Blaine561's Social and Health Commentary

Most women never satisfy with their shape and size even though some of them have a perfect body already. Our demand for beauty never ends. If you are thinking along the lines of having cosmetic surgery for your problem, remember that some size and shape differences are normal and while breast implants will increase the size, they won’t correct basic shape and form defects. It is possible to have other forms of corrective surgery for that.

The breast implant operation is carried out under general anesthetic and involves the insertion of the implant by means of a small incision under the breast, the armpit or even the belly-button area. The implant is made of silicone that is filled with a saline solution. The shape is based on the individual needs of the patient.

Gynecomastia can be corrected by cosmetic surgery. This condition is affecting 40/60 percent of men in the USA, where fatty deposits due usually to an inherited factor cause enlarged breasts. This is called Liposculpture surgery and is a fairly recent development that will restore a thinner, more masculine contour to the chest.

It is a must that the patient-after-surgery should wear a snug-fitting garment for several weeks. This will minimize bruising and swelling and help the skin to shrink more quickly. Return to work varies depending on the job. Office workers can return sooner than those doing more physically challenging work.

Even though tummy tucks might sound simple and easy, any operation that requires a general anesthetic should be considered seriously. For this reason, never be afraid to ask about your surgeon’s qualifications and experience.

Mostly, a skilled professional trained in this field, excises folds of loose skin and fat, having previously marked the areas to be cut out. Slack muscles are then tightened before the operation is complete. The incision is usually made along the bikini line; the skin is pulled down and afterwards secured with several rows of sutures to minimize scarring. Fat may be harvested at the same time and frozen for use in a future Lipo-suction operation. This possibility should be discussed with the surgeon beforehand.

There are other operations involving a removal of sagging skin, which can be carried out on the thighs, upper arms and neck area. Moreover, face-lifts can be used to remove wrinkles and lift sagging areas and scarring is usually minimal, but if indulged in too often, the whole face can become a ghastly caricature of what Mother Nature intended.

Although it usually occurs in women over 35 years of age, breast cancer knows no age, race, social, or lifestyle barriers. It can strike any woman at any time, regardless whether or not she has ever smoked, taken an alcoholic beverage, or ever taken birth control.

Although certain factors can increase a woman’s risk of getting breast cancer, every woman is at risk. Even women who have never experienced a day of illness in their entire lives can fall victim.

Breast Cancer – No Longer a Taboo Subject

Breast cancer is no longer a taboo topic of conversation. As breast cancer awareness increases so do a woman’s ability to take responsibility by taking preventive measures. Routine self-examinations and mammography screenings go a long way in detecting breast cancer while still in the early stages. Early detection greatly minimizes the seriousness of cancer if it is detected, and increases a woman’s chance for survival.

Yet, many women remain reluctant to take the initiative and schedule for a mammography screening. One reason is due of the fear of the unknown. Women who have never had one don’t know what to expect.

This article was written with these women in mind. It outlines what to expect during a mammogram, and tells how to prepare for one. Many women who have been reluctant to schedule for a mammography screening will be pleasantly surprised to learn that the procedure itself is not nearly as intimidating as imagined.

The Mammography Screening

Let’s begin with how to prepare for a mammogram. When scheduling for a mammogram, opt for a time when your breasts are least likely to be tender. This is usually the week following menstruation. Breasts are most apt to be sensitive just before and during your menstrual cycle.

Once you have secured an appointment, you will be instructed to avoid the use of deodorants, powders, lotions, creams or perfumes under your arms or around your breasts on the day of your mammogram. This is because metallic particles contained in powders, deodorants, and perfumes could be visible on the mammogram, making results confusing.

The Day of the Mammography

The day of your test you might want to avoid wearing jewelry, since you will be asked to remove jewelry for the test. You might also want to wear a two-piece outfit, since you will have to remove everything from the waist up.

Aspirin or another over the counter pain reliever such as Tylenol or ibuprofen can be taken about an hour before the mammogram to help ease any discomfort experienced during testing.

Once you arrive for your test, you will be given an examination gown. You will be asked to remove jewelry, if you are wearing any and all clothing from the waist up.

What Happens During the Mammography Screening?

During the procedure you will stand in front of an X-ray machine, specifically designed for mammography purposes. A technician will place one of your breasts on a platform that holds the X-ray film. The platform will be adjusted to your height; the technician will adjust your posture and position your body for an unobstructed view of your breast.

It is necessary that your breast be carefully pressed against the platform by use of a clear plastic plate used to spread out breast tissue. This is essential so that the X-rays can penetrate the tissue. You may find this uncomfortable, or even a little painful. If discomfort is too great, tell the technician.

During X-ray exposure, you will be asked to stand still and hold your breath. Try to relax. Exposure time will be brief. The same process will be repeated for your other breast.

After the Mammogram

After both breasts have been X-rayed, you may be asked to wait until the technician checks the quality of the images. If the views are not adequate, you may have to be x-rayed. If the images are clear, you will be able to dress, and go about your day.

The entire procedure usually takes less than a half hour. A radiologist will study the x-rays. He will be looking for evidence of cancerous or non-cancerous conditions. After he examines the images, the radiologist will send your doctor a written report with the results of the tests.

Possible findings include things such as calcium deposits, most of which are benign, and masses of lumps. He will also look for distorted tissues, and areas of denseness that appear in only one breast. If the radiologist notes any areas of concern in his report, further tests will be recommended, just to be on the safe side. Roughly 5 to 15 percent of mammogram testing is followed by further testing.

Important Reminders

While mammography is a very good way to help determine whether or not cancer is present, it isn’t fool proof. Very small cancers or cancers located in a difficult to see area might not show up on the mammogram.

A mammography also is not without potential risks. During the mammogram screening you will be briefly exposed to low-dose radiation. Even so, the benefits of mammography far outweigh possible risks, especially for women over age 40.

Having a mammogram might not be top on your list of things you enjoy doing, but it nevertheless increases a woman’s chance at longevity. Mammogram screening is an effective tool that could prove life saving. That is because early detection remains a woman’s best defense in the fight against her number one enemy; breast cancer.

Every year the third Friday in October is National Mammography Day. For more information about breast cancer, visit the quick content pages at Writers Write Now web site.

If you want to get rid of unwanted hair, there are all kinds of techniques to help you to do so — from waxes to razor blades and from lasers to electrolysis. But if you want to get rid of it for good, the preferred method nowadays is laser treatment.

Why is laser treatment preferred?

It’s preferred because this method has very low risks and can’t damage your skin unless performed by an unskilled quack. Electrolysis also works, but requires too much time because each and every individual hair is removed, one at a time. And that often costs a lot more than laser treatment.

How does laser hair removal work?

Laser hair removal works through a selective process called Photothermolysis. It sends a beam of laser light right down to the hair follicles and the light’s focussed power is used to destroy the roots. It is a selective treatment because it will only disable the hair roots, and not affect the surrounding skin. It uses light and heat to get rid of hair, which is actually the meaning of the name ‘photothermolysis’.

What kind of person is the best candidate for laser hair removal?

Because this method works by seeking out melanin, which is the pigment that gives color to our hair and skin, laser hair removal treatment is best suited for people who have dark hair and light skin. Unfortunately, laser treatment cannot be used very successfully on tanned skin because there it can cause marks similar to sunburns. It is usually advised that you wait until the tan is gone before you use laser hair removal treatment. Also, persons that have grey hair or are naturally blonde cannot use this technique as yet, because the melanin in their follicles is not so easy to target.

Does it hurt?

Laser hair removal will not hurt, but can sometimes create feelings of discomfort, and in some cases the after-effects are similar to sunburn. To prevent this, laser hair removal clinics will use ice-packs, cooling gels or sprays to help relieve the discomfort and you are usually advised to use sun block cream for a week or two after the treatment. Also, you can ask for a ‘test’ before beginning the treatment, and clinics often provide spot tests so the customers can see what the treatment will be like. Try one of these to be sure that your skin will not have some kind of allergic reaction to it.

How much will it cost?

The price for laser treatment varies according to the size of the area that you want treated, and the number of sessions. Laser hair removal centers often recommend 4 or 5 sessions, but the number will vary according to your skin type, hair color and the target area of the body. The fee may seem large initially, but you’ll probably come to realize that it’s a sum worth paying, because you’ll be saving yourself a lifetime of investment in time, money and care.

Mothers-to-be have many questions about pregnancy nutrition and exercise. The tips and advice below will help you get started on a healthy pregnancy.

A diet containing the essential nutrients and vitamins are vital to the development of both mother and child. Vitamins are imperative to the health of a developing baby and the well being of the mother. Choosing foods that are rich in vitamins and other nutrients are a critical part of a healthy pregnancy nutrition plan and supplemental vitamins are necessary as well.

Follow a well-planned pregnancy diet to help avoid complications such as morning sickness, fatigue, anemia, and constipation. Your healthy diet must continue after pregnancy if you plan to breastfeed your baby.

Pregnancy food recommendations

* Your pregnancy diet should include plenty of complex and unrefined carbohydrates as they contain important B vitamins, trace minerals, and fiber that are essential to a fit, healthy pregnancy.

* Appropriate quantities of yellow and green leafy vegetables are vital for the growth of the baby and the health of the mother.

* Dairy products contain calcium that will assist in the developing baby’s teeth and bones. If your diet is lacking calcium your body will draw calcium from your bones to meet it’s increased need.

* Avoid excessive amounts of fat must be avoided during pregnancy, as it will only serve to add excess pounds, which will be hard to lose after the birth of your baby.

* Vitamin C in generous amounts is crucial to a healthy pregnancy, bone growth, and various metabolic processes. Including berries, citrus fruits, raw broccoli and cabbage can help provide you with the Vitamin C that you need.

Ideally, your pregnancy diet should include 3-4 servings of protein and meat, 2-4 servings of fruit, 6-11 servings of grains, 4-6 servings of dairy products, and 6-8 glasses of water, milk, and juice. A pregnant mother must follow a healthy diet that will benefit the developing baby but that will also maintain her general health as well.

Exercise recommendations during pregnancy

Exercise during pregnancy will promote strength, muscle tone, and endurance. Regular activity during your pregnancy will help alleviate swelling, fatigue, and backache. If you expect to remain fit during your pregnancy you will need to work your heart and major muscle groups. The type of exercise you do during your pregnancy will depend on your fitness level prior to pregnancy. Walking, pregnancy yoga videos, and swimming are excellent pregnancy exercises combined with stretching and other low-impact activities.

Exercises that involve a risk of falling or injury should be avoided such as bicycling, racket sports, horseback riding, and skiing. You will need to alter your exercise routine from trimester to trimester to accommodate your growing body. Avoiding over-exertion is necessary to avoid complications such as faintness, dizziness, vaginal bleeding, and premature contractions. Also, make sure you drink plenty of water before, during, and after exercising to reduce the risk of dehydration, which can raise your body temperature and cause harm to yourself and/or your baby.

A regular exercise program is beneficial to both mother and child, but check with your health care provider to make sure you have no conditions or risks that will prevent you from participating in a regular exercise routine or could cause potential harm to yourself or your child.

For many people, the uncomfortable dog days of summer last for a few short months, but for menopausal women with symptoms like hot flashes and night sweats, it can feel like summer all year long.

Menopause is a natural stage in a woman’s aging process when her ovaries stop producing estrogens. It can occur naturally or may be induced by surgery, chemotherapy or radiation. Since estrogens are largely responsible for developing and maintaining the female reproductive system, reduced levels can cause uncomfortable symptoms called vasomotor symptoms (hot flashes and night sweats).

“I knew one day I would go through ‘the change,’ but I didn’t think the symptoms would be so dramatic. I never knew when a hot flash was going to hit me. I had hot flashes all day at work and night sweats woke me up several times during the night. I knew I needed help and I talked to my doctor about my options,” said Janet Sussman, real estate agent and mother of three from New Albany, Ohio.

Although the majority of women experience “natural” or spontaneous menopause, some women may experience “induced” menopause due to medical interventions such as hysterectomy, chemotherapy or radiation. A hysterectomy is the surgical removal of the uterus and sometimes cervix. If both ovaries are removed along with the uterus (bilateral oophorectomy surgery), a woman will experience menopause, regardless of her age.

Menopause caused by hysterectomy can cause the same symptoms as natural menopause, including night sweats and hot flashes. It is believed that the faster a woman goes through the transition from regular menstrual periods to no periods, the more significant her hot flashes will be. Some women experience severe hot flashes that interfere with their ability to function.

Now there is good news for the 52 million women approaching menopause. A new FDA-approved oral estrogen therapy called ENJUVIA™ (synthetic conjugated estrogens, B) is now available for the treatment of moderate-to-severe vasomotor symptoms. It is synthesized from plants and uses a unique delivery system that allows for the slow release of estrogens into the bloodstream over several hours.

The FDA and professional organizations including the North American Menopause Society recommend using hormone therapies at the lowest dose, for the shortest time period, if the benefits outweigh the risks, which include myocardial infarction, stroke, invasive breast cancer, pulmonary emboli and deep vein thrombosis.

David Portman, M.D., founder of the Columbus Center for Women’s Health Research, explains, “Given that millions of women will be entering menopause every year and with one-third of those women experiencing a hysterectomy by age 60, there is a stronger need than ever for advanced technology to provide effective relief from vasomotor symptoms at lower doses.”

Important Information:

Important health information you should know when taking estrogens like ENJUVIA:

Estrogens increase the risk for cancer of the uterus (womb). If you experience persistent or recurring vaginal bleeding while taking estrogens, let your doctor know right away, as this could be a warning sign for cancer. Your doctor should check for the cause of any unusual vaginal bleeding after menopause.

Estrogens (alone or in combination with progestins) should not be used to prevent heart disease, heart attacks, strokes or dementia.

Estrogens (alone or in combination with progestins) may increase the risk of heart attack, stroke, breast cancer and blood clots. Estrogens with progestins may increase your risk of dementia. Because of these risks, estrogens should be used at the lowest dose possible for the shortest time possible. You and your doctor should talk regularly to determine whether you still need treatment with ENJUVIA.

What are the common side effects with ENJUVIA?

You may experience headache, breast pain, irregular vaginal bleeding or spotting, stomach/ abdominal cramps and bloating, nausea and vomiting, or hair loss.

Who should not use ENJUVIA?

Do not use ENJUVIA if you:

• may be pregnant

• have unusual vaginal bleeding

• have a history of certain cancers, blood clots or liver problems

• have had a stroke or heart attack in the past year

• are allergic to ENJUVIA or any of its ingredients.

Laser Hair Removal is one of the newest technologies for eliminating that unwanted body hair. It is quick, easy and relatively painless. So, what’s it going to cost? Well, how laser hair removal is priced depends on a couple of factors:

1. Geographic Location. Of course, there are always going to be pricing variations due to geographic location. That’s the case with just about any product or service. You will find that laser hair removal cost differ from state to state as well as from country to country.

2. Number of laser hair removal treatment sessions. This means, the number of laser hair removal treatments you are going to need to complete your desired hairless effect. The total number of laser hair removal treatment sessions can be affected by your hair color, your skin pigmentation (light or dark) and the thickness of your hair.

Light skin makes laser hair removal easier to perform. Fewer treatments are required, and better, faster results are obtained. People with darker skin can be treated, but results are slower, more sessions are required, and greater expertise is required on the part of the laser center.

Some parts of the body are more difficult than others to remove hair. Each person varies somewhat in her or his hair regeneration speed as well.

Prior to your first laser hair removal treatment – in fact, prior to your deciding to undergo laser hair removal at all – you’ll meet with the dermatologist or medical specialist responsible for the laser hair removal. Generally, the more sessions you require, the more it is going to cost you.

3. Size of the area treated. Treatment cost varies with the size of the area treated. Large areas, such as the entire back, or the entire legs, cost considerably more than this. Small areas, such as the upper lip, can be less.

4. Type of laser hair removal equipment used. There are different types of laser hair removal equipment in the market. Also, do not confuse laser hair removal with intense pulsed light treatments. The latter can also produce effective hair removal. Although the devices used are not lasers, they are “laser equivalents”. Both utilize the same principle of selective photothermolysis to achieve hair removal. Intense pulsed light devices are in fact more difficult to adjust than lasers and require great expertise for their proper use. Individual consultation with the laser center is necessary to obtain exact pricing.

5. Pricing packaging. Not only does the laser hair removal cost vary by area and by physician, but it can also vary in its pricing structure. Some, for example, bundle the laser hair removal treatment with other cosmetic procedures. For instance, some may include the application of a hair retardation product to the treatment area to speed up desired results. Some require you to pay a total package fee and yet others may charge you for each visit separately. Experienced laser centers, which have developed expertise in laser hair removal, costs an average of about $500 per treatment session. They usually recommend a basic four treatment sessions to start off with.

As treatment costs can get really expensive, you should ensure that you can well budget for it. However, please be advised to go to an established medical center with good reputation. You may pay more but it may be worth the quality of service and care that you receive.

As I was searching for more information on varicose veins’ cure, I sat on the swivel chair in front of the PC in a relaxed but poised position: upright with my right leg over my left leg. What I thought of as a comfortable sitting position could have led me to get more of the unwanted varicose veins. The topmost DON’T in preventing and relieving varicose veins was: DON’T cross your legs when sitting. It was like touching a hot plate; I immediately uncrossed my legs and leaned forward to read more.

Other than not crossing the legs, here are some great preventive measures that you ought to know so as not to have those gory spider veins marring those pretty legs:

• Regular exercise helps in the continuous flow of the blood. It is understandable that time is quite a problem. Choose an exercise activity that is not so time consuming, like walking a good distance will be great.

• Watch your weight, a very heavy body gives burden to the legs that hold it upright.

• If your job requires standing for a long period of time, shift your weight from one foot to the other time and again. If it is possible, always sit on breaks and relax tired feet.

• Elastic stockings can best support legs.

• See to it that your clothes, even you underwear are comfortable and not too tight especially on the waist, groin and leg areas.

• High-fiber foods can help prevent constipation that could also contribute to varicose veins. Eat as much fiber-filled foods as possible.

• Salt can be a factor in swelling of the body. Reduce your salt intake.

• Find time to exercise your legs even when sitting. It can help in the circulation of blood. A simple leg stretching and feet and ankle rotation can relieve soreness and can revive those veins.

• Leg elevation at the end of the day is highly recommended. Prop your feet on a chair or on the wall at home when you watch TV or a few minutes before you go to sleep.

• Long travels constrict and numb your legs and feet. If you can, get up and move about in your vehicle (for travels on buses, trains and airplanes) or pull over every 30 minutes when traveling in a car to relax and stretch your legs.

• Choose an aisle seat or the one nearest an exit door when attending long conferences and meetings. This way, you can easily go out and stretch every fifteen to thirty minutes to avoid cramps.

Researchers show that women are not the only victims of varicose veins. In fact, recent studies show that a large percentage of men also get varicose veins. Varicose veins are brought about by a lot of things from being overweight to genetics to aging. Most factors that contribute to acquiring varicose veins are the work (especially if it includes long periods of standing up), pregnancy, stomach disorders such as constipation; and then there’s improper posture.

As always, the adage that prevention is better than cure is very true. Although major treatments and operations are not exactly needed in curing varicose veins, the pain could be uncomfortable, not to mention unsightly especially for a woman. There are dermatological ways to remove varicose veins but, if you can help it, prevent it from appearing on your body parts by doing the self-help tips that are stated above.

I’m gonna be real honest here. I don’t generally shop for jewelry online. I know, it’s crazy. However, I’ve learned over the last few years that there are some tremendous jewelry bargains to be found online if you look in the right places. Italian charms are no different. Italian charms seem to be all the rage these days with people trying to buy them, collect them, and show them off to their friends. Let’s take a look at a few items on a checklist to look out for when shopping for an Italian charm.

1) Do they have a bulk discount? If you are buying for a large group of people, you don’t want to ignore the bulk discount. Buying more than one of anything can save you some dollars. Italian charms are no different.

2) Do they offer different styles? This might be good or bad. If a merchant sells one type of Italian charm, you might be entitled to a good discount due to the volume. However, you might not like the style offered. Look for big dealers to find good deals.

3) Are the Italian charms they offer new or used? Used anything can be a good deal. Italian charms are no different. If you are buying used, make sure you are getting quality merchandise.

4) Can these Italian charms be resold? A good resale value is always welcome, no matter what you are buying.

5) Is there a warranty? You might be able to get a warranty on your Italian charm. Look into this.

Finally, just because a site appears at the top of the search engines, it doesn’t mean that that particular site is the #1 site for that product or industry. I have a friend who maintains what I think is the world’s best website for his niche (baby showers), but his site isn’t even listed in Google. In fact, most of his visitors come from people who refer his business to their friends. Finding the right Italian charm vendor is no different than this. Take a firm look at other ways of finding the Italian charm site of your dreams. You won’t be disappointed.

Hirsutism: women with male pattern hair-

Many women develop hair on the chin, on the upper lip and on the abdomen. That looks very unsightly and any woman who has this condition would wish to get rid of it as early as possible. The problem that is known as hirsutism is serious in some women and psychologically affects them. Let us find out more about it.

Hirsutism: causes

In some races this is common condition and not taken seriously. While in most of the races overgrowth of hair in a woman at unwanted places is certainly a problem. This problem happens because of androgens. Androgens are male hormones. Women also have androgens. Sometimes a woman produces more of androgens resulting in overgrowth of hair in the male pattern. Sometimes a woman may be very sensitive to even the common accepted levels of androgens and that may cause hirsutism. Some anabolic steroids cause hirsutism and so do some hormone pills. If you are having any such side effect please consult your doctor.

Hirsutism: Quick facts

If you develop hirsutism immediately after puberty you should talk to your doctor. If hirsutism is accompanied by change in voice, you should consult your doctor. If a changer in menstruation pattern is accompanied by hirsutism, you should consult your doctor.

This article is only for informative purposes. This article is not intended to be a medical advise and it is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Please consult your doctor for your medical concerns. Please follow any tip given in this article only after consulting your doctor. The author is not liable for any outcome or damage resulting from information obtained from this article.

Sunless tanning is the only safe way to achieve the perfect tan you want. They can be used year round or just for a holiday or vacation. You can achieve a beautiful artificial tan at home or visit a salon or spa for a session in a sunless tanning booth. A benefit of self tanning is that it can be done at any time and in any weather.

Sunless Tanning at Home

Some people cringe when they hear self tanning. They are usually thinking about the earliest self tanners, which were notorious for the ugly orange color they produced. Products have improved dramatically over the years. Self tanner products come in a variety of forms including lotion, crème and spray. You can find them in stores or on the internet wherever tanning bed lotions are sold.

Preparing your skin is very important before using a sunless tanning lotion. Shower and exfoliate the skin before using any product. This removes dead skin cells and prepares your skin to accept the tanning product. Good exfoliation results in better absorption, more even color and a tan that lasts longer.

Applying the product evenly is very important. Tinted lotions help you see where you have applied the lotion and help ensure even coverage. Wear plastic gloves during application to help prevent the hands from staining. Apply the product to the rough and dry areas of your body last. This includes the elbows, knees and ankles.

The best lotions contain an active ingredient called DHA. The DHA reacts with your skin cells to change the color. It can take between 45 minutes and 1 hour to see the full effect of the product. The tan will last between five and seven days. To maintain the color, apply the lotion every three to five days.

Sunless Tanning in a Booth

Sunless tanning booths are popping up in day spas, beauty salons, tanning salons and health clubs across the country. As people become aware of the dangers of UV exposure, the popularity of booths increases. A few minutes in the booth, and you can have the color that it would take days in the sun to achieve.

Booth tanning is done in two ways. The first is a shower booth with nozzles on every side that spray your body with the solution. You get into the booth naked with a shower cap on your head and eye protection. The nozzles spray you down with the tanning solution. Bronzers in the spray give you some instant color. The full effect of the tan will be seen in a few hours. In some cases, you will need to rub the solution into your skin. It’s important to blend it evenly for the best color.

The other method used is airbrush. A technician uses a hand held airbrush device to apply the solution. Since the mist is much finer than a spray and a technician is applying it, the color is perfect and even. You just wait about five minutes for the mist to soak in before getting dressed. Wear very loose clothing to the salon, as tight clothing can rub off some of the color.

Most people enter the booth naked for no tan lines. If you are shy being nude with a technician, you can wear a bathing suit. Choose an old bathing suit for the booth. The solution will stain the bathing suit.