As your pregnancy progresses, the nausea and fatigue begin to fade and you start developing the outward symptoms of pregnancy, namely, weight gain and growing belly. Do not be alarmed if you experience shortness of breath or dull aches and pains in your abdomen, groin, back and thighs as these are signs of ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Your-Babys-Sleep-276.aspx The importance of sleepLike food or water, sleep is necessary for your wellbeing. It is essential for aperson’s physical and mental health. This is true for newborns and other babies.Your baby needs plenty of sleep as sleep deprivation can make your baby cranky.Some of the reasons why sleep is important for your baby are:It promotes brain development. It promotes the physical growth of your baby. It helps in storing energy needed for growth. t is needed to develop the li... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Diet-and-Weight-Management-272.aspx Management of weight refers to the conscious efforts of an individual to prevent any weight gain by burning the excess fat accumulated. Obesity, a term used for excess body weight, can be diagnosed when the weight gain of an individual is 20%greater than the ideal weight with regards to the individual’s height and size of body frame. Diet and exercise are the most frequently cited methods for both men and women attempting weight loss. It might be necessary to understand... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Skin-Allergies-268.aspx Itching and pruritusThe human skin is the most vital part of the body and skin allergy is one of the most common problems seen by the dermatologist and one of the most debilitating problems experienced by patients. They can be from hives to swelling, and eczemato drug and medication rashes. Some of the common skin allergies are mentioned below.Pruritus is defined as any itching or unpleasant sensation on the skin that provokes a desire to scratch.It can be a part of skin... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Premature-Greying-252.aspx Graying of hair is a result of natural aging process in humans. Normally, appearance of gray hair varies from person to person depending upon one’s genetic inheritance.It is natural for your hair to turn grayish in color with age.Gray hair is considered a sign of wisdom, when a person has arrived to an age where wisdom has ripened. But it is definitely not a pleasant experience if your hair turns gray as early as before late teens or middle age. It could be quite stressf... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Nail-Types-254.aspx Maintaining strong and healthy nails is not so difficult if you know your nail type.Each nail type is unique and needs to be taken care accordingly. Knowing your nailtype will also help you to go for the right treatment if you have any nail-relatedproblems. There are five different types of nails: dry, brittle, damaged, soft andnormal nails.Dry nails Dry nails appear dull and lack luster.They may have superficial ridges and flaking free edges. They may peel easily.Cuticl... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Eye-Cosmetics-257.aspx A simplest touch of a right eye makeup can make you smashingly beautiful and transformyou instantly. Eyes are considered to be the windows of the soul. They are the firstfeature to be noticed on your face. Eye cosmetics are widely used to enhance thebeauty of the eyes.Eye shadows, eye liner and mascara are the most popular eye cosmeticsand considered the basics for any makeup application. However, eyecosmetics can develop harmful effects on the eyes as well.  Many instan... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Perming-Your-Hair-250.aspx Being creative with the hair is something we all like to do and hair perming would be the most suggestible hairstyle that any hair expert would ever give. Perm hairstyle helps to create a big impact, and is presently, considered as a hair fashion statement.The advantages of hair perming are numerous. The finished perm offers the wearer adaptability and versatility. The hair benefits from the support of a professional body wave, both aesthetically and functionally. Permed... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Discoloration-of-Skin-244.aspx Any alteration in skin tone and texture can mar otherwise perfectly healthy kin.Some of these marks are present at birth and some others appear wit age. Some marksare due to accidental injuries and some are the result of skin neglect and misuse.No matter what the cause of the discoloration may be, the discolorations themselvestend to be disturbing or disfiguring based on several factors such as visibility,color, location and texture of the discolored skin area. This expl... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Teething-Troubles-259.aspx The teething process Teething refers to the phase when your baby gets the firstset of teeth during infancy or early childhood. Erupted through the gums, the firstset of teeth is known as primary teeth or milky teeth.Teething usually begins when your baby is around 6 months of age. The age at whichan infant begins to get teeth may vary and teething may begin in some infants asyoung as 3 months. In some rare cases, a few infants are born with erupted tooth.You will notice ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Eye-Health-256.aspx Your eyes are such a small part of your body, yet they play such a big role in your life. They are like a wonderful kind of camera taking pictures of all what is around you. Our vision is one of those wonderful gifts we generally take for granted. Good eyesight is an essential part of wellbeing and a significant factor in retaining independence and quality of life as we get older. Proper eye care is essential to maintaining the health of our eyes. Given how much... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Cold-Sores-245.aspx Oral herpes infection caused by the herpes simplex virus is commonly known as ‘coldsores’. This is the most common form of the infection with the herpes virus.Herpes virus alternate between active disease and remissions (state of absence of disease activity) and are uncomfortable for the sufferer as the active disease can last anywhere between 2 and 21 days. Given the obvious appearance and prominent location of the lesions, they make the infection of the sufferer obviou... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Boils-247.aspx Boils are a skin condition that is both painful and unsightly and can affect thenormal function of the affected skin area due to the discomfort it causes.These are usually called furuncles when they arise from hair follicles that arepresent all over the body.An infection of the hair follicle or an oil gland results in a collection of pusand fluid, including dead cells. These boils can appear individually or in clusters.An advanced boil can be called a skin abscess.Sympto... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Moles-and-Tumors-249.aspx  Nearly everyone has a few moles or nevi. These may have appeared inchildhood ormay have developed over time. Some moles are even presentat birth. Moles usuallydo not raise concerns other than of a cosmeticnature, but can be worrisome if theyseem to have acquired potential forbecoming malignant. While most moles and tumorsare acquired based onindividual health factor and lifestyle influences, a few oftheselesions have a genetic component that makes them hereditary. What ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Hair-Removal-Tips-253.aspx Hair on a woman’s body is completely natural but many of us choose to remove bodyhair for various medical and cultural reasons. Many women prefer to get rid of hairfrom the parts of body like face, underarm, legs, hands, pubic area, etc. Medicalreasons for hair removal include hirutism, characterized by excess hair growth onthe face, especially the upper lip and chin, as well as on the chest, belly, back,legs, etc. There are various ways to remove unwanted hair.Types of ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Dark-Circles-258.aspx Almost everyone gets dark circles under the eyes at some time or another. Although dark circles usually are temporary and not a medical problem, they can make you look tired, unhealthy and haggard. Moreover, dark circles can make you appear considerably older than you are. Contrary to popular belief, fatigue usually is not the cause of dark circles.Exposure to sun, heredity, nutrient deficiency, sleep deprivation and skin allergies also play a role in developing dark cir... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Common-Nail-Problems-255.aspx Nails are one of the indicators of your general health and well-being. They arenot merely present just for cosmetic purposes but they protect the delicate tipsof your fingers and toes. As nails bear a lot of wear and tear on a daily basis,many nail disorders may be a result of external factors or injury. However, somenail problems can be due to internal illnesses in your body. For example, nail discolorationsmay signal various lung, heart, lungs and liver diseases. Here ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Tips-for-Toy-Safety-261.aspx Toys play an important part of your child’s development. As your child grows, playtimeaids in the acquisition and development of a variety of skills. Your child learnsmany basic skills through play, so any toy she enjoys playing with is beneficialto her. However, toys may pose a hazard to young children if they are not safe andnot used safely. You may need to consider the safety aspects of the toys, your childis going to play with and close supervision is a must.Unfortun... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Potty-training-260.aspx It is said that potty training is supposed to help you bond with your baby. There is no right or wrong way to train your child to use a potty chair, and there is no magic age at which your child is ready for the potty training. Generally toddlers develop required physical and cognitive skills at the age of 18–24 months. Some children learn quickly this new skill, while others take time.Start the potty training only when you and your baby are ready. Choose a time that you... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Healthy-Eating-Tips-273.aspx Major areas of concern in public health nutrition have moved from problems of nutritionaldeficiency to problems of excesses and imbalances. It now appears that problemsof over consumption are as prevalent as the problems of under consumption.There is sufficient scientific evidence to suggest that diets high in total fat and sugars and diets low in fiber and carbohydrates are linked to coronary artery diseases, diabetes, stroke and certain cancers. In view of this, changi... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Weight-Loss-Myths-275.aspx Weight loss advertisements are generally deceptive. It is easy to get confused andmislead. Hence it is important to help clear up confusions about weight loss, nutritionand physical activity. A registered dietitian or a qualified health professionalwill be able to advise a healthy eating plan and how to lose weight safely and moreimportantly how to keep it off.There is no single method for weight loss that can be completely relied upon. Weightloss, which is healthy and c... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Caring-for-Twins-277.aspx Having twins can be an exciting time for you. While twins bring special joys, caringfor more than one baby at a time can cause considerable emotional, physical andfinancial stress on a family. You may often find yourself overwhelmed, stressed,fatigued and depressed at times.From nappy changes to breastfeeding, soothing the babies to sleep, each routinemay seem an uphill task for you in the initial stages. Yet despite of all the challenges,handling twins may be less diffi... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Children-and-Fitness-279.aspx Developing a habit of regular physical activity is a key to your child’s well being.It has a tremendous impact on physical, intellectual and mental development of a child. Children who are active at a young age are likely to remain physically fit as adults and they have a lower risk of developing heart disease or becoming obese.Since physical activity ensures physical fitness, it sets the foundation for a long and healthy life.For young children, exercise will most likel... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Discliplining-Your-Child-263.aspx The need for discipline Discipline is a necessary part of your child’s development.As a parent, it is your job to teach your child right from wrong, how to respectothers and make them realize that society has certain common rules that everyoneis expected to live by. Your child needs to know the difference between acceptableand unacceptable behavior. More importantly, disciplining your child is one wayof setting her on the right path.Disciplining your child does not mean ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Hair-Straightening-251.aspx People with curly hair envy those with straight and smooth hair and many times, the frizziness and the tangles forces one to go after hair straightening options. Hair straightening as a cosmetic process is the reverse of hair waving. It removes hair curliness and makes wavy hair straight. Hair straightening as a cosmetic process is the reverse of hair waving. It removes hair curliness and makes wavy hair straight. Many hair straightening methods are available in the mark... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Eczema-248.aspx Eczema is a skin condition characterized by inflammation of the skin which results in a type of dermatitis. Thus, the term ‘eczema’ refers to a broad range of persistentor chronic skin conditions which may also include dryness and rashes which may be accompanied by reddening of the skin, local swelling, itching, flaking, cracking,oozing or bleeding. As the lesions heal, temporary skin discoloration may appear and even scarring is possible at times.Types of eczemaEczema c... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Fungal-Infections-246.aspx Fungal infections are also called mycoses and can be caused by various types of fngi. Fungal organisms are ubiquitous in our environment and some even live within or on the human body. Of all the fungi inexistence, only a few are particularly harmful in causing disease.Fungal infections can frequently occur through the spores that can be lodged on your skin following exposure to air or water carrying these spores.It is also possible to contract an infection by inhaling t... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Weight-Loss-Surgery-274.aspx Weight loss surgery refers to various surgical procedures, which are performed tocontrol obesity by modifying the gastrointestinal tract and reducing its absorptionof nutrients. This surgery is often termed as bariatric surgery. Prevalence of overweightand obesity has reached pandemic proportions and is contributing to premature morbidityand mortality because of increasing nourishment and a decrease in physical exercise.Surgery for weight loss has shown to be very effect... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Travelling-With-Your-Newborn-278.aspx Traveling with your newborn can be fun and enjoyable. By the age of 2–4 weeks, yourbaby is fit enough to travel, as long as the trip is well planned. But, travelingwith a newborn presents some challenges that can be overcome with ease by properplanning and preparation. Infact, traveling with a newborn is much easier as shecannot run around and get into trouble as older children.Traveling by plane, train or car does not matter as long as your baby is amusedand comfortable... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Winter-Beauty-Tips-267.aspx Changing temperatures mean a change of routine in all parts of the world, even ina country like India that is almost in the tropics.Understanding what your skin goes through in winter can help you tweak a few habits  to get a glowing complexion and healthy skin in winter. Here are a few tips to help you get it right!Get the blood flowingExercise is crucial to staying healthy through the winter months. A daily routineof aerobics and cardio exercises can loosen up your mus... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Common-Eye-Problems-270.aspx Eye problems affect almost everyone at some point in their lives. Just like anyother organ in your body, your eyes are subject to normal wear and tear. As youage, you are more prone to developing certain eye problems that can affect yourvision and can even lead to loss of eyesight in serious condition.Being aware of the causes and risk factors of several eye problems can help preventand manage certain eye diseases. Taking care of your eyes is the first step to improveyou... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Aerobics-vs.-Weight-Training-271.aspx A kind of movement of the body, which enhances the intake of oxygen and the pumpingof the heart, is called aerobic exercise. Rhythmic movements and even light dancingcan also be grouped under this.There has always been a debate on the advantages or disadvantages of aerobics overweight training or vice versa. The fact remains that they are quite different inthe type of exercise and also in the use of different energy burning sources ofthe body. They also completely differ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Being-a-Working-Mother-241.aspx A working mother is a woman with the ability to combine a career with the added responsibility of raising a child. Working mothers have often received a lot of negative publicity. They are blamed for not taking proper care of their children;leaving them in day-care for extended periods, palming them off on anyone who will look after them. The argument is that their learning and development will suffer because you are not with them 24 h a day, 7 days a week, how your work... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Tips-to-Slim-Down-238.aspx Despite what one may think, losing weight is not a mysterious process. In fact,weight loss does not even have to involve strange diets, special exercises or even the 'magic' of pills or fitness gadgets.The secret to weight loss is to make small changes each and every day and you will slowly lose those kilograms. Some tips for losing weight are: Pay attentionwhile you eat. Many times, we snack while doing other things such aswatching TV. Without even knowing it, we have c... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Emotional-Eating-239.aspx Emotional eating can be described as eating behavior that changes with changes ina person’s mood. Remember the time you were stressed about your work and wolfeddown an entire bar of chocolate and still felt unsatisfied? Or the way chips disappearfrom your bowl when you are bored or alone? Those were the occasions when you gavein to your emotions and indulged in food as a form of escape instead of dealingwith your emotions.What makes you an emotional eater?It is normal to... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Diaper-Rash-240.aspx What is diaper rash?Diaper rash refers to the term used to describe a rash or irritation in the area covered by the diaper, causing your baby discomfort and fretfulness.It is marked by redness and small bumps in the diaper region—lower abdomen, buttocks,genital and the thigh folds.Diaper rash can occur on any skin surface that has been in direct contact with the wet or soiled diaper.It is more common in infants andchildren younger than 2 years. Diaper rash is rarely seri... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Exercise-and-Weight-Loss-237.aspx Everyone wants to look our best all the time and we go after different methods to reduce our weight and look good. Studies have shown that there is a connection between overweight and disease conditions like diabetes, heart problems, increased blood pressure, gout, etc. So, it is essential for one to balance their weight according to their height.We become overweight when we consume more calories than our body requires. To avoid that, we need to control what we eat and h... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Diabetes-and-Nutrition-231.aspx Medical nutrition therapy (Therapeutic nutrition) has been reported as being an important and integral aspect in the management of diabetes. This becomes a crucial modulator in the self-management of diabetes considering the prevalence of obesity and overweight as complicating aspects of diabetes. Effective use of principles of nutrition in diabetes can contribute significantly toward the prevention of or minimizing the potentially permanent and damaging complications ar... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Tattooing-232.aspx WTattoos keep going in and out of fashion over time, but have always been used asa means of expressing specific aspects of an individual’s identity. In addition,they are also counted as a form of art and recent developments have resulted insale, purchase and exhibition of this form of body art.What is a tattoo? A tattoo is a permanent marking made by inserting ink into the skin to change thepigment for decorative purposes or for other reasons. Tattoos on humans have been... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Lip-Care-243.aspx Soft and smooth lips make your face more beautiful and lively. Lips always draw attention and they figure among the foremost indicator of physical beauty. Beautiful lips enhance the beauty of your face. Being one of the most sensitive parts of your body, lip care should be included in your regular skincare routine.Chapped dry lipsThe skin on lips is extremely thinand lacks oil glands, making your lips prone to dryness. Hence yourskin tends to get dry and cracked easily. ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Communicating-with-Your-Child-262.aspx Why communication is important? Communication between parent and child is not alwayseasy, and is perhaps one of the toughest challenges that parents have to face. Itis important to establish and maintain good communication with your child. Communicationis a two-way bridge that connects you and your child. It is essential in helpingyour child develop self-esteem and confidence. Healthy communication can make thetough parts of parenting, such as disciplining your child, mu... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Nutrition-and-Protein-Facts-229.aspx Protein is one of the essential nutrients that are required by the human body. No other nutrient has a diversified role in keeping us alive and healthy. Protein is needed for cell replacement, maintenance and repair and regulation of a wide range of bodily functions. It is important for the growth and repair of the muscles, bones, skin, tendons, ligaments, hair, eyes and other tissues. Lack of proteins will reduce the enzyme and hormones which are needed for various meta... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Taking-Care-of-Oily-Skin-217.aspx At the outset, it would be better to clear up the notion that oily skin requires harsh treatment or a regimen that is diametrically opposed to dry skin. Oily skin needs as much care and attention as dry skin does, though probably with better results. Oily skin typically appears shiny, thick, and dull and may have coarse pores and pimples or other blemishes. This skin is prone to developing blackheads as the oil-producing sebaceous glands are overactive and produce more o... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Summer-Beauty-Tips-218.aspx Summer days are great for relaxation and recreation. The sun is literally brighter, the days are longer, and the warm weather is ideal for just spending time with family and friends or for taking off on sightseeing or shopping jaunts. But, you would want to remember that summer is also a time when different rules of beauty care apply. The hot, lazy days can take their toll if you are not too careful about your regimen. Here are a few tips for getting through summer while... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Scabies-220.aspx What are moisturizers? What is scabies? Scabies is a contagious skin condition, characterized by itchy bumps and blisters on the surface of the skin. It is caused by Sarcoptes scabiei, which is a tiny, eight-legged burrowing mite and is not visible to the naked eye. Scabies can be easily spread from person to person. Symptoms Scabies produce red itchy bumps andblisters on various surfaces of your body. The most common symptom ofscabies is severe itching. Itching tends to... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Healthy-Weight-Loss-222.aspx Weight loss and weight management is mistaken by many as comprising ofa starvation-oriented diet that aims at reducing excess weight. Thecardinal rule of weight loss that cannot be stressed enough is ‘neverstarve yourself’. Your body has been designed to factor in extremecircumstances that can adversely affect health and will cautiously stepinto a storage mode where each morsel you consume will be hoardedagainst a perceived time of want. The end result would be frustrati... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Nutrition-and-Women-223.aspx The fact that women have highly different phases in life because of the reproductive factor in their life is a reason for the variance in women’s nutritional needs as compared to men. Menstruation, pregnancy, breast-feeding and menopause are all periods of increased physiological stress and nutritional demand. Eating healthy will keep your energy levels high and will make it so much easier for you to manage the multiple responsibilities and commitments that you have to d... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Nutrition-After-Surgery-225.aspx Nutritional depletion has been identified as a major cause of post-surgical complications. Causes for nutritional depletion include inadequate intake, surgical stress and the subsequent rise in the metabolic rate of the body. Why it happens Post-operatively, oral intake of foods and liquids is held off, especially in surgeries where there has been handling of the intestines, due to fear of causing problems with the normal gastrointestinal mechanisms. For this reason, sur... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Eating-out---Some-Tips-226.aspx Eating out has become a routine aspect of one’s life. No longer is that lavish buffet lunch reserved for weekends and eating with friends nor is the guilt-inducing a la carte elaborate dinner for special occasions alone. Even if eating out used to imply eating at a restaurant, the development of takeaway menus and ease of home-delivered food have added to the indulgence in foods cooked away from the home. In a sense, you have no idea what you are eating when you eat out.... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Facial-Masks-and-Scrubs-216.aspx Facial masks have been around for thousands of years. The main purpose of facial masks and scrubs has been skin treatment while primarily focusing on exfoliating dead skin and dirt from the face.The need As you age, skin cells will die and form a build-up due to the effects caused by slowing down of collagen and elastin production. This build-up can have the effect of blocking skin pores and causing signs of aging as well as a lack-luster look accompanied by skin eruptio... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Body-Shapes-221.aspx The female body shape is designed by genetic influences and hormonal mechanisms.However, slight and not-so-slight variations can be noted in all women. Though itis improbable that unique beings such as humans could possibly be categorized intospecific groups, it is still possible to classify women’s shapes into four majorshapes. This is because female bodies have one of four elementary geometries, irrespectiveof fat percentage, weight, width or height.These four shapes c... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Shampooing-Tips-234.aspx Care of the hair and healthy growth of those tresses begins with simple steps likecutting in right and give them the proper nourishment and care they need. This includesright way of shampooing hair with the products meant for your particular hair-typeand conditioning and nourishing it so it looks glossy and healthy—and remains thatway too.As hair is actually dead protein, it is necessary to keep it clean. Shampoos are designed to cleanse the hair and scalp, removing dir... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Conditioning-Your-Hair-235.aspx Proper hair care is essential for healthy hair. Many think that shampooing the hair alone is sufficient to clean, protect and nourish it. While most of the dirt and dust is removed with proper use of a good shampoo, shampooing the hair is by no means enough. The use of a good conditioner must follow.The chemicals in the shampoo have a tendency to dry out the hairalong with the cleaning process. Coupled with the harsh conditions the hair is otherwise exposed to, mere sha... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Nail-Cosmetics-236.aspx Well-groomed nails are an important asset for a modern woman. Just like your skin,nails also need proper care. Nail cosmetics are used to enhance the appearance ofyour nails. Many women go to beauty salons to do manicures and pedicures. Althoughmost nail cosmetics are considered safe, but they may also be a source of significantadverse effects.Allergy, irritation and infections are some of the side-effects of using nail cosmetics.Improper use of nail cosmetics at home or... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Analyze-Your-Hair-233.aspx Most of us are clueless about the terms that are used to describe the proper quality of hair and tend to think of hair in terms of being thick or fine, and curly or straight. But in truth, there are several factors should be considered when analyzinghair: texture, density, wave pattern, elasticity and porosity. Each of these factors combine to give us endless variety in hair types.TextureHair texture is the measure of the circumference of the hair strand itself or in sim... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Managing-Menopause-227.aspx Menopause is a time in a woman’s life when her periods stop permanently. It marks the end of the reproductive period and it is usually confirmed when you have missed your periods for a consecutive of 12 months. Menopause is not a disorder but a natural biological process. Most women reaches menopause between the ages of 45 and 55, although both early and late menopause are not unusual. Menopause is considered premature if it occurs in a woman before the age of 40 years a... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-and-Sleep-228.aspx Getting a good night’s sleep may be one of the greatest challenges you face during pregnancy. Remember your body is working hard to protect and nurture the developing baby. Getting enough sleep is vital as your body needs enough rest as you tend to get more tired than usual during this period. Stress, anxiety, hormonal alterations and physical discomforts are some factors which may affect your sleep. You may have problems falling asleep or you just cannot seem to find a ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Nutrition-in-Cancer-Care-230.aspx Cancer is a term used to refer malignant tumors. In this condition, cells in a tissueproliferate without the normal controls on growth and spread to the adjacent issues,interfering with the function and often have undesirable systemic effects.Importance of nutrition therapy Diet is an important part of cancer treatment. Cancer patients have special nutritionneeds and issues related to eating. Eating the right kinds of foods before, duringand after treatment can help the ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Nutrition-and-Your-Age-224.aspx Nutritional needs vary with the changing requirements of our body as we journey through life. The metamorphosis of the needs of the developing body of the child to those of regeneration and maintenance in the adult and of aging in the older individual are accompanied by marked changes that reflect changing hormonal and physiological mechanisms. In women, these changes are more acute at times given the stressors of menstruation, pregnancy, breastfeeding and menopause. Tak... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Moisturizers-214.aspx Who would not want to have silky smooth and baby-soft skin? The way to attainment of such lovely skin is not arduous or impossible. All it takes is to keep your skin cared for as you would care for your baby—protection, nourishment and the right diet. Skin being one of the largest organs in the body, it also derives its nutrition from the mechanism of local absorption. Agents such as moisturizers then begin to be vital aspects of healthy skin care.  What are moisturizers... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Facials-215.aspx A facial is a cosmetic treatment of the face, usually involving a variety of skin treatments and is usually performed in beauty salons and spas, and sometimes even at home. A facial is a good way to soothe the nerves and rejuvenate the skin as the face goes through the cleansing, nourishing and toning regime. Their mechanisms for delivering this effect are believed to be derived by increasing blood circulation, tightening facial muscles, removing dead skin cells, toning ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Combination-Skin-Care-211.aspx If certain areas of your face are oily and other areas are dry, you have combination skin. In such skin types, skin feels normal or dry on most days over most of the face. The oily skin would appear to be concentrated across the forehead and nose and chin areas in the T-zone. Diagnosing combination skinYou will know you have combination skin if, Some areas of your face feel taut after washing. These areas may also look dull and flaky or feel rough to the touch.Other area... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Aromatherapy-209.aspx Aromatherapy is the therapeutic use of fragrances to maintain and promote physiologicaland physical well-being. The basis of aromatherapy lies in the essential aromaticplant oils. Essential oils are extracted from the plant materials—leaves, flowers,roots, bark, etc. These oils are highly concentrated but it can be used either inthe pure or the diluted form to produce the desired effect.Essential oils have been found to produce healing effects to treat physical illnesse... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Dry-Skin-Nourishment-213.aspx Dry skin is a problem that usually draws intermittent attention—mostly in the cold, winter months when the problem gets intense enough to cause significant discomfort in terms of pain and unsightly appearance. Most people do not even realize that dry skin is a health problem that needs corrective measures both, externally and internally. That means, a change in erroneous dietary patterns and habits is called for if you would like to bid dry skin goodbye. Characteristics ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Anti-Wrinkle-Tips-208.aspx The wisdom that comes with age is very welcome and much longed for. But, the associated wrinkles and graying hair are agonized over. Most of us would wish to enter our autumn years with the maturity and wisdom that life has bestowed over a couple of decades—but without the wrinkles! There is no magic cream or proven treatment that would give you youthful wrinkle-free skin as you age. But, here are a few tips to help you beat wrinkles while you age gracefully. Anti-... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Cleansing-Your-Skin-210.aspx The fact that skin is the largest organ in the body, including it is also being a sense organ, makes it important that there is adequate care and conditioning provided to keep skin healthy and functional. One of the main factors involved in caring  for skin is cleansing of the skin. This cleansing needs to be holistic so that skin is cleaned from within and from the outside.When to cleanCleansing depends on the skin type, which predominantly determines how, how much and ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Dealing-with-Cellulite-212.aspx Cellulite is an almost exclusively a female concern because female fat cells are clustered in sacs and are arranged in vertical columns. Aging results in hardening of the septae that hold the fat cells together, and these buoyant cells push through the septa causing a dimpled appearance. In addition, women by nature also contain nearly two times as much fat as men do, making fat cells more visible. Cellulite is not caused by increased fat and even the skinniest womancan ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Why-Smoking-Can-Hurt-206.aspx Cigarette smoking is injurious to health” - so screams the hoardings,cigarette advertisements and ironically even the cigarette packet thatyou hold. Yet, smokers continue to smoke with the “thought” - thewarning is not for me.When you smoke, with each puff of smoke that you inhale into yourlungs, you pollute your body with more than 2500 poisonous chemicalscapable of causing different types of cancers.The major contents of cigarettes are: Nicotine - A highly addictive, c... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/AIDS-189.aspx Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome (AIDS) is a chronic, life-threatening disease caused by a virus called human immunodeficiency virus (HIV). The virus and the infection are known as HIV. Acquired immunodeficiency syndrome is a term used to refer to the later stages of the infection. Your body’s immune system protects you from diseases. But when the HIV virus attacks your body’s immune system it damages and/or destroys the cells of your immune system making you easily pr... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Transexualism-190.aspx What is transexualism? Transexualism is a gender identity disorder in which a person assumes the characteristics and permanently acts the part of the gender opposite to his or her biological sex. It is an intense disturbance of a person's sense of sexual identity, where there is a deep desire to be the opposite sex. The person may also believe that he or she is "trapped" in a body of the wrong sex. Transexualism affects men to a greater degree than it affects women. Caus... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Divorce-191.aspx A divorce can be one of the most damaging and disastrous episode in a woman’s life. Besides the emotional trauma of separation there are various other practical day-to-day stresses that a woman may have to deal with. She will have to learn to handle life alone, reorganizing her daily life, dealing with the loss of a relationship and the social pressure to establish a new identity for herself among her friends, colleagues and peers. All this can take an immense toll on he... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Sexual-Harassment-186.aspx Sexual harassment affects all women in some form or the other. Lewd remarks, touching, wolf-whistles, looks are part of any woman’s life, so much so that it is dismissed as normal. Sexual harassment is nothing less than the showcasing of maledominance.It is a form of gender discrimination that involvesunwelcomed sexual advances, requests for sexual favors and other verbalor physical conduct of a sexual nature, and occurs when:Unwelcomed is determined by the recipientSubm... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Fighting-Harassment-187.aspx Is it really sexual harassment? As a general rule, people have different levels of sensitivity—conduct that does not offend most reasonable men might offend most reasonable women. Differing levels of sensitivity have led some courts to adopt a‘reasonable woman’ standard for judging cases of sexual harassment.Under the standard, if a reasonable woman would fell harassed,harassment may have occurred even if a reasonable man might not see itthat way.Identifying an unwelcome... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Harassment-Laws-188.aspx Sexual harassment is nothing less than the showcasing of male dominance. Given an opportunity, such men (those committing sexual harassment) would try fulfilling their desire.   However, it is also not true that all cases of sexual harassment are such—where the accused is guilty of conceiving the intention of a sexual intercourse. But it also depends on each individual case and circumstances, because it may well be the case that the woman may also be at fault.  Studies f... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Unplanned-Pregnancy-181.aspx You and your partner lead a healthy sex life and use the right birth control methods. Then one day you notice that you missed your periods. You may just ignore it as “one of those odd things”. It is not as if women get their periods in precision timing, after all. You do not take it seriously as you believe you have taken all the precautions necessary to prevent an unwanted pregnancy. But then the doubt keeps nagging at you and you finally take a home pregnancy test pray... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Opting-For-Abortion-182.aspx Opting for an abortion is a difficult decision. On occasions, it is a forced decision that you may have to make, considering social, familial or financial reasons. Yet, sometimes, it can be a painful one if your doctor suggests an abortion citing reasons such as the health of your baby in the womb or your own present health condition. It is recommended that you talk to your partner, family as well as your doctor before you make your decision. Abortion is a low-risk proce... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Sexual-Abuse-183.aspx Reports of sexual abuse and incest are increasing as each day passes by. Reports show that 1 in 2 children are sexually abused by the time she reaches the age of 18. Seventy-five percent of the abuses are done by family members. Sexual abuse is any form of nonconsensual physical contact. It includes rape, molestation or any sexual conduct with a person who lacks the mental capacity to exercise consent.Incest is defined as sexual relations of any kind by a biologically or... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Sexual-Violence-184.aspx Sexual violence is defined as sexual relations without the consent and against the will of another person. Any sexual behavior into which one is forced, tricked or coerced is sexual violence. Both men and women can be the victims of sexual violence, although the majority of victims are often females. The perpetrator or offender is most often male. However, there are many instances where women have been the offenders. Sexual violence usually takes place in an apparently i... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Anger-Management-178.aspx Anger is a natural emotion, just like so many of the other emotions that you go through in your day-to-day life. It is in fact a natural response to certain perceived threats that you may come across while dealing with situations. It can happen anywhere, at anytime. You may get into a yelling contest with a stranger at a traffic jam or you may get into a wordy dual with a petrol pump attendant. It could be a nasty screaming match with your spouse or a cold, seething rage... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Sex-Determination-180.aspx Every living organism on earth is characterized in a unique and distinct manner and these unique characteristics are determined by genetic material. It is due to this individually unique genetic material that every human being looks different from the other. Gene talk A cell is the basic unit of all living organisms. You are made up of millions of cells. Cells consist of nucleus which contains chromosomes—the genetic material that determines your gender. Genes are ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Postpregnancy-weight-loss-207.aspx Now that your bundle of joy has finally arrived, it is not surprising that you find yourself at a loss to identify with this new individual staring at you from the mirror, with all that extra weight gained during pregnancy. And surely you are yearning to lose those extra pounds and get back to your prior self—trim with a healthy weight. But that is not going to be easy, with all the additional demands on you—your little one asking for your attention and your own. But the... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Positive-Thinking-172.aspx Positive thinking is a mental attitude that anticipates happiness, success and favorable outcomes in every situation or action you do. The thoughts get registered in your subconscious mind and you start taking action to create favorable change. A positive outlook can help you to cope better with stressful situations and can change your life for the better.Why think positively? Ever wondered why some people find learning an enjoyable and exciting experience? Why are some ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Meditation-173.aspx With the hectic pace of modern life, many people feel stressed, unhappy and frustrated.Meditation is a mind-body medicine and soothing alternative therapy for various mental and physical conditions. The main purpose of meditation is to make your mind calm and peaceful. It is very difficult to control our mind, but through regular meditation one can create clarity and strength that can enable you to control your mind. Meditation is not necessarily a religious practice, bu... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Confidence-Building-175.aspx Confidence is a mental attitude that is characterized by assertiveness and optimism about oneself. Our general belief about ourselves has a powerful impact on our self-confidence.People who are self confident are those who acknowledge their capacity and potential to do something. They have the guts to do it no matter what others may say. People who are self-confident take advantage of the opportunities that comes their way and become more successful than their counterpar... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Anxiety-168.aspx Anxiety is a natural response to a perceived or imagined threat. It is as natural as many of the other emotions that we go through in everyday situations. Anxiety acts like our body’s alarm system, warning us of possible dangers or difficulties. Imagine you are going for a job interview—you wake up early, dress up soon and leave your home earlier than usual so that you do not get held up in rush hour traffic. It is this concern or anxiety of not wanting to be late, of av... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Moods-And-Irritability-169.aspx Simply put, a mood disorder is a frequent or repeated disturbance of your normal mood. Difficult situations in life bring stress, frustration and disappointment. These are but normal reactions to the hardship that you may face in life. However, if these feelings last more than a few weeks or months wherein it spoils your quality of life, it could be a sign of a mood disorder. You may feel sad all the time. Or you may find it difficult to fall asleep or stay asleep. You m... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Somatization-Disorders-170.aspx Somatization disorder is a chronic, severe disorder characterized by a collection of various types of physical illnesses that you may experience for which there are no physically identifiable causes. The symptoms that you experience are more often purely psychological or part of your imagination and can last for a long time, sometimes for years. The disorder occurs more often in women than in men.Causes Although there is no clear evidence to pinpoint the cause of somatiz... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Rape-185.aspx Rape is an act of violence perpetrated against another person. The topic of rape is not a pleasant one, but it is a subject that women of all ages, races and nationalities should take serious enough to find out about.In the past, people felt safe and secure behind the locked doors of their own homes. Studies have shown that the female rapes that took place in 1994 happened inside the victim's own home. Women should always know their caller before they open the door. If t... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Depression-165.aspx Clinical depression is a state of extreme sadness or hopelessness that reaches a point where it affects your every day activities and quality of life. Depression can affect anyone, irrespective of age, gender or race. It has been found to affect women twice as much as it affects men. Depression can have serious physiological as well as psychological consequences. Types of depression Situational depression: Certain situations or an unpleasant experience can be so stressfu... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Eating-Disorders-166.aspx Eating disorder is a condition characterized by extreme reduction of food intake or extreme overeating. One of the common symptoms is constant worrying about your body shape and weight. If you are obsessed with your weight and go to any lengths to keep it off, you may be suffering from an eating disorder. Eating disorders can be very harmful to your health and can cause severe complications. Types of eating disorders Anorexia nervosa: Women with anorexia nervosa are obse... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Conquering-Phobias-167.aspx A phobia is a deep, abnormal or irrational fear, which can interfere with your normal day-to-day life. They are imagined fears and fall into the category of anxiety disorders. It can be triggered by an object, event or situation. The “fear” that you may have actually may cause little or no real danger at all. If you suffer from phobia, it can affect your ability to mingle with friends, colleagues and/or relatives. Phobia can affect anyone—children, adults and the elderly... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Child-Sexual-Abuse-162.aspx Contrary to popular belief, child sexual abuse is a widespread problem in many societies around the world. Although sexual abuse is quite difficult and embarrassing to talk about, families must find ways to teach their children to protect themselves from sexual abuse.Adults should take proactive steps to protect children from this significant risk. Both boys and girls are victims of child abuse, although females are more often the victims than males.What is child sexual ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Coping-With-Stress-164.aspx Stress is the emotional and physical strain caused as a result of our response to what happens around us. Stress can affect anyone—kids, teenagers, adults and the elderly. At one point or the other, everybody goes through stress—be it relationship demands, work, household chores, children’s school, education, financial situations, etc. It is an inborn instinct which helps you deal with everyday difficulties. But, if it goes on for too long, it can harm your physical as w... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Iron-Calculator-201.aspx http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Emotional-Awareness-205.aspx Emotional awareness can be referred to a state of mind where you are always alert and aware of your feelings, thoughts, your deeds and your conduct. Overall you are happy with yourself, your family, your standing in society, your job and you also enjoy a great relationship with friends and colleagues. But then, life is not always the same. Things change and on occasions certain incidents can cause you a great deal of anxiety, sorrow and stress. So what are these factors ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Happy-Children-161.aspx A baby smiles for the first time about the time it is a month old. Parents go wild with joy as this early milestone is achieved and will try anything and everything to make the baby smile again and again. This is the easy part. The challenge lies in making your children smile through the growing years and into adulthood. What makes children happy? Children bestow their smiles freely from the time they are infants. As they grow older, every new experience, achievement, an... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Stress-and-Meditation-171.aspx Being today’s woman, you may find yourself walking on a tightrope balancing your personal and professional life. As you try to juggle more roles and are constantly rushing, you become busier and more stressed. Stress can affect your health in many ways. Meditation is a wonderful way to counteract the effects of stress and maintain a healthier lifestyle. The benefits of meditation are manifold. This section deals with helping you school your thought and emotions ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Power-Of-Silence-176.aspx “In silence, we can hear our soul speak”. So goes the saying. Getting in touch with our inner self is truly the way to attain joy and contentment.But where is this ever eluding silence? Life in this concrete jungle where we live makes one wonder whether such a thing as silence exists. We live our lives in the midst of noise. There is noise everywhere—at home, on the streets, at the work place, at the theatre, shopping mall. The list goes on and on. Today, it is becoming ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Destructive-Emotions-177.aspx What are they and what do they do? Destructive emotions are those emotions which compel us to harm ourselves or others, if we let ourselves be controlled by them. There is a wide gamut of these emotions and we are all very familiar with the major ones that tend to ruin our lives, sometimes. Specific destructive emotionsThese include feelings of anger, rage, depression, fear, anxiety, timidity, greed, hatred, envy, jealousy, arrogance, laziness, etc.Even happiness that is... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Post-Pregnancy-Immunization-157.aspx Diseases like cholera, small pox, mumps, rubella and measles may sound unfamiliar to you. In the past, mostly children and tens of thousands of people died due to the outbreak of these diseases. Thanks to immunization, today the fear of these diseases is a thing of the past. Your body has natural defense mechanisms to fight germs (microorganisms like bacteria and viruses). Generally, when germs enter into your body, your body has the ability to fight it off with the help... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Adoption-158.aspx What is adoption?Adoption is a legal process by which a couple takes the responsibility to raise a child who is not biologically related to them as their own. Adoption creates a permanent legal relationship between the adoptive parents and the child. When you adopt a child, the legal rights of the real parents of the child get transferred to you. Additionally, the adopted child has the same rights as any biological child of your own.In short, the child becomes a part of ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Father-Parenting-Role-159.aspx “Congratulations! You are going to be a father!” This news may bring mixed emotions in you. Of course, the first emotion that you will feel when you hear the good news will be that of extreme joy and excitement. Together with this, you may also start thinking about the financial and emotional commitments that are required to raise your child. Another thing that can give you cause for concern is the kind of relationship—emotional and sexual—that you will share with your p... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Bonding-With-Children-160.aspx Bonding with your child or children is of vital importance for their overall health—physical, emotional and psychological. Being a parent, understanding the importance of bonding and the methods in which you can bond with your children will help you and your child forge a great relationship. So what is this bonding all about? Bonding is all about unconditional love for your child. When you bond with your child, you have to develop a mutual emotional connection between th... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Workplace-Relations-152.aspx The relationships between our personal or family life and our working life are two-way and can have an impact on each other. Relationships we have in the workplace are a major part of our work—we spend 8–10 h of our waking hours in the office. When there is a balance in our relationships at home and work, we feelinvigorated and alive. Work-related difficulties and stresses canaffect our personal and family well-being just as difficulties at homecan affect our performance... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Managing-work-relations-153.aspx Be reasonableWithout a specific policy, you cannot ask employees not to date each other. And even if you could, the prohibition would be difficult to enforce. Do not put yourself in the position of making unreasonable demands on your employees—or yourself.Be fairIt is critical that you treat all employees exactly the same when dealing with issues of workplace relationships. Even marital status should make no difference in the way your address a problem. Consistency is a ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Newborn-Care-155.aspx Nine months of waiting to hold your little bundle of joy in your arms has finally come to a joyous end. You have become a mother and like all first time mothers you are feeling on top of the world with excitement. You must be feeling a lot of stress and tiredness too from months of pregnancy followed by labor and delivery. And with the usual formalities at the hospital discharge desk done, you are ready to take your lovely baby home. But once you are home, you may sudden... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Weaning-156.aspx Weaning is the process by which your baby moves or shifts from having breast milk to consuming semi-solid or solid foods. There is a gradual reduction in the intake of breast milk and/or baby formula and your baby more often starts taking more solid food. Weaning is one of the many milestones in your baby’s process of development. It is very important for your baby’s health and development.Why weaning?After 6 months, breast milk does not provide all the nutrients that yo... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Mindfulness-174.aspx Mindfulness is a state where one is aware of one’s actions, thoughts, and motivations. It has also been described as an attentive state and being careful about one’s actions. Several oriental religions, including Buddhism and Hinduism, have emphasized mindfulness as being essential to one’s liberation or oneness with God. Basically, mindfulness is a method wherein one pulls one’s thoughts from the Past and the Future into the Present. Enforcing mindfulness The teachings ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Fulfilling-Relationships-147.aspx There is a popular saying, “Do unto others as you would want them to do unto you”. This seemingly simple quote has a more intense meaning—so intense that if all of mankind follows this rule strictly it can bring immense happiness to humanity.Talking then, about attaining a healthy and fulfilling relationship there is no better guidance than simply following these words of wisdom. It is all about give and take. Love—the primeval need Everyone needs love. It stands on the ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Domestic-Violence-149.aspx Domestic violence or domestic abuse typically occurs between people who are in an intimate relationship. Most often the abusers are husbands, ex-husbands, boyfriends or intimate partners. Domestic violence includes physical, emotional and sexual abuse. Both men and women can be victims of domestic abuse, but females are most often the victims. Domestic violence is one of the most common forms of violence and happens in most societies all over the world. It happens to wom... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Coping-With-Conflicts-150.aspx Difference of opinion, physical clash, disagreements and arguments, quarrel—one or more of this can cause conflict. Conflict also breeds hatred amongst one another. While the factors mentioned above causes conflict, what is the reason behind people getting into arguments, clashes and fisticuffs? Trying to analyze and knowing the reasons why, will give us a clearer idea about the entire saga of conflicts and provide us ways and means to cope with it.Possible reasons for d... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Marriage-146.aspx You had been in high spirits a couple of years ago when you realized that you had met your perfect match. After an exciting wedding and an exhilarating honeymoon at the choicest scenic destinations you had returned home to begin your journey of married life. All had been fine for the first couple of years, but of late you have begun noticing that your husband is just not his earlier self anymore. He comes home late from work, often after having a drink or two, goesthroug... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Swimming-204.aspx Swimming has long been regarded as a useful activity and has been variously applied—most prominently for recreational, occupational, and sport purposes. Types of swimming These include: Recreational swimming. Occupational swimming. Competitive swimming.Recreational swimming: Recreational swimming has been considered a good way to relax while also enjoying a full-body workout. There are several swimming styles that are considered suitable for recreational swimming. These ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Metabolic-Disorders-202.aspx Metabolic syndrome or syndrome X is a health condition that is characterized by a group of health conditions that occur simultaneously. These health conditions—high blood pressure, high blood sugar levels, excess body fat around the waist and unhealthy cholesterol levels—increase your risk of heart disease, stroke and diabetes.Symptoms The indicators of metabolic syndrome include: Obesity, particularly excess fat around your waist.Persistent high blood pressure.High leve... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Calcium-Calculator-199.aspx http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Walking-142.aspx Walking is the most natural form of exercise known to man. Almost anyone with a pair of healthy legs can do it. It need not be taught; neither does it need practice. It is safe, simple, can be done anytime at any sort of weather or clothing and above all it comes free. All you need to do is just get up and walk your way to health.The advantages of walking Regular walking brings with it plenty of health benefits. Here are some of them: Healthy heart: Regular walking lower... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Exercise-To-Keep-Fit-141.aspx Physical exercise helps you develop and maintain physical fitness,alertness and overall health. It strengthens your muscles, skeletalframe and cardiovascular system and helps you maintain a healthyweight.       Frequent and regular physical exercise boostsyour immune system and helps prevent various diseases such as heartdisease, diabetes, improves mental health and prevents depression.  Types of exercisesAerobic exercise:  Aerobic exercises, also called cardiovascular e... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Know-Your-Nail-139.aspx As a woman you may place a great deal of importance on how your nails look and spend a substantial amount of time and money on beautifying them. Beautiful finger nails are an expression of your personality that can help create a positive impression about you. But did you know that your nails are also indicators of your general health and well-being? Many conditions and nutritional deficiencies manifest themselves on the nails and may forewarn you about internal health pr... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Dandruff-134.aspx Dandruff is a common scalp problem in which you experience scalp itch and excessive flaking of the scalp skin. Although it is not a serious problem, it can remain for a long time and can make you feel socially uncomfortable and embarrassed.Fortunately the problem is not transmitted from person to person and can be controlled. If you are suffering from a mild bout of dandruff shampooing everyday with a soft shampoo can provide relief. In more severe cases, medicated shamp... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Hair-Loss-135.aspx       A single strand of your hair grows half an inch a month and survives for an average of 4½ years.. Once the hair falls off a new hair replaces it within six months. Although it is quite normal to lose 100 strands of hair each day, some people may experience excessive hair loss.               Hair loss of this type can affect men, women and children and can be a warning sign of certain disorders in the body. For some individuals, hair loss can be quite stressful, esp... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Excessive-Hair-Growth-136.aspx Excessive body hair especially on face, arms and legs is unpleasant and emotionally distressing for a woman and makes her unattractive. At times this condition may affect quality of life and may also lead to social complication. This condition is medically known as hirsutism, often seen in women of age group between 18 and 45 years. It is very normal to have fine baby hair on upper lip, chin and sometimes little dark hair around the nipples and thighs. However, women wit... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Coloring-Your-Hair-137.aspx Hair coloring is very popular in recent times amongst young girls. Hair color works by chemical reactions between the molecules in the hair and the dye, as well as peroxide and ammonia. The color of your hair depends on the portions of the hair proteins eumelanin and phaeomelanin. The protein eumelanin gives brown or black color and phaeomelanin gives golden or red color to the hair. In the absence of these proteins, the hair appears gray. What are the basic types of hai... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Scalp-Care-132.aspx The secret behind good hair is good scalp. One of the important functions of the scalp is to grow strong shiny hair. As with any other part of your body, your scalp is also vulnerable to quite a few disease conditions. Your scalp skin renews itself every 28 days allowing healthy ones to emerge. Factors like cold climatic conditions, low humidity, and certain hair products can interfere with the renewing process causing cells to pile up leading to the formation of flakes.... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Lice-133.aspx Head lice are tiny, wingless parasites that inhabit your hair and scalp feeding on blood from your scalp. Their bite can cause continuous itching, skin irritation and scalp infections. It can cause a great deal of social embarrassment too. Head lice are a treatable problem and adequate preventive measures can help you avoid the problem from occurring repeatedly. Symptoms Common symptoms of head lice infestation include: Intense itching and scratching. Small red bumps or ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Healthy-Eating-Habits-264.aspx Though children outgrow many of their childhood habits, a few things like eatinghabits and attitudes toward food which they learn from their parents they will carrywith them into adulthood. Children develop tastes for certain foods at an earlyage. They learn to like what their parents give them.Children develop a natural preference for what they eat most often and enjoy. The challenge is to make healthy choices appealing. Hence, it is the responsibility of the parents to... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Know-Your-Hair-131.aspx Lovely, lustrous and healthy hair gives expression to your personality and it is a mirror of your health. Good looking hair indicates health, strength, vitality and your emotional status. Your hair not only makes you look attractive and beautiful, but also protects you and helps maintain body temperature. Your hair cushions your body against injury, and the hair in your nose, ears and around your eyes protects you from dust and other foreign particles. Structure of HairH... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Healthy-Diet-154.aspx Eat healthy and you will live a healthy life and healthy eating habits is a way to long and active life. Diet and nutrition is about feeling good when you eat and keeping yourself healthy and not strict dieting, trying to stay thin or depriving yourself of the foods you love. Healthy diet begins with eat smartly. Concepts and ideas of what is a healthy diet vary. It is not just what you eat, but how you eat. It is essential to choose the types of foods that impr... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Sun-Damage-128.aspx Sunlight is essential for your skin, general health and well being. But too much of it can be harmful to your skin. Overexposure to the sun can damage your skin causing wrinkles, sunburn, suntan, rashes, skin cancer and other skin problems. This condition is known as photodamage or sun damage. Types of sun damage Most of the sun damage occurs on parts of your body that are repeatedly exposed to the sun such as your head, neck, face, hands, forearm and the lower regions o... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Hand-And-Foot-Care-127.aspx Hands Our hands have undergone such development in the evolutionary process as to become the main mediators and facilitators of our actions, sometimes, even to the point of becoming expressive in our conversations. Our hands are also those parts of our body that are early to show signs of disuse or neglect. Given how obvious and prominent they are in our daily interactions, it would be futile to try hiding them or covering them up to hide damages of age, such as wrinkles... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Aerobics-143.aspx Aerobics is a form of aerobic exercise. Aerobic exercise involves activity of moderate intensity paced out over a relatively longer duration. The mechanism Aerobic exercise derives its benefits from the increased, generally uniform, consumption of oxygen by muscles and other tissues facilitating the expenditure of calories in a sustained and controlled manner. It combines stretching and strength training exercises with the aim of improving all aspects of fitness includin... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Body-Odor-126.aspx Your sweat or perspiration is composed mainly of water and salt (sodium chloride) and contains trace amounts of other electrolytes—substances that help regulate the balance of fluids in your body. Sweating is natural and in fact good for your body. But sweating excessively can be embarrassing and annoying. Besides, the body odor that arises as a result of sweating is even more irritating. Perspiration as such is virtually odorless. But when it comes in contact with the b... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pigmentation-123.aspx Pigments are coloring substances that are present in both plants and animals. In humans, pigments determine the complexion, shading of the skin, the varying hues of an individual’s skin, eyes, hair, etc. Disorders of pigmentation arise form too much or too little pigment or from inappropriate distribution of pigment. The Indian psyche is still enamored of fair complexions and much emphasis is placed on maintaining or obtaining a clear and fair complexion. Disorders of pi... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Warts-124.aspx Warts are extra skin growths on your body that occur due to an infection caused by a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV). Warts can grow anywhere on your body but it can be mostly seen on your hands, face, feet, genitals and rectal area. Fortunately, warts are not cancerous. They appear as small bumpy mounds, look lighter or darker than your skin color and in rare cases may be black in color. Warts are usually harmless and often disappear on their own. How do you get... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Wrinkles-125.aspx Many a times, a person’s age can be guessed by just looking at his or her face, specifically the skin. The lines and creases that appear on your skin as you grow old are known as wrinkles. Wrinkles may become deep crevices or furrows and noticeable around your eyes, mouth and neck. Wrinkles can be divided into two categories: fine, surface lines and deep furrows. It is quite natural for wrinkles to appear as a person grows old. Although, wrinkles are often said to be a s... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Hair-Health-130.aspx Having lustrous and healthy hair is the dream of every woman. In today's world, hair increasingly plays a central role in how we present ourselves to the outside world. A healthy head of full and shining hair with no flakes or other visible damage is easy to spot. Whatever healthy hair means to you, one universal fact is that a girl’s hair is her crowning glory. But what about when your crowning glory isn't quite so glorious? Your hair is one of the biggest firs... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Food-Labels-116.aspx Food labels are designed to help us make healthy food choices; they are there to give us information so that we can choose between foods.How to make sense of a food label? According to the Nutrition Labeling and Education Act, all packaged food products must contain the following information: Common name of the product. Name and address of the product's manufacturer. Net contents in terms of weight, measure or count. Ingredient list and Nutrition Facts.Date of manufactur... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Know-Your-Skin-119.aspx True beauty is a reflection of true health, and true health begins deep inside each and every cell in your body. Looking good can make you feel good and your looks can often depict your personality and attitude. Nourishing and nurturing yourself properly can bring immense and immeasurable rewards of confidence, vitality, energy, optimism and good health. Your skin is an indicator of your general health. Acne, wrinkles, dry or oily skin and inflammation are all signs of p... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Nutrition-And-Skin-120.aspx A well-balanced diet is extremely essential to attain healthy skin. Vitamins like vitamins A, C, and E, and minerals such as selenium and zinc play an important role in maintaining the quality of your skin. Although dietary nutrients may not necessarily reverse skin damage that is already done, it may help in nourishing skin in order to prevent more damage. Here are some of the roles that nutrients play to help you attain and maintain healthy skin. Eating planConsume lea... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Acne-121.aspx Acne is one of the most common skin disorders which largely affect adolescents. Acne causes clogged pores leading to pimple outbreaks, cysts, infected abscesses and sometimes even scarring. During puberty, the male sex hormones called and rogens, increase in both boys and girls, causing the sebaceous glands to become more active resulting in an increased production of oil. Acne can also cause psychological stress and for many individuals it can be socially disabling.How ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Food-Borne-Illness-113.aspx Foodborne illnesses are defined as diseases, usually either infectious or toxic in nature, caused by agents that enter the body through the ingestion of food. Every person is at risk of foodborne illness. Foodborne illness is commonly called food poisoning, even though the physiological effects of foodborne illness are not always caused by poisons.Food poisoning is an acute syndrome with nausea, abdominal cramping, vomiting and/or diarrhea which appear suddenly and withi... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Sensitive-Skin-Care-266.aspx What is sensitive skin?Sensitive skin can be defined as a skin that is highly reactive to certain products or environment conditions. It is also prone to redness and allergy. Sensitive skin often accompanies dry skin, with a tendency to be rosier than usual. However, the characteristics of a sensitive skin may appear with all skin types. Easily irritated by products and environment conditions, your skin may even react badly when in contact with the clothing you are weari... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Quick-Hair-Care-Fixes-269.aspx There are days when you feel that your hair is not looking right or something isoff with your hairstyle. These are the bad hair days that everyone gets sometimes.Whether an attempted styling has gone wrong, or hair products that do not work orsimply you have woken up with bad hair, bad hair days can be caused by a numberof reasons.You may find yourself trying to fix your hair to get back your hair in shape. Bysimply spraying some hair spray and giving it a good brush, yo... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Birth-Control-Choices-97.aspx Birth control or contraception involves methods that couples can use to prevent pregnancy. Successful and healthy birth control can be achieved by a contraceptive method used by either of the partner.Women and contraceptionChoosing a birth control method is one of the most personal health care decisions you can make. Your choice of contraception method will primarily depend on your needs. Some women only want to prevent pregnancy while others may also choose contraceptio... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Postpartum-Depression-94.aspx The birth of your baby would certainly have been a wonderful moment for you. The long wait during pregnancy and the labor stress that you went through has finally paid off and you have your bundle of joy cuddled in your arms. But after your baby is born and the initial celebrations fade, you may begin to feel sad and anxious suddenly. In a mild form this feeling on post childbirth is quite normal and is known as postpartum blues or baby blues and almost always go away af... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Stretch-Marks-95.aspx What are stretch marks? Stretch marks are the fine lines on your skin as a result of rapid stretching of the skin such as during pregnancy, extreme weight gain or weight loss. They are often seen in the abdominal area, thighs, hips, breasts, upper arms or lower back. Both men and women can be affected by stretch marks, although the problem is more widespread among women.Stretch marks can occur anywhere on the body where the skin hasbeenstretched over a period of time. Th... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Birth-Control-96.aspx In this fast changing world, birth control has been considered as one of the important tools to enjoy your family life. Sometimes after pregnancy too, you will be thinking of which contraception will work best for you after your baby is born. There are many different types of birth control methods available today. The type of birth control you choose depends on your needs and that is best for you. Only you can decide what is best for you. And we are here to help... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Antioxidants-107.aspx Antioxidants are substances which protect cells of your body from the harmful effects of free radicals. Free radicals are highly unstable compounds, which are formed as a product of your natural metabolism as well as due to environmental factors such as pollution, pesticides and radiation. Cigarette smoking also releases harmful free radicals in your body. Free radicals can easily react with the cells of your body, causing chain reactions and damage your cells leading to... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Food-Claims-115.aspx Food claims are statements describing about the product’s or its ingredients’ safety, quality and health protective and promotional effects. There are atleast two types of food claims; one related to limits of exclusion and the other on the positive effects on health.Free: This term means that a product contains no amount of, or only trivial or ‘physiologically inconsequential’ amounts of, one or more of these components: fat, saturated fat, cholesterol, sodium, sugars a... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Cosmetics-Care-129.aspx The use of cosmetics is common both among men and women to enhance looks and to smell good. It is also a vital part of feeling good. Deodorants, shampoo, eye shadow, lip sticks, etc. all fall under the category of cosmetics. Depending upon the product, cosmetics are made from many ingredients. Indiscriminate usage of cosmetics may be unsafe for some people, resulting in various skin disorders.   Let us take a look at some of the most common side effects of cosmeticsand ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/New-Mother-Care-92.aspx “Congratulations on becoming a new mother!” This is one compliment that you will hear time and again after you give birth to your little bundle of joy. Then it is all about completing the necessary formalities to get discharged from hospital and head home.Once you are home, you soon discover that apart from bringing you immense joy and excitement, your newborn has also brought you the everyday challenges of taking care of yourself as a new mother. In your endeavor to pro... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Healthy-Breast-Feeding-93.aspx As a mother, you would always want to give your baby the very best in life. And if you wanted to start your baby on the path to good health, breast milk is the best. Benefits for the baby Breast milk gives all the nutrients the baby needs. Breastfeeding strengthens the immune system and protects the baby from infections and allergies.Breast milk is always safe, fresh, perfectly clean, just the right temperature, instantly available and is the most nutritious feeding syst... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Labor-89.aspx After becoming pregnant, labor is the next event that a woman eagerly awaits. There is also an apprehension among many women that they may fail to notice the initial signs or symptoms of labor and in the process may not be adequately ready for childbirth to occur. However, there is no reason to fear, as your body will display early signs that labor is fast approaching. What causes labor symptoms?When your baby is ready to be born, certain hormonal changes in the fetus ca... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/C-Section-90.aspx The cesarean procedure (C-section) is a procedure where a cut is made in a woman’s abdomen and uterus to deliver her baby. This procedure has been reported to have been performed for several centuries, but has become safer from the mid-twentieth century onward with the developments in medical care and technology. Currently, this procedure is resorted to where there is reason to believe that it is necessary for the well-being of the mother and the child or in cases where ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Diabetes-In-Pregnancy-88.aspx Gestational diabetes is a form of diabetes that occurs only during pregnancy. If you have never had diabetes before but diagnosed with high blood sugar levels during pregnancy, you have gestational diabetes.Gestational diabetes is a temporary phase and goes away in a few weeks after you deliver your baby. With good care your blood sugar levels will return to normal after childbirth.SymptomsThe symptoms of gestational diabetes are not too noticeable although in some women... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Stress-In-Pregnancy-86.aspx Pregnancy is a phase in woman’s life with emotional physical, and physiological changes. Modern woman is exposed to outside work and has to balance between her home, work and her unborn baby. All this may result in stress for her and people around her. Too much stress when not coped with can be detrimental to her and her baby. When this continues for a long time, it can lead to various health complications. Types of pregnancy stressThere are different kinds of stress tha... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Water-and-Skin-Care-265.aspx It is natural for our skin to dry as we get older. The production of sebum i.e.,fatty lubricant matter secreted by sebaceous glands of the skin decreases, and ourcells are more prone to losing moisture. The result is dry, lined skin. Doctorstell us that drinking enough water is the key to keeping all of our cells hydrated,including those of our skin. Is drinking lots of water really beneficial to theskin? Can it slow the signs of aging, reduce wrinkles or ease problem bl... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Body-Massage-242.aspx Massage has been used as a therapeutic and relaxation method for several centuries.Certain cultures and peoples have developed their own unique methods of body massage.Basically, massage involves manual kneading and manipulation of the soft tissuesin the body to enhance circulation and to modify certain physiological processeswith the intention of relieving pain, discomfort, stress and fatigue while alsopromoting health. It is the holistic application of physical touch a... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Weight-Gain-83.aspx Pregnancy is divided into three trimesters, with each trimester lasting 3 months, or approximately 13 weeks (a normal pregnancy lasts 40 weeks). Most women notice a slight weight gain in the beginning of pregnancy. Gain in weight is a normal and healthy part of pregnancy.Ideal weight gain Weight gain during pregnancy varies from woman-to-woman and depends on body type and severity of nausea and vomiting. A slow and steady rate of weight gain is considered ideal. The majo... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Sex-During-Pregnancy-84.aspx Can I have sex during pregnancy? This is a question that is in the mind of many pregnant women. Having sex to get pregnant is one thing and sex after child birth is another. But having sex during pregnancy? It is common for women to wonder whether sex is safe when they are pregnant. Your partner may also sometimes worry if sexual intercourse may cause discomfort or pain for you. Concerns like this are common and completely normal, but most of them are unproven. Unless yo... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Travel-During-Pregnancy-85.aspx Now that you are pregnant, you will find yourself facing quite a few restrictions to protect you and your baby. One of the queries that will come to your mind will be, “Can I travel?”As long as there are no known complications or concerns with your pregnancy, it is generally safe to travel most of the time during the early phase of your pregnancy. There is no reason why you should cancel your travel arrangements, unless your doctor advises you not to travel. Nevertheless... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Exercise-In-Pregnancy-82.aspx Exercise during pregnancy is something many women think about but hardly do. Excuses to avoid exercise vary—no time, it is boring, lack of energy, it may cause harm to the baby etc., are some of the common ones. But the fact remains that exercising during pregnancy has a positive impact on both the baby and the mother. Here are some reasons why you should get movingExercise for energyPregnancy can deplete energy. Exercises such as walking strengthen and tone the muscles... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Relationships-117.aspx We are essentially social beings and our lives derive definition from the interlinking strands that bind us to others as we journey through life. These strands that link each of us take shape in the form of relationships. From an early age, you learn and are taught to form and value relationships; having realized even during periods of infancy and childhood dependence that life without thriving relationships is colorless and arid. You learn to define the types o... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Food-Adulteration-114.aspx  Are you getting attracted by the delectable and the luscious color of the sweets displayed at the sweet shop? or the taste of that spicy deep yellow colored pakoda? And have you ever wondered why whenever you make it at home, you never get that same yellow color? Food is the basic necessity of life. One works hard and earns to satisfy our hunger and relax (enjoy) later. But at the end of the day, many of us are not sure of what we eat. We may be eating a dangerous... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Food-Safety-At-Home-112.aspx Potential food safety hazards at home can be divided into three categories: Biological Chemical Physical Certain processes or handling practices in the home have been identified as being essential or critical in preventing food borne illness. These practices can help to prevent or control food borne illness. They are purchasing, storing, pre-preparation, cooking, serving and handling leftovers. Failure to take appropriate action at these critical points could result in f... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Greens-In-Your-Diet-109.aspx ‘Eat your vegetables, especially green leafy vegetables’ has been sound advice for generations. These green leafy vegetables (GLVs) deliver a bonanza of vitamins, minerals and phytonutrients that are essential for the human body for its healthy maintenance. Yet, only a few consume the minimum recommendation of GLVs. Dark GLVs are rich sources of minerals (iron, calcium, potassium, and magnesium) and vitamins (vitamins K, C, E and many of the B vitamins). They also provid... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Nutrients-In-Your-Diet-103.aspx One must eat to sustain life. What you eat determines the health of your body. Food furnishes your body with nutrients, which are essential for life. We need food to provide:Energy to accomplish daily activity. The necessary materials for the building or maintenance of body tissue and organs and to fight against diseases.Substances needed to regulate body functioning and processes. Good nutrition—an adequate, well-balanced diet combined with regular physical activity—is ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Nutrients-You-Need-104.aspx Different nutrients are needed in the right amount to attain a good nutritional status. The amount of each nutrient needed in a day is known as the nutritional requirement.What is RDA?Recommended Dietary Allowance (RDA) refers to the amount of nutrients that need to be consumed daily to ensure the nutritional requirement of the body.  The recommended level depends upon how much of the nutrients are absorbed from a given diet and utilized by the body. Everyone needs good ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Planning-For-Pregnancy-75.aspx Planning a pregnancy needs a lot of preparation. If you are trying to have a baby or are just thinking about it, taking care of your health before you become pregnant - also called preconception care- can help you prepare for a safe pregnancy and healthy baby.Pre-pregnancy checkup The first step towards this is to visit your doctor. He or she will give you the right advice after evaluating your health. Based on the evaluation, your doctor will suggest methods of taking g... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Want-A-Smart-Baby-76.aspx Pregnancy is an especially demanding period and there is a greater need for all nutrients during pregnancy. Many nutrients have a positive role in safeguarding the health of the mother and ensuring proper growth of the baby. One amongst them is docosahexaenoic acid (DHA). What is DHA?The main components of all fats are fatty acids which might be saturated, monounsaturated or polyunsaturated. Essential fatty acids (EFAs) are fats that are essential to the diet because the... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-Health-78.aspx Now that you are pregnant, taking care of yourself has never been more important. You will be probably getting advice from everyone—your doctor, family members, friends, co-workers and even complete strangers—about what you should and should not be doing. But staying healthy during pregnancy depends on you, so it is crucial to arm yourself with information about the many ways to keep you and your baby as healthy as possible.Regular check-upsThe key to protecting the heal... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Eating--For-Two-80.aspx Good nutrition is an essential part of daily life. It becomes even more essential during pregnancy because you and your baby’s health greatly depend on good nutrition. Therefore, prenatal nutrition is the key for maintaining a healthy pregnancy. Remember that the food you eat when you are pregnant is directly related to the health of growing baby because all the nutrients that need for the baby’s growth comes from the food or the supplements you take. In recent years the... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Sexual-Dysfunction-70.aspx Sexual problems affect both men and women. If you do not want to have sex or it never feels good, you might have a sexual problem. The condition is medically called “female sexual dysfunction”. You may feel diminished sexual desire or even pain while having sex. If you feel your sexual dysfunction is upsetting your relationship with your partner or you feel frequently bothered about it, its time for you to inform your doctor. Types of female sexual dysfunctionWomen with ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/STD-71.aspx Sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) are the infections that you might get when you have sex with a person who is already infected. These infections can pass on to you through vaginal and/or anal intercourse, oral sex and even skin contact. STDs can affect both men and women but the complications in women are more severe than in men. How are STDs caused? Sexually transmitted diseases can be caused by bacteria, parasites or viruses (see Box). The risk of getting an STD is... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Fertility-and-Pregnancy-74.aspx Well, if it is that time of your life when you are seriously pondering over having a baby, welcome to a whole new experience.In order to improve your chances of getting pregnant soon, it is important for you to know the ideal time to have sexual intercourse. The set of practices that helps you know the days of the month that you are most likely to get pregnant is known as fertility awareness method (FAM). Fertility awareness is useful not only in helping you conceive, bu... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Fitness-144.aspx As people are becoming more and more health conscious, keeping one in shape and fit is given utmost importance. Since the body you have now is the only body you will ever have, you owe it to yourselves to make yourselves fit and toned. A fitness regimen can make all the difference in how your body looks and feels. You are never too young or too old for making yourselves fit and if you are looking for information on different exercises to make yourself fit, the impo... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Endometriosis-65.aspx Endometriosis is a painful disorder of the female reproductive system. It is a condition in which bits of the tissue similar to the lining of the uterus (endometrium) grow in other parts of the body.When you menstruate, the endometrial lining, also called endometrial tissue is discharged out of your body along with the menstrual flow. If you have endometriosis, the tissue from the lining of the uterus also gets lodged outside your uterus, in other parts such as the fallo... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Polycystic-Ovaries-66.aspx  Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), also known as  Polycystic Ovary Disease is a disorder that occurs due to imbalances or abnormalities in the hormones. Hormonal abnormalities can make the ovaries produce more eggs. These eggs turn into cysts and the ovaries become large and studded with numerous cysts (polycystic). It may begin in the teenage years and mostly affects women of childbearing age.Symptoms of PCOS/PCODThesymptoms of PCOS are very pronounced in some women, wh... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Uterine-Fibroids-67.aspx Uterine fibroids are the benign tumors that develop from the muscles of the uterine wall. Fibroids are a common problem among many women, but you may hardly realize it since they often produce no symptoms. Fibroids are not a major health hazard. They often need no treatment and the presence of fibroids does not pose a risk of cancer. If your symptoms are worrisome, consult your gynecologist. Treatment may be with medicines or surgery or a combination of both. Symptoms So... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Vaginal-Discharges-68.aspx Vaginal discharge is your body’s way of keeping the vagina clean and healthy. It is a normal, healthy phenomenon that occurs when glands in your vagina and cervix release small amounts of fluids that flow out of your vagina everyday. This clear, milky fluid that is discharged is not foul smelling and contains old cells that may have stuck on to your vaginal lining. During breastfeeding and sexual stimulation, vaginal discharge is thicker. The thickness and color of the d... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Periods-63.aspx  Periods, medically known as menstruation, is the bodily process that marks the beginning of womanhood. It also stays with her for a greater part of her life.Understanding what happens during periods will help you deal with it better and stay on course. Female reproductive systemWhy women have periods?The female reproductive system consists of two ovaries placed on either side of the uterus along with the fallopian tubes. Each of the two ovaries stores thousands of folli... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/PID-64.aspx Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) is the infection of the female reproductive organs especially the fallopian tubes, uterus and ovaries. It is a common complication that occurs as a result of sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) like chlamydia and gonorrhea.What causes PID?Pelvic inflammatory disease develops when microorganisms, like bacteria infect your internal female reproductive organs. Normally your cervix (the lower part of the uterus extending into the vagina) ac... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Food-Safety-111.aspx Food is essential for nourishment and sustenance of life. But many times, the food that you eat to stay healthy can make you sick. It might be due to the presence of microorganisms, due to improper food handling right from the farm to the table, etc. Food safety is a scientific discipline describing the handling, preparation, and storage of food in ways that prevent food borne illness. This includes a number of routines that should be followed to avoid potentially severe... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Skin-Health-118.aspx Most of us do not realize how important the skin is to our health. Our skin is just not a cover to our body. In fact, it is a cloak that shields our internal organs from the elements like bacteria, chemicals and the sun's powerful rays and regulates our body’s heat and signals pain to protect us against injury. Skin care is one of the most overlooked aspects of health and well-being. Healthy skin is the ticket to look young. Healthy skin is where beauty begins ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Reproductive-Organs-61.aspx The female body is one of nature’s most wonderful and complex creations. It is the origin of all human life. A woman’s journey in life is punctuated by many milestones; childhood, puberty, matrimony, pregnancy, childbirth, motherhood, each milestone special in its own way.Your reproductive health is just as important as other aspects of your health. A better understanding of reproductive system can help gain a clearer picture of just how sensitive reproductive organs are... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/PMS-62.aspx Premenstrual syndrome (PMS) is a set of physical and emotional changes or discomforts that affects many women a few days or weeks before menstruation. Premenstrual syndrome can affect menstruating women of all ages. These changes can sometimes interfere with the normal day-to-day activities of the affected women. The cause of PMS is uncertain. Premenstrual symptoms are a common part of the monthly cycle. Click here to check the animation on the normal  menstrual cycle.Wh... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Osteoporosis-58.aspx Osteoporosis occurs when there is a loss of mineral content from bone mainly in the form of calcium. Osteoporosis mainly affects women, although it also affects men, but in a smaller percentage. Osteoporosis shows no symptoms and is usually part of the normal aging process. However some women develop the disease early in life due to other co-existing disease factors. Women also run the risk of developing it post menopause. Since it displays no symptoms it is only when yo... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Exercise-For-Bones-59.aspx As you age, your body goes through many changes. Some of the major changes that occur in your body as you get older are:Bone mass and density decrease.Muscle size and strength decrease.Tendons and ligaments become less elastic.Cartilage degeneration and joint inflammation occur. The above bodily changes put you at an increased risk of fractures, various injuries, osteoporosis and arthritis. Exercising everyday can help prevent the above complications and provide a lot of... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pre-Pregnancy-73.aspx So you and your partner are thinking about adding a new member to your home. Congratulations. Making and giving life is powerful and wonderful. You may be wondering how the journey to parenthood is. From the very start, your baby-to-be alters your body and the way you live your daily life. As the decision to get pregnant has already been made, you may be emotionally committed to parenthood. But is your body prepared for the task ahead? All women thinking about ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Parenting-101.aspx It is said that our parents did the best job they knew how to do. But you know that you aspire to be a better parent—especially one who does not repeat the mistakes of one’s parents. Parenting is about nurturing your child and helping them find their own path in life. Subconsciously, children tend to imprint their parent’s personalities on their psyche and use that as templates to grow into. It then becomes necessary to be good models while not impinging on thei... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Mental-Health-163.aspx Mental health concerns the domain of your emotional and mental well-being. This has a strong bearing on your physical health as well and has been thus recognized—as seen in the WHO’s comprehensive definition of health which defines health as being a state of “...physical, mental, and social well-being.” The definition has also clarified that health does not merely mean the absence of disease—making the realization of health an active exercise, to include those r... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Folic-Acid-Calculator-200.aspx http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Bone-Health-Basics-57.aspx Bones are the living tissues that form the major portion of your skeleton. There are 206 bones in an adult’s body whereas infants have around 300 bones in their body. Bones help you in mobility and protect your internal organs.Bone structure Your bone is made up of proteins and other minerals like calcium, phosphate and magnesium. Collagen (a protein), which is a cementing substance, forms the structure and framework of your bones. The basic structural components of a bo... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Breast-Pain-53.aspx Breast pain or mastalgia is a common problem that occurs in younger, premenopausal women. Although it can also occur in postmenopausal women, the incidence is quite rare. Breast pain can occur in either breast or both and can last for days, weeks or sometimes even months. Having breast pain need not mean you have breast cancer. However, if you have constant pain that disrupts your normal daily activities such as work or sexual relationships, consult your doctor and... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Breast-Self-Examination-54.aspx A breast self-exam is important to help you notice any unusual lumps or change in appearance of your breasts. It is advised that women from age 20 begin breast self-exams.According to the American Cancer Society’s Breast Cancer Screening Guidelines, a breast self-exam is an important part of general breast health.Breast Self-ExamWhen is the right time to do a breast self-exam?The best time to perform a breast self-exam is about a week after your period ends, when your br... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Mammograms-55.aspx What is a mammogram?Mammogram is an X-ray of the breasts that is performed to detect early signs of breast cancer.Are regular mammograms necessary?Regular mammograms are necessary to detect breast cancer early. Signs of early breast cancer can sometimes be detected as early as three years before it can be actually seen. When detected early, the chances of treatment and cure are enhanced.The mammogram procedureA special X-ray machine is used for the purpose.One breast is ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Basics-of-Breast-Health-51.aspx Although the primary function of the breasts is production of milk for the new born baby, the female breasts also play an important role in female sexual behavior. Stimulation of the breasts enhances the sexual pleasure of a woman. Getting to know more about your breasts will help you maintain good breast health.The components of breast include: Milk producing and transporting tissuesStructural tissues  The surface of the breast Skin protects the deeper structures and th... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Breast-Conditions-52.aspx Breast disorders are of two types: Benign (noncancerous) and malignant (cancerous). Fortunately, regular self-examination of the breasts and mammograms will help in detecting these problems early. Breast pain (mastalgia) affects many women at some point in their lives. Younger, premenopausal women experience mastalgia more often than postmenopausal women. Some amount of breast pain is experienced before menstrual period and before menopause. Some women go through moderat... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Hypertension-48.aspx High blood pressure or hypertension is known as a ‘silent killer’, as it displays no symptoms. It is a disease that can affect the vital parts of your body such as the brain, heart, kidneys, etc. leading to stroke, heart disease and kidney failure.     Types of hypertension Primary or essential hypertension: Develops gradually over many years and has no identifiable cause. Secondary hypertension: This type of hypertension has an underlying cause such as kidney abnormalit... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Cholesterol-Facts-49.aspx What is cholesterol? Cholesterol is a waxy substance that forms naturally in all parts of your body. Your body requires some levels of cholesterol to function normally. Cholesterol is also involved in the making of cell tissues, production of certain hormones, vitamin D, and substances that help in the proper digestion of food. Your liver produces all the cholesterol for your bodily needs. Cholesterol in food is mainly derived from animal foods and plants foods do not ha... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pregnancy-72.aspx Pregnancy is a period of expectant waiting and one that all of us aspire to experience at least once in our lifetime. As we set foot on the path that transmutes one from a woman into a mother, several responsibilities and concerns become ours alone. Among these is our duty to the life that is yet to be and how we can give of ourselves, in body and spirit, to form and nurture the new life that we seek to bring into existence. Giving life is powerful. It is vital,... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/High-Blood-Pressure-87.aspx Sometimes blood pressure can be raised during pregnancy. It usually begins during the last 3 months of pregnancy (third trimester). High blood pressure during pregnancy may result in high levels of protein in the urine. This condition is known as preeclampsia or pregnancy induced hypertension (PIH). The exact cause of PIH is not clear.Symptoms of PIHSymptoms of PIH can be mild or severe. If your feet swell up and the water retention (edema) persists even after 8–10 h of ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Heart-Disease-47.aspx Heart diseases or cardiovascular diseases refer to diseases of the heart and blood vessels and include diseases such as coronary heart disease, heart attack, high blood pressure, stroke, chest pain (angina) and rheumatic heart disease.If you are a woman, you are as much at risk of heart disease and heart attacks as men are. Heart disease is one of the most common causes of death among elderly women. Though, when compared to men, women develop heart disease much later in ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Say-No-To-Obesity-45.aspx Obesity is a condition characterized by high levels of body fat. You may probably be able to manage a certain amount of excessive fat for sometime, but if your fat levels keep increasing, it is a serious risk factor for different diseases such as high blood pressure, diabetes and a variety of other serious illnesses. Fortunately, physical exercises combined with a balanced nutritious diet and lifestyle modifications can give you positive results in your battle against t... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Breast-Feeding-Diet-203.aspx Breastfeeding is a very special time when you experience a wonderful bonding with your baby. Nutrition is an important aspect of breastfeeding. There are many reasons: The quality of your milk influences the growth of your baby. Mother’s milk is the only source of nutrients and energy for the first 6 months of life for your baby. Calories are needed for milk production and breastfeeding There is an increased demand for nutrients and calories during breastfeeding. Inadequ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Social-Issues-179.aspx Indian women have come a long way since independence—having defined liberty for themselves over the decades, using education and career as their main weapons. In their struggle, Indian women have won some victories that are not insubstantial, mainly, to do with the realization of their rights. These have included enactment of elaborate laws that protect women from certain long-extant moral wrongs, such as dowry, sati, immoral trafficking, etc. Despite these succ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Breast-Health-50.aspx You breasts are an essential part of you forming a part of your identity. They may provide nourishment for your children and can be a source of sexual pressure too. No matter what your age, getting to know how your breasts normally feel and look is the first step towards promoting good breast health. There is no perfect shape or size for women’s breast as they come in all shapes and sizes. What is normal for you may not be normal for another woman. Though bre... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/During--Pregnancy-77.aspx Congratulations on your pregnancy! Once your pregnancy test has given you a positive result, you may be wondering what comes next. You probably have a lot of questions. Whether this is your first pregnancy or your third, this website is designed to help answer those questions. This section on during pregnancy talks about different aspects of pregnancy – right from your growing baby to what all you should do to keep your health as well as your little one’s heal... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Beauty-140.aspx First impressions are lasting impressions. Before anybody gets to know ‘how good you are from inside’, others rate you on outward look. Our appearance is the key to our interactions with others. The way we look has a great deal to do with our own confidence and self-esteem. Looking good is not just about the right mascara or right lipstick; it’s much more than that. A normal physique, a healthy color, shining hair, glowing skin, crystal clear eyes and pink nail... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Nail-Health-138.aspx Your nails play an important role in beautifying the way you look and preserving a good health on the whole. Have you ever realized that your fingernails and toenails can indicate potential problems in other parts of your body? If you have healthy nails, they should have a pink hue. Any change in tone and texture many indicate mineral and vitamin deficiencies. Most of the time, we tend to neglect our nails. How well we maintain our hands and nails is one way we... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Alcohol-And-Health-44.aspx Social drinking is usually undertaken in social settings without intending a drunken state. It has been increasingly noted that this form of drinking is compatible with both happy and morose social occasions and is almost an indispensable aspect of the social routine nowadaysIts party time and maybe you have an occasion to celebrate. The food at the table looks yummy and yonder the liquor section beckons you for that little bit of an appetizer that you tell yourself you ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Are-You-Always-Tired-40.aspx Are you tired all the time—extremely exhausted and unable to carry on your normal daily tasks? If so, you could be suffering from a condition called chronic fatigue syndrome (CFS). Symptoms of CFS can last for more than 6 months. It can also last for years. It is further aggravated by physical or mental activity or stress and taking adequate rest does not relieve symptoms. Chronic fatigue syndrome usually begins after or during a particularly stressful event.  However, i... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Anemia-41.aspx Some women feel tired even before the day has begun. It could be a missed breakfast, a late night spent watching television or even partying with friends and family. The whole day lies ahead but there is hardly any energy left to even think clearly. The fact is lots of women feel tired everyday. And with all the demands of family, career and other activities, it is easy to understand why.But then, there could be another reason why they are so exhausted: ANEMIA.Understand... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Coping-With-Infertility-42.aspx Infertility is defined as a condition where couples fail to conceive despite more than a year of unprotected, well timed sexual intercourse. The good news is that most couples, who are unsuccessful in having a baby, eventually do conceive, with or without treatment. To know infertility better, Click here to view an animation to know the process that goes into a woman becoming pregnantMale infertility: What causes it?Male fertility involves the production of mature sperms... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Overactive-Bladder-37.aspx Overactive bladder (OAB), also called irritable bladder, is a disorder of the urinary bladder characterized by a sudden urge to urinate that you may find difficult to hold back. OAB can cause you to have little or no control over the flow of urine—a condition known as urinary incontinence where urine flow happens much against your will. Among men, it typically affects those above 65 years of age. However, women tend to be affected earlier. The chance of women getting an ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Hemarrhoids-38.aspx Hemorrhoids, also called piles, are swollen and inflamed veins in the passage for passing stools (anus and rectum). Depending on where they occur hemorrhoids are classified into three types:Internal hemorrhoids: They occur in the veins located inside your rectum. Although they may not cause pain, they may cause bleeding.External hemorrhoids: They occur in the veins outside your anus and can cause a lot of discomfort like itching and pain. Sometimes, they can also crack a... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/IBS-39.aspx Irritable bowel syndrome (IBS) or functional bowel syndrome is a disorder of the intestines. Excessive squeezing motions or the lack of adequate squeezing motion of the intestines makes food move too swiftly or too slowly through them. IBS affects both men and women but is more common in women. Symptoms of IBS Some of the most common symptoms of IBS are: Constipation, diarrhea or both. Abdominal pain that usually goes away after a bowel movement. Abdominal bloating and a... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Water-And-Health-108.aspx Water, it is said, is the elixir of life. On an average, it makes up about 60% of your body weight. We all know the importance of drinking water for our health and wellbeing. Water flushes poisonous toxins out of vital organs and carries nutrients to your cells. The lack of adequate water in your body can affect the normal functions of the body organs and can lead to dehydration. Even mild dehydration can drain your energy and make you tired. But how much water do we nee... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Miscarriage-100.aspx Normal pregnancy lasts 40 weeks. Miscarriage is a pregnancy that ends spontaneously or naturally before 20 weeks and is known as early pregnancy loss. Medically, miscarriage is also known as spontaneous abortion. However, miscarriage should not be confused with stillbirth. The loss of a fetus after the 20th week of pregnancy is called a stillbirth. About 15–20% of pregnancies result in miscarriages. Most miscarriages occur in the first 13 weeks of pregnancy. Some of them... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Making-Diet-Healthy-105.aspx The body needs vital nutrients for its varied functions. Food provides the needed nutrients to the body. Water is another important constituent of the food required for every metabolic reaction. A deficit in these essential nutrients over time results in loss of activity or reduction in some function and may modify regulation, which can lead to deficiency diseases. In addition lack of nutrients could promote chronic age relateddiseases, like diabetes, osteoporosis, strok... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Fibers-106.aspx Dietary fiber is found mainly in fruits, vegetables, whole grains and legumes. Eating foods rich in fiber has innumerable health benefits. You have probably heard people saying that fiber is good for its ability to relieve constipation. But besides this, dietary fibers are also useful in preventing many other health conditions. Benefits of fiber Lowers cholesterol levels. Reduces risk of diabetes. Decreases risk of heart disease. Prevents hemorrhoids. Prevents diverticul... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Pelvic-Prolapse-35.aspx Pelvic organ prolapse is a condition in which one or more of the organs that make up your pelvic anatomy—such as your bladder—drop from its natural position onto your lower abdomen, placing pressure against the walls of the vagina. Pelvic organ prolapse can be of many types (view animation) and more than one pelvic organ can prolapse simultaneously. Your bladder, urethra, vagina, uterus, rectum and small bowel are organs that can be involved when you have a pelvic organ ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Urinary-Tract-Infection-36.aspx Your urinary system is comprised of the kidneys, ureters, bladder and urethra all of which are involved in waste removal from your body. This happens in four steps. The kidneys filter waste from your blood. The ureters, which are tube like structures, transport urine from your kidneys to the bladder. The urine is stored in the bladder.The stored urine is then discharged from body through the urethra. Urinary tract infections (UTI), mostly caused by bacteria, begins in yo... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Post-Pregnancy-91.aspx Congratulations. You have just had a baby and may be busy with adjusting to your new life. You may be experiencing different emotions like excitement, thrill and relief, all at the same time. Having a baby is a hard work and in order to take care of the little one, you need to recover soon yourself. There are many things to know about and your mind must be bursting with a lot of ‘whats’ and ‘hows’. Here at post pregnancy, as a new mom, you will find more on th... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Reproductive-Health-60.aspx Reproductive health is a universal concern, but is of special importance for you as a woman. Your reproductive health is a vital part of your general health and is a reflection of health during childhood, and crucial during adolescence and adulthood, plays an important role in being healthy beyond the reproductive years and affects the health of the next generation. At reproductive health, we have tried to bring to you more information of topics that are of gene... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Bone-Health-56.aspx Your bones are so important that it is vital to keep our bones healthy throughout our lives. Healthy bones provide a strong foundation, allowing mobility and protection from injury. They also serve as a bank for important minerals, such as calcium, that help support numerous organs in our body.  Have you ever realized that your bones are alive and constantly changing,, with new bones being made and old bone lost throughout lives? Did you ever know that in adult... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Insomnia-43.aspx Sleep is equally as important to your health as a healthy diet and regular exercise. Insomnia (lack of sleep) can cause harm both physically as well as psychologically. On an average you need to get around 8 h of sleep every night although some individuals can do with far less sleep while some people need more than 8 h of sleep each night. You will know you slept well if you do not feel sleepy during the day.  Insomnia has serious health implications which can affect you... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Heart-Health-46.aspx Have you thought about your heart lately? Your heart is probably the most vital organ of the human body, as its role of pumping blood around the body is essential to keep the body alive and functioning effectively. Why do you need to keep a healthy heart? We generally tend to take this hard-working group of muscles for granted. Heart disease is the number one cause of death in men and women, greater than the next five causes of death combined! Do not be alarmed... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Nutrition-102.aspx The importance of good nutrition to achieve optimal health is unquestionable. Good nutrition is all about getting the food your body needs for growth, maintenance and repair. Better nutrition means stronger immune systems, less illness and better health. The best way to obtain the nutrients that are needed by your body is from natural foods and not from pills. If you can get your nutrition right, then chances are your living a healthy life in a healthy body with... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Food-Safety-110.aspx Have you ever realized that there is a hidden enemy in the form of improper handling of food can weaken your body? We seldom think of our kitchens as a danger zone and it is upsetting to think about, but the foods you eat to stay healthy can make you sick. The importance of safety in preparation and storage of food is rarely addressed in a doctor’s office visit, but is a very vital part of staying healthy. Click on the links below to learn more as the safety of ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Gall-Stones-32.aspx Your Gall Bladder is a bag like organ which is located below the liver. It is the storehouse of digestive juices that are made by your liver. Gallstones are solid deposits of cholesterol or calcium salts that form in your Gall Bladder. They can be as small as a grain of sand or as large as a golf ball and may be smooth and round or uneven with a number of edges.  You can have just onestone or hundreds of them. If left untreated gallstones can cause a lotof complications,... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Constipation-33.aspx Constipation is a condition where smooth bowel movement becomes extremely difficult. In this condition, your stools become so hard that it becomes difficult to pass out of the anus. You may also feel that your bowel movement has been inadequate and may feel the need for repeated bowel movements.Causes of constipationWhen food is ingested, your body absorbs the nutrients and water from the food. The remaining part of the food becomes the stool and passes through your inte... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Hepatitis-34.aspx Hepatitis is the inflammation of liver and it can arise as a result of certain drugs, alcohol, chemicals, viral infections and autoimmune diseases. Hepatitis is characterized by swelling of the liver resulting in liver damage. There are six currently identified strains of viral hepatitis—hepatitis A, B, C, D, E and G. Each strain is unique, differing from the others in severity and in the way it spreads. The most common hepatitis viruses are types A, B and C.Hepatitis B ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Heartburn-30.aspx Heartburn is a burning sensation that occurs at the lower regions of your chest leaving an unpleasant taste in your throat and mouth. It may also include the sensation of food or liquid coming up into the throat or mouth (regurgitation). These symptoms may be accompanied by a bitter or pungent taste. It usually occurs after a heavy meal, lasts a few minutes or hours and then is gone. The problem arises when it fails to go away.What causes heartburn? The food you eat trav... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Back-Pain-31.aspx Back pain can be caused due to various factors such as muscle strain, sprain or slipped disk. Being overweight can make back pain worse. One of the most common causes of back pain is doing work that you are not used to such as carrying heavy objects or engaging in strenuous physical work. What is a slipped disk? The bones that make up your spine contain disk-like structures between them. When a disk gets swollen and presses against the nerves, the condition is called sli... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Eye-Care-26.aspx Eyes have been described as being windows of the soul. However, most of us barely realize the role our eyes play in our world unless we find ourselves jarringly made aware of this sense by being brought into contact with someone who has an infirmity or loss of vision or when our vision seems to be failing. At such times, we may find ourselves shuddering at the thought of a world without light, color, shape and beauty. An awareness of our vision, the problems that could a... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Dental-Care-27.aspx A smile is often the mark of the beginning of a great relationship. A smile looks better if it is revealed through a neat, gleaming set of white teeth. And for a set of shining white teeth and healthy gums, maintaining good oral health is absolutely essential. Practice good dental care habits and make it a point to meet your dentist at least twice a year for a check up. Do not wait until toothache or gum problems drive you to your dentist. As with many health conditions,... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Thyroid-Disorders-28.aspx Your thyroid gland is situated in the frontal region of your neck, just below your Adam’s apple (the slight projection at the front of the throat). The thyroid gland releases hormones that control your body’s metabolism, the process which involves the rate at which your body burns up calories. When your thyroid gland releases an excess of thyroid hormones, the disorder is called hyperthyroidism or overactive thyroid disease.Symptoms of hyperthyroidismSince the progressio... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Asthma-29.aspx Asthma is a chronic, but treatable, inflammatory disease of the airways that lead to your lungs. It occurs probably due to a combination of environmental and genetic factors. You are more likely to develop asthma if it runs in your family. When you have an asthma attack, the inflammation of your airways causes them to become narrow every so often. The narrowing of your airways leads to wheezing and breathlessness, sometimes to the extent where you may gasp for air. The a... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Medical-Conditions-22.aspx Do you frequently suffer from headache and migraine?Do you find yourself suffering from constipation and heartburn?Are you having problems of anemia that is making you tired always?Are you one of those who lie without sleep suffering from insomnia? All these along with back pain, asthma, urinary tract infection, hemorrhoids, etc., are many of the common ailments that can affect our day-to-day life. Having good health is important and beneficial in every aspect. ... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Headache-23.aspx A headache is a symptom of an underlying disorder in the body and is not a disease in itself. There are several factors that contribute to the development of headaches and these include stress, dehydration, low blood sugar after missing meals, infections, high blood pressure, eye strain, brain aneurysms, brain tumors, sinusitis, head injury, and even premenstrual syndrome. Most causes of the headaches are self-limiting, that is, they subside by themselves after a while o... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Migraine-24.aspx Migraine is an intense, often unbearable type of headache found more commonly in women than in men. The pain can be so intense that it negatively affects your quality of life and day-to-day routine activities. Although much about headaches is still not clear, some researchers think migraines may be caused partly due to fluctuations in the balance of a body chemical called serotonin. High-serotonin levels cause your blood vessels to constrict. When the levels of serotonin... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Epilepsy-25.aspx Epilepsy is a disorder of the brain. There are numerous electrical impulses that keep passing through our brain cells all the time. When there is a disruption or improper conduction of these electrical impulses, a person can get a seizure.Symptoms of a seizure are characterized by sudden twitching and uncontrollable jerking motions of the arms and legs, followed by loss of consciousness. In some individuals seizures are not so severe. There may be a brief period of subtl... http://www.indianwomenshealth.com/Womens-Health-21.aspx When it comes to health, women have their own health issues that deserve special consideration. This section is your complete guide on women’s health related issues and problems that covers everything from reproductive health to mental health. In this section, we talk about achieving and maintaining general health by focusing on topics that are major health concerns for women. You can find topics on various medical problems and mental health. The sections on hea...