Showing posts with label Womens Health and Beauty. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Womens Health and Beauty. Show all posts

Thursday, December 22, 2011

Vaginal Discharge : Causes and Home Remedies


Vaginal discharge is term given to biological fluids contained within or expelled from the vagina. Most women experience vaginal discharge at some point over the course of their lives. Some types of discharge are caused by normal bodily processes, while others can be a sign of infection. Abnormal vaginal discharge can generally be recognized by a change in color or consistency that makes it look different from the normal discharge a woman is used to seeing.

Causes

Hormonal changes can cause vaginal discharge dryness and irritation in older women. You may need a prescription cream if the symptoms bother you. Any change in the balance of normal bacteria in the vagina can affect the smell, color, or texture of the discharge. These are a few of the things that can upset that balance:

.antibiotic or steroid use
.bacterial vaginosis, which is a bacterial infection more common in pregnant women or women who .have multiple sexual partners
.birth control pills
.cervical cancer
.chlamydia or gonorrhea, which are sexually transmitted infections
.diabetes
.douches, scented soaps or lotions, bubble bath
.pelvic infection after surgery
.pelvic inflammatory disease (PID)
.trichomoniasis, which is a parasitic infection typically caused by having unprotected sex
.vaginal atrophy, which is thinning and drying out of the vaginal walls during menopause
.vaginitis, which is irritation in or around the vagina
yeast infections


Home Remedies

You should consult your gynecologist for the right cause of vaginal discharge. Once you are aware of the cause, you can plan to go for home remedies that can help cure various vaginal problems.

. Keep the vagina clean by washing regularly with a gentle soap and warm water.

. Take a tampon and dip it in yogurt. Insert in the vagina, twice a day. Continue this remedy for an extra day after your symptoms go away.

. Crush an aloe leaf and extract two tablespoons of the juice. Have it thrice a day with honey for two weeks after the periods are over.

. The recommended way to consume raspberry leaf is to pour 1 cup boiling water over 1 to 2 tsp. of the raspberry herb and steep it for 10 to 15 minutes.

. Dong quai can be taken orally by consuming powdered or dried root/root slices, fluid extracts, tinctures and dried leaf preparations.

. The recommended amount of fenugreek is 20mg taken three times a day with meals.fenugreek helps to relieve excessive vaginal discharge by stimulating the uterus and balancing out hormones

. Add a tablespoon of apple-cider vinegar, with honey to taste, to a glass of hot water. Drink it first thing in the morning.

. Insert 1 or 2 capsules of boric acid into the vagina and keep it there overnight for several nights. For some women the boric acid may cause burning and discomfort for the first few days.

. Take a tablespoonful of the dried rind of pomegranate. Boil it in half a liter of water. Strain and use as a vaginal douche.

. A few drops of tea tree oil poured on a tampon and inserted in the vagina can provide some relief.

. Dissolve 1 tbsp of potassium sorbate in 1 cup water. Insert a tampon into the vagina and pour this solution inside to be absorbed by the tampon. Keep it there overnight. Repeat this for several nights.

. Mix the juice of basil leaves and honey in equal proportion and take it in the morning and evening for two weeks.

. Boil a few guava leaves in one litre of water till the water is reduced to half. Cool it and strain it. Use the water for vaginal douches twice a day.



~sources : webmd.com/home-remedies-for-you.com~

Wednesday, August 3, 2011

Breast Pain in Women : Symptoms, Causes, Treatment and Home Remedies


Breast pain or breast tenderness is a common complaint among women. You might describe your breast pain as chronic tenderness, sharp burning or tightness in your breast tissue. The pain may be constant or it may occur only occasionally.

Some women have severe breast pain, occurring more than five days a month, Severe breast pain may even persist throughout the menstrual cycle. Postmenopausal women sometimes have breast pain, but the symptom is more common in younger, premenopausal women and perimenopausal women.

Make an appointment with your doctor if:

.You have breast pain that persists daily for more than a couple of weeks
.Your breast pain is localized to one specific area of your breast
.Your breast pain seems to be getting worse over time
.Your breast pain interferes with daily activities


Symptoms of Breast Pain

The most common symptoms include related pain in the breast and surrounding area. The other symptoms might include lumps and cyst or blockage ok nipples which would eventually result in pain. Some times breast pain also occurs due to fullness of breast with milk, when the milk produces is not feed to taken out accordingly. The common symptoms are

�Pain
�Sensitivity is increased when touched, or pressure is applied
�Aching feelings
�Discomfort when accompanied by movement
�Soreness in breasts
�Swelling of breasts
�Heaviness
�Discomfort when accompanied by movement


Causes of Breast Pain

Many things can cause pain or tenderness in your breasts. Here are some of them:

.Hormone changes during your period
.Water retention, which may happen during your period
.Injury to your breast
.Pregnancy
.Breast-feeding (nursing)
.An infection in the breast
.Breast cancer (not a usual cause of breast pain)

If you have breast pain that lasts for a long time or keeps coming back, it's probably a good idea to talk to your doctor about it.


Treatments and Home Remedies for Breast Pain

Even though there is little formal research to show the efficacy of these self-care remedies, they help many women manage their breast pain. Some may be worth a try:

. Wear a firm support bra, fitted by a professional if possible.

. Wear a sports bra during exercise and while sleeping, especially when your breasts may be more sensitive.

. Experiment with relaxation therapy, which can help control the high levels of anxiety associated with severe breast pain.

. Limit or eliminate caffeine.

. Decrease the fat in your diet to less than 20 percent of total calories, which may improve breast pain by altering the fatty acid balance.

. Use a pain reliever (analgesic), such as acetaminophen (Tylenol, others) or ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin, others), to alleviate breast pain.

. Watch your intake of sodium. Sodium increases water retention, which causes your breasts to swell. Be especially careful to keep a cap on your salt consumption starting about two weeks before your period.

. Include soy food such as soybeans, soy milk, soy burgers and other soy products in your diet.

. Fish eating specially the ones with omega 3 fats like the Solomon fish, trout and sardines are highly recommended.

. Mix together cod liver oil, vitamin E, ground bark of white oak and garlic tempered oil to a pasty consistency and apply on sore nipples. This paste will help reduce any inflammation in the breast region.

. Stuff your bra with leaves from the head of a cabbage when your breasts feel tender and painful.

. Brew some tea from red raspberry, and drink it everyday. Red raspberry tea is rich in anti-oxidants and helps prevent cancer.

. Apply warm castor oil on pain effected area, by applying it with a cloth soaked in it and placed on the breast.

. Primrose oil gentle massage has been useful in relieving the breast pain. Rub it in and around the breast, it helps to reduce pain.

. Take flaxseeds with yogurt ( 2-3 spoons) is also very helpful.

. Apply a warm compress for 15-20 minutes on your breast, by using a heated towel or a heating pad to get relief from breast tenderness.

. Take a bag of ice, crushed ice is best, wrap the bag of ice in a towel and place on your breasts.

. Take dandelion in capsule form, or make a tea using powdered dandelion root. Simmer two to three teaspoons of the powder in a cup of water for 15 minutes. Drink three cups a day.

. Use ground flaxseed in your food or drink. Add about 1 tsp. of the ground flaxseed in anything you eat or drink.

. Apply Vitamin E oil to the breasts daily to ease the pain.

. Ginkgo biloba reduces breast pain because it reduces inflammation and increases circulation. It can be taken as a daily supplement.

. You can also take calcium supplements 1200mg per day. This helps in easing breast tenderness.

If you experience severe breast tenderness and soreness, see a doctor immediately. This could be cause for alarm because you may have fibro cysts or breast cancer.



~source:mayoclinic.com~

Thursday, July 28, 2011

Menstrual Cramps Home Remedies|Home Remedies for Menstrual Cramps|How to Reduce Menstrual Cramps


Menstrual cramps are pains in the belly and pelvic areas that are experienced by a woman as a result of her menstrual period. Menstrual cramps are not the same as the discomfort felt during premenstrual syndrome (PMS), although the symptoms of both disorders can sometimes be experienced as a continual process. Many women suffer from both PMS and menstrual cramps.

Menstrual cramps can range from mild to quite severe. Mild menstrual cramps may be barely noticeable and of short duration sometimes felt just as a sense of light heaviness in the belly. Severe menstrual cramps can be so painful that they interfere with a woman's regular activities for several days.

Some of the factors that increase the chances of suffering from menstrual cramps include:

� Reaching puberty at an early age, - 11 or younger
� Metrorrhagia, more commonly known as irregular menstrual bleeding
� Genetic factors, like a family history of dysmenorrhea
� Being below the age of 20 or never having been through childbirth
� Menorrhagia or heavy bleeding during periods
� Unhealthy habits like smoking, leading a sedentary lifestyle, consuming excess alcohol and taking illegal drugs


Menstrual cramps will affect most women at some point in their lives. The symptoms can annoyingly make your day unpleasant or become so severe that your regular routine is disrupted. To ease the pain and discomfort associated with this condition, consider the following home remedies for menstrual cramps:

. Do some mild exercise. Walk around the neighborhood, run on the treadmill, go ride your bike, or any other exercises you enjoy. This will increase blood flow which will help the cramps go away.

. Lie on your back with your bottom touching a wall and your feet resting above. Relax in this position when you have painful cramps and they will be alleviated.

. Try placing a hot water bottle or heating pad on your abdomen. This helps ease your muscles. A hot wash cloth or even just a warm blanket can also help.

. Try taking a hot bath or hot shower.

. Relieve your cramps with peppermint or wintergreen, especially when added to a tea. Drink one to two cups per day.

. Drink hot herbal tea or hot lemon when your pelvic region feels congested and cramped. It will increase your blood flow and relax your muscles.

. Blend and drink 75 milliliters of parsley, beet, carrot, and cucumber juice to treats painful cramping.

. Pound a piece of ginger and boil it in a cup of water for a couple of minutes. Sweeten the infusion with a little sugar and drink three times daily after meals.

. Take a multiple vitamin and mineral supplement, especially one that provides the body with calcium. Choose supplements that deliver small doses so that you can take one after each meal.

. Taking a magnesium supplement before and during your period will help your body effectively absorb more calcium.

. Add two tablespoons of basil leaves to one pint of boiling water. Cover tightly and allow the blend to cool at room temperature. Drink half to one cup of the basil tea every hour to ease your cramps.

. Sprinkle cinnamon on your breakfast foods or add to a tea. Cinnamon can ease the symptoms of menstrual cramping.

. Crush one teaspoon of fennel seeds to make a powder. Then, add one cup of boiling water. Let it steep for five minutes. Strain it and then drink it while it is still hot.

. Sprinkle ground flax seed over your salad, morning cereal, a cup of yogurt or in a smoothie. Women are usually advised to consume between one and two tablespoons of flax seed during the menstrual cycle.

. Make a simple mixture by taking about 2 tablespoons of some chamomile flowers and adding to a cup of water. This should be boiling water and the chamomile flowers should be allowed to steep in it for a few minutes. Add some honey to this mixture for added relief.

. Take 1 teaspoon of fenugreek powder with 1/2 cup water at the interval of every 3 hours till cramps subside.

. Take evening primrose oil in the form of capsules and the usual dose is 3,000 to 6,000 mg a day. This oil contains a substance that prevents uterine contractions and cramps.

. Drink red raspberry leaf tea at least once a day for 2-3 days before your period is about to start, and during menstruation. This is a great natural cure to muscle cramps and stress relief.

. Take 1-2 teaspoon of sesame seeds in a glass of water and boil it. Allow to stand for some time,then strain the mixture. Drink it 1-2 times a day.

. Eat unripe papaya. The unripe papaya helps the contractions of the muscle fibres of the uterus and is thus helpful in securing a proper menstrual flow.

. Eat a banana as soon as you feel the onset of menstrual cramps. Bananas contain both vitamin K and potassium which will help alleviate muscle cramping.

. Drinking dong quai tea or taking the herbal extract is also an effective remedy in the treatment for menstrual cramps.

. Drink a couple of cups of the juice from a coconut each day you are on your period (and eat the meat from the coconut as well).



~source:mayoclinic.com~

Thursday, July 21, 2011

Vaginal Dryness : Symptoms, Causes, Treatments and Home Remedies


Vaginal dryness is a common problem for women during and after menopause, although inadequate vaginal lubrication can occur at any age. Vaginal dryness is a hallmark sign of vaginal atrophy (atrophic vaginitis) � thinning and inflammation of the vaginal walls due to a decline in estrogen. Along with vaginal dryness, you might also have itching and stinging around the vaginal opening and in the lower third of the vagina.

Vaginal dryness can make intercourse uncomfortable. Most vaginal lubrication consists of clear fluid that seeps through the walls of the blood vessels encircling the vagina. When you're sexually aroused, more blood flows to your pelvic organs, creating more lubricating vaginal fluid. But the hormonal changes of menopause, childbirth and breast-feeding may disrupt this process.


Symptoms

Vaginal dryness may be accompanied by signs and symptoms such as:

.Itching
.Burning
.Soreness
.Pain or light bleeding with sex
.Urinary frequency or urgency


Causes of Vaginal Dryness

There are many factors that may lead to vaginal dryness. Some of them are:

.Diaphragms
.Condoms
.Tampons
.Drying soaps
.Douches
.Medications (antihistamines/decongestants, antidepressants, antibiotics)
.Chemotherapy and radiation
.Allergens (for example the fragrances and dyes in toilet paper)

While all of these may cause problems with lubrication, the main cause of vaginal dryness remains low estrogen levels.


Treatments and Home Remedies

The diagnosis of the causes for vaginal dryness is necessary, but home remedies for vaginal dryness can relieve the condition while treating any significant disease or psychological issues. There are some treatments and effective home remedies for vaginal dryness which are mentioned ahead.

. To keep body hydrated drink at least 10 glasses of water. It will help to relieve the dryness.

. Apply Vaseline on the external and also within the lips of the vagina. It helps with the itching, dryness, and also a great lubricant.

. Vitamin E oil is good too. Apply the oil with your finger into the inside wall of your vagina.

. Aloe vera if consumed with saffron, winter cherry and milk at night is known to increase vaginal lubrication.

. Use a cotton pad and dip in sesame oil. Massage the vaginal walls daily to help in restoring vaginal lubrication.

. Including yogurt, rice, barley and corn in everyday meals is also known to reduce vaginal dryness.

. Apply around � tsp of comfrey salve to your vaginal area daily after taking a bath. Comfrey contains allantoin which helps in soothing the irritated tissues and stimulates the growth of new and healthy cells.

. Fatty fish like salmon and sardines are a good source of omega-3 fatty acids. It is very important for you to have these foods as they keep the cells healthy and naturally cure infection.

. Consume flax oil several times a day as a regular treatment for vaginal dryness. You can also substitute the oil for one to two tablespoons of freshly ground flaxseeds.

. Applying wild yams to the affected area can give relief. Typically, this is done with creams that are made with wild yam. Wild yam is a natural source of estrogen, thus, increasing the estrogen levels in the vaginal area.

. Local application of turmeric or tea tree oil is considered beneficial. Both, turmeric and tea tree oil are considered to have strong anti-bacterial properties which in turn can improve the infection.

. Eat more soy-based foods, such as soymilk and tofu, into your diet, Valuable options include tofu, soymilk, soy yogurt, miso and boiled or steamed soybeans.

. Other good natural remedies for the treatment of vaginal dryness include taking Kudzu. A study showed that healthy postmenopausal women that took a Kudzu capsule daily for 24 weeks showed improvements in vaginal dryness.

. Take a glass of water and add a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds and allow it to boil for 10-15 minutes.

. Herbs such as Dong Quai, a very well known Chinese herb helps to support balance of female hormones and to promote hormonal health. Available as a supplement at most natural health stores.

. Regularly drink fresh milk with 1 teaspoon of saffron in it. This will help to reduce vaginal dryness.

. Squeeze the oil of 6 vitamin E capsule into a cup. Add 5 teaspoon of black cohosh cream and mix. Apply it to the inside part as well outside of the vagina two or three times a day till relief.

. Take a cup of oat straw regularly to keeps the female reproductive organs in good condition and helps the skin glow.

. Try Kegel exercises since they may increase circulation to the pelvic area and thus help you keep vaginal tissue healthy and strong.



~source:mayoclinic.com~

Tuesday, July 19, 2011

Vaginal Itching : Causes, Home Remedies and Preventions


Vaginal itching is a tingling or uneasy irritation of the skin of the vagina and the surrounding area (vulva). The itching may cause a desire to scratch the affected area. Many women will experience vaginal itching at some point during their lives. It�s an unpleasant condition that needs proper care.


Causes

Common causes of vaginal itching include:

.Chemical irritants -- such as detergents, fabric softeners, feminine sprays, ointments, creams, douches, and contraceptive foams or jellies.
.Menopause -- the drop in estrogen causes thinning of the vaginal wall and less lubrication.
.Stress -- may increase vaginal itching and make you more susceptible to infections.
.Vaginal yeast infection -- often includes a discharge that is white and curd-like. Vaginal yeast infections can be brought on by antibiotics, birth control pills, pregnancy, menstruation, condom use, sexual intercourse, diabetes, and a weakened immune system.
.Vaginitis -- inflammation, itching, discharge, and odor caused by other infections (including sexually transmitted diseases). Vaginitis in girls before puberty is common. If a young girl has a sexually transmitted vaginal infection, however, sexual abuse must be considered and addressed.

Other possible, but less common, causes of vaginal or vulvar itching include the presence of other skin conditions that may or may not be precancerous, and pinworms -- a condition that primarily infects children.


Home Remedies

The following are some commonly used home remedies are proven in most patients with vaginal itching. These home remedies have worked for many women with vaginal itching but the results can vary from person to person.

. Mix three tablespoons of the apple cider vinegar, in one quart of warm water and fill your douche bag. You can safely do this twice a day to make the itching go away.

. Regular consumption of ginseng may act as a replacement for lowered estrogen levels, and eliminate the dryness, itching and burning associated with menopause.

. Apply ice or a cold compress for immediate relief from the itching. This is especially effective at night when the itching is most intense.

. Fill a shallow tub or sitz bath with warm water and a half cup of salt. Stir until the salt dissolves, then sit in the water for 10 to 15 minutes.

. Eat 1 cup of yogurt a day. Make sure the yogurt doesn't contain any sugar and that it has live acidophilus cultures in it. Acidophilus helps control the fungus that causes yeast infections.

. Apply yogurt to the vulva to help relieve external itching.

. Rinse your vagina with warm water mixed with 2 tablespoons of cider vinegar twice a day for two days.

. Increase your intake of foods high in vitamin C, such as citrus fruits, tomatoes, strawberries and broccoli.

. Apply aloe vera gel liberally to the affected area. Repeat process until you get relief from itching.

. Drink 1-2 cups of nettle tea daily to get relief from this problem. Add 1 tabelspoon of dried nettle leaves to a cup of boiling water

. Apple cider vinegar mixed with yogurt and water can be dabbed on the irritated area with a washcloth. Wash with cool water if there is a stinging sensation.

. Buttermilk provides good results in stopping the growth of bacteria, which may cause the itching. Apply it to the vaginal area or drink it everyday.

. Garlic is also used for feminine itching due to its antifungal properties. Create a drink made from crushed whole garlic and water, and consume until itching is gone.

. Herbal extracts are ideal for home remedies, specifically extracts of olive leaves, grapefruit seed and slippery elm.

. Boil a tablespoon of the dried rind of pomegranate in 2 cups of water, strain and use as vaginal douche for the fishy smell and irritation.

. Boil 150 gm of lady finger in two cups of water, for about 15-20 minutes. Strain the water and add little sugar to taste. Take 50-100 ml of the decoction at frequent intervals to treat vaginal itching or vaginitis.

. Extract juice from fresh henna leaves and take a tablespoon twice a day. Take one on empty stomach in the morning, and another, 4-6 hours after lunch. Take this for ten days to cure symptoms of vaginitis.

. Add a sliced banana to a tablespoon each of honey and gooseberry juice, and eat it daily for a few days to get relief from vaginal itching.

. Juice some asparagus roots and take a tablespoon of it two times in a day for 2 weeks to treat vaginal itching.

. Boil a tablespoon of the dried rind of pomegranate in 2 cups of water, strain and use as vaginal douche for the fishy smell and itching.

. Boil 1 thread of saffron in � cup of water with a teaspoon of milk added to it. Boil until � of the solution remains, and drink it daily to cure vaginal itching, discharges, burning, and irritations.


Preventions

Once your genital itching is relieved and remedied, you�ll want to take the proper steps to keep it from happening again. Assuming you�ve had a pelvic exam and have ruled out any sexually transmitted disease itching or symptoms (which may require antibiotics), you can follow these steps to prevent vaginal itching from occurring in the future.

- Use well washed under garments.
- Maintain good toilet hygiene.
- Always take a warm bath.
- Avoid irritants like scented tampons.
- Use condoms during sexual intercourse.
- Always keep vaginal area clean.
- Clean your vagina area thoroughly after having sex.
- Avoid tight clothes and wear cotton panties.
- Avoid douching as it disturbs the balance of the microorganisms within the vagina.
- Be sure to clean diaphragms, cervical caps and spermicide applicators after each use.
- Take care to clean the anal area from front to back to prevent the intestinal bacteria from spreading into the vagina.



~source:simple-remedies.com~

Tuesday, July 12, 2011

Vaginal Odor : Causes and Natural Home Remedies


Vaginal odor is any abnormal odor which originates from the vagina. An abnormal vaginal odor is often described as having a "fishy" smell. Abnormal vaginal odor is often associated with other symptoms such as vaginal itching or irritation and vaginal discharge. Left untreated, this condition may cause not only physiologic problems but also emotional (stress) and social problems (the person feels uncomfortable thinking the odor is detected by others.

The most common cause of vaginal odor is bacterial vaginosis (BV), which is associated with an overgrowth of certain bacteria in the vagina. Some of the causes of smelling vaginal include:-

* Douching
* Over washing
* Application fragranced articles on the affectionate areas
* Smoking
* Eating a bad diet
* Application an IUD
* Having unprotected sex
* Wearing panties fabricated from constructed bolt or deeply applicable trousers
* A vaginal infection
* Pelvic inflammatory disease

Many women wish to know of ways for reducing vaginal odor but do not whom to turn to. They are frustrated and embarrassed but prefer wincing from the problem. Usually, women are not very comfortable in discussing problems related to their private parts. You can get rid of foul vaginal odor and you can really do it right in the comfort of your own house. These natural remedies are designed to not only rid the smell, but to also kill the infection.

Natural Home Remedies for Vaginal Odor

. Wear cotton underwear. Cotton is a distinctive fabric in that it enables oxygen to pass by way of, but absolutely nothing else. Silk doesn�t have this identical top quality.

. Tea tree oil in your bath will help to eliminate bacteria that are getting the odor. Just a few drops in the tub are all it takes. Tea tree oil is antibacterial oil and it will fight off the unhealthy bacteria while leaving the healthy bacteria intact.

. Yogurt is one of the foods that a woman should eat everyday to make sure that there is a balance between the good bacteria and the bad bacteria in the body. Yogurt contains live finishes that will bring the body into balance.

. You can create a wash to use specifically for this area of the body with grapefruit oil and water. Make sure that the oil is diluted effectively.

. Put a cup of apple cider vinegar in the bath as this will do the trick to obviate vaginal odor. The apple cider vinegar is one of the home remedies for vaginal odor that is also used for bacterial vaginosis.

. Mix 2 to 3 drops of tea tree oil to 5 to 6 ounces of water. The solution is to be applied to the vagina. Tea tree oil has antibacterial nature.

. Add 1 tablespoon of chlorophyll in 7 to 8 ounces of water and consume the mixture. Green plants produce chlorophyll. It acts like a natural deodorizer.

. Dip a tampon in yogurt and then insert it into the vagina. This would ensure that the healthy bacteria tackle the harmful ones successfully.

. Vitamins C which is ascorbic acid should be included in the diet. You should consume as many citrus fruits as you can as they are rich sources of this vitamin.

. Use a solution of vinegar, salt, and water to wash the vaginal area several times a day, another effective choice in home remedies for vaginal bacteriosis.

. Use baking soda solution to wash the vaginal area. Just a little baking soda and some water can do the trick. Baking soda is very alkaline and when you mix some thing really alkaline with some thing really acidic, you neutralize it.

. Use fresh garlic and make a paste that is applied to the outside area of the vagina at night and remove it the following morning. 

. Be sure and drink plenty of water. Water helps keep the vagina flushed of bacteria and other contaminants. It also helps flush away the sugars that act as fuel for yeast infections.

. Wash the vaginal area with an antiseptic solution made by mixing turmeric and water 1:5 ratio.

. Crush a clove of garlic in a cup, add half a cup of yogurt with 1/4 tsp turmeric powder and take this first thing empty stomach every morning for 6 weeks.




~source:bettermedicine.com~

Thursday, July 7, 2011

Blocked Milk Duct : Symptoms, Causes and Natural Home Remedies


A blocked milk duct sometimes occurs in breast-feeding women. A blocked milk duct can cause a painful swollen area in a breast. The overlying skin is sometimes red and inflamed, but not so intense as with infective mastitis. When you feed your baby, the pain may increase due to the pressure of milk building up behind the blocked duct.

A blocked milk duct will usually clear within 1-2 days and symptoms will then go. However, in some cases a blocked milk duct becomes infected and develops into a mastitis. So, some cases of mastitis develop as a complication of a blocked milk duct, but some cases occur without a preceding blockage.


Symptoms of Blocked Milk Duct

.Tenderness or bruised feeling.
.Lumpiness in one area.
.Pain as your milk lets down.
.Redness. This is inflammation - may not be infection.


The most common causes for blocked milk duct are:

.A hurried feed or missing a feed.
.Baby having a cold, leading to difficulty feeding.
.Unusual food has made your milk taste different, and baby did not like it.
.Pressing your finger on the breast to allow air to baby�s nose.
.Tight bra, clothes, seat belts.
.Sleeping in a position that squashes the breast.
.Milk dried into one of the ducts in the nipple


While medical remedies are available for all these contingencies there are some home remedies also and these home remedies are time tested and they have been time and again proven to be effective.

. Make sure that you nurse your baby frequently. This practice is very necessary in order to empty the breast completely. Breast feeding the baby often, can help increase comfort and reduce inflammation of the breasts. It is one of the most natural remedies for treating blocked milk duct.

. Massage the sore area of breast frequently, especially after every feeding. To massage it effectively, start from the top of the breast and gently work towards the nipple area. Sometimes by hand pressing the breast, particularly while taking a warm shower, the clog tends to open up and dissolve so that the milk can flow freely. In some cases, it has been found that the combination of warm shower and massage helps to remove the dried milk lump lump that has blocked the nipple.

. Placing of warm compress, towel or heating pad on the nipple before breast feeding can also help the blocked milk ducts to open up and in the process allow milk to drain uninterruptedly.

. Holding your baby in different positions every time while breast feeding ensures that the milk ducts empty properly. When the breast is sore and milk duct is blocked, it is a very simple natural remedy to try positioning your baby in a way that the chin of the baby is pointing towards the sore point. This would direct the suction towards the clogged duct and improve the healing process.

. Avoid wearing tight bras and clothing as they aid in blocking the milk ducts. Under wired bras should also be avoided as they tend to cut the breasts and thereby cause infection. While nursing, your bra should be well fitting and should allow you to breathe easily.

. Massage the breasts with a comb. Use a wide-toothed comb, or one without sharp teeth; soap the blocked area, and �comb� from the outside towards the nipple. This can help break up the blockage. Try not to leave soap on your nipple.

. Arm-swinging exercises encourage circulation: washing windows or cleaning the car.

. Check your nipples for a white �spot� that may be dried milk. Gently squeeze or pick it out.

. A sufficient intake of vitamin C helps prevent clogging of milk ducts and at the same time promotes healing of clogged ducts.

. Drink hot herbal infusions of lecithin and Echinacea. These will help relieve the pain and unclogging the ducts.

. Soak your breasts in warm water with some Epsom salts added. (one handful of Epsoms with every 2L of water). Rinse your breasts afterwards just to remove the saltiness.

. Dangle feeding (breastfeed while leaning over baby) can be used in order for gravity to pull the blocked ducts open.

. Get one teaspoon of castor oil and gently massage the breast starting at the center of your chest side of your breast and work across toward the other side of your breast in the direction of your arm pit area. Be sure to include massaging around and underneath the nipple, and to the sides.

. A warm compress using a cabbage leaf is an excellent way to help loosen the blockage in a clogged milk duct. Simply microwave a cabbage leaf for a few seconds in the microwave and then place it on the breast for 2 to 3 minutes (make sure it is not too hot). Repeat this every hour throughout the day.

. Refrigerate a potato for a few hours, and then grate some of the potato. Apply the grated potato over the affected breast and cover with a clean wash cloth or towel for 5 minutes while lying down. Repeat this every hour throughout the day using some freshly grated potato.

. Two teaspoons of dried leaf of goat�s Rue put in boiled water if taken regularly, the quantity of secretion of breast milk will increase by almost 50% and it also clears the milk ducts of all types of clogging.

. Take some parsley and put it on a cotton diaper. Tie the ends securely and dip the diaper in boiling water for about 15 minutes. Cool the diaper to the required temperature and gently compress the breasts with the diaper.




~source:naturalhealthanswers.co.uk~

Wednesday, May 25, 2011

Urinary Tract Infection : Causes, Prevention and Home Remedies


Urinary tract infection (UTI) is a bacterial infection that affects any part of the urinary tract. Urinary tract infections are very common. Women are more suseptible to getting an infection because they have a shorter urethra than men and can get bacteria into the urinary tract more easily. Some women are also prone to recurring infections and these women may continue to have recurrences.

The most common cause of UTI is when bacteria from the rectum or the vagina enters the urinary tract through the urethra. Once this bacteria enters into the urethra it travels upward into the bladder or other parts of the urinary tract causing an infection.

Waiting too long before urinating can also cause bladder infections. The bladder can be stretched to far and over time will weaken the bladder muscle causing the bladder to retain and not empty out completely. Some of the urine is then left in the bladder and may be a risk in causing urinary tract infection or bladder infection. During sex vaginal bacteria can work its way into the urethra.


The symptoms of urinary tract infections:

.Urge to urinate that cannot be delayed
.Sharp pain or burning sensation in the urethra when urininating
.Very little urine may be released
.Urine may have blood in it
.Pain in the lower abdomen or back

If you have a kidney infection instead, you may experience back pain, chills, fever, nausea and vomiting as well as the UTI symptoms. Be sure to get to your doctor immediately if you suspect a kidney infection.


There are various home remedies for urinary tract infection and have prove effective to many people suffering from such infections.

. Drink lots of water. This will help flush the bacteria out of your bladder and urinary tract.

. Taking cranberry juice prevents bacteria from sticking to the urinary tract walls, making it easier to eliminate them in the urine.

. Watermelon alleviates urinary tract problems, and cleans and refreshes the kidneys.

. Sip a cup of coconut water before breakfast to remove kidney impurities.

. Peel and crush two garlic cloves. Put them in a cup of warm water. Let stand for five minutes and drink. Garlic kills bacteria.

. Put a teaspoon of dried nettle leaves in a cup of water and boil for 5 minutes. Strain and drink.

. Eat asparagus - asparagus is prescribed as a purifier of the urinary tract and helps cure cystitis.

. Cut the onion in four parts, put them in half a liter of water in a stainless steel pot and let boil for about 20 minutes. Remove and let stand for 8 hours. Strain and drink.

. Eating yogurt to is also good for relieving urinary tract infection.

. Drinking one glass of water by adding half teaspoon of baking soda in it will prove highly beneficial.

. Drinking the mixture of cranberry juice and apple juice is also one of the very effective home remedies for urinary tract infection.

. The juice of grapes is also useful in the treatment of urinary tract infection.

. Increase the intake of vitamin C, as this will increase your immunity levels and thus prevent further growth of bacteria.

. Prepare berry juice and have it two times in a day.

. Mix 2 tsp of apple cider vinegar and 1 tsp of honey and water. Drink this twice a day.

In case the pain is not going and you are not getting any relief, then it is better to visit your doctor, as there could be some other complication that might be responsible for the pain.



~source:home-remedies-for-you.com~

Monday, March 14, 2011

Foods That Make Your Breasts Bigger : Boost Your Breasts Naturally

As time goes on, breasts begin to sag; they lose their firmness and their shape; they �deflate�. Some women may be willing to undergo surgery to correct this sign of aging, but several either do not have the monetary funds to do so or are not brave enough to do it.

You do not have to live with a flat chest forever, even if you do hate the idea of surgery. There is some evidence that certain foods will actually boost your breasts naturally over time.

Soy Products

It is said that soy-related products that contain the soy protein will help increase your bust size. Soy does have a natural plant-form of estrogen in it, which will help stimulate breast growth.

Some sources of soy include:

Tofu
Edamame beans (soy beans)
Garden �veggie� burgers (with soy) and other meat-replacement foods
Soy milk
Soy fortified products

Yeast Products

Some women have claimed that adding more yeast to their diet also added more to their breasts. Though it is not entirely known how yeast may cause breast growth, it is suspected that the yeast stimulates tissue growth and some water retention that will enhance your bust as a result. Some foods that contain yeast include:

Beer
Pasta
Pizza
Bread
Buns
Cakes
Cookies

Dairy Products

Dairy products work in numerous ways to help increase your breast size. One is that eating a lot of dairy products will add more weight to your overall body, which in turn can potentially increase your breast size. Low fat dairy products have been shown to slim your waist, which can make your natural breasts how they are now appear larger as a result. Lastly, dairy products often still contain growth hormones that were injected into the cow. When passed on to humans, these hormones can have a similar effect.

Some dairy products to consider consuming to add more inches to your bust include:

Milk
Yogurt
Cheese

Water

That�s right, some women swear by staying hydrated to keep their breasts full and perky. Keeping your body hydrated will undoubtedly keep your cells healthy and keep your entire body more youthful overall. Be sure to get your 8 to 10 glasses of water a day; it�s your key to eternal youth and beauty!

Before considering any drastic change to your diet, such as adding or increasing dairy or soy protein foods to your meals, it is important to discuss your weight and body image goals with a professional practitioner.

Wednesday, March 9, 2011

Hourglass Shaped Body : Fashion For Hourglass Shaped Body, How To Dress To Flatter Your Shape






Fashion Tips For Your Body Shape: Hourglass

Learn how to dress to flatter your shape with our fashion guide for people who are 'hourglass' shaped and have a large bust and hips with a narrower waist.

1. The hourglass is the classic voluptuous shape. If you are an hourglass you have a large bust and hips and a narrower waist.

2. Emphasise your natural curves with a wrap dress which will show off your slim waist. If you have straight shoulders, choose A-line dresses and skirts which will balance your shoulder line.

3. Wear fitted jackets and complement your curves with rounded hems, pockets and lapels. Avoid too much detail on top such as large pockets or buttons which will make you look larger.

4. Flared or boot cut trousers will balance the curve of your hips. Trousers should be flat fronted and fastened at the side to minimize the bulk around your hips.

5. Wear tops with gently defined waists and feminine, gathered or fluted sleeves. Show off your cleavage with V-necks, scoop necks or wrap tops. Avoid spaghetti straps or halter-necks if your arms are un-toned.

6. The hourglass shape doesn't need any extra volume so avoid thick, bulky fabrics and too many accessories.

Tuesday, March 8, 2011

Boyish Shaped Body : Fashion For Boyish Shaped Body, How To Dress To Flatter Your Shape





Fashion Tips For Your Body Shape: Boyish


Learn how to dress to flatter your shape with our fashion guide for people who are 'boyish' shaped with a straight up and down figure.

1. The boyish shape is 'straight up and down', which means you have narrow hips and a small bust. Whether you're tall or short, your bust, waist and hip measurements tend to be quite similar.

2. Create curves with details at the bust and hips such as shirt dresses with breast pockets, or high waist wrap dresses. Wear a belt over dresses or skirts to create shapeliness.

3. Wear jackets with wide lapels and pockets that flare out from the waist to create hips. Jackets with tie belts rather than buttons will also make you look more curvy.

4. Wear boot-cut trousers or wide legged hipsters to add curves. If you're short, wear jeans with high pockets to add shape and elongate your legs.

5. Show off your legs with skinny jeans and long boots. Shoes and boots with heels will give you more of an 'S' shape by arching your back and lifting your bum and bust.

6. If you have toned arms, strapless tops will suit you. If your arms aren't toned, try wearing vest tops over shirts.

7. Tops can be bold in colour, texture and design. Create curves with accessories such as belts, scarves and jewellery.

Monday, March 7, 2011

Apple Shaped Body : Fashion For Apple Shaped Body, How To Dress To Flatter Your Shape





Fashion Tips For Your Body Shape: Apple

Learn how to dress to flatter your shape with our fashion guide for people who are 'apple' shaped and have a round profile.

1. Apples have a round profile, which means they carry weight on their stomach and bust, and tend to have thinner arms and legs.

2. If you are an apple, wear dresses that fall softly from the bust and have a flared hem to balance out your curves.

3. Dresses and skirts should be knee length to show off your legs.

4. Avoid denim jackets or jackets with bulky pockets which will make you look larger. Wear tailored jackets with flare and a simple fastening.

5. Trousers should be wide leg or flared to balance out the width around your centre. Flat-fronted, side-fastening trousers will minimise unnecessary bulk.

6. Your slimmest point is just under the bust so wear tops that are tighter here and skim your stomach.

7. Wedges will show off your slim ankles without making you look top heavy.

8. Wide-necked or wrap tops will show off your decolletage.

9. Draw attention upwards to the neck with accessories such as scarves, brooches or soft, rounded collars.

Sunday, March 6, 2011

Pear Shaped Body : Fashion For Pear Shaped Body,How To Dress To Flatter Your Shape





Fashion Advice For Your Body Shape: Pear


Learn how to dress to flatter your shape with our fashion guide for people who are 'pear' shaped and have a larger bottom half than top half.

1. Pears have a larger bottom half than top half. If you are a pear you probably have wide hips, narrower shoulders and a small bust.

2. Pears should wear clothes that minimize hips and draw attention upwards.

3. Dresses and skirts should be A-line or flared at the hem with a side zip to minimize bulk around the hips.

4. Jackets should stop at or above your hips. If it is double breasted or has a detailed collar, it will balance out your silhouette and draw the eye upwards.

5. Reduce the appearance of your hips with dark trousers that flare below the knee. Wear flat-fronted, side-fastening trousers and avoid pleats, pockets or seams on the hips which will add to your bulk.

6. If you have chunky legs, wear boots to cover your calves, or platforms to elongate and slim your legs.

7. Broaden the appearance of your shoulders by wearing tops with boat necklines, ballet necklines, or wide lapels. Tops with capped sleeves or three-quarter length sleeves will also balance out your profile. Add interest to your neckline with scarves and accessories. Tops in bright colours, patterns and textures will also draw attention upwards.

Saturday, March 5, 2011

Cover A Spot : How To Cover A Spot, How To Cover Up Spots




Concealer:
How To Cover A Spot

Having zits, pimples and spots isn't easy and even the most confident of people can become self-conscious and upset. Last-minute skin care tricks can save your look from disasters. Whether you suffer from a lot of spots or just the occasional breakout, follow our advice to help you cover up even the most noticeable of acne.


1: Prepare

Before you even contemplate techniques to cover spots it is important to prepare correctly. This means always washing your face thoroughly before going to bed. Also make sure you moisturise any blemishes as it will be easier to cover red skin than to cover dry skin.

2: Foundation

Depending on what suits your skin, you could use either a foundation or a tinted moisturiser on your face, and for smaller blemishes and spots this can sometimes be enough. This isn't a necessity but if you normally use these products then they should be applied before any concealer is used.

3: Concealer

Warm a small amount of concealer on the back of your hand, and using a small brush or cotton bud apply it directly onto the spot. You can get medicated concealer's which will help to heal blemishes and decrease their redness.

4: Blend

Finally, using a small brush, blend the concealer at the edges of the spot onto the rest of the skin to give a more even finish.

Wednesday, March 2, 2011

Vaginal Yeast Infection : Causes, Symptoms, Treatments and Home Remedies

Vaginal yeast infection is an infection of the vagina, most commonly due to the fungus Candida albicans.Most women will have a vaginal yeast infection at some time. Candida albicans is a common type of fungus. It is often present in small amounts in the vagina, mouth, digestive tract, and on the skin. Usually it does not cause disease or symptoms.
Candida and the many other germs or microorganisms that normally live in the vagina keep each other in balance. However, when the vagina has certain favorable conditions, the number of Candida albicans increases, leading to a yeast infection.


Symptoms

* Abnormal vaginal discharge - ranges from a slightly watery, white discharge to a thick, white, chunky discharge (like cottage cheese)

* Pain with intercourse

* Painful urination

* Redness and swelling of the vulva

* Vaginal and labial itching, burning


Treatments

* Keep your genital area clean and dry. Avoid soap and rinse with water only. Sitting in a warm, but not hot bath may help your symptoms.

* Avoid douching. Although many women feel cleaner if they douche after menstruation or intercourse, it may actually worsen vaginal discharge because it removes healthy bacteria lining the vagina that protect against infection.

* Eat yogurt with live cultures or take Lactobacillus acidophilus tablets when you are on antibiotics to prevent a yeast infection.

* Use condoms to avoid catching or spreading sexually transmitted diseases.

* Avoid using feminine hygiene sprays, fragrances, or powders in the genital area.

* Avoid wearing extremely tight-fitting pants or shorts, which may cause irritation.

* Wear cotton underwear or cotton-crotch pantyhose. Avoid underwear made of silk or nylon, because these materials are not very absorbant and restrict air flow. This can increase sweating in the genital area, which can cause irritation.

* Use pads and not tampons.

* Keep your blood sugar levels under good control if you have diabetes.


Natural ways to treat vaginal yeast infection include:

* Eat yogurt - Yogurt has good bacteria's that fight off the infection and return the body's natural metabolism. You can eat the yogurt directly and or you can use it as a cream that you can apply in the infected area directly.

* Garlic - garlic are not only good for cooking they are also good for removing the yeast infection. The natural anti bacterial properties of garlic are good for fighting off the infection. You can either eat the garlic directly or you can turn it into a paste and apply it directly on the infected area.

* Tea Tree Oil - tea tree oil has natural anti bacterial properties that also help fight off the infection. You can use the tea tree oil as an ointment to apply directly to the infection or you can put some in warm water and use it in your bath.

* Aloe Vera - Aloe Vera has been used since ancient Egyptian times for it medicinal and anti bacterial properties. You can buy Aloe Vera, remember the fresh ones, and then you can turn it into paste by mashing it and applying it directly onto the affected area.

Sunday, February 27, 2011

Whiteheads : How To Get Rid of Whiteheads, Treatments and Home Remedies



Whiteheads are a mass of hardened sebum appearing most frequently on the face, forehead and the nose and are caused by the accumulation of sebaceous matter beneath the skin. People of all age groups can be affected with whiteheads. Removing blackheads and whiteheads at home with home remedies is simpler, less painful and has no side effects.

How To Get Rid Of Whiteheads With Home Remedies :

# Wash the skin 3 times a day with medicated soap, if the skin is greasy or with plain water if the skin is dry.

# Unclog skin pores by steaming and applying face packs regularly.

#Drink plenty of water and fruit juices.

# Mix cornstarch with apple cider vinegar, make a paste and apply on the whiteheads for 15-30 minutes. Wash off with washcloth and warm water, this helps to get rid whiteheads.

# Take 1/4 Th cup of unboiled milk and add 1/2 Tsp of salt and two teaspoonful of lime juice in it. Use it as a cleansing lotion. It helps to clean pores and make your skin free from blackheads and whiteheads.

# Mix 1 tablespoon olive oil with 1 tablespoon fresh lime juice and massage before bath for a few minutes to prevent formation of whiteheads.

# Used green tea helps remove whiteheads, when the leaves are scrubbed on face for a few minutes and then washed with water. Do it twice a week and see the difference.

# A whitehead can be best removed by steaming the face for 1-2 minutes. When the whiteheads in the pores have softened, very gently press it out with your two fingers keeping them on either side of the whitehead and gently putting pressure on it and then close the pores with an astringent.

# A teaspoon of yogurt can be massaged on face for a few minutes and then rinsed with warm water.

# Another natural remedy is an honey mask, apply on face regularly to pull out dirt and oil.

# Apply toothpaste at white heads when go to bed, leave it for night, and then wash at morning.

# Apple is also effective. Squeeze an apple and add in to it almost 3 table spoons of honey and apply at the effected area.

# Oatmeal paste not used only for cooking but also in cosmetic products as facial mask to remove white, black heads.

Thursday, February 24, 2011

Breast Self Aware : How To Become Breast Self Aware, Breast Self Examination

Self-Check:How To Become Breast Self Aware

It is so important to be breast self-aware as early detection is the best defense against breast cancer. Here is how to conduct a breast self-examination to protect yourself from breast cancer.

Step 1: Examine yourself in the mirror

Begin by looking at your breasts in the mirror with your arms by your side or on your hips and check that they are their usual shape, size and condition. Look for inversion of the nipple, irregular discharge or a rash.

Step 2: Raise your arms

Now, raise your arms and look again for any changes, particularly any signs of puckering, dimpling or redness.

Step 3: Feel your breasts

Raise one arm in the air or place it behind your head. Use the pads of your three middle fingers of the other hand keeping the fingers flat and together. Using a firm, smooth touch, feel your entire breast including the nipple and armpit (be particularly aware of swellings in this area). The aim is to cover the whole breast from top to bottom, side to side including the underarm area.

Step 4: Use the circular method

Using a circular motion, start from the nipple and move out around the breast being aware of lumps or other irregularities

Step 5: Contact your doctor

The vast majority of lumps are not cancerous. It could simply be a cyst, or just natural lumpiness. If you have any doubts get it checked out by your doctor as soon as possible.

Tuesday, February 22, 2011

Categories of Perfumes : How To Choose Perfumes

For centuries, perfume has been an essential part of human culture: people have perfumed their hair and bodies with oils, resins, flowers, herb extracts and animal scents since earliest history. Wearing scent is pleasurable; it�s an expression of eccentricity.

Nowadays, women are more likely to treat fragrance as an accessory, changing their perfume daily.But sometimes, too much choice can lead to confusion. If you're like most women, you have multiple perfume bottles cluttering your vanity table.

There are eight major perfume categories:

Citrus

Infused with the tangy essence of citrus fruits, these perfumes are lively and energetic. They are best enjoyed as a daytime delight, just the thing to wake you up in the morning before you've had that second coffee. Wear a citrus perfume to meet your girlfriends for brunch, brighten a baby shower, or ride your bicycle to the organic market.

Floral

Sweet and romantic, these scents are the "good girls" of the fragrance aisle. Florals are sometimes single note, but generally combine the scents of various flowers to create a classic feminine appeal. Spritz on a floral when you want to show off your sweet-and-girly side -- when meeting your boyfriend's parents comes to mind. These scents are also appropriate at the ballet, or your best friend's wedding.

Fruity

Like a cheerleader with a wicked side, fruity perfumes are fresh and spicy. These fragrances please the nose with the bright and familiar smells of apple, peach, berry, mango and other juicy fruits, often blended with florals to create a compelling aroma. Pretty without being overwhelming, these perfumes are ideal for a movie-and-dinner first date. Just apply sparingly.

Green

Smelling of fresh leaves and newly-mown grass, the green fragrances are a natural and energetic group. These scents tend toward the unisex, so are best left on the shelf when you're dressing to impress a hot date. Save them for daytime instead, when their sporty, modern appeal makes them a great fit for any casual or outdoor gathering. Wear one to cheer on your favorite football team, at the golfing range, or on a flea market amble with friends.

Oceanic

Oceanic perfumes are a modern invention, first appearing with Christian Dior's Dune in 1991. These scents use a blend of synthetic compounds to evoke natural aromas such as mountain air, ocean spray or clean linen. Crisp and fresh, they are an ideal choice for job interviews, when you want your perfume to say, "I'm clean, efficient and won't stink up the joint if hired."

Oriental

Think of oriental perfumes as the fragrance equivalent of cleavage and a killer pair of stilettos. Exotic and distinctly feminine, these sensual blends feature an earthy, animalistic base scent such as musk or ambergris, often combined with warm notes such as amber. Wear one when you want to seduce, whether it's a third date or just a rare night out without the kids.

Spicy

Sugar and spice and everything nice, that's what these perfumes smell like. Uncap one and be transported to your mom's kitchen - if your mom was the type who baked cinnamon rolls and gingerbread from scratch. With notes of cloves, ginger, cinnamon, cardamon and pepper, spicy perfumes are comforting and alluring in an old-fashioned way. Wear one to your next parent-teacher meeting, or at lunch with that handsome officemate who you wouldn't mind sharing pastry with.

Woody (Chypre)

Woody scents are built on base notes of bark and moss, conjuring winding forest paths. While more unisex than other fragrance categories, that's not to say these scents are masculine. They evoke a particular brand of no-nonsense femininity. This strong and classic appeal translates well to the corporate office, too. Wear one to your next performance review.

Monday, February 21, 2011

Healthy Manicures : How To Get Healthy Manicures


Millions of women visit manicurists to have their nails professionally manicured every year. What can you do to lower your risk of developing an infection or fungus,caused by a manicure? A few simple steps before your next manicure can significantly lower your risk of developing a painful nail infection or fungus, or disease.

1. Buy your own manicure or pedicure kit and take it with you when you visit your manicurist. Make sure you clean and disinfect your manicure kit after each use, even if you are the only one using your kit.

2. Bring your own nail polish, base coat, and top coats. Remove your old nail polish at home, or bring nail polish remover with you.

3. Check out the salon where you have your nails done. Does it look clean and sanitary? Is the trash container properly bagged and covered? Is the floor clean? Are the manicure tables kept neat and tidy? Is there plenty of good light? Look at the disinfectant containers and make sure that they are clear, clean, and free of debris.

4. If you are not using your own manicure kit: Are all instruments cleaned and disinfected after each use? Does the manicurist use fresh, clean instruments on each client? Does the manicurist remove the clean, disinfected, instruments from the disinfectant in front of you?

5. Make sure that the manicurists wash their hands before and after each client, and that clients wash before their nails are done.

6. Never use a towel that is not fresh and clean.

7. Make sure that plenty of clean, disinfected, nail brushes are available for each client.

8. Make sure that a new, unused, emory board is used for each client.

9. Consider using cuticle softener, rather than cuticle scissors to reduce the risk of broken skin occurring.

Saturday, February 19, 2011

How To Enlarge Breasts Naturally : How To Increase Breasts Size, How To Make Breasts Look Bigger


Some women wish that their breasts were larger and were able to fill out clothes better. Others, watch their breasts begin to sag or droop as they age. Girls now begin to develop bodily perception of themselves at an even younger age. This self awareness coupled with their desire to make a change leads women to take a look at available options to increase their breast size.

How to Enlarge Breasts Naturally

1/ Exercise � by strengthening the pectoris muscles underneath the breast tissue, breasts can look larger and more tone. Common exercises to achieve this effect include push-ups or drawing the arms repeatedly together to bring the palms of the hands together.

2/ Proper Bra Sizing � proper measurement of bra size is key in getting the support, lift, and comfort that can add size to your breasts. The time spent on being sized properly is well worth it.

3/ Make-Up � for enhancing your cleavage, consider applying a touch of shimmer or bronzer in between your cleavage to draw the eye to that area and visually add depth.

4/ Cup Enhancers or Silicone Bra Inserts � these cup enhancers can be purchased and applied with double-sided tape to fit snugly in your bra, undetected. Look for ones that are hypoallergenic if you have sensitive skin and are also sweat and waterproof.

5/ Push-Up Padded Bra � consider purchasing a push up bra with padding to achieve a larger appearing cup size and increased cleavage.

6/ Proper fitting shirts � tight fitting clothes do not enhance your bust line or breast appearance. Choose clothes that fit properly and don�t show too much cleavage.

7/ Tape or Moleskin � apply tape or moleskin across the lateral and bottom aspect of the breast to push them together and give them a lift.

8/ Hydration � any skin regimen has to include hydration. The recommended water intake for those with no restrictions includes six to eight glasses a day. This will help keep the skin over your breasts looking and feeling healthy and moisturized.