Menstruation is a natural and essential part of a woman's reproductive health. However, many women experience irregular periods at some point in their lives. Irregular periods can be frustrating and even worrisome, but understanding their causes and learning how to deal with them can provide clarity and peace of mind.In this comprehensive article, we will explore what irregular periods mean, common causes, various strategies to cope with them effectively, and the role of health tracking apps in managing menstrual health.Understanding Irregular PeriodsRegular menstrual cycles typically occur every 21 to 35 days, lasting for around two to seven days. However, when periods deviate from this regular pattern, they are considered irregular. Irregular periods encompass a range of abnormalities, including missed periods, shorter or longer cycles, and unpredictable bleeding patterns. While occasional irregularities are generally harmless, persistent irregular periods may indicate an underlying health issue that requires attention.Causes of Irregular Periods<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Hormonal Imbalances: Fluctuations in hormonal levels, specifically estrogen and progesterone, can disrupt the menstrual cycle. Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and thyroid disorders are often associated with hormonal imbalances. In PCOS, the ovaries produce higher levels of androgens, leading to irregular periods.Stress can also have a significant impact on hormonal balance, often resulting in irregular periods. Managing stress effectively becomes crucial for maintaining optimal menstrual health and promoting regularity in the menstrual cycle.<a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/shop/need/whole-health'>Ginger U offers specialized coaching services</a> that cater to holistic well-being, including a 60-minute stress management session that can help address irregular cycles. Through personalized guidance and practical tools, Ginger U can help you restore hormonal balance, empowering individuals to achieve comprehensive mental, emotional, and physical wellness.In addition, <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/shop/categories/supplements'>Ginger-U’s extensive and high-quality supplements</a> such as Inositol, Maca, and DIM that you can find in our online store, are some of the most well-researched supplements for restoring hormonal balance.</li><li>Stress and Lifestyle Factors: Chronic stress, sudden weight loss or gain, excessive exercise, poor nutrition, and sleep disturbances can all contribute to irregular periods. These factors can disrupt the delicate hormonal balance needed for regular menstruation. Stress triggers the release of cortisol, which can interfere with the production of reproductive hormones.</li><li>Medications and Medical Conditions: Certain medications, such as hormonal contraceptives or anticoagulants, can affect menstrual cycles. Additionally, medical conditions like endometriosis (a condition where uterine tissue grows outside the uterus), uterine fibroids (noncancerous growths in the uterus), pelvic inflammatory disease (PID), and polyps can cause irregular bleeding and affect the menstrual cycle.</li><li>Perimenopause and Menopause: As women approach perimenopause, the transitional phase before menopause, their periods may become irregular. This occurs due to declining hormone levels and is a natural part of the aging process. Menopause is confirmed after 12 consecutive months without a menstrual period.</li></ul>Dealing with Irregular Periods<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Track Your Cycle: Keeping a menstrual calendar or using a period tracking app can help identify patterns and irregularities in your menstrual cycle. It enables you to monitor changes, record symptoms, and provide valuable information for healthcare professionals. By tracking your cycle, you can gain insights into the length of your cycles, the duration and intensity of bleeding, and associated symptoms like bloating or mood changes.</li><li>Consult a Healthcare Professional: If you experience persistent irregular periods or have concerns about your menstrual health, it is important to consult a healthcare professional. They can evaluate your symptoms, perform necessary tests, and provide an accurate diagnosis. Depending on the underlying cause, treatment options may include hormonal therapy, lifestyle adjustments, or addressing specific medical conditions. </li><li>Manage Stress: Stress management techniques play a crucial role in regulating hormonal levels and promoting regular menstruation. Engaging in activities like meditation, yoga, deep breathing exercises, and engaging in hobbies or activities that help you relax can have a positive impact on your menstrual cycle. Prioritizing self-care and finding healthy outlets for stress can help restore hormonal balance.</li><li>Maintain a Healthy Lifestyle: A well-balanced diet rich in nutrients, regular exercise, and sufficient sleep are crucial for overall reproductive health. Adequate hydration and avoiding excessive caffeine and alcohol consumption can also contribute to menstrual regularity. Incorporate whole foods, such as fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins, into your diet. Aim for at least 150 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise per week and ensure you get enough restful sleep. </li><li>Hormonal Birth Control: For some women, hormonal birth control methods, such as birth control pills or intrauterine devices (IUDs), can help regulate and manage irregular periods. These methods work by providing a consistent level of hormones, helping to regulate the menstrual cycle. Consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best contraceptive option for your needs. </li><li>Address Underlying Health Issues: Treating underlying medical conditions that contribute to irregular periods, such as PCOS or thyroid disorders, can help restore regular menstrual cycles. It is essential to work closely with healthcare professionals to identify and manage these conditions effectively. Treatment options may include medication, lifestyle modifications, or other appropriate interventions.</li><li>The Role of Health Tracking Apps: In the digital age, health tracking apps have emerged as valuable <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/app'>tools for managing menstrual health</a>. Apps like Ginger-U offer comprehensive features to track various aspects of women's health, including birth control, periods, menopause, sleep, mood, weight, nutrition, and more. These apps allow users to track their menstrual cycles, record symptoms, receive reminders for medication or contraceptive use, and gain insights into their overall health. Health tracking apps can provide a convenient way to monitor irregular periods, identify patterns, and share data with healthcare professionals for accurate diagnosis and treatment.</li></ul>Final ThoughtsWhile irregular periods can be disruptive and concerning, they are often manageable with the right approach. By understanding the potential causes and implementing lifestyle changes, stress management techniques, and appropriate medical interventions, women can regain control over their menstrual health.Embracing self-care, maintaining a healthy lifestyle, and utilizing health <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/app'>tracking apps like Ginger-U</a> can contribute to achieving regular and balanced menstrual cycles. Remember to consult with healthcare professionals for personalized guidance and support on your journey towards optimal menstrual health. With patience, proactive care, and the aid of technology, women can navigate the challenges of irregular periods and experience improved reproductive well-being.

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It would seem that everything is clear here: the higher the concentration of aromatic components - the more stable the aroma. But not everything is so simple: even if in the laboratory the aroma stays calm for a day or more, in life it is influenced by humidity and temperature, skin condition and the aroma of your body. Therefore, experts advise to apply fragrances on a clean, moisturizing body lotion. But even this does not guarantee that super-concentrated perfumes will last longer than perfumed or eau de toilette. It all depends on the volatility of the ingredients themselves.

Irregular periods can be frustrating and even worrisome, but understanding their causes and learning how to deal with them can provide clarity and peace of mind. In this comprehensive article, we will explore what irregular periods mean, common causes, various strategies to cope with them effectively, and the role of health tracking apps in managing menstrual health.

Irregular Periods – What They Mean & How To Deal With Them

Fruity notes are considered the lightest, but sandalwood and amber - the strongest. This does not mean that fruit flavors should be forgotten. First, they have a good plume, and secondly, history knows many cases where the aroma was much more stable than required by the situation.

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>Menstruation is a natural and essential part of a woman's reproductive health. However, many women experience irregular periods at some point in their lives. Irregular periods ....</div>

About sustainability

Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is a journey that many women embark upon. Alongside a balanced diet and regular exercise, incorporating supplements can provide an extra boost to support weight loss efforts. In this article, we will explore six powerful supplements that are specifically designed to aid women in their weight loss journeys.From regulating hormones to boosting metabolism, promoting restful sleep, and supporting overall wellness, these supplements offer a range of benefits that can enhance your weight loss experience. Let's dive into the wonders of these supplements and discover how they can contribute to your health and well-being.<a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/product/inositol'>Inositol</a>: Enhancing Fertility and Weight ManagementInositol, a naturally occurring sugar, has gained recognition for its potential to improve fertility, regulate menstrual cycles, and alleviate symptoms associated with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). This supplement can also play a role in weight management by regulating blood sugar levels and supporting hormonal balance. Additionally, it aids in maintaining emotional and mental well-being, reducing the risk of type-2 diabetes, and promoting skin health. Inositol offers a comprehensive approach to women's health, making it an essential supplement for those striving for weight loss.Inositol's benefits extend beyond fertility and weight management. Studies have shown that it can improve ovarian function and reduce the symptoms of PCOS, such as irregular periods and excessive hair growth. It has also been found to reduce the risk of gestational diabetes and neural tube defects during pregnancy, making it beneficial for expectant mothers. Furthermore, inositol plays a crucial role in maintaining emotional and mental well-being by alleviating symptoms of depression, anxiety, and mood disorders. By regulating blood sugar levels and supporting hormonal balance, inositol may also reduce the risk of developing type-2 diabetes.<a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/product/dim'>DIM</a>: Hormonal Balance and Overall WellnessDiindolylmethane (DIM) is a phytonutrient found naturally in cruciferous vegetables. This supplement supports hormonal balance by aiding liver function, which helps metabolize estrogen more efficiently. By maintaining estrogen levels, DIM may reduce the risk of estrogen-related cancers, such as breast cancer. Furthermore, DIM is believed to reduce inflammation, improve acne and other skin conditions, and promote weight loss. By incorporating DIM into your weight loss journey, you can achieve hormonal harmony and enhance overall wellness.DIM's benefits for women extend beyond hormonal balance. It supports liver function, enabling the efficient metabolism of estrogen, which is crucial for maintaining hormonal balance. By modulating estrogen levels, DIM may reduce the risk of estrogen-related cancers, including breast cancer. As inflammation is often linked to weight gain and difficulty losing weight, DIM's anti-inflammatory effects may contribute to healthy weight management.<a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/product/slim-by-night'>Slim By Night</a>: Boosting Metabolism and Promoting Restful SleepFor women seeking weight management, a good night's sleep is vital. Slim by Night is a groundbreaking supplement that not only supports weight loss but also promotes restful sleep. By blending ingredients such as white kidney bean, green coffee bean, L-Theanine, L-Carnitine, L-Tryptophan, and conjugated linoleic acid, this supplement boosts metabolism, reduces appetite, and supports mental health. Additionally, our mood and sleep blend featuring ashwagandha root, valerian root, lemon balm, passionflower, 5-HTP, and melatonin helps you attain the rejuvenating sleep necessary for optimal weight loss results. Embrace this unique supplement to transform your weight loss journey into a holistic experience.The powerhouse blend of ingredients in Slim by Night targets multiple aspects of weight loss and overall well-being. White kidney bean and green coffee bean extract work synergistically to boost metabolism and reduce appetite, helping to create a calorie deficit necessary for weight loss. L-Theanine and L-Carnitine contribute to mental health and energy levels, supporting focus and motivation during the weight loss journey.<a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/product/weight-loss-formula'>Weight Loss Formula</a>: Energizing Body and MindElevate your weight loss journey with our Weight Loss Formula supplement, designed to invigorate your energy levels, curb your appetite, and enhance mental focus. With a carefully crafted blend of metabolism-boosting compounds, invigorating nutrients, and focus-enhancing elements, this supplement empowers you to achieve your weight loss goals while optimizing your self-image and performance. Green coffee bean extract, raspberry ketone, garcinia cambogia, caffeine, and green tea are just a few of the ingredients that contribute to fat-burning, increased energy, and appetite control. Fuel your body and mind with this exceptional supplement and unleash your full potential.The Weight Loss Formula combines a variety of ingredients to create a comprehensive approach to weight loss. Green coffee bean extract contains chlorogenic acid, which is believed to help improve blood sugar levels and lower blood pressure. Raspberry ketone is believed to boost metabolism and help burn fat. Garcinia Cambogia is believed to help reduce appetite and promote weight loss. Caffeine and green tea are both natural stimulants believed to help increase energy and mental focus. Together, these ingredients help burn fat, boost energy, and control appetite, providing the necessary tools to achieve weight loss goals.<a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/product/garcina-cambogia'>Garcinia Cambogia</a>: Natural Weight Loss SupportDerived from the fruit of a tree, Garcinia Cambogia has been celebrated for its potential in supporting weight loss. This supplement contains hydroxycitric acid (HCA), known for its ability to suppress appetite, inhibit fat production, and boost metabolism. Additionally, HCA increases serotonin levels, positively impacting mood and sleep. Garcinia Cambogia is also believed to improve cholesterol and blood sugar levels and possess anti-inflammatory properties. By incorporating this powerful supplement into your weight loss regimen, you can tap into its natural wonders and support your fitness goals.Garcinia Cambogia offers a range of benefits beyond weight loss support. The hydroxycitric acid (HCA) found in Garcinia Cambogia is believed to help suppress appetite by increasing serotonin levels in the brain, promoting a feeling of fullness and reducing overeating. HCA also inhibits the enzyme citrate lyase, which is involved in fat production, potentially aiding in weight loss.<a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/product/apple-cider-vinegar'>Apple Cider Vinegar</a>: Tradition and Health in a SupplementApple Cider Vinegar (ACV) has long been cherished for its culinary uses and home remedies. As a supplement, ACV aids weight loss by reducing appetite and slowing down digestion, allowing your body more time to break down food. It is also believed to have antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, reduce cholesterol and blood sugar levels, and promote gut health. While the taste of liquid ACV can be challenging for some, taking it in supplement form allows you to enjoy the benefits without the pungent flavor. Embrace the time-honored secrets of ACV and empower your body with this amazing supplement.ACV's benefits extend beyond weight loss support. This potent elixir is believed to aid weight loss by reducing appetite and slowing digestion, which gives your body more time to break down food. It is also thought to possess antioxidant and antimicrobial properties, supporting overall health. ACV has been associated with reducing cholesterol and blood sugar levels, which are crucial for maintaining cardiovascular health. Additionally, ACV contains beneficial probiotics that promote gut health, contributing to a well-functioning digestive system. By incorporating ACV into your weight loss journey, you can harness the numerous health benefits it offers.Final ThoughtsIncorporating supplements into your weight loss journey can provide valuable support to help you achieve your goals. The supplements discussed in this article, including Inositol, DIM, Slim by Night, Weight Loss Formula, Garcinia Cambogia, and Apple Cider Vinegar, offer unique benefits that cater to various aspects of women's health and weight management. However, it is important to remember that supplements are not a magic solution and should be used in conjunction with a balanced diet and regular exercise.Prior to adding any new supplements to your routine, <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/shop/need/whole-health'>consult with a healthcare professional</a> to ensure they align with your individual needs and goals. Embrace the power of these supplements and embark on your transformative weight loss journey today.

From regulating hormones to boosting metabolism, promoting restful sleep, and supporting overall wellness, these supplements offer a range of benefits that can enhance your weight loss experience. Let's dive into the wonders of these supplements and discover how they can contribute to your health and well-being.

Unleashing the Power of Supplements for Women's Weight Loss

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is a journey that many women embark upon. Alongside a balanced diet and regular exercise, incorporating supplements can provide an extra boost to support weight loss ....</div>

Sex should be fun. Unfortunately, it gets painful for some women. Does this ring a bell with you? If yes, read this blog to understand the possible reasons and get actionable solutions.What Causes Pain During Intercourse for Women?Painful intercourse, also known as dyspareunia, can arise from various factors, as mentioned below.<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>	Endometriosis: Oh, the woes of misplaced tissue! Endometriosis, a condition where the tissue outlining the uterus grows outside of it, can wreak havoc on your sex life. The abnormal tissue can cause pain during intercourse, turning what should be a pleasurable rendezvous into a tyranny of discomfort.</li><li>Insufficient Lubrication: Lack of enough lubrication during sexual activity can be a major buzzkill for pleasurable experiences. Whether it's due to hormonal changes, medications, or simply not getting enough foreplay, a lack of moisture can cause discomfort and dryness.</li><li>	Pelvic Floor Dysfunction: Your pelvic floor muscles, the unsung heroes holding everything together down there, can sometimes go rogue. Weakness or tension in these muscles, often caused by childbirth, age, or even chronic stress, can lead to discomfort or pain during penetration. Think of it as your body's way of saying, “Sorry, no entry allowed!” </li><li>Pelvic Inflammatory Disease (PID): Imagine your pelvis throwing a wild party, but the uninvited guests are nasty bacteria. Pelvic inflammatory disease crashes the party with inflammation and infection in the reproductive organs, resulting in deep pain during sex. It's like having party crashers who bring nothing but trouble and soreness.</li><li>Psychological Factors: The mind is a powerful force that can make or break your bedroom adventures. Stress, anxiety, past trauma, or even negative experiences can dampen your pleasure receptors. Your brain might just hit the panic button, sending pain signals where there shouldn't be any. It's like having an overprotective bouncer at the door, denying entry to all the fun.</li><li>Vaginal Infections: Vaginal infections like bacterial vaginosis or candidiasis can turn your nether regions into a fiery inferno. These unwelcome visitors can bring itching, burning, and pain to your private parts, making intercourse about as unpleasant as a sandpaper massage.</li><li>Vaginismus: Sometimes, your vagina decides to go into lockdown mode, and it's not about to grant access to anyone or anything. Vaginismus is the condition where the vaginal muscles involuntarily contract during penetration, creating a painful and impenetrable barrier. It's like the Fort Knox of the nether regions, complete with armed resistance, making you experience sharp pain during intercourse.</li></ul>How Common Is Painful Sex For Females?The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists states that nearly 3 out of 4 women experience pain during sex at some point in their lives. For some women, it is a temporary issue; for others, it is a chronic or long-term problem.What To Do When Intercourse Is Painful?Follow these tips to relieve vaginal pain during intercourse.<ul><li>Communication is Key: Talk it Out. Communication regarding sex is non-negotiable for a <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/ultimate-guide-to-sexual-health'>healthy sex life</a>. Talk honestly and openly with your partner about any discomfort or pain you experience during intercourse. Sharing your concerns can help both of you find ways to make the experience more enjoyable and pain-free. Remember! Good communication leads to great connections, in and out of the bedroom!</li><li>Let The Lube Slip 'n Slide: Minimal or no lubrication can turn your intimate moments into a friction-filled fiasco. Don't be shy to introduce some lube into the equation. It's like having your own personal pleasure-enhancing magic wand. Whether you opt for silicone- or water-based, a little dab can reduce discomfort and maximize pleasure. </li><li>Take it Slow: Slow and steady wins the pleasure! Rushing into things can increase the likelihood of pain during sex. So, take your time, enjoy the journey, and let the anticipation build. Consider it a slow-motion movie where every moment is savored, and pleasure is the ultimate prize. </li><li>Foreplay Frenzy: Foreplay is like a pre-game warm-up that gets athletes ready for action. Therefore, a long foreplay can do wonders for reducing pain during intercourse. Think of it as the opening act that sets the stage for a great performance. Engage in passionate kissing, sensual touch, and explore each other's erogenous zones. Let the excitement build and watch how pleasure takes center stage while pain takes a backseat. </li><li>Change Positions: Experiment with different angles and movements to find positions that are more comfortable for you. Get creative, try new things, and don't be afraid to mix it up. There's a position out there for everyone – find the one that makes you say, “Ahhh, that's the spot!” </li><li>Breathe and Relax: Sometimes, tension and anxiety exacerbate coital pain. So, take a deep breath, and relax those muscles before embracing the Zen of pleasure. Incorporate relaxation techniques like deep breathing, mindfulness, or even a soothing massage before getting down to business. A calm body leads to a more blissful experience!</li><li>Get techy with mobile <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/app'>health apps like Ginger-U,</a> which are specifically designed to help you track and manage pain during sex. Tracking enables you to understand trends and discover remedial strategies, including tips like this blog. Download the app now and consider health coaching by our expert women coaches to start your journey to better sex!</li></ul>Bottom LineDyspareunia or painful sexual penetration is a common condition resulting from scant lubrication, psychological factors, and sexual health problems such as <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/five-signs-you-might-have-endometriosis'>endometriosis</a> and pelvic inflammatory disease. Consult your health care provider if intercourse-induced pain is adversely affecting your sex life.

Learn about the causes of pain during sex in women and how to relieve vaginal pain during intercourse in this blog.

What Women Need to Know About Pain During Sex?

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>Sex should be fun. Unfortunately, it gets painful for some women. Does this ring a bell with you? If yes, read this blog to understand the possible reasons and get ....</div>

Common Causes of Painful Intercourse and How to Address Them

The <a href='https://www.cdc.gov/nchs/pressroom/sosmap/cesarean_births/cesareans.htm' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>latest data from the Center For Disease Prevention And Control</a> has reported that approximately 27% live births are caesarean deliveries in the USA. It means more than one-fourth women in America give birth through incisions made in abdomen and uterus. Sounds painful and scary. However, the truth is something else. Depending on their medical circumstances, a c-section or cesarean section can be a better option for some women. There are various reasons why a c-section might be recommended or preferred over a vaginal birth.For example, a c-section might be necessary if the fetus is in a breech position, meaning they are not head-down in the birth canal. In this case, a c-section can help ensure safer delivery for the baby and the mother. Similarly, suppose a woman has certain medical conditions, such as high blood pressure, preeclampsia, and other complications; a c-section may be recommended to minimize the risks associated with vaginal delivery.Additionally, some women may choose to have a c-section if they have had difficult or traumatic vaginal deliveries earlier or if they prefer a planned delivery rather than waiting for labor to begin. In these cases, a c-section allows mothers to feel reassured with a greater sense of agency during delivery.However, c-sections, like any medical procedure, also carry risks and potential complications. As with any medical decision, women need to discuss their circumstances and preferences with their healthcare provider to make the best choice for their health and well-being.What To Expect After A C-Section?The journey of a mother after a c-section can be physically and emotionally intense. After the surgery, the mother is moved to a recovery area where she will be monitored closely by the medical staff. She will typically stay in the hospital for a few days to ensure that she is healing properly and that she and the baby are healthy. The incision wound typically takes about six weeks to heal completely. During this time, the mother may experience discomfort, tenderness, and swelling around the incision site, making it difficult to move around and perform routine tasks. Her healthcare provider will monitor the incision site to check for signs of infection or other complications.For the first few days, she may experience post-operative fatigue and difficulty performing everyday activities, such as getting out of bed or picking up the baby. Therefore, she will need to take pain medication and be cautious when moving around to avoid discomfort. Ample rest and optimum nutrition are the keys to healing during the early days after surgery.Breastfeeding is also an important aspect of recovery after a c-section. Although it may be challenging in the first few days, it can help speed up recovery and provide a sense of bonding between the mother and the newborn.In addition to these physical aspects, there can be emotional challenges associated with c-section recovery. For example, the mother may experience postpartum depression or anxiety. Communication with healthcare providers and loved ones to receive emotional support may significantly help ease mental distress after a C-section.How Long Does It Take For A Cesarean To Heal Internally?“Healing internally” after a caesarean delivery typically refers to the body's natural process of repairing the incision site and any tissue damage that may have occurred during the surgery. It includes healing the uterus, abdominal muscles, and other tissues that were cut or stretched during the procedure. The internal healing after a c-section is critical to ensure the proper function of the affected organs and tissues, and to lower the infection risk and other complications. Besides, it also includes feeling better emotionally with experiencing the joys of motherhood. Here’s a table showing week-by-week recovery after a c-section procedure. <table><tr><th>Week</th><th>Physical Recovery</th><th>Emotional Recovery</th></tr><tr><td>1</td><td>Pain and discomfort at incision site, limited mobility and activity</td><td>Feelings of tiredness, being overwhelmed or anxious</td></tr><tr><td>2</td><td>Reduced pain and discomfort, can start light walking and stretching</td><td>Mood swings, worry about scar appearance</td></tr><tr><td>3</td><td>Incision site begins to heal and scab over, gradually increasing activity level</td><td>Frustration over inability to perform daily tasks, difficulty sleeping</td></tr><tr> <td>4</td><td>4	Incision site starts to feel less tender, can resume light exercise</td><td>Adjustment to new routines and responsibilities, feelings of isolation</td></tr><tr><td>5</td><td>Scar tissue continues to heal and fade, can start moderate exercise</td><td>Increased confidence and sense of control, but may still experience emotional ups and downs</td></tr><tr> <td>6+</td><td>Full recovery of incision site, can resume normal activities and exercise routine</td><td>Continued need for self-care and emotional support, but overall sense of progress and achievement</td></tr></table>Note that recovery timelines can vary depending on individual circumstances and medical advice, and this chart is intended as a general guide only. New mothers should stay in touch with their healthcare provider and follow the recovery plan.What Helps C-section Heal Faster?While rest and patience are essential during recovery, medical and home remedies can help speed up healing and promote a smoother recovery. See the table below for some of the most effective tips for fast recovery after a c-section delivery.<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Pain medication: The healthcare provider will prescribe pain medication to manage pain and discomfort after the surgery. Taking the medication as directed is essential to ensure adequate pain relief.</li><li>Antibiotics: Antibiotics may be prescribed to prevent post-surgery infection. Complete the antibiotics course as the healthcare provider prescribes. </li><li>Compression garments: The healthcare provider may recommend wearing compression garments to reduce swelling and discomfort.</li><li>Early ambulation to prevent blood clots: After the surgery, starting to move around as early as possible helps prevent complications and speeds up healing.</li><li>Physical therapy: After the incision has healed, physical therapy may be recommended to strengthen the abdominal muscles, reduce pain and stiffness, and improve mobility.</li><li>Proper nutrition: Eating a healthy, balanced diet with plenty of protein, vitamins, and minerals can aid healing. Stay hydrated and avoid processed foods and sugary drinks. Hero Tip: Consider using a mobile health app for women to remember taking medicines on time, follow meal timings, and tracking sleep.</li></ul>In addition, the following home remedies for c-section recovery may also help.<ul><li>Engaging in relaxation techniques, such as meditation, journaling, or yoga</li><li>Applying heat or cold packs to the incision site to relieve pain and inflammation</li><li>Taking <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/shop/categories/supplements'>supplements with anti-inflammatory and immune system benefits</a> to support healing</li><li>Wearing loose and comfortable clothing to avoid irritation to the incision site</li><li>Paying attention to proper bra and nipple care to prevent infection and promote healing</li><li>	Getting adequate rest and sleep</li></ul>TakeawayA c-section (or cesarean section) procedure is a safe and a necessary option for delivering a baby in some cases. However, one should realize that the recovery process can take a toll physically and emotionally. Therefore, taking care of oneself by following medical and home remedies to promote faster healing and minimize discomfort is crucial. In addition, a <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/app'>Ginger-U’s women’s whole health app</a> can be a great tool to track and support your recovery.

Women may take longer to recover from a cesarean delivery, or C-section but taking care of oneself through medical and home remedies can help heal faster.

Tips for Quick Recovery After a C-Section

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>The latest data from the Center For Disease Prevention And Control has reported that approximately 27% live births are caesarean deliveries in the USA. It means more than one-fourth women in America give birth ....</div>

Tips for Speeding Up Recovery After a C-Section

When it comes to learning or fine-tuning skills, hiring a coach is one of the top-of-mind ideas. Then, why not consider hiring a health coach to refine the skill of living healthier, happier? You may say –“but I am somehow managing things. Why do I need external support?” Well! Because there’s a difference between existing, surviving, and living well. So, ask yourself, are you living life to the fullest by properly managing your health well-being? If the faint voice inside you says no, it can be helpful to work with a health coach. Need more reasons to make a decision? Continue reading this blog.Is Health Coaching Necessary?Is it necessary? No. It is effective, yes. While traditional psychology has long focused on identifying what's “wrong” with individuals and what needs to be “fixed,” coaching takes a different approach. Instead of dwelling on problems, coaches at Ginger-U empower individuals to define goals, develop a plan and navigate the journey. As a result, working with them get the support and accountability you need to address health and wellness issues that are holding you back and achieve meaningful, lasting changes for the better. But does coaching work? As reported by a <a href='https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6125027/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>study</a>, the answer is a resounding “yes.” Studies have shown that coaching can significantly improve various health markers, from blood pressure and cholesterol levels to glucose levels and body weight. Coaching has also been shown to improve quality of life and reduce hospital admissions for patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). Another <a href='https://journals.plos.org/plosone/article?id=10.1371/journal.pone.0161269' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>study</a> published in 2020 highlighted that telephone-based health coaching may help lower the rate of hospital admission in specific patient groups and may also reduce mortality in patients with chronic somatic conditions. Coming to online health coaching, a <a href='https://www.mdpi.com/1660-4601/17/16/5930' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>review study</a> published in 2020 underlined increase in physical activity when working with a virtual coach. Further, technology-driven health coaching has resulted in positive health outcomes for patients with moderate to severe chronic diseases. In addition, virtual coaches may help facilitate effective learning of new skills such as health literacy and self-management. Given these promising results, it's clear that health coaching is a valuable addition in life to promote one’s well-being. Schedule a session now to meet the better version of yourself! Why wait?Why Is Health Coaching Important for Women?Look, let's be honest here. When it comes to health and wellness, women are often the ones to lag in taking care of themselves. This is because they are usually expected to fulfill societal expectations, which include acting a certain way, thinking a certain way, looking a certain way, and so on. It's not fair; it also negatively affects their well-being sooner or later. In such a scenario, a <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/shop/need/whole-health'>women's wellness coach</a> may help make a woman's life easier. It's a reliable way to take control of one’s health and well-being on one’s own terms.The health coaches at Ginger-U are women, which facilitates their understanding of women’s unique health concerns and challenges. They follow a solution-oriented approach and help women navigate the complexities of their health and provide them with the perspectives, strategies, and tools to achieve their wellness goals. Book an appointment with Ginger-U’s expert health coaches today.Things To Know Before Picking A Health CoachHere’s what you should know before selecting a health coach in the USA.<ul><li>Look for credentials: Make sure your coach has the proper training and certifications for health coaching. At Ginger-U, we have already done this for you.</li><li>Clarify expectations: Discuss your goals and expectations with your coach and make sure your goals are realistic and achievable.</li><li>Understand your coach: Every coach has her approach and philosophy, so make sure it aligns with your beliefs and values.</li><li>Listen to your gut feeling: If something doesn't feel right, trust your instincts and find a coach who makes you feel comfortable and supported. </li><li>Commit to the process: Coaching is collaborative and requires commitment and effort from both the client and the coach.</li><li>Be open to change: The goal of coaching is to help you make positive changes, so be open to trying new things and adjusting to your lifestyle.</li><li>	Discuss logistics: Find out how often you will meet with your coach, what methods of communication are available, and how much it will cost. Don’t forget to read the refund and cancellation policies. Ginger-U makes these topics clear on its website.</li></ul>Why Choose Ginger-U For Women’s Health And Wellness Coaching?Ginger-U’s health and wellness coaching for women is based on two concepts, namely, HOPE and CARE. HOPE stands for Health Optimization and Personal Empowerment whereas CARE means Comprehensive Assistance and Reliable Expertise. When you choose to work with a health coach at Ginger-U, you sign up for the following benefits:<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Accountability: Our health coaches help you stay accountable to your health goals by providing regular check-ins, feedback, and support.</li><li>Personalized guidance: They create customized wellness plans tailored to your unique needs and preferences.</li><li>Motivation: Sometimes, a little push is all we need to stay on track with our health goals. Coaches at Ginger-U offer encouragement and help you stay motivated throughout your wellness journey.</li><li>Holistic approach: Our health coaching focuses on the whole person, not just isolated symptoms or conditions. This means that you receive support for all aspects of your health, from nutrition and exercise to stress management and self-care.</li><li>Goal setting: Our coaches help you set achievable and measurable health goals that lead to long-term behavior change.</li><li>Expert knowledge: Ginger-U’s health coaches are trained in health and wellness. They offer impactful perspectives and guidance to women looking to improve their health.</li><li>Stress reduction: Our choaches provide strategies for reducing stress and improving mental health, which is particularly important for women who often juggle multiple responsibilities and roles.</li><li>Sustainable lifestyle changes: Our health coaching emphasizes sustainable changes to your lifestyle that can be maintained over the long run, rather than quick fixes or fad diets.</li><li>Results: Health coaching effectively improves various health outcomes, from weight loss and blood pressure to stress reduction and quality of life. By working with a health coach at Ginger-U, you increase the chances of achieving your health goals and living a healthier, happier life. </li></ul>Amidst wearing many hats and managing multiple tasks, including work, family, and caregiving, health coaching will enable you to be at the forefront of your health and well-being through personalized guidance and support. So, don’t delay and seize the day! Connect with a Ginger-U health coach now.

A health coach can help you make the correct decisions and start enjoying your life by guiding you in the right way. Learn the top reasons to hire a wellness coach in the USA.

Top Reasons to Hire a Women Health Coach

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>When it comes to learning or fine-tuning skills, hiring a coach is one of the top-of-mind ideas. Then, why not consider hiring a health coach to refine the skill of living healthier ....</div>

Is It Effective To Hire A Health Coach?

Let’s start with a riddle.I'm hidden deep within your core, A vital part you can't ignore. Some say I'm your “second brain,” And without me, you'd feel the pain.I'm home to trillions of tiny friends, Who help your digestion to no end. Fruits and veggies are what I crave, So keep them close, don't be a knave.But if you fill me up with junk, I'll make you feel like you're in a funk. Bloating, gas, and all that strife, Will be the bane of your daily life.So listen up and treat me well, For with good care, I'll never tell The secrets of your inner health, And keep you feeling great and stealth.What am I?Can you guess the answer? Yes, spot on! It is about your gut aka the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It is a long tube-like structure that runs from the mouth to the anus. The GI tract is a part of the digestive system, which metabolizes food so that the body can absorb nutrients and energy.The gut comprises different parts, including the stomach and the small and large intestines. The GI tract is home to trillions of microorganisms that constitute the gut microbiome. These microorganisms help break food down and support the immune system. A healthy gut microbiome is crucial for maintaining good overall health.What Is Gut Health?Gut health refers to the proper functioning of the digestive system, which involves the breakdown of food and nutrition absorption. Good gut health is essential for proper digestion and food absorption, waste elimination, and overall well-being.A gastroenterologist may explain gut health by discussing the role of gut microbiota, the microorganisms living in the gut. These microorganisms are crucial in maintaining gut health by aiding digestion, producing essential vitamins, and keeping harmful bacteria at bay.Why Gut Health Matters For Women?The health of our gut may not be something we often think about, but it turns out that it has a major impact on many aspects of women's health. So, let's examine how the gut microbiome—the bacteria, fungi, and other microbes in our digestive tract—affects different areas of women's health:<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Digestive Health: The most obvious impact of gut health is on digestive health. The gut microflora helps break down food, absorb nutrients, and regulate bowel movements. Imbalances in gut bacteria can lead to constipation, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome (IBS), and other digestive issues.</li><li>Immunity: The gut microbiome is closely linked to the immune system, with certain types of bacteria resulting in promoting immune function. <a href='https://www.uclahealth.org/news/want-to-boost-immunity-look-to-the-gut' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Up to 70% of our immune cells are in the gut</a>, so maintaining a healthy microbiome is essential for overall immune health.</li><li>Skin: The health of our gut can also impact the health of our skin. Studies have shown that <a href='https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7916842/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>certain gut bacteria may play a part in skin conditions like acne and eczema</a> and that consuming probiotics or prebiotics may help to improve skin health.</li><li>Hormonal health: The gut microbiome is reported to be involved in the production and metabolism of hormones like estrogen, which can have a major effect on women's health. For example, changes in gut bacteria during menopause may contribute to hormonal imbalances that can lead to health issues like osteoporosis and cardiovascular disease.</li><li>Menstruation: While research in this area is still relatively new, some evidence suggests that the gut flora may be involved in regulating menstrual cycles and symptoms like bloating and cramping.</li><li>Menopause: As women go through menopause, changes in hormone levels can have a major impact on the gut microbiome. For example, one <a href='https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC8268108/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>study</a> found that menopausal women who consumed a high-fat diet had a less diverse gut microbiome, possibly contributing to health issues like obesity and cardiovascular disease.</li><li>Fertility: The gut microbiome can also impact fertility. A diverse gut microbiome has been shown to increase the chances of conception and healthy pregnancy. On the other hand, imbalances in gut bacteria have been linked to conditions like endometriosis and recurrent miscarriage.</li><li>PCOS/PCOD: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and polycystic ovary disease (PCOD) are caused by hormonal imbalances. Recent studies have shown that the gut microbiome may affect the development and progression of these conditions, with some researchers proposing that gut bacteria may be a factor in the production of hormones like testosterone.</li><li>Pregnancy: The gut microbiome may influence various aspects of pregnancy, including fetal development, immune function, and even the risk of preterm birth. Some studies have underlined that consuming probiotics during pregnancy may help to reduce the risk of complications like gestational diabetes and preeclampsia.</li><li>Mental health: Some studies have highlighted that the gut microbiome may regulate the body's stress response and production of neurotransmitters like serotonin and dopamine. Imbalances in the gut microbes have been linked to conditions like depression and anxiety.</li><li>Cognitive Health: Are you thinking how are gut and brain connected? Connected? Here’s your answer. The gut microbiome has been detected to play a vital role in regulating cognitive function and emotional well-being. It may affect women's cognitive functions, including memory, attention, and decision-making. Research has shown that women with certain gut disorders, such as <a href='https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9014245/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>GERD</a> and <a href='https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4692018/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>IBS</a>, have an increased risk of experiencing symptoms of cognitive impairment.</li><li>Cardiovascular Health: Research has shown that the gut microbiome can influence cardiovascular health by regulating cholesterol levels and inflammation. A balanced gut microbiome can help lower cholesterol levels, reducing the risk of heart disease. Additionally, imbalances in gut bacteria have been associated with inflammation, which can also lead to heart disease.</li><li>Weight Management: The gut microbiome plays a crucial role in weight management by regulating metabolism and nutrient absorption. Studies have shown that a diverse gut microbiome is associated with a healthy weight, while imbalances in gut bacteria can contribute to obesity and other metabolic disorders.</li><li>Breast cancer: Studies have suggested that certain gut bacteria may play a role in either promoting or preventing breast cancer. For instance, a recent study found that women with breast cancer tended to have lower levels of a type of bacteria called Lactobacillus, which is believed to have anti-inflammatory properties.</li><li>Cervical cancer: Similar to breast cancer, evidence suggests that the composition of the gut microbiome may be linked to cervical cancer risk. Studies have found that women with cervical cancer may have lower Lactobacillus bacteria levels, which may impede protection against abnormal cell growth.</li><li>Ovarian cancer: Recent research has identified a potential link between the gut microbiome and ovarian cancer. Some <a href='https://molmed.biomedcentral.com/articles/10.1186/s10020-021-00295-2' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>studies</a> have found that women with ovarian cancer have higher levels of a type of bacteria called Fusobacterium, which is associated with inflammation and may contribute to the growth of cancer cells.</li></ul>The gut microbiome significantly impacts various aspects of women's health. From digestive health to mental health and everything in between, gut bacteria imbalances can lead to various health issues. Although more research is needed to fully understand the complex relationship between the gut microbiome and women's health, it is clear that maintaining a healthy gut microbiome is essential for overall wellness.What Are The Ways To Improve Your Gut Health?<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Eat a diverse range of plant-based foods: Vegetables, fruits, whole grains, nuts, seeds, and legumes are among the best foods for gut health and digestion diversity of your gut microbiome. This is important because a more diverse microbiome has been associated with better health outcomes.</li><li>Take fermented foods: Consuming fermented foods can help replenish and diversify the gut microbiome. The live bacteria in fermented foods like yogurt, kefir, kimchi, sauerkraut, and miso do the magic. Choose options with minimal added sugars and additives.</li><li>Avoid processed and sugary foods: These foods can throw the good bacteria off-balance and lead to inflammation and other adverse health effects. Therefore, limit your intake of highly processed and sugary foods as much as possible.</li><li>Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water daily helps support healthy digestion and regular bowel movements, which are essential for maintaining a healthy gut.</li><li>Manage stress: Chronic stress can negatively impact the gut microbiome, so stress-relieving practices (such as meditation, yoga, or deep breathing exercises) can help improve gut health.</li><li>Get enough sleep: Adequate sleep is non-negotiable for many aspects of good health, including gut health. Studies have demonstrated that sleep deprivation is one of the causes of imbalances in the gut microbiome.</li><li>Regular exercise has been shown to positively affect gut health by lowering inflammation and increasing the diversity of the gut microbiome. Try to exercise at least 30 minutes 4-6 times a week. </li><li>Consider taking probiotics or prebiotics: <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/product/probiotics'>Probiotics</a> are live bacteria that can help microflora gain good bacteria back. Alternatively, prebiotics are non-digestible fibers that help good bacteria thrive in your gut. Discuss with your doctor or a certified nutritionist to see if these supplements suit you. See the tables below to know the superfoods for gut health.</li></ul>Table 1: Prebiotics and their food sources<table><tr><th>Prebiotic</th><th>Food Sources</th></tr><tr><td>Inulin</td><td>Artichokes, garlic, onions, leeks, asparagus, bananas, chicory root</td></tr><tr><td>Fructooligosaccharides (FOS)</td><td>Jerusalem artichokes, bananas, onions, garlic, asparagus, barley, wheat, tomatoes, chicory root</td></tr><tr><td>Resistant starch</td><td>Cooked and cooled potatoes, green bananas, oats, beans, lentils, barley, rice</td></tr><tr><td>Galactooligosaccharides (GOS)</td><td>Legumes, beans, lentils, chickpeas, peas</td></tr></table>Table 2: Probiotics and their food sources<table><tr><th>Probiotics</th><th>Food Sources</th></tr><tr><td>Lactobacillus acidophilus</td><td>Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kimchi, tempeh, miso, sourdough</td></tr><tr><td>Lactobacillus rhamnosus</td><td>Kefir, kimchi, miso, yogurt, sauerkraut, tempeh, sourdough</td></tr><tr><td>Bifidobacterium bifidum</td><td>Kefir, kombucha, miso, tempeh, yogurt</td></tr><tr><td>Lactobacillus plantarum</td><td>Kimchi, sauerkraut, pickles, sourdough bread</td></tr><tr><td>Saccharomyces boulardii</td><td>Kombucha, sourdough bread, fermented vegetables</td></tr><tr><td>Streptococcus thermophilus</td><td>Streptococcus thermophilus	Cheese, kefir, yogurt, sourdough bread</td></tr></table> The tips above can help improve your gut health and reduce your risk of various health conditions. However, consult with a healthcare professional before changing your diet or lifestyle.TakeawayGut health is crucial for maintaining proper digestion, food absorption, waste elimination, and overall well-being. A healthy gut microflora is essential for maintaining women's overall health as it is closely linked to hormonal health, menstrual cycles, menopause, fertility, mental health, cognitive health, cardiovascular health, weight management, the immune system, skin health, and even breast and cervical cancer. Therefore, keeping a diverse gut microbiome by consuming best diet for digestive health, prebiotics, and probiotics is essential to reduce the risk of health issues.

Gut-healthy foods can make an impact on women's overall health. Find out what foods are best to boost both gut and overall health.

Best Gut Health Foods for Women

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>Can you guess the answer? Yes, spot on! It is about your gut aka the gastrointestinal (GI) tract. It is a long tube-like structure that runs from the mouth to the anus. The GI tract is a part of the digestive ....</div>

What Are The Foods Good For Gut Health?

What Is Precum?Precum, also known as pre-ejaculate or Cowper's fluid, is a clear, viscous fluid released from the penis during sexual arousal before ejaculation. It is produced by the <a href='https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/15811067/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Cowper's glands</a>, which are located near the base of the penis. Precum is a normal part of sexual arousal and can occur even without ejaculation. It is not harmful and can help lubricate the penis.What Is The Role Of Precum?Precum serves several functions during sexual activity:<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Lubrication: Precum helps lubricate the urethra and the head of the penis, making it easier for the penis to enter the vagina or anus during sexual intercourse. It facilitates pleasure for both partners and reduces discomfort or pain.</li><li>Neutralizing acidity: The urethra has an acidic environment, which can harm sperm. Precum is believed to help neutralize this acidity, making it more hospitable for sperm to survive.</li><li>Cleaning: Precum may help flush out any urine or other substances in the urethra before ejaculation, helping reduce the risk of infection or irritation.</li><li>Sexual arousal: Precum production is closely linked to sexual arousal and desire. It is produced in response to sexual stimuli, such as touch, sight, or smell.</li></ul>What Is The Difference Between Precum And Semen?The differences between precum and semen are based on their chemical properties, physical properties, and timing. See the table below for details.<table><tr><th>Characteristics</th><th>Precum</th><th>Semen</th></tr><tr><td>Production</td><td>Produced by the Cowper's gland</td><td>Ejaculated from the penis during orgasm</td></tr><tr><td>Composition</td><td>Contains mucus, enzymes, and proteins, but rarely any sperm</td><td>Contains sperm and seminal fluid, which is produced by the prostate gland, seminal vesicles, and bulbourethral gland</td></tr><tr><td>Color</td><td>Clear, colorless</td><td>Milky white or yellowish</td></tr><tr> <td>Amount</td><td>Produced in small amounts</td><td>Ejaculated in larger quantities</td></tr><tr><td>Timing</td><td>Excreted from the urethra during sexual arousal and before ejaculation</td><td>Ejaculated during orgasm</td></tr><tr> <td>Function</td><td>Lubrication, acid neutralization, cleaning, and sexual arousal</td><td>Reproduction and sexual pleasure</td></tr></table> What Are The Chances Of Precum Pregnancy?So, here comes the real question! Can you get pregnant without having sex? Is precum potent enough to fertilize an egg? Let's find out.A <a href='https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/27266214/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>study conducted in 2016</a> found that almost 17% of the participants had detectable amounts of mobile sperm in their pre-ejaculate fluid. The success rate of the pull-out or withdrawal method ranges between 78%-80%, which indicates that exposure to precum before the penis is withdrawn from the vagina before ejaculation may pose a pregnancy risk. Going by what the experts say, semen usually contains more than 40 million motile sperm, while pre-ejaculate fluid usually has fewer than 5 million sperm or no sperm, <a href='https://www.parents.com/getting-pregnant/chances-of-getting-pregnant-from-precum/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>informs Dr. T. Mike Hsieh</a>, a renowned urologist. Therefore, it is safe to conclude that one must account for the odds of getting pregnant from precum.What Are The Factors That Affect The Likelihood Of Pregnancy From Precum?The likelihood of pregnancy from precum varies depending on the stage of the monthly cycle and the use of birth control. For example, the chance of a precum pregnancy is higher around ovulation, especially if a person is not using a reliable birth control method or using them incorrectly. To provide some clarity, here's the information on the likelihood of pregnancy after exposure to precum at various stages of the monthly cycle.<ul><li>Three days before ovulation: Fertility peaks three days before and until the day of ovulation. It is advisable to avoid exposure to precum at this time to limit the chances of pregnancy. </li><li>While ovulating: The survival span of sperm in the female reproductive tract is 3-5 days, which means that unprotected sex up to 5 days before ovulation may cause pregnancy. After ovulation, the egg has a lifespan of around 12-24 hours, lowering the odds of pregnancy from precum as time passes. However, pregnancy can still occur even if exposure to precum occurs at the start of ovulation, so using reliable methods of birth control to prevent unintended pregnancy is essential. You may also consider a women's health app to track ovulation, and the fertility window is an effective way to avoid sex on high-fertility days.</li><li>During a period: The possibility of pregnancy during menstruation is low, but a woman can conceive at any time in the cycle if birth control use is missing. It may make the sperm, which may be present in the precum, travel through a woman's reproductive tract and bring about conception.</li><li>While using birth control: The method of birth control and its usage certainly influence the probability of pregnancy after exposure to precum. For example, the likelihood of pregnancy when relying on a condom for men is 18%, while it is 21% when relying on a condom for women, which can be more difficult to use. It means pregnancy from pre-ejaculate is likely for people who rely on condoms, particularly those who start using a condom after the sexual act has begun.</li><li>With an IUD: Pregnancy within one year of IUD insertion is less than 1%, making the chance of getting pregnant from precum very low. However, the effectiveness of IUDs over time depends on their types and timing. Consult your healthcare provider to know when it is time to replace IUD.</li><li>After a vasectomy: Following a vasectomy, the chances of pregnancy are generally low, with less than 1 in 100 women becoming pregnant within the first year after surgery. The risk of pregnancy from precum is even lower. However, pregnancy prospects are not absent in the weeks following the procedure. Individuals should continue using birth control until a sperm analysis confirms that semen has no sperms, which usually happens within 16 weeks after vasectomy. </li><li>After childbirth: Some people may think that breastfeeding alone can prevent pregnancy, but that's not always the case. While breastfeeding can reduce the likelihood of pregnancy, it's not a birth control method. About 2% of women who exclusively breastfeed for up to 6 months and before their first post-pregnancy period may still become pregnant. The reason is that ovulation can occur before the first period; it can be difficult to predict when it will happen. Therefore, <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/never-miss-a-pill'>stick to using birth control</a> to avoid unintended pregnancy.</li></ul>How to Reduce the Risk of Pregnancy from Precum?A <a href='https://www.ajol.info/index.php/ijmbr/article/view/102501' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>study</a> published in the International Journal of Medicine and Biomedical Research underlines that precum is unlikely to contain sperm. However, that sperm may be present in the urethra, so experts recommend urinating before sex when using the withdrawal method to clear the area. But let's face it, timing withdrawal can be a real challenge, and sometimes even the most cautious and strong-willed men may be unable to pull out in time. That's why using birth control is your best option. But, whether through a prescription from your healthcare provider or a trusty condom, it's always better to err on the side of caution. While the chances of sperm being present in precum are relatively low, remember that precum can still transmit sexually transmitted infections, which is never a laughing matter. So, if you've had unprotected sex and are concerned about the risk of getting pregnant from precum, use any emergency contraceptive following the instructions on the pack. If you're looking for a longer-term birth control solution, consider getting a copper coil from a trained healthcare professional. So, there you have it folks, some helpful tips to remember when it comes to navigating the world of precum and emergency contraception.

Many women questions if pre-ejaculation might lead to pregnancy. Read this blog to find out whether it is possible or not.

Can You Get Pregnant From Precum?

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>Precum, also known as pre-ejaculate or Cowper's fluid, is a clear, viscous fluid released from the penis during sexual arousal before ejaculation. It is produced ....</div>

Is There A Pregnancy Risk From Precum?

The <a href='https:www.texasheart.orgheart-healthheart-information-center	opicswomen-and-heart-disease' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Texas Heart Institute reports</a> that women are more susceptible to cardiovascular diseases than men. It causes more than 40% of deaths of women in America. However, it is often underestimated because <a href='https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC3018605/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>cardiovascular disease symptomizes 7-10 years later in women</a> than in men. But, it has emerged as one of the primary causes of death in women aged 65 and above. So, what leads to more incidents of heart attacks in older women, and can it be prevented? Let's learn more.What Is A Heart Attack? A heart attack, also called myocardial infarction, occurs when the blood flow to any part of the heart is obstructed, usually by a blood clot. The heart muscle then becomes starved of oxygen and begins to die, which can cause severe and sometimes permanent damage to the heart.Are Heart Attack And Cardiac Arrest the Same?No, a heart attack and a cardiac arrest are not the same. While both conditions are related to the heart, they are different in terms of their causes, symptoms, and treatments. A heart attack eventuates when a blockage in one of the coronary arteries interrupts blood flow to the heart muscle. This can lead to damage or death of the heart muscle cells. Symptoms of a heart attack can include shortness of breath, chest pain, sweating, nausea, and pain or discomfort in other areas of the body, such as the arms, neck, or jaw.Alternatively, cardiac arrest occurs when the heart abruptly stops beating, usually due to an electrical glitch in the heart. It can cause a person to collapse and lose consciousness within seconds. Symptoms of cardiac arrest can include sudden loss of consciousness, absence of breathing or pulse, and potentially death if not treated immediately. While a heart attack can lead to cardiac arrest, the two conditions are distinct and require different treatments. If you or someone around you experiences a heart attack or cardiac arrest symptoms, seek medical attention immediately.What Causes Heart Attack In Older Women? Some of the common causes of a heart attack in older women include:<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Coronary artery disease: It is the leading cause of heart attacks in men and women. Blood flow to the heart muscle gets hindered when any blockage or shrinkage in the arteries interferes with the blood supply to the heart, causing coronary artery disease. Age is one of the primary risk factors for this problem, particularly after menopause.</li><li>Menopause: Cessation of monthly cycles can increase the risk of a heart attack in older women. This is because, during menopause, a woman's body experiences changes in hormone levels, particularly a decrease in estrogen. Estrogen is known to have a protective effect on the cardiovascular system, and its decline may aggravate the risk factors for heart disease. Women who experience early menopause, i.e., before age 45, may be at increased risk of heart attacks compared to women who experience menopause later. In addition, women with surgical menopause, where the ovaries are removed, may also have a higher risk of heart disease.</li><li>	High blood pressure: High blood pressure distresses the heart and may damage the blood vessels that supply blood to the heart muscle. Over time, it can lead to coronary artery disease and an increased risk of a heart attack.</li><li>High cholesterol: High LDL (low-density lipoprotein) cholesterol, also known as 'bad' cholesterol, can cause plaque build-up in the arteries, raising the risk of a heart attack.</li><li>Diabetes: Women with diabetes are more prone to heart attacks than those without diabetes. High blood sugar levels can impair blood vessels, contributing to plaque build-up in the arteries.</li><li>Obesity: The risk of heart attack is higher in women who are overweight or obese, especially if the excess weight is around the waist.</li><li>Family history: The chances of a heart attack are more in women with a family history of heart disease.</li><li>	Smoking: Smoking is a notable risk factor for heart attack. The likelihood of heart attack is higher in women who smoke than in those who do not.</li><li>	Physical inactivity: A sedentary lifestyle can contribute to the development of heart attack risk factors such as obesity, high cholesterol, and high blood pressure, all of which add to the risk of a heart attack.</li></ul>What Are The Symptoms Of Heart Attack In Women?Heart attack symptoms in older women may differ from those experienced by men or younger women. Some commonly reported symptoms of a heart attack in older women include:<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>	Chest pain or discomfort: It is often the first heart attack symptom. The pain may be felt as fullness, pain, pressure, and squeezing sensation in the center of the chest. It may last for several minutes or recur.</li><li>Shortness of breath: Difficulty breathing or huffing and puffing can also indicate a heart attack. It may occur with or without chest discomfort.</li><li>Nausea or vomiting: Feeling sick to your stomach, vomiting, or feeling dizzy may also be symptoms of a heart attack.</li><li>Pain or discomfort in the neck, jaw, or back: Women may also experience pain or discomfort in areas such as the neck, jaw, or back.</li><li>Fatigue: Exhaustion, even when you haven't been physically active, can be a sign of a heart attack.</li><li>Sweating: Experiencing sudden cold sweats or feeling clammy can be heart attack symptoms.</li><li>Light-headedness or fainting: Light-headedness, dizziness, or fainting may also be signs of a heart attack.</li></ul>Some women may experience atypical symptoms such as indigestion, upper abdominal pain, or a feeling of fullness. Women are also more likely to delay seeking medical attention for their symptoms than men, leading to a poorer prognosis. If you or someone you know is experiencing any of these symptoms, call 911 or seek emergency medical attention immediately.How Ginger-U Supplements May Support Cardiovascular Health?Ginger-U offers several health-optimizing supplements, including Coenzyme Q10 and Resveratrol. These two supplements are well-known for their heart-friendly effects. <a href='https://www.walshmedicalmedia.com/open-access/coenzyme-q-for-cardiovascular-prevention-2329-6607.1000e125.pdf' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Studies</a> have underlined the positive effects of CoQ10 on cardiovascular health. It helps increase LDL, aka the good cholesterol, and lowers inflammatory biomarker levels, thus slashing the risk of cardiovascular diseases. It may also help regulate high blood pressure, a risk factor for heart attack. See the figure below to know how <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/product/coenzyme-q10'>Coenzyme Q10 benefits heart health</a>.<img src='https://www.ahajournals.org/cms/asset/c3371db6-9ba0-4bf0-ba1a-23b9c2402b8a/e002639fig01.jpg' alt='Coenzyme Q10'> Source: <a href='https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIRCHEARTFAILURE.115.002639' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>https://www.ahajournals.org/doi/10.1161/CIRCHEARTFAILURE.115.002639</a>Similarly, resveratrol, a type of polyphenol, has antioxidant properties that protect your heart from oxidative stress. Besides, it improves health conditions (hypertension, diabetes, and chronic low-grade inflammation) that may lead to heart attacks. The following chart summarizes the findings from the clinical research involving <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/product/resveratrol'>resveratrol for heart health</a>.<img src='https://cbd.d1ob95hhqht73s.amplifyapp.com/assets/img/blogs/blog-heartattack2.jpg' alt='resveratrol'> Source: <a href='https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6413130/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6413130/</a>Besides, CoQ10 and resveratrol, you may consider taking the following supplements for cardiovascular health.<ul><li>Omega 3 fatty acids</li><li>Vitamin D</li><li>Magnesium</li><li>Fibre</li><li>L-carnitine</li></ul>Remember that supplements should be used with a healthy diet and an active lifestyle, not as their replacement. Also, consult your doctor before taking any new supplements, as they may interact with other medications or have other potential side effects.

It has emerged that one of the primary causes of death in older women is heart attack. So, what causes heart attacks in older women, and can it be prevented? Read more.

Why Women Are At A Higher Risk of Heart Attack in Older Age?

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>The Texas Heart Institute reports that women are more susceptible to cardiovascular diseases than men. It causes more than 40% of deaths of women in America. However, it is often underestimated ....</div>

Why Women Are At A Higher Risk of Heart Attack than Men in Older Age?

Periods bring discomfort and pain; but delay or absence of periods causes greater agony. Women across the world live through this paradox during their reproductive years, especially when they are sexually active. However, does a missed period always mean pregnancy? Well, No! Several other reasons can cause missed periods. Continue reading the blog to learn more.What Is A Missed Period?A missed period, medically known as amenorrhea, is when a woman of reproductive age has not had a menstrual period for three or more consecutive months. There are two types of amenorrhea: primary and secondary.Primary amenorrhea occurs when a young woman has not had her first period by the age of 16, despite the presence of normal growth and development of secondary sexual characteristics, such as breast development and pubic hair growth.Secondary amenorrhea occurs when a woman who previously had normal menstrual periods stops menstruating for three or more consecutive cycles. Pregnancy, breastfeeding, hormonal imbalances, side effects of certain medications, exertion, or significant weight loss or gain are some of the reasons for delayed periods but no pregnancy.Does A Missing Period Mean You Are Pregnant?When you miss your period, the fear of pregnancy looms large over your mind because a missed period is one of the most common signs of pregnancy. However, it is not always a reliable indicator. A missing period has many reasons, ranging from stress and illness to changes in weight or lifestyle. Hormonal imbalances or other underlying medical conditions could also be reasons for late periods.What Are The Causes Of Missed Periods?The following are the possible causes of late period when you are not pregnant.<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Stress: Shooting stress levels can cause hormonal imbalances. It may affect the menstrual cycle and cause a late period.</li><li>Weight changes: Significant weight gain or loss can affect the menstrual cycle and delay your period because changes in body fat levels can alter the amount and balance of hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle.</li><li>Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): PCOS is a hormonal disorder that can cause irregular periods or no periods. Insulin resistance and high levels of androgens produced in this condition interfere with regular ovulation, thus delaying menses.</li><li>Thyroid disorders: Thyroid disorders such as hypothyroidism or hyperthyroidism can cause hormonal imbalances and affect the menstrual cycle, leading to a late period.</li><li>Perimenopause: As women approach menopause, the menstrual cycle can become irregular, and periods may become less frequent. This stage is known as <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/perimenopause-vs-menopause'>perimenopause</a>.</li><li>Excessive exercise: Overexercising can cause a hormonal imbalance and affect the menstrual cycle, leading to a missed period when not pregnant.</li><li>Medications: Menstruation may get irregular in women taking hormonal contraceptives, steroids, and antidepressants.</li></ul>What Should You Do If You Missed Your Period?If you are a sexually active woman and not planning to have a child, do a pregnancy test to rule out conception. Once you have heaved the sigh of relief after seeing the two pink lines heralding no pregnancy, visit a gynaecologist for check-up and diagnosis of reasons for delay in menstruation. Similarly, if you have had no luck with carnal intimacy for quite some time but waiting for your monthlies, go to your OB-GYN for health examination and diagnosis.In addition to a pregnancy test, they will inquire about your medical history, weight, illnesses, contraception methods, and medications you are taking. Besides, you may also be asked to take blood tests to check hormonal imbalances and/or gene abnormalities. In some cases, an ultrasound scan is also recommended to detect issues in reproductive organs (if any).

Is a missed period usually indicative of pregnancy? Well! No. Several other reasons can cause missed periods. Continue reading to find out more.

Does a Missed Period Mean You' re Pregnant?

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>Periods bring discomfort and pain; but delay or absence of periods causes greater agony. Women across the world live through this paradox during their reproductive years, especially when they are sexually ....</div>

Missed Period - What Does it Mean?

Childbirth is an incredibly transformative experience that can bring great joy into a woman's life. From the moment a woman finds out she is pregnant, she embarks on a journey full of wonder and excitement. As her body changes and grows, she feels a sense of awe at the miracle of life growing inside her. When the time finally comes for her to give birth, the experience is not just intense and overwhelming, but painful too. It is a common notion that C-section causes less painful compared to delivering a baby vaginally. Well! Yes, somewhat true. However, it should be noted that recovery from a caesarean delivery is usually more painful as it involves an abdominal surgery. Besides, as is the case after a normal delivery, vaginal bleeding occurs after a c-section too. So, is it any different from vaginal bleeding after natural birth process? Let’s find out. What Is Vaginal Bleeding After C-Section?After a C-section, women will experience bleeding from the uterus, called lochia, which is the shedding of the uterine lining after childbirth. This bleeding is similar to a period and can last for several weeks. Therefore, women who have had a c-section should take proper care of their incision site and monitor their bleeding to ensure it is within normal levels.What Are The Causes Of Vaginal Bleeding After C-Section?Other than shedding of the uterine lining or incision bleeding after a c-section, some possible causes of vaginal bleeding after a c-section include:<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Retained products of conception: Any tissue or placenta in the uterus after delivery can cause vaginal bleeding.</li><li>	Trauma during delivery: If there is any trauma to the vaginal area during delivery, it can cause bleeding.</li><li>Endometritis: This is a uterine lining infection that can cause vaginal bleeding.</li><li>Uterine atony: This is a condition where the uterus does not contract properly after delivery, leading to bleeding.</li><li>Cervical tears: During a c-section, the cervix can sometimes tear, which can cause vaginal bleeding.</li><li>Vaginal or cervical infections: Infections of the vagina or cervix can cause vaginal bleeding.</li></ul>How Heavy Is The Bleeding After A C-Section?The amount of blood loss after a C-section is case-specific, but it is generally heavier and lasts longer than after a vaginal delivery. The bleeding may be heavy in the first few days after the surgery and gradually become lighter over the next few weeks.Follow your doctor's instructions for postpartum care, including using appropriate sanitary pads, avoiding strenuous activity, and lifting heavy objects to promote healing and reduce the risk of complications. If you have concerns about heavy bleeding after a C-section, it is always best to consult your healthcare provider.How Long Does Vaginal Bleeding Last After A C-Section?The duration of vaginal bleeding after a C-section can vary from woman to woman and depends on the type of delivery, individual recovery rate, and any complications. Here are the possible types of bleeding after a c-section.<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Immediate postpartum bleeding: After a C-section delivery, women experience immediate postpartum bleeding or lochia, typically lasting for 4 to 6 weeks. This bleeding is due to the shedding of the uterine lining and may start as heavy bleeding but gradually decrease over time.</li><li>Heavy bleeding: In some cases, women may experience heavy bleeding due to the formation of blood clots after a C-section or other complications like infection or retained placenta. Heavy bleeding can last 2-3 weeks and requires medical attention.</li><li>Prolonged bleeding: Some women may experience prolonged vaginal bleeding after a C-section, lasting up to 8 weeks or more. It can occur due to hormonal imbalances, fibroids, or other underlying medical conditions and requires medical evaluation. </li><li>Spotting: After the immediate postpartum bleeding stops, some women may experience light spotting for a few weeks or months. It is normal and can be due to the healing of the incision site or hormonal changes.</li></ul>It is advisable to keep track of the amount and duration of vaginal bleeding after a C-section and report any excessive bleeding or other abnormal symptoms to a healthcare provider. How To Manage Vaginal Bleeding After Delivery?Self-care is essential for new mothers, in addition to caring for the baby. Here are some tips to help you manage vaginal bleeding after delivery:<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Use postpartum pads: You will need special pads designed for postpartum bleeding. These are typically thicker and more absorbent than regular menstrual pads. Change your pad frequently, at least every four hours, to avoid infection.</li><li>Practice good hygiene: You should wash your hands before and after changing your pad and clean your perineal area with warm water after using the bathroom. Avoid using soap or other products, as these can irritate the area.</li><li>Take it easy: Rest is key to postpartum recovery, so avoid heavy lifting, intense exercise, or other taxing activities for at least six weeks after delivery. This will also help reduce the amount of bleeding you experience.</li><li>	Stay hydrated: Drinking enough water can help keep your body hydrated, which aids in healing and reducing vaginal bleeding.</li><li>Monitor your bleeding: It's normal to experience some bleeding after delivery, but keep an eye on the amount and color of your discharge. If you notice heavy bleeding (soaking through a pad in an hour) or bright red bleeding after the first few days, contact your healthcare provider immediately.</li></ul>Remember, every woman's experience with postpartum bleeding is different. Don't hesitate to contact your healthcare provider with concerns or questions about managing vaginal bleeding after delivery. With proper care and attention, you'll feel like yourself again in no time.

Following a C-section birth, vaginal bleeding is common. How long you bleed after a C-section and is it any different from vaginal bleeding after natural birth process. Let’s find out.

How Long Does Vaginal Bleeding Last After C-Section?

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>Childbirth is an incredibly transformative experience that can bring great joy into a woman's life. From the moment a woman finds out she is pregnant, she embarks on a journey full of wonder and excitement. As her body changes ....</div>

Post-coital bleeding or bleeding after sex affects up to 9% of women who menstruate. However, it may also occur in menopausal women. In most cases, it indicates a health problem. Read on to learn more on bleeding after sex.What Are The Causes Of Bleeding After Intercourse?There are several potential <a href='https://www.nhs.uk/common-health-questions/womens-health/what-causes-a-woman-to-bleed-after-sex/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>causes of bleeding after sex</a>, including:<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Infection: Infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, and trichomoniasis can cause bleeding after sex. These infections can cause inflammation and irritation in the cervix or vagina, leading to bleeding.</li><li>Sexually transmitted infections: Sexually transmitted diseases such as herpes and human papillomavirus (HPV) can cause bleeding after sex. These infections can cause genital warts or lesions that bleed during or after sex.</li><li>Hormonal changes: Hormonal changes during pregnancy or menopause can cause changes in the cervix and vaginal tissues, resulting in bleeding after sex.</li><li>Cervical polyps: Cervical polyps are nodules on the cervix that can cause bleeding after sex. They are usually benign and can be removed by a doctor.</li><li>Cervical or uterine cancer: Bleeding after sex can also be a cervical or uterine cancer symptom. See a doctor if you experience persistent <a href='https://www.webmd.com/women/bleeding-after-sex' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>bleeding after sex</a>, especially if you have other symptoms such as pelvic pain or abnormal discharge.</li><li>Vaginal dryness: Vaginal dryness can cause bleeding during or after sex, especially in postmenopausal or breastfeeding women. Using a lubricant can help reduce the risk of bleeding.</li><li>Trauma: Rough or aggressive sex can cause trauma to the vagina or cervix, making it bleed.</li><li>Use of blood thinners: Women taking blood thinners, such as warfarin or heparin, may be more prone to bleeding after sex.</li><li>Cervical polyps: Cervical polyps are small growths on the cervix that can cause bleeding after sex. They are usually benign, but it is important to have them evaluated by a healthcare provider.</li><li>Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): PID is an infection of the reproductive organs that can cause bleeding after sex, as well as other symptoms such as <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/ways-to-ease-pelvic-pain-in-women'>pelvic pain</a> and fever.</li><li>Endometriosis: <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/five-signs-you-might-have-endometriosis'>Endometriosis</a> is a condition wherein the tissue lining the uterus grows outside of it, which can cause bleeding after sex, pelvic pain and infertility.</li></ul>Does Vaginal Bleeding After Intercourse Count As A Period?It is possible to get your periods while having sex. However, it can happen occasionally, and not every time you get between the sheets with your partner. Generally, post-coital bleeding and menstruation are not the same. Post-coital bleeding refers to vaginal bleeding that occurs after sexual intercourse. Conversely, menstruation is a natural process that occurs in the female reproductive system approximately once a month. It is characterized by the shedding of the uterine lining, which results in vaginal bleeding. Menstrual bleeding typically lasts several days, a normal part of a woman's menstrual cycle.While both post-coital bleeding and menstruation involve vaginal bleeding, they are caused by different factors and have other characteristics. If you are unsure about the vaginal bleeding you are experiencing, talk to your doctor for an accurate diagnosis and suitable treatment.How To Prevent Bleeding After Intercourse?If you are experiencing bleeding or spotting after intercourse, speak with a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and develop an appropriate treatment plan. Here are some general tips that may help prevent bleeding during or after intercourse:<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Communicate with your partner: Let your partner know if you experience pain or discomfort during intercourse. They may be able to adjust their technique or approach to help reduce the risk of bleeding.</li><li>Use lubrication: Dryness during intercourse can cause friction and irritation, which may lead to bleeding. Use a water-based lubricant to help reduce friction and increase comfort.</li><li>Practice safe sex: Using condoms can help reduce the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs), a cause of bleeding or other symptoms. </li><li>Take it slow: Rushing through intercourse or being too forceful can cause tearing or trauma to the vaginal tissue, resulting in bleeding. Take your time and focus on pleasure and relaxation.</li><li>Visit a healthcare provider regularly: Regular check-ups with a healthcare provider can help detect any underlying health issues, such as infections or cervical abnormalities that may contribute to bleeding after intercourse.</li></ul>TakeawayRemember, a variety of factors, including infections, hormonal changes, and even certain medications, can cause noticeable or light bleeding after intercourse. If you are experiencing these post-coital symptoms, consult a healthcare professional to determine the underlying cause and an appropriate treatment plan.

Bleeding after sex or post-coital bleeding could indicate a health issue. Continue reading to learn more about the causes of bleeding after intercourse and how to prevent it.

What you Need to Know About Bleeding After Intercourse?

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>Post-coital bleeding or bleeding after sex affects up to 9% of women who menstruate. However, it may also occur in menopausal women. In most cases, it indicates a health problem. Read on to learn more on bleeding after sex....</div>

Bleeding After Sex: What You Need To Know

What Are Supplements?Supplements, as the word suggests, are meant to supplement or enhance the intake of nutrients that may be lacking in an individual's diet. These are available as pills, capsules, powders, liquids, and bars and may contain vitamins, minerals, herbal extracts, amino acids, or other substances. Supplements are not intended to replace a healthy and balanced diet but rather to complement it. They may benefit individuals with specific nutrient deficiencies, those with certain medical conditions that impact nutrient absorption, or those who follow restrictive diets.Do Women Need To Take Supplements?Whether or not women need to take supplements depends on their needs, dietary habits, and lifestyle factors. Generally, a well-balanced and varied diet that includes fruits, vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins, and healthy fats can provide all the nutrients women need to support their overall health and well-being. However, some women may have nutrient deficiencies due to pregnancy, breastfeeding, menopause, certain medical conditions, or dietary restrictions, which may require them to take supplements. Additionally, with busy schedules and ever-changing lifestyles, it can be challenging to maintain optimal health through diet alone.For example, <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/product/maca'>MACA dietary supplement</a> is believed to support women's hormonal health and fertility, although more research is underway on maca's role in promoting women's health. Similarly, studies have suggested that Diindolylmethane (DIM) may improve PCOS symptoms such as irregular menstrual cycles, acne, and hirsutism (excessive hair growth). However, more research is required to fully understand <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/product/dim'>DIM’s benefits for females</a> and determine the optimal dosage and duration of treatment.What Are The Most Important Supplements For Women?Supplementation recommendations for women depend on their health conditions, age, diet, known allergies, and other factors. However, here are the common supplements that doctors or nutritionists prescribe to women.<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Vitamin D: Vitamin D is a requisite for bone health and immune function. 5-10 minutes of daily sun exposure helps the body produce vitamin D. However, many people may not get enough sun exposure or dietary sources of vitamin D.</li><li>Iron: Iron is needed for red blood cell formation, which carry oxygen throughout the body. Women may be at higher risk for iron deficiency due to menstruation or pregnancy.</li><li>Probiotics: Probiotics contain beneficial bacteria that supports digestive health and immune function. They are found naturally in certain foods, such as yogurt and fermented vegetables, or can be taken as a supplement.</li><li>Calcium: Calcium is essential for building and maintaining strong bones and teeth. It may also play a role in nerve function, muscle function, and blood clotting.</li><li>Coenzyme Q10: CoQ10 is a naturally occurring substance in the body. However, <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/product/coenzyme-q10'>Coenzyme Q10 supplements</a> are also popular because CoQ10 plays a crucial role in energy production and has antioxidant properties that may help protect cells from damage caused by free radicals.</li><li>Magnesium: Magnesium is important for bodily functions, including nerve and muscle function, blood sugar control, and blood pressure regulation.</li><li>Omega-3 fatty acids: These are essential fatty acids that the body needs but cannot produce on its own. They are known to help reduce inflammation and may provide benefits for heart health, brain function, and joint health.</li></ul>Why Take Ginger-U’s Supplements?The short answer is:<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Focus on women’s needs</li><li>Knowing what you are putting in your body</li><li>	Innovative and efficient mix of ingredients</li><li>Confidence in purity and composition</li><li>Made in U.S.A. with superior ingredients</li></ul>Regarding #1, women have their own health needs. Regarding #2, the government does not require that the supplement facts tables on labels mirror the purity and composition of what is actually in the bottle. Regarding #3, Ginger-U’s supplements often include other important ingredients (e.g., Vitamin D, Magnesium, Calcium, Iron, etc.), in addition to the main focus of the product. Regarding #4, all Ginger-U supplements are rigorously tested for purity and composition. Regarding #5, all Ginger-U supplements are Made in U.S.A. Ginger-U adheres to strict manufacturing standards to make safe and effective products.

Some women may have nutrient deficiencies due to several factors for which they may require to take healthy supplements.  Find out how supplements may support their overall health and well-being here.

Why Should Women Try Ginger-U 'S Dietary Supplements?

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>Supplements, as the word suggests, are meant to supplement or enhance the intake of nutrients that may be lacking in an individual's diet. These are available as pills, capsules, powders, liquids, and bars and may contain vitamins, minerals, herbal extracts, amino acids, ...</div>

Several factors, such as hormonal changes, diet and nutrition, sleep cycle, stress levels, and various health conditions may affect your period. But there’s a lesser known aspect that can influence your monthly cycle—sex. Yes, sex has a bearing on your periods. Surprised? Well! Read on if you are curious to learn more. Periods and Sex: Are They Connected?One factor that can affect both sexual activity and periods is hormonal changes. Hormones like estrogen and progesterone play a role in menstruation and sexual desire. Fluctuations in these hormones can impact both the menstrual cycle and libido. For example, some women may experience a decrease in sexual desire around their period due to changes in hormone levels.Certain health conditions can also affect both sexual activity and periods. For example, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis can cause irregular periods and affect sexual function. In addition, some medications for treating these conditions can also impact sexual desire and function.It is also worth noting that sexual activity may affect your periods positively, as discussed in the next section of this blog.How Are Regular Sex And Menstrual Health Related?Having sex may help ease period problems. Regular sexual activity may promote pelvic blood flow and <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/symptoms-ways-to-balance-hormones-naturally'>maintain hormonal balance</a>, thus supporting menstrual health indirectly. It can also help relieve menstrual cramps and tension, as the release of endorphins during sex can act as a natural pain reliever. Additionally, sexual activity can help alleviate stress and anxiety, and improve overall mood, which can benefit those experiencing premenstrual syndrome (PMS). However, every person's menstrual cycle and body are different, and the effects of sexual activity on menstrual health can vary from individual to individual. Do consult your healthcare provider for personalized advice on menstrual health.How Do Sex And The Menstrual Cycle Regulate Each Other?A complex relationship exists between sex and the menstrual cycle, and they can regulate each other to some extent. During the menstrual cycle, the body undergoes hormonal changes that regulate ovulation, menstruation, and other bodily functions. One of the key hormones involved in this process is estrogen, which rises and falls throughout the cycle.Estrogen levels dip considerably during the menstrual period and gradually rise during the follicular phase (the first half of the cycle), peaking just before ovulation. This rise in estrogen can increase libido and sexual desire, making it more likely for a person to want to have sex during this time.On the other hand, <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/period-sex'>having sex during the menstrual period</a> may also affect the menstrual cycle. For example, some research suggests that orgasms can help to alleviate menstrual cramps and other period-related discomforts, possibly due to the release of endorphins. Additionally, some studies have found that having sex during the period can shorten its duration by stimulating the uterus to shed its lining more quickly.Overall, while sex and the menstrual cycle do have some degree of influence on each other, various factors influence these two processes. Also, practice safe sex and use appropriate contraception to prevent unintended pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.

Are sex and your menstrual cycle connected? Well, there are various health conditions that affect your period but sex also has a bearing on your periods. Read on to learn more.

Do Periods Change After Being Sexually Active?

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>Several factors, such as hormonal changes, diet and nutrition, sleep cycle, stress levels, and various health conditions may affect your period. But there’s a lesser known aspect that can influence your ...</div>

Does Being Sexually Active Affect Your Period?

More often than not, periods are considered a women’s issue. But this is far from the truth, because the sex assigned at birth may be different from one’s gender identity, which is an innate sense of self as male, female, or else. As a result, menstruation is the biological reality of transgender individuals, making them vulnerable to its emotional and physical effects. Continue reading this blog to understand how menstruation affects transgender men and women. Who Are Trans Men?<a href='https://prevention.ucsf.edu/research-project/transgender-men' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Trans men</a> are individuals who were assigned female at birth but identify and live as men. They may experience gender dysphoria, which is a feeling of distress or discomfort caused by a disconnect between one's gender identity and their assigned sex at birth. Trans men may seek medical interventions such as hormone therapy or gender confirmation surgery to align their physical body with their gender identity.Not all trans men choose to undergo medical interventions, and their gender identity is still valid regardless of any medical procedures they may or may not undergo. Trans men come from diverse backgrounds and may identify with different sexual orientations and gender expressions.Can A Transgender Male Have Periods?Yes, some transgender men may bleed during the time of the month, depending on the testosterone they are taking. The level of discomfort, pain, and <a href='https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/gender-dysphoria/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>gender dysphoria</a> vary from one trans man to another. However, most trans men experience the physical and emotional symptoms that occur before and during menstruation. Additionally, the stigma and unwanted attention around men purchasing and using menstrual hygiene products add to their stress during periods.Who Are Trans Women?A <a href='https://www.medicinenet.com/what_is_the_meaning_of_transgender_female/article.htm' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>trans woman</a> is a woman who was labelled male at birth based on her biological sex characteristics, but thinks, feels, and lives as a woman. Like trans men, trans women may also experience gender dysphoria, leading to social and emotional challenges. The gender transitioning process for trans women involves a range of combination of <a href='https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5182227/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>hormone therapy and gender-affirming surgeries</a>. However, undergoing such a procedure is a choice that depends on several factors.Can A Transgender Woman Get Periods?Menstruation for transgender women is unlike typical menstrual periods. The symptoms of a menstrual cycle (such as cramping, bloating, and mood swings) are typically associated with the hormonal changes that occur in a cisgender woman's body as a result of ovulation and menstruation. Since trans women do not have ovaries, they do not ovulate or menstruate and, therefore, do not experience these specific symptoms.However, trans women who undergo hormone therapy may experience side effects similar to those experienced during a menstrual cycle, such as breast tenderness, mood changes, and energy levels, and premenstrual dysphoric disorder. In addition, in some cases, trans women may experience light bleeding or spotting due to the hormonal changes caused by estrogen therapy. Additionally, not all trans women will experience these side effects, and some may not desire to experience them at all. Menstrual Well-Being Tips For Transgender IndividualsThe menstrual journey can be a challenging experience for transgender individuals, especially those who have not undergone gender-affirming hormone therapy or surgery. Here are six ways that can ease the menstrual journey of transgender individuals:<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Use menstrual products that match your gender identity: Menstrual products such as pads, tampons, or menstrual cups are essential for managing menstrual bleeding. Transgender individuals can choose products that match their gender identity. For instance, a transgender man may prefer to use pads or tampons with neutral packaging or those marketed to men.</li><li>Consider hormonal birth control: Hormonal birth control can help reduce the frequency and intensity of menstrual bleeding. Transgender individuals should discuss their options with their healthcare provider, including using continuous birth control pills or long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) methods such as the intrauterine hormonal device (IUD).</li><li>Consider gender-affirming hormone therapy or surgery: Gender-affirming hormone therapy or surgery can help transgender individuals align their bodies with their gender identity. Hormone therapy can help reduce or stop menstrual bleeding, while surgery such as hysterectomy or oophorectomy is for removing uterus or ovaries, respectively, eliminating menstrual bleeding. Transgender individuals can discuss their options with a gender-affirming healthcare provider.</li><li>Track Your Periods: Period tracking can be important in order to monitor changes in menstrual cycle due to hormone therapy and managing gender dysphoria, as well as monitoring their reproductive health. For example, trans men taking testosterone may experience irregular periods or a complete cessation of their menstrual cycle. On the other hand, trans women who undergo hormone therapy may experience an onset of menstruation or changes in their menstrual cycle. By tracking their menstrual cycle, transgender individuals can monitor any changes and discuss them with their healthcare provider to ensure they are receiving the appropriate treatment. Similarly, for some transgender individuals, menstruation can trigger gender dysphoria. By tracking their menstrual cycle, transgender individuals can prepare for menstruation and manage their dysphoria more effectively.</li><li>Practice self-care: Menstrual symptoms such as cramps, bloating, and fatigue can be managed with self-care strategies. Transgender individuals can try taking warm baths, using a heating pad, practicing relaxation techniques (such as deep breathing), and getting enough rest.</li><li>Seek support: Menstruation can be an isolating experience for transgender individuals, especially if they do not have access to supportive healthcare or social networks. Seeking support from healthcare providers, friends, or online communities can help alleviate the stress and anxiety associated with menstrual bleeding.</li></ul>Transgender individuals may have a variety of experiences with menstruation depending on their gender identity and their physical anatomy. Therefore, they should talk to a healthcare provider about their specific needs and concerns regarding menstruation and find resources and support from their community.

Periods are commonly thought to be a female issue, but menstruation is a reality for trans people as well. Read this blog to learn more about how menstruation affects them.

Do Trans Men And Women Get Periods?

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>More often than not, periods are considered a women’s issue. But this is far from the truth, because the sex assigned at birth may be different from one’s gender identity, which is an innate sense of self as male, female, or else. As a result, menstruation ...</div>

Do Transgender Men And Women Get Periods?

The internet is brimming with menopause humor. From resting in a fridge to cope with hot flashes to personifying the 'mad woman in the attic,' several memes comically portray (and sometimes downplay) the symptoms women experience during menopause. However, the transition to menopause is indeed fraught with discomfort, undesirable bodily changes, and coming to terms with Mother Nature's way. If you are a <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/perimenopause-vs-menopause'>perimenopausal woman looking for information on menopause</a> and the tests to check it, scroll down to know more. What Is Menopause?<a href='https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/menopause' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Menopause</a> is the end of menstruation and fertility in women. It is a natural biological process that marks the end of a woman's reproductive years. The average age for menopause is 51, but it can occur anywhere between the ages of 45 and 55. The characteristics of menopause are changes in hormone levels, including a decline in estrogen, which can cause various symptoms, such as hot flashes, night sweats, mood changes, vaginal dryness, and sleep disturbances. What Are The Symptoms Of Menopause?Here's an exhaustive list of <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/menopause-body-changes'>menopause symptoms</a>.<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Hot flashes</li><li>Night sweats</li><li>Vaginal dryness</li><li>Sleep disturbances</li><li>Irregular periods</li><li>Mood swings</li><li>Decreased sex drive</li><li>Joint and muscle aches</li><li>Fatigue</li><li>Memory lapses and concentration difficulties</li><li>Increased risk of cardiovascular diseases</li><li>Loss of bone density that may cause osteoporosis </li></ul>Are There Any Medical Tests To Confirm Menopause?Several medical tests can confirm menopause:<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li><a href='https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/follicle-stimulating-hormone-fsh-levels-test/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>FSH (Follicle-stimulating hormone) test</a>: A blood test that measures the levels of FSH, which tend to increase as estrogen levels decrease during menopause.</li><li><a href='https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/323178' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Estradiol test</a>: A blood test that measures estradiol levels, a type of estrogen hormone that decreases during menopause.</li><li><a href='https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/luteinizing-hormone-lh-levels-test/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>LH (Luteinizing hormone) test</a>: A blood test that measures the levels of LH, which may increase as the ovaries slow down during menopause.</li><li><a href='https://medlineplus.gov/lab-tests/prolactin-levels/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Prolactin test</a>: Prolactin is a hormone that plays a role in milk production and can sometimes be elevated in postmenopausal women. A blood test helps determine the rise in prolactin levels because of menopause. </li><li><a hre='https://www.healthline.com/health/menopause/thyroid-and-menopause' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Thyroid function tests</a>: These tests are used to check the functioning of the thyroid gland, which can be affected by menopause and can cause symptoms similar to menopause.</li></ul>The best test for confirming menopause depends on the individual case and is best determined in consultation with a healthcare provider.How Can I Test For Menopause At Home?You may buy an over-the-counter (OTC) menopause self-test kit to find out if it's time to miss the 'time-of-the-month.' Different types of menopause tests that can be done at home include:<ul><li><a href='https://www.news-medical.net/whitepaper/20220128/Saliva-hormone-testing-to-protect-womens-health.aspx' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Saliva hormone test</a>: It measures the levels of estrogen and progesterone in saliva, which signifies if a woman is in menopause.</li><li>	Urine hormone test: It helps check follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) levels in urine, which increases as menopause approaches.</li><li>Menopause prediction kit: A kit for testing luteinizing hormone (LH) levels in urine, which goes up before ovulation and can tell if a woman is nearing menopause.</li></ul>Are Menopause Self-Test Kits Reliable?The accuracy of menopause self-test kits can vary and is not always reliable. These tests measure hormone levels, but these levels can be affected by many factors, including illness, stress, and certain medications. Therefore, false positive or false negative results are possible.Additionally, menopause is a complex process with a range of symptoms. Age, lifestyle, and medical history are a few factors that influence hormonal changes during this time. You should consult a healthcare provider for a definitive diagnosis of menopause. In addition, working with a health coach may also help when navigating through rough waters (read menopause!).

Women would want to know if their symptoms are a result of menopause. So, are there any menopause tests available? Learn about the various types of menopause tests here.

Is There A Test To Check The Onset Of Menopause?

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>The internet is brimming with menopause humor. From resting in a fridge to cope with hot flashes to personifying the 'mad woman in the attic,' several memes comically portray (and sometimes downplay) the symptoms women experience during menopause ...</div>

Period symptoms are different for everyone who bleeds. So, the answer to whether it is safe to exercise during periods depends on the severity of symptoms. Obviously, someone with crippling back ache or cramps wouldn’t choose to go for a 5-kilometer walk in the wee hours. But what about mild to moderate exercise? Is it beneficial? Or should you only rest when menstruating? Keep reading to get the answers. Let’s begin by understanding the changes that take place in women’s bodies during menstruation.<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Hormonal changes: An increase in progesterone and estrogen levels causes the uterus to build up a lining of blood and tissue.</li><li>Shedding of the uterus lining: When the egg is not fertilized, the hormones drop, and the uterus sheds the built-up lining, causing bleeding.</li><li>Cramping: The uterus contracts to help shed the lining, which can cause cramping and discomfort.</li><li>Mood swings: Hormonal changes during a period can also affect mood, causing irritability, sadness, or anxiety.</li><li>Breast tenderness: Hormonal changes can cause breast tissue to become swollen and tender.</li><li>Fatigue: The body uses energy to shed the uterus lining, which can cause fatigue.</li><li>Changes in appetite: Hormonal changes may impact appetite. Some women may experience increased hunger and cravings, while others may feel less hungry. </li><li>Water Retention and Bloating: Fluctuations in progesterone and estrogen levels cause water retention and bloating, which can affect metabolism and hunger signals in the body. </li><li>Other types of pain: During periods, some women may also experience headache, migraine, back ache, muscle ache, and joint pain in addition to cramps.</li></ul>Given These Changes, Should You Exercise During Periods? Yes, women can exercise during periods. Physical activity can help alleviate menstrual cramps and improve mood. However, listening to your body and adjusting your routine as needed is essential. If you feel particularly tired or uncomfortable, take a rest.Are There Any Benefits To Exercising During Periods?Yes, exercising during periods has several benefits.<ul><li>Relief from menstrual cramps: Exercise can help relieve menstrual cramps by increasing blood flow to the uterus.</li><li>Improved mood: Exercise can release endorphins—natural mood boosters that may also alleviate fatigue and bloating.</li><li>Menstrual cycle regulation: Regular exercise can help <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/product/inositol'>regulate menstrual cycles</a> and reduce the severity of symptoms.</li><li>Reduced stress: Exercise can reduce stress and tension, which can be especially beneficial during menstruation.</li><li>Increased energy: Exercise can boost energy levels and improve overall well-being during your period.</li></ul>Which Exercises Are Best During Periods?<ul><li>Yoga: Yoga helps ease cramps and reduces stress, a common problem during periods.</li><li>	Walking: Walking is a low-impact exercise that helps increase blood flow, reduce bloating, and relieve cramps.</li><li>Pilates: Pilates improves posture, flexibility, and core strength, thus lowering menstrual pain.</li><li>Cycling: Cycling is a moderate form of exercise that helps improve circulation and alleviate cramps.</li><li>Aerobic exercise: Aerobic exercises like jumping jacks, running, and jumping rope are great for improving cardiovascular health and reducing stress during periods.</li><li>Weightlifting: Weightlifting can help improve muscle tone and strength, which can contribute to alleviating menstrual pain and cramping.</li><li>Dancing: Dancing is a fun and energetic exercise that can help reduce cramps and bloating.</li><li>Stretching: Stretching works well for alleviating menstrual pain by improving flexibility and reducing tension in the body.</li><li>Hiking: Hiking is a good way to get moving and go outside. It helps reduce stress and cramps during periods.</li></ul>Which Exercises Should You Avoid During Period?Avoid high-impact exercises outdoor or during gym workouts when on period. These include:<ul><li>Running: Running can cause discomfort and worsen period cramps.</li><li>	Jumping: Jumping exercises like plyometrics and box jumps can put added pressure on the lower abdomen, causing increased discomfort.</li><li>Heavy weightlifting: Heavy weightlifting can cause abdominal cramping and discomfort, especially for women with heavy periods.</li><li>Intense cardio: Intense cardio exercises like kickboxing, aerobics, and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) can increase cramping and discomfort.</li><li>Contact sports: Contact sports like basketball, soccer, and rugby can add pressure on the lower abdomen, leading to increased discomfort and cramping.</ul>It is sensible to listen to your body during your period and avoid exercises that cause discomfort or pain. Choose light exercise, like yoga or walking, for getting the best results.

Exercise can help promote a healthy lifestyle for most people. But, can working out while on your periods be beneficial and make you feel better? Well, find out why women should exercise during period.

Can You Exercise While On Your Period?

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>Period symptoms are different for everyone who bleeds. So, the answer to whether it is safe to exercise during periods depends on the severity of symptoms. Obviously, someone with crippling back ache or cramps ...</div>

Endometriosis refers to a health condition wherein endometrium, or tissue similar to the lining of the uterus, grows on the exterior of the uterus, most commonly on the fallopian tubes, ovaries, and tissue lining the pelvis. It can also occur on the intestines or other organs within the abdominal cavity. This tissue can cause pain, irregular bleeding, and infertility. One in ten women in the <a href='https://www.who.int/data/maternal-newborn-child-adolescent-ageing/indicator-explorer-new/mca/women-of-reproductive-age-(15-49-years)-population-(thousands)' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>reproductive age bracket</a> may have endometriosis.It is most commonly diagnosed in women of reproductive age, typically between <a href='https://endometriosis.net/age-start-for-women' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>25 and 40</a>. However, it can also be diagnosed in teenagers who have begun menstruating and in women who have gone through menopause. Endometriosis can affect women of any age with menstrual periods, and it can be difficult to diagnose, as symptoms can vary from person to person. It is important to note that endometriosis is a chronic condition that may be present for many years before it is diagnosed. Some women may not experience any symptoms, while others may experience severe pain and discomfort. It is also worth mentioning that some studies have found that endometriosis is more likely to occur in women with a family member with the condition, women who have never given birth, and women who have short menstrual cycles (less than 27 days).What Are The Symptoms Of Endometriosis?The <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/five-signs-you-might-have-endometriosis'>main symptoms of endometriosis</a> are pelvic pain and menstrual cramps that are often severe and can interfere with daily activities. Other symptoms can include:<ul><li>Painful periods (dysmenorrhea)</li><li>Pain during intercourse</li><li>Pain with bowel movements or urination during periods</li><li>Excessive bleeding during periods (menorrhagia) or between periods (intermenstrual bleeding)</li><li>	Infertility</li><li>	Fatigue</li><li>Diarrhea, constipation, bloating, or nausea, especially during periods</li></ul>It's important to note that some women with endometriosis may have mild or no symptoms. Also, the above symptoms are common to other conditions, and proper medical diagnosis is a requisite.Does Diet Really Help With Endometriosis?Research on the impact of diet on endometriosis is still ongoing, but some <a href='https://keck.usc.edu/can-dietary-changes-help-with-endometriosis-pain/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>studies suggest</a> that certain dietary choices may play a role in managing symptoms of endometriosis.A diet high in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and low in saturated fat, processed foods, and refined sugars may help reduce inflammation and improve overall health. Some studies have also found that a diet rich in omega-3 fatty acids in fatty fish such as salmon and sardines may help reduce inflammation and pain associated with endometriosis.Some studies have suggested that a diet low in dairy products, red meats, and processed foods may be beneficial for women with endometriosis, as they are known to have high estrogen levels.Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise may also help reduce the risk of endometriosis.Which Diet Is Best For Endometriosis?No specific diet is considered best for managing endometriosis, as the ideal diet may vary from person to person. However, some general dietary guidelines that may help to manage symptoms of endometriosis include:<ul><li>Eating a diet rich in whole grains, vegetables, and fruits high in antioxidants and anti-inflammatory elements.</li><li>	Consuming a moderate amount of healthy fats, such as those found in nuts, fatty fish, and olive oil may help reduce inflammation.</li><li>Avoiding foods high in saturated fat, refined sugars, and processed foods, as they may contribute to inflammation.</li><li>Consuming a moderate amount of lean proteins, such as fish, poultry, and legumes.</li><li>Limiting the intake of red meats, dairy products, and processed foods, as they are known to have high levels of estrogen.</li><li>Including berries (blueberries, raspberries, and strawberries) in diet as antioxidants and anti-inflammatory compounds in them may help reduce inflammation in the body.</li><li>Drinking enough water and fluids to stay hydrated.</li></ul>What Foods Triggers Endometriosis?Some research suggests that <a href='https://endometriosis.net/living/worst-foods' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>certain foods may trigger or worsen endometriosis symptoms.</a> These foods include:<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Red meats Consuming a diet high in red meats, such as beef and pork, may increase estrogen in the body, worsening endometriosis symptoms.</li><li>Dairy products Estrogen levels may peak because of taking dairy products, such as milk, cheese, and yogurt, thus making endometriosis symptoms worse.</li><li>	Processed foods Processed foods, such as packaged snacks and frozen meals, are high in unhealthy fats and added sugars, which can contribute to inflammation and may worsen endometriosis symptoms.</li><li>	Caffeine Some studies suggest that caffeine may aggravate endometriosis symptoms, so it is recommended to limit or avoid consuming caffeine-containing foods and drinks, such as coffee, tea, and chocolate.</li><li>	Alcohol Consuming large amounts of alcohol may worsen endometriosis symptoms, and it is suggested to consume it in moderation.</li></ul>These foods may not affect everyone with endometriosis in the same way, and that some women may be able to tolerate these foods while others cannot. It is important to note that while diet can be an important factor in managing endometriosis, it is not a cure, and it should be used in combination with medical treatment. Also, everyone's body is different, and what works for one person may not work for another. Therefore, it is always sensible to consult with a healthcare professional before making any significant changes to your diet.

The relationship between diet and endometriosis symptoms is still ongoing, however some studies suggest that certain dietary choices may help to alleviate symptoms. Learn more about an endometriosis diet here.

Foods to Eat and Avoid When You Have Endometriosis

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>Endometriosis refers to a health condition wherein endometrium, or tissue similar to the lining of the uterus, grows on the exterior of the uterus, most commonly on the fallopian tubes, ovaries, and tissue lining the ...</div>

Endometriosis Diet: What Should You Eat and Avoid

A bra, a delicate thing A support, a lift, a wing A symbol of femininity A silent partner in dignityIt holds us up, it keeps us in A confidence boost, a secret grin It shapes and molds, it smooths and hides A secret weapon, a feminine prideIt's lacy and sheer, or plain and strong A fashion statement, a lifelong song A bra, a simple garment, yet so much more A symbol of strength, a woman's core.Since its invention in the early 1900s, the modern bra has undergone many changes in terms of design, support, and variety of sizes. They are an essential part of women's clothing and have evolved to provide both style and function. Other than giving shape and definition to the breasts, a bra has several other benefits. For example, a properly fitting bra can help support the weight of the breasts and prevent sagging or discomfort. Wearing a bra can also help improve posture by pulling the shoulders back and aligning the spine. For women experiencing back pain due to the weight of their breasts, a bra can help distribute the weight of the breasts evenly and reduce pain. It may also help protect the breast tissue and reduce the risk of injury during physical activity. While you may reap all these benefits of wearing a bra during the day, what about sleeping in a bra? Is it bad to wear a bra 24/7? Well! It's an oft-repeated debate, and we have got the answers for you. Keep reading.Should You Wear A Bra To Bed? It is perfectly fine to wear a bra to bed if it is comfortable for you. Some people prefer to wear a bra to bed for added support and to prevent breast soreness or discomfort. Others may prefer not to wear a bra to bed for added comfort and breathability. Ultimately, it is a personal preference and what feels comfortable for you. However, you may experience problems if the bra is too tight or made of an uncomfortable fabric.What Actually Happens When You Sleep With A Bra?The American Academy of Sleep Medicine and the National Sleep Foundation do not recommend wearing a bra to bed. In fact, sleeping in a bra that is too tight may cause discomfort and restrict blood flow to the breasts, which can lead to breast pain and other issues. Common issues that you may experience because of sleeping in a bra include:<ul><li>Reduced blood circulation</li><li>Discomfort and a feeling of tightness in the breasts leading to disturbed sleep</li><li>Increased risk of infection if bacteria and sweat accumulate in the bra’s fabric</li><li>Irritation or chafing if the straps, underband, or underwire rub against the skin</li></ul>It is important to wear comfortable clothing to bed and avoid anything that may cause discomfort or interrupt sleep.Are There Any Benefits Of Sleeping Without A Bra?In addition to preventing the issues mentioned above, ditching your bra at night may allow you to sleep more comfortably without worrying about waking up with imprints of straps, hooks, or the underband on your body. Besides, if you sleep with a partner, sleeping without a bra may be one of the precursors to good foreplay and sex.Which Are The Worst Bras To Sleep In?<ul><li>Underwire bras: Underwire bras are not designed for sleeping as they can cause discomfort and dig into the skin.</li><li>Push-up bras: Push-up bras are often padded and have underwire, which can cause discomfort and irritation while sleeping.</li><li>Sports bras: Sports bras are designed for high-impact activities and are not suitable for sleeping as they can be too tight and restrictive.</li><li>	Strapless bras: Strapless bras can be uncomfortable to sleep in as they can slip and slide around, causing irritation and discomfort.</li><li>Lace bras: Lace bras can be scratchy and uncomfortable in sleep, causing irritation and itching.</li></ul>TakeawayUltimately, it is important to listen to your own body and wear what feels comfortable to you when sleeping. If you notice any discomfort or problems related to wearing a bra to bed, it may be best to remove it and opt for more relaxing sleepwear.

Bra is an essential part of women's clothing. Wearing a bra during the day has advantages, what about sleeping in a bra? Read on to find out the answers.

Is Sleeping in a Bra Helpful or Harmful During Night?

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>Since its invention in the early 1900s, the modern bra has undergone many changes in terms of design, support, and variety of sizes. They are an essential part of women's clothing and have evolved to provide both style and ...</div>

Is Sleeping With A Bra At Night Harmful?

Your body shows signs of aging, like wrinkles, gray hair, and sagging skin. However, aging changes the vagina and vulva too. Surprised to know? Well! The hormonal ups and downs affect the feel and function of your vagina. Read on to learn how aging affects your vagina. How Does Your Vagina Change As You Age?Most women go through four stages of hormonal changes—puberty, menstruation, pregnancy, and menopause. Exceptions may be there because of certain health issues; however, these are the primary stages of hormonal changes in women. Each of these changes affects your vagina differently.Changes To The Vaginal Area During the 20s and 30sIn these years, the body produces enough estrogen and progesterone. Therefore, vaginal changes include more discharge because of adequate amounts of estrogen coursing through your body.Many women also get pregnant for the first time between their late 20s and 30s, affecting the look and feel of their vagina. Changes in estrogen levels post-pregnancy and during breastfeeding can cause vaginal dryness. What does vaginal dryness feel like? You may ask. It makes your vagina feel rough, itchy, and irritated and can result in pain during sexual intercourse. Alternatively, women using hormonal methods of contraception may also experience vaginal dryness.Besides, women who give birth vaginally may also experience vaginal laxity. It generally occurs after pregnancy because of stretched and weakened pelvic floor muscles. These muscles support the abdominal organs, including the rectum, and act as a continence mechanism to the urethral, anal and vaginal openings (in females). During vaginal birth, the pelvic floor muscles can stretch, tear, or distend in the vagina to make space for the baby's head to come through. This makes the vagina slightly looser, saggy, or roomier, also called vaginal laxity.Vaginal Changes During the 40s and 50sEstrogen levels start decreasing during your 40s and 50s, giving way to perimenopause, the period before menopause. The average age of menopause is <a href='https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menopause/symptoms-causes/syc-20353397' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>51</a>. The estrogen loss leads to the loss of vaginal collagen and natural lubrication, making the vagina dry, thinner, and sore or painful during sex. Menopause-led vaginal changes also cause shrinkage of the vagina and clitoris, thinner and saggy labia, and weaker pelvic floor muscles.Note that irrespective of age, the risk for infections remains if the vaginal pH increases and makes the vaginal biome more acidic. Lack of hygiene may also cause infections like bacterial vaginosis (BV).8 Tips To Keep Your Vagina HealthyAre you thinking about how to ensure vaginal Health as you age? Here are a few valuable tips for you.<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Wash your lady parts once a day using mild soap and water.</li><li>Use lubricants when experiencing vaginal dryness because of hormonal fluctuations. </li><li>Use a vaginal moisturizer or topical estrogen to rehydrate vaginal tissue.</li><li>See your gynecologist when experiencing vaginal itching, redness, foul smell, excessive discharge of any color, irritation, or pain during sex.</li><li>Do Kegel exercises to restore pelvic muscle strength.</li><li>Have more sex because no or minimal sex makes the vagina less elastic and the vagina more rigid. Sex helps maintain vaginal tissue health.</li><li>Say no to smoking as it further lowers estrogen levels and intensifies the effect of aging on vaginal Health.</li><li>Take <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/product/probiotics'>vagina-friendly nutrients</a> such as vitamin D, vitamin E, and Omega-3. </li></ul>Conclusion Aging-related vaginal changes are inevitable. However, taking care of your reproductive Health may help minimize the impact of aging on the vagina. It is prudent to consult your healthcare provider at the earliest when experiencing vaginal health problems.

Did you know aging changes the vagina and vulva too.The hormonal ups and downs affect the feel and function of your vagina. Read on to learn how aging affects your vagina.

What Are The Vaginal Changes That Occur With Age?

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>Your body shows signs of aging, like wrinkles, gray hair, and sagging skin. However, aging changes the vagina and vulva too. Surprised to know? Well! The hormonal ups and downs affect the feel and function of your vagina. Read on to learn how aging affects your vagina. ...</div>

Most people think of birth control as a barrier against pregnancy. However, despite the possibility of pregnancy, same-sex couples also use birth control. Transgender men may for example get pregnant and need birth control. Therefore, the LGBTQ+ community rightfully deserves inclusion in the discussion on contraception. Here’s what you should know about the use of birth control among the LGBTQ+ community.Do LGBTQ Use Birth Control?Yes. People from the LGBTQ+ may take birth control for several reasons, such as easing period pain in people who menstruate, preventing unwanted pregnancy, and managing their cycle. In addition, teens who are a part of the sexual minority are at an increased risk of teen pregnancy, making birth control a requisite.Why Do LGBTQ+ Use Birth Control?This question brings the differences between sex and gender to the forefront. Sex depends on a person’s biological and physiological attributes, whereas gender refers to the socially constructed roles, identities, behaviors, and expressions of girls, boys, men, women, and gender-diverse people. So, people with a uterus, irrespective of gender, are at risk of unwanted pregnancy and need birth control. For example, trans men who have undergone testosterone therapy are assumed to be infertile. However, <a href='https://www.hindawi.com/journals/crie/2022/6246867/, https:/www.bostonivf.com/our-practice/blog/boston-ivf-announces-results-of-landmark-transgender-male-fertility-research-study/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>research</a> shows the opposite. Trans men may conceive even after being on testosterone therapy. Their <a href='https://www.bostonivf.com/our-practice/blog/boston-ivf-announces-results-of-landmark-transgender-male-fertility-research-study/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>egg yields have been found to be similar to those of cisgender women</a>.Taking HRT medications may stop ovulation in trans men and non-binary people. However, the egg reserve remains in adequate quantity. It means their menstrual cycle is likely to resume when they stop taking testosterone therapy, making them fertile. Similarly, intersex people, i.e., those with a combination of male and female biological traits, may also get pregnant if they have a uterus. In some cases, tissues from ovaries or ovotestes can play a role in reproduction. Intersex birth control is also helpful for people with a uterus, ovaries, and a vagina, as they can conceive by sperm contact. Like cisgender people, people from the LGBTQ+ community may need birth control for reasons other than pregnancy prevention. These include menstrual cycle regulation, managing hormonal fluctuations and their effects (for example, recurrent acne), and stopping their periods.What Are The Birth Control Options For LGBTQ+ Community?They may choose from several birth control options, for example, intrauterine devices, contraceptive implants, patches and rings, birth control pills, and condoms. These birth control options may be hormonal or non-hormonal. For example, a contraceptive implant releases progesterone and prevents pregnancy when inserted into your upper arm just under the skin by your healthcare provider. The intrauterine device has the same effect when inserted into the uterus. The non-hormonal variant of IUD contains copper. Copper works the same way progesterone does. It thickens the cervical mucus and prevents sperm from reaching the eggs during ovulation. Talk to your GP or a healthcare professional to know the most suitable birth control option. As much as possible, choose a health practitioner trained to understand LGBTQ-specific issues. Don’t forget to ask them about the side effects of the birth control option you choose to prevent unwanted pregnancy as safely as possible.Conclusion Birth control is essential to the reproductive health of LGBTQ+ community. The need of the hour is to improve their access to reproductive healthcare, destigmatize their sexual choices, and spread awareness on the health-related consequences of unsafe sexual practices. Besides, encouraging adherence through <a href=' https://www.ginger-u.com'>birth control pills reminder apps</a> or <a href='https://www.acog.org/clinical/clinical-guidance/practice-bulletin/articles/2017/11/long-acting-reversible-contraception-implants-and-intrauterine-devices' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>long-acting reversible contraception (LARC)</a> methods is also advisable for pregnancy prevention and sexual health in their community.

Birth Control is for everyone. There are many reasons for the LGBTQ people wanting to take birth control. Read here to know about the use of birth control.

Why Do Same Gender Couple Use Birth Control?

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>Most people think of birth control as a barrier against pregnancy. However, despite the possibility of pregnancy, same-sex couples also use birth control. Transgender men may for example get pregnant and need birth control. Therefore, the LGBTQ+ community rightfully deserves inclusion in the discussion on contraception. Here’s what you should know about the use of birth control among the LGBTQ+ community. ...</div>

Do Same-Gender Couples Use Birth Control?

LGBTQ identification in the USA has increased 7.1%, reports a <a href='https://news.gallup.com/poll/389792/lgbt-identification-ticks-up.aspx' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Gallup survey</a>. Furthermore, among those who identify as LGBTQ, 21% of the respondents are Generation Z (i.e., adults born between 1997 and 2003). These statistics paint a positive picture of the acceptance of the LGBTQ community. However, when it comes to healthcare, the chasm of disparities is still perniciously wide. As highlighted in a 2017 <a href='https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5478215/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>literature review</a>, LGBT youth get poor quality of care due to stigma, lack of awareness among healthcare providers, and insensitivity to the specific needs of this community. Here are a few most common health-related risks faced by them.What Are The Six Health Problems Faced By LGBT Community?<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Mental Health Conditions Studies indicate that transgender or gender non-conforming (TGNC) adolescents are more susceptible to depressive disorders and attention deficit disorders than non-TGNC youth. Besides, systemic oppression and structural deprivation make people from the LGBTQ community likelier to suffer from depression, anxiety, suicidal tendencies, and eating disorders. The lack of access to proper healthcare and the understandable fear and mistrust among LGBTQ members worsen their mental health conditions. </li><li>Sexually Transmitted Diseases Research demonstrates that LGBTQ youth are at a greater risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV).1 Their predisposition to social stigmatization, parental and societal rejection, and isolation contribute to <a href='https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5543709/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>their risky sexual behavior</a>. Other than this, biological factors also make LGBTQ more prone to STDs. For example, men who have sex with men (MSM) are at a high risk of <a href='https://www.cdc.gov/hiv/basics/hiv-transmission/ways-people-get-hiv.html' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>HIV transmission</a> when they have unprotected anal sex. It is because the rectum has a thin lining, allowing HIV to get transmitted during anal sex easily.</li><li>	Substance Abuse <a href='https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/67/wr/mm6702a1.htm' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Data</a> shows substance abuse is more widespread in LGBTQ+ groups than in the non-LGBTQ+ community. For example, <a href='https://www.cdc.gov/mmwr/volumes/67/wr/mm6702a1.htm' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>smoking</a>, <a href='https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6352513/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>alcohol consumption, tobacco abuse</a>, and <a href='https://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/doi/10.1111/josh.12499' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>drug abuse</a> have been higher in the LGBTQ+ section.</li><li>	Eating Disorders and Obesity Research has underlined that bisexual and lesbian women are more vulnerable to weight gain or obesity than heterosexuals. However, straight men are more likely to be overweight or obese than gay men. Evidence also suggests that body image and eating-related disorders may be more prevalent among LGBTQ+ people than others. Stressors behind the development of eating disorders include body image issues, fear of rejection, bullying, harassment, and restricted access to quality and timely healthcare.</li><li>	Heart Disease Gays, lesbians, and bisexuals are at a higher risk of <a href='https://www.health.com/condition/heart-disease/heart-disease' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>heart disease</a> and other cardiovascular problems than others. In addition, people from the LGBTQ community are more likely to smoke and have elevated blood sugar levels, contributing to heart disease.</li><li>	Breast and Cervical Cancers Although more evidence is needed, the LGBTQ+ community is more likely to get breast and cervical cancers. This could be attributed to increased stress and substance abuse among lesbian and bisexual women. Besides, a lack of timely screenings may also cause higher cervical cancer rates among bisexual and lesbian women.</li></ul>Why Does The LGBTQ Community Face These Health Issues?The following are the causes of the physical and mental health issues faced by LGBTQ+ people.<ul><li>The minority status and the stigma attached to the LGBTQ+ community.</li><li>Healthcare workers who are not well-trained to understand the unique needs of the community.</li><li>	Limited clinical research on health-related issues of LGBTQ+.</li><li>Lack of comprehensive health benefits.</li><li>Discrimination, fear of coming out, and institutional bias in the health care system.</li></ul>Quick Health Tips For LGBTQ<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Manage stress by eating a nutritional diet and getting adequate sleep.</li><li>Take care of your emotional and mental well-being. Meditation, journaling, talking to friends and family, and finding a creative outlet may be helpful here.</li><li>Connect with support groups and organizations that support the LGBTQ+ community.</li><li>Seek therapy whenever required.</li><li>Limit smoking, alcohol consumption, binge eating, or other unhealthy patterns of eating. </li></ul>LGBTQ+ are as much a part of society as cis-gender and straight people. Therefore, their healthcare needs are equally important and a requisite to a healthy society. Please leave comments below.

LGBT youth receive poor quality care as a result of stigma and lack of awareness among healthcare providers. Here are a few most common health-related risks faced by them.

6 Major Health Issues Faced By LGBTQ Community

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>LGBTQ identification in the USA has increased 7.1%, reports a Gallup survey. Furthermore, among those who identify as LGBTQ, 21% of the respondents are Generation Z (i.e., adults born between 1997 and 2003). These statistics paint a positive picture of the acceptance of the LGBTQ ...</div>

Vaginal bleeding indicates changes in a woman’s body. From <a href='https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/24139-menarche' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>menarche</a> to menstruation and <a href='https://www.mayoclinic.org/healthy-lifestyle/pregnancy-week-by-week/expert-answers/implantation-bleeding/faq-20058257' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>implantation bleeding</a> to a miscarriage, there could be several causes of vaginal bleeding. During the early days of pregnancy, when you might not know you are pregnant, confusing a heavy period with a miscarriage is common. Not recognizing a miscarriage can adversely affect the health of women who should medical care/intervention for miscarriage. Alternatively, sometimes light spotting during early pregnancy can be mistaken for a miscarriage. So, if you are trying for pregnancy or think you are pregnant, here are the differences between a miscarriage and a heavy period that you should know. What Is The Difference Between Miscarriage And Period?Period or miscarriage? You can may be able to identify the case based on the timing, duration, appearance of vaginal blood, and secondary symptoms. Nevertheless, consulting your doctor is the best action.<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Timing A period occurs every 28-35 days and lasts 3-7 days, whereas miscarriage occurs only after fertilization. Both period and a miscarriage may begin with spotting and lead to heavy bleeding. However, you are more likely to think of pregnancy loss as a period during the first two months of pregnancy.</li><li>Duration Unless you have had hormonal issues such as <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/symptoms-causes-pcod'>PCOD</a>/PCOS, you know how heavy and long your period typically is. However, in case of a miscarriage, the duration, cramps (because of dilating cervix), and blood loss increase over time. </li><li>	Appearance of vaginal blood Period blood has shades of orange and pink at the beginning and darkens to bright red and maroon when the flow is heavy. Besides, the typical period flow cycle follows the light-heavy-light pattern. On the other hand, vaginal blood during a miscarriage may appear pink or red initially and turn coffee-brown when the bleeding gets heavier. The flow may alternate between light, medium, and heavy and may even stop temporarily before restarting. You cannot see the egg being expelled during your period. Similarly, fetal or placental tissue may not be visible to the naked eye when the miscarriage occurs before you are eight weeks pregnant. </li><li>	Secondary symptoms Alongside bleeding, period causes cramps, bloating, hot flashes, chills, tender breasts, and mood changes. Miscarriage also causes some of these symptoms. However, in this case, bleeding, lower back ache, and cramps typically worsen over time. Larger-than-normal blood clots, tissue, and passing fluids are also not uncommon when you miscarry. If you <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/tampons-menstrual-cups-organic-napkins-which-is-better'>use a tampon or a pad</a> every hour for more than two hours, it is more likely to be a miscarriage.</li></ul>How Do You Confirm A Miscarriage?If you suspect a miscarriage, visit your OBGYN at the earliest. Usually, a pelvic exam and a <a href='https://medlineplus.gov/ency/article/003779.htm' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>transvaginal ultrasound</a> are done to check if there is any residual fetal matter. If the latter is the case, the doctor may prescribe medicines to help expel the tissue or dilate the <a href='https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/dilation-and-curettage/about/pac-20384910' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>cervix to scrape the uterine lining (D&C, a dilation and curettage)</a> or <a href='https://www.michigan.gov/mdhhs/adult-child-serv/informedconsent/michigans-informed-consent-for-abortion-law/procedures/dilation-and-evacuation-de' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>remove fetal or placental tissue through suction (D&E, a dilation and evacuation)</a>.How To Cope After A Miscarriage? Grief, shock, failure, and guilt are emotions that one may experience after a miscarriage. However, the path forward is to take time to grieve and come to terms with the loss. Sharing your feelings with your partner may also help. If you are coping with a miscarriage single-handedly, consider talking to your friends and family members. Counseling is also recommended to get your life back on track after a pregnancy loss. The Bottomline The symptoms of a miscarriage or heavy period may overlap. However, factors like duration, timing, amount of blood loss, and secondary symptoms may help you differentiate between the two. Visit your doctor as soon as possible if you think you have had a miscarriage.

It can be difficult to tell the difference between an early pregnancy loss and a period. Here are the differences between the two that you should be aware of.

What is the Difference Between Miscarriage and Heavy Period?

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>Vaginal bleeding indicates changes in a woman’s body. From menarche to menstruation and implantation bleeding to a miscarriage, there could be several causes of vaginal bleeding. During the early days of pregnancy, when you might ...</div>

Miscarriage Or A Heavy Period - How To Tell The Difference?

It is no secret that diet enhances the benefits of working out. However, does sex play a role in the association between diet and exercise? Well, research says yes. For example, a <a href='https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/25389897/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>study published on PubMed</a> underlined that a low-ED (the amount of energy per gram) diet for athletes and exercise-trained women might regulate their hunger and maintain low body weight. However, high levels of exercise with a low-ED diet may suppress post-exercise appetite, thus increasing the possibility of sub-optimal energy intakes in lean women. When energy intake and expenditure mismatch, women are susceptible to several health issues, including stress fractures, osteoporosis, amenorrhea (absence of periods), eating-related disorders, and suppressed immune response. Why Is Post-Workout Nutrition Important?Post-workout nutrition for women is essential to maximize athletic performance. Without enough carbohydrates, fats, and proteins, athletes may feel hungry, lazy, and tired during a workout. They may also require specific minerals and vitamins, such as iron, vitamin D, and zinc, for fitness and performance.It is helpful to remember that each individual’s nutritional requirements differ. Therefore, it is recommended to <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/shop/need/nutritions'>consult a health coach</a> or a sports dietitian to get a well-thought diet plan according to your body and activity level.Evidence suggests that instead of focusing on a healthy diet or physical activity, integrating both produces better results. In addition, exercise influences the choice of daily meals, including after-workout meals, for many individuals.What Are the Benefits Of Taking Nutritional Foods Post Work-Out?A one-line answer is that it refuels and rehydrates your body. Taking an optimal diet after a workout reduces inflammation, helps with muscle recovery, and prepares you well for the next session. Remember that exercise may cause micro-tears in your muscles. A protein-rich diet supports the repair of these muscles. Besides, a good post-exercise or post-performance diet helps restore glycogen levels and replenish the body’s energy source. Finally, drinking water is an unmissable part of post-workout needs because it helps the body cope with electrolyte loss caused by sweating. What Happens If You Miss After-Workout Meal?Missing meals post-workout, a sports performance, or any other form of moderate-to-heavy exercise can weaken your muscles in the long term. Similarly, staying dehydrated for long can make you feel tired and pale. Besides, the drop in glucose levels after exercise is likely to affect your mood and alertness. Therefore, a well-balanced meal is important after engaging in physical activity.What To Eat After Workout?Here are the best post-workout meals for women to consider.Carbs<ul><li>Quinoa and other whole grains</li><li>Sweet potatoes</li><li>Fruits (banana, apple, berries, kiwi)</li><li>Hot chocolate milk (vegans may replace animal milk with soy or almond milk)</li><li>Oats </li><li>Brown rice</li><li>Whole wheat or semolina pasta</li><li>Grilled potatoes</li></ul>Fats<ul><li>Seeds and nuts</li><li>Nut butters</li><li>Foods with healthy fats roasted in pure clarified butter</li><li>Avocados</li><li>Cottage cheese</li></ul>Protein<ul><li>Eggs</li><li>Whey protein or plant protein</li><li>Cottage cheese</li><li>Chicken breast</li><li>Salmon</li><li>Tuna</li><li>Protein bar</li><li>Yogurt</li></ul>Vitamins<ul><li>Fatty fish, egg yolk, mushrooms, spinach, kale, and sunshine for Vitamin D</li><li>Organ meats, non-GMO soy, and blue-green algae for Vitamin B12</li><li>Oranges, gooseberries, bell peppers, pineapples, strawberries, and kiwis for Vitamin C</li><li>Foods rich in magnesium, CO-Q10, zinc, and selenium also help repair your body after a workout</li></ul>Exercising without taking proper nutrition may gradually distress and weakens your body.Therefore, be food-smart and stick to a healthy diet regimen pre-and post-workout.

Understand how to fuel your body by eating the right foods after workouts. Here is a post-workout nutrition guide for women.

Best Post Workout Foods For Women

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>It is no secret that diet enhances the benefits of working out. However, does sex play a role in the association between diet and exercise? Well, research says yes. For example, ...</div>

Best Post-Workout Foods For Women

You are what you eat, not only physically but mentally too. The foods that you eat daily impact your mood in several ways. For example, skipping meals can lower blood glucose levels and make you tired and weak. Similarly, several studies indicate that <a href='https:/www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC2738337/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>nutritional deficiencies may affect mental health</a>. Therefore, it makes sense to understand that food influences our mental health. Read on to learn more about the link between diet, mood, mental health, and food to improve your well-being.How Food Affects Mental Health?The connection between diet and mental health stems from the association between the brain and gastrointestinal tract. Millions of bacteria reside in the gastrointestinal tract. They produce neurotransmitters, chemical signals that transfer messages from the gut to the brain. Some common neurotransmitters influenced by food intake are serotonin, dopamine, epinephrine, norepinephrine, and cortisol. Healthy foods help the “good” bacteria multiply, which affects neurotransmitter production. Alternatively, having junk food frequently causes inflammation, which hampers the production of neurotransmitters. The brain receives and follows positive messages when neurotransmitter production is going well. But when inflammations from diets negatively affect neurotransmitters, one’s mood goes downhill.What Foods Boosts Mental Health?The best foods for mental health are mainly those that help lower inflammation. Here’s what to buy in your next grocery shopping for a healthier, happier you.<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Whole foods Whole foods are unprocessed and unrefined, which helps retain their nutrition. These include fresh fruits, vegetables, whole grains, etc. If buying 100% whole foods isn’t an option, choose minimally processed foods with at least some healthy ingredients and minimum additives such as food colorings, stabilizers, and preservatives. These food additives may disrupt neuron or hormonal function, causing irritability, insomnia, aggression, and anxiety. </li><li>Antioxidants An antioxidant-rich diet helps prevent age-related brain cell damage, depression, and other mood disorders related to inflammation. It also reduces skin damage/aging caused by environmental exposure to free radicals. Seeds, berries, freshwater fish, and leafy green vegetables are a few excellent sources of antioxidants. </li><li>	Fiber <a href='https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30951762/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Sugar rush and sugar crash</a> both affect our mood and energy adversely. The solution here is to eat foods rich in fiber. Fiber helps the body absorb glucose slowly, preventing sugar rush and sugar crash. Many healthy foods like whole grains, vegetables, fruits, and beans contain fiber. You may also consume psyllium husk, an excellent source of fiber.</li><li>	Vitamin D Vitamin D supports the production of <a href='https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/nutritional-psychiatry-your-brain-on-food-201511168626' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>serotonin, which influences happiness and anxiety. Also, note that serotonin gets produced in the gut</a>. So, alongside the consumption of Vitamin D, the overall health of GI also matters in serotonin production. So, get a few minutes of sun exposure every day, or consider taking supplements after consulting your doctor.</li><li>Fermented Foods Fermentation makes food replete with probiotics, bacteria that promote your gut health. Tempeh, pickles, curd, yogurt, and sauerkraut are some of the best sources of fermented foods.</li></ul>What Foods Negatively Affect Mental Health?Highly processed foods laden with salt or sugar, sources of refined carbs (for example, white bread or white sugar), high-fat dairy, and foods with saturated and trans fat are foods not good for mental health. So, choose the healthier alternatives as much as possible. In addition, smoking and alcohol also wreak havoc on your mental health.TakeawayDiet and mental well-being go hand in hand. Therefore, pay attention to your meals as a part of your plan to effectively <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/importance-of-womens-mental-health'>manage your emotional, psychological, and mental health</a>.

The foods you eat everyday impacts your mood and mental health. Continue reading to learn how food can affect your mental health and well-being.

Best and Worst Foods for your Mental Health

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>You are what you eat, not only physically but mentally too. The foods that you eat daily impact your mood in several ways. For example, ...</div>

How Diet May Affect Your Mood And Mental Health?

“Good sex is like a good bridge. If you don't have a good partner, you'd better have a good hand,” said Mae West. However, once menopause hits, it takes more than a partner or self-stimulation to experience orgasm. So, what happens during menopause, and how to alleviate its effect on your sex life? Continue reading to learn more. How Does Menopause Affect Sex?Female arousal during menopause is like watching the grass grow. It means the feelings to get intimate take longer to peak. But why does it happen? The answer is a sharp decline in estrogen levels, which causes vaginal dryness, tightness, and thinning. Resultantly, arousal gets delayed, and there's a lack of lubrication, making sex painful.Is Sex Drive Lowered In Women During Menopause?Yes! There's a strong link between menopause and sex drive. First, as discussed above, estrogen loss contributes to vaginal atrophy, making sex less pleasurable. Other effects of estrogen loss include mood swings, weight gain, loss of collagen that speeds aging up and may affect self-esteem, hot flashes, and increased possibility of urinary tract infection. Besides, the small amount of testosterone that women's bodies produce nosedives during menopause and adversely affects women's sex drive and overall well-being. All these factors contribute to lowered libido in menopausal women. Remember that these signs may start as early as premature <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/perimenopause-vs-menopause'>menopause and perimenopause</a>. How Can You Make Sex More Pleasurable During Menopause?Now! Time for some good news. You do not need to give up on sex once periods say goodbye for good. In fact, <a href='https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/wellness-and-prevention/how-sex-changes-after-menopause' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>50% of women in their 50s and 27% in their 70s continue having intercourse</a>. Here are a few tips for you to make sex after menopause smoother, enjoyable, and memorable. <ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Use lubricants Sexual arousal helps lubricate the vagina to facilitate penetration. However, with a dip in hormone levels, lubrication doesn't occur, and intercourse gets difficult. But there's help in the form of lubricants. You may buy water-based, oil-based, or vaginal moisturizers before sex to make way for plain sailing (wink wink! You know what we mean). Consult your OBGYN if you are unsure about the type of lubricant to buy. </li><li>Communicate and Connect With Your Partner The drop in male sex hormone testosterone in men is much slower and lower compared to the fall in estrogen levels in women. So, men may not be able to fully understand the physical, emotional, psychological, and sexual effects of menopause. Therefore, maintaining healthy communication is crucial to make things work out. For example, if you desire more foreplay, tell your partner. Or suppose, if fingering feels less painful, let your partner know. Whatever it is! Talk it out. </li><li>	Take Help Besides physical changes, the emotional and psychological effects of menopause may affect your overall relationship with yourself and your partner. If you feel irritated and depressed about your waning youth (it's inevitable, right?) or some other factor, visit a counselor. Similarly, physical changes like weight gain, dry skin, and muscle loss may also need your attention. Certain lifestyle changes and a positive attitude are the best ways to rev yourself and your sex life up after menopause.</li></ul>Remember, all you need is a bit of effort to make sex after menopause satisfying.

Hormonal changes during menopause may have an impact on sex life. Here are few tips on how to increase your sex drive during menopause.

Tips For Better Sex During Menopause

<div className='post-text mb-20 '>“Good sex is like a good bridge. If you don't have a good partner, you'd better have a good hand,” said Mae West. However, once ...</div>

Tips To Enhance Your Sex Life During Menopause

The CDC estimates that polycystic ovarian disorder (PCOS) affects up to 12% of women in the US. The common PCOS symptoms include irregular periods, weight gain, insulin resistance, hirsutism, and high chances of infertility. Among these, shedding excess weight can help improve the remaining symptoms too. For example, A <a href='https://www.mdpi.com/2075-1729/12/2/308/htm' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>review study</a> showed that weight loss through lifestyle modifications helps improve metabolic index and positively impacts managing PCOS in obese patients. To understand how weight loss works for PCOS, knowing what happens in your body when you have PCOS is important. What Is PCOS?PCOS is a hormonal problem that affects women in the reproductive age bracket. The development of cysts or fluid-filled sacs on the outer edge of the ovaries is the primary cause of PCOS. These cysts contain follicles (immature eggs) that inhibit the regular release of eggs and hamper periods. Increased androgenic activity in the body is also seen in women with PCOS. Generally, women's bodies produce small amounts of testosterone, the male sex hormone. However, testosterone levels go significantly up when you have PCOS. Hyperandrogenism because of PCOS is caused by insulin resistance, which makes losing weight difficult for women with PCOS.Why Do Women Struggle To Lose Weight With PCOS?The pancreas produces a hormone called insulin to control blood sugar. It helps transfer glucose from blood into cells, which break it down for energy. But when you have insulin resistance, the body tissues reject insulin activity. Therefore, the body produces insulin in excess. High insulin levels raise blood sugar levels, causing weight gain and susceptibility to prediabetes and type 2 diabetes. With insulin resistance, the body gets stuck in a vicious cycle of overweight or obesity as the body stores excess blood sugar as fat. The extra fat, in turn, tells the body to produce even more insulin.Does Weight Loss Improve PCOS?Though an uphill task, weight loss is the single most effective way to improve the symptoms of PCOS. Weight loss in PCOS can help restore the ovaries' normal function and gradually normalize hormone production. <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/symptoms-ways-to-balance-hormones-naturally'>Improved hormonal balance</a> helps with hirsutism, hair loss, acne, menstrual irregularities, and infertility. For many women, it also works as a self-esteem booster and promotes better mental health. Excess weight because of PCOS puts you at risk of diabetes and heart disease. Therefore, getting leaner, especially when you have PCOS, helps lower the risk of these health problems.How Much Weight To Lose To Improve PCOS Symptoms?Your ideal weight depends on your height and age. Consult your doctor to know how many pounds you should get rid of for PCOS-related weight loss. However, studies have shown that losing even as little as <a href='https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos/treatment/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>5%-10%</a> of excess body weight works effectively for improving PCOS symptoms. How To Lose Weight When You Have PCOS?Regular exercise, 7-9 hours of deep sleep daily, and a customized PCOS diet plan for weight loss are the three most effective ways to lose weight to alleviate PCOS symptoms. In addition, supplements like <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/product/inositol'>inositol may also support weight loss in women</a> with PCOS.So, the answer to the often-Googled question, 'if I lose weight, will PCOS go away?' is yes. However, consistency is the key. You might hit a plateau after initial progress or may not see any results for some time after starting your PCOS-induced weight loss journey. But do not give up. If required, <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/shop/need/weight-management'>seek help from a qualified health coach</a> to make weight loss with PCOS easier.

Weight loss can be difficult with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), but lifestyle changes such as exercise and a diet plan may help to alleviate PCOS symptoms.

How Does Weight Loss Help With PCOS In Women?

<div className="post-text mb-20 ">The CDC estimates that polycystic ovarian disorder (PCOS) affects up to 12% of women in the US. The common PCOS symptoms include ...</div>

How Does Losing Weight Help With PCOS?

From pre-historic Lucy Down the Great Wall of China To the billions today, It's all Owed to a vagina. Francie Lynch The vagina makes the world go round. It is not just a part of your reproductive anatomy but a powerful organ that plays a role in sex, periods, pregnancy, and childbirth. Some people choose to keep their vaginas hair-free and smooth, while others prefer a bushy feel to their vaginas. Shaving the vagina is a personal choice; however, taking a few precautions is recommended if you choose to do so. Here are a few tips for treating your lady parts with love while making them whiskerless.While it is okay to remove pubic hair, let us address an often-asked question—“Is It Healthier To Shave Pubic Hair?”No, it does not have any health benefits. Some people remove their pubic hair for aesthetics, while others do it to avoid getting pulled during sex. Though one of the purposes of pubic hair is to decrease friction during sex, longer pubic hair may, in fact, interfere during the moments of pleasure. imagine an ouch instead of aahs and oohs!. Some people with vaginas relate pubic hair removal to hygiene. Well! Pubic hair is a part of the body, and nothing is unsanitary about it. However, like the rest of the hairier body parts (for example, armpits), pubic hair also needs regular cleaning. Dust and sweat trapped in the hair can make the vagina smelly. During periods, blood clumps may also get tangled amidst the hair. Therefore, some people choose to wax, depilate, or shave their pubic hairs. Health experts recommend washing the vagina with mild soap and water once daily, whether or not you shave your pubic area. What Are Ways To Remove Pubic Hair Safely?You can try one of the following pubic hair removal methods:<ul><li>Trimming with clean and sharp scissors</li><li>Shaving pubic hair using a razor</li><li>Waxing, either at a salon or at home</li><li>Tweezing (the most painful of all!)</li><li>Using depilatory creams</li><li>Laser hair treatment</li><li>Electrolysis</li></ul>Laser hair removal and electrolysis are the best ways to remove pubic hair for lasting results.What Are The Risks Associated With Shaving Down There?Some people may experience adverse reactions after pubic hair removal. For example, ingrown hair and cuts are common side effects of shaving pubic hair. Similarly, pinpoint bleeding during waxing and redness and folliculitis afterward is also common. People who use depilatory creams may experience itchiness, bumps, or redness if they are allergic to any of the chemicals in the creams. All in all, trimming is the safest method to cut pubic hair short. To remove pubic hair, try different ways to determine what works best for you.

Pubic hair serves a purpose. Whether you want it all or shave it, here's what you should know about hygiene, hair growth, safety removal, and more.

Is It Safe For A Woman To Shave Pubic Hair?

<div className="post-text mb-20 ">The vagina makes the world go round. It is not just a part of your reproductive anatomy but a powerful organ that plays a role ...</div>

While planning meals for the day, the impact of different foods on vaginal health is probably the last thought on one’s mind. However, the nature of your food may impact the vaginal pH. The vagina has “good” and “bad” bacteria naturally. When the harmful bacteria multiply, they can cause itching, foul odor, and bacterial infections. Certain foods may help rebalance the vaginal microbiome and help with these symptoms. Want to learn more? Continue reading. What Foods Make the Vagina Healthier?<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Anti-inflammatory foods When the vagina’s pH balance goes out of whack, symptums like irritation, burning sensation, and itching present themselves. The body’s response to inflammation causes these symptoms. Anti-inflammatory foods like fatty fish, eggs, berries, green leafy vegetables, and fruits help calm the symptoms of inflammation and prepare your body better to fight inflammation.</li><li>Probiotic-rich foods Probiotic supplements are available in the nutraceutical market. You can also help the good bacteria in your body thrive by taking certain foods. These include plain yogurt, kimchi, sauerkraut, and plain yogurt. <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/product/probiotics'>Probiotics for vaginal health</a> benefit people with disturbed vaginal pH as they reintroduce healthy, protective bacteria. </li><li>Prebiotic-rich foods Good bacteria need a source to feast on to survive. Prebiotic fibers are an excellent food source for good bacteria as it helps the latter multiply. Although prebiotic supplements are available, taking prebiotics through your diet is healthier. Foods rich in prebiotics include onion, garlic, asparagus, and leek. Consuming prebiotics alongside probiotic supplements or probiotic-rich foods helps get the best results for your vaginal health. </li><li>Healthy fats Fats have been defamed for years. However, <a href='https://womenshealth.obgyn.msu.edu/blog/understanding-dietary-fats' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>research</a> shows they are essential to a balanced diet, especially for women. Healthy fats (unsaturated fats such as monounsaturated and polyunsaturated fats) like olive oil, nuts, seeds, clarified butter, and avocado help regulate cholesterol and balance estrogen levels. This, in turn, helps maintain optimal pH levels and bacterial distribution in the vagina.</li></ul>That said, there are some foods to avoid for the vagina’s sake. So, what are the worst foods for vaginal health? Let’s discuss this.<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Sugar-laden foods Bad bacteria feed on sugar and multiply, thus imbalancing the vaginal pH. Therefore, it is sensible to limit the consumption of sugary foods (especially those containing refined sugar), artificial sweeteners, and beverages.</li><li>Processed foods Processed foods are convenient. However, they could be a substantial inconvenience to your vaginal pH. They contain preservatives, thickeners, artificial colors, high salt and sugar, everything that may lead to inflammation and leave your body more susceptible to bad bacterial takeover. Eating whole organic foods or minimally processed foods is your best bet to keep your vagina happy.</li><li>Foods with hormones Dairy and meat with <a href='https://womeninbalance.org/2012/10/26/xenoestrogens-what-are-they-how-to-avoid-them/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>artificial hormones (xenoestrogens)</a> disrupt women’s hormonal health. They mimic naturally occurring estrogen and block their action, causing estrogen dominance. So, buy organic dairy and hormone-free meat products with USDA certification. Apart from helping you maintain vaginal health, avoiding these foods is one of the <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/5-ways-to-boost-fertility'>effective ways to boost fertility</a>.</li></ul>BottomlineOur vaginas deserve regular care. Treating them well includes taking a balanced diet that promotes a healthy pH. Therefore, think about your vagina when you shop for groceries next time.

A healthy diet has an impact on every system in your body.  Learn about the foods that support and balance vaginal health, as well as the ones that cause infections .

Best and Worst Foods For Vaginal Health

<div className="post-text mb-20 ">While planning meals for the day, the impact of different foods on vaginal health is probably the last thought on one’s ...</div>

The Best and Worst Foods for the Vagina

Polyphasic sleep refers to dividing periods of sleeping into naps alongside a less-than-eight-hour window of deep sleep at night. It is common in babies aged 0-3 months; however, it is a growing trend among adults. The purported benefits of polyphasic sleep include cognitive improvement and better productivity. So, is polyphasic sleep better? Let’s learn more.What Is Polyphasic Sleep?Unlike monophasic sleep, polyphasic sleep involves three or more sleep segments throughout 24 hours. People who prefer polyphasic sleep not only swear by its health benefits but also claim that it helps them manage their day better. Polyphasic sleep comprises four categories of sleep patterns or schedules based on the number of hours.<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>2-hour window or the Dymaxion sleep schedule is the most extreme type of polyphasic sleep schedule. It was developed by the famous American architect Buckminster Fuller. It consists of only two hours of daily sleep divided into 30-minute naps every six hours.</li><li>3-hour sleep window or the Uberman sleep schedule is Credited to Marie Staver. It was developed in the 1990s and includes 30-minute naps every four hours, making for three hours of sleep every day.</li><li>4-hour sleep window or the Everyman sleep schedule involves a 3-hour deep sleep window at night and three 20-minute naps during the day.</li><li>5-hour sleep window or the Triphasic sleep sleep schedule allows you to sleep the maximum number of hours. For triphasic sleep, you sleep thrice a day, sometime before dawn, in the afternoon, and after dusk.</li></ul>Is Polyphasic Sleep Cycle Healthy For the Brain?The benefits of polyphasic sleep are based on anecdotal reports; therefore, research is required to understand the greater benefits of these sleep patterns. Nonetheless, those who follow a polyphasic sleep pattern underline its following advantages.More Productivity – Individually reported information says polyphasic sleep may help increase productivity, allowing you to get more work done every day. However, when you only sleep for a maximum of 5 hours a day, you have 19 hours to spare for other tasks. So it translates to completing more tasks in a day. Aligns With Rotational Work Shifts – Polyphasic sleep schedules may work well for people with irregular work schedules. Lack of sleep affects the clarity of thought and increases the chances of accidents. In such cases, polyphasic sleep may be helpful. <a href='https://hilo.hawaii.edu/campuscenter/hohonu/volumes/documents/TheEffectsofPolyphasicSleeponAcademicSuccess.pdf' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>For example, a 2015 study</a> on college students found that napping allows students to replenish lost nighttime sleep and deal with drowsiness during the day (Ye, 2015).Improved Lucid Dreaming – A study underlined that waking up frequently during the night resulted in more reports of <a href='https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32768920/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>lucid dreaming</a>. <a href='https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/19750924/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>It means being aware that you are dreaming</a>. If you want to try lucid dreaming, consider following a polyphasic sleep schedule.Should You Try Polyphasic Sleep?There is no one answer to this question. Healthy individuals may try polyphasic sleep. However, stop following a polyphasic sleep schedule if you experience any adverse effects. Possible side effects of polyphasic sleep include accidents because of drowsiness, circadian rhythm disruption, decreased immunity, and increased susceptibility to physical, mental, and neurological disorders. Follow <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/5-tips-for-better-sleep'>some tips for better sleep</a> if you experience sleep deprivation because of polyphasic sleep.

Learn about the most common polyphasic sleep patterns and look at whether they’re safe, healthy or beneficial to mental health.

How Does Polyphasic Sleep Affect The Brain?

<div className="post-text mb-20 ">Polyphasic sleep refers to dividing periods of sleeping into naps alongside a less-than-eight-hour window of deep sleep ...</div>

Is Polyphasic Sleep Schedule Good For The Brain?

Sex should be consensual, pleasurable, and safe. This is why several questions pop up on period sex. So if you are wondering whether you should take the plunge during that time of the month, here’s a guide to help you gain clarity.Is It Good To Have Sex On Your Period?Yes, absolutely! The only reservation that could be there is your perception of hygiene. Some people may find period sex messy. Pain is another consideration. Sex during periods could be painful and uncomfortable for people who experience moderate to severe cramps when menstruating. However, if you menstruate normally, period sex may, in fact, have a few benefits.What Are The Benefits Of Period Sex? <ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>	Eases period pain When you go between the sheets, the big aha moment (orgasm it is!) may help alleviate menstrual pain. The contraction and release of uterine muscles during sex may help decrease period cramps.</li><li>Uplifts mood The release of endorphins during sex may help stabilize mood swings. Besides, <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/sex-is-key-element-of-intimacy'>having sex and building intimacy with your partner</a> are good distractions when dealing with menstrual cramps and discomfort.</li><li>Natural lubrication Period blood is a natural lubricant, making penetration easier by keeping your vagina moist. So, you can keep your lubes away when having intercourse during periods.</li><li>Relief from headache The lesser-known and surprising benefit of period sex is that it may help relieve headaches triggered by migraine. The National Migraine Centre <a href='https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/hormone-headaches/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>reports</a> that periods and migraine attacks may be linked. <a href='https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/23430983' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Also, sex may help alleviate headaches partially or completely</a>. Therefore, period sex might relieve menstrual migraines. </li></ul>What Are The Consequences Of Period Sex?Even though period sex is safe can be positive, it has a few downsides.<ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>It can create a mess The blood can stain the sheets and your partner’s nether regions, especially when you have a heavy flow. The smell of the period blood may also turn your partner off. A focus on making it less messy may make sex less enjoyable.</li><li>Risk of an infection The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention informs that sex during period increases the risk of getting or transmitting an STI. In addition, your period blood may carry and transmit the virus. Therefore, always use a condom to minimize such risks.</li><li>Less scope for trying different sex positions Oral sex, doggy style, and sixty-nine are a few sex positions you should avoid when menstruating. Instead, the good-old missionary style, spooning, and woman-on-top could be your best picks for maximum pleasure and minimum discomfort.</li></ul>More Tips For Sex During The PeriodThe first tip is to ensure that your partner is ready for sex during periods (and otherwise as well!). Avoid coersing him/her into sex if he/she has already said no. Other tips include removing the tampon before sex, keeping a disposable sheet underneath to avoid stains on the bedding, and taking a bath after sex.Remember, there are no hard and fast rules about having sex during periods. Consent, comfort level, and cleanliness are the three Cs to keep in mind for making period sex a positive experience.

Here's everything you need to know about period sex, including the benefits, safety measures, and tips for making it more enjoyable.

Things To Know About Having Sex During Period

<div className="post-text mb-20 ">Sex should be consensual, pleasurable, and safe. This is why several questions pop up on period sex. So if you are wondering whether you should take the plunge during that time of the month, here’s a guide to help you gain clarity....</div>

What You Should Know About Period Sex?

What Is Menopause? Does Menopause Make A Woman Look Old?Most are aware of the common symptoms of menopause like night sweats, mood swings, hot flashes, weight gain, sleep problems, and vaginal dryness. But did you know that menopause can also lead to changes in skin and hair health in a woman?Let us first try to understand why that happens. Menopause is a phase in a woman's life that begins 12 months after her menstrual cycle stops. It is a significant shift in her life as her body goes through a host of changes that may not be pleasant or, in some cases, tolerable.When a woman goes through perimenopause and ultimately menopause, the hormone levels in her body begin to fluctuate. The estrogen levels might suddenly decline or shoot up until it finally drops to zero. Estrogen is responsible for maintaining a woman's skin's elasticity and keeping it hydrated. So, when the levels of this hormone drop, it has a direct effect on her skin. It can become dry, thin, wrinkly, and saggy, thus making it appear older.How Does Menopause Change A Woman's Skin And Hair?Let’s outline what happens to our skin and hair as a result of menopause. We will then look self-care options to address them. <ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Skin sagging and wrinkles Women's skin swiftly loses collagen during menopause. The loss of <a href='https://www.webmd.com/skin-problems-and-treatments/ss/slideshow-collagen-and-your-body' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>collagen</a> is responsible for the skin losing its firmness and plumpness and the appearance of wrinkles.</li><li>Dryness and itching Dryness is one of women's biggest complaints during menopause. Because women's skin loses the ability to hold water, it can get quite dry, especially in areas with dry air. Moreover, their skin's pH levels also change, making the skin extra sensitive and irritable. It can cause rashes and itching.</li><li>Age spots and other skin damage The effects of spending excess time in the sun without proper sun protection will start showing in earnest in menopause. Age spots, also known as dark spots, may begin to appear on the face, hands, chest, or neck. In the worst-case scenario, there may also be chances of developing skin cancer.</li><li>Pimples and acne breakouts Menopause does not make your acne go away. While some women get acne all their lives, others may develop more teenage-like acne during their menopause due to a drop in estrogen levels in their bodies.</li><li>Facial hair The fall in levels of estrogen is also directly connected to an <a href='https://www.healthline.com/health/excessive-or-unwanted-hair-in-women' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>increase in facial hair growth</a>. As the hormones fall, women may notice hair on their chin, upper lip, or jawline.</li><li>Hair loss and thinning Estrogen is responsible for hair growth, density, and volume. As the estrogen levels drop during menopause, women start to notice increased hair fall, hair thinning, maybe even several patches of baldness, and deflated hair volume.</li></ul>How Can A Woman Improve Her Skin Health After Menopause?There are several changes in the skincare routine that women can make to care for their aging skin in menopause. <ul style='list-style: numeric;'><li>Choose the right cleanser As a woman's skin gets drier, using a foam or gel cleanser can accelerate the dryness. Instead, it is best to opt for a creamy cleanser that will hydrate the skin.</li><li>Constant hydration is key! Using hydrating moisturizers post bath on damp skin can help boost skin hydration. Moreover, switching the moisturizer for a heavy night cream is a great way to lock in moisture and keep the skin supple, soft, and hydrated.</li><li>Sunscreen is the holy grail Although your skin has gone through sun damage over the years, it doesn't end here. Your skin loses its natural protection by a considerable margin in menopause. Wearing a broad-spectrum sunscreen with an SPF of 30 or above can help keep the skin protected.</li><li>Eat healthy, workout, repeat <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/menopause-diet'>Eating foods</a> rich in antioxidants can boost collagen, which can help increase skin elasticity and hydration. Exercising and meditating can also help improve skin health by relieving stress and boosting blood circulation.</li><li>Sleep well Sleeping for 7-9 hours a day makes skin look fresh and healthy. It can also prevent dark circles and improve metabolism.</li><li>Try Supplements <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/product/dim'>DIM supplement for women</a> not only eases menopause symptoms but also helps manage menopause-induced skin issues (for example, acne).</li></ul>

Menopause causes many changes to your skin. However, with proper care, you can lessen these effects. Learn how to improve the menopause skin conditions here.

Tips For Better Skin After Menopause

<div className="post-text mb-20 ">What Is Menopause? Does Menopause Make A Woman Look Old?Most are aware of the common symptoms of menopause like night sweats, mood swings, hot flashes, weight ...</div>

What Are Menopause And Perimenopause?Perimenopause and menopause are stages in a woman’s life that denote the end of her fertility. Both these stages usually occur in her forties or fifties. However, the journey is unique to each woman and her hormonal cycle. While menopause is a concept that most women are aware of, perimenopause is not that common a term and is often confused with menopause.How To Know If It’s Perimenopause Or Menopause?It can be tough to differentiate perimenopause symptoms with that of menopause as they mostly overlap. However, there is a simple, clear distinction between the two. A woman is said to be menopausal at the date of her last period when she has crossed 12 months – not including her pregnancy cycle – without getting her period.On the other hand, perimenopause is the stage just preceding the menopause stage in a woman’s life. Peri means ‘around’ or ‘about.’ So, perimenopause is the stage around menopause, or the stage right before a woman is about to go into menopause. Perimenopause can last anywhere from a few months to four years.Perimenopause is when a woman’s ovaries produce fewer hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle. It can lead to shorter, erratic or irregular cycles. As a result, her fertility is at an all-time low. However, she may still get pregnant.There are two stages of perimenopause:Early-stage perimenopause: It is the stage when a woman’s menstrual cycle begins to get erratic. It is when her periods are delayed by a week or more in the course of several cycles or months.Late-stage perimenopause: When a woman faces a gap of 2 months or more between some menstrual cycles, she is said to have entered late-stage perimenopause.What Are Five Of The Most Common Symptoms Of Perimenopause?Symptoms of perimenopause and menopause are often the same and can be confusing to decipher. The five most common symptoms of perimenopause are:<ul><li>Irregular and erratic periods</li><li><a href='https://www.webmd.com/menopause/guide/menopause-hot-flashes' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Hot flashes</a></li><li><a href='https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/vaginal-dryness/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Vaginal dryness</a></li><li><a href='https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/mood-swings-in-women#summary' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Mood swings</a></li><li><a href='https://www.webmd.com/sleep-disorders/features/women-hormones-sleep-problems#:~:text=Hormonal%20changes%20can%20wreak%20havoc,more%20vulnerable%20to%20sleep%20problems.' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Sleep troubles</a></li></ul>Apart from these, a woman can also experience other symptoms like urinary urgency, weakening of bones, weight gain, reduced sex drive, forgetfulness, issues concentrating, and changes in cholesterol levels. All these symptoms are linked to a decrease in estrogen and progesterone levels in a woman’s body due to a fertility shift.Is Perimenopause Worse Than Menopause?Perimenopause is an inevitable stage a woman must cross to reach menopause. Since symptoms of both perimenopause and menopause are the same, there aren’t many differences in the intensity of the pain. However, perimenopause as a concept is not very common for a woman. When they go through symptoms of perimenopause, most women would not be able to understand if what they’re feeling is expected or if their body is undergoing significant hormonal changes. The confusion and anxiety add to the woes during the perimenopause stage.However, with advancements in science and technology, we have various sources of allopathic medicines and home remedies at our disposal that can help alleviate the symptoms of both perimenopause and menopause. Increased awareness and knowledge are crucial to asking the right questions and accessing the right treatment.What Is The Best Natural Remedy For Perimenopause?A woman can manage her perimenopausal symptoms through hormone therapy and certain doctor-recommended medications. However, she will also need to make a few lifestyle changes to stay healthy. Some home remedies are:<ul><li>Eating more fruits, vegetables, whole grains, healthy fats, and legumes</li><li>Performing exercises like walking, yoga, and strength training</li><li>Limiting alcohol and caffeine intake</li><li>Avoiding smoking</li><li>Meditation and other stress management techniques</li><li>Adopting healthy sleep practices</li><li>Taking supplements such as DIM (Diindolylmethane) and <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/product/maca'>MACA</a> root.</li></ul>Menopause Series by Dr. Sherina Fernandes:<a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/sleep-better-during-menopause'>Why Sleep Is Important for Women’s Health, Particularly Around Menopause</a><a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/menopause-diet'>How Diet Can Affect Your Health During Menopause</a><a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/menopause-body-changes'>What Is Menopause And What Is Happening To The Body?</a><a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/menopause-stress-management'>Why Stress Management Can Help With Menopause?</a>

Perimenopause and menopause are stages in a woman’s life that denote the end of her fertility. Here is a look at the difference between perimenopause and menopause.

What Is The Difference Between Perimenopause and Menopause Symptoms?

<div className="post-text mb-20 ">What Are Menopause And Perimenopause?Perimenopause and menopause are stages in a woman’s life ...</div>

What Is The Difference Between Perimenopause and Menopause?

Stress is a major cause of medical issues in both men and women, with 70% of primary care visits being related to stress and lifestyle. Interestingly, we have a normal biological process that has kept us safe since the beginning of time – our fight, flight or freeze response to an external event. We call it our stress response. An external “stressor” triggers the sympathetic drive of our autonomic nervous system, we produce hormones such as adrenaline (epinephrine) and cortisol from our adrenal glands, causing our heart rate, blood pressure and respiratory rate to rise and blood sugar to increase for energy. The result is that historically if there is danger, we can run away or fight. In nature, it happens all the time and is usually a short-term event. For example, an animal will either get away and will resume what it was doing before or will be caught, as referred to in Robert Sapolsky’s book “Why zebras don’t get ulcers”.Our stress response is very useful in situations of danger or for increasing focus and alertness short term. However, our modern busy lives are filled with overstimulation of our sympathetic nervous system because of how we process external events happening daily.The autonomic nervous system also has a parasympathetic nervous system, which is involved in most of our normal daily functions and is known as the “rest and digest” or “feed and breed” system. This is when the body performs many of its vital functions such as production of our sex hormones and digestion of our food.Stress And MenopauseWhen menopause starts, it is usually at a time in our life when there can be multiple life changing events happening as well. Women in their 40s and 50s are potentially caring not just for their own children but often parents too. It can be a time when a child is leaving home or family bereavement occurs due to losing parents. It is also a common time for relationship difficulties and divorce. At the same time, women are having fluctuating hormone levels, which leads to symptoms that mimic those when under stress – such as palpitations, hot flashes (hot flushes in UK), mood swings, heightened anxiety, anger/irritability, fatigue, poor sleep and depression.In other words, during perimenopause and menopause, women are already experiencing symptoms due to fluctuating hormone levels. If we are also experiencing chronic stress, our sympathetic nervous system is being activated more than normal. In this case, instead of producing sex hormones, we are producing (the hormones) adrenaline and cortisol. This further disruption of our sex hormones means that stress exacerbates the symptoms of menopause. Pre-menopause, the body has more sex hormones, as these hormones decrease coming into perimenopause and menopause, stress starts to have a greater effect.We can put our bodies under stress in many ways, not just from relationship issues, work stress, time pressures, etc. For example, a bad diet can cause inflammation in the body and is a form of stress. The consequence of prolonged exposure to stress is fatigue, weight gain, burnout and exhaustion.How Can We Deal With Stress During Menopause?There are multiple lifestyle changes that you can adopt to help deal with both stress and menopausal symptoms. Do not get overwhelmed; try a small change first and see how it helps, then add more changes. <ul>1. Diet A bad diet is a stressor for the body. It will not only make menopausal symptoms and the long-term consequences worse but also causes the body to adopt a “stressed” state. Processed foods high in carbohydrates and sugars cause an increase in inflammation and cortisol in the body. Please see my related blog for more on <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/menopause-diet'>diet during the menopause</a>.2. Exercise Exercise does wonders for stress control. It does not have to be gruelling or an activity that does not appeal to you. Find an exercise that is right for you. For example, it can be a form of dance or movement, a brisk walk out in nature, swimming, yoga or Pilates. Exercise deepens breathing and relieves muscle tension. Aim for 150 minutes of physical activity per week, doing something intense enough that you would not be able to sing but can still talk during the activity.3. Sleep Prioritise sleep like you would diet. Giving ourselves the opportunity for adequate rest helps us deal with stressful situations better. There are different stages of sleep that help us process traumatic events and stress more naturally. For more on sleep see my related blog - <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/sleep-better-during-menopause'>Why Sleep Is Important During The Menopause</a>4.	Stress reduction techniques <ul> <li>Meditation and deep breathing exercises – Meditation decreases the negative impact of stress and help shift your body back into the parasympathetic drive. Guided meditation can be a helpful start; there are multiple apps and online videos to help. There are also many types of mediation from breathing and relaxing exercises to body scans to loving kindness mediations. It is worth looking at each to see which is most helpful for you.There are numerous types of breathing exercises such as box breathing. Box breathing involves the following steps:<ul><li>Breathe in through your nose deeply and slowly for 4 seconds, and feel your lungs expand</li><li>Hold your breath there for 4 seconds</li><li>Slowly exhale for 4 seconds</li><li>Hold for 4 seconds and then repeat</li></ul>There are many deep breathing exercises to try, breathing into your belly and feeling it expand can be useful. Lengthening your outbreath can help calm anxiety and activate the parasympathetic nervous system.</li><li>Mindfulness- Mindfulness can be grouped with meditation. It is something most people can do easily, even if they do not like to meditate. If breathing exercises are not for you, find some calming music, close your eyes and just concentrate on that music, the notes, the words, the tones, etc. Try a mindful walk. Leave your phone at home. Go out into nature, feel the ground beneath you, listen to the sounds. Are there planes overhead? Can you hear birds singing? If there are trees or bushes, look at the patterns on the leaves. The repeating patterns of nature are known as A. Think about branching trees, ferns and acorns. Looking at fractals can decrease stress by as much as 60% according to studies. Take pleasure in some small routine you have such as savouring a morning coffee – look at how it looks, see the steam coming off, notice the smell and taste, and be in the moment.</p</li><li>Journaling/gratitude– Physically writing things down can be helpful to “offload” stressful thoughts. Also, starting to make a regular habit of writing down three things you are grateful for on a daily basis causes a shift in health behaviours. The more gratitude is practiced the more a shift in thinking happens.</li></ul>5. Social connection, i.e., talk/share/cultivate friendships An important predictor of happiness and longevity is social connectedness. Make sure to make time to see friends and family. Good levels of social support decreases anxiety and can activate the parasympathetic nervous system to help with calming stress.6. Plan your own time In addition to socializing, ensure you have time in the week for relaxation. A bath in the evening or a book, hobby or a fun class will help make life more enjoyable and the stressful times easier to handle. As they say, remember to fit your own oxygen mask before attending to others.</ul>In summary, menopause can be a stressful time. It can cause symptoms of stress such as palpitations, sweats, fatigue and depression. External stress can make these symptoms worse. If you feel you have a lot of stress in your life, then perimenopause and menopause are perfect times to start looking at your lifestyle to see what you can do to minimize stress and how you can best cope with stress. Doing so will help your overall wellbeing and will make a positive difference to your menopausal symptoms.<hr><a href='https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherina-jane-fernandes-9bb085163/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Dr. Sherina Fernandes</a>, MBBS, BSc, DCH, nMRCGP, IBLM, BSLM, is a lifestyle physician working as a clinical lead for a telehealth company in the UK. Her main interests are preventative medicine using a lifestyle approach, women's health and preventing burnout.

Women have a difficult time dealing with stress in midlife. To help deal with stress and menopausal symptoms, try making some lifestyle changes.

Tips To Manage Stress In Women During Menopause

<div className="post-text mb-20 ">Stress is a major cause of medical issues in both men and women, with 70% of primary care visits being related to stress and ...</div>

Why Stress Management Can Help With Menopause?

<a href='https://www.womenshealth.gov/a-z-topics/polycystic-ovary-syndrome#:~:text=Polycystic%20ovary%20syndrome%20(PCOS)%20is,and%20treatable%20cause%20of%20infertility.' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>One in ten women in the US suffers from polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS)</a>. It means they suffer from occasional or no ovulation, which causes irregular periods, weight gain, hirsutism, and difficulty conceiving. However, treatment helps with these issues, and many women start ovulating when they take steps to manage PCOS. Before discussing whether you are ovulating with PCOS, let us begin with the basics. What Is Ovulation?Ovulation refers to the ovaries releasing an egg to prepare women’s body for pregnancy. It occurs mid-cycle, i.e., on the 14th day of the 28-day cycle. Each month, the follicle-stimulating hormone causes follicles in one of a woman’s ovaries to mature between days six and fourteen of the menstrual cycle. When the 14th day of the menstrual cycle arrives, the luteinizing hormone rises and causes the ovary to release its egg. The egg starts its five-day passage through the fallopian tube to the uterus. As the egg passes through the fallopian tube, the progesterone level rises, which makes the uterine lining ready for pregnancy. What Is The Link Between Ovulation And PCOS?Women with polycystic ovary syndrome, or PCOS, suffer from an <a href='https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4947298/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>imbalance of hormones</a>. It causes the <a href='https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/pcos/symptoms-causes/syc-20353439' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>ovaries to enlarge and develop cysts on the outer edges of the ovaries</a>. These cysts inhibit the maturation and release of eggs (ovulation) every month, leading to irregular periods, fertility issues, and other health problems. Do Women With PCOS Ovulate?They do. However, quite irregularly. That is why lifestyle changes and medication are essential to reestablishing healthy ovulation. <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/product/inositol'>Dietary supplements</a> may also help reset and regularize the ovulation cycle. However, getting ovulation and the menstrual cycle back on track is not a one-night miracle. <a href='https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/polycystic-ovary-syndrome-pcos/treatment/#:~:text=Improvement%20may%20be%20seen%204,after%20treatment%20with%20this%20medicine.'target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>It takes time</a>. Consequently, many women stay focused on the status of their ovulation cycle even after starting the treatment for PCOS. Tracking your monthly cycle is the solution to this problem, especially when trying to conceive. How To Track Ovulation With PCOS?A lot of women wonder “how to predict ovulation with PCOS?” Using an <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/'>mhealth app to track your monthly cycle</a> is one way. It automatically predicts the day of ovulation once you enter the basic details, for example, last period, length of cycle, type of period flow (light, medium, heavy), etc. Besides, the following methods can also help you know if you are ovulating.<ul>1. <a href='https://www.healthline.com/health/pregnancy/basal-body-temperature' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Basal body temperature (BBT) measurement</a> Monitor your body temperature daily after waking up. Women experience an increase of about 0.5 degrees Fahrenheit after ovulation. This rise in BBT stays constant for at least three days.2. <a href='https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/body/22255-luteinizing-hormone' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Luteinizing hormone (LH) test</a> A surge in LH in urine indicates that ovulation is around the corner. It is indicated by a color change on the over-the-counter available predictor kits. Conduct this test mid-cycle. If the results show a spike in LH, ovulation should occur within 24 to 40 hours.3. Progesterone level test Progesterone, a female sex hormone, shoots up after ovulation. So, a simple blood test one week after the mid-cycle phase can predict if you have ovulated.4.	Transvaginal ultrasound A more accurate option is to visit your gynecologist and get a transvaginal ultrasound. This imaging test is performed in the middle of your cycle and detects a dominant follicle (ovarian cyst with an egg inside). The image also helps your doctor see if the uterine lining formation is going the correct way. </ul>Ovulation is a crucial stage of a healthy menstrual cycle. If your periods are on and off or you are facing pregnancy-and-PCOS-linked issues, contact an OBGYN at the earliest.

Irregular periods in polycystic ovary syndrome or PCOS can make tracking ovulation difficult. Know how to easily understand and predict whether you are ovulating with PCOS.

How To Know If You Are Ovulating Regularly With PCOS?

<div className="post-text mb-20 ">One in ten women in the US suffers from polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS). It means they suffer from occasional ...</div>

How To Know If You Are Ovulating With PCOS?

Breasts symbolize femininity, motherhood, sexuality, and sensuality, and they have a growth story too. Want to know about the breast changes that occur with age? Continue reading to learn some interesting facts.What Are Normal Changes In Breasts?The growth of breasts with age is a natural process. Women’s breasts undergo several changes at different life stages. Normal breast changes include their growth, change in their shape and size, and gradual loss of firmness at later stages, all driven by hormonal shifts as women age. Here’s some detailed information to help you understand your boobs better. Prepuberty and teen yearsUsually, breast development starts between the ages of 8 to 13, when the ovaries begin to produce and secrete the female sex hormone estrogen. It gradually leads to fat deposition in the connective tissue and causes the breasts to grow bigger. A girl’s breasts grow fully by age 17 or 18. However, in girls with delayed puberty, breast development may continue up till their early twenties. Some common signs breasts are growing are:<ul><li>Development of breast buds, i.e., slight swelling under the nipple, </li><li>Tenderness and soreness </li><li>Rounder and fuller appearance</li><li>Darkened areola and nipples start showing </li></ul>Sometimes, one breast may develop faster than the other but evens out with time. However, a slight difference in the size and shape of breasts is normal.In the 20sDuring this decade, your breasts embrace many changes, depending on the weight, pregnancy, and hormonal shifts. For example, your breast size may change if you lose or gain significant weight. If you choose to get pregnant, the areolas get darker, and nipples enlarge as they become lactation-ready. However, breasts return to their pre-pregnancy shape, size, and color post-delivery. Fibrocystic changes are also common in women in their 20s. These are characterized by benign lumps that develop because of changes in the menstrual cycle. Swelling and soreness in one or both breasts are common signs of fibrocystic changes. In the 30sPregnancy-related weight changes make your breast a favorite canvas for stretch marks. Besides, you may notice drooping and looseness in your breasts because of altered fat deposition during pregnancy. However, nulliparous women retain much of their breasts’ firmness and elasticity. In addition, fibrocystic developments continue in these years. However, it is sensible to go for a <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/5-steps-of-breast-self-examination'>breast exam</a> if changes are discomforting, persistent, and noticeable. In the 40s and 50sSo, what do aging breasts look like? The changes that start in the 40s and 50s are the answer. Perimenopause begins in the 40s. As estrogen declines, breasts undergo involution. It refers to the replacement of breast tissue with fat, which makes the breasts softer and looser. This process starts in the early 40s and continues until the 50s when menopause begins. The loss of collagen because of estrogen decline also plays a role in making your breasts sag. Women should be alert to changes in their breasts during these years and continue going for breast screenings regularly. Regardless of your life stage, remember to take care of your breasts by exercising regularly and keeping an eye on significant breast changes.

Changes to breasts are a normal part of aging in women. Learn the interesting facts about the breast changes that occurs with age.

What Are the Breast Changes That Occur With Age In Women?

<div className="post-text mb-20 ">Breasts symbolize femininity, motherhood, sexuality, and sensuality, and they have a growth story too. Want to know about the ...</div>

What Are the Breast Changes That Occur With Age?

We spend 1/3rd of our lives sleeping and we all need 7-9 hours of good quality sleep each night. What I write next applies to everyone, male and female, Sleep is vital to us all, but levels of insomnia in women are higher than in the general population so let’s look at why and how to address this. We have five different stages of sleep; REM (rapid eye movement) sleep—when we dream—and non-REM sleep with four stages of light sleep and deep sleep. Deep sleep and REM sleep are essential for us to function.Why Is Sleep Important?When we sleep, we need less energy so the body uses this energy to restore and repair. During deep sleep, a number of processes occur in the body, such as DNA repair and remodelling (DNA contains our genetic code and is responsible for how we grow develop and function). We also make proteins at this time. Hence poor sleep and lack of sleep are associated with cancer—a correlation has been found with breast, endometrial, prostate, colorectal cancer and acute myeloid leukaemia. Sleep quality also affects our hormones.During sleep, our bodies relax and so our blood pressures and heart rates decrease. We get more blood flowing to our extremities and our core body temperature cools. This all helps protect our cardiovascular system. Accordingly, poor sleep causes raised blood pressure, increased risk of heart attacks and cardiovascular disease deaths such as stroke.During REM sleep, cognitive processing takes place so we have enhanced learning and memory, it also helps us cope with fear and anxiety; poor sleep correlates with anxiety and depression. Premenstrual syndrome and post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is worsened if sleep deprived 2 weeks prior to a traumatic event.What Drives Sleep?During the day, we have a build-up of a substance called adenosine, which causes sleepiness. We also have our body’s internal body clock known as the circadian rhythm which is influenced by how much light and the type of light we are exposed to, when and what we have eaten, when and if we exercise, and our body temperature. This internal body clock is controlled by a part of the brain known as the suprachiasmatic nucleus in the hypothalamus. The light we are exposed to affects the production of the hormone melatonin which promotes sleep. We need our core body temperature to drop at night; the body does this by vessels at our extremities dilating (widening to allow more blood flow) so that heat goes from our core to extremities.Why Sleep Is Important During The Menopause?During the perimenopause and menopause, we have less sex hormones. Less estrogen and testosterone cause multiple symptoms (see blog on “<a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/menopause-body-changes'>What is the menopause and what is happening to the body</a>”). Less progesterone causes less of the chemical messenger Gamma- aminobutyric acid (GABA), which has sleep enhancing effects and helps with stress reduction.When we sleep our stress hormones decrease significantly, so hormones such as cortisol are affected by poor sleep which in turn affects estrogen, progesterone and thyroid hormone production. Weight can be an issue during the menopause and there are hunger hormones called leptin and ghrelin which are influenced by sleep.Leptin is a hormone named from the Greek word “leptos” which means “slender”. It signals the body to feel full and so this hormone stops us from feeling hungry. Leptin is produced during sleep so you are less likely to over-eat if sleeping well as leptin will be produced in higher quantities. Ghrelin is the hunger hormone that drives you to eat. Poor sleep leads to an imbalance of leptin and ghrelin and is associated with eating more and increased body weight. Better sleep also means enhanced insulin sensitivity and you are less likely to develop type 2 diabetes.With symptoms such as hot flashes (hot flushes in UK) or night sweats, it can be harder to get to sleep but as we need to control our risk for cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s disease (higher risk in post-menopausal women), it is important to try and prioritise sleep. It will help to control our symptoms, weight gain and make us feel more rested as well as reduce our risk of longer-term issues.How Can I Get Better Sleep?In our modern world and busy lives with TV, screens and lighting everywhere, we can be going against our natural body clock. As a result, it is vital for both men and women to prioritise sleep just as much as diet and exercise when it comes to our health.The first step is consistency. There is no such thing as making up for lost sleep on the weekend. You should aim to go to bed and wake up at the same time each day. Provide yourself with the opportunity to get 7-9 hours sleep per night.Have a wind down routine. Remember your body clock and light. Avoid screens before bed (the blue light from them will inhibit melatonin production), consider blue light blocking glasses if working late or turn the lights down dim or consider candlelight for a relaxing atmosphere. Consider a sleep mask or use black out curtains to keep the room dark. Remember temperature. Keep your bedroom cool. We need our core body temperature to drop to initiate sleep, so exercising right before bed is not the best idea. A warm bath helps as it shifts heat from your core to extremities helping us cool down. Yoga and meditation help with sleep as they decrease our sympathetic nervous system and so again blood gets shunted from your core to extremities so we cool down centrally. There is also reduced heart rate and energy expenditure following yoga and meditation.To help your body clock, try to get some natural light first thing in the morning, it can be better to exercise earlier in the day, but exercise in general will help with deep sleep if it is not before bed. It increases core body temperature—meaning it may take longer to cool down and fall asleep.Avoid large meals later in the evening, particularly carbohydrate rich meals, always try to eat at least 2-3 hours before you go to bed if possible. Keep well hydrated during the day.Avoid caffeine and alcohol. Not only doing so is important for menopausal symptoms, but also caffeine blocks adenosine which builds up during the day to produce the sleep drive. Therefore, avoid caffeine from the afternoon onwards. Alcohol interferes with sleep quality, so although you may feel it helps you get to sleep, poorer sleep quality is the result. Caffeine and alcohol also decrease the absorption of magnesium. Magnesium helps sleep by activating the parasympathetic nervous system and helps regulate melatonin. Nuts and seeds such as almonds, cashews, pumpkin seeds and spinach are rich in magnesium (see blog on “<a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/menopause-diet'>How diet can affect your health during the menopause</a>” for more on diet). Daytime naps can be good, provided they are of a short duration (20-30 mins) and can be helpful if one feels sleepy. However, they should only occur in the first half of the day, i.e., not after 3pm ideally. Remember the sleep drive and build-up of adenosine; having a nap too close to bedtime will interfere with that build up and make it harder to fall asleep. This will lead to less sleep and poorer quality sleep so keep the naps for earlier in the day.Women Need Better Sleep During The MenopausePoor sleep leads to hormone imbalance. The consequences of poor sleep are:<ul><li>Twice as likely to have a higher body mass index indicative of obesity (i.e., BMI 30 or higher).</li><li>Increased risk of type 2 diabetes</li><li>More likely to develop Metabolic syndrome (a combination of high blood pressure, diabetes, etc. leading to complications)</li><li>Higher risk of cardiovascular disease (heart attack, stroke and hypertension)</li><li>Poor mood (e.g., anxiety) and depression</li><li>Poor memory and risk of Alzheimer’s disease</li><li>Increased correlation of certain cancers, e.g., breast, endometrial and colorectal cancer</li></ul>Postmenopausal women already have a higher risk of cardiovascular disease and Alzheimer’s so it is important to prioritise sleep. Now on to the benefits of a good night’s sleep:<ul><li>Clears toxins (i.e., deep sleep)</li><li>Clears amyloid which has been linked to Alzheimer’s disease. </li><li>Helps to consolidate new memories</li><li>Leads to better mood</li><li>Improves memory and focus</li><li>Enhances libido</li><li>Improves hormone regulation</li><li>Enhances cardiovascular health </li><li>Reduces risk of cancers</li><li>Reduces inflammation</li><li>Helps with weight reduction</li></ul>It can be hard to sleep due to the hormonal changes and symptoms of low estrogen but making some lifestyle changes with diet, exercise and taking some of the steps above can help to improve sleep which will in turn help with menopausal symptoms. <hr><a href='https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherina-jane-fernandes-9bb085163/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Dr. Sherina Fernandes</a>, MBBS, BSc, DCH, nMRCGP, IBLM, BSLM, is a lifestyle physician working as a clinical lead for a telehealth company in the UK. Her main interests are preventative medicine using a lifestyle approach, women's health and preventing burnout.

Women's sleep problems during menopause are caused by hormonal changes. Let's look at some steps for sleep improvement that can help with menopausal symptoms.

Why Is Sleep Important for Women During Menopause?

<div className="post-text mb-20 ">We spend 1/3rd of our lives sleeping and we all need 7-9 hours of good quality sleep each night. What I write next applies to ...</div>

Why Sleep Is Important for Women’s Health, Particularly Around Menopause

The average age for menopause is 51 years old. We spend a third of our lives in the post-menopausal phase. Menopause and its symptoms can have a huge effect on our lives so it is important to understand what is going on in our bodies and what we can do to help make this transition easier. What Are The 3 Stages Of Menopause?A woman is born with a set number of follicles in her ovaries. Follicles are fluid filled sacs that contain an egg; they produce estrogen. When puberty hits, these eggs are released (ovulation) and the monthly cycles (periods) start. Over time, as these follicle numbers decrease, estrogen levels fall until the periods eventually stop. This is a gradual change over many years.As the levels of estrogen start to fluctuate, symptoms can start to appear. This is perimenopause. The average age for perimenopause is around 47 years old but can start anytime from late 30’s. This stage lasts around 4 years on average. Finally, menopause is when periods stop. We have reached menopause once we have not had a period for 1 year. So, menopause is 1 date in time and is only known 1 year after the date of our last period. Following this date, we are said to be post-menopausal. As previously mentioned, the average age of menopause is 51 years old.What Are The Physical Changes In The Body During Perimenopause And Menopause?We have estrogen receptors in all the tissues in our body and so estrogen influences every organ in the body. For example, our skin, hair, nails and even our eyes are influenced by estrogen; dryness is common.In the brain, oestrogen, along with other hormones, has an influence on temperature control memory and libido. It helps to regulate serotonin (the hormone that makes us “happy”). Thus, low or fluctuating estrogen can cause a variety of symptoms like mood swings, irritability, “brain fog” and memory lapses. A decline in estrogen causes aging of our neurons and aids in the formation of amyloid plaques which can be associated with Alzheimer’s disease.In the heart, estrogen influences heart rate by a variety of mechanisms. It also influences the lining of our blood vessels. In the liver, estrogen helps with cholesterol regulation and in the nervous system, estrogen aids and influences the transmission of signals. Taking all this into account explains why we have symptoms of hot flashes (hot flushes in the UK), heat intolerance, night sweats and palpitations. The loss of the protective effects of estrogen on the lining of our blood vessels and the poorer cholesterol regulation that comes with lower estrogen means there is a staggering 5 times increased risk of heart disease at menopause (if we do not make changes to our lifestyles).In the joints and muscles, estrogen has an anti-inflammatory effect and aids muscle strength, flexibility and joint lubrication. Thus, stiff or aching joints or muscles is a common symptom in perimenopause and menopause.In the bowel, estrogen helps to maintain function and works with our own bacteria in the gut (the gut microbiome). Thus, bloating, constipation and symptoms of irritable bowel syndrome are also common during perimenopause and menopause.In the bladder, estrogen helps to control bladder function and decreases the risk of infection by various mechanisms. At the vagina, it aids lubrication and reduces bacterial overgrowth. Thus, low estrogen can lead to symptoms such as incontinence (loss of bladder control), recurrent urinary tract infections, and vaginal dryness and soreness.In our bones, oestrogen supports the cells that build up bone strength. Our bone mass peaks at the age of 30 years; it stays static for 10 years and then starts to decline. In women, this decline accelerates as we lose the protective effects of estrogen and so 1 in 2 women develop osteoporosis in menopause.How To Cope With Menopausal Changes?As detailed above, perimenopausal symptoms range from hot flashes, mood swings, memory loss, palpitations, vaginal dryness to even dry eyes. There are long term effects on our health particularly our heart, bones and brain health. The way we breakdown fat is different; thus, we may be more prone to weight gain, especially if we become less active as we get older. Lean body mass goes down and our metabolism starts to slow down.We have the power to help ourselves with proper lifestyle changes. While hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can be lifechanging for some women, it is important that every woman examines her lifestyle, whether using HRT or not.Diet can have a big impact on short term symptoms of menopause, as well as the long-term complications. Avoiding processed foods and increasing our intake of natural estrogens known as phytoestrogens can help. These can be found in soy products, chickpeas, lentils, grains, flaxseeds, fruits and vegetables. Changing our diet will not only help with weight control but also has an impact on bone, heart and brain health. For more on diet, see my blog titled “<a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/menopause-diet'>How Diet Can Affect Your Health During Menopause</a>”Sleep and prioritising sleep is another essential way of helping our health, particularly around the time of the menopause. This can be difficult, especially if we are experiencing night sweats and hot flashes. Having a regular bedtime routine with a winddown before bed (such as a bath or yoga) can be helpful. Exercising earlier in the day and getting natural light first thing in the morning can also help.Exercise and physical activity will not only help with keeping our weight under control, but also helps with sleep. Exercise can also help with mood if we are feeling low with fluctuating hormones. Exercise or physical activity doesn’t need to be exhausting to be effective; 150 minutes of activity a week is the recommended amount. The intensity should be strenuous enough that one is able to still talk but not sing.Stress management can also make a difference to our symptoms. We have a “fight or flight” mechanism in our bodies. When we are under stress, we activate our sympathetic nervous system and produce hormones such as cortisol and adrenaline (epinephrine). These hormones raise our heart rate and blood pressure, as well as increasing sugar levels in the blood. While these effects are very useful if under threat of a predator, they are not so great if we are under chronic stress. Accordingly, they don’t help women with symptoms of palpitations and hot flashes. The opposite pathway (when we are not stressed) is our parasympathetic nervous system. The phrases “rest and digest” or “feed and breed” can be used here. The parasympathetic nervous system drives our sex hormones, so it is particularly important if they are already low. Deep breathing exercises, meditation, mindfulness yoga, thai chi or even just setting aside time to close the eyes and listen to relaxing music can help lower stress. A brisk walk, particularly in nature, can also make a huge difference. Social support and setting time aside to rest and to find meaningful social relationships can also help with stress management.SummaryPerimenopause and menopause are stages in life when there can be lots going on in one’s life, e.g., children leaving home, relationship difficulties/divorce, caring for elderly parents or bereavement. It is crucial as women that we learn to look after ourselves. As we learn and understand what is going on in our body, we can take measures to overcome symptoms or help to cope with them.As detailed above, a wide range of symptoms can be experienced during menopause; our bodies are changing. However, we are not powerless against these changes. Aside from HRT, there are a lot of lifestyle changes we can make. Looking after our diet, ensuring we keep active, prioritising sleep and stress management are key to a longer happier and healthier life.<hr><a href='https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherina-jane-fernandes-9bb085163/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Dr. Sherina Fernandes</a>, MBBS, BSc, DCH, nMRCGP, IBLM, BSLM, is a lifestyle physician working as a clinical lead for a telehealth company in the UK. Her main interests are preventative medicine using a lifestyle approach, women's health and preventing burnout.

Body shape changes are one of the physical changes associated with menopause and ageing. In this article, learn how menopause can affect your body.

How Does Your Body Change During Menopause?

<div classNameName="post-text mb-20 ">The average age for menopause is 51 years old. We spend a third of our lives in the post-menopausal phase. Menopause and its ...</div>

 What Is Menopause And What Is Happening To The Body?

Before discussing the best diet for menopausal women, it is important to first understand what is happening during this stage of life. When a female is born, her ovaries have a set number of follicles (the small sac that contains a developing egg). It is these developing follicles that produce estrogen. Over time as a woman ages, the number of follicles become less and less, so her oestrogen levels fall and eventually her periods will stop. This is a gradual transition, and we refer to the perimenopause as this time (i.e., when estrogen levels fall). The average age for perimenopause is 47 years old but can happen from late 30s and usually lasts around 4 years. Once periods stop, this is menopause. The menopause is 1 date in time and is exactly 1 year after the date of a woman’s last period. After this time, you are post-menopausal. The average age of menopause is 51 years old.As well as all the wide range of symptoms experienced, low estrogen levels also have long-term health effects on the body: <ul> <li>Bone Health: 50% of women will develop osteoporosis (weak/fragile bones) during this stage of life as they do not have the protective effects of estrogen anymore.</li><li>Heart and vascular health: low estrogen levels mean less protection on the lining of blood vessels and poorer cholesterol regulation. Weight gain is common and there is a higher risk of heart disease at this time.</li><li>Brain Health: women are more likely to develop Alzheimer’s disease than men. The decline in estrogen can cause aging of our neurones (the information messengers in the brain) and aid in the formation of plaques that are associated with Alzheimer’s disease.</li></ul>There is good news though!! Women are not helpless against these changes. As well as medical treatment with Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT), there are a number of effective lifestyle measures that can be taken, which range from diet and exercise to sleep prioritisation and stress management. For this article we will concentrate on diet.Can diet affect menopause symptoms?Yes! Not only can diet help with menopausal symptoms but it is essential to look at diet at this time of life to help protect against the long-term effects of these hormone changes.Phytoestrogens are naturally occurring compounds found in foods, plants and herbs that produce similar but slightly weaker effects to oestrogen in some tissues. (They also can block its effects in others, depending on the bodies needs, and are referred to as “selective estrogen receptor modulators”). There are many types but the main ones are:<ul> <li>ISOFLAVONES: found in soya beans, chickpeas, legumes and red clover.</li><li>LIGNANS: found in flaxseeds, wholegrains, fruits and vegetables.</li></ul>Studies have shown geographical variations of menopausal symptoms, especially hot flashes (hot flushes in the UK). Only 18% of women in China and 25% of women in Japan experience hot flashes compared to 75% of women in the USA and 73% of women in the UK. The reason is thought to be due to the high soy content in the traditional Asian diet. Over the years as their diet has become more westernised, the differences are narrowing. Previously, there was not a Japanese word for “hot flashes”; it is a relatively new concept for Japanese women.What food is best for menopause? There are many foods that need to be increased during this stage of a woman’s life. It is good to look at Soy protein at this stage. Soy is a complete plant protein containing all 9 amino acids and is rich in fibre, vitamins, minerals and high in polyunsaturated fats – all essential particularly at menopause. As well as helping with hot flashes, it also weakly occupies estrogen receptors in the bone which contributes to lower levels of osteoporosis seen in women consuming more soy.It is safe to eat. While there were previous studies associating it with cancer, the studies looked at genetically modified soy used to feed cattle. We now know that soy actually blocks estrogen receptors in the breast and early intake of soy may have a protective effect against future breast cancer. Foods containing soy include tofu, tempeh, edamame beans, chickpeas, soy milks and soy yoghurts.As detailed before, the other source of phytoestrogens are lignans for which good sources come from seeds (flax, pumpkin, sunflower), wholegrains (oats) beans, fruits (especially berries), vegetables (cruciferous like broccoli, kale, cabbage and cauliflower).Menopause is a stage in life when women can look at what they can do for their health. A diet rich in wholegrains fruits and vegetables is important. These foods will give you the fibre, B vitamins, calcium, magnesium and other vitamins and minerals important at this time. On another front, did you know we have over 100 trillion microorganisms in our gut called the microbiome? More is being discovered about how these organisms have an influence on our health from how we handle food (e.g., why someone can eat and eat and still stay thin!) to our mood and our risk of disease. The more diverse our microbiome (the more different types of bacteria in the gut), the healthier we are. For women, there are a collection of microbes within the microbiome that effect the metabolism (i.e., how we break down and use) of estrogen. There are certain bacteria—equol producers—found in higher numbers of women who have more fibre in their diet. Eating soy has a much greater effect on menopausal symptoms if you have more equol producing bacteria in your microbiome.Another way to help look at food is the colour. The more colourful your plate with fresh fruit and vegetables, the better. The colours in the food contain phytochemicals and each colour has beneficial effects on your body. (Think red tomato, orange carrot, yellow pepper, green broccoli, blue blueberries and purple grapes—try and have every colour, every day!).For your brain – flavonoids from berries, green leafy vegetables, nuts, seeds, seafood and wholegrains are important. Healthy fats like omega 3 are also important. Having some flax/linseeds over wholegrain cereal or with soy yoghurt and berries would be a great source of daily omega 3.Which foods could make menopause worse? Foods to avoid at this time in life would be processed foods. In particular, processed carbohydrates and sugars. Processed carbs such as white bread, white rice, white pasta often contain less nutrients and cause large spikes in blood sugar levels. There is already a risk of weight gain due to low estrogen and processed carbs, and sugars make this worse.In keeping with this, saturated fats should be avoided to minimise the risk of weight gain and heart disease, along with other health consequences.We know that being overweight actually makes menopause symptoms worse. Fat cells contain estrogen but the more you have, the greater the fluctuation on your estrogen levels and the worse your symptoms. Also, being overweight greatly increases your risk of heart disease, cancer and Alzheimer’s disease. Losing weight by looking at diet will help with controlling menopause symptoms.It may be unpopular, but cutting down or stopping alcohol and caffeine can also help to control symptoms such as hot flashes or palpitations during the menopause.Menopause diet plan summary A good diet can help both with the symptoms of menopause and with the long-term effects so that every woman can live a longer and healthier life.A whole food diet avoiding processed carbs and sugars is essential. Remember to try and include some of those foods rich in phytoestrogens – tofu, tempeh, chickpeas, edamame beans, seeds whole grains beans and berries.Foods rich in calcium include the tofu, tempeh and soybeans above as well as low oxalate leafy greens such as bok choy and kale.Healthy fats – seeds – flax, chia, hemp, walnuts, seaweed, nori, spirulina or oily fish such as salmon and mackerel.In general, make your plate as colourful as possible with lots of fruits and vegetables in your diet. This will keep your gut bacteria happy and your body healthy and hopefully minimise your menopausal symptoms and protect your long-term health.<hr><a href='https://www.linkedin.com/in/sherina-jane-fernandes-9bb085163/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Dr. Sherina Fernandes</a>, MBBS, BSc, DCH, nMRCGP, IBLM, BSLM, is a lifestyle physician working as a clinical lead for a telehealth company in the UK. Her main interests are preventative medicine using a lifestyle approach, women's health and preventing burnout.

A variety of lifestyle changes can make unpleasant symptoms more tolerable during menopause. Learn about the foods that can help with menopausal symptoms here.

Menopause Diet – What To Eat And What To Avoid?

<div classNameName="post-text mb-20 ">Before discussing the best diet for menopausal women, it is important to first understand what is happening during this stage ...</div>

 How Diet Can Affect Your Health During Menopause

Well! Speaking evidentially, yes. What you put on the skin may affect hormones. The Central for Disease Control and Prevention's report titled <a href='https://www.cdc.gov/biomonitoring/pdf/fourthreport_updatedtables_feb2015.pdf'target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>'Fourth National Report on Human Exposure to Environmental Chemicals'</a> underlines that an average person in the US has at least 212 chemicals in their urine and blood. A few other <a href='https://www.bcpp.org/resource/hormones-in-personal-care-products/'target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>pieces of research</a> show that some skin or hair care products may lead to early puberty or early sexual maturation and increase <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/guide-breast-cancer-treatment'>breast cancer risk</a> later in life. So, what happens when the chemicals in beauty products impact our hormones? Our endocrine system that regulates several biological processes, including reproduction and metabolism, goes haywire. A malfunctioning endocrine system can trigger many diseases such as diabetes, hyperthyroidism, hypothyroidism, PCOS/PCOD, Cushing's Syndrome, and Acromegaly.How Do Skin Care Products Affect Women's Hormone Health?The skin is the body's largest organ and systemically absorbs whatever we apply to it. Typically, the liver 'biotransforms' chemicals absorbed topically or environmentally, detoxifying the body. However, certain chemicals still get absorbed into the bloodstream and interfere with hormonal functions, thus adding to the body's toxicity load. These chemicals, whether synthetic or natural, are known as <a href='https://www.niehs.nih.gov/health/topics/agents/endocrine/index.cfm'target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>endocrine disruptors</a>. They mimic the body's natural hormones and disturb the production, release, metabolization, binding, action, or removal of the body's natural hormones. Endocrine disruption messes up the messages that natural hormones send from one cell to another. Usually, hormones attach to hormone receptors like a lock and key. When the key is right, it unlocks the message to regulate body functions. Hormone disruptors also follow the same process but transfer the wrong messages. Take phthalates (a chemical found in many <a href='https://www.fda.gov/cosmetics/cosmetic-ingredients/phthalates'target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>cosmetics</a>) as an example. It targets testosterone as well as estrogen receptors. Even low-level but continuous exposure to <a href='https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7559247/'target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>phthalate increases the risk for fertility disorders and cancer. Phthalates</a> can also affect the release of hypothalamic, peripheral, and pituitary hormones.Though genetic, environmental, and lifestyle management also play a role in developing illnesses, exposure to products that cause hormonal imbalance is also a significant factor in developing <a href='https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2451965019300043'target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>reproductive disorders</a>, <a href='https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC7731339/'target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>breast and uterine cancer</a>, <a href='https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/30743143/'target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>immunity-related diseases</a>, and <a href='https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/24553011/'target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>neurological</a> diseases.What Skin Care Ingredients Are Hormone Disruptors? Here are the five most common hormone disruptors in skin care products you might be using every day. <ul> <li>Parabens: These ubiquitously found chemicals have been linked to breast cancer tumors. Types of parabens include propylparaben, methylparaben, benzylparaben, ethylparaben, butyiparaben, and isobutylparaben.</li><li>Phthalates: Frequently used but not mentioned on the labels, phthalates are often found in products listing 'fragrance' as one of the ingredients.</li><li>Triclosan: It is added as an antibacterial agent to soaps, handwashes, hand sanitizers, etc. However, triclosan has been marked as a hormone and a thyroid disruptor.</li><li>Hydroquinone: Yes! This holy grail for treating hyperpigmentation can hurt your skin in many ways. It reduces the skin's collagen and elastin wherever applied and may irritate your skin. In addition, some scientists believe that it is carcinogenic. </li><li>Oxybenzone: Many sunscreen lotions, creams, and gels contain oxybenzone, a chemical sunscreen. However, just because it is used commonly does not mean it is safe. It may cause skin allergies, eye irritation, affects estrogen production particularly in women, and testosterone levels in men.</li></ul>Though many skin care products contain hormonal disruptors, you may avoid these nasties by choosing clean skin care products. Besides, read labels carefully, and avoid buying products with unspecified ingredients (for example, 'base,'' 'fragrance') listed on them.

Hormone disruptors in beauty products may be harming your skin and health. When buying various personal care products, watch out for chemicals used in it.

How Skincare Products Affect Women's Hormone?

<div className="post-text mb-20 ">Well! Speaking evidentially, yes. What you put on the skin may affect hormones. The Central for Disease Control and Prevention's ...</div>

 Can Skin Care Products Affect Hormones?

Ever noticed a change in your poop routine before your periods? Well! That’s one example of female sex hormones (estrogen and progesterone) affecting your gut health. But, there’s more to hormone-gut interaction. Keep reading to understand how hormones impact your digestive health. What Are The Signs of an Unhealthy Gut?Knowing the signs of compromised gut health helps differentiate between hormone-led gut issues and changes because of an unhealthy gut. Common symptoms of poor gut health include:<ul> <li>Frequent bouts of gas, constipation, diarrhea, bloating </li><li>Sensitivity to certain foods</li><li>Weight changes despite a nutritious diet</li><li>Fatigue</li><li>Skin allergies</li><li>Lazy bowel syndrome</li><li>Autoimmune conditions</li><li><a href='https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/22724-leaky-gut-syndrome'target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>“Leaky” Gut Syndrome</a></li><li>	Obesity</li> </ul>Can Hormone Imbalance Cause Gut Problems? Yes, hormonal fluctuations or imbalances can influence the pace of food movement through the intestines, resulting in diarrhea or constipation. For example, low progesterone levels in post-menopausal women cause constipation. Similarly, the increase in estrogen and progesterone during the second phase of the menstrual cycle can cause stomach and digestive discomfort. How Does Hormonal Imbalance Lead to Gut Health Issues?Women experience hormonal shifts primarily during periods, pregnancy, and menopause. When your periods are almost a week away, <a href='https://www.healthline.com/health/constipated-before-period'target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>progesterone levels</a> rise and relax the colon. It results in constipation or a delay in achieving defecation reflex. Later, estrogen also hits bottom just before your periods, increasing the possibility of digestive issues. In most cases, these issues start resolving when your period begins. However, the release of <a href='https://www.refinery29.com/en-us/period-poop'target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>prostaglandins</a> that result in muscle contractions and pain during periods may induce diarrhea in some women.Similarly, elevated progesterone during pregnancy slows intestinal muscle contractions and makes pooping harder. When menopause occurs, estrogen and progesterone take a nosedive permanently. Consequently, post-menopausal women experience slow digestion, bloating, and constipation, among other symptoms. Does Gut Health Affect Hormones?Yes, <a href='https://www.frontiersin.org/articles/10.3389/fmicb.2021.711137/full'target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>gastrointestinal health affects hormones</a>. It is because gut flora (estrobolome) has a significant role in estrogen regulation. When healthy microorganisms no longer love living in your gut, estrogen production takes a hit. It may lead to low estrogen-related diseases such as PCOS. Alternatively, estrogen dominance may occur if gut dysbiosis causes excess <a href='https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28778332/'target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>beta-glucuronidase production</a>. The reabsorption of the unconjugated active form of estrogen back into the bloodstream (because of beta-glucuronidase) may lead to high estrogen-related diseases such as endometriosis and breast cancer.Gut health also helps maintain healthy cholesterol levels, which are associated with maintaining a balance of estrogen and progesterone.How Can I Balance My Hormones and Improve Gut Health?Restoring or <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/symptoms-ways-to-balance-hormones-naturally'>maintaining hormonal balance</a> and improving gut health are not one-time tasks. Besides clinical intervention, they require following a healthy lifestyle. Here are a few useful tips for you. <ul> <li>Drink 7-10 glasses of water every day. It hydrates the colon and eases the transit of stool through it.</li><li>Select a nutrient-rich, anti-inflammatory diet. </li><li>Include prebiotics in your diet to maintain healthy gut flora.</li><li>Limit the intake of refined sugar, simple carbs, trans fats, and salt. </li><li>Avoid artificial sweeteners; they adversely affect hormonal health and the gut microbiome. </li><li>Maintain a healthy weight. </li><li>Exercise regularly. </li> </ul>Gut health and hormonal imbalance share a two-way relationship. Hormonal ups and downs can affect your gut health, and a gut microbiome imbalance can lead to hormonal vicissitudes. Therefore, caring for both is the best way to achieve optimum health.

There is a link between gut health and hormones. Hormones become unbalanced when gut health is poor. Learn how to naturally balance your hormones and improve your gut health.

How Hormonal Imbalance Impacts Gut health in Women?

<div className="post-text mb-20 ">Ever noticed a change in your poop routine before your periods? Well! That’s one example of female sex hormones (estrogen ...</div>

 How Hormones Affect Gut Health?

Sexist jokes revolve around mood swings experienced by women before and during periods. However, the feelings of despair, general discontent, anxiety, insomnia, and lack of concentration are real and arise from hormonal fluctuations. So, what exactly is the connection between mental health and the menstrual cycle? Read this blog to find out. Can Menstrual Cycle Affect Mental Health?Well! You know the answer better. How will you describe your mental health during periods? What about your mental health status during the premenstrual phase? <a href='https://www.tandfonline.com/doi/abs/10.1080/13811118.2018.1430638' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Research</a> suggests that the premenstrual and premenstrual phases of the cycle are associated with the onset of health symptoms, including the symptoms of <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/importance-of-womens-mental-health'>mental health for women</a>. </a>Why Is Understanding Mental Health And Menstrual Cycles Important?Understanding the mental health-related aspects of women's reproductive health helps you objectively look at your period-related mental health symptoms and manage them effectively. Knowing how hormonal shifts affect our brains and emotions empowers you to gradually take control of how you feel when Aunt Flo pays a visit.How do Hormones Affect Mood During The Menstrual Cycle?Estrogen and progesterone are the two directors when your reproductive cycle casts you in the monthly release of the shark week. This relationship between the ovarian hormones and brain chemistry determines your premenstrual and menstrual experience. Let us understand this process. Neurotransmitters, namely, serotonin, dopamine, and norepinephrine, regulate your mood. <a href='https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC4335177/' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>Estrogen and progesterone play a significant role in their synthesis</a>. For example, estrogen increases serotonin production, serotonin receptor levels, and sensitivity to serotonin receptors. However, when estrogen drops during the second phase of the menstrual cycle, i.e., after ovulation, serotonin levels also decrease. It causes irritability, sadness, crying spells, disturbed sleep patterns, and difficulty focusing. Low estrogen levels also affect dopamine levels, a neurotransmitter linked to motivation, pleasure, and learning. The combination of low serotonin and dopamine levels makes your mood go haywire. It also <a href='https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/321064' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>increases norepinephrine</a> (an excitatory chemical messenger) levels, which causes emotional imbalances. Similarly, <a href='https://www.acs.org/content/acs/en/molecule-of-the-week/archive/a/allopregnanolone.html' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>progesterone helps make the chemical called allopregnanolone</a>, a natural anti-depressant. However, progesterone plummets when periods are approaching; allopregnanolone's levels take a hit and cause premenstrual symptoms like menstrual depression, anxiety, heaviness in the chest, and other types of mood disturbances. What Are The Common Mental Health Issues During Periods?<a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/pms-home-remedies-for-natural-relief'>Premenstrual Syndrome</a> and Premenstrual Dysphoric Disorder (PMDD) are the two most common period-related mental health conditions.PMS occurs a week or two before the period and causes mood changes and physical symptoms such as bloating, sore nipples, back pain, etc. Pre-existing mental illnesses like depression, general anxiety disorder, and obsessive-compulsive disorder may worsen because of PMS.PMDD, on the other hand, is a severe form of PMS. The emotional and mental symptoms disrupt daily life and make productivity go for a toss. Therefore, professional help is necessary to manage PMDD symptoms. What Are Some Tips To Cope With Menstrual Depression?A few lifestyle changes and mental health therapy or medications (or both, depending on the severity of the problem) can help alleviate menses-related emotional and mental symptoms. The following tips should help: <ul> <li>Use a mood-tracking app to monitor mood fluctuations during PMS and menstruation. </li><li>Exercise daily for at least 30 minutes.</li><li>Limit the consumption of foods high in salt, sugar, fat, and refined carbs. Instead, go for leafy greens, fresh fruits, sources of lean protein, and complex carbs to manage cravings.</li><li>Sleep well for 7-9 hours every day. Lack of restful sleep wreaks havoc on your mood. </li><li>Meditate, write a journal, or practice a hobby daily for 15-30 minutes as it helps in enhancing mood.</li> </ul>A tolerable degree of physical and mental discomfort is expected before and during periods. However, take action soon if the symptoms make your day-to-day life difficult. Consult your gynaecologist and psychologist.

Learn why understanding the menstrual cycle and mental health is important for women. With the right knowledge and self-care, you can take the right step at the right time.

Link Between Mental Health and Menstrual Cycle

<div className="post-text mb-20 ">Sexist jokes revolve around mood swings experienced by women before and during periods. However, the feelings of ...</div>

 How Your Mental Health And Menstrual Cycle Are Linked?

Vaginal dryness is a classNameic sign of menopause knocking on the door of your reproductive life. Though it has other causes, <a href='https://www.webmd.com/menopause/guide/premature-menopause-symptoms' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>premature menopause,</a> <a href='https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/21608-perimenopause'target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>perimenopause,</a> and menopause are the primary reasons for the vagina feeling droughty. So, are you experiencing vaginal dryness and looking for ways to manage this condition? Well! You have taken the first right step by clicking on this blog. Now continue reading to understand the problem and know some helpful tips to manage it. What is menopause, and why does it occur?Menopause is when a woman no longer menstruates because of aging-related natural depletion of ovarian oocytes. Missing periods consecutively for a year is the typical characteristic that helps diagnose menopause. It marks the end of fertility permanently and affects women aged between 45-58. The average age of menopause is <a href='https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/menopause/symptoms-causes/syc-20353397' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>51</a> years.</a>What are the symptoms of menopause?Menopause lowers estrogen and other reproductive hormones in the body. Consequently, one or more of the following symptoms occur:<ul> <li>Vaginal dryness</li><li>Thinning of vaginal walls and loss of vaginal elasticity</li><li>Hot flushes or night sweats</li><li>Psychological changes</li><li>Low sex drive</li><li>Urinary incontinence</li><li>Frequent urinary tract infections</li></ul>Vaginal dryness is one of the early symptoms of menopause and may also lead to itchiness, soreness, and pain during sex.What causes menopausal vaginal dryness?The female sex hormone estrogen helps maintain the vagina's lubrication, thickness, and elasticity. However, women's bodies start producing less estrogen when menopause approaches, causing dryness, thinning, and inflammation of the vaginal walls. This condition is also called vaginal atrophy.How long does menopausal dryness last?Vaginal dryness after menopause lasts as long as you do not seek treatment. Yes! It does not get better by itself. In fact, the symptoms of vaginal atrophy may worsen without treatment. It means your vagina may feel dry and itchy all the time, not just during sexual intercourse.How do you fix vaginal dryness after menopause?Treating vaginal dryness helps <a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/sex-is-key-element-of-intimacy'>improve your sex life</a> and the overall quality of life. Here are a few vaginal dryness treatment options that doctors recommend.<ul> <li>Vaginal lubricants: Lubricants supplement the vagina's natural moisture and help alleviate pain during sexual penetration. Apply a vaginal lubricant to your clitoris and vaginal walls just before sex. You may choose among water-based, oil-based, and silicone-based lubricants. </li><li>Vaginal moisturizers: They help keep the vagina moist all day. Unlike lubricants, these can be applied at any time of the day. Vaginal moisturizers are available as creams, suppositories, and gels. You may also use natural oils, such as coconut oil or Vitamin E oil to moisturize the vagina.</li><li>Topical low-dose estrogen products: These include vaginal rings, creams, and hormonal suppositories. They help revive vaginal tissues and promote natural lubrication after menopause. Your doctor may prescribe these even if you use systemic hormone patches or therapy pills.</li><li>Oral medications: Your doctor may prescribe <a href='https://www.menopause.org.au/hp/information-sheets/serms-their-role-in-menopause-management' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERM)</a> in the form of tablets. Note: Vaginal estrogen therapy and SERMs are not prescribed if you have had<a href='https://www.ginger-u.com/blog/five-signs-you-might-have-endometriosis'> endometriosis</a> or breast cancer (or are genetically susceptible to it). </li><li>Masturbation or regular sexual activity: Partnered sex or vaginal stimulation, with or without a partner, promotes blood flow to the vagina, strengthens vaginal tissues, and improves sex drive in women after menopause.</li> </ul>Vaginal dryness because of <a href='https://www.healthline.com/health/menopause/causes-early' target='_blank' rel='nofollow'>early menopause,</a> post-menopause, or any other reason may interfere with your daily life. However, several effective treatment options are available to manage this condition and enjoy a healthy sexual life. Contact your gynecologist at the earliest if you are experiencing vaginal dryness and other signs of menopause.

Changes in hormonal production cause vaginal dryness after menopause. Learn about menopause symptoms and remedies that can help to fix dryness.

Learn About Vaginal Dryness Post Menopause

<div className="post-text mb-20 ">Vaginal dryness is a classNameic sign of menopause knocking on the door of your reproductive life ...</div>