Ladies First

The stages of puberty are normally experienced in girls at an earlier age than boys. Around the age of 10 to 13, small changes begin to occur. Breast development normally begins at this time as well as the beginning of menstrual cycles and pubic hair begins to grow. Boys typically begin displaying the telltale signs of puberty such as a deeper voice, facial hair and stronger muscles between the ages of 11 and 15.

Premature Puberty

A small percentage of pre-teens begin enter the beginning stages of puberty prematurely. In some cases, this is caused by the pituitary gland producing hormones at a younger age and typically does not cause any problem. An even smaller percentage who enter premature puberty do so as a result of the hormones triggering the reaction. In this case, the brain and pituitary gland are playing no part in the pubescent signs that are manifesting.

Late Bloomers

Some teens experience the opposite problem; they don't begin to show any signs of puberty until they are in their mid to late teens, and this can be embarrassing. In most cases, the transformation eventually progresses normally and the teen will transition appropriately when the body feels the time is right. However, there are cases where an underlying cause is the root of the delay. For example, inflammatory bowel disease and chronic renal failure are known to hinder puberty. Certain eating disorder such as anorexia can also disrupt puberty.

Confusing Emotions

While many associate puberty simply with external manifestations, it is important to understand that there is a large chemical change occurring within the body. As a result, it is normal for someone going through puberty to experience emotions they cannot understand as hormones naturally have this effect.

Puberty: Nothing to be Scared Of

Change is scary for everyone, and those approaching puberty are no different. The changes that are undergone can be uncomfortable, embarrassing and simply no fun. However, when the process is over, the result is a fully mature adult ready to begin the more cultivated part of their life, making all of the puberty stages worth it.

As men get older, the number of health problems they can encounter increases. If a man doesn’t get regular checkups, this could spell trouble for his wellbeing. Routine prostate exams, cholesterol checks, blood pressure readings, eye exams and dental exams are all keys to maintaining good health as a man ages. And, of course, eating well and maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle are extremely important as well. By following these guidelines, a man can increase his chances of living a long, healthy life, and improve his physical condition to increase his quality of life.

Men who are looking to achieve or maintain a healthy body and mind may want to consider subscribing to a magazine that will help them stay on track. Men’s Health magazine may be a good choice for the average man who wants to live healthy. The magazine covers all aspects of health for men, including nutrition and fitness, sexuality and lifestyle. On the Men's Health website, users can participate in men's health forums to experience a sense of community and weigh in on hot topics.

Supporters of men's health magizine say that the magazine helps men to overcome resistance to the topic of health. Instead of focusing on pretty women or fashion, like many other men’s magazines, the focus is on health in all aspects of life. This does not just include nutrition and working out, but also takes into account relationships, happiness and sexuality, among other topics.

The Men's Health mag does have its critics, however, For example, the Men's Health workout articles are said to promote over-exercising and under-eating. While the magazine often features attractive, in-shape men, supporters say that it’s to promote healthy physiques, not unattainable ones.

Physical Changes

During puberty, a boy's voice will change. Many times, a boy's voice will “break”, another way to say it gets deeper. For some boys, it happens very quickly, even overnight. But for others, the change can take some time, and their voice may go up and down in pitch uncontrollably. This can cause embarrassment for many boys. Usually, however, this goes away quickly.

With puberty and boys, the sweat glands begin to develop, and more sweat is produced, even when the boy is not as active. The use of under-arm deodorant is one way to help with body odor, as is regular bathing and changing clothes frequently.

Acne, or pimples, is another sign of puberty and boys. Acne can happen to anyone, even those who wash their face regularly. These spots are caused by hormones, and often cannot be controlled. Washing with warm water and an antiseptic soap can help. A doctor can give a boy and their parents more advice if the acne gets to be unmanageable on their own.

During puberty in boys, hair will start growing on the face, chest, underarms, and pubic area. The penis and testicles will also start to grow. It's normal for one testicle to grow faster than the other, and to hang lower, as well. Boys will also start to get erections, and may have wet dreams. Wet dreams are caused by ejaculation of sperm during their sleep, and is not something that can be controlled.

Emotional Changes

During puberty, boys will also likely go through a lot of emotional changes. Feelings in boys can change very quickly, and mood swings are likely. Boys may be very happy one minute, and crying the next. Many boys also experience increased feelings of anger. Increased hormones in the body contribute to emotional changes and mood swings, and are quite common. With boys, the increase in testosterone will have an affect on their anger. Boys may start feeling very sensitive, and react to common questions and statements with out-of-place sadness or anger.

Puberty is a tough time for boys, and parents need to understand the changes that are occurring in their children. Talk to your family doctor for more information on puberty and boys.

What is Male Menopause?

Andropause, another word for male menopause, is a reduction in the male hormone known as testosterone. A man’s testosterone level will reach its peak during his earlier adulthood. The testosterone level begins to decrease over the years. Not like in women, were hormone levels can disappear completely, the decline in men is a slow process because testes will not run out of the elements needed to produce testosterone. As a result of this some doctors will describe this condition as androgen testosterone which decreases during male aging. Some diseases such as type 2 diabetes may also have an effect on testosterone decline.

Symptoms of Male Menopause

As a result of the decline in their testosterone level, a significant amount of men have symptoms such as weakness, depression, fatigue and mood changes. There may be a rise in fat mass, and a reduced amount of muscle mass and strength. Impaired mobility and lack of endurance may also occur. Men who have a significant problem with testosterone loss or known as hypogonadism have a continuing decrease in muscle mass, a lack of energy and a very low sense of self- worth. A declining sex drive and weight gain around the abdomen may also come from having low testosterone.

Male Menopause Treatment

Once men consult a physician about these conditions, a physical should be conducted. A variety of tests should occur to determine if other medical problems may be the reasons for the conditions. Blood tests should be ordered to determine testosterone level. Treatment can consist of intramascular shots, a testosterone patch that is placed on the body or the scrotum. A testosterone gel, a material known as mucoadhesive that is placed on the gums, oral tablets or a testosterone stick that is applied under the under arms. A physician may also recommend a few life style changes to assist with symptoms like a diet, exercise regimen or medications for depression. These treatments have been known to add a boost to the libido, help to sustain an erection, increase bone mineral density, strengthen the dominant muscles, assist with lean body mass, reduce fat mass and help to show an improvement in mood swings and increase energy.

Some women might also want to subscribe to one of the many magazines that cater to female health. A good women's health mag, in fact, will provide readers with tips and guidelines that can be followed for a healthy existence. If women have long been trying to lose weight, they can rely on trusted magazine articles for ideas on recipes and meal planning. Individuals who are trying to get rid of those extra pregnancy pounds will have to incorporate large amounts of fruits and vegetables into their diets. Many of the best magazines contain articles that have been written by licensed health care professionals.

Some articles may also talk about women's health workout options. By performing some cardiovascular activity a couple of days per week, people can train their hearts to pump blood throughout the body more efficiently. In some cases, women who have recently given birth may form an exercise group in the local neighborhood. They can go walking and jogging together. They can also rely on each other for weight-loss motivation. Once the pounds begin to melt away, they can work hard to keep the weight off for the foreseeable future.

Females should not neglect many of the excellent online message boards. In these women's health forums, participants can chat with each other about particular health issues they are having. Women who are currently going through menopause, for example, will be very pleased to discuss their situations with others in similar situations. They might even receive some good tips on how they can deal with the anxiety that so often accompanies this phase of life. Once they have made it through menopause, they will begin to see that they can use their golden years to try things new things with their husbands.

Understand the Potential Consequences

When it comes to sex, it is important to understand that everyone is susceptible to disease, and it only takes one time with an infected partner to pick up a potentially life-threatening disease.

Many have become infected due to misconceptions they have come to believe. For example, thousands of people have acquired STD's because they believe that oral and anal sex are exceptions when either way is equally risky.

It should also be understood that condoms and other contraceptives do not provide 100 percent protection against an STD. Those who are sexually active should have regular STD tests performed to know for sure if they have become infected, both for their own treatment as well as for their partner.

STD Symptoms

The most difficult aspect when it comes to diagnosing STD's is that there often are no symptoms. Many people find out they are infected when they go in for an annual examination. During the time of their ignorance, they have likely been infecting other people. While regular STD tests should be scheduled, there are some symptoms that are indicative of a problem and immediate medical attention should follow.

Itching and burning is not unusual when the pubic area is shaven, but it can also be a sure sign of a problem. If burning or itching persists more than 24 hours after the wax or shave, an appointment should be scheduled. Furthermore, painful urination, foul-smelling vaginal discharge and lower abdominal pain should all be checked out.

Free STD Tests Available

In a weakened economy, many people try to save money at any chance they get, and getting an STD test is not likely to make their to-do list anytime soon. What they fail to realize is that there is likely an STD clinic in their community that will administer free testing to reduce the spread of further infection.

When it comes to STD's, there are no excuses to remain ignorant. By scheduling an appointment with an STD clinic today, sexually active individuals take the first step in ensuring they are STD free.

Sexual health clinics offer treatment, counseling and support for anyone who needs help. Most are staffed by experienced professionals who are sensitive to the needs and concerns of patients, and they provide a safe and comfortable environment. Sexual health centres address a wide range of concerns that include testing and treatment for common sexually transmitted diseases. They are also a great place to go to receive information about fertility issues, unwanted pregnancies and what to do to improve sexual performance.

Sexual health in men can include anything from dealing with testicular cancer to erectile dysfunction. There are many treatment options that address these and other concerns, and solutions are available for anyone who wishes to ask for help. Sexual health for women include issues that cover pregnancy, the impact of sexually transmitted diseases or sex after menopause.

The most important role that sexual health clinics play is their accessibility. Most communities have at least one that is open for all who need help. Anyone can get answers to common questions, receive testing for various sexually transmitted diseases and learn about their options when it comes to dealing with a host of issues related to sexual health and well-being.

People should never be afraid to ask for help or to admit they have a problem. Issues that are related to sex are not always easy to talk about. Sexual health clinics make it easy to start a conversation that can lead to solutions that can provide peace of mind. Don't let issues that are related to health sexual interfere with living out a normal and happy life, and learn about how sexual health clinics in your area can help.

Some sexual health centres offer free and anonymous testing as well as counseling, and others charge a nominal fee for their services. Don't let your fear, sense of shame or embarrassment get in the way of doing the right thing, and take advantage of these resources today.

Birth control, or contraception, refers to any method that prevents pregnancy. There are several forms of birth control, each with their own advantages and disadvantages. Popular forms of birth control include barrier contraception, such as condoms, and hormonal contraception, such as birth control pills. Condoms can be purchased by anyone at a drug store or obtained from a family planning organization, while hormonal birth control can only be obtained through a doctor or an organization with special privileges, such as a family clinic.

How does birth control work?

Birth control works by preventing a woman’s egg from becoming fertilized by a man’s sperm. For barrier methods, this is achieved by preventing sperm from entering a woman’s body. For hormonal methods, this is achieved by preventing ovulation. During ovulation, an egg is released from a woman’s ovary. Without ovulation, there is no egg to be fertilized. Hormonal birth control also thickens the mucus of the cervix, which makes it more difficult for sperm to get to any egg that may have been released. While, it is important to take birth control every day, if a woman has one day of missed birth control, ovulation is usually still prevented.

What kinds of hormonal birth control are there?

There are several kinds of hormonal birth control, but all work by releasing hormones into the body. The birth control pill is taken daily. An injection every three months can also prevent pregnancy effectively. There is also a birth control patch and a vaginal ring that only need to be switched every few months. These options allow women to choose what is best for their routine and bodies.

How can I get birth control?

Birth control can be obtained through your normal doctor or nurse practitioner. Family planning clinics in your neighborhood may also offer reduced-cost birth control. If you need a special kind of birth control or are having problems and side effects, a gynecologist can best address your concerns.

What are birth control side effects?

Because hormones are being introduced to your body, birth control can have side effects such as change in mood, weight gain, and spotting while on birth control.

Is birth control effective?

Hormonal birth control, when taken as directed, is between 96% and 99% effective at preventing pregnancy. Remember, the birth control pill and other hormonal contraceptives do not protect against sexually transmitted diseases.

A Time of Firsts

The birth of a child brings excitement from friends and family, and there will likely be a large number of gifts full of birth stone colors, elaborate wrapping and good wishes. Furthermore, parents must prepare if they wish to create a birth video to commemorate the event as well as prepare the birth announcement for the newspaper.

Not Your Typical Birthday Party

A child's first birthday party is far different than any that will follow. Aside from the obvious facts that they have no friends to invite over for a party and are much too young to blow out candles on a birthday cake they cannot eat, there are many things that the parents need to do in order to get their child started as a citizen. With a rising birth rate, more new parents are introduced every day, and it can be easy for them to become lost in the whirlwind that is bringing a new child into the world. From the confusing birth chart to birth records and other documentation that must be completed, it is important to outline the key tasks that must be completed.

Birth Certificate

One of the first orders of business is to fill out the necessary forms to receive a birth certificate. The nurse or midwife assisting with the birth will provide the parents with a certificate of live birth that contains the baby's name as well as the parents' names and identifying information.

If the hospital does not provide a birth certificate order form, one they can be obtained from Vital Statistics. Hospitals often provide a temporary certificate to be used until the official one is obtained; however, it is important to note that many organizations will not acknowledge this document.

Social Security Card

A child will also need a social security card to function in society, and this is another order of business on a child's first birthday. Paperwork is normally provided by the hospital staff or midwife to guide parents through the process of setting up this important number.

The Guttmacher Institute has published many abortion facts, including information about the difficulty in obtaining an abortion. According to the institute, 1,793 abortion providers exist in the United States. These clinics are concentrated in 13 percent of U.S. counties, leaving 87 percent of counties without an abortion clinic. Many women report obtaining abortions later than preferred due to difficulty in finding a provider, making an appointment and obtaining funds to pay for their abortion.

Abortions can be performed surgically or medically. Medical abortions are most common during the first trimester and don’t require anesthesia. Either pills or shots are used to administer the medication, and several visits to a healthcare provider are required to ensure that the pregnancy was terminated.

Surgical abortions require anesthesia and are often more controversial in the United States. This type of abortion includes vacuuming, D&C, D&E and partial birth abortions. Vaccuum-based abortions are performed early in the pregnancy and involve the use of manual or electric pumps to remove the fetus from the uterus.

Dilation and curettage (D&C) abortions, consist of opening, or dilating, the cervix and scraping the uterus with a curette to remove any fetal matter. D&Cs are rarely used for induced abortions, but are used by some providers to manage spontaneous abortions, also known as miscarriages.

Dilation and evacuation, or D&E, abortions are similar to D&Cs, but the fetus is removed primarily with a vacuum. Partial birth abortions, or intact dilation and extraction, involves dilating the cervix, removing the fetus’s body, except the head, suctioning the brain matter from the fetus’s head, then removing the skull. This procedure is banned in the United States.

Abortion cost varies depending on the method and clinic chosen and where the mother is in her pregnancy. Medical abortions performed in the first weeks of pregnancy may cost a few hundred dollars. Some clinics for abortion offer sliding-scale payments for low-income women to make abortions affordable for everyone who needs them. A late-term surgical abortion can require a surgeon, anesthesiologist and several nurses, and may cost over $10,000. Travel expenses may add even more to the cost of a third-trimester abortion, because many states do not have late-term abortion providers.